Riverfront Park: Good News, Bad News, and REALLY Bad News

Testing river water

It’s been a month since Public Works removed most of the vegetation from the riverbank at Riverfront Park. Yesterday I went there to help volunteers test our river water for pollutants and other water health factors. Remember, this river provides our drinking water.

The results:  Nitrate levels (caused by runoff that contains fertilizer) were slightly better than on Earth Day.  PH levels were a tad on the alkaline side but not far from optimum (changes in pH can promote the growth of nasty invasive vegetation in the river). The bad news is that phosphate levels were worse (caused by runoff containing waste—for instance, from the goose droppings along the bank, the many dogs people bring to the park to relieve themselves, and all the backyards uphill that contain dog poop, etc.)

If you read my first blog on the riverbank about 3 weeks ago, you’ll remember how important the riparian zone (riverbank) vegetation is for filtering pollutants like phosphates, to keep them out of our drinking water.

The good news is that some of the vegetation is beginning to grow back, especially where the blue sediment barrier is, because the barrier discourages people from stepping over it and trampling the plants. (The photo shows mainly broadleaf plantain—an introduced species that’s been in North America long enough to be considered native.) If left alone, the vegetation will come back on its own, though replacing some of the more recent invasive species with native shrubs and flowers is best.

However, where there’s no barrier, little growth is taking place and the soil is quickly eroding around the tree roots.

At the end of the parking lot, where the lot is closest to the water, erosion is happening so fast that no vegetation at all is visible and almost all the top soil is gone. What’s underneath is what looks like old construction fill—cement blocks, cement dust in the soil, etc. Nothing will grow there. Meanwhile, the river keeps getting closer to the asphalt.

Where the river is closest to the lot

When I tried to ask some of our council folks what the plans are for Riverfront Park, they directed me to the Norristown.org. It took me a while but I found the plan at this link.

What the plan shows is no riparian zone at all for the area in question (which goes against US, PA and Montgomery County guidelines/ regulations for riparian zones). The bank appears to be all paved (it's described as "stone protection/stone seating/bank fishing"), with large boulders along the water’s edge. Less trees than we have now. Nothing to filter pollution, nothing to prevent erosion from behind or during floods, nothing to help slow flood waters, no habitat for wildlife (which includes fish—who get much of their shelter and food from overhanging trees and nutrients that wash into the river from vegetation on land or from whatever lives in the muddy shallows (which will be covered with boulders)). The entire natural eco-system in this area would be completely destroyed. More pollution in the river, leading not only to more difficulty cleaning our drinking water, but to the growth of more invasive weeds in the river, preventing boating.

Do we prefer bottle caps instead of plants?

Even if all that wasn’t a problem, think about the added heat that less trees/vegetation and more stone would bring to the park. Honestly, there’s too much paving there on a hot summer day now as it is, let alone add more. We’re supposed to be a community that cares about the environment. Riverfront Park could be a natural area showcase for our town, a wonderful place to teach our kids the science of nature and ecology. And a great place to fish if we don’t mess with current fish habitats. And a cool, breezy place to picnic. And a healthy river for boating.

This plan is dated 2011. I don’t know of any environmental study done since then in relation to this plan. One council person said there were town halls about it last fall. I checked all the calendars, including Norristown.org and the Municipality’s Facebook events. Nope, no town halls about Riverfront Park at all.

Litter and trash in the park continues

Some of our council reps have spoken to me and seem open to discussing environmental concerns about Riverfront Park. From the rest of Municipal Hall, I’ve only heard repeated claims that Public Works “cleaned up” the riverfront last month. Apparently healthy vegetation is trash to them (while real trash is still left lying around).

Please contact your council person and ask that a healthy NATURAL environment be restored to the riverbank and incorporated into the Riverfront Park Plan, for the good of the whole community.

The Arts As a Cure for Gloomy Weather

Rain predicted this weekend, but most of the activities are indoors. Take in the play at Theatre Horizon, the classical concert at the Centre, go to Five Saints, or bring the family to the zoo for free on Sunday. And remember, today is Cinco De Mayo, and Norristown has the best, most authentic Mexican food in the region.

Friday, 8 pm at Theatre Horizon, "White" continues its run. Availability for tonight's show is limited and Saturday and Sunday are already sold out, but other shows this week Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm. Tickets and performance schedule at this link.

Saturday, 8-11 pm at Five Saints Distilling (Main and Green). Ken Pierson performs.

Sunday, 8:30 am-1 pm, meet at Riverfront Park. Schuylkill Scrub. Volunteers wanted to clean along Schuylkill River. Contact Kristi Barletta at 610-270-0470 or email kbarletta@norristown.org.

Sunday, 2-5 pm at Elmwood Park Zoo. Free admission for Norristown residents who present a valid photo ID.

