Conshy Courier ~ December 2017

Conshy Courier

FREE Vol 2 No. 12 December 2017

Conshohocken’s Mayor-Elect Yaniv Aronson​

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CONTENT 4–8

9

School Spotlight Business

10-11

Sports

12-13

Feature Story

14-15

Financial

16, 17

Community Events

18-19

Taste of Conshohocken

20

Food

21

Classifieds

22

Before You Go

You may send your letters to The Editor at: Info@MontCoMedia.com, or through our website at www.MontCoMedia.com

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Conshy Courier FREE

Vol 2 No. 12 December 2017

Mayor Elect Yaniv Aronson and fiancé Sarah MaGlinchy

Conshohocken’s Mayor-Elect: Yaniv Aronson

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 3

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Diamond To Play Lacrosse At Georgetown Plymouth Whit emarsh High School senior Ali Diamond has signed a letter of intent to pla y lacrosse at Georgetown University in 2019. Diamond, a threesport star wh o also plays soccer and basketball for the Colonials, has started at attack the fi rst three years of her varsity lacrosse car eer. She was the Colonials Offensive Pl ayer of the Year last season and was named First Team All Suburban One League A merican Conference after

scoring 54 g oals and adding 34 assists.

Diamond ente rs her senior season with 160 goals and 80 assists for her career.

Photo: Seated (l to r): Lisa Diamond, Ali Diamond and Ken Diamond.

Standing (l to r): John Cooley, Beverly Cooley and Kenny Diamond.

Kolkka Will Play Lacrosse At St. Joseph’s Plymouth Whi temarsh High School (PWHS) senior Sophie Kolkka has signed a letter of intent to play lacrosse at St. Joseph’s Uni versity in 2019. Kolkka has started at m idfield each of the first three seasons of her varsity lacrosse career. Her junior season was cut short by injury after just one game. She enters her senior season

with 75 goals and 41 assists. Kolkka also played field hockey for PWHS. Photo: Seated (l to r): Connie Kolkka, Sophie Kolkka and Paul Kolkka.

Standing (l to r): Niko Kolkka, Stefan Kolkka, Callie Kolkka and Griffin Kolkka.

Betterly Signs To Play Lacrosse At Christopher Newport Plymouth Wh itemarsh High School (PWHS) seni or Victoria Betterly has signed a letter of intent to play lacrosse at Christopher Newport University in 2019.

Betterly has been a starter each of the first three years of her varsity career. She played atta ck, midfield and defense last season and was named the Colonials Most Valuable Pl ayer. Betterly was named Second Team All Suburban One League

American Co nference after scoring 44 goals and adding 17 assists last year. She has 77 goals and 34 assists for her career.

A three-sport standout, Betterly also plays soccer and basketball for PWHS. Seated (middle): Victoria Betterly

Sullivan To Play Lacrosse At Steven’s Tech Plymouth Wh itemarsh High School senior Bren dan Sullivan plans to play lacrosse at Steven’s Institute of Technology in 2019. This spring, Sullivan will start on attach for the fourth straight year. He has 86 goals and 36 assists for his career. Sullivan was named team All-Suburban One League American Conference as a junior.

“Brendan has been an offensive four for us since he was a freshman,” said Colonials Head Coach Bryan Greg. “We rely on his 4 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

ability to create on the offensive end.

He has an i nnate ability to finish around the net.”

Seated (l to r): Angie Olsovsky, Aaron Olsovsky and Joe Olsovsky.

Standing (l to r): Head Coach Bryan Gregg and Assistant Coach Ryan Zehren.

PWHS Defensive Standouts Choose Kings College For Lacrosse Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) seniors Aaron Olsovsky and Andrew Trainer have chosen to play lacrosse at Kings College in 2019.

Oslovsky is a three-year starter on defense for the Colonials.

“Aaron has been an incredibly consistent, fundamentally sound player for us the past three years,” said PWHS Head Coach Bryan Greg. “He has been a staple in our solid defensive group.”

Trainer is a two-year starter for the Colonials.

“Andrew is a strong defensive player who has spent much of his time running at Long Stick Middie, which is one of the most difficult and important positions on the field,” said Coach Greg.

Seated (l to r): Paulette Trainer, Andrew Trainer and Drew Trainer.

Standing (l to r): Head Coach Bryan Gregg, Rita Lynn Trainer and Assistant Coach Ryan Zehren.

PWHS Senior Taylor O’Brien Signs With Bucknell University Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) senior Taylor O’Brien has signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Bucknell University following this coming season. O’Brien, a 5-foot-9 guard led PWHS to a 22-0 regular season record and the Suburban One League American Conference (SOLAC) title last season. The Colonials advanced to the District 1 Championship game and the quarterfinals of the PIAA Class 6A Championship.

PWHS ended the year with a 27-3 record,

tying the mark for most single-season wins in school history. O’Brien eclipsed the 1,000 career point mark during the season.

She led the Suburban One Conference in scoring with 663 points and was the only junior named First Team All- State.

Seated (l to r): Joe O’Brien, Taylor O’Brien, Tishara O’Brien.

Standing: Plymouth Whitemarsh Head Coach Dan Dougherty.

Bike Raffle Winners Announced!

Congratulations to fifth graders Azlyn Ortiz Grossman and Nick Davis, winners of the Colonial Elementary School National School Lunch Week Bike Raffle.

The raffle was sponsored by the Food Services Department as one of many fun activities that took place at each of Colonial’s seven schools during National School Lunch Week from October 9-13. Students in grades K-3 voted among eight candidates to be a new cafeteria mascot.

The winner was Walter Melon who made a late charge to edge Hip Banana in the vote of more than 1,300 students.

Lucky students at the high school and middle school won a Fitbit.

Shown are (l to r) are: Jerry Grossman (Azlyn’s grandfather), Azlyn Ortiz Grossman, Sharon Iacovino (CES Head Chef), Rose Rock (CES Principal), Kylene Phillips (CES Assistant Principal), Nick Davis and Kim Roth (Nick’s mom).

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 5

WES PTO And Eagle Scout Build Outdoor Classroom In the Colonial School District, learning takes place inside -- and outside -- of the classroom. For students at Whitemarsh Elementary School (WES), a formerly unused courtyard has been transformed into an outdoor classroom thanks to the WES Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and Eagle Scout Jordan Santoli.

