Jim Cunningham, The People's Councilman

Media resident, Michael Jordan writes in today's Delcotimes about the leadership and service provided by Borough Councilman, Jim Cunningham.

Jim was old-school, always putting the residents needs over party alliances. Holding office for him was a public trust, never tinged with ulterior motives.

No one knows — or knew — more Media residents, past and present, and their needs. A virtual archive of Media’s history he embodies.

A stickler for good conduct in local government, he fought for stronger ethical standards. With a watchful eye on government finances, he make sure no one was picking the pockets of Media’s taxpayers.

Jim stood up for what he believed in and voted on behalf of the communitiy, not a political motive.

Eight Accomplishments that Improved Media, PA

For the first time in 28 years, there is truly a bi-partisan council setting aside a political agenda and doing what is right by the borough, its residents and businesses. Both parties, on a national level, promised change and an ability to reach across the aisle; but have fallen short.  People I've talked to going door-to-door tell me this is a major concern of theirs, as they're fed up with the non-sense. Here in Media, we had a different outcome.  With the cooperation of two democrats and two republicans last year, council showed that not only can it work together, but it also can deliver much needed results that haven't been seen in a decade. Leadership matters and so do the results our elected officials are committed to. As a candidate, I would encourage all voters to consider this year's accomplishments, the integrity of the candidates (Pete and Toni) and the commitment we have towards open, honest leadership that will continue to make Media a better place for all. Know this, at the end of the day, it’s the community that benefits from every one's great accomplishments, not a political party. Tedman

The Hometown Team :

Pete Alyanakian, Toni Cavanagh DiMonte, Tedman O'Hara

In 2011, Media Borough Council has never worked harder and here are the Eight Major Achievements to prove it.

1. Bipartisanship: After 28 years of one party majority rule, borough council voted to make changes to better position council to deal with issues that have been neglected for years. Despite early criticism by opponents questioning the new leadership and change, the results have been historical.
2. 3rd St. Bridge Lawsuit:  Over a decade had passed before a council president could resolve the lawsuits that prevented Media Borough from addressing the repair of the bridge.   The bipartisan cooperation, led by Council President, Pete Alyanakian (R) and Vice President Monika Rehoric (D) resolved this issue within 9 months!!!!!!!!
3. 3rd St. Bridge Finance and Taxpayer advocacy:  
   Closed by the PA DEP in 1996 this project has cost over $330,000 tax dollars through legal and engineering fees.  The bipartisan council has applied for and received a grant for $75,000 from the county to help offset the design cost. In addition, President, Pete Alyanakian authorized council to apply for a state grant which was recently awarded for $650,000.

   He is the only council president who has applied for any additional funds since 1996. 
4. Defeating Political Cronyism: This March, bi-partisanship put an end to the political cronyism that was going on between the former Borough Engineer (aka Chair of the Brookhaven Democrats) and the Media Democratic Party, who hired him.  The engineer received a $250,000 no bid contract (CMAQ) and $100,000 in fees for a closed bridge from the former, Media borough democratic majority.  In return, the engineer contributed  thousands of dollars over the years in political contributions to fund their campaigns. Once defeated, the 3rd St. bridge was resolved within the year. This could not have been addressed without a bi-partisanship change.
5. Sale of 1 West State St.:  After two failed restaurants and  rejecting a $1,000,000 bid by the former democratic majority, Pete Alyanakian and the bipartisan coalition accepted the highest bid of $670,000 this year for  the sale of 1 West State Street (Brodeur's)
6. Funding for Media Events: Showing confidence in Media's new leadership, Brandywine CVB, a primary sponsor for MBA events, added $20,000 in new funds this year to help make our street events bigger and better in 2011.
7. CMAQ: (Congestion Mitigation Air Quality) Project awarded in 1999, is now on schedule to be finally completed in 2011.   This project allowed for installation of a computerized closed loop traffic signal system on Baltimore Pike and Providence Road.  This system will enhance travel and reduce congestion for the thousands of motorists who travel on both roads each day. 
8. Hampton Inn: Media's future hotel could have been started sooner, but it was the leadership of Jim Cunningham, Pete Alyanakian and southern precinct Committeewoman, Kristi Dick who made sure the residents of the southern precinct were properly represented by council.  This not only led to Media negotiating a better deal, but protected the best interests of the residents directly affected by this hotel and traffic development.  A win-win for all.