Sunday, 3 pm at Centre Theater (208 Dekalb). The First Sunday Concert Series with an ambitious program performed by students of Temple University. Violinist Shannon Merlino, cellist Chen Chen and pianist Silvanio Reis will play Dvorak’s Piano Trio No. 4 in E minor Op. 90, the “Dumky.” Clarinetist Zhou Zan, cellist Mia Angelela, and pianist Joshua Kwon will  perform Beethoven’s Trio in B-flat major, Op. 11. The concert will open with “Tango Tzigane” by the Danish composer Jacob Gade, performed by the cellist Steve Kramer and pianist Maria Taylor. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

Tuesday, 2-3:30 pm at the Norristown Library (1001 Powell). Great Books Group. This month's book discussion will be The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison.  For more information, contact Shirley Miller at 610-272-4179.

Tuesday, 7 pm, Planning Commission meeting at Municipal Hall.

Wednesday, 5:30-11:30 pm at Theatre Horizon. Young Friends Night. If you sign up for a FREE membership and buy a ticket to Wednesday's performance of "White" (using the Young Friends discount), you get a pre-theater Paint Party, a Post-show discussion, and a post-show cocktail party at Five Saints. For information and tickets, go to this link.

Thursday, 4:30-6:30 pm at the Carver Center (249 Jacoby St). Driver's License Restoration Clinic. Attendees need to possess a driver’s license number and a social security number. Attendance is FREE, but RSVP to Chad Hoffmann at choffmann@pasenate.com or 610-768-4200.

Next Saturday, May 13, 10 am-noon at New Life Internet Cafe (19 W Marshall). Photo ID Clinic. If you're in need of a photo ID, bring ID and proof of residence. If you have questions, call 610-945-6398.

Next Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm at Selma Mansion (1301 W Airy), a special Mother's Day weekend event: The Ladies of Selma Mansion. A FREE living history open house. Meet the women who made Historic Selma Mansion a home from 1794-1980. Spinning and wool-craft. Operate a drop spindle, rushlight, quills and other historical objects. Learn how mothers used herbs to nurse their families back to health. Churn butter. Handle and try on historic clothing. Take a tour of the mansion to hear about the lives of the women who lived there. More activities for children and adults. Tea and goodies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Next Saturday, noon-4 pm at Norristown Maenner-Chor Club Pavilion, Help K9 Officer Jerry Get a Jitney. Fundraiser for a new K9 vehicle for the NPD. Adults, $20; 15 and under free. Purchase tickets from the NPD at 235 E Airy, at the Maenner-Chor Club or at 40 E Main.

Next Saturday, 8-11 pm, Second Saturday Jazz at August Moon.

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

Music, Dance, Comedy, and Free Coffee

Some great events this weekend and many more in the next month. Stay tuned. Only one more week to get your application in for Citizen Police Academy. I highly recommend this course for all Norristown residents.

Friday, March 24 from 6:30 to 9 pm at Norristown High School Gym. Basketball: Harlem Wizards take on NASD teachers and principals. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Fundraiser for NAEF. Email Norristownnaef@gmail.com to order tickets. Info at this link.

Saturday, March 25, 10 am-noon, at Dekalb Day School (1215 Dekalb). Elizabeth Luff, noted children's Creative Movement specialist, will lead a training workshop entitled "Singing And Dancing Together" aimed specifically at teachers of 3-5 year olds. Satisfies 2 hours of required Pa Keys training. Any teacher, however, is welcome. For more info feel free to call Elizabeth at 484-687-7880.

Saturday, 7-11 pm at Five Saints Distilling (Main and Green). Jazz 180: Lyndsey Piecyk performs.

Saturday, 8:30 pm at Centre Theater (208 Dekalb). Jared Bilski's Obituary, featuring Norristown-based comedian Jared Bilski. Doors open 7:30 pm. $20. Tickets at Bilski.brownpapertickets.com.

Sunday, 9-11 am at Eli's Bakery (324 W Marshall). Coffee With A Cop returns. Stop by to meet our police officers and enjoy a free cup of coffee and goodies from Eli's Bakery.

Sunday 3-5 pm at Centre Theatre. Schuylkill River Towns presents "Cast Away-Freshwater Fishing in the Schuylkill and Beyond." FREE seminar by Gerry Waterfield, an experienced fisherman and Fisheries scientist. More info, contact Peter at 267-939-8114, peter@eastwicksolutions.com or go to this link.

Monday, 9 am-1 pm at Norristown Library (Powell and Swede). AARP Tax-Aide Tax Preparation Assistance (only 3 more sessions before the tax deadline). Tax-Aide is available free to taxpayers with low and moderate income, with special attention to those 60 and older. For info, contact Asha Verma at averma@mclinc.org or call 610-278-5100 x0. For more information on the documents you will need to bring with you, visit the Tax Aide website at AARP.org/taxaide, or call the toll-free number at 888-227-7669.

