COMMUNITY CONNECTION MARCH 2024

We

Advocate For You

Have you ever felt like you needed help communicating and understanding the healthcare rights of your loved one? You are not alone.

Advocating for elders is a crucial aspect of healthcare and community engagement that is often overlooked. Elder advocacy involves ensuring that the rights, dignity, and well-being of older adults are upheld and protected at all costs.

At Family Caregivers Network, advocacy is part of our mission and values. On a daily basis our professional care team is focused on the rights of the elderly and meeting their care needs at home. Advocacy is in everything that we do, and branches far beyond the care we provide in your home. Here are some ways we work to uphold the rights your loved ones:

Access to Healthcare: FCN works to ensure that older adults have access to affordable, quality healthcare services. This includes advocating for their insurance, VA, government subsidized, and private pay coverage. As well as well as access to preventative care, specialized services, and long-term care options.

Care Management: FCN advocates for your care by providing nursing oversight and collaboration with other healthcare organizations, to ensure a safe discharge to home as well as ongoing care.

Safe Living Environments: FCN advocates for a safe and assessable living environments for the older adults. This includes advocating for home modifications when needed to support aging in place. When needed we assist families in making decisions about facility care.

Promoting Social Connections: FCN understands that social isolation and loneliness among older adults is often a concern. We advocate by promoting social connections, community engagement, and supportive services.

Overall, advocating for elders involves amplifying their voices, addressing obstacles to their well-being, and promoting policies and practices that support healthy aging and dignified living.

Advocacy is at the heart of what we do for our community, that is why our team is dedicated to addressing any questions regarding your loved ones care. Do you need some answers? Give us a call!

215 • 541 • 9030

www.family-caregivers.com

C.A.R.E.S…Care,

Come shop over 45 unique vendors!

Food • Talented Crafters and Artisans • Vendors

Jewelry • Wood Burning • Local Honey • 3D Art • Skin Care • Freeze Dried Candy

Greeting Cards • Plants • Hot Sauce • Simmering Pot Potpourri

Resin crafts • Laser art slate coasters • Sweet Treats

And SO MUCH MORE!

Wood Fired Pizzas

900 Degrees - Hand Tossed - 10 Inch Personals

Neapolitan

Toppings

Pepperoni

Sausage

Fresh Mushrooms

Fresh Bell Peppers

Red Onions Bacon Broccoli

Specialty Pizzas $18.00

Margherita

Hand Crushed Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and Fresh Basil

Pub Pie

Pepperoni, Sausage, Mushroom, Peppers, Onions

Chicken Bacon Ranch

Buffalo Chicken

BBQ Chicken

White with Ricotta, Broccoli, and Garlic

Vegetarian Special

Mushroom, Peppers, Onions, Broccoli, Spinach, Tomato, Garlic

White With Ricotta, Spinach, and Garlic

Shareables

Cajun Pork Potstickers

Beer Battered Onion Rings

Mozzarella Sticks

Best Fries

Jalapeno Poppers

Salads

Traditional Garden

Mixed Greens, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Roasted Peppers, Onions, Kalamata Olives

Add Chicken $6.00

Caesar Salad

Romaine, Garlic Croutons, Shredded Parm

Add Chicken $6.00

Spinach Feta Salad

Walnuts, Onions, Tomatoes, Honey Mustard

Add Chicken $6.00

Soups

Chicken Noodle Soup

Sausage and Pasta Faggioli

Chili

Fire Toasted Sandwiches

served with Fresh hand cut Fries

Sausage , Peppers, Onions

Chicken Parmesan

Brooklyn

Grilled Chicken, Roasted Peppers, Fresh Mozzarella, Basil, Balsamic of Modena

The Modern 1/2 Pound Pub Burger

Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Bacon, Modern Pub Sauce

Chipotle Chicken Sandwich

Montery Jack and Cheddar Cheese, Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Chipotle Aioli

CheeseSteak Sandwich

0.50/each

Butterfly Shrimp Basket (8 Shrimp)

Chicken Tenders Basket

Sticky Ribs Basket - Korean BBQ

Tapped Out Shrimp (8 Shrimp)

Double Fried Chicken Wings (10 Wings)

Wood Fired Chicken Wings (10 Wings)

Choice Of : Hot, Mild, Korean BBQ, Honey Mustard, Thai Chili

Served With Ranch Or Bleu Cheese and Celery

Kids

Kids Tenders

2554 Geryville Pike, Pennsburg, PA 18073 (215) 692-4672

ADULT

EASTER EGG HUNT

2024 MARCH 30

$10 Entry fee includes a sandwich and fun time! Raffle baskets, Music, Cash Bar, Egg Dying. Starts at 2 pm, doors open at 1pm. Stop by Socail Club to sign up.

