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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Coplay, PA

Home Care Coplay, PA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Saylor Park gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Coplay, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Coplay, PA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always treated with respect and they showed care for my mother. Everyone was pleasant when I would call about different circumstances.”

David G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services provided very professional services that resulted in finding the best personal care facility fit for my mother. They have a passion for helping seniors and prioritize the health and well-being of their clients over everything else. I would highly recommend them when you are in a position of finding senior care services for your loved ones.”

Mary M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If your loved one needs in home care, I highly recommend Always Best Care of Bethlehem. Wonderful staff and excellent caregivers that go above and beyond what is expected of them!”

Carrie W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always best care cared for my mother. They have been amazing. My mother really likes her caregiver.”

jill F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken Good was so helpful and knowledgable when my elderly father needed in-home care. He actually came to the rehab center to meet us where my father was getting physical therapy after a fall. This way he was able to accurately access how much care my father would need and which caregivers would be the right fit. We were afraid we'd have to move him to a nursing home but fortunately we were able to set up in-home care. It's been four months now and we have been very happy with the caregivers who have been assigned to my father. Always Best Care is very responsive and flexible in adjusting hours as needed, somehow managing to keep the caregivers my parents have bonded with even though the hours have been reduced. We are happy our parents are able to age in place with care as they need it.”

Barbara T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca have been extremely helpful during the process of finding in-home care for my in-laws. They have been sensitive to our needs, diligent in their efforts to provide the best possible care, and consistent in their follow-up to see if things are satisfactory. We have been executing this process from out-of-state and the process has been very smooth. Through phone calls and face-to-face meetings when possible, both Ken and Rebecca have been professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Jane T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken is a fantastic provider of in-home care in Doylestown. I highly recommend his team.”

Matthew R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken was the first person I really talked to when I found out my father was given a year to live. Instead of immediately looking at me like a business opportunity, he treated me like a close friend. He listened and treated me with complete kindness.. I have gotten to know Ken and his wife Rebecca and I can easily say that they are two of the most wonderful people I have ever met. There is nothing in this world I wouldn't trust them with. Especially the care of a loved one.”

Sheri C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent in every respect.”

Andre C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The support provided by Ken and Rebecca Good (and all of their team) has been invaluable as the family navigates through dealing with the impact of our sister's illness to all of us. The structure with using ABC's online portal to evidence our sister's care is extremely beneficial in ensuring strong and coordinated communication. It is truly appreciative this technology is available and utilized by ABC. For those dealing with identifying care for a loved one, you would be smart to contact Always Best Care of Upper Buxmont.”

Denise O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very few businesses or even people come from a place of compassion and a good heart. Always Best Care does. The client always comes first as does their health and well-being, and the family seeking the best for their loved ones. Thank you Ken for all you did for my parents!”

Mary C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Ken and Rebecca go above and beyond for their clients, as do their staff. They handled emergent situations for my grandmother when we were on vacation - staying with her the entire time at the hospital. Ken also did significant research for our decision to put her in an assisted living community. I highly recommend Always Best Care.”

Jill K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca were a godsend in our search for care for our elderly father. Both Ken and Rebecca were incredibly compassionate, empathetic and caring. In addition, they were knowledgeable and had a wonderful process for determining the needs of the family, the needs of the specific individual and finding an appropriate match for a caregiver to meet those needs. I can't say enough about the services provided by Always Best Care. Ken always went above and beyond, he knew the questions to ask, and how to navigate all the red tape of various organizations (Veterans Administration, etc.) AND he diligently does site visits to the facilities he references so he is able to speak from experience about the quality of care at the facilities under consideration. If you are in need of advice and assistance in caring for a family member I recommend Ken and Rebecca and Always Best Care with no reservations.”

Lisa E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very good, prompt attention to an unexpected need for day care in home for Mother-in-law. Ken is very well versed in available providers and other services needed at this time.The day care providers dealt well with her memory problems.”

Earl P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken & Rebecca were very helpful & knowledgeable with resources in helping me care for my Mom during an extremely difficult time. It was great finding two people who cared & listened to my situation. I never felt alone in my difficult decision making process.”

Howard S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Both Rebecca and Ken were very easy to talk with and were very interested in getting to know my father. They went out of their way to help us as our plans changed from in home care to personal care. They explained the process and were with us every step of the way to answer questions and provide support. I would use them again in a minute.”

Gretchen L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care provides extremely caring, compassionate help for my mom, I live out of town, and can't be there myself very often. But this business goes all-out to take care of my mom. I don't know what we would do without them.”