(Note:  PennDot provides a list of approved contractors for this type of CMAQ design work,  but the former council gave it to the largest donor to the Media Democratic Party.......a NO Bid contract to the former borough engineer for the design work. The firm had no experience in this type of design and took over 11 years and spent close to $300,000 of your tax dollars to complete the work!)

Character, Integrity and Honest Judgement Matters, 

regardless of party politics!

 tedmanformedia.com 

Renovations underway at 1 West State St. (Spasso's)

This week you may have noticed scaffolding and equipment outside 1 West State St.  The work being done is to renovate the recently purchased building in order to prepare for the arrival of the new Italian restaurant, Spasso's.

Renovations begin on 1 West State St.

Not only has the outside work begun, but the inside has been completely gutted with a lot of the old layout removed.  It'll be interesting to see what designs they have for this, but make no mistake, the food will be excellent.

I hear the restaurant is scheduled to be open come January 2012.  With New Year's such a big event in Media, perhaps they'll be open in time to kick off the New Year!

What ATM readers had to say this week.

After 600 posts about Media, I'm glad people have found this site to read up on All Things Media and share their thoughts.

Thanks for the ever increasing readership and the many nice (and a few not so nice) comments that have made this site stand out.

Here's what readers had to say this week:

TONIGHT! Film Festival at Media Theatre

Don't forget to checkout tonight's feature event at the Media Theatre.  They will be showing a film festival  in conjunction with Manhattan Short.  You can participate too, as votes tonight will be tallied tomorrow evening to announce the winner.  

Out of 598 entries received from 48 countries around the world, Manhattan Short selected 10 short films as finalists. Each film is 18 minutes or under in length. Countries represented this year include Australia, Canada, Scotland, Sweden, Switzerland, Hungry, Peru, Egypt, and two films from the USA in what festival organizers describe as the "United Nations of Film Festivals."

These short films will not only entertain a global audience but will be judged by them as well. Filmgoers will be handed a voting card upon entry and asked to vote for the one film they feel should win. Votes are tallied at each participating cinema and submitted to festival headquarters. The winner will be announced in New York City as well as posted on the Internet atwww.ManhattanShort.com on Sunday, Oct. 2 at 10 p.m. 

You can read more about it at Roger Ricker's blog on media.patch.com

Stop Sign at 3rd and Lemon Streets has been installed

A lot of people I've talked to were quite happy to hear a 4 way stop sign was coming to 3rd St and Lemon.  Today I swung by and saw it is now up.  For those unfamiliar with the new traffic sign, there is also a blinking light to remind vehicles of it's new presence.

Thanks to Councilman, Jim Cunningham for his dedication towards getting this accomplished.

Media's Food Festival October 2nd 2011

Due to inclement weather, 

today's event has been postponed 

until next Sunday, OCT 9th 2011

Along with the Media Americana Music Festival, the Media Food Fest. has alway been one of my favorite events held in Media.  I must say that the Car show in July really impressed me too, but after 31 years, the food festival holds the attention of a different crowd.
 
It appears to have changed over time, as I remember it being the unofficial battle ground of the delco's best crab cake.  Fierce competition was brought by the Little Inn (now Generations), New Orleans Cafe (1 W. State St,), Packy's Pub (now Sligos) and a host of others who claimed superiority in this category.  People still rave about the Little Inn crab cakes, but for me they were all too close to pick a winner........and I ate a lot of them.  Filler, no filler, I don't know, perhaps the debate still goes on, but it sure did draw a crowd.
I don't think the rivalries are still there, but they did create a buzz around the event.  West Chester has a similar event that has become a region sensation with food, beer gardens and a host of music.  Kennett Square also has a great reputation for their beer and mushroom festivals.   I hope Media maintains that level too, as a destination known for it's lively events and an experience people gladly come back to.

Media 31st Annual Food and Craft Festival October 2nd 2011 (rain date Oct 9th)

Entertainment to be provided by local groups: 

• Leroy Hawkes and the Hipnotics 
• Lonnie Shields Band 
• The Roger Girke Band 
• Jimmy Shoe and the Shine

Follow us on Twitter for realtime updates: @mediapanews

Transition Town Media: A Few Steps to Winter Energy Savings

A Few Steps to Winter Energy Savings

Transition Town Media partners with AFewSteps.org to host a fun, interactive event designed to teach you a few tricks that can help you save a lot on your energy bills this winter and still keep your home nice and comfortable.

Join us Tuesday, September 27th from 7-9 pm at the Media Borough Community Center, 301 N. Jackson St., Media, to get tips from a panel of experts and from your neighbors, and to share what you've done to reduce your energy usage. We'll dispel some myths and uncover what really works, what's cost-effective, and what does the most good to bring down those heating bills.

