Conshy Courier Ask Yourself: What did I do for ME today? A Simple Guide to Self-Care Page 11
Connected By 19428
Page 10
Taste of Conshohocken ~ SCOOPS
FREE Vol 2 No. 5 May 2017
Page 9
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CONTENT NEWS
Conshy Courier Publisher Teresa Parris Info@ConshyCourier.com
4 - 6 Colonial School District 8 West Conshohocken Borough Council Takes on Gerrymandering
BUSINESS
9 Taste of Conshohocken ~ Scoops
HOME & GARDEN 10 Connected by “19428”
Editor Brian Hanna Advertising Director Andrea Wellman Social Media Editor Ciara O’Callaghan Staff Writers Kelly Delaney; Sarah McGlinchy Mailing Address 1950 Butler Pike # 193 *Conshohocken PA 19428
HEALTH & WELLNESS 11 Ask Yourself: What did I do for ME today? A Simple Guide to SelfCare
OUR COMMUNITY
12 Conshohocken Brewing Celebrates 3rd Anniversary, Plans to Expand to More Locations 13 Conshohocken has it’s own Radio Station
SPECIAL SECTION 14 Growing up in Conshy 15 Maternal Meanderings
Call/Email/Web Phone: 610-825-3300 Info@ConshyCourier.com ConshyCourier.com We welcome your ideas and feedback. Write us at Info@ConshyCourier.com. Through our website at ConshyCourier.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.
Conshy Courier, a publication of MontCo Media LLC, is published monthly and is distributed in Conshohocken, West Conshohocken, Plymouth and Lafayette Hill. The publisher assumes no liability for typographical errors except to reprint that portion of the advert that was incorrect. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Opinions expressed by columnists are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MontCo Media LLC. Reproduction of these pages or their content is permitted only with prior approval from the publisher.
COVER PAGE:
ARTIST? ILLUSTRATOR? Are you an Illustrator or artist and want your art to be considered for our cover page? Email us Info@ConshyCourier.com @CONSHYCOURIER
FACEBOOK.COM/CONSHYCOURIER
Olivia Wellman is a 6th grade student at St. Philip Neri School. Her hobbies and interests include art, theater performance, choir, writing,dance, music, singing, designing computer graphics volunteering and anything creative. In 2015, Olivia wrote her first book "The Value of Friendship" and won First Place for Best Story. Her book was published and is on the shelf at the William Jeanes Library. In 2016, she won Best Vocal for the school theater production and also in 2017 won Best Supporting Role. She was inspired to draw the front cover by observing nature and using her creative talents.
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NEWS
PWHS JUNIOR FAIR WINS COUNTY BILLBOARD CONTEST
Plymouth Whitemarsh High School junior Maddy Fair was named the winner of the Montgomery County Prescription Overdose Awareness Billboard Contest sponsored by the Montgomery County Commissioners. She was recognized at the Commissioners meeting on March 16. Ms. Fair's design was selected from 11 finalists and is on display on seven billboards throughout Montgomery County through April. Five of the billboards are located on the Pennsylvania Turnpike – one just west of the Norristown exit, one just east of the Northeast Extension, One just east of the Fort Washington exit, one on the county boarder east of the Willow Grove exit and one just near the Lansdale/Kulpsville exit on the North East Extension. There is also one on Route 309 south of Church Road and one on Route 100 north of Pottstown. PWHS sophomore Jess Valentine was also among the 11 finalists in the contest.
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(L to R): PWHS Principal Dr. Jason Bacani, Commissioner Joe Gale, Commission Dr. Val Arkoosh, Maddy Fair, Commission Kenneth Lawrence, Jr, Office of Drug and Alcohol Prevention Coordinator Katie Kucz, PWHS teacher Candy Maggioncalda, Lori Fair and Kenny Fair.
TWO PWHS STUDENTS QUALIFY FOR DECA NATIONAL COMPETITION. Plymouth Whitemarsh High School juniors Steven Fandozzi and Sam Cohen have qualified for the 2017 DECA International Career Development Conference to be held April 26-29 in Anaheim, Calif. The students advanced based on their performance at the Pennsylvania DECA Career Development Conference in February. Fandozzi placed first overall and earned the medal for high role pay score in Automotive Services Marketing. Cohen earned a medal for high role play score and placed fourth overall in Business Finance. Other PWHS students who were recognized at the state conference include junior Justin Hong who won the medal for high role play score in Food marketing. Junior Emmie Cohen placed in the top six for Public Speaking and senior
PWHS Fandozzi Rhea Trainson finished among the top six in Advertising Campaign.For nearly 70 years, DECA has prepared emerging leaders
PWHS Cohen and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.