“This was my elementary school. I have fond memories of my time here,” said Santoli, a 2017 Plymouth Whitemarsh High School graduate who is now studying software engineering at Drexel University. “It’s good to be able to give back to the people who’ve helped me along the way.”

Santoli led a team of close to 25 scouts who spent approximately 250 man hours renovating the space. They built tiered benches for “stadium seating” along two brick walls and turned industrial electrical spools into brightly colored tables with stools.

“It was good that we could use recycled materials,” the scout said. “The spools were going to get thrown into a landfill, but we were able to bring them here and make something great with them.”

Behind the scenes, WES’s Second Grade Teacher Alan Mizgorski and Library Media Specialist Cathy Campbell originated the idea, and parent Ellen Glendinning kept the ball rolling by bringing the project to the PTO, communicating with Colonial School District facilities staff and organizing the finances for the project.

“Many thanks go to the faculty, the Whitemarsh Elementary community and the PTO for donating money, and thank you to the many local businesses that donated supplies or food for the workers,” said Glendinning.

l to r: Scoutmaster Richard Walsh, Assistant Scoutmaster Tim Peterson, Cathy Campbell, Jordan Santoli, Ellen Glendinning, Nate Barone (Colonial School District facilities), Donna Drizin, Alan Mizgorski and Mike Dougherty (WES Head Custodian) WES Principal Donna Drizin noted that the outdoor classroom could be used to host shared reading and social studies lessons, as well as science experiments that focus on nature and the environment.

Whitemarsh Elementary School officially opened the outdoor classroom at a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on October 30.

PW Renovations Completed Colonial School District School Board members former Board members, administrators and students cut the ribbon celebrating the renovation of Plymouth Whitemarsh High School on October 7.

“Anyone familiar with the way the building was three years ago may not recognize it now,” said PWHS Principal Dr. Jason Bacani a 1993 graduate of the school. “When the School Board began this project, they said it was time to bring the quality of the building in line with the quality of our instructional programs and our students’ high level of achievement. That has definitely been accomplished.

“We feel like we are in a new building,” he added. “When people come through the new entrance, walk the clean bright hallways, see our state-of-the-art, climate-controlled classrooms and visit our new central cafeteria, they will definitely feel PW Proud!”

School Board President Susan Moore, also a PWHS alumna, was pleased with the way the building turned out. And, speaking at the ribbon cutting ceremony she noted that the School Board saved a considerable amount of taxpayer dollars in renovating the building.

“Some people have asked why did we renovate that old building, why not just build a new one,” Mrs. Moore said. “As a school board, we are proud of the fact that we have this building at a savings of $80 million or more in taxpayer money compared to the cost of building a new school.

6 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

“The first thing we did four years ago was to complete a structural review of the building,” she added. “That review revealed that the integrity of the building core was solid and should last another 60 years or more. And, just as important, the layout of the building was found to be conducive to 21st Century learning. Renovating the building was the most cost effective, environmentally sound and financially prudent way to go. Building a new building would have cost at least three times as much.”

The main phase of the $40 million renovation took just over two years to complete.

Celebrating Veterans!

The Colonial Board of School Directors voted unanimously not to seek exceptions to the Act 1 Index for the 2018-2019 school year. The move means the District cannot raise property taxes above the published index for the year. The Act 1 Index for 20182019 is 2.4 percent. Colonial is eligible to receive exemptions for PSERS payments and special education costs that would allow the

A living History Lesson

Board to raise taxes above the index. However, for the third straight year, the Board has chosen not to exercise that right.

The move means the District does not need to follow the expedited Act 1 budget timeline which requires the approval of a preliminary budget in January. The Board will approve a final budget prior to June 30, 2018.

PW Graduate Returns

Retired Corporal Ed Szostek, a veteran of the 23rd Marines, provides his account of 12 harrowing days of combat on Iwo Jima during World War II to (l to r) Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) juniors Carver Schildt and Francis Okonski and American History Teacher Bob Culp. Mr. Szostek, 94, was awarded a Purple Heart in the campaign.

United States Army Command Sergeant Major Walter Balkiewicz, a 1978 graduate of Plymouth Whitemarsh High School spoke to a class at the school during a Veterans Day celebration on November 10. Mr. Balkiewicz is a veteran of campaigns in Kosovo, Desert Storm and two tours of Iraq. He later presented a flag that flew over camps in Kosovo and Iraq to (l to r) Assistant Principal Steve Price, Assistant Principal Heather King, American History Teach Bob Culp and Principal Dr. Jason Bacani.

Happy Birthday Veterans November 10 marked the 242nd birthday for the United States Marine Corps. Marine Corps tradition has the eldest marine present taking the first bite of the cake and then passing it to the youngest marine in attendance. During a Veterans Day celebration at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS). Corporal Ed Szostek, 94, a veteran of Iwo Jima, enjoyed a bite of the first piece of cake before passing it to PWHS Dean of Students and PW Academy Coordinator Dan Balek, 46, retired Marine Corps Corporal E4. Assisting Mr. Szostek is his granddaughter, Alexandra Griffin, a 2011 graduate of PWHS. The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.

Corporal Ed Szostek enjoying the first piece of cake.

—Douglas MacArthur December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 7

School Board Votes Not To Seek Act 1 Exceptions For 2018-2019 Budget The Colonial Board of School Directors voted unanimously not to seek exceptions to the Act 1 Index for the 2018-2019 school year. The move means the District cannot raise property taxes above the published index for the year. The Act 1 Index for 2018-2019 is 2.4 percent. Colonial is eligible to receive exemptions for PSERS payments and special education costs that would allow the Board to raise taxes above

the index. However, for the third straight year, the Board has chosen not to exercise that right.

The move means the District does not need to follow the expedited Act 1 budget timeline which requires the approval of a preliminary budget in January. The Board will approve a final budget prior to June 30, 2018.

2018-19 School Year To Start After Labor Day The Colonial Board of School Directors voted unanimously to establish Tuesday, September 4, 2018 as the start date for the 2018-2019 school year. The vote came at the Board’s monthly business meeting on October 17.

The Board generally sets the start date of the following school year early so that parents may plan vacations. The Board will consider the entire school year calendar this winter.

PW Serves Up Veteran’s Day Luncheon

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www.MontCoMedia.com Publisher Teresa Parris Editor Brian Hanna Social Media Editors Mackenzie Breinlinger Ciara O’Callaghan Columnist Yaniv Aronson Alayya Arrison Contributors Walter Ault Katie Kohler Sarah McGlinchy Graphic Designer Terry Seale

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Plymouth Whitemarsh High School welcomed 16 veterans representing all branches of the military to school on Friday, Nov. 10. The veterans visited classrooms, attended a celebration in the auditorium and enjoy lunch compliments of Mission BBQ.

