Publisher’s Letter

August is here! The 250th summer is nearly over. Kids, pets, gardens, barbecue, a visit to Media …

First, we think about our kids, and how other kids lived in Revolutionary times. Work, family, faith, learning, chores, looming war … Not much fun, I’m afraid. In “Revolutionary Kids,” Kim Andrews tells us what it was like.

Turning to the 21st century, our children have no less pressing concerns. In “Kids Health Update,” three doctors offer advice on autism and learning disabilities, nearsightedness and their literal bellyaches.

Shannon Montgomery has eight reasons “Why We Love Media.” Dine under the stars, catch a show at the Media Theatre … It keeps getting better.

In “Family Fun” and “Best Local Events,” Marci Tomassone looks at many ways to enjoy the waning days of summer. In “Mark Your Calendar,” she does the same for September and beyond.

Carol Metzker looks at seniors sharing what they look for in their dream community in “Our House is a Very, Very, Very Fine House.” Our “Guide To 55+ Retirement Communities and Services” has more information about local care options.

 “Stoneleigh is Growing,” says Kit Werner. She’s excited. Ten acres, reuniting two properties that were subdivided almost a century ago, and increasing the Natural Lands’ garden by nearly 25%.

In August, every family in smelling distance of a barbecue will fire up their own grill. It’s “Peak Grilling Window for Barbecue.” Liz Tarditi of Brandywine Table describes this “full-immersion sensory experience of taste and smell plus fire and smoke and a little magic.”

Finally, we invite you to read about how professional photographers and painters capture our furry friends in Shannon Montgomery’s “Paws & Portraits.” We are also running our annual Cutest Pet Contest. Vote for your favorite on Facebook.

Perhaps you already have County Lines delivered to your mailbox. Lucky you! Save it for future reference. At CountyLinesMagazine.com, you can read the August issue online. At Issuu.com, you can read the digital issue. Or click “Get A Copy” on our website to find locations to pick up your own free print copy.

We hope you’d like to subscribe to County Lines, particularly because it is our 50th anniversary of publishing. Do it on our website or call 610-918-9300. For single issues, try Baldwin’s Book Barn, Main Point Books, More Than Books, Bookish Notions, Wellington Square Bookshop or Reads & Co. Bookstore. Visiting an advertiser is also a great — and free — way to find copies!

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Thank you for reading.

Ed Malet, Publisher

610-918-9300

Revolutionary Kids

To modern children, the Revolutionary War may seem like dress-up in bonnets, breeches and wooden toys. Far from it! Most colonial kids were involved in household labor: animals to feed, water to carry, seeds to plant, weeds to pull, butter to churn, younger children to watch, fires to tend, and food to help prepare. Without formal schools, education was tied to the Bible and religion. Kids played with simple toys, like tops or hoops and sticks. And much was left to invention.

Why We Love Media

There’s a reason Media is called Everybody’s Hometown. It packs an impressive mix of restaurants, independent shops, galleries, parks and community spirit. Experience its historic charm, vibrant downtown and welcoming character. Dine outdoors on State Street, shop local at its locally owned and ethically sourced stores, catch a show at the Media Theatre or Hedgerow Theatre, listen or dance to free music, get in touch with nature at its parks, or grab something sweet at one of several ice cream, cookie or candy shops.

Peak Grilling Window for Barbecue

August isn’t the end of grilling season. We consider it the halfway point. The cooler days of late summer and early fall are perfect for lingering over the grill, and the deeper flavors of smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, garlic, brown sugar and slow-cooked meats feel at home as the leaves start to turn. Fire up the grill! Try our recipes!