PWHS WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT RECEIVES STATE AWARD The Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) World Languages Department has been recognized as one of the best in the Commonwealth by the Pennsylvania State Modern Languages Association. PWHS recently received a 2017 Silver Globe Award from the organization. "This award really validates the work that we've been doing to create an elite language program," said department chair Rich Madel, a Spanish teacher and master teacher. "Our students receive cross-curricular content instruction in the target language that empowers them to gain proficiency in each mode of communication and apply their abilities in the real world." Mr. Madel also credits course structure and the manner in which they are taught as reasons PWHS was acknowledged as an exemplary program. "Each course is founded on authentic documents taken directly from the target culture and prepares students for communicative scenarios that mirror what they would encounter in the real world," he said. "In this sense, we can be confident that students exiting our program are set up for success in the 21st century interconnected environment as lin-
World Language Group – Sitting (L to R): Sophie Davidson, Jen Brotman and Patty D’Annunzio. Standing (L to R): Rich Madel, Will Blubaugh, Laure Kuszyk, Jason Williams and Katy Geare
guistically and culturally competent global citizens." The Silver Globe Award is presented to schools that show exceptional performance in a number of categories including: retaining students at a higher level; ensuring that each level is offered as a separate course and not a tiered course; providing a variety of languages in at least a four-year sequence; participation in AP courses; implementing key instructional practices in each classroom; providing special language-related
events and opportunities within the community; and, participation in yearly staff development. The Silver Globe Award is the first for PWHS. "As a staff we are really excited to gain this recognition and be considered among the top programs in the state," said Mr. Madel. The department includes Will Blubaugh (Latin), Jen Brotman (Spanish), Patty D'Annunzio (Spanish), Sophie Davidson (French), Katy Geare (Spanish), Laure Kuszyk (French), Mr. Madel and Jason Williams (Spanish). 5.17 | Conshy Courier | 5
PWHS STUDENTS WIN GOLD AT STATE HOSA CONFERENCE Five Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) students won medals while competing for the Central Montco Technical High School at the HOSA-Future Health Professionals State Conference in Lancaster earlier this month. Three of the students earned gold medals and the right to compete at the HOSA National Conference in Orlando, Fla. in June. Winning gold were senior Alejandra Villanueva in the Allied Health Lab HOSA Bowl event and sophomore Monserrat Villanueva in the Health Care Sciences Lab HOSA Bowl Event. Senior Joshua Araujo earned a gold medal in the Allied Health Lab Behavioral Health event. Araujo also received a trophy for finishing third in the Healthcare Issues Exam. Two PWHS students earned bronze medals. Junior Brandon Bean and sophomore Brianna Righter bother won bronze in the Public Safety Lab Cert Skills event. HOSA-Future Health Professionals, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America, is a national career and technical student organization endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Technology Education Division of the Association for Career and Technical Education.
CSD FOOD SERVICES DEPARTMENT RECEIVES GRANTS The Colonial School District Food Services Department has been awarded $6,300 through two separate grant programs. Each of the District's four K-3 schools have received $1,200 through the Pennsylvania Smarter Lunchrooms Mini Grant Program. Another $1,500 was awarded through the federal Farm to School Grant Program for use at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) and Colonial Middle School (CMS).
The Smarter Lunchroom Program focuses on research-based principles and strategies that have proven effective in creating an environment that encourages children to make healthy choices in school cafeterias. The minimal changes to the serving lines have returned maximum results. In the K-3 schools, swapping out old stainless steel pans with black containers makes colorful fruits and vegetables "pop," better positioning pans so that smaller students can see what is being served, giving items creative names and adding colorful signs to the serving line have had a positive effect. "Using vibrant signs and cartoonish characters and coming up with creative names like Sensational Celery or Power Up Peaches helps grab the students' attention," said Director of Food Services Lori McCoy. "It's nice to see young students come through the line and be excited about choosing fruits and vegetables." The purpose of the USDA Farm to School Grant Program is to assist eligible entities in implementing farm to school programs that improve access to local foods in eligible schools. Colonial will use the grant funds at PWHS and CMS to have Chef Bill Scepansky, a consultant for the Pennsylvania Department of Education Division of Food and Nutrition conduct a hands-on training session to provide food service staff more ways to integrate local foods into school meals. "It's another way to give healthier options to our students," said Mrs. McCoy. "The students are more aware of the environment and sustainability practices are becoming more important to them. Sourcing food locally is one way we can take part in this 'green'
The cafeteria line at Whitemarsh Elementary school sports new graphics to grab students’ attention.
initiative." Mrs. McCoy added that the District has used locally grown peaches, watermelon, spinach, mushrooms, cucumbers and more in lunches this school year. "Both grants enable us to incorporate measures that increase healthy nutrition options and encourage students to make better choices," Mrs. McCoy said. "Good nutrition helps students perform their best in the classroom."
PWHS FRONT ENTRANCE NOW CLOSED
The front entrance to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School is now closed for renovations and will remain closed through the end of the school year. As a result, a number of important changes are in place effecting vehicular and pedestrian traffic entering and exiting the building. Please be advised that: · The main entrance to the building is closed. · The parking lot at the front of the high school is closed. · Visitors are advised to follow the posted directional signs to the temporary main entrance. See FRONT ENTRANCE page 8
Let us help you toast your loved ones birthdays and anniversaries. Visit us at www.ConshyCourier.com For the registration form!
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WEST CONSHOHOCKEN BOROUGH COUNCIL TAKES ON GERRYMANDERING At its April 11, 2017 meeting, west Conshohocken Borough Council considered a resolution seeking to end gerrymandering in Pennsylvania by supporting legislation calling for transparent, fair and independent redistricting reform. The Borough Council passed the resolution unanimously. The resolution also calls upon every elected official who represents the voters in the Borough of West Conshohocken to publicly support and work for passage of that legislation. (See attached resolution.) Gerrymandering is a practice intended to establish an advantage for the political party in power by manipulating electoral district boundaries. West Conshohocken Borough has joined a growing list of municipalities passing resolutions in support of the es-
tablishment of an independent citizens redistricting commission that will end that practice. (https:// www.fairdistrictspa.com/ resolutions-in-support) “Gerrymandering gravely impacts Montgomery County,” says Paula Schafer, Fair Districts PA Coordinator in Montgomery County. “Our population size warrants a U.S Congressman dedicated exclusively to serving our needs. However, we’re currently divided into slivers among the districts of 5 representatives. We don’t make up the majority of any of the congressional districts we occupy and none of the Congressmen acting on our behalf live within our county borders. None of this equates to good representation.”
