A Hidden Treasure in Pottstown: A Review of Gatsby's Pub

From the moment I stepped into the SunnyBrook Ballroom's grand entrance, I knew I was about to embark on not just a meal, but an enriching historical and gastronomic journey. The expansive ballroom, which greeted me first, hinted at tales of grand events and historic performances, setting the stage for the layers of history and warmth that make up Gatsby's Pub.

A stroll down the nostalgic hallway served as a time capsule, as I absorbed the rich history of this Pottstown gem, captured in the framed images that tell tales of laughter, music, and vibrant gatherings of yesteryears.

Upon reaching Gatsby's Pub, I was embraced by its charming ambiance, an enclave where the past meets the present in the most delightful manner. The welcoming atmosphere was heightened by the pleasant demeanor of the General Manager, a testament to the hospitable spirit of this establishment.

But the true magic unfurled as I sat down to share a meal and stories with Joel Richardson, the visionary owner responsible for reviving the SunnyBrook Ballroom, Gatsby's Pub, and SoulJoel's Comedy Club. Our conversation drifted to a storied organ that resides within these historic walls. Joel shared a personal yet enchanting tale of when he first acquired the establishment, adding another layer to the tapestry of passion and dedication that fuels the continuous success and revival of this historic beacon. (If you can convince him to share the story, make sure you drop in and ask! Chills, for sure!)

The culinary experience mirrored the rich narratives that echoed through the halls. The SoulJoel's Cheeseburger and Fries were nothing short of a gastronomic delight. Each bite was a symphony, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that arguably make it the best burger in the area, a true gourmet revelation that stunned and satisfied in equal measure.

My visit was further enriched by overhearing a snippet of a pre-interview between two women reminiscing about the old pool that once graced the property, adding a personal touch and a sense of community that seems to permeate every nook and cranny of this place. The story they shared promised more delightful narratives to come in a forthcoming podcast, adding yet another chapter in the evolving success story of this Pottstown treasure.

Gatsby's Pub is not merely a dining venue; it is an adventure through time, an embrace of community, and a culinary haven that stands as a testament to the vibrant history and promising future of Pottstown and Pottsgrove. If you haven't had the chance to visit, you're missing out on a rich, immersive experience that seamlessly blends history, community, and gourmet delight. A visit to Gatsby's Pub promises more than a meal; it offers a memorable journey that beckons to be revisited, time and time again.

Retro Con 2023: The Premier Destination for Toy and Gaming Enthusiasts

The unparalleled Retro Con is gearing up to make a grand return this 2023, setting the stage to be bigger and better than ever!

Mark your calendars for September 9th and 10th, will be hosted at the esteemed Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA. This year, the event is upscaling to the expansive Hall A, boasting a sprawling 67,000 square foot exhibition area, ready to be the playground for all things retro!

Prepare yourself to explore over 275 tables brimming with a plethora of retro collectibles. From iconic toy lines and action figures such as Transformers, GI Joe, and Star Wars, to timeless classics like ThunderCats, MUSCLE, and MASK, it's a collector's paradise! And that's not all - avid gamers, comic enthusiasts, and LEGO aficionados will find their niche with offerings spanning video games, comics, board games, and more. As the yearly rendezvous point for collectors, missing out is not an option!

But Retro Con is not just a showcase, it's an immersive experience! The event is a hub of excitement featuring guest appearances, engaging panels, riveting contests, and exclusive raffles. Step into a vibrant atmosphere where cosplay meets vintage cars from iconic TV shows and movies, coupled with free-play video gaming zones - a haven for anyone with a soft spot for geek culture.

Despite the grander scale, the event will remain a reasonably priced experience. Entry fees are set at $20 for Saturday, $17 for Sunday, with a special weekend pass available in advance for just $29. Good news for families too - children aged 12 and under can enjoy all Retro Con has to offer for FREE, accompanied by a paying adult. Plus, parking is on us at the expo center!

You’re invited to get in the retro spirit with us! RetroCon is eager to welcome returning and new attendees to the newly expanded hall. If you've enjoyed RetroCon events in the past, please spread the word to friends and family alike. It's time to embrace the nostalgia at Retro Con 2023!

Massive Manhunt Underway: Escaped Convict Cavalcante Sends Shockwaves Through Chester County

Last week, convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante managed to escape from a Chester County prison by climbing a wall topped with newly-installed razor wire, an event detailed in a recent press conference led by interim warden Howard Holland. The escape mirrored a similar incident from May, and has led to the administrative leave of a guard who was in an observation tower at the time of Cavalcante's escape.

The incident, which caught significant media attention, particularly in Cavalcante's home country of Brazil, has initiated a large-scale manhunt, forcing the closure of schools and the prominent Longwood Gardens in the suburban Philadelphia area. Cavalcante, who was serving a life sentence for murdering his ex-girlfriend in 2021, has been sighted five times since his escape, with the most recent sighting near Longwood Gardens, indicating that he might have evaded the initial search perimeter established by law enforcement.

The ongoing search has brought a wave of apprehension in the local community, with residents urged to maintain heightened security measures and vigilance amidst the efforts to recapture Cavalcante.