Mailing Address: P O Box 543 Conshohocken, PA 19428 610-825-3300 FAX: 800-230-7494 Info@MontCoMedia.com

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—Alexander Hamilton 8 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

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BUSINESS

David’s Bridal Partners With The PWHS Internship Program

Jennifer Hausmann from David’s Bridal talked about the different areas of the company that students may want to explore.

One in three brides in America gets married in a gown from David’s Bridal, an international chain that has more than 300 stores -- and its corporate headquarters in Conshohocken. It takes a large and varied workforce to run, stock and support the growing operation, and students at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PWHS) will have a chance to explore the different areas as part of the school’s internship program.

“I think that a lot of kids, when they think of retail, think they can work at the window at McDonalds or as a cashier at Macy’s,” explained Jennifer Hausmann, Merchandising Communications Manager and Special Projects Manager for David’s Bridal. “For a retail company as big as ours, the opportunities are really endless.

They can do anything from being a professional photographer shooting on location in Mexico to working in our accounting department and matching up invoices and working to optimize the finances of the company.”

Recently, representatives from David’s Bridal came to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School to talk about the company and share some of these opportunities with students who will be taking the internship class in the spring.

“An internship gives them a head start. They are our future workforce, and it’s really good to get them engaged now before they start college, because then they can get an idea of what they want to focus on in college,” said Marissa Sanders, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Special Occasion Area. “At David’s Bridal, we really like to give back to the community. When I heard about this program, I thought it was a great opportunity for us.”

In addition to providing internships in merchandising, marketing, human resources, finance and IT, David’s Bridal will also offer tours and job shadowing to PWHS students interested in those areas.

SPCA Annual Animals Holiday Dinner The Montgomery County SPCA will host its Annual Holiday Dinner for the Animals on December 20th at 10:00 A.M. The event will take place at the Conshohocken Shelter, 19 East Ridge Pike.

Thereafter, all three shelters will receive their quota of Holiday Dinner in advance of the actual holidays.

For over half a century, the Montgomery County SPCA has dedicated itself to preparing a unique holiday meal for the sheltered animals. Mrs. Frances Frazier, working with the Main Line Auxiliary, originally began this meal to provide the animals with a special treat around the holiday season. The menu currently consists of ground beef, vegetables, and broth, all freshly prepared at our shelters.

Mrs. Noma Ann “Cricket” Roberts is the chairperson of our special holiday feeding program. Ms. Barbara Lord will assist

Mrs. Roberts with the formal serving on December 20th at our Conshohocken facility. In addition to the kennel dinner for the dogs and cats, special treats will also be available for both our large and small animals. There will be several opportunities for photos and videos to be taken.

Mrs. Roberts will also have holiday gifts available for members and friends to purchase at holiday tables in the Conshohocken Lobby. Gift items for sale will include items for both humans and pets. The Holiday Sale Tables will be in the Conshohocken Lobby starting on Saturday, December 16. Sale proceeds will benefit the sheltered pets. Montgomery County SPCA sweatshirts and T-shirts will be included as some of the people-type gifts.

For further information on this event, please contact Steven Conway at (610) – 825 -0111 ext. 34.

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 9

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Jim Donofrio Inducted Into Montgomery County Coaches’ Hall Of Fame

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By Gordon Glantz, Columnist

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Topped off by a state title in 2010, the resume of Plymouth Whitemarsh boys’ basketball coach Jim Donofrio, aka Coach D, was simply too overwhelming for the selection committee of the Montgomery County Coaches Hall of Fame to ignore. Therefore, he entered rarified air as one of four coaches inducted November 21, 2017, as part of the MCCHOF’s Class of 2017, its 16th overall.

He was joined by Methacton softball coach Cathy Miller, Souderton volleyball coach Will Lapp, and well-traveled girls’ basketball coach Tom Lonergan (currently at Gwynedd-Mercy Academy after previous stints at Bishop McDevitt and Central Bucks East). The banquet also included honoring four community coaches (Rob Bond, Sam Gallen, Rod Vaughan, and Ralph Panzullo) and a Lifetime Achievement Award for former NFL coach Mike Pettine, Jr., whose recently deceased father, Mike Pettine, Sr., was a Conshohocken native who went on to become a coaching legend at Central Bucks West.

It was a spirited evening at Normandy Farm in Blue Bell, with more than 400 attendees laughing and crying and providing more than one standing ovation. Donofrio, for his part, captured the full spectrum of emotions in his acceptance speech, and later joked that, as an English teacher, he knew he had no choice but to set a high bar for himself.

Following in the footsteps of former PW coaches and past inductees Hank Stofko (state title in 1963) and Al Angelos (1997, with Donofrio as an as-

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sistant), Donofrio’s message was that success on the court came from more than just basketball tunnel vision. While all of his players may not be in the National Honor Society or bound for Harvard or Yale, Donofrio insisted that he generally sees more attentive eyes at basketball practice – even when the subject of discussion isn’t strategy – than in English class. While championship banners and accolades are nice, Donofrio speaks of the “underlying reason” that he “gets out of bed in the morning,” which is to coach his players in the game of life. Of all the success stories of players, one rises above – or at least epitomizes – the others.

It is the story of a 2007 graduate, Lance Wilson. “Lance is the only four-year starter we’ve ever had,” reflected Donofrio.

“He showed great leadership ability at a young age, and was a talented point guard as well as quarterback. He grew up in Conshohocken on Hector Street and ended up with a full scholarship valued at $200,000 to Division III Hamilton College, one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the country. It’s proof of the power of athletics for that kid with a single parent – like his mom, Debbie – working two jobs trying to provide for her children.

“Division III doesn’t give athletic scholarships, but through the visibility Lance gained from sports, his reputation as a well-rounded student-athlete impressed so many people that it ultimately drew the attention of Hamilton, which offered full leadership-type scholarships to kids from around the world who otherwise would never even be continued on page 11

JIM DONOFRIO continued from page 10

Al Angelos and Coach Jim Donofrio able to dream of being able to pay for such an education,” Donofrio continued. Though heavily recruited by Division II schools, and even some at the Division I level, Hamilton opened doors for Wilson, who now is a successful mortgage broker. Said Donofrio: “Professional athletes get pampered, and sometimes can give sports a bad name, but we often forget what athletics has done for a lot

of kids. We’ve had a number of our players start out with little in life and end up bettering themselves, and the game of basketball did that. Lance is one of my favorite stories because he defied the stereotype that it takes a certain pedigree, GPA, and SAT score, to be accepted and successful at the more prestigious institutions.