KJack
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TESTIMONIALS

“Your loved ones will be in great care with Always Best Care of Greater Bethlehem.”

Bobbi D.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Coplay, PA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Coplay, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Coplay, PA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Coplay, PA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Coplay, PA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Saylor Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Coplay, PA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Samuel Owens Restaurant & Bar or visit George Taylor House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Coplay, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Coplay, PA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Coplay, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Coplay, PA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your PA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Coplay, PA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Coplay, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Coplay, PA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Coplay, PA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Sacred Heart Senior Living by the Creek
  • Fellowship Community
  • Renaissance Home Northampton
  • Snyper LLC
  • Whitehall Manor
  • Fellowship Terrace
Home Care Coplay, PA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Coplay, PA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Coplay, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Coplay, PA

Latest News in Coplay, PA

A visit to Saquon Barkley’s tiny hometown reveals who he really is

COPLAY, Pa. — Here in this close-knit little town of 3,500 people, they are counting down the hours until the native son they call Sa Sa (pronounced: Say Say) is welcomed into the NFL on Thursday night — possibly by the nearby New York Football Giants.At Samuel Owens Casual Family Dining across the street from where the Barkley family lives in a red brick row home on North Second Street, they have scheduled a draft party Thursday night.“I got people calling up left and right for reservations,” owner Will...

COPLAY, Pa. — Here in this close-knit little town of 3,500 people, they are counting down the hours until the native son they call Sa Sa (pronounced: Say Say) is welcomed into the NFL on Thursday night — possibly by the nearby New York Football Giants.

At Samuel Owens Casual Family Dining across the street from where the Barkley family lives in a red brick row home on North Second Street, they have scheduled a draft party Thursday night.

“I got people calling up left and right for reservations,” owner William Loy said. “People are coming at 5 just to get a seat.”

Stacey Oswald, a waitress at Samuel Owens, has known Barkley since he was a tot growing up in an apartment on nearby Front Street.

“My son Joey was playing football with him in the snow and Joey’s kneecap popped out,” she said. “I’m a Cowboy fan, but I’ll take him with the Giants!”

To a man and to a woman, Saquon Barkley is too good to be true. Linda Schmall is a neighbor of the family.

“Very nice boy, and his brothers and sisters are very nice,” she said. “Polite, courteous. His parents are great. They’re very nice neighbors.”

Alicia Knauff is the assistant principal at Whitehall High School, where Barkley was as dynamic on the football field as he is humble off it. Her daughter Shadimon Navarro has been friends with him since middle school.

“The football booster club is sponsoring a draft party at a local restaurant in Allentown for Whitehall alums, for Whitehall students, people in the community,” she said. “I think people have been talking about him since this journey started, and it really kind of has exploded. Because I think people that only knew him on the surface that like once he started to get a little bit of fame that things would probably change — and that never happened.”

She knew her daughter would be in good hands with Barkley.

“I’m an assistant principal. I never like would let my daughter go to any parties. I was always like, ‘Wherever you do is a reflection of me,” Knauff said. “And I remember after senior prom, he’s like, ‘C’mon, just let her go with me out after prom. It will be fine, I promise you. I’m not gonna jeopardize my scholarship. Just let her go with me, Miss Knauff.’ ”

Stacey beams as she shows off the Twitter photo of Barkley holding his newborn daughter in his arms.

“He’s just that kind of kid like everyone knew,” Knauff said.

And liked.

“I can’t even think of a bad story to give you,” Knauff said. “The worst thing that they did is, I think, like run through the halls to get to lunch early or pretend like they were playing games in the halls like they were 10-year-olds, but they’re in high school.”

Linda McGill was Barkley’s guidance counselor.

“He’s beautiful inside and out,” she said, adding, “Be kind to him in any article! We love him.”

Whitehall football coach Brian Gilbert can imagine Barkley running wild inside MetLife Stadium.

“It’s gonna be a highlight film,” Gilbert said. “Hold your breath every time he gets the ball. Giant fans are gonna be in for a treat. It could be really electric there in that stadium, with Eli [Manning], Odell [Beckham Jr.] and the rest of the crew. I think it could be very special.”

Gilbert has no doubt Barkley can be the face of a franchise.

“Eli Manning will love having Saquon because Eli is a straight arrow, a great leader, and I think Saquon’s gonna be a great follower to that type of leadership,” Gilbert said.

And a leader in his own right, in his own way.

“If you ever pull up Saquon Barkley on social media, all you see is workout videos and I think that’s contagious,” Gilbert said. “I think other guys want to be around him to work out. I think having Saquon as a prospect might help Odell want to be there and act and do the right things. I think that’s the kind of impact Saquon has on people. People want to be around him.”