Tuesday, 7 pm at Municipal Hall. Zoning Board Hearing.

Ongoing through April 29, The Historical Society of Montgomery County (1654 DeKalb) is running the exhibit: Norristown Remembered, The Art of Frank Batson. Norristown native Frank Batson’s paintings are inspired by his memories of Norristown and the surrounding area from the 1940’s, ‘50’s, and ‘60’s. Many of the buildings and places are long gone, but through his art, they are brought back to life. Exhibit is FREE and open to the public daily, Monday and Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 1-7:30 pm. Saturday hours vary. For info, contact 610-272-0297 or contact@hsmcpa.org. The Society is handicapped accessible.

Next Friday, March 31 is the deadline to get your applications in for Citizen Police Academy. The Academy is a 10-week course on Wednesday nights (6:30 to 9 pm) beginning April 19. The purpose of the Academy is to give the community a better understanding of what the NPD does, how they do it, and why they do it. Topics include policing strategy, dynamics of patrol, crime investigations, emergency communications and dispatch operations, as well as riding along with patrol. Participants must attend 75 percent or more of the scheduled classes in order to be eligible to graduate and receive a certificate. Class size is limited. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and be a resident of Norristown. Applications can be picked up at the station located at 235 East Airy or can be requested via email NorristownCPA@norristown.org. Any questions about the CPA can be directed to Community Affairs Liaison Gina Davies (610)270-0490.

Next Saturday, April 1, 9:30-11:30 am at Norristown Library. ICN Summer Resource Fair. Come and find out what opportunities are open for your children this summer. 10 camps and programs will be present. For info, contact Viviann Schorle, icn@icnconnections.org.

Also next Saturday, 6-10 pm at Diva's Kitchen (9 W Main). Caribbean Game Night. Live music, games, and all-you-can-eat buffet. $15 per person. BYOB

Starting Wednesday, April 4, 5:30-7:30 pm, and continuing the 2 Wednesdays after that, the NPD will conduct Neighborhood Watch Training at the Norristown Library. For information, contact Gina Davies (610)270-0490.

MLK Day Events and More

Enjoy programs for kids and adults on Martin Luther King Day at different venues around town, most of them absolutely FREE and staggered throughout the day so you can get to all. Then, at the end of the week, be a light for our community at Theatre Horizon, and learn about our river at Centre Theater.

Starting Saturday, January 14th at 10:45-11:15 am at First Presbyterian Church gym on Airy St., Norristown Recreation will host a 6 week Norristown Ninja Warrior Obstacle Training Course for ages 6-16. Practice agility, speed, jumping, strength, balance and other needed skills for 6 weeks. The last week, you will be challenged by a complete obstacle course to see if you are a real Norristown Ninja. Cost $25.

Saturday, 8-11 pm, August Moon, 300 E Main. This month's Second Saturday Jazz will feature the Dylan Taylor Quartet. Dine during the show. Jazz doors open at 7 pm. Sets on the hour.

Monday, 10 am-2 pm, GW Carver Community Center (Jacoby and Arch), MLK Day of Celebration. Arts, crafts and activities for children grades 1-12. History and entertainment. Everyone welcome. Cmmunity serve hours available if needed.

Monday, 1-4 pm, Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Blvd. MLK Day at the Zoo. Admission will be free, though we do ask that you make a donation as you enter the zoo. We'll be hosting a live animal education program entitled "I Have a Dream" at 1 pm in the Canopy Gardens Hall. Elmwood Park Zoo salutes all of the volunteers who have contributed their time and services throughout the year.

Monday, 5-7 pm at Theist Temple Church (535 E. Marshall) MLK Day-NAACP Youth Chapter film screening of "Boycott."  In addition to the film, learn about NAACP membership. Bring snacks.  All ages welcome.

Tuesday, 5-6:30 pm, Municipal Hall, Lobby, Ready Montco and the GPS tracker for snow plows. Sign up event to get added to the email/text or phone notifications through this county system. The sign up will take less than 5 minutes. More information please call 610-270-0429.

Tuesday, 5-7:30 pm at Municipal Hall rear (police station). Open Office Hours with Chief Talbot and Captain Clowser. Do you want to express concerns or just chat? This is your chance to interact with Chief Talbot and Captain Clowser during open office hours.

Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Municipal Hall, Council Workshop.

Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 pm, at Norristown Library. Police COMPSTAT, a meeting that Chief Talbot and his leadership team use to discuss the crime strategy and their effectiveness in implementing the strategy. Open to the public.

