Letters
More Greens
in future Thanks
to Michael Mishak for noting that I received 15 percent of the
vote in Chestnut Hill in the 8th District Council race (Northwest
Ensures Street Reelection, November 13, 2003). Readers
of the Local might also find it interesting to know I
received 26 percent of the vote in West Mt. Airy and 51 percent
of the vote in my home division (22nd Ward, 1st Division).
It's not a revolution, but it's still a good start for
a new party in the Northwest. In the months and years
ahead you can expect to see more Greens running for
office and more Greens active on important local issues
such as the R8 train and Wissahickon Park. Those
interested in learning more about the Green Party should
surf to www.gp.org
. Put
hardships in perspective I have watched the Chestnut Hill Local’s “From
our Readers” section over the last couple of weeks fully
expecting to see many letters complimenting and congratulating
many for their efforts behind the completion of the extraordinary
new Germantown Avenue Bridge. How unfortunate that the first
letter written refers to the efforts of so many as “inexcusable.”
Criticism occurs far too easily. Contribution to the greater
good takes far more thoughtfulness. All of the comments I have
heard thus far have been purely complimentary. The opening ceremony did refer to the extraordinary length
of time it took to build the bridge, and of the inconvenience
caused. However, “inconvenience” and “hardship”
are a matter of perspective. I certainly don’t see something
like having to drive an extra couple of miles as either. There
are far greater hardships in this world that many have to endure.
Driving around a detour is hardly one. If anyone wants to complain
about slow traffic, they should address that regarding over-development.
As many have probably noticed since the bridge’s opening,
slow traffic in the area has not necessarily changed. The flow of traffic could be improved, however, if an adjustment
were made to the timing of the light at Germantown Avenue and
Bell’s Mill Road. Currently the traffic light seems to
remain on the timing set to accommodate the flow of traffic
over Bell’s Mill Road while Germantown Avenue was detoured.
Shortening the Germantown Avenue red light and lengthening the
green would certainly help the flow of traffic into Chestnut
Hill, especially now that there is minimal northbound traffic
from Bell’s Mill to this intersection. Additionally, returning
the sign to eastbound Germantown Avenue, which once read no
left turn onto northbound Bell’s Mill during both morning
and afternoon hours, would help this. Traffic making this left
turn in the afternoon often causes traffic to back up almost
all the way back to the bridge. Finally, I don’t believe that the “vast majority
don’t care” regarding the appearance of the bridge.
The care and thoughtfulness that went into the construction
of the new Germantown Avenue Bridge is clearly evident and many
are genuinely appreciative. The new bridge is simply gorgeous
and embraces the beauty and historical value of this area. Many
have told me that it brought tears to their eyes as they crossed
it for the first time. Most importantly, it is well constructed
and contributes greatly to a better world. It was well worth
waiting for. I would like to say thank you to ALL who played
a part in its final outcome. In the Belgian block, replicated
railing, stately lampposts and Brazilian rosewood walkway, the
vision and appreciation for value by all will last through the
years and all have become a part of history. This bridge, which
is new today, tomorrow will be historical! Salute caregivers November has been designated as National Family
Caregiving Month. It
has been set aside to acknowledge those selfless persons who
squeeze into already busy schedules the time to care for loved
ones or friends-in-need. You know who you are.
Perhaps your caregiving began with a once a week visit
to “check in on” Mom or Dad, Uncle Jim or even your
elderly next-door neighbor.
Maybe it progressed to cooking the week’s meals
to be sure they were receiving some quality nourishment or driving
to an endless number of doctors’ appointments to deal
with health problems. Just when they moved into your home or you into
theirs may now have faded into history.
But when the caregiving had to include bathing, dressing,
and maybe incontinence care, is etched in your memory.
Sleepless nights, missed days at work, or “staying
in” instead of “going out” have been accepted
as a part of providing loving care. The Staff and Caregivers of the Chestnut Hill Office
of Griswold Special Care know many of you and see first hand
the sacrifices you make each and every day.
We are honored to be of assistance to you and your loved
ones by being your eyes, ears, and hands when you need to be
at work, away for a much needed respite, or just physically
unable to provide hands on care. National Family Caregiving Month is hardly adequate
to recognize the depth of your compassion.
But it is a good time for us to join your loved ones
in honoring and saluting you during this special time.
Happy National Family Caregiving Month, |
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