Doug Durren and Gloria Todor - Delaware County, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia Spiced Wafers (Ginger Snaps)

I never really thought about it until this week that the spiced wafers I grew up with are not only a seasonal product but also a regional product.

Doug was sharing with me that he knows a person who stocks up on boxes of these things because they are only around a very short period of time.

With my curiosity peaked, I did some research on line and sure enough, Sweetzels Spiced Wafers have the monopoly on this Philadelphia area autumn treat. This product is only available July to Thanksgiving, with Halloween being the focal point, thus the trademark black and orange box. From the articles I read on line the owner has been marketing these goodies to the larger market and they are slowly catching on. Good for him!

Another thing I learned was that these crunchy ginger snaps were at one time produced in my hometown of Bridgeport, a suburb of Philly, but due to a fire was forced to relocate out of state.

My father was addicted to these things. Every fall there would be a few boxes hanging around and one just had to have a few as a snack with a glass of milk. Fall is not complete for me without a taste of these crispy morsels.

So if you happen to see Sweetzels Spiced Wafers on a shelf in your local store or during a visit to Philadelphia in the Fall and want to try a new treat, take home a box, get a glass of milk and enjoy! The crispier the better! (Written by Gloria)

One way to do your part in helping our planet is to get in the habit of crushing and reducing the size of empty containers before you throw them in the trash or in your recycling bin. This habit will save space in your local landfill. Flatten boxes, soda cans, milk cartons, egg cartons, you get the picture. Step on them if you have to! Check out this instructive video thanks to YouTube. (written by Gloria)

Remember if you are thinking of replacing your aging water heater, boiler or furnace, now is the time to do so in order to be prepared for the upcoming colder weather and to possibly receive a rebate offered by PECO. The deadline is December 31, 2009 and is offered on energy efficent models.

This offer is extended to gas customers in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties in Pennsylvania. To find out more details, please check the notice that comes with your monthly bill or visit PECO on line.

Please inform all that you know who are 65 or older to see if they qualify for this rebate. It is also for permanently disabled persons 18 and older. The deadline has be extended to December 31, 2009. Eligible participants can receive up to $650. To learn more and to obtain a claims form contact your local state representative's office or use the following link http://www.revenue.state.pa.us/ptrr/site/default.asp.

The Borough of Parkside will be celebrating its 90th Anniversary in conjunction with its Community Day this coming Saturday. The events start off with a Parade at 10:30 AM that will go through the whole borough. Members of the community are invited to walk in the parade and are encouraged to wear a favorite team jersey or shirt.

The Community Day events follow the parade from 12 - 4 PM. Activities include face painting, games, raffles, a moon bounce, an obstacle course, a dunk tank, music and much more! Then remember to return at 7 PM for a movie and popcorn.

It's your day Parkside! Have fun! Hope to see you there!