19-Year-Old Pleads Not Guilty to Charges in Alleged Retaliatory Shooting of Innocent Bystander in Montgomery County

In recent proceedings in a Montgomery County courtroom, 19-year-old Damien "Dee Dee" Wilson pleaded not guilty to charges including first and third-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of an innocent bystander, Anthony Vitelli, 47, during an alleged attempted retaliatory attack on another individual. The incident, which took place on October 7, 2022, is currently under investigation, with video footage and witness statements suggesting it might have been a retaliation linked to a previous altercation where Wilson was injured.

Prosecutors have decided not to pursue the death penalty in this case, even if Wilson is found guilty of first-degree murder. Instead, they may seek life imprisonment or a maximum sentence of 20 to 40 years if Wilson is convicted of third-degree murder. Wilson's defense is led by James Patrick Lyons from the county’s Office of Public Defender. Wilson, whose arrest was facilitated without incident by the U.S. Marshals Service on May 25, 2023, will await further trial developments as the year progresses.

ARTICLE

Upcoming Local Events

• Trivia Thursday’s at Gatsby’s Pub - SEPTEMBER 7TH, 7-9PM

• Keith Robinson headlines at SoulJoel's - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 7:00 PM

• East Coast Reptile Super Expo - SEPTEMBER 9TH - 9AM - 4:30 PM

• Coffee and Convo-Sea of Tranquility - SEPTEMBER 9TH, 11:00 AM

• Retro Con: Retro Toy and Gaming Show - SEPTEMBER 9TH, 10AM - 5:30 PM & SEPTEMBER 10TH, 9AM - 4 PM

• 9th Annual Doggy Day Dips at Amity AC Pool - SEPTEMBER 9th, 10AM-2PM

• Monarch Fire Company OPEN HOUSE - SEPTEMBER 9TH, 10AM - 1 PM

• Mickey and Minnie Mouse Dance Party - SEPTEMBER 9TH, 3:00 PM

• David Lucas debuts at SoulJoel's w/ 2 shows - SEPTEMBER 9TH, 7:30 & 9:00 PM

• FARM, HOME & YOUTH FOUNDATION CAR SHOW @Montgomery County 4H Center - SEPTEMBER 10TH, 10AM - 2 PM

• Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage - SEPTEMBER 10TH, 11:30AM - 1PM

• Special Event: Swing Dance Party w/ Dibbs and the Detonators - SEPTEMBER 10TH, 3:00 PM

• Kurt Metzger returns to headline SoulJoel's inside SunnyBrook - SEPTEMBER 10TH, 8:00 PM

• Greg Gutfeld Coming to Santander Arena - September 16th, 6:00 PM

Got an upcoming event you want us to share?

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PHILLIES

Schwarber's Majestic Homer Leads Phillies to Victory over Padres

Hold onto your hats, sports fans, because Petco Park was just the epicenter of a homerun earthquake courtesy of the one and only Kyle Schwarber. That's right, folks, Schwarber decided to send a baseball into a low orbit, practically knocking on the space station's door, with a 465-foot leadoff moonshot that quite frankly, we're still waiting to come back down to Earth.

But wait, there's more!

Zack Wheeler and his band of merry relievers decided to play spoiler to the Padres' big-ticket offense, handing out three-hits like they were going out of fashion. It seems the Phillies were feeling rather generous, doling out victory vibes like candy, securing the season series 5-2. Meanwhile, the Padres, well, let's just say they're not really getting a great return on their recent ‘$250 million investment’. Maybe they should consider diversifying their portfolio?

Ah, but let us not forget the hero of the day, Schwarber. In a move that was basically the baseball equivalent of smashing a guitar on stage, he smashed Michael Wacha’s 2-1 pitch for a record-breaking 41st homer of the season, making Jimmy Rollins' 2007 record look like child's play. Wheeler couldn't contain his excitement, gushing like a fanboy about the thrill of Schwarber's high and deep homers. It's like a rock concert out there, folks!

Meanwhile, J.T. Realmuto was not about to be left out of the fun, adding his own homer to the party, while Bryce Harper decided that his 0-for-20 skid was quite enough, thank you very much, hitting a two-run double that had everyone wondering, "where has this guy been?!"

But, the pièce de résistance was Wheeler's sterling performance, playing the Padres like a fiddle and leaving them dancing to his tune with one hit in six innings. Even the Padres had to admit, the guy was "throwing the ball great." It was a performance so good; we half expected Wheeler to take a bow at the end.

And let's not overlook the Padres' valiant efforts, epitomized by Fernando Tatis Jr.'s shift from the right field to second base in the ninth. Oh, the drama, the tension, the slight fumble that robbed us of a double play. It was Shakespearean, truly.

Now, with battered wrists and injured feet plaguing the Padres, they prepare to face the Brewers, led by their shining knight, Blake Snell. As for the Phillies, it's Miami next, with Christopher Sanchez leading the charge in what we can only assume will be another installment of baseball's greatest rock concert.

So grab your popcorn, sports fans, because the show is far from over!

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