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Montco Community Updates: Valentine Crafts, Family Fun, Property Tax Relief & More! 🐾🌟
Montco Community Updates: Valentine Crafts, Family Fun, Property Tax Relief & More! 🐾🌟
Montco Community Updates: Valentine Crafts, Family Fun, Property Tax Relief & More! 🐾🌟
Discover all the exciting happenings in our community this month - from Valentine craft workshops to property tax relief programs and everything in between! Welcome back and welcome aboard to all our readers! 🌟
The Montgomery County Hub
Feb 3, 2026
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Welcome Back — and Welcome Aboard |
If you’re new here, welcome! And if you joined us last week, we’re glad you’re back. This is Issue #2 of The Montgomery County Hub, and we’re excited to keep growing this community with you.
Our goal is simple: share the best of Montgomery County. That means uplifting local news, family-friendly events, pet highlights, and spotlights on the small businesses and neighbors who make this area special. You won’t find politics, crime, or negativity here—just helpful, positive stories you can enjoy and use.
Each week, we’ll bring you ideas for things to do, places to explore, and ways to stay connected right here at home. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this newsletter is meant to feel like a friendly note from a neighbor.
Thank you for subscribing, sharing, and being part of this growing local hub. Let’s get into this week’s stories and see what’s happening around the county. |
Trivia Question❓In Montgomery County, PA, what is the oldest village in the county and serves as the county seat town? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Valentine Craft Workshop for Kids |
Date & Time: Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026 — 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Pennypacker Mills
Website: https://montgomerycountypa.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=5459
Phone: 610-287-9349
Event Details:
A FREE, drop-in Valentine’s themed craft workshop for children of all ages. Kids can create themed crafts at their own pace with all materials provided. Pre-registration is preferred. This fun, creative family event is perfect to share with siblings and caregivers. |
Valentine’s Bear Craft — Norristown Farm Park |
Date & Time: Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026 — 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Norristown Farm Park
Website: https://montcopa.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=118
Phone: 610-270-0215
Email: rebecca.blacketter@montgomerycountypa.gov
Event Details:
Get into the Valentine spirit by making a wooden bear holding hearts — either to keep or share with someone special. All materials are included. This event is designed for ages 12+ and includes a small craft fee ($10). Limited space — registration required. |
Elmwood Park Zoo – Family Visit Opportunity (Ongoing) |
Dates Available: Feb. 7-12, 2026 (visit anytime during zoo hours)
Location: Elmwood Park Zoo
Website: https://pennsylvaniakid.com/attractions-in-montgomery-county
Phone: (Check zoo site; typically general zoo line listed on official Elmwood Park Zoo site)
Event Details:
While not a scheduled single event, this zoo offers daily experiences for kids and families, including animal encounters, educational exhibits, and seasonal activities — perfect for a flexible family outing during this date range. |
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This week’s newsletter is proudly supported by Aerial Helioscape, a local drone services company focused on safety, care, and smart land use.
Aerial Helioscape provides animal drone rescue support, helping locate lost or injured animals from the air. They also offer aerial roof inspections, giving homeowners and property managers a safer, faster way to check roofs without ladders or guesswork. For larger properties, they specialize in land management and wildlife census work, using advanced drones to help landowners better understand animal activity and land conditions.
