By Mary Beth Schwartz It is the most widely consumed beverage in the world next to water, and can be found in almost all U.S. households. On any given day, over 160 million Americans are drinking it. The British has been serving it for hundreds of years in royal silver, bone china, and classic red clay Brown Betty pots. They drink approximately 3.32 cups of it a day with m... »
By Ann Wlazelek In March 2012, less than a year out of college and Army officer training, Reid George got what he asked for – deployment to Afghanistan. The Parkland High School graduate was 23. He knew no one in the war-torn country or what his role as a junior officer would be. What he knew was that he was being sent to the Zhari district, the birthplace of the Tal... »
By Andy Cook Our homes are typically the single largest investment we make. Whether you live in a modest ranch style home or a sprawling estate, making use of your space – both indoors and out – is a way to get the most value out of your property. In addition to sheltering you from the elements, a home presents to the world how we want to be seen by our family and friends.... »
By Sara Vigneri When my daughters were born, I signed them up for gmail accounts figuring their names would be nabbed by someone else once they were old enough to sign up for themselves. I never would have predicted that when my daughter was old enough to use her email account it would seem as quaint as using a telephone. Forget email, it’s all about social networks. Peopl... »
By Sara Hodon “I’m bored!” Every parent hears this at some point during their child’s summer vacation. When riding bikes, swimming, or playing the latest electronic device loses some luster, a summer camp might be the answer. From the performing arts to nature, science to sports, there are dozens of day camps around the Valley that are sure to keep a child’s interest for a... »
By J.F. Pirro At Fitness Central in Schnecksville, Steve Hrycko gets the question all the time: What workout burns the most calories? The owner-operator keeps his response sweet and simple: “The one that you use,” he says. “They all work if you’re willing to use them.” He hears both positive and negative feedback on three of the most popular, or at least marketed, newer wo... »
By Angela Bristow Spring is upon us and the garden centers are hopping with gardeners eager to get their hands in the soil. But sometimes frustration develops as the calendar moves through the summer and the once vibrant color of the initial planting season has faded. To have color in the garden all through the warm months, areas experts make some suggestions before puttin... »
By Ruth Heil Did you know that, although 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, only one percent of that water is drinkable? The rest is frozen or filled with salt. Because facts like this foster appreciation for the preciousness of our resources, the founders of Earth Day set environmental learning as the holiday’s cornerstone. They knew that with knowle... »
By Kathryn Finegan Clark More than a century ago many people believed the only good hawk was a dead hawk. Even bird lovers and conservationists detested hawks. The Pennsylvania Game Commission, fearing certain bird-killing hawks would wipe out the ruffed grouse population, offered a $5 bounty per goshawk in the 1930s. During the Great Depression that was a mighty sum and h... »
By Melanie Gold Depending on the weather, April frequently marks the time when the Lehigh Valley’s winegrape vineyards awaken from their winter slumber. Warmer, lengthening days inspire vines to “break bud,” producing leaves, then flowers, and eventually grapes. The annual harvest results in dozens of locally produced wines – many of them state, national and international ... »
