New Tenant to Occupy former Citi Bank Building?

Former Citi Bank Building on Baltimore Ave (behind Trader Joe's)

The Citi Bank building vacated in March may have a new tenant soon, and guess what?  It's a bank! Not a new bank, but one I'm told that will be moving from State Street to this custom made structure Citi Bank had built when they first moved in.  Part of the draw is the drive-thru window that no bank on State Street has other than Bryn Mawr Trust.

It's a nice looking building with parking and easy in and out access to Baltimore Ave.

Congratulation to the Media Rugby U13 State Champs

With Media Little League being State Champs last year and now Media Rugby joining the club, this town is becoming known for excellence.  Congratulation to the Media Rugby U13 for being Media's latest state champions.

2013 State Champoins

Media in Two Minutes

First thing first, thank you to those who stop me on the street to say how much they like this blog.  I really appreciate that and hope it provides a decent insight to what goes on in this town.  As for my poor attempts at humor?  Hey, how else can I have fun on here.  Ha!

A special thanks to the gentleman who moved to Media from NJ.  He likes the blog and told me it keeps him up to date.  Thanks!

A very special birthday wish to a distinguished guest who was out celebrating her big day on State Street last night.  Her friend (T) caught me walking by and wanted to make sure I made the announcement!  She could have celebrated anywhere, but chose Media!  That's my point with all of this, when people get enthusiastic about the town they live in, great things WILL HAPPEN!  I won't divulge the names, but they know who they are.  Thanks and Happy Birthday.

Ok, let's go.

Starbucks Gets Makeover!

I'm hear at Starbucks today writing this addition.  I really like the new layout: granite counter tops, stools and power strips for electronic devices.  The flow seems to have improved too.  It's got a "on-the-go" kind of feel, but bodes well if you need an hour to two to work on a computer.  

As I look out the window across the street, I see the vacant Nova Bank building that looks like it was built for a Starbucks.  Plenty of parking over there and a drive-thru window to boot!  Maybe someday.

Media's Newest Hotel is in Springfield.

I'm very intrigued with the hotel being built in Springfield.  It's coming a long nicely and will be more of a resort than generic hotel.   Banquet facilities, restaurant, golf course and leisurely area that'll include an outside patio with fire pits (atleast in the sketches).  It looks like it will also satisfy a need for Swarthmore College and the families coming in to visit the school and students.

The reason why Media's hotel or the proposed condos on Edgmont and Jefferson haven't started, isn't because there's a pile of cash laying around and someone forgot to give the word "GO" It's because of just that, MONEY!  Seven years ago financing was a lot easier than it is now.

Cool Spot of the Week: Rushton Farm

As they say at Nikki Beach in St. Tropez, "only tell your best friends!"  Well, for Rushton Farm, which sells freshly grown produce, the secret is out and tell everyone.  They are not fully functional for the season yet, but will be in a few weeks.  Come on out and help an actual working co-op farm.  They will have a lot of great stuff here and it's easy to get to.

What's going on at Edgmont's Army Reserve Center?

There's quite a big military facility that sits on the northern end of Edgmont Township.  It's off of Delchester Road and sits back from West Chester Pike.  You wouldn't notice anything peculiar about this site other than the Bell Huey helicopter that sits out front for display.  Interesting enough, this was a former Nike missile site that was setup during the 1950's.  The missiles have long been removed, but remnants of the concrete radar platforms still exist.

Anyway, there is new construction going on at this site.  Looks like they are clearing a field for a new building.  It's very well secured, so I couldn't get in, but I'll ask around to see what I can find out.  I did get some photos which I'll share in a later post.

Delaware County's Walk for the Wounded

This was the best thing I did all weekend.  I got some time to spend with veterans and hear their stories as they shared their knowledge on a host of experiences.  There were displays of cars, motocycles, military vehicles and a helicopter that you could climb into to get a real-life understanding of what the experience was about.

It was great to see the unity and appreciation from all areas of Delaware County.  To our Vets!  Thank You!

Comments on ATM

Thousands of people don't read this blog each week because I talk about unicorns and the flavor of the month coffee.  Media, like any town has its problems.  If you like my perspective on things great, if not, leave a comment.  I post them, there's no shortage of shots against me on here.  That's fine, at least you're sharing  in the passion for your town.  Or, if you prefer as does my biggest critic Bill does, you can cuss me out on State Street.  Just at least let me first put cream and sugar in my cup of coffee before you start in on me. (atleast Bill and I can agree on that)

Skate Board Fines

The skateboarders of Media and their families have united.  People are fired up about the fines and ordinances skateboarders are receiving in Media.  so I've agreed to meet with them as a group to see what can be worked out.  Thanks to those who personally reached out to me over this.  In the next coming weeks, we will setup a meeting and go from there.