Ending gerrymandering is a nonpartisan issue with bipartisan support: https:// www.brennancenter.org/ blog/redistricting-reformtakes-step-forwardpennsylvania (The Brennan Center) Fair Districts PA is a nonpartisan, statewide coalition of citi-
zens and organizations run by the League of Women Voters. We’re working to end gerrymandering and ensure Pennsylvania’s district maps are drawn in a way that’s impartial, transparent and fair. Our goal is to secure the adoption of an amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution replacing the current partisan system of redistricting with an independent, impartial, citizen commission before the 2020 U.S. Census.
FRONT ENRANCE from page 6
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· The temporary main entrance to the school, including the lobby guard checkpoint, is located at the rear of the building. The entrance off of the rear parking lot between the 60s and 50s hallways – the entrance closest to the north gym – will be the temporary main entrance for the remainder of the school year. · Visitor parking spaces are available in the rear of the building near the temporary entrance. · Parents dropping students off at school must do so via the rear parking lot. · Cars cannot access the front parking lot or the
circle in front of the building from Germantown Pike or Colonial Drive. · There is no access into the building for students from the front of the building. · Parents may pick students up after school on Germantown Pike but must follow traffic regulations established by Whitemarsh Township. Students being picked up on Germantown Pike should exit the building from the science wing. We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as the main phases of the PWHS renovation project near completion.
BUSINESS
TASTE OF CONSHOHOCKEN ~ SCOOPS
with Yaniv Aronson, Chair of the Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club This is a continuing column highlighting individuals, businesses and charities that work to better our community. Anthony Della Porta is the owner of Scoops ice cream shop, located at 515 Fayette St, Conshohocken. How did you get into the ice cream business? How long have your run Scoops? My mother owned the shop prior to me, but I would help her out a few days a week. Working those days really gave me an appreciation for Scoops’ service to the community and allowed me to get to know our neighbors. When my mother offered to sell the business to me in 2006, I jumped at the opportunity and have been here ever since. Does the seasonal nature of Scoops make your job harder or easier? What do you do in the off-season? I enjoy the seasonal aspect of Scoops. I like seeing momentum build in customers as we gear up to open for the season. It is always different every year because opening day can be very warm, like it has been the past couple of years, or very cold, like it was for this year’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade. In the off-season, I work in the Philadelphia School District so there is a great balance with my day job. What is your favorite part of owing a local business? I love being an entrepreneur. The challenges of running a business are fun, exhilarating, and stressful, but are all worth the time and effort. My favorite part of the shop is the relationship with my employees, some of whom have been with me since I purchased the store. Seeing the teamwork of my employees and watching them grow up year-to-year is particularly heartening. At the end of the day, though, Scoops is an ice cream shop,
so it is a fun business to be in year after year.
How do you see yourself, and Scoops, as a part of the larger Conshohocken community? I love seeing the impact this business has on the community. I see and hear how the people in the area embrace Scoops as their go-to ice cream destination. The excitement is tremendous as soon as we open for the season and throughout until the
end. With the growth of social media, it is also great to keep track of who checks-in on Facebook and who posts pictures on Instagram. We have our own hashtag #scoopsconshy where you can see all the people who have posted pictures throughout the season. It’s all fun. There are a lot of tears when we do close for the season, but it’s just part of the business. Overall, I'm glad I can contribute something great to the community. And I love being a part of it.
