The weather had been sunny and warm when Eddie left Florida just the day before. But now it was dark and cold inside the truck. Eddie held on — the only thing he could do — not even knowing where he was going. By the time the truck reached its destination in southeastern Pennsylvania, the cold had nearly taken its toll. When they finally found him, Eddie’s body was nearly lifeless. Would he make it?
Making the decision to admit a loved one into a nursing home can be a very stressful and confusing process. Not only must you handle the details involved in the physical move, but you must also navigate the paperwork and financial side of the admissions. Nursing home admissions agreements can be complicated and confusing. When presented with the nursing home admissions agreement, many do not realize the importance of carefully reviewing these agreements. It is important not to rush into a decision to sign the agreement, but rather to carefully read the agreement. If possible, you should have your attorney review the agreement before signing it.
Take It Outdoors Adventures, a recreational outfitter and service company based in Pottstown, is providing summertime programs to help the community experience the Schuylkill River beyond paddling.
Sometimes, country roads do more than take us home; they fuel the soul and restore us back to whole, especially after an unsettling period. The Bavarian Inn Resort & Brewing Company www.bavarianinnwv.com , Shepherdstown, West Virginia's elegant, European enclave, accomplishes this feat. And it makes the perfect haven to call home, while exploring not only Shepherdstown, the state’s oldest town as well as nearby charming and historic locales like Harpers Ferry and Charles Town, West Virginia, plus Frederick and Antietam, Maryland. Civil war and history buffs will appreciate touring these historic towns, and at the same time, experience the vibrancy of a college town, since Shepherdstown is home to Shepherd University.
During quarantine times this past year, Lois Volta and Jessica Sabo, co-owners of The Volta Way, saw how their unique domestic service was making an even greater impact on their clients via Zoom sessions as they were restricted to their homes.
Whenever I talk with my friend Matias, we almost always start out with a gardening update. Matias is perhaps more passionate about growing plants than anyone else I know, and it’s fun to hear what new things he’s got going on in the botanical world. He’s constantly adding new plants to his collection and figuring out how to provide the microclimate they need. He also enjoys experimenting with growing things from seeds.
PLYMOUTH -- Fancy having a goat amble across your back or stand on your shoulders? They say it’s a great way to soothe a troubled spirit and relax tight muscles.
Skippack -- The Center for Loss and Bereavement will host a Fields of Hope fundraising event, July 15-20, 2021 at the Smith Farmstead, 1415 Kriebel Mill Rd., Worcester, Montgomery County, where fields of stunning sunflowers have been planted to raise awareness and hope for those dealing with grief and loss.
What a great way to spend a summer evening! At these outdoor movies and drive-ins, you get to see a favorite flick, enjoy the company of your neighbors and watch the kids catch fireflies. Most are free. Bring your own chair or blanket, popcorn, food and drink.
Married couple Aaron and Emma de Long are using their passion for agriculture to connect community members with local growers and providers.
What do you do when a heat wave comes and you don’t feel like toiling outside in the intense warmth and humidity? Here, my husband Charlie and I enjoy watching the wildlife that comes to the yard
PHOENIXVILLE — Forge Theatre will present "Independence Day at Happy Meadows" this weekend.
A General Durable Power of Attorney (POA) is an extremely important estate planning document. This document allows a competent adult to appoint an agent to act in their place with regard to their financial affairs if they would become incapacitated or be incapable of managing their finances for any reason. Without this document, the family may be required to file a Guardianship proceeding to have the individual adjudicated an incapacitated person, which can be costly and time consuming. A POA can be either immediate or springing. An “immediate” POA takes effect as soon as it is signed, while a "springing" POA only takes effect when the individual becomes incapacitated. The problem is that springing powers of attorney create a hurdle in order for the agent to use the document. When presented with a springing power of attorney, a financial institution will require proof that the incapacity has occurred, often in the form of a letter from a doctor.
“Delightfully different” Dunedin (done-ee-din, located in Florida), the often-stated words used by Julie Ward Bujalski, the mayor, best sum up what it’s like to both stay and live in this distinctive locale. It truly is an “eden” you’ll want to visit. After more than a year of “lockdown,” it’s time to start exploring what our great country has to offer.
One of the main motivations behind sisters Jolie Martinez and Ramona “Rae” Leap establishing their fitness studio, One Spark Fitness in Phoenixville, was to offer a supportive community.
Here in the Delaware Valley, we are blessed to live in a geographic area that typically gets plenty of rainfall. Of course, there can also be long stretches of dry weather, but there’s an easy remedy: We just open the tap to turn on a hose or sprinkler. In fact, in the 37 years I’ve lived here, I remember only one summer when we were put on drought restrictions. But because of a ready, seemingly limitless supply, it’s actually possible to forget just how important water is to our landscapes and gardens, and what a fragile resource it can be.