Borough Hall for Sale?

Last year someone put Media Borough Council up for sale on Craig's list.  There were not takers.  However, a "For Sale" sign on borough hall spotted yesterday ironically says it all.  Maybe Mayor McMahon and Borough Council paying $20,000 for a poorly made, celebrity voice over video was the last straw.   Or was is the millions in cost overruns that the Third Street Bridge has incurred due to 18 years or lack of leadership.

Does it come with Media's Borough Council?

SOLD OUT - Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival Saturday, May 18, 1–5 pm

If you've already gotten your tickets for today's Brandywine Valley Craft Brewers Festival, consider yourself lucky - It's Sold Out.   That's not really surprising as this sells out every year.  The reason being, it's one of the best events around and marks the prelude to the kick-off of Summer.  

With beer samples provided by 25 local/regional breweries, the price of admission ($45) is a pretty good deal.  With the proceeds going to the Media Youth Center, it makes the day even better.  This event has been hosted for over 10 years and is close, based on my calculations, to be near or over $100,000 in proceeds raised.  Raising money for the community while you drink beer? Wow!  Could it be any better?

Today's weather looks perfect for the event, but it's not just isolated to Iron Hill's parking lot.  During this brewfest a lot of people come to Media and mingle in the many bars up and down State Street.  With Quotations Bar, who has one of the finest selections of beer around, and John's Bar and Grille,  which extrudes authenticity; the whole town becomes a mini-brewfest.  Crowds also drift up  towards Media's "Brick Beach" the Plumstead Inn and over to Sligo's before early evening.

Have a great time.  Enjoy!  I'll see if I can get a few pictures later today.

Here's what's on Tap for Today's Event:
Appalachian Brewing Company - Harrisburg, PA
Bethlehem (Fegley's) Brew Works - Bethlehem, PA
Flying Fish Brewing Company - Cherry Hill, NJ
Lancaster Brewing Company - Lancaster, PA
Old Forge Brewing Company - Danville, PA
Prism Brewing Company - North Wales, PA
Rock Bottom Brewery - King of Prussia, PA
Round Guys Brewery - Lansdale, PA
Ship Bottom Brewery - Ship Bottom, NJ
Sly Fox Brewhouse and Eatery - Phoenixville, PA
Stewart's Brewing Company - Bear, DE
Stoudt's Brewing Company - Adamstown, PA
Tired Hands Brewing Company - Ardmore, PA
Triumph Brewing Company - Philadelphia, PA
Troegs Brewery - Harrisburg, PA
Twin Lakes Brewing Company - Greenville, DE
Victory Brewing Company - Downingtown, PA
Weyerbacher Brewing Company - Easton, PA
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant - Chestnut Hill, Lancaster, Maple Shade, Media, Newark, North Wales, Phoenixville, West Chester and Wilmington

Video: Media gets scammed $20,000 for celebrity voice over video.

Had I been at last night's council meeting where they showed a video about Media narrated by Terry Bradshaw, I would have demanded our money back right on the spot.  This is the 4:19 minute video that took 10 months to produce at a cost to Media Taxpayers of $20,000.  At that much money, this is nothing more than a scam by a celebrity voice over.  Interesting enough, the company who produced it WAS investigated and fined by the Florida Attorney General for just that.  Mayor McMahon and Brian Hall didn't know that until it was brought to their attention last year, yet they still proceeded with this video while not placing it out to bid which they should have been required to.  They got caught in a classic sales pitch by nothing more than a telemarketer making cold calls.

There are many companies in the area that could have done a better job, much sooner and for a lot less money.  Truthfully, any kid in high school with a three year old computer could have done a better job.  As for this being showed nationally?  Good luck!  Check out the limited airings and times this clip is expected to be played.

This deal wasn't about Media, it was about Mayor Bob McMahon marketing himself at our expense.  Media Borough owes this community an explanation.  As a taxpayer, Media should demand it's money back!

Chairman of the Troubled Media Business Authority Resigns

This week I learned that the chair of the Media Business Authority, Kevin Schramm has resigned from his position.  I didn't know Kevin well, but I've always heard great things about his vision and leadership he had with the group of volunteers that oversaw the well being of Media's businesses.  Unfortunately, this resignation adds to a long list of concerns that has plagued this committee.

