News from the YWCA

May 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note: The following information comes from a newsletter from YWCA Tri-County Area.

Director Search

The YWCA on King Street has announced a search for a full-time permanent executive director.

The YWCA's last permanent executive director, Andrea Primas, resigned in Jan. 21, 2013 after 13 years with the organization.

"We are seeking a seasoned professional ready to lead the strategic direction of a regional YWCA," read an announcement from the organization.

"This exciting position involves leadership of more than 38 staff, 100 volunteers, day-to-day operations, strategy implementation, administrative and financial oversight, execution of current and new programs, partnership opportunities, membership growth and fundraising," the announcement read.

Successful candidates will demonstrate competency and experience in the following:

• Leading a non-profit organization and working closely with a board of directors and volunteer teams;
• Developing and executing innovative strategies to take the organization to the next stage of growth;
• Financial oversight;
• Managing programs and services.

The deadline for applications is June 15.

Resume and cover letter should be sent to hr@ywcatricountyarea.org (No phone calls please.)

For more information about the YW, click here. 

Open House and Fun Fair

The YWCA will hold an Early Childhood Education Open House and Fun Fair Day on Saturday, June 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event will include fun activities, kid-friendly beverages and refreshments.

Summer Camp

The YWCA will offer an Outdoor All-Day Summer Camp this summer for children ages 6 to 12.

For more information, contact Renee at 610-323-1888.

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Hope Takes Flight

May 29, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note:The following was provided by the Pottstown Visiting Nurse Association.

Pottstown Visiting Nurse Association will celebrate life with its Annual “Hope Takes Flight” Butterfly Release on Sunday, June 1 at 1 p.m.

Held at "Midge's Garden at the VNA office at 1963 E. High St. in Sanatoga, the event will be held rain or shine.

The event features music, reflective readings and the reading of names of individuals in whose honor or memory butterflies have been dedicated.

Individuals who have dedicated butterflies are then able to release them privately or as part of a larger group.

Community members are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy or participate in the

day’s activities.

Some butterflies are available for a donation of $25/each on a first-come, first-served basis.

Proceeds from this event benefit the charity care programs of Pottstown VNA.

Since 1917, the Pottstown Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) has provided comprehensive home health care services in the area.

Regardless of ability to pay, its nurses help individuals achieve a level of physical independence and emotional well-being in their home of choice. With a legacy built on compassion and caring, VNAP still continues to offer round-the-clock support to patients and their families after nearly a century.

Pottstown VNA's primary programs include Home Health Care including skilled nursing, therapy, Wound, Ostomy and Continence Care, IV therapies, and Hospice.

Additionally, it takes care of bothersome details like insurance authorizations, service coordination and supply deliveries.

For more information, please www.vnapottstown.org or call 855.THE.VNAs.

Healthy Head-Banging

May 30, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Kourage Norris and her award-winning poster.

Blogger's Note:The following was provided by the tireless, never-sleeping, always-sending-us-something John Armato.

Pottstown High School student Kourage Norris was recently recognized for her first place honors in the Extemporaneous Poster Design Contest at the Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference for Health Occupation Students of America. 

The poster competition challenges students to use their knowledge, imagination, and creativity with limited supplies to design a poster.

This year’s topic was concussions. Students were to design posters displaying information about the prevention of, symptoms of, and care of sports concussions. 

Kourage’s first place honors qualify her to attend and compete in the National Leadership Conference held in Orlando, Florida. 

From left, Kasia Butts, Norris and Kenisha Holloway hold the school organization's flag at the conference.

She is no stranger to designing meaningful posters as this is the second year in a row that she has won honors at the State Leadership Conference.

Also attending the conference was Kasia Butts who competed in the Medical Terminology Competition designed to challenge students’ knowledge of career and technical terms. 

Kenisha Holloway represented the school’s chapter as its voting delegate. 

Her responsibilities included carrying the chapter flag during the Parade of Chapters. She attended delegation sessions and voted for state officers and approved the official state tee-shirt.

Health Occupations teacher Michaela Johnson said, “I am so proud of our students. They have represented our school in a positive manner displaying their creativity, imagination, leadership abilities, and positive attitude. This event provides our students with the opportunity to gain knowledge about post-secondary schools and academic resources. It is an excellent experience.”

Perkiomen Creek Sojourn

May 31, 2014, 9:00 pm

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So maybe the idea of the Schuylkill River Sojourn tickles your fancy, but you've never done anything like that before, so you're not so sure you want to sign up for too many days.

Well, there is a way you can try out something similar a little closer to home and only lasts for a couple of hours.

