AroundPhoenixville.com

Let Me Introduce Myself

2013-02-15T14:47:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone, I'm Alex, nice to meet you. I'm going to be keeping you up to date about what's going on "Around Phoenixville." My plan is to post every week about what cool things are happening, and also give a little follow up on the cool, or uncool events from the previous week. Each week I'm going to pick one Featured Event that I'm planning on attending and make sure I tell you how it went. Then give you a run down of the things I'm aware of that are happening in 19460.

(Insert catch phrase here),
Alex

This Week's Featured Event:

This Saturday I'm going to Joe's All American Pub for their Punk-a-rama Roadshow. A night of acoustic music featuring all your punk favorites stripped down acoustic style. starts at 10:00 pm and should be fun. Also I'm looking forward to having some of their awesome wings. Saturday 10pm at Joe's 519 Kimberton Rd, in Kimberton. Across from the Sly Fox, It's a free show so come out if you're looking for some fun on Saturday.

Also Happening this weekend:

Friday:
- At the Phoenixville Moose Lodge Molly Rhythm, The Breaks, Alright Jr and boog are playing. Free for members and qualified guests. starts at 9.

- And The Pickering Creek Inn has Sidney Joseph & the Organic Reverb

- Molly Maguires has Fish Out Of Water a Party Cover Band.

Saturday:

- Local Dub is at The Pickering Creek Inn

- And the aforementioned Punk-a-rama at Joes.

- Down the road a bit in Spring City Trespass a Genesis tribute band is playing at Chaplin's Music Cafe at 8:00 $25 at the door.

Time to move on...

2013-02-06T11:08:00.002-05:00

Loyal readers and fellow Phoenixville residents. I started this blog 6.5 years ago as a way to keep myself, and you, up to date with what was happening in our fine town. At the time, The Phoenix was the only other news source in town and the ability to find articles on their site was poor at best. My idea for Around Phoenxiville was to provide you not only with current and upcoming events but also a place for people to see a sort of archive of events that have been held. Through the site, I have had the chance to meet a number of the movers and shakers in town and have been asked to sit on a number of different committees and for that I am very grateful. But mostly I am thankful to the many of you who have sent me events over the years so that I could keep the community up to date. Without you, this site never would have taken off.

Over the past year or so, you surely will have noticed the frequency of my posts has dropped considerably. Family and work commitments have unfortunately made this site an after thought, something I do not foresee changing in the near future. It is with this in mind that I have decided to reach out and see if there are any of you who would like to take the reins and continue what I have started. With over 1000 facebook followers and 1000s of hits a month, its clear that even with sites like the Patch there are people out there who still use the site as a resource, and that's with fewer and fewer updates each month. I think with some fresh blood and a renewed enthusiasm, the site could easily get back to where it was.

My preference would be to bring someone on who would continue the site in its current form. However, if someone (individual or business) would like to take it in a completely different direction I'd be open to discussing this with them as well. My hope, in either case, is that the site does not just fade away as a number of other local blogs have done over the years. One thing to note up front, this site has never been a revenue generator besides a few bucks a month I get from the Google Ads. As such, anyone willing to help out would be doing so on a volunteer basis.

If you are interested, please contact me at info@bridgeandmain.com.

Thanks.

Jim

Comedy Appreciation Night Rings in the New Years at PJ Ryans

2012-12-31T12:38:00.000-05:00

This Thursday night, PJ Ryan's Pub will be hosting a Comedy Appreciation Night showcasing local and national comedians.

PHILADELPHIA AREA COMICS CONVENE TO BRING IN NEW YEAR!

Continuing in the tradition of hubs outside of comedy meccas such as Los Angeles and New York, the Philadelphia comedy scene continues to grow and gain national recognition. On January 3, 2013, nationally recognized comedian Chris Coccia brings together some of the areas best talent - from award winning, recognized comics such as Chris Rich to up and coming talents like LaTice – both of whom have been on The View.