Media Business Auth. board members run for the exits.

It's a well known and openly discussed that members of this group resign due to the over-shawdowing politics of Media Borough Council.  For example, The MBA supports a new Wawa, Borough Council doesn't -  So who do you think will win that one?  This committee barely holds a quorum of operational members because many people who volunteer for this group are typically fed up after only a few months due to lack of results and impact.  It's often referred to as a waste of time.  Let's get real, that's not how you run a committe that's responsible for the vibrancy of Media Businesses and receives over $75,000 yearly in taxpayer money.

Furthermore, it's  been so mismanged by Media Borough Council, that even liason and councilman, Eric Stein failed to show up for half the meetings over a two year span.  Yet he was re-appointed.  At one point he missed 7 consecutive meetings!  If he shows no interest, why should anyone else? What's worse is that partners who once supported this committee with funding, are no longer involved.  Case in point, is the withdraw of the Brandywine Convention and VIsitors Bureau who during 2011 contributed $20,000 to Media State Street events.  That's a $20,000 lost because people feel a lack of confidence in the abilities and execution of this authority.  It's too bad, as that year we had some of the best events I can remember in a long time, one of which was the classic car show.

May 2012 Meeting Minutes: Instead of Media Borough Council addressing this issue, they re-appointed their liaison, Eric Stein

The volunteers on this committee who put forth an effort in good faith for the community are the victims.  They deserve better, the businesses of Media deserve better and the taxpayers of this town are owed a explanation.  It's May, and they've not even posted meeting minutes for 2013!

Either dissolve the Media Business Authority and re-use the funding for other purposes or re-organize this group with a comprehensive top-to-bottom review.  What we have now have is an ineffective bureaucracy that can't manage itself, let alone the economic vibrancy of Media, Pa.

Tedman

What Will Happen to the Soon To Be Vacant Nativity School Building?

As things are shaping up, Media Elementary is on schedule to be back home on Monroe and State Street this Fall.  Not only did the temporary re-location over the last year at Nativity work out great, it was handled extremely well by Superintendent, Jim Wigo,  RTM School Board, teachers, faculty and students.  Nice Job, Everyone!

So as things get back to normal at Media Elementary, what'll happen with one of the biggest and soon to be vacant buildings in Media Borough?  That's a good question and one that will become more popular as the year goes on.  As it stands, there are discussions among Nativity's management committee taking place that will discuss this matter over the next few months.  I've reached out to people close to the matter and have heard there is a lot of discussion going on with some positive ideas.

This has a long way yet to go, but I'll share what I know as soon as further information is available. There are a lot of residents and homeowners interested in the future of this property, so I'll share what I know when details develop.

Help is Needed at Your Local Polling Places!

Polling Places Need Your Help!

If you have time to spare, please consider helping out at your local polling places for the upcoming primary on May 2st.  Each election cycle many of the polls are short staffed with workers who have to ensure the voting machines are working and voters are properly checked in.  It's a long day, but if more people participated by even spending a few hours, it would greatly help those who are there all day long.

Some of these positions are paid and training is provided.  If you'd like to be part of an important part of democracy, here's your chance. 

Media's Secret Skate Board Board Park.................AND BEYOND!

The skate board creed doesn't allow me to divulge the location of Media's impromptu skate board park, but I now know where it is.  In fact, I saw a parent drop their kid off there to partake in what looks like some of the best skating around.  As long as the kids are safe, having fun and not bothering anyone or damaging property; I'm fine with what they are doing.

Avalon NJ's Skate Park, Could Media Have one Too?

Now, aside from that location, there is another one I know the skaters like just as much.  This one is actually in Upper Providence and is located around Kirk Lane towards Providence Road.  You'll have to look hard to find it, but this area has curbs, long rides and some pretty smooth surfaces.  

I was recently in Avalon, NJ and saw a great setup for skate boarders.  I hear a park can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000, but it might be worth a quick call to Avalon Borough to find out. If it's on the lower side of my estimate, this wouldn't be that hard to do.  It would take time, but there could be a one or two places that could accommodate a park like this.  One is actually on borough property!

If the Mayor and Borough Council President, Brian Hall can spend $20,000 on a 5 minute informercial that no one saw, imagine putting that kind of money towards the youth of this town.