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HOME There’s been a long-time rivalry between Conshy and West Conshy since I can remember; however, that has slowly faded over time with of our industrial buildings changing to office buildings and the narrow two-lane bridge to a four-lane bridge, leading to more highways. We are definitely evolving into one all-encompassing community, divided only by a River we stand connected by the Bridge, a Zip Code, and the People who reside here. Outside our area, no one is aware of our differences; in fact, most people are very confused by the whole West Side & East Side of Fayette St. and somehow think that is West Conshy. (It’s very funny when someone is looking for a home and they ask me, which cracks me up. Guess you had to be there.) When I was younger, growing up in Conshy, the differences were more apparent and that is what separated
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“CONNECTED BY 19428” us, not the River. I think a big part of that was due to our families causing rivalries between Firehouses, and even more apparent, sports’ teams. West Conshy Raiders vs. Conshy Bears -- that was a GAME! Our CYO teams were also heavy in competition, having so many parishes. The only reason we were allowed to cross the bridge, or even wanted to, was to dine at our favorite fast-food chain, McDonald’s. Today, as with everything else, times have changed (Some good…some not so good). Our Catholic Churches have united into one; West Conshy football has faded away; and we have wayyyy better restaurants to choose from. And, because of our ability to grow and change, we (both sides of the bridge) are a sought-after community. I’m often asked by the new buyers in town, “What is the difference be-
tween each Borough” in regards to the housing market. The old answer is no longer right; we are no longer in competition. So, I go with this: The answer is lifestyle. If you are a daily commuter, want to walk to the restaurants, and want Colonial School District, then Conshy is your choice (I saw a Twitter post recently where someone hated hearing the name Conshy instead of Conshohocken… it’s an endearing term used by the hardworking people who built the town.). If you take 76, 476 or work at one of the Tower Bridges or GSK, then West Conshy would be more your thing. However, as the two Boroughs evolve and grow, so will the defining of each housing market and their demographics. The demand to reside in West Conshohocken is rising as high-end homes begin to emerge; such as, the See 19428 page 11
HEALTH AND WELLNESS "Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life." This is something my mom would say every time I faced some type of “my life is over” situation (i.e. broke up with a boyfriend, failed a math test, or didn't get that job I wanted). When I was younger, I used to roll my eyes and think, "Why do these things keep happening to me?" The truth is, when life adversities hit, most people want to know why things happen to try and make some sense out of a situation. I used to analyze anything that made me feel bad and look for answers when I was faced with feelings of sadness, anger, or disappointment. I wanted a sense of control over my life. At least that’s what I thought needed in order to feel some sort of solace. In reality, I had to stop trying to look for answers and start living in the moment. I realized that I had to start taking better care of my mind, my body, and my soul. Self-care became a priority! If you’ve ever felt a sense of "burn out,” then you need to start incorporating self-care into your daily life! My goal is to help you recognize when it might be time to focus more on selfcare and less on self-doubt. I am a licensed psychotherapist who has made a career out of analyzing human behavior and helping others, so I know first-hand how important it is that we take care of our own emotional and physical well-being. I have created my
ASK YOURSELF: WHAT DID I DO FOR ME TODAY? A SIMPLE GUIDE TO SELF-CARE
own self-care toolbox that I would like to share with you. I suggest you make your own self-care toolbox and make it a priority to incorporate one of those items into your life at least once a day, if not more. I now understand the meaning behind what my mom was saying, and I am so thankful. In utilizing my self-care toolbox, I realize that every day is a blessing. Even though the demands of life may get in the way, decide today to make self-care a priority. Tomorrow can mean new beginnings and a new outlook on life. “Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life." Alison Seponara, MS, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor with Private Practice in Conshohocken, PA. Alison specializes in anxiety disorders and works specifically with women who have experienced a major life-changing event (i.e. childbirth, loss of a loved one, divorce, job loss, financial struggles, personal trauma, chronic illness). If you or anyone you know are in need of support, please don’t hesitate to contact Alison for a free consultation. You may contact Alison via e-mail at AlisonSeponaraLPC@gmail.com or by phone at (610)952-4169.
My SELF-CARE Toolbox: Yoga Biking A hike in the woods Walk on the trail Spending time with my dog Writing in a journal Giving someone a compliment Smiling and saying hello to someone on the street Getting a pedicure Drinking tea and listening to music Making jewelry Telling someone “I love you” A daily mantra Saying “thank you” every morning I wake up Watching TV Taking a bath Playing with my niece and nephew Reading
19428 from page 10 new luxury homes of “Echo Ridge” developed by Borkowski Homes (you all know him as Chuck, the builder next door) -- a sought-after community sitting high on the ridge overlooking the Boroughs and their River. It’s reminiscent to Nolen Builders, whose
pioneering efforts led to the construction of Merion Hill, offering a lifestyle appealing to young professionals, sports figures, and Main Line downsizers alike. No matter what side of the bridge you live on, I think we can all agree
that we love our community and would not trade it for the world. Binnie Bianco REALTOR Long & Foster – Conshohocken. See Binnie’s ad on back page
SEE YOUR AD HERE! www.ConshyCourier.com Conshohocken’s only local community newspaper. The Courier distributes to over 85 locations in the Conshohockens, Plymouth, Lafayette Hill and East Norriton. 5.17 | Conshy Courier | 11
OUR COMMUNITY
CONSHOHOCKEN BREWING CELEBRATES 3RD ANNIVERSARY, PLANS TO EXPAND TO MORE LOCATIONS
By Sarah McGlinchey Conshohocken Brewing Company celebrated its third anniversary at its flagship location on Saturday, April 1, 2017, complete with new beer releases, apparel giveaways, and a cleanup on the multi-use paved trail it calls home: the Schuylkill River Trail. The company’s first location, the trail location, is often referred to as “the taproom,” and is where larger beer production occurs. A frequent stopping point for bikers, runners, and walkers, its casual, mess-hall style dining room extends into a deck that overlooks the Trail, with stairs for easy Trail and brewery access. Since opening in 2014, the Company has expanded to two locations, having opened a gastropub in Bridgeport in August 2016. They’ve also grown in beer production, from producing one beer a month to two-three beers a week. Producing two-three beers a week has led the Company to expand to contracted distribution, and will lead to a third and fourth location within the next year, said Kevin Love, head of Onsite Business Operations. Though he couldn’t disclose more information on the next locations for Conshohocken Brewing, Love did confirm that with the growth of sales and production, expansion will be inevitable. In an era when craft brewing is trending and competition for staying power can be fierce, Love believes the local staff, an expert head brewer, and the quality of the beer has contributed to the growth of Conshohocken Brewing. “Our beer is very high quality,” said
Love, “and we’re constantly testing it and making improvements.” The company also has a level of quality control that Love, who is a veteran of the restaurant and brewery industry, said only high-end, large brewing companies can replicate. A long-time manager at Iron Hill Brewery, Love said that the quality equipment used at Conshohocken Brewing Company wasn’t used at Iron Hill, a much larger chain of craft breweries. So what encompasses quality control? “We wait 72 hours to make sure that the can is going to be drinkable and sealed right,” said Love. “We weigh every single can that we release, and if it’s not to the right gram, we don’t sell it.” This means that each can of beer has to be a certain weight to prevent oxygen from entering the can. Oxygen
could cause the beer to go bad faster, and Love says the company refuses to take that risk. Andrew Horne, head brewer, is who brought quality control to Conshohocken Brewing. Horne, who started at Yards Brewing Company, is testing and retesting every beer before it is canned. “He’s the one bringing that quality product every single day to our guests,” said Love. Horne spent years at Avery Brewing Company in Boulder, Colorado, and also at Breakside Brewing in Portland, Oregon. Both Horne and Love live down the street from the taproom in Conshohocken, and the head chef at the Bridgeport location is from Norristown. Additionally, almost all of the staff at both locations live in the local area.