“We have been growing the talent scene right here in Phoenixville by showcasing Comedy Nights the first Thursday of every month at PJ Ryan’s Pub. Our Comedy Appreciation Night on January 3 is going to be awesome – we have some of the funniest comics around joining us like John Kensil, Chip Chantry and Vince Valentine – just to name a few,” explains Coccia. “It’s exciting to see the momentum these shows have had both for the audience and the comics. We’re looking forward to a really fun evening.”

This year’s Comedy Appreciation Night at PJ Ryan's Pub features recognized local and national talent including host Chris Coccia, Chip Chantry, Chris Rich, LaTice, Marc Kaye, John Kensil, Jared Bilsky, Andy Nolan and Vince Valentine.

The laughs begin Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 8:00 P.M. You can find more information about this event at www.facebook.com/PJRyansComedy.

Oldies Dance This Saturday Night

2012-12-28T09:23:00.001-05:00

This Saturday, December 29th, the Polish American Citizens Club will be hosting an Oldies Dance featuring the music of Shake, Rattle & Soul. The concert, which will be from 8-11pm, will feature hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s and the cover charge is just $5.

The Polish American Citizens Club is located at 328 High Street.

Shake, Rattle & Soul

Local Business Spotlight: Well Living Thrift Store

2012-12-20T15:26:00.002-05:00

Well Living Thrift Store is a family owned and operated thrift store located at 1228 Egypt Rd in Oaks. From their website:

We opened November 1st, 2012. Our goal is not to be another store in your neighborhood but we want to be connected to you personally. We want to know you by name, by face and become friends! If you have any questions you can email us, or even call us ANYTIME! We even listed our personal cellphone number for you to reach for any reason!

Currently we hold thousands of items in areas of Men and Women's Apparels, shoes, books, accessories, furnatures, gym equipments, Movies, dvds, cds, electronics, home equipments, antiques, artworks, collectables... there are just so much to list down I just have not enough time!

Between now and December 29th, Well Living will be holding a 50% off sale on everyting in the store. Hours are 10am-7pm Monday through Friday and 10am-6pm on Saturdays (they are closed on Sundays). For more information, visit them online at welllivingthrift.com or give them a call at (484)392-7032.

SCA Hosting Annual Holiday Luminaria This Saturday Night

2012-12-12T13:02:00.000-05:00

The Schuylkill Canal Association will be hosting its annual Holiday Luminaria this Saturday, December 15th, from 6-9pm.

Come see the most spectacular light show of the holiday season, hundreds of luminary candles lining the towpath up to the house.

As if stepping back in time to a Dickens’ holiday scene, come inside to enjoy the beautifully decorated house, sing along with the joyful music played by Meadowlark and visit with Santa Claus between 6:30 & 7:30 PM with your little ones.

Partake in holiday treats and hot cider and join in with SCA as we toast our friends with best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

New to the Luminaria this year will be luminary bags, pre-assembled and ready to take home. These bags will be offered for a minimal donation of $1.00/bag; $5.00/6 bags. A SCA volunteer will be stationed outside the Locktenders House for those who wish to take advantage of this offer.

The Luminaria is cancelled only if there is a steady downpour of rain. The magnificent light display is even more mystical if there is a slight drizzle, misty fog or a few inches of snow truly creating a beautiful holiday scene.

All are welcome, a donation of $1 or more will be gladly accepted. Ample parking is available at Lock 60.

Holiday Ladies Night Out on Main Street

2012-12-11T12:58:00.002-05:00

This Thursday, from 6-9pm, women are invited downtown for another Main Street Ladies Night Out:

It's time for another Main Street LNO! This time it's Holla-day Style!
Thursday December 13 from 6pm -9pm
All of your favorite Main Street businesses will open their doors, bottles of wine, and their discount bins for a night of shopping, eating, drinking and fun!
Also, we will be giving out "Wish Lists" that you can fill out in each shop, then pass along to your guy (we all know they need help!)