82 E. 5th Street, Red HIll

Preventing and Treating Back Injuries

Back injuries are a common and often debilitating problem that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Whether caused by heavy lifting, poor posture, or repetitive stress, back injuries can be both painful and disruptive. However, with the right knowledge and proactive measures, it is possible to prevent and treat back injuries effectively.

Preventing Back Injuries

Proper Lifting Techniques

One of the most common causes of back injuries is improper lifting. To prevent injury, it is essential to use proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees, keeping the back straight, and using the legs to lift the object. Additionally, using assistive devices like dollies or lifting straps can help reduce the strain on the back during lifting.

Ergonomic Workspaces

Maintaining an ergonomic workspace is crucial for back health, especially for those who spend long hours sitting at a desk. This includes using an adjustable chair with proper lumbar support, positioning the computer monitor at eye level, and taking regular breaks to stretch and move around.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles can help support the spine and prevent back injuries. Activities such as yoga, Pilates, and swimming can help improve flexibility and build muscle strength, reducing the risk of back strain.

Healthy Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy body weight is important for back health, as excess weight can put additional strain on the spine and contribute to back pain. Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage weight and reduce the risk of back injuries.

Proper Posture

Practicing good posture is essential for preventing back injuries. This includes sitting and standing with the shoulders back, chin parallel to the ground, and

maintaining the natural curve of the spine. Using ergonomic chairs and supportive footwear can also help improve posture.

Treating Back Injuries

Rest and Ice

In the event of a back injury, it is important to rest the affected area and apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain. Ice packs can be applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day during the first 48 hours after the injury.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain associated with back injuries. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists.

Physical Therapy

For more severe back injuries, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option. A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise and stretching program to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility, promoting healing and preventing future injuries.

Professional Medical Care

In cases of persistent or severe back pain, seeking professional medical care is essential. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests if necessary, to diagnose the underlying cause of the back injury and recommend appropriate treatment.

Lifestyle Modifications

Making lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, improving posture, and incorporating regular exercise, can contribute to the long-term management and prevention of back injuries. Additionally, learning stressreduction techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can help alleviate tension in the back muscles.

By implementing these preventive measures and seeking appropriate treatment when needed, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their backs and minimize the risk of injury.

Fun and flavorful recipes from our kitchen to yours!

Colcannon

Have you ever had colcannon? A St. Patrick’s day favorite, colcannon is an Irish potato recipe, a mixture of creamy mashed potatoes and usually kale or cabbage.

I have been making colcannon potatoes on St. Patrick’s day since I first ran across the recipe one day when researching things to do with leftover cabbage from my Corned Beef and cabbage cooking spree. It is well documented amongst my friends and family that I am an absolute freak for potatoes. This one fills my heart with happiness (and a little bit of cholesterol too, I imagine, but, hey, who’s counting?)

If you make this recipe, drop a photo on our Facebook page. We would love to hear from you!

IRISH MASHED POTATOES

In the following colcannon recipe, I mix the mashed potatoes in with chopped cooked cabbage, green onions, heavy cream, and lots of butter (also well known amongst the friends). To serve, make a depression in the middle of the mashed potatoes and put a GLOP (it’s a word) of butter in it. To eat it, dip a forkful of the potatoes in the melted butter. If ever there was a recipe to get one to eat one’s greens, this is it!

INGREDIENTS

• 4 russet potatoes or yukon golds (2 to 2 1/2 pounds), peeled and cut into large chunks

• Salt

• 5 to 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (with more butter for serving)

• 3 lightly packed cups of chopped cabbage, kale, chard, or other leafy green ( I always use cabbage)

• 3 green onions (including the green onion greens), minced (about 1/2 cup)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Dash of nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste

METHOD

1. Boil the potatoes: Put the potatoes in a medium pot and cover with cold water by at least an inch. Add 2 tablespoons of salt, and bring to a boil. Boil until the potatoes are fork tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain in a colander.

2. Cook the greens and the green onions with butter: Return the pot to the stove and set over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the pot and once it's hot, add the greens.

Cook the greens for 3-4 minutes, or until they are wilted and have given off some of their water. Add the green onions and cook 1 minute more.

3. Mash the potatoes with milk or cream and greens: Pour in the milk or cream, mix well, and add the potatoes. Reduce the heat to medium. Use a fork or potato masher and mash the potatoes, mixing them up with the greens. Add salt, grated nutmeg and pepper to taste and serve hot, with a glop of butter in the center.