You will definitively take home some new ideas that you can put into practice right away! This is a free event, donations always gratefully accepted. Refreshments will be available.

For more information, see: www.TransitionMedia.memberlodge.com, contact TransitionMedia@yahoo.com, or find us on Facebook (Transition Town Media).

Media's Court of Common Pleas Candidate, Nathaniel Nichols

In addition to the 3 open Media borough council seats this election, which I'm currently running for one, Media also has a candidate running for Delaware County Court of Common Pleas, Nathaniel Nichols.  Nate, who was nominated and supported by the Media Borough Republicans is a long time Media resident who is well know in the community and the legal profession. 

Nathaniel C. Nichols graduated from Howard University where he majored in Political Science and minored in Business Administration.  He graduated from the Columbia University School of Law with a Juris Doctorate degree.  Nate began his legal career in 1974 at Delaware County Legal Assistance Association, where he became the Managing Attorney.  He then went into private law practice with Early, Nichols and Givens. Later he formed the firm of Nichols and Givens. 

In 1986 he joined the faculty of  Widener Law School as a clinical professor.  He served as Dean of Students at Widener and is now the Director of Clinical Programs.  As a clinical professor, he has trained hundreds of law students to practice before the Delaware County Courts.  Over his academic career he has taught Creditor's Rights, Consumer Bankruptcy, Domestic Violence Law, and  Property.  http://www.natenicholsforjudge.com

CANDIDATES:  Nate Nichols, Pete Alyanakian, Toni Cavanagh DiMonte, Tedman O'Hara

Nate is not only one of the most well liked people I know, he is tremendously qualified to serve the people of Delaware County.  It's an honor to support these candidates. Come out and see us November 8th!


Tedman 

Support the Media Fire Company - Chicken and Rib BBQ Today.......

Come out and support the fundraising efforts of the Media Fire Company.  Stop by and check out the food and see what they're all about.  

They are also actively looking for volunteers to join their ranks.

Media Garage Sale and Gibbons Rock N' Roll Car Show (Video)

Media's new sign on Baltimore Pike

Although yesterday's turn-out for the Media Garage sale seemed a little on the light side, it was still a great and well attend event .

Edgmont Street seemed particularly busy and 4th St, by Jackson  seemed almost impassable with so many people.  It looked like there were things for everyone, even me.  I bought the unfinished birdhouse, but passed on the motorcycle.

The Gibbons Rock N' Roll Car show gets bigger each year.  They had a sizable display of cars along with food and music.  It's great to see that the proceeds will go to Family Support Line.

Thanks goes to www.gibbonsautomotive.com for hosting the event.  If you didn't get a chance to swing by, check out the video.

Sweet Potato Cafe on State St. Closes

Sad to hear the Sweet Potato Cafe on State St. has closed.  It was here for a few years having taken over from Cold Stone Creamery who vacated the premises prior.  Wow, time flies.

I can't say I visited the cafe much, but I do know they had great baked goods and supplied a lot of the area with their products.  As someone pointed out, with the departure of Sweet Potato, Media is now left without a bakery.


What's next for this store front?  My sources tell me a lease is in the works for a 320Cafe.  This group has a shop in Swarthmore PA and from what I hear, well worth the trip.  They specialize in gourmet cheeses, home made pasta, and other culinary delights not found in local super markets.


Here's a few pictures from their blog:

Media Garage Sale Maps can be found at Koffee Korner and Quincy's

As this weekend's great garage sale draws closer, so does the internet searches looking for the maps and information on the event.  Look no further, maps can be purchased for $0.25 at Koffee Korner and Quincy's on State St.

It'll be a great Fall weekend.......see you on the streets in Media!

A Stop Sign Coming to 3rd and Lemon St.

At tonight's meeting, Media Borough Council approved the placement of a stop sign at 3rd and Lemon St.  This was a much needed decision to improve the traffic safety by requiring a 4 way stop at the intersection.  This has been a dangerous intersection where I was once nearly hit, so I understand first hand how much this improvement was needed.

Nice job Borough Council!

Action Packed Weekend for Media Pa....Many Events

There will be no lack of things to do in Media this weekend!  I don't remember these events all hitting on the same weekend, but the more the merrier.
Enjoy!