Also, to give those guys a leg up, we are hosting a Main Street Guy's Shopping Night on December 20! We'll give them beer, chips, free gift wrapping, free advice, and we'll play nothing but Led Zep, Motley Crue and Guns N Roses to make sure they're comfortable! Tell all your friends husbands! 6pm-9pm

For more info check out the facebook event page or call LuLu Boutique at 610-933-1852

Visit the Camphill Kimberton Craft Shop for Holiday Gifts

2012-12-11T12:50:00.000-05:00

Gabrielle Beratan works at her tabletop loom in Camphill Kimberton’s weavery.

The Camphill Village Kimberton Hills Craft Shop is a unique and wonderful place to do your holiday shopping. The shop features a wide range of one-of-a-kind items including woven, knitted and felted handmade crafts. Many items are made from recycled materials and all are handcrafted in the village workshops.

Other items available include teas and culinary herbs, grown in Camphill Kimberton’s Biodynamic Herb Garden; Stella Natura planting calendars; greeting cards; pottery and yarn.

The craft shop, located in the Kepler Building, is open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. After shopping, stop by the Camphill Café for lunch, located just a short walk from the shop. The café offers organic, homemade soups, sandwiches, entrees and desserts and is open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Gift certificates are available and you may also shop online at their Etsy store. To see samples of items for sale in the craft shop, visit their Facebook page.

Camphill Kimberton crafts are also available at the following local shops and events:

Frogtowne Artisan Creations
1990 Ridge Road, Pottstown
Thurs/Fri: 11-7, Sat/Sun: 10-6

Kimberton Waldorf School Craft Fair
410 West Seven Stars Road, Phoenixville
December 7: 6-10
December 8: 10-5

Purls of Wisdom
2200 Kimberton Road, Unit 1, Phoenixville
Tue-Fri: 11-6; Sat: 10-5, Sun: 1-4

Windrose Studio Holiday Craft Market and
Puppet Theatre
31 Main Street, Phoenixville
Open until December 22
Fri: 12-9, Sat: 10-8, Sun: 11-6

Camphill Kimberton is located at 1601 Pughtown Road, Kimberton.

Chester County's Wyebrook Farm Offering One-of-a-kind Gift for the Holidays

2012-12-07T11:05:00.000-05:00

This holiday season, farmer Dean Carlson is pleased to offer Farmer’s Gift Baskets of his fresh, humanely raised Beef, Pork and Poultry from Wyebrook Farm (150 Wyebrook Road, 610-942-7481). Featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer’s annual gift guide, Farmer’s Gift Baskets are $75 for seven pounds of assorted fresh and cured meats from the farm, packed in a thermal bag and available for pick-up at the farm itself, as well as every Tuesday throughout December from downtown’s Green Aisle Grocery (1618 East Passyunk Avenue, 215-465-1411) and Cook (253 South 20th Street, 215-735-2665).

Guests who are interested in purchasing a Farmer’s Gift Basket, either as the foundation for an entire holiday season’s worth of meals or as a thoughtful and unusual gift for cooks and food lovers, should email info@wyebrookfarm.com for more information. Customers can also view Wyebrook’s complete product and price list on their website and then order their meats from info@wyebrookfarm.com.

“There is no match for the flavor, tenderness and nutritional properties of heritage-bred animals, raised with respect and without unnatural pesticides and antibiotics, patiently grown to their full potential and humanely butchered right here at the farm,” says Carlson, a hands-on farmer. “Our Farmer’s Gift Baskets bring the finest beef, poultry and pork directly to our customers, ensuring that they’ll serve a holiday feast that will be remembered for years to come.”

The baskets include an assortment of: Grass-Fed Steaks; Heritage Pork Chops; Farm-Fresh Eggs; and Cured Meats such as pastrami and bacon, chef-crafted in Wyebrook’s Farm Kitchen. Guests are encouraged to visit the farm to pick up their baskets and also shop Carlson’s selections of produce, cheese and more from similar-minded neighboring farms. The Wyebrook Market remains a one-stop shop for exceptional local food products.