Thursday, at 5:30 pm, in front of Theatre Horizon. "Be A Light." Everyone is welcome; bring any source of light (flashlight, candle, phone, etc.)  In each time zone across the country, people will gather at this time outside of theaters to create a "light" for dark times ahead, and to make and renew a pledge to stand for and protect the values of inclusion, participation, and compassion for everyone regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, (dis)ability, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Next Friday, January 20, 5:30-7 pm at Centre Theater (208 Dekalb). "The Death and Rebirth of the Schuylkill River." FREE PROGRAM.  An evening of spirits and history, as the Schuylkill River Town Program presents a fact and fun-filled program about the Schuylkill River, from its role as lifeblood of the Industrial Revolution and the “workshop of the world”, to a fiery open sewer, and finally to its recent rebirth as 2014 River of the Year and home to bald eagle and shad. Learn the incredible story of how the river has shaped our community and the nation. Beforehand, sample products from Norristown’s Five Saints Distillery and Conshohocken Brewing Company.

Next Saturday, January 21, 6-9 pm at Elmwood Park Zoo, Canopy Garden Hall. Tiaras & Ties: Father-Daughter Date Night. Dance the night away as you share a special night together featuring snacks, games, music and photo opportunities. Father Daughter Member Pair: $20, Father Daughter Non-Member Pair: $25, Additional Daughters: $10. each Go to this link to register.

Also next Saturday, 8 pm at Centre Theater. "Delinquent Comedy" by Starving Artist Prevention. $15.

Job-Training Classes will begin at the Montgomery County OIC (Arch and Basin) on February 6 for Certified Nursing Aide and Feb 13 for Customer Service/Sales. Requirements: Montgomery County resident, 18 years of age/older, HS diploma or GED, meets income guidelines, clean background and reliable transportation for CNA. For information, contact 610-279-9700 or www.montcooic.org

The Sewing Club of Ebenezer Methodist Church (234 E Spruce) is organizing a bus trip to the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, DC. The trip will be Saturday, April 22. $80 per person. If you're interested, call 484-674-5479.

Norristown River Update

It's been a while since I've reported on what's going on down at our riverfront. Half of Norristown is only vaguely aware that we HAVE a riverfront, or a river, for that matter. Meanwhile other communities like Conshohocken, Phoenixville and Manayunk have active groups advocating for more river recreation opportunities for their residents. Hey, Norristown, as summers get hotter, spending time down by, or on, the nice cool river is going to sound pretty inviting.

Currently, all our river recreation is centered at Riverfront Park (at the end of Haws Avenue) with events led mostly by the Dragon Boat Club of Norristown. One such event, very family-friendly, is this Saturday: RIVERFEST, from 2-6 pm. FREE event, with FREE boat rides in the dragon boats and outrigger canoes, cardboard boat judging contest and races, kids games and music. The DBC will have their grill fired up for hotdogs and other food for purchase. And lots of pirates will be wandering around. In fact, if you have an inner pirate, dress him/her up that day. Everyone is welcome. If you haven't been down to Riverfront Park, this is a great reason to visit.

One other thing, this Saturday, at 2:30 pm, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will open the new floating dock. Norristown Municipality installed this to make access to small boats easier. It's not just for the Dragon Club, but for the community--anyone with a canoe or kayak or rowboat can use it. You can fish off of it (just clean up after yourself, please--leftover fish guts and bait won't help others enjoy the river). You can just sit and dangle your toes in the cool water.

Another improvement you'll see Saturday is the Youth Dragon Boat Team. This was begun last spring. The kids trained and went on to medal in the races they attended. (In the photo above, that's GOLD medals the kids are wearing.) The Youth Team not only trains at the river, they participate in all kinds of fun activities ~ water balloon fights, tubing, etc. They do fundraisers through the year and they're currently working on a secret project which will be unveiled at Riverfest. They're always looking for new members. If you know a kid who might be interested, bring him/her along on Saturday.

One Youth Team member who turned 17 has decided to go on to train for Team USA. How cool would it be to have a native Norristonian on a USA dragon boat team at the World Championships? (It's not an Olympic sport yet, though there's been talk of including it.)

So there you have it, your river update. Come out Saturday and check it out for yourself. Bring your kids and your friends.

But also, start thinking beyond Saturday. Once the Lafayette Extension Project is completed and the section of our riverfront between Markley and Ford is opened for development, we can let developers tell us what that riverfront will look like, or we can start planning now what WE want for our riverfront. A walking path along the water? A picnic area? A fishing dock? A beach? A place to put in paddle boats? Maybe vendors for renting canoes and kayaks or selling food? A nice, inviting park the whole length of the riverfront, for our community to have and pass on to our children? And to entice visitors from communities without a river to come and spend money here?