Combating Loneliness: A Journey on Two Wheels and Beyond

In recent years, loneliness has emerged as a silent epidemic, stealthily weaving its way through societies and impacting mental health with the same severity as any physical ailment. With the advent of digital communication, we find ourselves paradoxically isolated amidst a world teeming with virtual connections. This modern-day plague calls for innovative solutions that not only address the issue head-on but also enrich our lives in the process.

The Bicycle: More Than Just a Mode of Transport

Enter the humble bicycle, a beacon of hope in this landscape of solitude. Far more than a mere vehicle for physical transit, the bicycle serves as a conduit for social interaction and community building. Cycling groups and initiatives, much like the ones spearheaded by organizations such as Bike and Sol in East Greenville, PA, offer a sanctuary for those seeking companionship on their journeys. These rides and programs are not just about covering distances; they’re about bridging the gaps between us, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and mutual support.

The Universal Language of Live Music

Similarly, live music acts as a universal language, capable of uniting diverse crowds under the canopy of melody and rhythm. The experience of sharing a musical moment, whether it’s swaying to the strums of a guitar at a local gig or feeling the collective pulse of a crowd at a festival, serves as a powerful antidote to isolation. These gatherings resonate with the communal essence of our being, reminding us that, in the harmony of music, we can find a home. Keep an eye out for Make Music Upper Perk!

The Quiet Solace of Libraries

Libraries, with their serene aisles and whispered tales, offer a different kind of refuge. They are communal hubs

Photo Credit: Art Olsen

where silence speaks volumes and where activities extend far beyond reading. Workshops, discussion groups, and educational sessions in these spaces provide a low-pressure environment for forging connections, catering especially to those who find solace in the quieter corners of society. Pop into the Upper Perk Library.

Nature Groups:

Finding Connection in the Great Outdoors. The call of the wild offers yet another pathway out of loneliness, inviting us to join hands in the shared stewardship of our natural world. Nature groups and outdoor activities not only reconnect us with the earth but also with each other, fostering a community that thrives on mutual respect and admiration for the beauty that surrounds us. The act of exploring, preserving, or simply reveling in nature can spark profound connections, rooted in the common ground of our shared planet. Check out things happening at Green Lane Park.

Conclusion

The fight against loneliness is a collective endeavor, one that requires us to reach out, engage, and embrace the myriad opportunities for connection that lie in our everyday lives. From the simple act of pedaling alongside a fellow cyclist to the shared whispers of library goers or the harmonious chorus of a live audience, the antidote to loneliness lies in community. As we venture forth, whether on two wheels, through the pages of a book, or along the trails of the great outdoors, we embark on a journey to rediscover the joy of shared experiences and the comfort of knowing we’re never truly alone.

Let The Dogventures Begin!

Have you heard the latest news? Mer’s Mutts is now offering an enhanced pet sitting experience with their brand-new Canine Enrichment Program, Dogventures! Dogventures is a personalized Canine Enrichment program with sessions tailored to meet the unique needs of your pets. From interactive playtime to mental stimulation exercises, Mer’s Mutts is committed to keeping tails wagging and spirits high while you’re away. Owner Leeanne Johnson has undergone specialized training through Dognostics, earning the Canine Enrichment Tech Certification, so you can trust that your pets are in expert hands!

So what’s in it for your fur babies? From engaging activities to stimulate both mind and body, to Interactive play sessions to keep them active and happy, Dognostics covers it all and more. How about scent work games, obstacles, and balance activities? Yep, they offer that also!

Your pets deserve the very best, and the Canine Enrichment Program is designed to provide just that. Book your pups experience and let the tail-wagging adventures begin! Up to 30 minute session starting at just $40. Call 267-416-2679 today and ask for LeeAnne.

RENEE PRATT

REALTOR

THE COMMUNITY CONNECTION’S

18TH ANNUAL

Readers Choice

Best Of Culinary Awards!

and the winners are...

OUR READERS VOTED FOR THE BEST OF UPPER PERK, AND HERE THEY ARE!

Best Pizza - Tosco’s Pizzeria Best Cheese Steak - Chiaro’s Pizza

Best Hamburger - Tapped Out at Sweetwater Best Wings - Tosco’s Pub

Best Coffee - Java & Friends Best Dessert - Jamison Publick House

Best Hoagie - Tosco’s Italian Delight

Best Ice Cream - Hometown Creamery

Best Soup - Java & Friends

Best Breakfast - Powderbourne

Best Family Restaurant/ Cafe - Valley Cafe

Best Dining Out - Jamison

Best French Fries - Pennsburg Diner

Friendliest Service - Chibi Cafe

Best Pastries - Doughlicious Best Tavern/Bar - Tosco’s Pub & Grill

Best Atmosphere - The Carriage House Best Chinese Food - Golden Bowl

Best Health Food - Raw Replenish Best Smoothie - Raw Replenish

Best Milkshake - Longacre’s Dairy

Congratulations to all of Our Winners in the Eighteenth Annual Community Connection Readers Choice Awards!