Carlson’s cows, pigs and chickens thrive in a free-range environment without the use of pesticides, antibiotics or growth hormones. Cattle breeds, including Devon and Red Angus, live on a diet of grass and legumes, and Carlson evaluates their rib eye for superior quality using an ultrasound machine. Pigs, including purebread Ossabaw and Tamworth, are bred for their skill at foraging and incomparable taste, resulting in more flavorful pork that bears little resemblance to what is raised on industrial farms. Chickens, from the French Label Rouge program, are a breed called Freedom Rangers, and like all Wyebrook animals, they live up to the name, grazing widely across the property protected by movable fences.

Wyebrook Farm offerings change throughout the year, based on availability, with the best interests of the animals and their environment in mind. Featured selections, as determined by the natural constraints of traditional farming include everything from just-laid eggs to a wide variety of meats, including popular cuts such as T-Bone Steak, Pork Tenderloin and Chicken Breast as well as specialty cuts such as Oxtail, Pig’s Ear and Chicken Liver.

“Our animals enjoy life here at the farm, and we encourage our guests to visit us and learn more about the origin of their food before they take it home,” says Carlson.

In addition to his responsibilities as farmer, Carlson operates Wyebrook’s Farm Market at Wyebrook Farm. Housed in one of the restored stone barns on the property, the Farm Market is open every Friday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. The Farm Market occupies the top floor of the barn, and is stocked with a seasonal array of Wyebrook beef, pork and poultry, as well as produce, cheese and other fine products from nearby farms, making it a one-stop shop for discerning guests looking to bring home the area’s best farm-raised foods. Throughout the weekend, guests are invited to linger, getting to know the farm staff and understand what sets their products apart.

Since Carlson purchased Wyebrook Farm in March 2010, he has worked on extensive renovations to the property’s stone houses and barns. He also initiated several eco-conscious improvements to the buildings and farm equipment, including: over 50Kw of solar panels that provide much of the farm’s electricity; the conversion of cooking oil into biodiesel to power the tractors and other vehicles; and a rainwater capture system that feeds a pond, which provides irrigation for the apple orchard and other landscaping. Today, the formerly foreclosed land, once slated for a 100+ house residential development, is a vibrant example of how grassroots agriculture can re-energize a community and lead the way for residents and visitors alike to make healthier choices in their diets.

For more information about Wyebrook Farm’s Farmer’s Gift Baskets, please email info@wyebrookfarm.com. You can also call (610) 942-7481, visit www.wyebrookfarm.com, follow them on Twitter (@WyebrookFarm) and like them on Facebook.

Firebird Festival Returns this Saturday

2012-12-05T15:16:00.000-05:00

Phoenixville's Ninth Annual Firebird Festival will be held this Saturday, December 8th. The town wide celebration kicks off at 3:30 with several local businesses opening their doors for various Firebird themed events and culminates with the buring of the Phoenix at 8pm. Last year's event drew an estimated 6000 people and this year, with the new more convenient location of the firebird, promises to be even larger.

For more information, including a complete schedule of events, visit firebirdfestival.com.

Complimentary Lunch N Learn Event: “How to Transform Your Website into a Sales Machine” on Thursday, December 13th

2012-12-04T11:11:00.003-05:00

Small business owners and leaders in and around the Steel City are invited to attend a FREE event Thursday, December 13th from 12:00-1:00pm at the Royal Bank America building (808 Valley Forge Road, Phoenixville). Carolyn Frith of Carolyn Frith Marketing will present “How to Transform Your Website into a Sales Machine.” In a lively, interactive session you’ll gain actionable information to kick-start your online marketing. This includes how to get found on the web, engage visitors on your website, capture leads, and nurture and convert those leads into clients. Hosted by Royal Bank America and Wealthmark Financial Services, this event is just one of the popular monthly Small Business Series which continues throughout the year. Free light lunch, learning and networking! RSVP by calling 610.933.1195 or by going to http://phx-es2.eventbrite.com/?rank=1. Wealthmark Financial Services, LLC, 808 Valley Forge Rd, Ste 104, Phoenixville, PA 19460, 610.400.1111. Securities & Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Edgar Allan Poe Comes Alive at Phoenixville Public Library

2012-12-04T11:08:00.000-05:00

Scott Craig Jones is Edgar Allan Poe in a one-man show to be presented at Phoenixville Public Library on Thursday, December 6 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Poe reminisces about his life – and death – and performs eight of his masterworks, including The Tell-Tale Heart, The Raven, and The Masque of the Red Death.