The Perkiomen Creek Sojourn, sponsored by the Perkiomen Watershed conservancy and Keenan, Ciccitto & Assoc. law firm, will be held Saturday, June 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the beautiful Perkiomen Creek.

The rain date is Saturday, June 15.

Canoes and Kayaks are available for rental at $30 for conservancy members and $55 for non-members.

By happy coincidence, the registration fee is also $30 for members and $55 for non-members.

You can get a printable registration form by clicking here.

Of you can print out a copy of this blog post and cut out the form I've pasted here.

The launch point for the event is Red Fox Park, adjacent to the Route 73 bridge over the Perkiomen Creek.

Parking is in the Conservancy parking lot across Route 73 from the launch site.

Take out is at Hoy park, along Arcola Road in Lower Providence Township. Know that transportation back from Hoy Park is limited, so if you have a partner, you may want to park one vehicle at Hoy and the other at Red Fox.

Remember to bring your own lunch and drink, a water bottle and sun screen.

For more information, call the conservancy at 610-287-9383.

Other event sponsors include Eastern Mountain Sports, the Wildlands Conservancy, Alpine Sanitation and the Pennsylvania Organization of Watersheds and Rivers.

It Would Have Been 'Gauche' to Win

June 2, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Photo Courtesy of John Armato Abigail studying with her father Erich Richter

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pottstown School District.

Pottstown Middle School eighth grader Abigail Richter was anything but “gauche” as she competed in the Times Herald Montgomery County Spelling Bee contest held at Norristown High School.

Abigail placed third falling in the eighth round of competition on the word “gauche.”

Along with being an honor student, Abigail is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Reading Olympics, soccer, and track teams. 

In her spare time, she enjoys drawing and writing. 

Abigail has attended Pottstown schools since kindergarten.

When asked about her experience at the spelling bee, Abby said, “I studied the week before for hours. I was not nervous until they made us sit quietly in our seats. I was actually shaking when it got down to the last five students and I knew I had made Pottstown proud.”

“Abigail is an excellent example of a student who has taken full advantage of the educational opportunities provided in the Pottstown School District. We are proud of her many accomplishments and are confident that they are forerunners to greater things in the future,” said eighth grade teacher Mary Ann Hill.

She correctly spelled powwow, mathematics, concerto, verboten, charpoy, calypso, hyperbole, and mesmerize.

"Abigail competed in the Middle School Spelling Bee all three of her years here. I'm so proud to see all of her hard work paying off!" said teacher Mrs. Kim Petro.

Dress for Success

June 3, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note:The following was provided by Pottsgrove Manor

The Mantuamaker is coming to Pottstown.

On Saturday, June 14, 2014 from 11:00am to 3:00pm, historic Pottsgrove Manor will host a living history program, “A Visit from the Mantuamaker.”

As a wealthy family, the Pottses would have likely hired a professional “mantuamaker”—that is a

dressmaker— to cut out, fit, and sew gowns for Mrs. Potts and her daughters. 

In this program, the Manor’s staff and volunteers will demonstrate the process of creating a gown from scratch, as well as other aspects of sewing and tailoring colonial garments. 

They will also be dressed in reproduction 18th-century clothing, giving visitors an up-close look at the fashion of the era. 

Visitors of all ages can try their hand at some of the needlework techniques and play dress-up in replica 18th-century clothing. 

This program is being held in conjunction with the Manor’s current exhibit of both reproduction and original 18th-century garments, “To the Manor Worn: Clothing the 18th-Century Household,” which can be toured on the hour during the program. 

There is a suggested donation of $2 per person for this program. 

The museum shop will also be open throughout the event and will be having a special one-day-only sale—10% off all sewing-related items.

The clothing exhibit can also be toured during regular museum hours through Nov. 2, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.. Tours are given on the hour. 

The last tour of the day begins at 3 p.m. 

The site is closed Mondays and major holidays. Groups of ten or more should pre-register by calling 610-326-4014.

Pottsgrove Manor is located at 100 West King Street near the intersection of King Street and Route 100, just off Route 422. 

Pottsgrove Manor is operated by Montgomery County under the direction of the Parks, Trails, and Historic Sites Division of the Assets and Infrastructure Department. 

For more information, call 610-326-4014, or visit the website at www.montcopa.org/pottsgrovemanor. 

Like Pottsgrove Manor on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pottsgrovemanor.

Council Talks Stormwater, Railroads and Crime

June 4, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Photo by Evan Brandt Yeah, I know, this has nothing to do with the council meeting topics other than the fact that these soap box derby cars are on display in borough hall, along with a placard reminding us the race is June 21 on Wilson Street.

So below are the Tweets, along with a few addendums, from last night's Pottstown Borough Council work session.

