Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Ponderings on a hot day

Today I was engaged in a heated "discussion" about federal politics (surprised?  I wasn't) and the exchange was almost laughable when it came down to it.  But it made me think about things on not only a national level, but a local level as well.  As many people know a proposed mosque is to be built in NYC near Ground Zero and many people are quite against this endeavor, but the government will not take a solid stand either way.  Many politicians that represent both that area and on a national level have been very wishy washy as to what can and cannot be done even when the opposition is strong.  Then here, we are in our little burg of Johnsontown and we have been TOLD that a new road will be built right through our park.  There are those of us who live here who are not all that thrilled with the idea and mainly because we have not been clearly informed as to what this will entail, but it appears on the surface that we have no choice because local government has deemed it so.  Nothing wishy washy about a new road right through our park, but no one in office will come out and take a stand (either way) on a building that will effect the area for millions, not just a few hundred.  How lopsided is that?  How is it that a local government, right or wrong, can make a decision and stand on said thought while the national government will make a statement, backpedal, obfuscate and any other adjective you can think of?  Makes you wonder doesn't it?

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Oh What A Night!!

    Last night August 3,2010 The Johnsontown Community Group hosted the First Annual Johnsontown National Night Out at Johnsontown Park from 6-8PM and it was a rousing success!  During the evening we were joined by approximately 120 people flowing through the park.  Neighbors got to meet some of our elected officials, join and or get involved with us in JCG, meet the local police and fire departments and enjoy food provided by Chick-Fil-A and participate in a few raffles for gift certificates and money.

    This is the first year we were able to participate and it was bigger than anyone thought, so next year should be even bigger and better.  Many thanks go out to Minquas Fire Company, Downingtown Police, Mayor Josh Maxwell, Representative Curt Schroder, Foster Boys, Dog House Burgers, the many volunteers and of course Melinda Winkler who is the JCG Events Chairperson and Nick Winkler who worked his mandibular magic with the local businesses.

     I know I am looking forward to next year!
Bird's eye view of the park
Council Member Bob Smith
Rep. Curt Schroder
Council Member Ann Feldman stopped by