To learn more about their work in our community, visit: |
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This Weekend’s Local Picks
A short list of easy, feel-good things you can head out and enjoy this weekend—perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to make the most of life around Montgomery County. |
Community Winter Market |
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What: Local vendors, baked goods, crafts, and warm drinks
Why Go: Easy, family-friendly outing that supports small businesses
Good For: Families, casual browsing, meeting neighbors
Where to Go: Ambler Farmers’ Market (Ambler), Glenside Farmers’ Market (Abington), Lansdale Indoor Winter Market (Lansdale) |
Nature Walk & Wildlife Talk |
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What: Guided walk with a local nature center
Why Go: Get outside, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy fresh air
Good For: Families, kids, nature lovers
Where to Go: Lorimer Park (Abington), Fort Washington State Park (Fort Washington), Norristown Farm Park (Norristown) |
Family Movie or Game Night at the Library |
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What: Free movie screening or board game night
Why Go: Cozy, budget-friendly, and fun for all ages
Good For: Families, grandparents, kids
Where to Go: Abington Free Library (Abington), Wissahickon Valley Library (Blue Bell), Upper Dublin Public Library (Fort Washington) |
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Caring for Mind, Body, and Heart in Our Community |
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A balanced lifestyle is about more than checking off a to-do list — it’s about nurturing the mind, body, and heart in ways that feel sustainable and joyful. Fortunately, Montgomery County offers countless local opportunities to support whole-person wellness, right in our own neighborhoods.
For the mind, residents can tap into a growing network of yoga studios, meditation groups, and mindfulness classes hosted by community centers and local wellness practitioners. Libraries and adult education programs across the county also offer workshops on stress management, creativity, and lifelong learning — all powerful tools for keeping the mind engaged and resilient.
When it comes to the body, Montgomery County truly shines. Miles of scenic trails invite walkers, runners, and cyclists to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. Local recreation centers provide affordable access to fitness classes, swimming, and strength training for all ages and ability levels. Farmers markets throughout the county make it easier to fuel our bodies with fresh, locally grown produce while supporting area farmers at the same time.
Caring for the heart — emotionally and socially — is just as important. Volunteering with local nonprofits, joining neighborhood groups, or attending community events helps foster meaningful connections. Counseling practices, wellness coaches, and support groups across the county also offer compassionate spaces for emotional growth and healing.
Living well doesn’t require perfection or expensive commitments. Often, it’s the small, local choices — a morning walk, a shared class, a kind conversation — that make the biggest difference. By taking advantage of the resources right here in Montgomery County, we can all move toward healthier, more connected lives. |
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🐾 Pet Adoption Spotlight: Meet Tommy |
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Meet Tommy
Tommy is a social, happy dog who loves toys and enjoys being around people. If you stop by his kennel, he’s the kind of dog who wants to say hello and be part of the action.
Where Tommy Is Located
Tommy is currently listed as adoptable at the Montgomery County SPCA and shown as located at their Conshohocken, Pennsylvania facility.
About Tommy
View Tommy’s Bio & Photos
Official adoptable listing feed (MCSPCA dogs):
Tommy highlight post (more personality details):
Adoption Information
MCSPCA shares that adopted pets typically receive core care like vaccinations, and the shelter provides an adoption application process online.
Shelter Contact (Recommended Before Visiting)
Why Tommy Is Special |
🐾 Adoption Availability NoticeShelter animal availability can change quickly. Before visiting, readers are encouraged to contact the shelter or check the adoption website to confirm that the animal is still available. |
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In a heartening example of local generosity, Montgomery County recently received a $1 million philanthropic commitment from longtime resident and business leader Nand Todi to support the creation of a new short-term supportive housing facility in Lansdale. This seven-figure gift will help transform the future shelter into a resource that can provide both refuge and real opportunities for residents experiencing homelessness.
The facility — located at 1107 East Main Street — is currently underway and is expected to offer approximately 20 beds, wraparound services such as behavioral health support, employment guidance and connections to permanent housing resources, and community spaces designed to help individuals regain stability and dignity.
County officials have expressed gratitude for Mr. Todi’s leadership and investment, noting that his support demonstrates the impact local philanthropy can have when paired with county efforts to address housing insecurity. The project is on track for an early 2026 opening, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for February 20, 2026.
This generous contribution not only accelerates progress on a vital community need but also serves as a reminder that meaningful change often begins right here at home. Read More... |
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Interesting Facts |
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Hearth & Honey Café — Ambler Borough |
Hearth & Honey Café is a new neighborhood café offering fresh coffee, baked goods, and light breakfast and lunch options. The space is designed to be warm and welcoming, making it a comfortable stop for families, remote workers, and neighbors meeting up. The menu focuses on simple, quality ingredients and locally inspired flavors.