Think about it. See you Saturday at Riverfront.

Family Fun, Biyaking, More Italian Food, Etc.

Another busy weekend, but the times are staggered so you could get to everything if you wanted to. The weather's going to be great. Get out and enjoy. 

Tonight, 6-9 pm, Family Fun Friday at Scag Cottman Park (Basin & Violet Sts). Movies, food, games and entertainment, for kids ages 6-13. Presented by Buck Jones in association with Main St. Water Ice. For info, call 267-774-1694.

Saturday starting at 8:30 am, BIYAK on the Schuylkill at Riverfront Park. Bike 4 miles from Norristown to Betzwood, Kayak back to Norristown. Bring your own bike. $35 fee includes kayak, paddles, safety equipment and snacks. Participants will learn about the the Revolutionary River and its role in the American, Industrial and Environmental Revolutions. Tickets and info at this link. Prior registration a must.

Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm at the Carson Valley Children's Aid Society (1314 DeKalb St), Norristown Police will be partnering with the Montco Office of Children and Youth in a "Fathers Matter" initiative called "Back To School Kick-off With Dads." They'll be giving away school book bags and other supplies while supplies last. Father or father figure must accompany all kids. Hot dogs, DJ, photos, fun.

Sunday starting at about 2 pm is the 2nd Italian Festival of the summer, indoors at Savior Hall, Airy St between Violet and Walnut. Hosted by the MSS Club. Procession after the 11:30 am mass, then music, pork sandwiches, fried pizza and lots of other food.

Sunday, 7-9 pm, FREE concert at the Elmwood Park Bandshell will feature "Where's Pete" this week. Music: 60's to today. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Refreshments available at concession stand.

Tuesday starting at 6:30 pm, Municipal Council Workshop in Council Chambers. No agenda yet.

You can make reservations now for the August 29 tour of Norristown’s historic Montgomery Cemetery. Tour will highlight and honor those who died in train accidents in the late 19th and early 20th century. Starts at 7 pm. Wine and cheese will be served in the Gatehouse after the tour. Tour cost: $10 per person. Participants must be at least 21. For reservations or more information: 610-272-0297 or info@montgomerycemetery.org.

Registration is now open for the 2015-16 year of classes at ACPPA Community Arts Center (506 Haws Avenue). They offer a variety of dance, music, drama and visual arts courses for kids age 2-13 and for teens and adults, and their prices are lower than you'll find anywhere else in the area.  Go to this link for more information and to register. 

Twilight on the River, plus Community Picnics, Parties and More

Tonight from 5:30-7:30 pm, head over to Riverfront Park after work and unwind for a fun and easy paddle along the Schuylkill River. This guided tour will depart Riverfront Park, located in Norristown, at Haws Ave and the river, will feature a history of the river and the roles it played in the American, Industrial, and Environmental Revolutions. The tour will take approximately 1.5 hours with an introduction to paddling for first timers. Open to anyone over 16 years of age. Cost: $30 per person which includes kayak, paddle, PFD (personal flotation device) and tour, or $10 per person if you bring your own kayak, paddle, and PFD. Go to this link for tickets and additional info.

Family Fun Friday tonight at Scag Cottman Park (Basin & Violet Sts) from 6 to 9 pm. Movies, food, games and entertainment, for kids ages 6-13. Presented by Buck Jones in association with Main St. Water Ice. For info, call 267-774-1694.

Also tonight at 7 pm at ACPPA (Haws Ave, in back of Grace Lutheran Church), all are invited to celebrate the creative accomplishments of their Summer ARTS Intensive students. Pay what you wish to enter, but save money to take home some tasty baked goods too.

Saturday, 10 am–noon, Photo ID clinic at the New Life Plaza, 25 E. Marshall Street.

Saturday starting at noon at Simmons Park (Oak St), Appreciation Day. This is a Community Day event. All ages welcome! Basketball games, DJ, Free food and water ice. Hosted by Khalif Wyatt, family and friends.

Also on Saturday, The Norristown Ladies Flag Football League will be hosting a pool party at the George Washington Carver Community Center, Jacoby St. This event is for everyone in our community. Kids will SWIM FREE and there will be free food, beverages, as well as GAMES during this day. For questions, please reach out to Latisha Howell or Ericka Wharton at norristownladiesflagfootball@yahoo.com. (There was no time listed on the notice I saw, so you might want to email and ask.)

Sunday 10 am-1 pm, Coffee Talk Artists Co-op, Open Mic.

Sunday from 2 to 5 pm, Elmwood Park Zoo admission is FREE to Norristown residents. Adults must show ID proof of residency and must accompany children. Go to this link for details.