This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Phoenixville Public Library and is free and open to the public. Reservations are required. For more information or to reserve a seat, call 610-933-3013 x32 or e-mail mpinto@ccls.org. Phoenixville Public Library is located at 183 Second Avenue, Phoenixville, PA.

Kiwanis Club's Annual Holiday Parade Being Held This Friday

2012-12-03T10:31:00.000-05:00

K-Kids from Barkley Elementary School assemble to march in the 2011 parade

The Kiwanis Club of Phoenixville will be holding its annual Holiday Parade in Phoenixville on “First Friday”, December 7, 2012 beginning at 7:00 PM. The parade route has been changed from prior years. This year’s parade will begin at the Justice Building on Bridge Street and continue on Bridge Street ending at Starr Street.

Santa Claus will arrive with the help of the Phoenixville Area High School Marching Band. The parade line-up also includes a Mummers string band, several floats from area civic and service groups. Area fire companies participate with decorated fire engines as they compete for the “Best Decorated Fire Engine” award. Approximately 25 children’s characters will also be in the parade.

The annual Phoenixville Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will take place at approximately 8:30 at the corner of Bridge and Main Streets. Afterwards, Santa will move to his house located at the Kiwanis Children’s Plaza on Bridge Street.

East Pikeland Elementary Hosting Annual Holiday Shoppe Tomorrow

2012-11-30T09:07:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow (Dec. 1) from 10-2, East Pikeland Elementary will be hosting their annual Holiday Shoppe. Featured will be over 20 vendors selling various crafts, a bake sale and a basket raffle featuring an American Girl Doll, an electric scooter and more. In addition, kids will be able to take part in a Secret Workshoppe and there will be food for the whole family.

East Pikeland Elementary is located at 1191 Hares Hill Road.

Iron Works Church Hosting “Saints and Skeptics” Debate on December 13th

2012-11-29T15:46:00.001-05:00

Iron Works Church and the Bertrand Russell Society have partnered to host “Saints and Skeptics”, a moderated debate and open forum on faith and skepticism, taking place on December 13th at 6:30pm at Franklin Commons.

The evening will include an unscripted debate between two scholars, followed by an open forum where the audience may ask questions of the presenters. Carl Trueman of Westminster Seminary will represent Historic Christianity as espoused by Saint Augustine and Chad Trainer of the Bertrand Russell Society will represent skepticism/atheism as espoused by Philosopher Bertrand Russell.

Tickets are on sale now and are discounted to $12 if purchased before November 30th. To purchase tickets or to find more information, visit the Saints and Skeptics website. Ticket price includes complimentary wine and cheese.

Speaking in Shinos - An Exhibition of Wood Fired Ceramic Work

2012-11-29T12:01:00.001-05:00

Historic Yellow Springs, Chester Springs, PA is pleased to announce SPEAKING IN SHINOS, a group exhibition featuring VITRA5. This unique ceramic exhibit runs from November 30th-December 15th, 2012 with an opening reception on Friday, November 30, 2012 from 7 to 10 pm. The public is cordially invited to attend in the First Floor Galleries of the Lincoln Building, 1685 Art School Rd. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday noon-4pm.

SPEAKING IN SHINOS is the second annual show for the group VITRA5 that includes Heidi Brett, Karen Ewerth, Jessica Greet, Jackie Henisee and Wendy Vedder. A collective fascination with wood firing has been their focus over the last 2.5 years. This year VITRA5 wants to show the beauty in the Shino glaze family and explore how Shinos respond in the mysterious atmosphere of the wood kiln. Using the common language of the Shino glaze each ceramic artist brings their own voice with surface decoration, incorporation of other cone 10 glazes and carving techniques. This rugged wood fire process, the warmth of the Shino glazes and each "voice" of the potter is captured in a video presentation.