Saturday

• Gibbons Auto 2nd Annual Rock and Roll Car Show -1 to 4pm - Olive St. garage - top level
• Media's 24th Annual Garage Sale - Saturday and Sunday 9am to 4pm

Sunday

• Media's Super Sunday - 9am to 4pm
• Media's 24 Annual Garage Sale - Saturday and Sunday 9am to 4pm

Gibbon's Auto Car Show Sept. 17th Media, PA

Local repair show owner Mike Gibbon's will be hosting another Car Show this Saturday, Sept. 17th.  It'll be at the upstairs parking garage on Olive and Baker Streets. I've always enjoyed this event and know others have too.


It's great to see local businesses bring the best out in Media.


Here's a video from last year's event.  You can find them on their Facebook page.

A great video of last Saturday's Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

A great video of last Saturday's 9/10,  Fine Arts and Crafts festival produced by Delaware County's News Network - delconewsnetwork.com

Yesterday's 9/11 events and ceremonies (Video) by media.patch.com

Media Patch covers yesterday's 9/11 events and ceremonies.

Due to the fact the video clip auto-starts, I took it down.  You can still see the video at media.patch.com

Possible Low Income Housing and 3rd Street Bridge

As a candidate for Media Borough Council, I was interested to learn that there is a petition being circulated asking that the newly proposed third St. Bridge be a pedestrian/bicycle greenway.  One thing that people might not understand is that the resolution for the repair was based on a legally binding agreement by Delaware County, Broomall Lake and the Borough stipulating that the bridge was to allow for vehicular motor traffic.  Oddly, it's been over a decade and this is the first I've heard from political opponents, both who were former Vice Presidents on council during that span, even raise this issue.  Had they been involved at that time, perhaps THEY could have worked towards including walkway options, let alone actually resolving the issue.


What else is concerning is that Broomall Lake has recently mentioned contingency plans based on the outcome of the bridge.  Due to potential cost, which was alleviated by a state grant of $650k, Broomall Lake has indicated they have options to possibly sell and/or develop the property should the bridge become anything less than what the agreement states.   Hickory Hill/Valley was the benefactor of the last sale from Broomall Lake.  The remaining Broomall property from what I've been told is currently zoned for low income, high-density housing.  I don't want to see this happen.


I too would like to see the bridge and surrounding area be as aesthetically pleasing and eco friendly as possible.  In fact, everyone would.  However, I also understand implications of our neglected infrastructure and know that bridges/dams of any sort are not easy to come by, especially ones that are already 100% paid for at no expense to Media taxpayers. 


For the record, I am a Friend of the Glen Providence Park, but I respectively disagree with their postion and would like to see this bridge built for ALL Media residents and surrounding communities.  


If you have an opinion about this, please feel free to leave a comment.


Tedman



Update: It's unfortunate, but I've had to remove the comments to this post.  What went from discussion on a bridge, led to insinuations against others that were inappropriate and somewhat shocking.  

Sligo has great facilities for private events

Great events often require a great venue.  If you're looking to host a party of any sort for 20 people, or up to 75, look no further than Sligo's and their upstairs facility.  I've used it many times with great success, as have many people who've asked me for recommendations.  

They have pre-packaged menus that can be mixed and matched for any occasion.  The setup, accommodations and service is first rate!

Sligo's secluded upstairs setting is perfect for any private party. Reserve this room today for anniversaries, banquets, birthdays, company events, meetings, and more.

This room features a stand-alone bar, private catering, buffet options and a 10ft HD projector and sound system for all your audio/visual needs.

Schedule your private party today by contacting Tina Bair at 484-441-6144 or emailing sligo@sligomedia.com

Fig Makes Media, PA Shine!

If you're a fan of photography and Media, you'll love how the talented folks at figmediapa.com show Everybody's Hometown in a wide array of photos and articles.  I had a chance to catch up with the group at their booth on State St. and saw their new publication showcasing Media.  Not only do the businesses featured in the booklet shine, but the vibe and the professional polish makes Media a destination that any traveler wouldn't think twice about visiting.  


Here's a great article on Media Local, Drew Arata from Earth and State.

Well done Fig!  Media's never looked so good!

Check out Fig on Facebook and their website, figmediapa.com

Pics of the Fine Arts and Crafts Setup in Media Today

The setup is well underway for today's Fine Arts and Crafts event held on State St.  What's different this year is that there are a lot of new exhibits and crafts that you may have not seen before.

One thing I particulaly like is that the setup of tents and booths are in the middle of State St. on the trolley tracks.  This seems to open up a lot of the sidewalk on both sides which should increase traffic flown and not block the businesses.