Sunday through Thurday, 6-8:30 pm, Christ Church, W. Marshall & Noble. Free five evening Vacation Bible Camp for kids aged 4 through 4th grade. All welcome. For more info, call 610-275-3092.

Sunday, 7-9 pm, Flower Power - classic rock. Elmwood Park Bandshell. FREE concert. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Food available at the concession stand.

At last year's Night Out.

Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 pm, National Night Out. Block party for the entire community, hosted by local churches, with the Norristown Police and Fire departments, Municipal Staff and other community organizations. 1300 block of Willow Street. Food, Fun, Games, Music.

Due to the Natonal Night Out, this month's Municipal Council Meeting will be on Wednesday at 7:30 pm, Municipal Hall. No agenda yet.

Thursday from 5:30-7:30 pm, Kids Fair at the Elmwood Park Zoo, hosted by Sen. Daylin Leach and Mercy Suburban Hospital. FREE event but families must RSVP at 610-768-4200 or by email at kidsfair2015@pasenate.com

Next Friday, August 7, 5:30 pm, End of the Summer Talent Show at Eisenhower Middle School, 1601 Markley. Join Camp Xtreme as they put on a talent show for the community and parents! All members of the community are welcome to attend to see what our children have learned this summer and see what talent they have been practicing. Doors open at 5 pm and there will be a concession stand serving hot dogs and hamburgers. Camp Xtreme children eat free! 

Happenings Along The River

Riverfront Park's new paint job as seen from the trail.

Just a quick update today on the activity on the Norristown part of the Schuylkill River Trail and Riverfront Park before I run off to get my flu shot.

In the last few weeks, as most of you know, we had Riverfest, and as some of you don't know, there was an Audubon Center program at Riverfront and a meeting of the Norristown River Action Team.

As I've explained before here on the Diary, 3 towns beside Norristown along the Schuylkill have similar teams--Manayunk, Conshohocken and Phoenixville. If you go to the Schuylkill Rivertowns Facebook page, you can read up on what the other towns are doing. The purposes of the teams is to inform the users of the trail of what each community has to offer, so as to help revitalize the towns. Also they want to let residents of each town know about the trail and to create other recreational/educational opportunities along the river.

Our team includes me, Tom McGlynn (landscaper extraordinaire), Rich Rogers (representing our Arts community), Bill Caldwell, and members of the Dragon Boat Club from Norristown, plus users of the trail who work in N-town, and representatives from the PA Environmental Council (who sponsors the Rivertowns program). Other interested N-towners would be welcomed. We meet the 4th Wednesday of each month at 3 pm at Barton Partners on East Main.

So, what's in the works this month? We found that there's only one bench along the entire 2-mile Norristown stretch of the trail, so the plan is to build some new ones using warehouse palettes. This has already been done on other sections of the trail. The finished benches are brightly painted and become part of the Art Along The Trail initiative.

The Philadelphia Mural Arts people have been surveying walls along the trail in Norristown and Conshohocken for a suitable place to put a mural. We're hoping, of course, that they choose N-town. Keep your fingers crossed.

I learned that the Audubon Center at Mill Grove has been in our elementary schools, not only doing programs about birds, but also teaching kids about native plants and how they attract wildlife. One of the Audubon reps took a look at Riverfront Park last Saturday and thought they might be able to create a native plant reserve there as a tie-in to their school program. I love this idea, because Riverfront could become an environmental classroom, which would bring families down to the river.

Mallard ducks at Riverfront Park 

I was at Riverfront last Saturday morning and I have to say, it's an incredibly beautiful spot, especially on a nice sunny day. A few people around town, when I mention Riverfront, shudder and say they'd never go there because of all the drug and prostitution activity. The times I've been there in the last year, I've never seen any illegal activity. Now that members of the Dragon Boat Club are present most days, there's always people around, so the criminals have gone off to find a more deserted spot. You'll see fishermen. You might see people sitting on the benches, or playing checkers or cards (the regulars keep an eye on the park and report any suspicious activity back to the DBC).

I'd also heard that bicyclists on the trail pedal through the Norristown stretch as fast as they can, and never come into town. Last Saturday, I followed a group of 7 cyclists down Haws Avenue. They got on the trail right before Riverfront. So users of the trail ARE coming through town, and this is great news for our community. Businesses--restaurants, theaters--within a few blocks of the trail ought to consider making their places more bike-rider-friendly. Signs for amenities will eventually go up on the trail. We need to be ready and welcome these new visitors into town.

So that's the news for now. I feel like things are really starting to happen along the river. I wish it were more visible to the rest of town, but I'll keep reporting it as I hear it.

Owls, Flu Shots, a Big Sale, and Other Events

After last week's really full schedule, this coming week in Norristown seems very laid back, but there's still a lot going on, especially tomorrow. And this weeks' events are definitely NOT run-of-the-mill.