Get Those Bikes Tuned-Up! It's Bike to Work Day Friday, May 17th 8:30am

Media in Two Minutes - Happy Mother's Day Edition

What makes a community are the families!  And the backbone that makes that happen are all the great Mothers out there.  Happy Mothers day, especially to all the single mothers.  You women are the strongest beings to walk this earth. 
All my best, Tedman

Skunks, a bumper crop this year?

Spring is in the air and so is the all too familiar scent of Media's skunk population.  On particularly humid mornings, you can smell them in many parts of town.   Over the last few years Media has become popular with these night time drifters.  Make sure your garbage cans are secured, as nothing is more attractive to a skunk than a free breakfast, lunch and dinner.

No one know Delaware County like Keith Lockhart

Not only does Keith know every inch of Delaware County and the historic significance it's had on this area, but he usually has photos and memorabilia to prove it.  It you want to check out what this guy has....and he's got a lot; check out his profile this week in the Media Town Talk.  He's got a great website that'll keep you busy for hours.

Arasapha Farm - A Good Egg

As avid readers, I'm going to let you in on a some insider information I don't normally share.  For the best eggs and working farm experience around, it's Arasapha Farm.  Not only are the eggs they sell there great, but they have a self server booth where you can purchase eggs via the honor system.  You get your eggs from the refrigerator section and put your money in a lock box right above.  Correct change only.  Sure beats trying to park at a local food market.  Check them out, it's a neat experience.

Court Diner has a New(er) Menu

I try to get to each an every business in Media. It takes a lot longer than you think to cover that ground, but I eventually do.  I was pleasantly surprised to see a new menu at the Court Diner.  Not that the old one was bad, but this is nicely done and the food and service TOP NOTCH.  Jane our waitress was a bit taken back when I said, "New Menu?!" as it's been out for sometime, hence not so new for some, but "newer" for me. 

Biggest Story of the 2013 - Wawa's Newly Proposed Concept

Community Stands Strong Behind Media First

After years of disappointing leadership, it was actually nice to see people excited about what can be accomplished in this town when we work together.  I've been writing this blog for years and I've never experienced a reaction like the one Media First shared with a picture of the newly proposed Wawa concept.  For this community, it went VIRAL in a very positive way.  People were excited and interactively shared in a hope that great things can still happen here.  Kudos to the Media First Team for taking time to explain their position on this and other very important matters for 2013.

As for the so called "endorsed" candidates who claim, "Able, Patient, Responsible."  Ha!  I guess their first slogan "leadership that inspires our community" wasn't working out too well for them!

Wawa's Proposed Site for Media, Pa goes VIRAL

Have you Received a Campaign Cold Call From Media Mayor Bob McMahon?

Mayor McMahon, We'd like to know?

Mayor Bob McMahon is actively calling residents in the community trying to garner support for his re-election.  Do you think you'd hear from him any other time?  A few people have contacted me complaining about this, because he's also apparently asking about their party affiliation. 

If you receive a call make sure you ask him the following!  I'm sure the crafty non-answers will shock you.

• Media's Proposed Wawa Site: Is he for it or against it?
  
• Why as Mayor for 18 years hasn't he done anything to help Third Street Bridge?
  
• Why did it take 15 years to install synchronized traffic lights throughout Media?

• Why after 10 months haven't we seen the $20,000 5 minute video?  And why didn't he put this project out to bid when he knew the company he was dealing with was investigated and fined by the State Attorney General for fraudlent claims?

• What's his vision for this town? Does he even have one?
   

Don't Forget Bevan's Chocolate For Mother's Day!

They've been doing it for over 50 years!  No one knows Mother's Day like Bevan's Chocolate does.  Stop on by for locally made candy that that's always a hit!

Best Butter Creams around. Period.

New, One of a Kind Wawa Design Presented to Media, Pa

Wawa goes the extra mile with a new design made specifically for the proposed Media site. As shared by the Media First Team who are candidates running for Media borough council this May 21st; this concept shows a dedication towards this town with a one of a kind vision.

Would a Walgreens, which is a potential alternative for this site go to this length for Media? 

The future of this project will be decided at the polls on May 21st.  The Media First Team is looking to work with the community to make this project work, while supposedly the other four "endorsed" candidates have not even spoken about the issue, as they are against it.

Penncrest Ranks as One of America's Best High Schools

Newsweek ranks Penncrest as one of the top high schools in the country.  Nice job by the students, teachers, faculty and school board for making education 

a priority for our communities!

Penncrest Makes Newsweek's Ranking as One of America's Best High Schools!