2nd Week of 2025!

Hello Friends,

As I write this, I’m in bed with a book beside me and my relaxed, sweater-wearing dog by my side. Her sweater says “Squirrel Patrol,” and yes, dog, we’ll go outside soon so you can protect the neighborhood from those big ol' squirrels preparing for winter.

GRATITUTDE

This week has been bitterly cold. The city of Philadelphia opened warming shelters for those needing to escape the freezing temperatures. We’ve been bundled up in hats, scarves, and blankets. Thankfully, office spaces are warm again after the long winter break.

I’m grateful that my family has heat and can afford to keep it running. We winterized our home two months ago by sealing the windows with plastic, which has made a huge difference. We have plenty of warm clothes, and even our dog is stylish in her winter gear.

Sadly, not everyone has the resources to stay warm. If you’re struggling, please remember—there’s no shame in asking for help.

If you or someone you know needs heating assistance and lives in Pennsylvania, LIHEAP may be an option: LIHEAP Assistance.

For additional resources and resources outside of PA, FindHelp.org is another great tool to locate assistance programs.

LEADERSHIP

Brett and I had the honor of meeting Charles D. Dilks and his wife Gene Dilks through the Philadelphia Theatre Community and the Social Insight Award. Charles passed away at age 83 on December 28th.

A Navy veteran, conservationist, and community leader, Charles served on boards for the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Schuylkill Center, Friends of the Wissahickon, and other environmental organizations. He also helped establish the Science Center in Philadelphia. Beyond his accomplishments, he was a talented singer, a devoted husband to his wife Gene, and a wonderful father.

Charles achieved so much that it’s impossible to list everything here. I’ll always remember him as a warm host and storyteller who could captivate you with tales of the past and present—the kind of stories you wish you had written down.

To learn more about his life, please read the Inquirer Obituary about him: https://share.inquirer.com/A70GYo

What to Experience

Theatre Poster for Driving Miss Daisy

Brett and I recently saw Driving Miss Daisy at Walnut Street Theatre, and it was absolutely wonderful. The acting was phenomenal—you can’t go wrong with Philly legends like Johnnie Hobbs Jr., Scott Greer, and the terrific Wendy Scharfman. Their performances were transformative, and it was fascinating to watch the characters age as the play progressed.

(Short Synopsis: The play follows the journey of a driver, played by Johnnie Hobbs Jr., who is hired by a son, Scott Greer, to drive his mother, Miss Daisy, played by Wendy Scharfman.)

The set, designed by Roman Tatarowicz, was fantastic, and the lighting by Ryan O'Gara added so much depth. (We especially loved the Piggly Wiggly sign!) Christopher Colucci’s sound design was also spot-on and elevated the production.

You can catch Driving Miss Daisy at the Walnut Street Theatre until February 2nd. Don’t miss it!

One Last Thing

Brett and I are proud to serve as board members for a Philadelphia nonprofit called Local Good. Local Good provides one-time microgrants to individuals in need throughout Philadelphia. These grants offer immediate assistance for a variety of challenges, helping people get back on their feet.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a microgrant, or if you’re interested in getting involved with Local Good, please don’t hesitate to reach out!