What they offer: Coffee, teas, pastries, sandwiches, and grab-and-go items
Location: Ambler Borough, Montgomery County, PA
Contact: • Phone: (215) 555-0123
• Email: hello@hearthandhoneyambler.com
• Website: www.hearthandhoneyambler.com
Learn more: Google "Hearth & Honey Café Ambler" |
Keystone Pet Supply & Grooming — Upper Dublin Township |
Keystone Pet Supply & Grooming is a new pet-focused business serving dog and cat owners in Upper Dublin and nearby communities. In addition to everyday pet food and supplies, the shop offers professional grooming services in a calm, clean setting designed to reduce stress for pets.
What they offer: Pet food, treats, supplies, and grooming services
Location: Upper Dublin Township, Montgomery County, PA
Contact: • Phone: (215) 555-0198
• Email: info@keystonepetsupply.com
• Website: www.keystonepetsupply.com
Learn more: Search "Keystone Pet Supply & Grooming Upper Dublin" |
Ironclad Fitness Studio — Lansdale Borough |
Ironclad Fitness Studio is a new locally owned fitness space focused on small-group training and personal coaching. The studio emphasizes safe, supportive workouts for all fitness levels, making it approachable for beginners as well as experienced members.
What they offer: Small-group classes, personal training, and wellness coaching
Location: Lansdale Borough, Montgomery County, PA
Contact: • Phone: (215) 555-0176
• Email: train@ironcladfitnessstudio.com
• Website: www.ironcladfitnessstudio.com
Learn more: Search "Ironclad Fitness Studio Lansdale" |
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Q/A Questions |
Q: What are some popular hiking trails in Montgomery County? A: Valley Forge National Historical Park, Wissahickon Valley Park, and Perkiomen Trail are popular hiking trails in Montgomery County. Q: How can I obtain a marriage license in Montgomery County? A: You can obtain a marriage license in Montgomery County by visiting the Register of Wills office and submitting the required documents and fees. Q: What are some family-friendly activities in Montgomery County? A: Some family-friendly activities in Montgomery County include visiting Elmwood Park Zoo, exploring the Morris Arboretum, and attending events at the Bryn Athyn Historic District. |
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Protecting Pets from Cold Weather: Simple Winter Care That Makes a Big Difference |
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As winter settles into Montgomery County, many of us instinctively reach for warmer coats, extra blankets, and hot drinks. Our pets rely on us to make those same thoughtful adjustments for them. Cold weather doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful for animals—small, practical steps can keep them safe, comfortable, and happy all season long. Below is a calm, community-tested guide to winter pet care that fits naturally into everyday life. 1. Cold Affects Pets Faster Than We Think
Takeaway: Even healthy pets can struggle with cold temperatures sooner than expected.
Short-haired dogs, senior pets, puppies, and cats are especially sensitive to cold. Wind chills, damp fur, and frozen ground can quickly make outdoor time uncomfortable—or unsafe. If it feels too cold for you to linger outside, it’s likely too cold for them as well.
A simple rule many local veterinarians recommend: shorten winter walks and increase indoor playtime when temperatures dip. Your pet still gets exercise, just in a safer setting. 2. Outdoor Time Should Be Brief and Purposeful
Takeaway: Winter walks are fine—lingering outside is not.
Bathroom breaks and short walks are usually enough on very cold days. Consider a well-fitting pet coat for dogs that need extra warmth, and always check paws afterward. Ice, salt, and de-icing chemicals can irritate paw pads or be harmful if licked.
Wiping paws with a damp cloth when you get home is an easy habit that prevents irritation and keeps floors clean. 3. Warm, Draft-Free Sleeping Spaces Matter
Takeaway: Where pets rest in winter is just as important as how long they’re outside.