Giants rookie Saquon Barkley fulfills promise by buying his parents a house

When Saquon Barkley was a child, his parents uprooted their family from the South Bronx to find a better life in Coplay, Pa.The decision by Alibay Barkley and Tonya Johnson made young Saquon’s eventual rise to stardom as a Penn State running back possible, and one that the Giants rookie has ...

When Saquon Barkley was a child, his parents uprooted their family from the South Bronx to find a better life in Coplay, Pa.

The decision by Alibay Barkley and Tonya Johnson made young Saquon’s eventual rise to stardom as a Penn State running back possible, and one that the Giants rookie has long promised to reward.

Now with a lucrative first-year contract as Big Blue’s No. 2 overall pick, Barkley has showed that he’s a man of his word.

On Tuesday night, the 21-year-old shared a picture on his Instagram account of him standing in front of a stately house with a “sold” sign from an Allentown, Pa. realtor. And just like his cover photo on this week’s ESPN The Magazine Body Issue, Saquon is all smiles.

“Something I promised my parents, ever since I was a young kid,” he wrote. “Finally be able [sic] to achieve that goal is the most amazing feeling. Every kid out there that has a dream continue to keep your head down and work you butt off, great things will come along the way.”

Alibay and Tonya sought a better environment for their children outside of the Bronx, where Alibay had struggled with drug addiction and served a year in jail on Rikers Island for a gun charge. Johnson wanted to raise her kids in Pennsylvania, where her grandmother lived, which led Barkley to discover his passion for football.

“I wanted them to have this. To be able to do this,” Johnson told the Daily News in April when her son was introduced as a Giant. “When you go to the park and you’re able sit there and just constantly watch them all the time like — there was more grass out there. The air was better and Saquon had asthma when he was a child. Every time he went out there he didn’t need the pump. He didn’t need the machine. So it was just a better environment.”

Throughout his journey from young talent to Penn State legend and now NFL rookie, Barkley has proven to have never lost gratitude for his parents and their decision that helped shape him.

Visiting the Historic and Abandoned Coplay Cement Kilns

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. We will make a small commission from these links if you order something at no additional cost to you.Pennsylvania’s industrial history is well documented, and few regions had as much industrialization and variety of industries as the Lehigh Valley.While the ...

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. We will make a small commission from these links if you order something at no additional cost to you.

Pennsylvania’s industrial history is well documented, and few regions had as much industrialization and variety of industries as the Lehigh Valley.

While the steel industry is most often connected to this part of eastern PA, thanks primarily to Bethlehem Steel, the region was also a hub of transportation, textiles, and even the cement industry.

In 1871, David Saylor was the first person to make Portland cement in the United States. David, along with two of his business associates from Allentown, created the Coplay Cement Company in 1866 to produce this necessary product for America’s growing cities and towns.

Based in the Lehigh County community of Coplay, the company created Portland cement using stone found along the nearby Lehigh River. At that time, this type of cement was primarily made from rock that already contained the two main ingredients: limestone and either clay or shale.

In 1892-1893, nine kilns were built near the river just north of Coplay. These kilns, which were originally inside a large building, replaced less efficient kilns run by the company. However, new technology soon caused these new kilns to become obsolete, and they were shut down in 1904.

Since 1975, they have been owned by the county and used as a tool for people to learn about the area’s industrial history.

Today, the kilns are a focal point of Saylor Park in Coplay.

In addition to the kilns, this 2.6-acre park features a pool and a playground. It is located along the 9-mile Ironton Rail Trail that runs through the region. A nice 5.5-mile loop encircles the town of Coplay and offers a nice walking or bike riding trail for locals and visitors.

Preservation work is ongoing at the Coplay Kilns, but visitors can walk up to near the base to see these massive 90-foot-tall kilns. It’s worth noting that a fence encircles the site, so you can get close to them, but you can’t walk around or through them at this time.

Nearby, there are signs that offer a lot of great history about the kilns and the historical importance of Portland Cement in the Lehigh Valley and throughout the United States.

If you love industrial history, the Coplay Cement Kilns are a great place to check out if you are traveling around the Lehigh Valley. While they might not be worth a long trip to see on their own, they are well worth combining together with a visit to the National Museum of Industrial History and the Hoover-Mason Trestle, both at the old Bethlehem Steel site in nearby Bethlehem, PA. You can also learn more about the area’s cement history on the nearby Hassen Nature Trail.

How to Get to the Coplay Kilns

The Coplay Kilns are located in Saylor Park just north of Coplay, Pennsylvania. They can be found at the following coordinates: 40.676741, -75.495958.