Hamilton has to be given credit for opening that door, and

Lance has to be given credit for accepting the challenge.”

These individual triumphs do not find their way onto Donofrio’s resume, but they are the ultimate validation. “Winning is great,” he said. “State titles are special, but there is the stuff under the surface. You start to accumulate these stories, and you like to think you had a part in that – in seeing kids who were told they were not that smart go and get their degrees.”

Perhaps success stories like that of Wilson’s resonate more with Donofrio because of his own background of beating the odds.

Donofrio’s father was the legendary Albert C. Donofrio, longtime director of the Fellowship House and namesake of the annual basketball tournament that attracts the best players from the extended region while under the watchful eye of college coaches. When he was 13, Donofrio’s father died, and his mother, Dorothy, was left to raise three boys and work many part-time jobs, just like Wilson’s mother. Donofrio got

what he calls a “quick reality check” when he couldn’t follow his own hoop dreams to Lycoming.

After playing for Stofko at PW, Donofrio only got a taste of college basketball for one season at Montgomery County Community College before going on a non-traditional path, being a part-time student working his way in fits and starts with a series of forgettable jobs. “I had to grow up fast,” he said. “There was a lot of pressure on me. It was an interesting life lesson in expectations.”

The life lesson, specifically?

“It taught me to have empathy for kids, and it became a big part of how I deal with kids,” he said. “I came to appreciate what a poor kid is going through. To be honest, I don’t know if my English students learn as much in my class as my basketball players learn from playing basketball. They are all ears. So, it’s a serious opportunity to influence people, and I take it seriously every day.”

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 11

FEATURE STORY

Yaniv Aronson Beats Incumbent Frost in Mayoral Race

By Gordon Glantz, Columnist There is a perception about Rotary Clubs that they are pretty much organizations geared toward middle-aged and older men.

The Conshohocken area’s chapter was no different when Yaniv Aronson, 35, was tasked with changing that perception in his adopted hometown, heading a nighttime group geared toward young professionals.

“It exploded,” he said. “We became the youngest, most femaleoriented Rotary in the region – if not the whole country.”

Little did he know that the experience set the native of Blue Bell and graduate of Wissahickon High School on a collision course with a burgeoning political career that presently has him as Conshohocken’s mayor-elect. “I never thought it would happen,” he said. “But I thought I might do some good here.”

Calling his ascension, a “magical thing,” he began becoming a regular at council meetings and learned that being mayor was not a ceremonial post that equated to “being the queen of England.”

A Film/Video teacher at Northeast High School in Philadelphia, and at Montgomery County Community College on weekends, Aronson said he “had a different vision from what it has been.”

A grassroots campaign that began last winter with he and girlfriend Sarah McGlinchey knocking on doors, culminated with a record-setting turnout on Nov. 7, and a narrow victory – 1,165

to 1,027 (140 votes) – over venerable incumbent mayor Bob Frost.

“We started running last February,” said Aronson, who resides on West 4th Avenue. “We were door-knocking ever since. Some residents really took to it. It came down to differing visions.”

As psyched as he was by the triumph, the narrow margin was enough cause for pause. “I do understand that,” explained Aronson. “Bob Frost was well-liked and well-respected, as he should be. The residents were comfortable with him. That’s why we made sure we engaged with residents who were here for decades.

“At the end of the day, I’m now the mayor of and for everyone, and all views are going to be equally respected.” Aronson added that putting in “face time” while perpetually on the campaign stump with McGlinchey by his side was the “fun part.” Now, it is time to roll up his sleeves and get down to work.

If there was time for a touchdown dance, it was brief. While he was initially focused on building upon many of Conshohocken’s “really cool” longstanding traditions – Fourth of July Soap Box Derby, Car Show, St. Patrick’s Day Parade -- by incorporating successful activities seen in nearby revitalized towns like Ambler continued on page 13

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12 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

YANIV ARONSON continued from page 12 and Phoenixville and Media, getting to know the residents led him to several common issues that would involve “working hand in hand with all departments” while helping the town’s plethora of small and unique businesses promote themselves through social media.

He also came to realize that one issue all Conshohocken residents seemed to agree on, whether it is crossing busy Fayette Street as a pedestrian or using the bike trail, was safety, specifically for traffic and pedestrians. As such, he “hammered home the message of public safety” during the campaign. “Safety has to come out on top,” said Aronson. “We have so many young families coming in. We put a safety paper out. Once it was out, people were talking about it.”

With PennDOT plotting changes, Aronson said he “wanted to be in the room for that conversation.” He added there are “some really cool ideas,” such as “better lighting” and places where temporary stop signs need to become permanent ones, such as the one just approved at West Sixth Avenue, and improved signage along the Schuylkill Valley Trail. “There are also going to be two new buildings down by the river,” he said. “It’s on us to be ahead of that. We need to have good visibility for bikers and drivers.”

While some may see Aronson as a carpetbagger and part of the town’s new wave of young professionals, he wants to make it clear that he fell in love with the town that seemed like a natural fit for him from the outset.

“A lot of my friends ended up in Conshy,” said the Penn State graduate. “It was an easy landing spot. There was a running club and a built-in social network. It seemed like a good fit for me.”

The bond with the community will only strengthen with his vision for arts festivals, dining under the stars events, movies in the park, and continuing to make the borough increasingly pet friendly after the recent addition of a dog park in Mary Wood Park.

Anita Barton, Conshohocken Council Member for Ward 4 expressed excitement about Aronson’s vision for the community, saying: “Yaniv is exactly the type of Mayor that Conshohocken needs: active, energetic, and willing to listen. The future of our borough benefits from that type of positive leadership.” That sentiment was echoed by Mackenzie Breinlinger, a Conshohocken resident who also works in the borough. “I had never had a candidate knock on my door before and he came to speak with me four or five times,” said Breinlinger. “It’s a pretty special town when you can meet candidates and elected officials face-to-face.

Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas Holiday shopping can be a source of stress for anyone, but particularly for procrastinators.

Need some last-minute gift ideas? Think about readily accessible, yet thoughtful items that don’t require a lengthy shipping process.

