Events, but First, a Rant

Sorry that the Diary's been pretty quiet all week. Too much to do before the holidays. But I've been around town a lot at night this week, and I have to say, we've got some great looking light displays in our neighborhoods. I think my favorite is the 2 blocks of Locust Street between Brown and Logan, up near Rittenhouse. Nearly every house in that stretch is decorated. Go check them out.

Last night I also had the chance to revisit my old elementary school, Roosevelt, for its 100th anniversary. They had a nice program and good attendance--I even saw some of my old classmates and teachers. And the school looked great. My only regret was that no one from Council showed up. Oh, they sent a Resolution (why come in person when you can send words?), which was supposed to have been delivered via Crandall Jones, the Borough Manager. He didn't come either. A police sergeant ended up delivering it (I'm voting for him next council election). Frankly, it would have been better not to send the resolution at all, because the message received was that our government didn't care about education in our town. Council was in good company, though. The 2 state senators who were to have been there? They didn't show either. I still sort of expect the attitude from outsiders that Norristown isn't worth showing up for, but not from members of Council. Okay, rant over. Thanks to the School District for the celebration. It meant a lot to those of us alumni from both the elementary school and alternative high school.

Not too many events this week. Enjoy the ones this weekend, then have a great Christmas/ Hanukkah/Kwanzaa, all of which are happening this coming week.

Friday, between 4 and 6 pm, Montco OIC (Arch and Basin Sts.) will have a public Toys for Tots day for families who need help this holiday season. The toys are mostly for infants to 8 years. If you know a family in Montgomery County (must be residents) who may not have a Christmas this year, have them stop by THIS FRIDAY between 4-6 pm. More info at http://bit.ly/Toys-For-Tots-Day or email info@montcooic.org or call 610-279-9700.

Friday (and every 3rd Friday from now on) from 9 pm to midnight, "The Spitwell Show" at Jus' Java (317 Swede). Spoken Word Open Mic. $5 admission, which will benefit a local youth non-profit org.

Saturday beginning at 10:30 am at Zachary's BBQ (1709 Markley Street), Feed The Burbs will present "Introduction to Permaculture and Soil Building Workshop." Although winter is just starting, now is the perfect time to start thinking about spring planting. One guaranteed benefit for your garden is to focus on building rich soil. Help us lay the foundation for a great garden while learning the tips and tricks to building healthy soil, with no digging necessary. Sponsored by Zachary's BBQ, http://www.zacharysbbq.com/.

Saturday, 7:30 pm, Building 33, Norristown State Hospital, the Montgomery County Emergency Services staff will present the play "Our Town" by Thornton Wilder. The cast includes MCES crisis workers, case managers, social workers, registered nurses, psychiatric technicians, allied therapists, administration. Admission, FREE. Donations to the MCES Patient Fund will be accepted. All proceeds from intermission concessions will be donated to the MCES Patient Fund. Enter from Sterigere Street via Gate 2, proceed on Circle Drive and park in the designated areas by Building 33. The play will also run Sunday at 2 pm. More info at this link.

Immediate job openings at Family Services of Montgomery County for CTC Parent Education Facilitator/Cheltenham Township, and Bilingual Parent Outreach Specialist/Pottstown. more info at http://fsmontco.org/about/employment-and-internships.

One last item: I'll be singing with Colonial Revelers at Valley Forge Park tonight between 6 and 8 in the visitor center. It's the anniversary of the Continental Army's arrival at Valley Forge and lots of family activities are planned. Come out and bring your kids.

Merry Everything!