As always, remember to click the blue "read next page" bar to ensure you don't miss a single thrilling Tweet from the meeting.,

On the Other Hand....

June 5, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note:The following was submitted as a letter to the editor at The Mercury, but was rejected because the newspaper does not publish un-signed letters. However, the editor passed it along to me and it seemed to me like the content was worthy of discussion in the district.

At the last Pottsgrove School Board meeting, the administration allowed two teachers who support the proposed One-to-one computer plan to speak to the board. 

But as one person following my live Tweeting of that meeting pointed out, no staff who are opposed were given the same opportunity.

As long-time readers of this blog may recall, I have mixed feelings about anonymous publications.

Although the letter which appears below is unsigned, I have confirmed the identity and employment of the author as legitimate and as the anonymity is not being used as a way to make a personal attack, but to make a point while protecting a person's employment, I decided it was worth publishing.

Here is that person's opinion:

I am a Pottsgrove School District employee opposed to the One-to-One proposal featured in the June 3rd article "A computer for every student: How to pay for it?" 

My objections are threefold: it distracts from more critical priorities for improving STEM education; it is a solution in search of a problem for students misusing technology in class; and its implementation is hampered by a blind commitment to Apple over cheaper, more manageable options.

I endorse the pro-STEM platform of the new school board, but the most critical priority for STEM should be addressing curricular content, namely the elementary schools' lack of rote learning of math facts. 

The district, ever-eager to pursue the latest pedagogical theories, has taught students a dozen different "strategies" through an inconsistent, constantly changing curriculum, the result being high school algebra classes which rely upon calculators for basic arithmetic. If we wish to prepare students for the jobs of the future, the budget would be better spent on a back-to-basics math program.

Contrary to Technology Director Michael Wagman's characterization of faculty as "on the fence," most with whom I have spoken are opposed. Step into middle or high school classrooms, and you will see no lack of technology. 

Many students spend class on their smartphones and school computers to virtually "pass notes" or watch YouTube videos. With an administration unwilling to ban personal electronics, teachers already feel disempowered by technology. 

Unless strictly managed, a One-to-One will exacerbate this already endemic problem.

Even if this program is necessary, Wagman's "Apple-or-Nothing" line spells a budgetary and IT maintenance nightmare. Apple makes excellent products, but iPad touchscreens are for media consumption, not typing book reports. While MacBooks at least have a keyboard, the brand and ultrathin form factor carries costs. 

Almost all software students use is web-based, leaving no reason besides personal taste for a commitment to this ecosystem. Cheap Windows or even Linux devices could handle these universal apps at a fraction of the cost. Thin-client solutions such as Chromebooks would save money with fewer IT problems. With everything in the cloud, there would be no erroneous saves to local storage on shared devices, nor "I left my laptop at home" excuses for missing homework. It would also enable easier control and monitoring of user activity, which is needed to combat in-class misuse and the district's recent internet-related scandals and fights.

The idea of enticing cyberschoolers (many of whom have compelling reasons for not attending regular school) with electronic bells and whistles, leaves me questioning not only proponents' sense of reason but their motives. 

Based on my personal experiences, I have grave doubts this proposal will benefit teachers, students, or taxpayers. 

I encourage those teachers grumbling behind closed doors but resigned to this decision as a fait accompli to publicly speak out.

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Every Penny Counts

June 6, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Photo Courtesy of John Armato Diana Dotterer's fourth grade class were the top fundraisers.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pottstown School District

When it comes to fundraising, every penny truly counts. 

The students and staff at Rupert Elementary School recently proved that when they took part in the annual Leukemia and Lymphoma Society “Pennies for Patients” fundraising campaign. 

Because of their efforts and understanding the value of every penny, their initial goal of raising $500.00 was far exceeded as the grand total read $1,222.62.

Fourth grade students in Diana Dotterer’s class earned the honors of raising the highest grade
total with $189.70. 

They were recognized with a bronze pennant to display in their classroom and a pizza party. 

Three other classes were able to exceed the $100 donation mark and received bronze pennants.

They included Shannon Wagner’s first grade class, Mrs. Jacinda Bartolucci’s kindergarten students, and Susan Paravis’ second graders.

The total team effort of all students and staff at Rupert Elementary School earned them special recognition by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society with a gift card to purchase needed school supplies from Becker School Supplies. 

The fundraising efforts were organized by Rupert nurses Melissa Scaltrito and Dawn Hankins.

 “We all feel very proud of ourselves because with every penny, nickel, dime, quarter and dollar that was donated we helped save lives of cancer patients.," said Rupert Principal Matt Moywer. "The efforts of our students and staff far exceeded my expectations and are a fantastic result and testament to the fact that we care about our fellow man and are willing to help ensure better lives for our neighbors.”