Let these five ideas help solve your eleventh-hour giftgiving woes.

1. DIY-It. DIY gifts can be heartfelt, and many items can be made in a pinch. Bake a tray of Christmas cookies and tie them up with a bow; make seasonally scented homemade candles; or knit a scarf. The possibilities for crafty folks are endless.

2. Get Accessorized. Don’t get stumped. Consider a classic fashion accessory, such as a Casio Vintage Watch, which can be found in many national retailers, in a range of affordable prices. Functional and fashionable, these waterresistant timepieces that feature both an alarm and

stopwatch will complement an array of style preferences.

3. Head to the Box Office.

Quickly check the schedule of your gift recipient’s favorite band, team or theater company for tickets to an experience, such as a musical, concert or game. This thoughtful gift can be purchased and received in an instant, thanks to e-ticketing.

4. Pamper Them. The holidays are stressful. Help your loved ones unwind during a busy time of year. Consider a gift certificate for a spa or beauty treatment somewhere local to your recipient. The gift can be enjoyed exactly when it’s needed most.

5. Let Them Pick. When you’re really in a pinch and you’ve waited until the last minute, don’t stress. A gift card can be a great way to show you thought of someone, without having to spend too much time or energy in search of the perfect item.

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 13

FINANCIAL

By Joanna Craney

Estate Planning Tools

Planning. It’s an important part of nearly everything we do in life. And if we’re smart, it will be a part of what we do before we die.

Planning for your eventual death means finding answers to such questions as: • How can you reduce your estate tax liability and avoid the costs, delays and publicity of probate?

• How can you help ensure that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes?

• Who should make financial and medical decisions in the event you become incapacitated?

Answering these kinds of questions beforehand is more than just being considerate – it’s important to the people who depend on you: your family, your employees and your customers.

By making plans before you die, you can help ensure that your business, your assets, and the people who are important to you, are protected. And isn’t that how it should be?

Wills and Trusts Wills and trusts are two of the most popular estate planning tools. Both allow you to spell out how and to whom you want your property distributed, but both can also go well beyond that.

A properly drawn will can allow you to determine how your property will be distributed, and can give you the opportunity to select an individual who will oversee that your wishes are carried out - your executor. Through your will you can also name a guardian for your minor children – a decision you, and only you, should make. If you die without a valid will, or if you fail to make such designations through your will, the decision will probably be left

Wa nte d

to the courts. Bear in mind that property distributed through your will is subject to probate, which can be costly and time-consuming. What’s more, probate is public process. That means anyone, even if they aren’t related to you, can see how and to whom you left your estate.

Trusts differ from wills in that they are actual, legal entities.

Like wills, trusts spell out how you want your property distributed.

But trusts go a bit farther, letting you decide not just how, but when and in what form, your estate is distributed. Trusts also give you the added advantages of professional property management and avoidance of probate.

Wills and trusts are not mutually exclusive. While not everyone with a will needs a trust, individuals with a trust should almost always have a will.

Durable Power of Attorney Incapacity brought on by sickness or age can pose as big a threat to your financial well being as death. Fortunately, there are tools that can help you deal with this threat.

A durable power of attorney is a legal agreement that enables you to designate who will make any legal and/or financial decisions affecting your finances should you become incapacitated.

Unlike a standard power of attorney, a durable power of attorney remains valid even if you become incapacitated.

Health Care Proxies and Living Wills Similar to a durable power of attorney, a health care proxy is a document that can allow you to designate someone who is authorized to make health care decisions on your behalf, again, should continued on page 15

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14 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

ESTATE PLANNING continued from page 14 you become incapacitated. The person you designate can generally make decisions regarding medical facilities, medical treatments, surgery, and a variety of other health care issues. Much like a durable power of attorney, a health care proxy involves some important decision making. Take the utmost care when choosing someone to give this kind of authorization.

A related document, a living will, spells out the kinds of life-sustaining treatment you will (or as important, will not) permit in the event of your incapacity. The decision for or against life support is one that only you can make. That decision alone makes the living will a valuable estate planning tool. And you may use a living will in conjunction with a durable health care power of attorney.

• Insurance policies • Titles and deeds • Wills and trust documents Laws will vary from state to state. Please consult your tax advisor or financial advisor regarding your particular situation.

This information is for educational purposes and should not be considered specific financial, tax or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified advisor regarding your individual circumstances. © 2016 The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, Philadelphia, PA 19172 www.pennmutual.com.

Content prepared by Penn Mutual.

1582848RM-Aug18

Final Thoughts Without proper planning, estate taxes and medical expenses could consume a substantial portion of everything you own. If you’ve been putting off this important planning until “time permits”, consider making the time now. You, and everyone who depends upon you, will be glad you did.

Estate Planning Tips Keep all of your important financial and legal information in a central file for your executor. Be sure to include: • Letters of last instructions • Medical records • Bank/brokerage statements • Income and gift tax returns

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 15

OUR COMMUNITY EVENTS

To be included please submit your listings online at MontCoMedia.com by the 15th of the month prior to publication or email us at Info@MontCoMedia.com with any questions, or call us at 610-825-3300.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Last day to submit to your essay to our “It Can Wait” essay contest, then take the pledge online.

The We Will ROCK CF (WWRCF) annual fundraiser event to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at the Spring Mill Firehouse Conshohocken, PA 19428. 7:30 PM11:00PM. Info: Tiffany Maguire; 6103312632 Email: tiffj8@gmail.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Winter Wonderland at the Community Centre at the Fel, 515 Harry Street. 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Santa around town by the Conshy Fire Department. 1:00 – 4:00 pm. Listen out for the sirens. They will also be accepting new/ unwrapped toy donations while on route WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13 Holiday Senior Luncheon at the Community Centre at the Fel, 515 Harry Street 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Info: 610-828-3266 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 At William Jeanes Memorial Library Kids’ Picture Book Club at 4:00 to 5:00 PM for snacks and a lively discussion featuring a variety of picture books. Book titles to be announced and available for check-out prior to club meeting. For ages 7-11 years of age.

Info: 610-828-0441.

Montgomery LGBT Business Council Networking Party & Holiday Show at Gaya, 1002 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell, Pennsylvania 19422. 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 On December 16, 2017, over 45,000 people will volunteer at over 1,200 locations at home, at sea and abroad to place remembrance wreaths on over 1,000,000 veteran gravestones.