"Lest we forget" 9/11 remembrance in Media

While in town tonight it was great to hear the enthusiasm for this Sunday's event to remember and honor the 10th anniversary of September 11th.  This Sunday at 3pm, First United Methodist Church of Media (State and Lemon streets) along with  Nativity BVM and First Church will have a ceremony of songs, readings and tributes to the heros and victims of September 11.


The event will start at 3pm and host a collective group of local officials and police/fire/EMT/Ambulance personel.  A closing statement by our local congressman, Pat Meehan is also scheduled to conclude the event.

Media's 24th Great Garage Sale is approaching quickly Sept. 17th and 18th

Over the years the Media Garage Sale weekend has become a big event for not only residents, but for visiting browsers and buyers.  This year's sale will take place Sept. 17th and 18th from 9am to 4pm.  If you'd like to be included in Media Borough's map, click this link to download the form.

There's no indication from the borough on a possible rain date, but check back to this site or sign up via our twitter  page for all pertinent information regarding this and other events.

Community Arts & Crafts Festival - State St. - Sept 10th 11am to 7pm

Media VFW 75th Anniversary Banquet - Honored Guest - Pat Meehan

Don't miss a great opportunity to support the veterans at their upcoming anniversary.

Media's VFW will have their 75th Anniversary Banquet Oct. 15 at the Towne House restaurant.  The event will start at 6pm, dinner served at 7pm and ceremonies beginning at 8pm.  Dancing and music to follow.  Honored guest with be Congressman Pat Meehan and VFW State Commander, Larry Reese.

Tickets are $30 with a selection of either Filet Mignon or Crab Cakes. Appetizers will be included with cash bar.  Call 610-566-9980 for more information or tickets.

Pete Alyanakian Makes Solar Power Happen in Media

Many people don't know this, but Media has more solar panel installations on its buildings than many of the surrounding municipalities/counties.  To date, Media has nine functioning, solar generating sites: Media Youth Center, Media Borough Hall, Sweney Bldg./Courthouse, Highway Dept. Garage, Media Upper Providence Library, Media Firehouse, Media Elementary, Veteran's Museum/Trader Joe's and Media Theatre.

In fact, back in 2006 Media was awarded the Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence for having the first four buildings up and running on clean energy.  The initiative was conceived by Councilman Pete Alyanakian, who at the time, lead Media's Environmental Advisory Committee since its inception in 2004.

Pete was also instrumental in securing $20,000 in grant money last year for the four Big Belly Solar trash compactors installed throughout the borough.  Forward thinking, initiative and proven performance are what Media needs.

 State St. in front of Media Elementary School

 

The intiative is an ongoing process to create a micro solar grid which would be capable of providing emergency electricity during a time of crisis.  It's just the beginning of what could be not only a great source of renewable energy, but also a show case for other towns looking to make a difference in their own energy needs.

All Things Media in Minutes...........Twitter

Last week at the height of Hurricane Irene, Media Borough's website was down, but we weren't!  Follow us on Twitter for timely updates on power outages, relay of emergency notifications, safety concerns and more.

Follow @mediapanews

All Things Media in Minutes...........

Strong Leadership is needed to Preserve Media Elementary School

Through the leadership of Council President, Pete Alyanakian and Jim Cunningham, more issues have been resolved (Third St. Bridge, Funding,1 West State St., Cronyism, Hampton Inn, CMAQ) in the last year for Media Borough, than in the last decade!  In these ever changing  economic conditions, strong leadership with a proven recorded is needed now more than ever in our town.


Here's an important fact: Years back, Media Elementary School faced serious issues and budgetary challenges that could have led to its closure.  It was through the efforts of the Media Republicans who put forth strong schoolboard candidates that allowed the school to remain open and develop into the great educational experience it is today.  Media is currently represented by one RTM schoolboard representative, Veronica Barbado.  She has worked tirelessly to make sure our school systems in  Rose Tree Media are the best that they can be for the district and Media.


As a candidate for Borough Council and a life long product of the Rose Tree Media School District,  I am proud of what Media Elementary has achieved and will work to preserve/improve its importance in this community.  However,  I am also aware of the majority who don't have children in school, but still must share the tax burden.  These are both important issues that I'm committed towards working on with the community and our elected schoolboard officials.

The Home Team that grew up in the Media area and went to RTM Schools

Pete Alyanakian, Toni Cavanagh Dimonte, Tedman O’Hara

Quality education is dependent on the voice of the community and the action needed to make it happen.  With our Candidates: Pete Alyanakian and Toni Cavanagh-Dimonte, we're doing that now.


Tedman
www.tedmanformedia.com