Gateway to College

June 8, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Eight students recently graduated from high school through Montgomery County Community College’s Gateway to College program. Pictured are (first row, from left) College President Dr. Karen A. Stout; Gateway Director Keima Sheriff; graduates Ne’Cole Casalena, Erika Knappenberger, Meghan Benson and Rachel Voltz; Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Dr. Kathrine Swanson; (second row, from left) Resource Specialist Lori Davidson; graduates Justin Leamy, Carlas Rich and James Hanible; and Resource Specialist Esau Collins. Photo by Sandi Yanisko

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by Montgomery County Community College.

Eight students from Montgomery County Community College’s (MCCC) Gateway to College Program earned their high school diplomas this spring after completing the requirements necessary to graduate from their respective school districts.

Gateway to College is a national network designed for young adults ages 16-21 who are at risk for not completing high school. One of only 43 Gateway to College programs in the country, MCCC partners locally with 16 area school districts and the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board (WIB) to help increase high school—and ultimately college—graduation rates.

Spring 2014 graduates include Meghan Benson, Wissahickon; Ne’Cole Casalena, Phoenixville; James Hanible, Pottsgrove; Erika Knappenberger, Souderton; Justin Leamy, Pottsgrove; Jose Ortiz Rivera, Hatboro-Horsham; Carlas Rich, Phoenixville; and Rachel Voltz, Upper Merion. All of the graduates plan to pursue post-secondary education, and at least six will attend MCCC in the fall.

One of those graduates, Ne’Cole Casalena, Phoenixville High School, described her journey in rhyming lyrics, speaking as class valedictorian.

“And I want to thank everyone but me, cause without you, I don’t know where I would be. Where I am, as a person, they are life lessons, not a burden…If I could, I wouldn’t change a thing, cause out of 18 years, this was the best spring,” she recited.

In only its first year at MCCC, the Gateway to College program has grown from 21 students in the fall to 52 this spring. At full capacity, the program will serve up to 150 students annually.

“My Gateway students are some of the most resilient and capable young people I have had the pleasure of supporting on their academic journey,” shared Keima Sheriff, who is MCCC’s Gateway to College program director. “Many are faced with incredibly difficult life circumstances, yet they consistently attend school, participate in a rigorous learning environment and meet the expectations of the program. My students prove that if given the opportunity to excel, they can and will rise to the occasion.”

Fifteen of MCCC’s students were recognized as Gateway Achievers by the Gateway to College National Network. Students include: Jose Ortiz Rivera from Hatboro-Horsham; Gustavo Ascencion from Norristown; Ne’Cole Casalena and Laura Krueger from Phoenixville; Brianna Gagliardi, Marcus Gordon and Anthony Romano from Pottsgrove; James Hanible from Upper Merion; Christopher Anderson, Shane Bowman, Jelani Crosby and William Dobnak from Upper Moreland; Shaquilla Anderson from WIB; and Meghan Benson and Emahnie Holmes from Wissahickon.

MCCC also recognized spring Gateway students for their achievements.

William Dobnak, Upper Moreland, and Laura Krueger, Phoenixville, were recognized as Foundation (first term) Students of the Semester. They also earned the highest GPA among MCCC Gateway students along with Jelani Crosby, Upper Moreland.

Marcus Gordon, Pottsgrove, and Rachel Voltz, Upper Merion, were recognized as Transitioned (second term through completion) Students of the Semester.

Perfect Attendance went to Shane Bowman, Upper Moreland; Anthony Romano, Pottsgrove; and Thomas Rosa, of Plymouth Meeting. Rosa was also recognized as Most Courageous, along with Paige Trump, Pottsgrove. Romano was recognized for Change of Heart, along with Jose Ortiz Rivera, Hatboro-Horsham.

Brianna Gagliardi, Pottsgrove, and Julian Richardson, WIB, earned Most Improved, while Amber Keyes, Norristown, and Faith Owens, Pottsgrove, earned Rising Star awards.

Additional awards included Perseverance, given to Nicole Snyder, Upper Moreland, and Dejah McMillan, Pottsgrove; and Most Determined, given to Gustavo Ascencion, Norristown, and Keara Hyden, Phoenixville.

Students begin the Gateway to College program with a Foundation semester, during which they take classes in reading, writing, math, and college skills as part of small learning communities. 

After successfully completing the Foundation term, participants transition into one of MCCC’s academic programs, earning college credits while completing high school requirements. Throughout the program, students are advised and mentored by Gateway resource specialists Lori Davidson and Esau Collins. They also actively engage in college and community service.