Conshohocken Cub Scout Pack 140 is proud to #JoinTheMission as a 2017 fundraising partner of Wreaths Across America for 750 veterans laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in West Conshohocken.

Your $15 sponsorship places a wreath to honor a veteran there this December 16th, #WreathDay. We would appreciate your support with this effort! You can help by donating a wreath, volunteering to lay wreaths and spreading the word.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19

Conshy Running Club annual ConsHOHOHOcken Caroling Run. For our annual caroling run, we jog to local bars and restaurants and sing Christmas carols for patrons and collect toys for the Colonial Neighborhood Council. Info: Conshyrunninginfo@gmail.com; www.conshyrunning.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20

Ongoing Events Mondays

Conshohocken Business and Professional Women Meets the 4th Monday of each month. Please visit website for more information at http://www.conshohockenbpw.org

KnitKnights, every Monday, 6:30pm.

The KnitKnights welcome knitters and crocheters of all ages and skill levels, including beginners, to join us as we meet, mentor, learn, show, and share. The Lower Level, Conshohocken Library, Fayette and 3rd Ave. The Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the William Jeanes Memorial Library (4051 Joshua Rd., Lafayette Hill). The CPW Rotary satellite club meets on Monday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on the second floor at Guppy's (2 Maple St., Conshohocken). For more information, please visit cpwrotary.com and facebook.com/ CPWRotaryClub.

Tuesdays Food Cupboard & Clothes Closet Ministries of The Historic St. John AME Church every Tuesday from 12:30pm to 2:00pm. 100 East Eighth Avenue Conshohocken, PA. For information contact 610-825-6089 Everyone is welcome!

LEGO Club is Back!! Collaborate and Create!! Tuesdays after school Ages 510 3:45-4:30pm

Kiwanis Club of Conshohocken meets at 7:00 pm Tuesdays at Andy’s Diner, Ridge Pike, Conshohocken. Contact: ConshyKiwanis@gmail.com.

Wednesdays WPBN/Conshohocken/Plymouth/ Whitemarsh Chapter meeting the 3rd Wednesday of each Month Register online at www.PWBN4Women.org.

11:30 to 11:00 at Guppy’s, East Elm and Maple Street, Conshohocken St Matthews Senior Group meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month at 12:30. Everyone is welcome to join. Lunch $5.

Adult Book Club @ Conshy Library 3rd Wed of each month 6:45-8 pm.

Intercessory Prayer Time & Ministry Fellowship of The Historic St. John AME Church meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month beginning at 6:45pm.100 East Eighth Avenue Conshohocken, PA. For information contact 610-825-6089 Everyone is welcome!

16 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

Save the Date FEBRUARY 2018 The Norristown NAACP will host its’ 2018 Black History Celebration in February, with a month long series of activities: Gospel Concert – February 3, Prayer Breakfast – February 10, Family Film Festival-Feb 17 and the culminating event our Awards Luncheon and Cultural Celebration will be held Saturday February 24, 2018 – 1:00PM at the Sheraton Hotel – King of Prussia, PA. The honorees for this year’s event will be local churches that have provided exemplary spiritual service to the greater Norristown community for over 100 years. In addition, some of which played a role in the local anti-slavery movement. Those churches are: Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, First Baptist Church of Norristown, Ebenezer Methodist Church and Siloam Baptist Church. 2018 will mark the Norristown Branch’s 60th year of service to this community. We hope you can partner with us on this momentous occasion.

We need your support to make these events successful. Proceeds will assist us in furthering our branch initiatives in the greater Norristown community. We would like to give your business/organization an opportunity to be one of our major contributors. The Event Sponsorship program has three sponsor categories, which are described on the attached form; and contributors will receive recognition in our event marketing activities, a full page ad in our souvenir program, and electronic signage (displayed at event) and dinner tickets determined by the sponsorship level selected. See attached form for clarification.

If you have questions regarding the Event Sponsorship program, please call Ernie Hadrick, Jr. 484-614 -0983. Our sponsorship drive deadline is January 20, 2018.

Make Checks/money orders payable to: Norristown Branch NAACP. Please mail completed form to: Norristown NAACP Black History Month Celebration Committee P.O. Box 201; Norristown, PA 19404

Thursdays The CPW Rotary The Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club meets Thursday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the William Jeanes Memorial Library (4051 Joshua Rd., Lafayette Hill). The CPW Rotary satellite club meets on Monday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on the second floor at Guppy's (2 Maple St., Conshohocken). For more information, please visit cpwrotary.com and facebook.com/ CPWRotaryClub.

The Montgomery County SPCA will host its Annual Holiday Dinner for the Animals at 10:00 A.M. The event will take place at the Conshohocken Shelter, 19 East Ridge Pike. Info: Steven Conway at (610) - 825 -0111 ext. 34 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 Happy Birthday Jesus!

Merry Christmas fromOur home to Yours!

OUR COMMUNITY EVENTS Conshohocken Library Events

Babies @ Library

Tuesdays @10:15 Tuesday 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26

ͲInvite Family members

Preschool—Thursdays @10:15

Please call to register!

12/7, 12/14, 12/21,

12/28 Invite Family members

LEGO Club Collaborate and Create!!

12/5,12/12,12/19 no LEGO club 12/26

Tuesdays after school Ages 5Ͳ10 3:45Ͳ 4:30pm

SPECIAL EVENTS CALL ~ 610Ͳ825Ͳ1656

Children’s Drop in Make and Take Winter Craft Sat 12/9 11:30Ͳ1pm Children’s Movie @ the LibraryͲ“Cars 3”Ͳ Friday 12/29 1:30pm

Adult events Friends Book Sale Sat 12/2 11Ͳ1pm Book Club Wednesday 12/13 6:45Ͳ8pm Ragtime by E.L. Doctorow

A few pictures from our Christmas Tree lighting ceremony

Santa arrived on Friday at about 7:30 pm on Friday, November 24th. He will be through the neighborhood on Saturday, December 9th. Let’s see who is on his naughty or nice list! Photo Credit: Jack & Brian Coll #CONSHYSMALLBIZ

11/25/2017

Council News

December 2017

Ike Griffin, President * Karen Tutino, Vice President * Robert Stokley, Senior Member Tina Sokolowski, Anita Barton, Jane Flanagan and Colleen Leonard Senior Members

NOVEMBER MEETINGS AND EVENTS

ZONING HEARING BOARD: - Monday, December, 4th @ 7:00pm; Borough Hall

COMPRESENSIVE PLAN TASK FORCE: Mon-

day, December 4th @ 6:30—7:30 ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COUNCIL:- Thurs- VOTING MEETINGS are televised the Thursday evenday, December 21st @ 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Borough Hall ing following the meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Comcast channel 965 and Verizon channel 20.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: - Thursday,

December 14th @ 7-9pm; Borough Hall COUNCIL MEETING: - 1ST & 3RD Wednesday December 6th & 20th @ 7 PM Borough Hall.