REACH OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY! Contact: Teresa Parris
Info@ConshyCourier.com 610-825-3300 12 | Conshy Courier | 5.17
CONSHOHOCKEN NOW HAS ITS OWN RADIO STATION
On Saturday, April 1st 2017 Mr. Dwight Young launched Conshy Connect Radio Station. Mr. Young is no stranger to online broadcasting. A few years ago he launched Spiritual Rejoice which is the spiritual version of Conshy Connect. In attendance for the grand opening were the
Mayor, Bob Frost, friends and well wishers. There were also a few of the show hosts eager to get their shows up and running. A few of the registered shows are, Courier Radio Show hosted by Teresa, Conshy Talk Radio ~ hosted by Henry Racich.
Radio Station owner Pastor Dwight Young and Mrs. Missy Young
WHAT IS COMMUNION? Some people, including young children preparing to receive the sacrament of Holy Communion, may be confused by what it is all about. Children may mistakenly think that receiving Holy Communion is a singular event. But First Holy Communion is only the beginning of a potential lifelong commitment to Jesus Christ. What is Holy Communion? Christians believe that Holy Communion is the receiving of Jesus Christ through the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is comprised of bread and wine, although some denominations believe that it is not necessary to receive the Lord's body and blood in each, instead feeling that Christ is present fully in either the bread or wine. Catholics believe that through the process of transubstantiation the bread and wine before the priest becomes the body and blood
Our Mayor, Bob Frost (center) surrounded by a few hosts
of Christ. According to catechism and the liturgy, as soon as the Institution Narrative begins, the Lord is present in the elements of bread and wine. The institution of Holy Eucharist occurred during the Last Supper. As stated in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Jesus instructed His followers to use bread and wine to remember the sacrifice He was going to make when He died on the cross for people's sins. A continuous act
While much fanfare is understandably afforded to
First Holy Communion, Christians receive the Eucharist every day at church services all over the world. Receiving communion is not a singular act. People recognized that every time they gathered around a table to eat and drink, it provided an opportunity to recognize and thank Jesus. Adults can reinforce this concept to children by explaining that receiving Communion each week at Mass is just as special as receiving it that first time in spring. Celebration not an obligation Although the Church advises all Christians to receive
communion when free from mortal sin and with the right intentions, Holy Communion should not seem like an obligation. Rather, individuals can view it as a celebration and an opportunity to reconnect with Jesus each time they receive the host. Make the process more exciting for children by explaining that Holy Communion is a party and a happy endeavor. According to the religious resource CatholicCity, the only time people are obligated to receive Holy Communion is during Easter and when in danger of death. Holy Communion is an opportunity to enter into an intimate union with Jesus Christ, who Christians believe provides holiness and grace to all who are willing to receive Him. 5.17 | Conshy Courier | 13
SPECIAL SECTION In 1958 in Conshohocken, just like in the rest of the country, it was hard to turn on the TV without seeing a western on any of the three channels available at the time. There were shows like The Rifleman, Gunsmoke, The Life and Times of Wyatt Earp and Wanted Dead or Alive that were just a few of the many weekly shows that illustrated the rugged and heroic west of the 19th century. I was 10 years old at the time and watched those shows quite often. In fact, they had a profound effect on me, and, in hindsight, even influenced the things I did or didn't do. Yes, you could even say that I lived vicariously through the TV personas of men like Chuck Connors (The Rifleman), Steve McQueen (Wanted Dead or Alive) and James Arness (Gunsmoke). Even earlier than that -- when or how it started, I don't remember -- I had a Hopalong Cassidy (plastic) gun and holster, and matching
SITTING
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GROWING UP IN CONSHY By Walter Ault
boots. Growing up on the 200 block of Maple Street, my friends and I used to spend a lot of time in the woods behind my house. There was also a clearing on a hill in those woods where we would sled in the winter, or slid down the grassy incline on a sheet of cardboard in the summer. Just a few feet from the clearing there was a big rock, all by itself, which became the place where my friends and I would meet and/or just hang out. The whole area was less than half an acre, but it was important to us and was where we spent an inordinate amount of time. The other aspect of the area which I remember the most was a creek that ran along the bottom of the aforementioned hill and which is one of the two focal points of this story: the other being where the creek disappeared from view.
