Illustration by Heather Franzen Rutten Second Act essay by Angela A. Bey The 100-year-old brownstone of John M. Patterson Elementary School in Philadelphia held my first-grade classroom. I remember everything vividly—dried-up Crayola markers, paint-chipped walls and photocopies of “Hooked on Phonics” workbook pages. My peers walked in close-knit groups down the halls, and certain
MoreFreedom from Want by Heather Shayne Blakeslee During elementary school, the bedroom that I shared with my little sister could not have been more ideal. It was light and airy, and our matching set of tiny brass beds each had wooden shelves above them that my father had made himself. In between the beds, under
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Philadelphia Chamber Music Society Build-Your-Own-Concert-SubscriptionClassical music devotees can choose from all the remaining concerts of the 2016–2017 season of the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society. All tickets are $25 or less. Next year, you can participate in the official “build your own subscription program”—a modern idea from a time-honored cultural institution. $25 or less PlayArts MembershipA newer
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Illustration by Julia Tran 1. Check on your weather strippingThe better doors and windows are sealed, the longer it will be before you have to resort to turning on the heat. It’s low-cost and easy to install, whether you rent or own. 2. Get your heating system servicedWe all have that moment on the first
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Story Time by Heather Shayne Blakeslee Once upon a time, I met Stephen King. Perhaps more accurately, I once had an awkward exchange with Stephen King. It was a brief encounter at a fundraiser in New York, and I’m not sure which of us was more uncomfortable during the 20 seconds we spoke. What I
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Dear Diary by Anna Herman Handcrafting a book to jot down favorite quotes or sketch your garden plans is an hour or two of work well spent. With a bit of planning and practice, you can transform scraps and hand-me-downs into practical or fantastical journals, albums or printed books. These make great presents and gifts,
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