From Ambler to Ardmore and from Pottstown to King of Prussia, there’s no shortage of good eats in Montgomery Country. Or drinks. And to help restaurants, distilleries, breweries and wineries recover from the pandemic the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board has dubbed July, "Crave Montco Month." Throughout July, Montgomery County restaurants will offer discounts, promotions and special menus for in-restaurant dining, take out and delivery.
EAGLEVILLE — It was classic Charlie Brown. The Charles Schulz icon was discussing cloud formations with “Peanuts” pal Linus. Charlie asked the latter what he saw when he looked up, and Linus described impressions that ranged from a map of British Honduras to outlines of painter Thomas Eakins and Paul the Apostle. And you, Charlie Brown, what do you see, Linus questioned. “Well, I was going to say I saw a ducky and a horsie, but I changed my mind!” Schulz’s famous sad-sack replied.
POTTSTOWN — A new café is using organic juices and plant-based cuisine to give the community a healthy boost.
You’re probably familiar with Doc Martens, the 1940s-era, now-trendy, comfortable lace-up boots. But did you know that there’s another, earlier Doc Martin’s, one that has its origins in Chester County?
A Last Will and Testament is the most known estate planning document. However, a will is just one part of an estate plan. A will is a legally binding written statement directing who will receive your property at your death. It is also the way you appoint a legal representative (an Executor or Executrix) to carry out your wishes. Without a will, your estate is distributed according to Pennsylvania’s intestate law. Property distributed via a will goes through probate, which is the formal process through which a court determines how to distribute your property.
Norristown Summer Concert Series
PHILADELPHIA -- Einstein Healthcare Network launched the Jewish Health Resource Center (JHRC) dedicated to providing compassionate healthcare and resources that honor the traditions of the Jewish community. The JHRC operates in a range of medical and academic areas, including Jewish genetic disease prevention, staff training, community outreach, healthcare symposiums, and more. The initiative provides a platform for Einstein staff to understand Jewish customs and traditions so they can partner with patients, community members and local organizations to better treat and serve the Jewish population.
VALLEY FORGE — Washington Memorial National Carillon at Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge is bringing back the 2021 Frank P. Law Summer Carillon Concert Series.
Lakeside, mountainside, beachside or right in your backyard, a picnic is a summer treasure. You might be planning picnics or alfresco dining celebrations this summer. It will be a breath of fresh air to not be socially distanced. We wait all winter to enjoy some cherished moments outdoors under blue skies in the warm sun or under glittering stars. Next to the company of great friends and relatives, and perhaps an amazing view, a picnic ought to have great food and drink. It is usually a tradition to contribute a dish or drink for everyone to enjoy.
It’s Father’s Day this week, but like most of us who have already lost their fathers, I don’t need a special day to be reminded to think of my dad. In fact, I rarely step out of my door, into my garden, or onto a wooded trail without being reminded of him.
June is National Candy Month. But Nicole Marchozzi is consumed by all things sweet year-round. As a kid, Marchozzi dreamed of having her own candy shop. Two decades later, the 23-year-old Conshohocken native turned that dream into reality – with a twist – when she launched her Sweet Thangs Nut & Candy truck. The whimsical confectionery-on-wheels began making the rounds at community events and private parties this year, and Marchozzi calls it “a dream that has lived in my heart for almost my entire life.”
The Pennsylvania Montgomery County Chapter Democratic Black Caucus along with Community Partners is hosting its first Juneteenth Block Party Celebration.
With the beautiful, warm weather we’ve been having, farmers markets not only offer a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors getting access to fresh and healthy locally-grown produce, but also the chance to see some new and familiar faces from the community.
COVID restrictions are lifting and in-person events are back. Dining at restaurants, hugging family and friends, indoor and outdoor events are returning. The city just announced the line up for Welcome America and the Made in America Festival. Here’s a run-down of more in-person performances, festivals and other events coming up in Philadelphia and the surrounding region, including many free events.
The first official day of summer is June 20 but people are already taking advantage of sunny days by getting outdoors.
GLENMOORE — Maddie and Tae and Lily Rose will perform at Citadel Country Spirit USA, Philadelphia’s Country Music Festival, happening Aug. 27 to Aug. 29 at Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show Grounds.
I have a confession to make: I’ve been enjoying watching episodes of “Naked and Afraid” (Discovery Channel). I’ve always enjoyed camping — setting up my tent, building a fire, and cooking over an open flame. And I’m sure that an inherent instinct for self-sufficiency/survival is part of what inspires me to grow a portion of my food. I’ve often wondered what it would be like to live off the land. So, this series intrigues me.