TRAINING
I remember one hot summer afternoon when one of my friends asked whether or not he should drink from the creek. Pretty much without even hesitating, I said with supreme confidence that, of course, it was safe. After all, I said, all the cowboys do it. I went on to explain that if you ever watch any of the TV westerns, you often see the hero ride up on his horse after a long, hot, dusty ride and voraciously drink -- with his horse at his side -- from a creek, river or lake. For a long time thereafter we hydrated ourselves from that creek, never seeing any reason to stop. It became a regular part of our many visits to the woods. Nevertheless, there was a mystery concerning that creek that I and my friends often thought about and talked about. It disappeared from view at a cave that it flowed into, and, being curious kids, we wondered where it led. We often talked about exploring the cave and all of us had opinions about what was possibly in it -- rats, snakes, bats were often mentioned -- and as a result a thorough investigation of the cave was repeatedly postponed. Oh sure, we went into the cave a few times, but never more than 20 feet or so, with the cave becoming dark very quickly. Of course, no one wanted to admit they were scared, but I think we all were. I also believe that, being young boys, there was that always present fear that our parents wouldn't like us exploring a cave, not to mention the trepidation about what they would do if they found out. Nevertheless, we decided to put all our fears behind us and explore the cave...for two reasons: to satisfy our overwhelming curiosity, and to prove that we were indeed brave souls who weren't going to be afraid of our parents anymore and do what we wanted to do. So one summer day about five of us got our flashlights, put on long-sleeve
shirts and boots to help protect us from any snake or other animal bites, and entered the cave. As far as I was aware, none of us was so concerned about not coming back that he left a will. The excitement and anxiety we all felt upon entering the cave, and everything that happened during the journey, is still very clear and vivid in my mind. Needless to say, if we had a cell phone like people have today, any video we would have made would have definitely been a big hit on the internet. As we walked, with our feet moving very slowly and violently waving our flashlights, we remained focused and pushed on through the imposing darkness. When I think back about the moment, I'm not really sure what we expected to find. Maybe we thought we would find a tropical paradise with a waterfall and a lagoon where we could go swimming and just go wild without any parental supervision. What we ultimately found was much different. After what seemed like hours, and, consequently, what we assumed was many miles, we saw some light, which certainly pleased and thrilled us all. And, of course, we were all very proud of ourselves. “We did it. We made it,� someone said. After regaining our composure, we enthusiastically approached the light, which we quickly realized was coming through a mysterious and certainly unexpected metal grate in the ceiling. I laugh to myself when I remember the initial shock and the subsequent disappointment and disbelief when I reached up, grabbed the grate and pulled myself up. What I saw was not a tropical paradise far away from Conshohocken. What I did see was the gutter on West 5th Avenue, two-and-a-half blocks from where we started. See GROWING UP
page 15
MATERNAL MEANDERINGS by Bradley E. Lacey Three quarters of a blissful year were spent within the hospitable lair of my dear lady’s womb. We had everything that we needed, did my brother and me: nourishment, companionship and love – more love than perhaps was necessary, but by no means were we looking to complain. We were hoarders back then; glad we were, as today we must draw large draughts from the reserve that was laid back in the day – a day in which we lived, moved and had our being within our dear mum’s belly of maternal love. We knew the length and breadth of her love, as well as its height and depth. There was nothing else to know for the longest time. She was, Mum, Mummy and Mother, all rolled into one magnificent incarnation, a maternal mode from heaven that transposed itself in various “maternalities” (I know; I know: I made the word up in honor of our dear one!) of our life together. She blessedly loved us, conditionally and totally; we blissfully loved her,
unabashedly and wantonly. There’s nothing quite like it; is there? The Savior’s love is all that may compare, only that which provokes greater rivalry or which elicits more transcendent devotion and, notwithstanding their respective spheres, gives forth such mutual esteem yet also such affectionate competition. It’s the nature of the thing; like it or not. Jesus knew well the “dichotomy of complementarities.” He loved His mother; dearly and with deep affection. He addressed her as “Woman” which, by today’s standards, is a tone-laden term that would elicit a terse rebuke of chauvinistic disrespect; then, it was an expression of tender endearment, which is how Jesus felt truly towards his mother. Still, He had to put her in her place, for she must be blessedly second to His devotion to His Father in heaven. “Why were you searching for me? Don’t you know I had to be in my
Father’s house?” (Luke 2.49). “Dear woman, why do you involve me? My time has not yet come” (John 2.4). The one, when they couldn’t find him; the other, when Mary wanted Him to provide more wine for the wedding – both expressive of a mother’s sense of prerogative. But He twice obeyed her, having made His point. Yet, when hanging from His cross at Calvary, He looked upon His mother below him, awash as she was in bereavement and shock, and lovingly entrusted her to his best friend John: “Dear woman, here is your son” and,
to his friend, “Here is your mother.” We then read that “from that time on, the disciple took her into his home” (John 19.26, 27). He both distanced Himself from her, yet made loving provision for her. The womb was such a lovely place, but the umbilical cord must be severed. The lengthy nurture was bliss, but responsibility assumes its rightful place with time. The lesson remains the same; though, as Jesus knew better than anyone: Mothers are incomparably beautiful, as is our Heavenly Father incomparably glorious. The one, by the very nature of things, must defer to the other. Praise God for the divine gift to us of mothers!