Partnering school districts include Boyertown, Cheltenham, Daniel Boone, Hatboro-Horsham, Norristown, Perkiomen Valley, Phoenixville, Pottsgrove, Pottstown, Souderton, Spring Ford, Upper Dublin, Upper Merion, Upper Moreland, Upper Perkiomen, Wissahickon and the Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board.

To learn more about the Gateway to College Network, visit gatewaytocollege.org.

Crime and Protest

June 9, 2014, 9:02 pm

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Photo by Evan Brandt and his trusty iPhone Protesters hold signs calling for the ouster of Pottstown Council President  Stephen Toroney prior to Monday's council meeting. Toroney declined their inviation.

Blogger's Note:What follows are Tweets and Touts (and one YouTube video) from last night's borough council meeting and the protest (vigil if you will) that proceeded it.

Rather than put it all chronologically, I have grouped the first set of items, about the crime and the protest, all together to make it easier to follow.

Other council business appears at the end.

As always, click the blue bar at the bottom to make sure you get it all:

Refusing to Live in Fear, A Valuable Lesson

June 10, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Photo by Evan Brandt Kids made up a sizable portion of the marchers during Tuesday's anti-violence march.

Feeling safe.

In the end, that's a basic need we all crave, but it is being denied to people who live in the central core of Pottstown and not because of anything they've done.

It is no accident that so many of those who marched in the humidity against violence Tuesday were children.

For in many ways, they are the ones most at risk, and not just physically.

To be sure, there is physical risk, as there is in just walking out your front door every morning.

But not too many of us have to worry about being hit, or our children being hit, by a stray bullet.

And even if no child gets hit this summer (from my keyboard to God's ears), those children will still have been hurt.

Their sense of security, so vital to the growth of a healthy psyche, will have been undermined.

They can't feel safe going out their back door and play in the yard; they can't feel safe going to the playground and, perhaps worst of all, they can't feel safe walking to school.

How can we expect this next generation to deal with the mountain of problems we're leaving them if we can't even give them a feeling of safety in their childhoods?

For what its worth, I'm glad these adults got together and got their children involved with marching; showed them that you can refuse to accept a life, or even a summer, of gnawing fear.

Do I think marching will stop crime?

No, although I hope it curtails it somewhat.

Does that mean its not worth doing?

No.

If for no other reason, its worth doing to show your children how you stand up to fear, face it head on and take what action what you can.


Kenya Edwards gets it.

No sooner had I typed the sentence above then I checked The Mercury's too-often volatile Facebook page to see if any of the commenters were getting out of hand under the story I posted after the march.

This is what she wrote in reply to one of them:

"Those kids were taught that they matter and their voice is worth being heard. I pray when they grow up they look at this march, and know that they can Ace that Test, they can get into that college that they may have thought was so far out of their reach, and they will not stand by and let ANYONE tell them their dreams are unreachable."

Below are the Tweets and Tout from our live coverage of Tuesday's march.

The Grass is Always Greener

June 11, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note:The following was provided by Pottstown Borough.

The Borough of Pottstown is pleased to announce the grand opening of Manatawny Green, Pottstown’s own miniature golf course, located at 71 West High Street, on Friday, June 13.

Manatawny Green offers 18 holes and is ADA accessible.

The facility will be open seasonally, Tuesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

Check out our concession stand for snacks and beverages, featuring Nelson’s Ice Cream and Berks Hot Dogs. 

Plenty of parking is available on both King and West and High Streets.

Manatawny Green has transformed a formerly vacant industrial property into a green gateway, providing a vital link between multiple recreation and cultural amenities in the Borough of Pottstown.

Situated along the banks of the Manatawny Creek, Manatawny Green is a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly destination. 

Visitors can bike the Schuylkill River Trail north to Manatawny Green, play a round of mini golf, and enjoy the nearby Pottsgrove Manor, Memorial Park, and downtown Pottstown.

Michael Lenhart, Director of Parks and Recreation, describes Manatawny Green as a “fun-filled family friendly experience offering a unique recreational opportunity showcasing the best that Pottstown has to offer.”

Borough Manager Mark Flanders said “this has been a long journey from concept to reality,” and added that he is “excited that the efforts of many have come together.” 

“Manatawny Green has finally come to fruition,” he said.

The project was made possible through the generous support of Montgomery County’s Open Space Program, the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation, and the PECO Green Region Program.

A Valedictory Message from The Shire

June 12, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Mercury Photo by John Strickler Pottstown High School's 2014 Valedictorian Nicole Grassi gives her speech.

Blogger's Note: Wednesday night was Pottstown High School's graduation ceremony. What follows here is the speech given by the 2014 Valedictorian, Nicole Grassi.