Simon Youth Foundation seeks applicants for $1 million in scholarships

2012-11-29T11:44:00.001-05:00

For a twelfth straight year, Simon Youth Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides educational opportunities for at-risk high school students, will award a college scholarship to one student from every community that is home to a Simon property.

Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarships are awarded through the Simon Youth Scholarships program and in partnership with local Simon properties. The application period is open from Thursday, November 8, 2012, to Friday, January 11, 2013.

Locally, students can pick up a copy of a scholarship application at the Simon Guest Services Center at Philadelphia Premium Outlets. Applications also can be downloaded at the SYF website or http://www.syf.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/SMS-2013-application.pdf

Any student who will be graduating in the class of 2013 and lives within 50 miles of a Simon property is eligible. The program will award a one-time scholarship of up to $1,400 to students who plan to enroll in an accredited college, university, vocational or technical school.

In addition, an “Award of Excellence” will be given to the top candidate from among the scholarship winners that represent each of the nationwide Premium Outlets® locations. That student will win a $2,500 scholarship that is renewable for up to three years.

In 2012, the Simon Youth Scholarships program awarded $1.2 million to 378 students nationwide.

“Our mission is to ignite hope for a brighter future in students, and our Foundation is proud to partner with Philadelphia Premium Outlets to award scholarships that will remove some of the financial obstacles that would otherwise prevent a student from achieving the dream of a college education,” says J. Michael Durnil, Ph.D., the President and CEO of SYF.

The 2013 SYF Community Scholarship recipients will be selected by Scholarship Management Services, a third-party administrator. Students are selected based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, academic performance, leadership skills and participation in school and community activities. Those students who are the first in their family to pursue a post secondary education will also be given close consideration.

The completed application, along with official school transcripts and parents’ most recently filed tax form, must be sent to Scholarship Management Services by March 1, 2013.

Louie's Foundation Beef and Beer Benefit

2012-11-23T14:24:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, December 6th, come out to Spring Hollow Golf Club in support of a great cause. Louie's Foundation, whose goal it is to help critically ill children and their families by providing funding and advocacy to improve their quality of life while at home or in the hospital, is hosting a beef and beer from 6-10pm. In addition, there will be a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and live music. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at http://www.eventbee.com/event?eid=995958305 or by stopping into the proshop at Spring Hollow. Proceeds from the event will go to benefit chronically ill children in our community and their families and Child Life Programs at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Shop to Beat MS: A Benefit for Walk MS at the Devon Horse Show

2012-11-23T14:13:00.002-05:00

Hors d’oeuvres, live music and holiday shopping will all be in store for those attending a charitable fundraiser in Radnor next month. On December 5, the National MS Society will be partnering with the 333 Belrose Bar and Grill to host a kick-off event for Walk MS at the grounds of the Devon Horse Show.

“We are proud to be partnering with the MS Society to host this event. We are committed to supporting those living with MS on the Main Line,” says Kelly Finch, Manager and Events Coordinator at 333 Belrose, which has a reputation for its commitment to community involvement in the Radnor Area.

Amongst the vendors who will be present for “Shop to Beat MS” will be the trendy trunk show vendor Stella and Dot, and the cupcake truck Dia Dolce. Guests who attend the event will enjoy valet parking, a variety of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and wine and a silent auction while they shop. There will also be a performance from singer-songwriter Seamus McGroary. Guests will also have the chance sign up to walk or volunteer for Walk MS 2013.

Walk MS manager Melissa Hersh views the event as an opportunity to bring communities in the Main Line together. “We are always looking to recruit more members of the MS Movement; we thought our partnership with the Belrose would be the perfect opportunity to get the word out about our inaugural year partnering with the Devon Horse Show.” Walk MS at the Devon Horse Show will take place on Sunday, May 5, 2013.

“Shop to Beat MS” will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at 333 Belrose Bar and Grill located at 333 Belrose Lane, Radnor, PA 19087. Tickets will be $25 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will go to funding programs and services, research, and treatments for the more than 14,000 people living in the Greater Delaware Valley with MS. To RSVP for the event, email adrienne.webb@nmss.org or call 215-271-1500.