Saturday at 9:30 am, come to "WHOOO Are You Looking At?"--a FREE program about owls for kids and adults alike, presented by the John James Audubon Center at Riverfront Park (1 Haws Avenue). Learn about amazing adaptations that allow these creatures to soar the skies! Mounts, artifacts and even a LIVE BIRD will make this an event to remember. The show will last about an hour and be held outdoors, near the boathouse at the far end of the parking lot. Bring something to sit on. (Also, if you haven't see it yet, come check out the new paint job and other improvements in the park.)

Today and tomorrow are the last days for the Habitat for Humanity ReStore Sticker Sale. They sell new and used building materials to the public at discounted prices. At the sale you'll find up to 50% off items. Appliances, furniture, lighting, flooring, cabinets, tile, carpet, lumber, doors, you name it. All proceeds go towards Habitat work in the county. They're located at 533 Foundry Road, West Norriton. Call 610-631-3149 for hours and info. For info about the store or how to be a donor, go to http://www.habitatmontco.org/ReStore

Also Saturday and also at Riverfront, from 10 am to 2 pm, join students from Villanova University and the Schuylkill River Town Program for a trail and park cleanup at Riverfront Park. Lunch will be provided! If you are interested in volunteering, meet at the park at 10 am for instruction. Bring work gloves if you have them.

Also Saturday, but this time at Elmwood Park Zoo, from 11 am to 2 pm,  the Norristown Area School District Board of Directors, staff, our families, business, non-profit, and religious leaders, NASD alumni and other Norristown residents, will share "A Celebration of Education"--a fun-filled day and reflect on the importance of coming together as a community to support education in Norristown. Includes free food, games and activities, live musical performances and camaraderie. The event will be held rain or shine.

Tuesday from 10 am to 1 pm, the Montgomery County Health Department will be giving FREE flu shots to County residents ages 6 months and older at the Montgomery County Norristown Public Library. If you're on Medicare or have health insurance, please bring your card (you absolutely will not be charged--I've done this the past 8 years. It's easy). If you can't make the session on Tuesday, you can go to any of the other scheduled clinics throughout the county. For the 2014 schedule and more information, go to http://www.montcopa.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1998 .

A heads-up for next weekend, on Oct 4 from 9 am to noon, The Norristown Project and Chosen Ones Youth Group has scheduled a cleanup of Rapp Alley, Blackberry Alley, and Hurst Alley (between Stanbridge and Buttonwood, W Marshall and Oak). More info next week.

Another heads-up, so you can get your tickets NOW -- next Saturday, Oct 4, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm, come to "A Taste of Theatre: Centre Theater Fundraiser" at the theater on 208 DeKalb St. The Centre Theater will host an afternoon beer tasting. Food, fun and camaraderie while you support the Centre. Gretzky Brewery and Poor Yorick's Brewing will share some of their finest brews. Food from Zone Catering and Capone's in East Norriton. Hors d'oeuvres butler service provided by members of the students' musical theater at The Centre Theater. Tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple and can be reserved at this link . Call 610-279-1013 for info.

River Towns Meeting and Norristown Gardens

Two things today: a meeting coming up tomorrow that I hope some of you can make, and the winners of the Norristown Garden Contest.

First of all, there's going to a Regional River Action Team Meeting in Norristown tomorrow from 6-8 pm at 700 East Main, 3rd Floor. "Regional" means there will be representatives attending from Phoenixville, Conshohocken and Manayunk as well as Norristown. These are the communities along our regional section of the Schuylkill River Trail that have teams working on developing the recreational use of the river for their residents, and to enhance the economic development of their communities by bringing users of the trail and river into their towns.

Norristown has a pretty good team, but most of its members aren't N-town residents. They're mostly people who work in Norristown and/or use the Norristown segment of the Schuylkill River Trail, and members of the Dragon Boat Club (who are trying, almost singlehandedly, to develop Riverfront Park for the use of our residents). The Norristown team meetings have so far been during the day, and therefore difficult for some residents to attend, but this meeting is more accessible, so I'm hoping more of you will come out, if only driven by curiosity about the River Towns program and what it might do for our community's economy, and the promise of light refreshments.

700 East Main is the Rolling Mills Office Building. Park in the lot beside it or across Main St. The River Towns team does ask that you RSVP, which you can do by calling 215-545-4570 or by leaving a post on the Schuylkill River Towns Facebook page.

And now, announcing the winners of the Norristown Garden Club Contest. You might remember a few months ago when I urged residents to enter their gardens in the contest. I'm please to report that the Garden Club got over 40 entries from a total of 29 homeowners (some entered in multiple categories). The amazing thing is that so many gardens made such great use of small yards and side yards. And most of these gardens were the labor of love of one or two people. You don't need a lot of property or a landscaping company for a great garden. Norristown truly is a garden spot.