I want to speak to you today about a man -- but he isn’t a man, really; he’s a relative of man in a smaller package. I hope at least some of you know who I’m talking about. 

His name is Bilbo Baggins, and for those who don't know, he is a hobbit with adventure in his blood who accepts the opportunity to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their treasure from a dragon.

In the beginning, Gandalf, the wizard, says: "I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it's very difficult to find anyone." 

Graduates, don’t be just another person afraid to say ‘yes’ to adventure. Had Bilbo refused to go as he was so inclined to do, he may have lived in comfort, just like everyone else, but he wouldn’t have done anything. 

He would have been an average hobbit with hobbit friends and a normal hobbit life.

But Bilbo said yes. 

Bilbo said yes to the adventure and he gained friends because of it. He gained friends, he gained wealth, and upon returning, he was much happier. 

So graduates, say yes when adventure knocks on your door. You don’t have to settle for being average.

Dust jacket from the first edition of The Hobbit.

While on their quest, Thorin, leader of the dwarves, tells the young dwarves: “There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something.” 

Not every adventure and opportunity will knock on your front door; sometimes, you need to find them yourself. 

If you want scholarships, look for them. 

If you want a job, look for one. 

If you want happiness or love or more friends, you need to get off your couch and look. 

None of these things are going to come to you without any effort on your part.

When their quest finally leads them to Lonely mountain where the dragon resides, Bilbo creeps down into the mountain and talks to Smaug, the dragon. 

It was at the end of this conversation, as he ran back up the slope inside the mountain with flames chasing him, that Bilbo said: “Never laugh at live dragons, Bilbo, you fool!” 

So graduates, don’t laugh at live dragons, either. Danger is danger, and it’s best not to underestimate it. 

Be safe and be wise on your adventures.

Towards the end of the book, Thorin said to Bilbo: "If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world." 

He, of course, refers to the dwarves’ greed and Bilbo’s immunity to that greed. Greed led them to war, while all Bilbow anted to do was settle the conflict amicably. 

We could all take a lesson from Bilbo here: money isn’t everything. 

The dwarves went on a quest because of money; they went to war because of money (and a troll invasion); and people, elves, dwarves, and others died because of money.

And why? Life isn’t supposed to be about how much money you have. It’s supposed to be about what makes you happy. 

Why spend so much of your life motivated by money and wealth that you forget to actually enjoy yourself? Why can’t beings learn to just be happy?

Mercury Photo by John Strickler Among the teenagers receiving their diplomas Wednesday was one of the biggest teenagers I know, John Armato, who received an  honorary diploma, an honor well-deserved and  one which I know he appreciates deeply. Congratulations Mr. Armato.

Gandalf once said to Bilbo, “Home is now behind you; the world is ahead!”

Pottstown High School has become our home over these four years, but with this ceremony and our diplomas, we will be stepping out of our front door into our next adventure. The world is truly ahead of us, whether it’s in the form of college, the workforce, or the armed services.

I would like to leave you with one last quote from Mr. Bilbo Baggins that I hope we will all take to heart tonight: “‘Go back?’ he thought. ‘No good at all! 

Go sideways? Impossible!

Go forward? Only thing to do! On we go!’" 

As students, we cannot go back; we cannot go sideways; we can only move forward into our future, and that begins tonight.

(If you would like to see a slide show of more than 150 photos from Wednesday night's graduation, click here for photos by Mercury Photographer (and PHS alum) John Strickler.)

Pottsgrove Senior Wins $10,000 Arts Scholarship

June 13, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Scholarship winner Jaid Mark with her work, "Her Flaws."

Blogger's Note:The following was provided by ArtFusion 19464.

On Saturday, May 31, the Greater Pottstown Foundation awarded a $10,000 scholarship to Jaid Mark, a Pottsgrove High School senior.

"Selfless" by Jaid Mark.

Jaid is the 2014 winner of The Greater Pottstown Foundation Scholarship for the Arts, which is designed to financially assist a local high school senior in obtaining a degree from accredited academic institutions of higher learning for study in the arts.

Jaid will be attending Philadelphia University this fall to pursue a degree in art therapy. 

Cynthia Scherer, her high school art teacher, said “this young lady has a wonderful work ethic, a motivational spirit that influences others and creativity which will help her to excel in her college endeavor.”

The scholarship was awarded based on an essay and on artwork that Jaid created for a show currently on display at ArtFusion 19464. 

"Siblings" by Jaid Mark.

The three pieces she entered into the competition will become part of the foundation’s permanent collection. This is the fourth year that ArtFusion has partnered with the foundation to present this scholarship.