For more information about the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Walk MS at the Devon Horse Show, visit www.walk4ms.org or www.devonhorseshow.net.

Phoenixville Hurricane Sandy Relief Effort

2012-11-17T18:35:00.000-05:00

Karen Johns has organized a group of volunteers collecting money and supplies to assist those effected by Hurricane Sandy. The group has opened an account with Phoenixville Federal Savings and Loan and has created a Facebook group which you can visit at facebook.com/groups/479046235452003.

Phoenixville Jaycees Hosting 3rd Annual Burn Off The Bird 5k Saturday, Nov. 24

2012-11-16T15:07:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving is a time for eating, often times much more than we should. We all know how hard it can be to pass up that second piece of pumpkin pie or extra helping of stuffing. The Phoenixville Jaycees can help you take care of some of those extra calories with their third annual Burn Off the Bird 5k and 1-mile Fun Walk on Saturday, Nov. 24. starting 9 a.m. at Stepping Stone Education Center, 475 Grant Street, Phoenixville.

Pre-registration for the race is available through active.com and guarantees a long sleeve Dri-Fit shirt. Race day registration is $30 and shirts will be available while supplies last.

"As an organization the Phoenixville Jaycees have worked hard to support the community,” Andrea Barber, a Phoenixville Jaycee and chairperson of the event said.” The Burn of the Bird race shows us how families come together, make donations and support each other during the holiday season."

This year's course takes runners around the scenic area of the Phoenixville’s north side and is similar to the race held 2010. There are some rolling hills that will definitely help burn some extra calories.

Race day check-in and race day registration will take place at Stepping Stone Education Center starting at 8 a.m. Participants and supporters are encouraged to bring supplies to help Stepping Stone. Requested supplies include:

Lysol wipes
gloves for changing diapers
toilet paper
hand soap
tape refill for tape dispenser
baby wipes
paper towels
dish soap
sponges
hand towels
jumbo crayons
toddler forks and spoons
tissues
copy paper (white and colored)

Anyone that brings one of these items will receive a Phoenixville Jaycees water bottle, one per person.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the Phoenixville Parks and Recreation Department for the restoration of Reeves Park.

Complimentary Lunch N Learn Event: QuickBooks Kickstart on Thursday, November 15th

2012-11-09T15:28:00.004-05:00

Small business owners and leaders in and around the Steel City are invited to attend a free event Thursday, November 15th from 12:00 PM -1:00 PM at the Royal Bank America building (808 Valley Forge Road, Phoenixville). Local CPA Dave Ashworth will present useful and valuable ideas about utilizing QuickBooks for your accounting needs. This complimentary lunch event should prove to be of importance to small business owners in this lively interactive session designed to provide attendees with actionable information. Hosted by Royal Bank America and Wealthmark Financial Services, this event serves as a continuation to a larger Small Business Series with events to be held throughout the winter on a variety of topics of interest to business owners.This event is free and open to the public. A light lunch will be offered and attendees can RSVP by calling 610.933.1195.

Phoenixville Hurricane Sandy Relief Effort

2012-11-06T15:39:00.001-05:00

Reader Maureen posted this on our Facebook page:

New Jersey residents are in desperate need following the devastation of many shore communities and are in need our immediate help.

The process of returning life to normal may take a very long time but together we can help our neighbors by donating items, distributing flyers about this effort, volunteering at the collection center when it opens, and help to make a positive impact on many lives. We have received a list of needed items. Please see below.

Wednesday, November 07, 2012, 7 p.m. we will meet at the Episcopal House, 601 Center Street, Phoenixville, to collect any immediate donations and to organize volunteers to drop flyers, staff a collection center, and deliver supplies to New Jersey. Please make plans to attend!

Manny DeMutis has graciously offered a collection site for donations next door to Generations which is across from Phoenixville Federal Bank and Trust at 115 Main Street, Phoenixville. The center will be open later this week. Look for signs for hours of operation.