MUNCIPAL AUTHORITY BOARD MEETING: Tuesday, December 26th @ 6:30-8:30; 601 East Elm Street.

Borough Administration 400 Fayette Street, Suite 200, Conshohocken, PA 19428 Phone: (610) 828Ͳ1092, Fax: (610) 828Ͳ0920 Hours: Monday Ͳ Friday 8:30 a.m. Ͳ 4:30 p.m. citizenrequest@conshohockenpa.gov December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 17

Taste Of Conshohocken With Yaniv Aronson, Chair of the Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club

By Yaniv Aronson This is a continuing column highlighting individuals, businesses and charities that work to better our community.

Mark Petroski and Laura Masterson are the current administrators of the Conshohocken Running Club. The group meets at 6:30pm, Thursdays, at the Conshohocken Brewing Company Tap Room, 739 East Elm St, Conshohocken. Runs are also held at varying locations Tuesdays and Sundays. Check the club’s website and social media for information.

How long has the club been “running” and how has it evolved over the past few years?

Our Thursday social runs started in May 2014 at the Conshohocken Brewing Company. We started small, with a half dozen runners at first, and slowly grew into a group of 100+ on a typical summer night. Our Track Tuesday runs began in July 2014 and Sunday bRUNch runs began that October.

Can you tell us about your upcoming holiday events/runs?

This year, we had our Thanksgiving food drive run on Thursday, ovember 16, and our annual ConsHOHOHOcken Caroling Run

will be held on Tuesday, December 19. For our annual caroling run, we jog to local bars and restaurants and sing Christmas carols for patrons and collect toys for the Colonial Neighborhood Council. Each spring we also have a Schuylkill River Trail cleanup. continued on page 19

Turning Dreams Into Addresses

Binnie Bianco

Mobile: 484-576-7219 Work: 610-941-1008 Email: Binnie@Lnf.com Your Conshohocken Area Real Estate Agent 18 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

continued on page 11

TASTE OF CONSHOHOCKEN continued from page 18 Who can join the running club and where are the best places to get information about upcoming runs and events?

From the beginning, the club has been open to anyone who wants to join. Our motto is “all paces, all faces,” which really describes our group accurately. The biggest worry for people wanting to come out is that they think they are too slow, but we have people show up who span all running abilities. It’s definitely not a competition for who can run the fastest; it’s more about having fun, meeting new people and staying in shape. Social media is the best place to get information about our runs and events. Facebook is our primary way to communicate (CONSHY RUNNING) but we also have Instagram (conshyrunning) and our website is www.conshyrunning. com.

How do you see the running club, as a part of the Conshohocken community?

We help motivate people to run, exercise, do good for the community, and make new friends. People are more likely to run

if they have a fun group of people to do it with. We also have a mission to work with people and organizations from around the borough. We train with a local fitness coach, Kristy Campbell, who creates our Tuesday workouts. We also partner with local businesses such as Yoga Home, the Conshohocken Brewery, and Guppy’s for events. Members of Conshy Running also help to organize and run the Conshy 5K, which raises money for local charities including the Conshohocken Police Department.

What do you hope for the future of the running club?

Our group leadership has adopted a committee philosophy where we try to make decisions together and do what is best for all of our members. We hope this allows us to continue to attract new members to the club, put on great events, and make fitness a priority for the community.

Mark Petroski and Laura Masterson Administrators, the Conshohocken Running Club Conshyrunninginfo@gmail.com www.conshyrunning.com

Wreaths Across America ~ Conshohocken

On December 16, 2017, over 45,000 people will volunteer at over 1,200 locations at home, at sea and abroad to place remembrance wreaths on over 1,000,000 veteran gravestones.

Conshohocken Cub Scout Pack 140 is proud to #JoinTheMission as a 2017 fundraising partner of Wreaths Across America for 750 veterans laid to rest at Calvary

Cemetery in West Conshohocken. Your $15 sponsorship places a wreath to honor a veteran there this December 16th, #WreathDay. We would appreciate your support with this effort! You can help by donating a wreath, volunteering to lay wreaths and spreading the word.

CONSHOHOCKEN BOROUGH REPRESENTATIVES

Do you know who your Ward Representatives are? Who do you call when you have a concern? Here are your current representatives. Please reach out.

Ward 1 Karen Ann Tutino Vice-President 484-368-3658 ktutino@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 2 James (Ike) Griffin President* 610-828-4638 jgriffin@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 3 Tina Marie Sokolowski 610-828-4520 tsokolowski@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 4 Anita L Barton* 610-397-1581 abarton@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 5 Jane A Flanagan* 484-532-3866 jflanagan@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 6 Bob C. Stokley 610-636-7230 610-825-5363 610-825-1271 rstokley@conshohockenpa.gov Ward 7 Colleen Leonard 610-322-0386 cleonard@conshohockenpa.gov Mayor Robert S Frost* 610-828-6856 bfrost@conshohockenpa.gov Or, you may write to your Council Representative at the Borough e.g.

Mrs. Karen Tutino Ward 1, C/O Borough Administration 400 Fayette Street, Suite 200, Conshohocken, PA 19428 * This year we elect Council Representatives, the Mayor and our local Tax Collector. Council Members up for election are Wards 2, 4, 6 and 5 which was appointed last year when the seat became vacant.

Please get involved with the growth and development of our town, Conshohocken.

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 19

FOOD How To Host An Easy Holiday Party What Kind of Party?

First, determine whether you want a sit-down dinner or something more casual, like a cocktail party.

Buffets make dinner parties easy: You can get dishes out quickly and keep them warm while guests can help themselves.

For a stress-free cocktail party, stock the pantry and prepare hors d’oeuvres ahead of time. That leaves only an hour or two of prep on the day of your event.

Put Together a Guest List and Invitations Once you’ve decided what kind of party you’re going to host, determine the date, time, guest list, and menu. Then put together a list of people to invite and decide how you’re going to get the word out (you can send an invitation via email or post, or you can call guests). We suggest inviting your guests at least three to four weeks in advance if not sooner, as calendars fill up fast around the holiday season.