HANDY HINT

Leftover corned beef?

No problem! Top your baked potaotes with leftover corned beef, a little swiss cheese, some sauerkraught and russian dressing for a simple no fuss dinner. YUM!

Answer to January Puzzle

Hey kids, color me!

ccm

MONTHLY EVENTS

Submit your events to donnao@ccmonthly.com prior to the 12th of the month

SPRING CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW MARCH 9, 10AM - 2PM

Tylersport Fire Co. 125 Ridge Rd, Telford

Shop over 45 unique vendors! Food. Talented crafters and Artisans. Vendors. Jewelry. Wood Burning. Simmering Potpouri. Local Honey. Skin care and so much more! Shake off the chill and join us!

TURKEY DINNER MARCH 16 · 4PM - 7PM

Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Road, Spinnerstown

Turkey Dinner with all the Fixing and with our famous Salad Bar (all you can eat), Saturday, March 16th, 4pm – 7pm. T. Adults$15.00, Child (4 – 12) - $10.00, 3 and under are free. Takeout available. Call 267-374-0590 with questions.

EASTER CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW MARCH 17 · 11AM - 3PM

East Greenville Fire Co.

Join us for a fun mix of St Pattys and Easter all at one show!

SPRING BAZAAR MARCH 23 · 8:30AM-11:30AM

Holy Trinity Orthodix Church, 1236 Juniper St. Pottstown

Customers can purchase potato pierogies, halupki (stuffed cabbage), Easter breads and nut rolls. Home-made soups and baked goods also will be sold. This year there will be a flea market. On-site parking is available. Look for the church with the gold domes. For more information search online at www.holytrinitypottstown.org

EASTER EGG HUNT MARCH 23 • 2PM

Red HIll Park

Our Auxiliary’s annual Easter egg hunt .The egg hunt is for ages 0-10; however, children of all ages and their families are welcome for refreshments and free photos with the Easter Bunny. The rain date for this event is Sunday, March 24th at 2 PM.

EASTER EGG HUNT FOR YOUR DOG MARCH 23 • 10AM - 1PM

Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue, 9411 Kings Highway, East Greenville

Bring you pup out for a fun day of hunting for eggs. Registration for the egg hunt starts at 10am. Egg Hunt starts promptly at 11am. Separate groups for small and large dogs. Prize eggs, goodies from Hometown Pet Center. One dog per handler. $5.00 per dog for the hunt. pictures with the Easter Bunny for $15.00

MAKE MUSIC UPPER PERK FEBRUARY 1 - APRIL 20

ValleyArtScene.wordpress.com

Musician Registration now open for the 12th Annual Make Music Upper Perk. All ages, musical styles, and abilities are welcome to register for the June 21 event. Solo acts, duos, bands of any size can sign up to participate.

“Cooking

Community Connection Recipe Book, PO Box 201, East Greenville, PA 18041.

Name:

Address:

City:

Name: Address: City:

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Tor’s Taste T UR

Crikey! Today we are just feet outside the Upper Perkiomen Lines, checking out an elusive BBQ smoker in its natural habitat. It’s a fairly unknown species, but a legend to the locals who have dared to indulge. Nestled next to US Gas on Rt. 63, up the gigantic Sumneytown Hill, which is a trek in itself, we find the rare Steg’s Barbeque. It smells amazing and enticing, but we must be quiet as to not spook it. I’m told this BBQ is the best hidden secret....until now. Hurry, we must strike quickly!

Woah! That was close, but I was able to wrangle and get my hands on a juicy brisket sammy. Notice that I said hands, as in plural, because this baby needs both of them. $15 will get you this tender, juicy sandwich, HEAPING with brisket, definitely enough for two meals or two people. But I understand if you don’t want to share because this was INSANE. Sooo flavorful, tender, right amount of smoke, perfect texture. Like butter. The bun is huge and holds up through the entire eating process. We don’t like wimpy, soggy, buns around here. Crikey, how have I gone so long without knowing about this BBQ joint?! I’m mad you guys kept this from me. I thought we were fellow food hunting friends who shared.

Steg’s also has smoked chicken, pulled pork, smash burgers and more! They are located at 2073 Sumneytown Pike, Harleysville. These guys are out here every day smoking their meats, under their tent, just having a blast while serving up delicious and hearty BBQ. Ya gotta go, I’m telling ya. Don’t forget to tell them Tor sent ya!