GROWING UP from page 14 I laugh once again when I think back about how we were disappointed in what our journey led us to. But none of us at the time, at least, thought about the other ramification of our discovery: the water we had been drinking. It definitely doesn't take a lot of imagination to realize that the water obviously had some foreign elements in it, many associated with automobiles. In any case, it certainly wasn't like the streams in the cowboy TV shows. Like I stated earlier. we were just a bunch of young, naive kids and didn't understand the difference between living in an urban area in the 20th century, and living in the wide-open spac-
es in the 19th century. And I guess you could also say we didn't realize there was a difference between what you see on TV and real life. Of course, being so young, we also lacked common sense, as well as the ability to analyze a situation or understand that what we do may have serious consequences. In hindsight, maybe that's a good thing since we didn't dwell on what had happened. In the end, however, we proved to be resilient, and strove to keep enjoying life. We just simply put the whole sad cave exploration thing behind us and continued to look for other adventures and experiences. We just made sure we drank plenty of water before we left our homes 5.17 | Conshy Courier | 15
CONSHOHOCKEN BOROUGH REPRESENTATIVES Do you know who your Ward Representatives are? Who do you call when you have a concern? Here are your current representatives. Please reach out. Ward 1Karen Ann Tutino 484-368-3658 ktutino@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 2James (Ike) Griffin— President* 610-828-4638 jgriffin@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 3Tina Marie Sokolowski 610-828-4520 tsokolowski@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 4 Anita L Parton* 610-397-1581 abarton@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 5 Jane A Flanagan* 484-532-7941 jflanagan@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 6 Bob C. Stokley 610-636-7230 610-825-5363 610-825-1271 rstokeley@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 7 Colleen Leonard 610-828-6856 cleonard@conshohockenpa.gov Mayor Robert S Frost* 610-828-6856 bfrost@conshohockenpa.gov Or, you may write to your Council Representative at the Borough e.g. Mrs. Karen Tutino Ward 1, C/O Borough Administration 400 Fayette Street, Suite 200, Conshohocken, PA 19428 * This year we re-elect Council Representatives, the Mayor and our local Tax Collector. Council Members up for election are Wards 2, 6 and 5 which was appointed last year when the seat became vacant. Please get involved with the growth and development of our town, Conshohocken.
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TAKE A CLASS AT CYCLEBAR AND SUPPORT THE COLONIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT EDUCATION FOUNDATION Get a workout and a preview of CycleBar, a premium indoor cycling franchise coming to Plymouth Meeting, while supporting Colonial School District schools through the Colonial School District Education Foundation (CSDEF)! For a donation of $25 or more, you can join a class -- with 100% of your donation coming back to support teachers and students in Colonial! Click on the link for the date and time you'd like to take the 50-minute class and then click to reserve your bike. Bring cash, credit card or check made payable to the CSDEF to class with you to make your donation. May 11, 10 a.m.: Ride with Conshohocken Elementary Principal Rose Rock, Colonial Middle School Assistant Principal Phil Chang and Whitemarsh Elementary Principal Donna Drizin! Click here to register. May 16, 7 p.m.: Ride with Colonial Elementary Principal Dr. TC Boegly and Assistant Principal Kylene Phillips! Click here to register. May 17, 6 a.m.: Ride with Superintendent Dr. MaryEllen Gorodetzer! Register online at colonialsd.org
Here is everything you'll need for class: Wear workout clothes! CycleBar will provide the water bottles, shoes and towels. Bring your friends and family to increase the fun—each class will hold up to 48 riders at a time! Share the link so they can register! CycleBar is located at the Plymouth Meeting Mall – next to Whole Foods, 500 W. Germantown Pike in Plymouth Meeting. Thank you for supporting the Colonial School District Education Foundation!
CONSHOHOCKEN 101 Fallen Puzzle: Use the letters to solve this popular phrase used in Conshohocken. Submit your answer for a cool prize from of one of our sponsors. Email your answer to
Info@ConshyCourier.com
CLASSIFIEDS COMMUNITY GROUPS
CUSTOMER SERVICE/ SALE ASSOCIATE
Shop online or my inventory today! Contact me at 701-741-8655 or www.youravon.com/marilynwynne or email: Fender612@gmail.com
Farmers Chavarria Agency is seeking marketing/sales support from a highly motivated and energetic candidate to support the office growth. Office is located in Conshohocken on Fayette Street. Ideal candidate will have telemarketing experience and interest in exploring career options in insurance. Flexible schedule with 15-20 hours weekly with opportunity for full time position if growth supports the need. Please email your interest to MChavarria1@farmersagent.com
Conshohocken Business and Professional Women Meets the 4th Monday of each month. Please visit website for more information at http://www.conshohockenbpw.org The CPW Rotary meets Thursday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the William Jeanes Memorial Library (4051 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hill). The evening satellite meetings meet Monday nights at 7 pm at Guppy’s Good Times (2 Maple Street, Conshohocken). To learn more about the club or to join, please visit cpwrotary.com and keep up with the latest updates at
facebook.com/CPWRotaryClub.
Farmers Chavarria Agency located on Fayette Street has excess space including private offices on a best offer. (Temporary or permanent basis). Please call to discuss (484) 532-7100
VENDORS WANTED!