Death is a difficult topic for many to discuss and plan for. Preparing for one’s death through the form of prepaid funeral arrangements can be beneficial. After an individual’s death, their assets are often inaccessible until the estate has been opened, which leaves family members needing to advance the costs of the funeral until the estate has been opened. The prepaid funeral is one way to make sure that your funeral and burial costs are covered. In addition to helping your family after your death, a prepaid funeral contract can be a good way to spend down assets in order to qualify for Medicaid.
To borrow the iconic “Friends” series catchphrase, Plymouth Township Day 2020 was the one COVID-19 canceled. Happily, Plymouth’s annual community fair is back – scheduled to take place in East Plymouth Valley Park June 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and marking its 30TH anniversary, albeit a year after the fact.
As I pen these words, I am compelled to speak out against hate. These words ring out in my heart, “When you see something, say something.” We have seen so much hate in our country and in our world. And it is time for people of all walks of life, of all faiths, to speak out clearly against any injustice.
After doing all of your shopping online for more than a year, are you longing to try things on? Did being cooped up inside make you want to spruce up your living space? Do you value locally-made products? If so, you’ll love the pop up shopping opportunities springing up around the region.
"Murder In The Cookbook Nook," "Gingerbread Cookie Murder," "On What Grounds, Do or Diner," "And Then There Were Crumbs," "For Batter or Worse," "Beyond A Reasonable Donut." What do these titles all have in common? They are just a sampling of the plethora of creative titles for a category of novels.
PLYMOUTH -- She jokes that it keeps her out of trouble. But judging from local response, Kim Robbins’ contributions to the public art scene in Conshohocken and Plymouth Meeting do way more than keep her on the straight and narrow.
It’s that time of year again! But this isn’t a celebratory story. These days, along with the return of warm weather we can also expect a new batch of spotted lanternflies.
There are lots of fun things to do in Philadelphia this summer - including new things that opened during the pandemic and lesser-known sights that even long-time locals might not know about. Ready to get out there and start having fun again?
GLEN MILLS-- As early childhood educators continue to go beyond the call of duty in today’s environment, six teachers from The Malvern School have been recognized as recipients of the 2021 Terri Lynne Lokoff Teacher Awards. Recipients – who were honored at a virtual ceremony on Saturday, May 22 – include:
With the summer upon us and the sense we’re over and done with everything, that everything has got to change, I found myself after a year and a half facing down the mall. I walked into Bloomingdale’s to check in -- sort of a community service making sure area businesses were functioning well -- and maybe with just the slightest curiosity if by chance they had a new version of my vegan leather jacket that mysteriously delaminated.
WHITPAIN — The temperature outside is rising, meaning fun times are about to heat up at Montgomery County Community College this summer.
AMBLER — The lights of The Ambler Theater’s iconic marquee sign will soon shine once again as the downtown cinema is set to reopen Friday, June 4.
PHILADELPHIA -- Congratulations to Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia’s beloved public market, for being voted the best public market in America by USA Today 10Best. The market is one of the oldest and largest public markets in the nation and after more than 125 years, it continues to grow, evolve and find new ways to please locals and tourists.
Where did May go? I’ve been considering all of the things yet unplanted and looking at the calendar in disbelief — those thirty-one days somehow gone in a blink — and wondering how it’s gotten to be June already. Sure, I can point to all the things that I have accomplished, but the weeds are still growing like crazy despite the lack of rainfall, there are poison ivy plants that need to be pulled before they get completely out of hand, and the annuals I purchased at the end of April are still sitting in their little pots.
EAST NORRITON — Even though the 18th annual Walk & 5K Run Through the Park will be a mask-wearing, socially distanced in-person event on June 5, organizers are confident they can recapture at least part of that pre-pandemic feeling for everyone involved.
May is National Bike Month. Cycling organizations use the month-long celebration to share the benefits of biking and provide resources.
To be eligible for Medicaid coverage for long-term skilled nursing care, you must meet very strict financial eligibility rules. The eligibility rules can be difficult to navigate. One of the most overlooked traps for the unwary, is Pennsylvania’s Estate Recovery program.
Now that azaleas and lilacs are blooming and temperatures are growing higher, it's the perfect time to check out some of the area's gardens. Of course you'll want to visit Longwood Gardens, the horticultural showplace in Kennett Square. But don't stop there, Philadelphia is America's Garden Capital with more than 30 gardens within 30 miles. Here's a sampling (or you could say, sapling) of lesser-known gardens including many outside of the city limits.