A bank account, "Phoenixville Hurricane Sandy Relief Effort", has been opened at Phoenixville Federal Bank and Trust.

Thank you!

****

Donation list not limited to these items:

Bottled water, non-perishible snacks, cereal, canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, all toiletries, feminine sanitary products, shampoo, conditioner, baby products, formula, diapers, wipes, hand sanitizers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, warm socks, gloves, blankets, pillows, pet supplies, dog and cat food, portable storage bins, batteries, candles, etc.

Dr. Chaim Peri to Discuss “Instilling Values in Your Children” at Montgomery School

2012-11-06T15:36:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, November 8, Montgomery School and ESF Camps will host Dr. Chaim Peri, the director and chief educator at Yemin Orde in Israel for 27 years, to discuss “Instilling Values in your Children: Complementing Intuition with Method.” This event is free and open to the public.

Yemin Orde is home, at any give time, to some 500 at-risk, disadvantaged, immigrant children and teenagers from more than 20 countries throughout the world. More than 55 percent of those living and studying at Yemin Orde today are immigrants from Ethiopia, some 30 percent from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) and others are from Latin America, Europe and some Israeli-born children from deprived backgrounds. All the children are from the lowest end of the socio-economic scale and have suffered one form of trauma or another in their young lives, including abandonment, separation and worse. The village serves as both a home and school environment and is dedicated to giving youngsters the highest-possible level of care and education, cultivating their self-esteem and building leadership qualities through innovative outreach programs.

Under the leadership of Dr. Peri, Yemin Orde developed unique methodologies which he will share during the event, including how to:

Empower children to believe in themselves and their innate abilities
Help children develop the academic and social skills needed to succeed in school and later life
Encourage children to become leaders in their own right
Teach children to know the comfort and joy of aiding others.

During Chaim’s 27 years as director and chief educator at Yemin Orde, the village twice won the President’s Prize for Education. In 1996, the prestigious Guardian of the Child Award was bestowed jointly on Chaim and the village. In May 2005, Chaim was a torch lighter at the opening celebrations of Independence Day on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. In 2007, he was further honored with the Exemplary Educator of Israel award. The same year marked the publication of his boo: Reclaiming Adolescents: A Return to the Village State; Wisdom on Education and Parenting from Yemin Orde Youth Village. Chaim was just nominated by Elie Wiesel for the highest award that can be bestowed upon an individual in Israel, the Israel Prize.

Event Details:
Dr. Chaim Peri
Thursday, November 8, 2012 at 7:00 PM
Bell Hall, Montgomery School, 1141 Kimberton Road, Chester Springs PA 19425
Free and open to the public, no reservations required
Refreshments available at 6:45 PM

About Montgomery School:
Montgomery School is an independent, co-educational day school serving prekindergarten through grade eight in Chester Springs, Pennsylvania. The School is dedicated to the development of each child in mind and body through academics, fine and performing arts, and athletics in an enriching cultural and physical environment. The School is equally committed to the development of each child's character, with an emphasis on integrity, respect, responsibility, and service to others.

To learn more, please visit www.montgomeryschool.org.

TOSDV Presents Holiday Extravaganza

2012-11-06T15:28:00.000-05:00

The Theatre Organ Society of the Delaware Valley presents its Holiday Extravaganza. This program includes Laurel and Hardy’s comedy “Big Business,” with Wayne Zimmerman providing live accompaniment on the TOSDV Wurlitzer Opus 585, 3-manual, 24 rank theatre pipe organ. A concert by guest organist Joe Pantano, and music to celebrate the season (Late Fall/Winter, Christmas, Chanukah, New Years, etc.) will complete the program.

This fun afternoon, quickly becoming a highly anticipated annual event, will take place Sunday, December 9, 2012, 3 PM, at the Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville, PA. Tickets, $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, will be available at the door. Note that the Colonial assesses a $1.50 fee on all tickets.

Come and join us for our last theatre pipe organ program for the 2011-12 season and ring out the old year (a little early), TOSDV-style.