The show will be on display at ArtFusion through June 14 and can be seen any time during normal gallery hours: Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

ArtFusion is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

ArtFusion 19464 is a 501(c)3 non-profit community art center located at 254 E. High St. in downtown Pottstown. 

The school offers day, evening and weekend classes to all ages. The goal of these classes is to help students develop their creative skills through self-expression and independence. 

ArtFusion’s gallery hosts rotating shows featuring local artists. The gallery also sells handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gift items. 

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It's Never Too Late for Education

June 14, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: West Pottsgrove Community Day

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GED graduates stand with faculty, staff and community supporters.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by Montgomery County Community College.

Forty-five students earned their General Education Diplomas (GED) during Montgomery County Community College’s annual graduation ceremony on June 5 at the West Campus in Pottstown.

The graduates were part of MCCC’s rigorous five-week program that is among the most accelerated in the state. 

According to GED Program Coordinator/Instructor Raymond Ricketts, 860 students have completed the program since its inception in 2006–an 84 percent graduation rate. 

Student speaker Jamie Gehman, a Lower Pottsgrove resident,  addresses her fellow graduates

The Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board (WIB) funds the program, which is free to Montgomery County residents. 

The fee for out-of-county students is $100 and includes the course and GED exam. 

John Vestri, vice president of operations and finance for Video Ray in Pottstown, provided the keynote address. 

He commended graduates for taking ownership of their education, and encouraged them to take advantage of all future educational opportunities that arise. 

“Every single you chance you have to improve yourself through education, please take advantage of it. It will pay off in some way in the long run,” said Vestri. 

He added that there is “no such thing as a traditional education,” sharing “we all pursue what works for us; everyone is on some non-traditional path.” 

Providing the student address, graduate Jamie Gehman, Lower Pottsgrove, said the program “allowed me to focus on my problem area—math—and pass the GED with flying colors.” 

Gehman described how it became more and more difficult to return to school as time passed. 

However, as her youngest of four children started kindergarten this year, she realized it was time to continue her own education as well. 

“It’s never too late to give yourself or your loved ones a brighter future through education,” she shared. 

Gehman recently completed her first semester at the College, during which she earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average (GPA). She ultimately hopes to work with children who have learning challenges and brain trauma. 

Marisol Lezcano, executive director of the Montgomery County WIB and deputy director of commerce, presented the graduates with their diplomas, and Peggy Schmidt, chair, WIB Youth Council, provided closing remarks. 

“I’m sure, as you have gone through this journey, people told you that you couldn’t do it. But your hard work paid off,” she said, just before asking attendees to join her in reciting the lyrics to “High Hopes.” 

To learn more about the GED program or GED testing services, visit mc3.edu/adm-fin-aid/ged.

West Pottsgrove Community Day

June 15, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Fun in the Sun

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West Pottsgrove Township will hold a Community Day on Saturday, June 21 at the community pool on 953 Von Steuben Dr.

Admission to the pool will cost only $1, with $1 burgers, $1 hot dogs and $1 drinks.

There will be displays from the police and fire departments, community organizations, DJ entertainment and games all day and the community band will perform from 4 to 5 p.m.

There will also be a flea market and yard sale area available for a $5 donation, although you must bring your own table.

For more information, contact the township office at 610-323-7717.

Fun in the Sun

June 16, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note: The following was provided by Pottstown Middle School

Pottstown Middle School fifth grade students took a break from their regular academic classroom subjects to take part in an afternoon of physical activities designed to challenge their agility, stamina, and ability to work as a team. 

There was a home-run derby.

The program was organized and designed by fifth grade teachers Mike DiDonato and Mandy Langdon.

The students participated in the activities held in the school district stadium. 

They took part in the standard outdoor activities such as the 50 yard dash, baton relay race, and long jump. 

They were challenged with new activities such as the fastest draw in the west which challenged students to gain possession of flags that each student was issued. 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you ... Frisbee."

Field events included a home run derby, sack race, tug of war, football toss, and soccer goal kick. 

DiDonato said, “These activities are all part of our school district-wide energizer activities - the goal of which are to help stimulate students’ academic progress.”

As the afternoon wore on, students enjoyed a refreshing sponge and pool relay race and all received popsicles to refresh them.

Mrs. Langdon said, “I am proud to have members of our Centurion Club assist in the organization and administration of these games. Without their help, we would not have been able to have these activities.”

“Our students have benefited greatly this year from our school district’s emphasis on understanding the relationship between healthy bodies and healthy minds,” said Principal Matt Boyer.

Fun in the sack.

Flag-Waving Fun at Star-Spangled Sunnybrook

June 17, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Blogger's Note:The following was provided by the Sunnybrook Ballroom.