Easy Menu Ideas Now that you know what type of party you’re going to host and you have a guest list, it’s time to pick what you’ll serve. If you’re having a dinner party, use one of these easy menus, or pick and choose which recipes you want to use and create your own holiday menu.

Make-Ahead Appetizers If you’ve decided to host a cocktail party, put together a list of the appetizers you’d like to serve. We suggest using recipes that can be made in advance, which will save you time and energy on the day of the party.

Set Up a Self Serve Cocktail Bar The last thing you want is to spend your own party fixing drinks.

Set up an easy-to-make cocktail bar with precut garnishes, infused vodkas, and cocktail recipes so your guests can help themselves.

Make a List At least a day before, make a list and schedule of what needs to be made and when. Make sure to leave at least an hour before the party starts for any last minute emergencies, and, of course, to get ready and relax before your guests arrive.

Decide on Decorations When it comes to decorations, think small. Save space for food by displaying low arrangements of blooms in lieu of a large centerpiece. Use small accents, such as gilded nuts, to fill any empty spots on the dining or buffet table.

Prep Ahead of Time Make as much of the food and drinks ahead of time as you can.

Of course, some things cannot be made beforehand, but try to get 20 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

all of your prep work done as early as possible. If you’re organized and have everything ready when the party starts, you’ll be better able to attend to your guests.

The Bar Set up a separate station (in another room or area if possible) for drinks. Stock it with both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage choices, ice, cocktail napkins, and appropriate glassware.

Easy Serving For a pretty (and easy) presentation, use oven-to-table servingware to help keep food warm, rather than glass or metal baking dishes. If you don’t have these serving dishes on hand, label what you are using ahead of time so you know exactly where everything goes when it comes out of the oven.

Enjoy!

Last but not least, enjoy yourself! If you are having a good time, your guests will have a great time as well.

Look for more ideas on www.MarthaStewart.com.

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FOR CREDIT CARD CHARGES, FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT COMPLETELY: Name: _____________________________________ MasterCard Visa Discover Billing Address: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________ Credit Card # _______________________________ Expiration: _______ CV Code ____ Signature Required: ___________________________________ $40.00 Minimum Charge

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Ads may be submitted online or mail to: www.MontCoMedia.com MontCo Media LLC 610-825-3300 P O Box 543 Conshohocken PA 19428-0543

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December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 21

BEFORE YOU GO

Christmas Cheer

By Pastor Bradley E. Lacey, First Baptist Church at Conshohocken “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” So wrote Charles Dickens in his classic novel, A Tale of Two Cities, published in 1859. Some things never change, not even 158 years later!

It has been a rough ride as of late, hasn’t it? We are immersed in a poisonous political climate, are being fed more and more revelations of what has been called “toxic masculinity,” and are given cause for more profound concern over, on the one hand, the antics of terrorists who want to kill us and overseas tyrants who want to obliterate us, and, on the other, the travesties of racial divisiveness within and social control over our nation.

It doesn’t stop there, though. Quality continues to decline on all levels. Respect and propriety, those societal barometers by which we may take a societal pulse, are at an all-time ebb without any flow but wrong-ways. And, as the Bible gave caution a long time ago, good is now being branded as evil, and evil is being proffered as good.

Now the good news: It’s the season of Christmas! And Christmas, it must be said, is hard-pressed to let us down, at least not if its core Constituent has anything to do with it. Dear reader, please don’t miss what has been affectionately and poetically described as “the Reason for the Season.”

November gave us reason to pause and to give all-warranted honor to our veterans. These men and women have literally put their lives on the line for the benefit of us back home. Whole families and communities have experienced the trauma of the battlefield. We stand in honor of our stalwart soldiers who have sacrificed so much to keep us free, and who are the primary agents of the defense of Western civilization; frankly, the American soldier, as a collective, should win the Nobel Peace Prize.

We were also given reason to thank Almighty God for His many, multi-faceted, and variegated gifts to all of us. The Thanksgiving Table is an eminently charming way by which we may thankfully celebrate His abundant provision. Winston Churchill once remarked amidst the besetting trials of the 2nd World War that, without courage, all of the other virtues were meaningless. He was correct within the context of his times, but for us, I believe it more true to say that all of the other virtues are without any value if we aren’t first-and-foremost grateful to God for His many blessings.

Our Founding Fathers weren’t perfect, but in this one respect they give guidance to us – They expressed gratitude to God, and they did so with elegant language, exquisite penmanship, and heart-felt sentiment. We would do well to follow their lead.

December affords us reason to give thanks to God on behalf of a fallen world for His gift of a Savior. His name is Jesus Christ, and His life and work has made such a difference.

It is a troubling fact that the mere mention of His name proves so troubling to so many. It’s as if He is some kind of pariah; certainly, 22 | Conshy Courier| MontCoMedia.com | December 2017

amongst the elites and the college-educated, and many of our youth who have been subjected to an increasingly secular education. It was the same in His day though, especially amongst those who should have known better; namely, the religious leaders.

Some things never change, and that includes Jesus. We are told that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever” (Hebrews 13.8). This means that His character doesn’t change, nor His Word or His purpose, and neither does the bent of His heart – He loves us; folks; He loves us with an undying and all-consuming love. He Himself said that “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends,” (John 15.13), and He proceeded to go and do just that – die for us and in our place, bearing our sins with His crucified life so that we could bear the mantle of His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5.21). And all for the simple yet profound reason that He loves us!

How Is Love, Sweet Love.” That was in 1965, and like then as like always, the world needs love right now, but it must be more than merely sweet. It has to be authentic. It has to be truthful. It has to be willing to forbear and to endure and even to sacrifice, else it is anything and everything but love. It can’t settle for mere “like,” nor can it serve as camouflage for unbridled lust. And (Yes!) it must be holy if it is to penetrate our sin-infested world.

Such a love has been given to us by Almighty God. It is His Christmas gift to you. Allow me to open it: “Now there were shepherds nearby living out in the field, keeping guard over their flock at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were absolutely terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid! Listen carefully, for I proclaim to you good news that brings great joy to all the people: Today your Savior is born in the city of David. He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a vast, heavenly army appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people with whom He is pleased!’” (Luke 2.8-14).

It’s the best of times amidst the worst of times – Praise Him and Merry Christmas to you!

December 2017 | MontCoMedia.com | Conshy Courier | 23