The Sweet Smells of School

August is upon us, once again, and that means one thing...its time to Stuff The Bus!

While its always hard to see summertime go, there are certain little things I still remember fondly when I think about that first week of school... The smoothness of a brand-new Pink Pet eraser, the unique smell of our local bookstore, getting to choose my new Trapper Keeper which, undoubtedly, had a picture of puppies on it, picking out new pens and pencils in a myriad of colors... What? Is it not normal to daydream about school supplies? Perhaps I should be talking more about seeing friends, sporting new clothes or meeting the new teachers, you say? Well, then I digress...

Unfortunately, there are a number of children in our area who might not know the joy of having a new backpack of school supplies without a little help from their neighbors. But that is where the good people of The United Way and you come in. The North Penn United Way has made it very, very easy to contribute to this great cause at any level you are able. There are so many drop off spots, you will probably pass by one within the next 24 hours without even intending to. But, if popping into a retailer is a bit inconvenient (believe me, with three kids under age 6, I get that), you can also mail in either a check or even a giftcard to any retailer that sells school supplies. How great is that?

For specific info on what is needed or a list of drop-off locations, please see the "Do Some Good" section of North Penn Under Ten. Until then, I believe I have some Post-It pads in assorted patterns to doodle on... Ahhhhh...stationery...

Its Play Time!

On Wednesday, July 21st, the new North Wales Area Library will be hosting a free production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears presented by Theatre & Kids. The program is free (!) and starts at 10:30am. Don't miss it!

Looking for an encore? The Commonwealth Classic Theatre Company will present Moliere's The Miser at 7:30pm at White's Road Park, also on Wednesday the 21st.

If that still doesn't quench your thirst for the dramatic arts, you must check out Seussical the Musical presented by the Methacton Community Theatre. This production is sure to thrill kids of all ages and will be showing at 8:00pm on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as a 2:00pm matinée performance on Saturday. All shows are taking place at the Perkiomen Valley Middle School East, a short drive from Lansdale.

Further details on these shows and other exciting events for the week can be found on the North Penn Under Ten calendar. Bravo, to all our local actors!

Cool Ways to Spend a Tuesday

If you're already planning to see one of the Free Summer Movies at Frank's Theatres this week, consider stopping by Imagination Playzone at the Montgomery Mall afterwards. If you present your movie ticket stub, you'll get a free pizza lunch with your paid admission at the play place! Be sure to arrive by 2pm. Imagination will be offering this nifty deal every Tuesday and Thursday through August 26th.

Also, on Tuesday the 20th, (as long as you're already at the mall!), swing by The Picture People and take part in their Sizzlin' Summer Fest. Your kids can make a fishy craft, receive a goody bag, and parents can pick up coupons to places like McDonald's all for free!

By 7pm, it should be cooler outside (in theory, at least), so check out the Summer Concert at White's Road Park. Performing this week is the (35-piece!) Marine Band of Allentown. They'll play everything from patriotic marches to jazz selections to showtunes!

Eat At Moe's!

Friday, July 16th, when you dine at Moe's Southwest Grill on 309, a portion of your purchase will go to the Layton family of Lower Salford to aid their fundraising efforts. The youngest member of the Layton family, Joshua, age 2 1/2, suffers from severe, even life-threatening, allergies to eggs, milk, peanuts and all tree nuts. Joshua's allergies are so extreme that many of the activities that other children his age enjoy are simply off-limits for Joshua.

That is why his family has committed to raising a hefty $20,000 to acquire an Allergy Alert™ dog for him. This remarkable service dog will be able to identify and protect Joshua from unseen threats like milk residue - a seemingly harmless substance, but one that can send (and has sent) Joshua to the emergency room. The Laytons are already halfway to their goal, but they need all the help they can get.

So, make your way to Moe's. Whether its for lunch, dinner or a tasty snack, stop by and do some good while you eat some(thing) good. Moe's is open from 11am to 10pm and is located in The Shoppes at English Village on Bethlehem Pike (aka Route 309). To learn more about Joshua's story, visit joshuasangel.com.

New MarketPlace Has Launched!

Having a yard sale or fundraiser? Need a gently used stroller or a pair of cleats? Want to sell your old baby gear? Looking for a babysitter or tutor for your child? Have a home business to promote?

Whatever your need, you can now connect with buyers & sellers in Lansdale, North Wales, Hatfield and other local communities for just pennies a day.

Its targeted and totally affordable - Check out the new MarketPlace section of the site here!