Kick-off your July 4th week family celebration at the historic SunnyBrook Ballroom.

Use the courts to play some basketball and volleyball. 

Play a game of horseshoes. 

Have an All-American hotdog or hamburger from the outside grill. 

(Bring and display your classic or vintage car and receive a free sandwich.) 

The fun starts at noon. Then, at 2 p.m. join the crowd in the ballroom for a rousing flag-waving (flag provided) concert of patriotic music with an area favorite the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit. 

Tickets for the concert are $10; children 6-12 $5; children under 6 are free. 

 Tickets can be purchased on our website at www.thesunnybrookballroom.net.

The Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit formed in 1976 as an all-volunteer, family oriented marching unit. From its first performance in the nation’s Bicentennial Celebration to its latest concert the band has been active throughout the northeast.

More about the band: http://bamu.webs.com

Formed in 2004 to save the historic 20,000 square foot ballroom from the wrecking ball, the SunnyBrook Foundation operates the venue as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. 

Reopened in 2008 as an entertainment venue through the work of scores of community volunteers, the facility’s fine dining restaurant and Chummy’s Lounge reopened in 2011. 

During the heyday of big band music, the historic ballroom was a regular stop on the tours of all of the era’s big bands. Benny Goodman, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra are just a few of the names of nationally known performers who filled the room with the music of the era.

The venue continues to host community meetings, political rallies, weddings, wedding receptions, class and family reunions, high school proms, and other events.

Girls on the Run

June 18, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Tax Hikes and Raises in Pottstown Schools

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Barth's Girls on the Run after the race at Wissahickon High School.

Blogger's Note:The following was provided by Barth Elementary School

How many third and fourth grade girls do you know who would spend 12 weeks training so they could run in a 3.1 mile race?

At Barth Elementary School, the count is 22 students who took part in the “Girls On The Run” program.

GOTR is designed to allow every girl to recognize her inner strength. 

The Girls On The Run curriculum inspires girls to define their lives on their own terms. 

Barth's Ariana Torres is having fun on the run.

Throughout the season, the girls make new friends, build their confidence, and celebrate all that makes them unique.

High school guidance counselor Sarah Blaum, who is one of the program organizer, said, “The girls are learning to work together to help and support each other, to listen to their own bodies, and to listen to their coaches but most importantly to believe in themselves.”

“The 12 week program has three purposes which include life skill lessons, community service projects, and training for the 5K race,” said Barth Principal Ryan Oxenford.

The program was supported through generous donations by grant funding from different sources that included the Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation, First Presbyterian Church, and Chester County Running Store. 

Blaum said, “Our parents have been so supportive in helping with transportation issues for the girls after practice. This truly has been a collaborative effort of GOTR staff, community members, Pottstown School District staff, parents, and students.”

One parent noted the positive difference that participation in the program has provided when she said, “I’m so amazed with this awesome program. I have never seen my daughter so ambitious about something. She strives for perfection in almost everything she does and this program is teaching her so much it’s beautiful to see.”

On a sunny spring day in May the 22 girls, along with their coaches and volunteers, participated in the 3.1 mile race held at Wissahickon High School. The event, which attracted over 1800 participants from across Montgomery and Delaware counties, was the final chapter in the girls’ journey. 

The lessons the girls learned helped them not only complete the race but realize their potential as leaders in the classroom and the community.

Barth Elementary School was the scene of an afterschool celebration attended by all of the girls, their coaches, family members, and supporters. The girls received certificates and a personalized school bag with a journal and pictures of each of them participating in the program.

Oxenford said, “This program has enabled these young ladies to realize the potential they have to be successful through individual effort and teamwork. I am proud of them and appreciate the many volunteer coaches who helped to make this program a success.”

Volunteer coaches included: Sarah Blaum – PHS; Sarah Paul –Barth; Rachel Pollock – Barth; Mary Anderson – Barth; Jennifer Burkholder – Barth; Matthea Mazzie – Barth; Ashley Lanyon – Barth volunteer; Megan Walsh – Barth volunteer; Helen Bowers – PHS; and Melissa Schubert – PHS.

Participants included: Amber Adamski, Gianna Allen, Jenia Brown, Khaia Burgess, Mia Caballero-Vega, Josie Chladek, Hannah Jane Daniels, Margaret DiPietro, Lily Fetterman, Sanai Greene-Brinkley, Jazmin Gulick, Brianna Higgins, Makenzie Johnson, Aniyah Jones, Chasey Jules, Kylee Kennon, Jocelyn Malauulu, Mackenzie Moser, Kira Rodriguez, Ariana Torres, Chakae Tinson, and Oralee Wilson.