WPBN/Conshohocken/Plymouth/ Whitemarsh Chapter meeting the 3rd Wednesday of each Month Register online at www.PWBN.org
COURIER FIRST ANNUAL COLONIAL SPRINGEST
St Matthews Senior Group meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month at 12:30. Everyone is welcome to join. Lunch $5.
Moved to the B Field E 13th Avenue, Conshohocken
LEGO Club ages 5-10 meets Tuesdays 3:454:30 pm to Collaborate and Create.
Send your news to: info@ConshyCourier.com Deadline: 15th of each month
9:00 AM TO 4:00 PM
OFFICE SPACE
Adult Book Club @ Conshy Library 3rd Wed of each month 6:45-8 pm.
Questions: call 610.825.3300
Info@ConshyCourier.com
Kiwanis Club of Conshohocken meets at 7:00 pm Tuesdays at Andy’s Diner, Ridge Pike, Conshohocken. Contact: ConshyKiwanis@gmail.com.
FILL OUT COMPLETELY TO INSURE PUBLICATION OF ADVERT ALL CONTRACTORS MUST HAVE THEIR STATE LICENSE # IN THEIR AD FOR CREDIT CARD CHARGES, FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT COMPLETELY: Name: _____________________________________ MasterCard Visa Discover Billing Address: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________ Credit Card # _______________________________ Expiration: _______ CV Code ____ Signature Required: ___________________________________ $20.00 Minimum Charge
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY
5/14 Happy birthday Jen Hudson from your friends at Conshy Courier
5/18 Happy birthday Mackenzie Breinlinger from your friends at Conshy Courier
Our Gift to you!
5/23 Happy birthday Aunty Tressy from Katie
5/30 Happy birthday Liz Monteleone from your friends at Conshy Courier
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
On this Mother’s Day celebrate me my beloved, know that I am near. Smile, laugh, and joke about me, don’t spend a second shedding a tear. I am with you always, though I maybe absent from the seeing eye. There will never come a time that I leave you; a mother never says goodbye. I watch you each; I am proud of who you've become although I am not physically there. I walk along side of you when you are lonely and feel that no one cares. My love will never wither; it is the one thing that lives long after my body left. It cheers you on in the good times, and it wipes away the tears that are wept. If you listen closely you can hear me whispering these words in your ear. Encouraging you to keep praying, keep believing, and to never live in fear. I feel the pain in your heart, and I hear the question why this had to be. Always remember as long as you are living so is a part of me. So on this day celebrate me; tell others just what I meant to you. Let memories be your ally, trust them to see you through. You have my permission to be happy; you have my permission to be free. Let go of the hurt and live just for me! Submitted by: Melissa A. Young Written May 2016; dedicated to those who no longer celebrate Mother's Day due to their mothers passing. I felt it was a good way to remind them not to mourn the day but instead celebrate their mothers.
Conshy Courier Do you have an idea for a local feature story?
Call: 610.825.3300 Email us at
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OUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR Conshohocken Library Babies @ Library Tuesdays @10:15
Save the Bees Saturday 5/13 11:30-1pm We need to save the Bees!!
Tuesday 5/2, 9, 16, 30, Wednesday 5/17 6:30-8pm @ Conshohocken Library
Preschool-Thursdays @10:15
Family program with children Ages 3-8
Thursday 5/4, 11, 18 There will be NO story times Tues 5/23 and Thurs 5/25
Meet us on the Library’s front lawn where you can make and take a flower pot with flower seeds that the bees will love!!
This program, sponsored by The Franklin Institute , invites children and families to have fun exploring and experimenting with air to understand how something that is invisible can have visible effects and show the power of moving air by making and manipulating wind.
SCIENCE IN THE SUMMER
2017 Topic: The Science of Sports Online Registration goes LIVE Thurs May 4, 2017 at noon
Look for
www.scienceinthesummer.com to sign –up Conshohocken Free Library dates are Wed July 12 and Thurs July 13 Entering Grades 2-3 session 10-12 Entering grades 4-6 session 1-3 ASK THE MAYOR By Mayor Bob Frost The purpose of this column is to respond to our resident’s questions, issues, and problems that may be easily solved or answered through my office. Please feel free to contact me with your requests and we’ll try and address them here, and possibly your question is on the minds of many of our other residents. Your questions / concerns can be emailed to AskConshyMayor@gmail.com.
Council News
May 2017
Ike Griffin, President * Karen Tutino, Vice President * Robert Stokley, Senior Member Tina Sokolowski, Anita Barton, Jane Flanagan and Colleen Leonard Senior Members
APRIL MEETINGS AND EVENTS ZONING HEARING BOARD: - Monday, May 1st @ 7:00pm; Borough Hall
MUNCIPAL AUTHORITY BOARD MEETING: Tuesday, May 23rd @ 6:30-8:30; 601 East Elm Street
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL:- Thursday, May 18th @ 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Borough Hall
VOTING MEETINGS are televised the Thursday evening following the meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Comcast channel 965 and Verizon channel 20.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: - Thursday, May 11th @ 7-9pm; Borough Hall COUNCIL MEETING: - 1ST & 3RD Wednesday May 3rd and 17th @ 7 PM Borough Hall.
Borough Administration 400 Fayette Street, Suite 200, Conshohocken, PA 19428 Phone: (610) 828-1092, Fax: (610) 828-0920 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. citizenrequest@conshohockenpa.gov 5.17 | Conshy Courier | 19
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