Below are the winners listed on the Municipality's Facebook page yesterday. Not sure if this is everyone or not. If more are announced, I'll pass their names along.

Front Garden: 1st place, Joseph Pavidus; 2nd, Marlene Tarloski; Honorable Mention, Michelle Shuler.

Rear Garden: 1st place, Shirley Goulbourne; 2nd, the Andrew Ely family; Honorable Mention, Marlene Tarloski.

Vegetable Garden: 1st place, Lucille Chisholm; 2nd, Olga Chin; 3rd, Charlotte Greer; Honorable Mention, Elena Santangelo (yeah, me).

Window Boxes: 1st place, Mary Jane Autry; 2nd, Victoria Szam.

Container Garden: 1st place, Joseph Pavidus; 2nd, Jennifer Autry.

Public Garden: 1st place, The Norristown Bocce League flower garden at Elmwood Park; 2nd Greater Norristown PAL's vegetable garden behind their building.

You can view photos of all the winners at this link.  You don't have to be signed into Facebook to view them.

Events for Memorial Day Weekend and Beyond

Remember this is Cleanup Norristown Week. At least take a minute to pick up trash on your front sidewalk. And weeds are easier to pull out today after the rain yesterday.

Hitchcock's The 39 Steps continues tonight at 8 pm at Theatre Horizon (Dekalb and Penn Sts.). I saw this show and HIGHLY recommend it. 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of 4), handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance! Tickets are $20-31. Performances also Saturday at 8 pm, Sunday at 2 pm, and next Thursday at 7:30 pm. Show runs through June 8. Call 610-283-2230 for reservations or visit the Theatre Horizon website. Click here to find out about free tickets for Norristown residents.

Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm, come to an outdoor Flea Market in the parking lot at DeKalb and Airy, sponsored by the Dragon Boat Club of Norristown and Norristown Business Association. You can park in the same lot. Besides typical yard sale items, new merchandise, crafts and works of art will be offered. Vendors spaces are still available ($20 a day, both days for $30). Contact dragonboatcrew@gmail.com.

Saturday at 9 am, join the The Norristown Project as they clean up Elmwood Park for the start of summer.. Just show up if you want to help.

Saturday night at 7:30, Coffee Talk (507 W Marshall) presents "Dan May--Short Stories and Songs", with special guest Tom Hampton. Tickets $12. Call 610-272-4811 for info.

Sunday at 3 pm, The Norristown Project will be in Riverfront Park, helping with the cleanup there. Volunteers are welcome. Work gloves might be a good idea.

The Summer Concert Series begins this Sunday at the Elmwood Park Bandshell at 7pm. This week features Wildflower, a funk and groove band, homegrown in Norristown. The concerts are free. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Sponsored by The Arcadia Foundation. Food/drinks available at the snack stand. Any questions call 610-270-0467.

On Monday at noon, the W. S. Hancock Society will present a Memorial Day Ceremony in Hancock Square (the public square next to the courthouse at Swede and Main) at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. The Winfield Scott Hancock Award will be presented to Paul Koons. Music by the Norristown Chorale.

Tuesday morning, 8:30 to 9:30, The Norristown Business Association will have their monthly meeting at Caffe Galileo (317 Swede St.). If you own a business in Norristown, or you're self-employed here, like me, you should join this group. Guest speaker will be Joe Januzelli, Municipal Codes Manager. Please RSVP at: info@norristownba.org

Tuesday night is the May Zoning Board Hearing at 7 pm. The agenda is already online. http://norristown.org/userfiles/file/events/1293.pdf  Questions, contact Jayne Musonye, Director of Planning and Municipal Development, 610-270-0450.
  

Wednesday afternoon at 3 pm, the Norristown Schuylkill Rivertown Action Team will meet at Barton Partners, 700 E Main St, Suite #301. The Team is looking Norristown residents who want to be involved with promoting Norristown to the users of the Schuylkill River Trail and recreational development of the Norristown segment of the river. If you're interested, contact Lizzie Hessmiller at lhessmiller@pecpa.org.

Thursday night,  5:30-7:30 pm, the Small Business Assistance Center will present a free workshop on "Becoming Bankable- Traditional and Creative Ways to Finance Your Business," focusing on how to get capital to grow your business. The event will be at the Norristown Public Library (Swede and Powell). Please register for the event at this link. For info, contact E. Scot Fields, at 610-277-4455. 

More events on the calendar links in the column to the right. One caution--the town calendar listings for Theatre Horizon and for the Flea Market have wrong times and/or are confusing. Go to the links I listed above for correct info.