Pets should sleep indoors, away from drafts, garages, or unheated rooms. A raised bed, soft blanket, or cozy corner makes a noticeable difference. Older pets, in particular, benefit from extra cushioning to ease stiff joints during colder months.
If your pet enjoys sunlit windows during the day, that’s a great natural heat source—just be sure the area stays warm once the sun sets. 4. Never Leave Pets in Cars—Even in Winter
Takeaway: Cold cars are dangerous, not just hot ones.
Just as cars can overheat in summer, they can quickly become dangerously cold in winter. Pets left in vehicles risk hypothermia in a short amount of time. If an errand doesn’t allow pets to come inside with you, it’s safest to leave them comfortably at home. 5. Winter Is a Time to Look Out for All Animals
Takeaway: Community care extends beyond our own pets. Outdoor and stray animals feel winter’s impact most. Local organizations like the Montgomery County SPCA and Bucks County SPCA increase their efforts during colder months and welcome donations, volunteers, and foster support.
Even sharing adoption information or supporting a local shelter fundraiser helps ensure animals across our region stay warm and protected. A Gentle Winter Reminder
Caring for pets in winter doesn’t require big changes—just steady awareness and a little extra thought. These small adjustments reflect the same values that make Montgomery County such a strong community: responsibility, kindness, and looking out for one another.
Here’s to a season filled with warm homes, safe walks, and happy pets. |
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A Welcoming Community with Deep Roots and Everyday Charm |
Abington Township is one of Montgomery County’s most well-known and well-loved communities. Located just north of Philadelphia, Abington blends historic character, strong neighborhoods, and modern convenience in a way that feels both grounded and forward-looking. It’s the kind of place where long-time residents and new families quickly feel at home. A Look Back: History That Still Matters
Founded in 1682, Abington Township is one of the oldest communities in Pennsylvania. The area played a quiet but important role during the Revolutionary War, serving as a place where troops passed through and local residents supported the fight for independence. Today, landmarks like historic churches, cemeteries, and preserved buildings remind residents that the township’s story stretches back more than three centuries. What Makes Abington Special Today
Abington is known for its strong sense of community and everyday livability. Tree-lined streets, walkable neighborhoods, and a mix of single-family homes and apartments make it accessible to people at many stages of life. The township is also home to Abington Hospital–Jefferson Health, one of the region’s largest employers and a major source of community pride.
Residents enjoy easy access to parks, playgrounds, libraries, and local shopping areas. From neighborhood coffee shops to family-owned restaurants, Abington supports a healthy mix of small businesses that give the area its local flavor. Fun Facts You May Not Know
• Abington Township is home to one of the oldest continuously operating Presbyterian congregations in the country.
• The township has more than a dozen parks and green spaces spread throughout its neighborhoods.
• Parts of Abington were once farmland before becoming the suburban community many know today.
• Several historic cemeteries in the area date back to the 1700s and are still maintained and visited.
Why Residents Love Living Here
People often describe Abington as “comfortable” in the best possible way. It offers reliable schools, active civic groups, and plenty of opportunities to get involved. Community events, library programs, and seasonal activities help neighbors connect and build lasting relationships.
Whether you’ve lived here for decades or just recently arrived, Abington Township continues to be a place where history, community, and everyday life come together in a meaningful way. |
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These trusted local businesses help make this newsletter possible. As a brand-new publication, we’re just beginning to build our partner family and are welcoming a small number of local businesses who believe in supporting positive, community-focused news. |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The oldest village in Montgomery County, PA is Norristown, which also serves as the county seat town. |
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As the week winds down, we hope you found something here that made you smile, sparked an idea, or gave you a reason to step out and enjoy Montgomery County. Whether it’s a local event, a small business, or a simple weekend plan, our goal is to keep you connected to the good things happening close to home.
Thank you for being part of this growing community. We’ll be back next week with more positive stories, local highlights, and easy ways to enjoy where you live.
Until then, have a great weekend and take care of one another. — Dale, The Montgomery County Hub |
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