Parking is located about 100 feet away in the park’s large parking area. A flat trail leads to near the base of the kilns.

The park’s address is 245 N 2nd St, Coplay, PA 18037.

Looking for more great things to do in and around Allentown? Check out the America on Wheels Museum, the covered bridges of Lehigh County, and Dutch Springs.

[Click here for information on how to use the coordinates in this article to find your destination.]

Saquon Barkley’s goal is to be one of the best running backs ever

Saquon Barkley has made it clear that his dancing days are over, on and off the field, so when he was asked Thursday if he is motivated to become one of the greatest running backs ever, he hit the hole with his shoulder pads squared.“That’s the goal,” he said.Barkley was standing inside a circle of writers and cameras in the Giants’ locker room, before he left with his 3...

Saquon Barkley has made it clear that his dancing days are over, on and off the field, so when he was asked Thursday if he is motivated to become one of the greatest running backs ever, he hit the hole with his shoulder pads squared.

“That’s the goal,” he said.

Barkley was standing inside a circle of writers and cameras in the Giants’ locker room, before he left with his 3-1 team on the long journey to London to play Aaron Rodgers and his 3-1 Packers. The NFL’s leading rusher admitted to being slightly more amped whenever the opposition includes a legacy talent.

Can the 25-year-old Barkley someday stand among the all-time titans at his position like the 38-year-old Rodgers stands among them at his?

“If I put in the right work and have the right mindset, do I believe I can achieve that?” Barkley said. “I really do.”

This wouldn’t surprise anyone who has known Barkley since he was a small-town high school legend in eastern Pennsylvania. Back home in Coplay, Pa., they recall young Saquon asking questions about where the best of his generation ranked against the old timers in their football-mad state. One friend would later remember Barkley saying he wouldn’t mind getting drafted No. 1 overall by Cleveland in 2018 and assuming a LeBron James-like burden of ending the Browns’ championship drought.

The running back loves history, and statistical comparisons, and GOAT conversations — a truth he confirmed to a few reporters while sitting near his stall, wearing a white Penn State shirt and alternatively cradling and bouncing a blue rubber ball meant to improve his ball security. Given that he wants to go down among the very best, Barkley eagerly engaged in a conversation about the greatest running backs to come before him.

“I’d say the best player of all time is Barry Sanders,” he said, before putting Walter Payton on the same level as Sanders, with a drop-off after those two.

Barkley said he hasn’t seen enough footage of Jim Brown for an honest evaluation. He talked up Emmitt Smith, Adrian Peterson (“a freak of nature”), Eric Dickerson, and LaDainian Tomlinson, among others. He grew up a Jets fan, so he remains loyal to Curtis Martin. Barkley said he’d love to include Bo Jackson on his all-time list because of his talent, “but the numbers don’t back it up.”

Numbers. Barkley is big on numbers. He knew that Smith had cleared 18,000 rushing yards in setting the NFL career record. He knew that Tomlinson had 28 rushing touchdowns in one season, but wasn’t among the backs to hit the 2,000-yard rushing mark. He knew that Sanders had hurdled the 2,000-yard mark in 1997 and retired the following year. He knew that San Francisco’s Roger Craig was the first to gain 1,000 yards running and 1,000 yards receiving in the same season, 1985. He knew that Marshall Faulk and Christian McCaffrey were the others to accomplish the feat.

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“That’s why I’m going to be on TV,” Barkley said.

He’s got a whole lot of football to play between now and that move into the broadcasting booth. Before the knee and ankle injuries derailed him, Barkley nearly won the league’s rushing title as a rookie in 2018, when his 1,307 yards landed him 127 yards behind Ezekiel Elliott.

“I had more all-purpose yards,” Barkley added, and indeed his 2,028 that year beat Elliott’s total by 27.

In a modern pass-happy game that doesn’t provide running backs the carries they got back in the day, Barkley believes all-purpose yards have become the true standard for the men who play his position. Through four games he leads the NFL in all-purpose yards (570) and in rushing yards (463) while tied with Cincinnati’s Joe Mixon for the league lead in touches (99).

Asked during his formal interview session if he is concerned about the workload, Barkley responded, “I missed so many games the last couple of years. For me complaining about touches, or being worried about touches, that would be just stupid of me.”

Especially when he has so much ground to cover to catch the legends of his craft.

“You see that right there,” he said from his locker chair, pointing across the room at the Giants’ Ring of Honor names on the wall. “That’s cool to me.”

Barkley spoke with anger before the season started, warning the doubters that he was ready to explode. He is on his way to having an Aaron Judge kind of contract year, and someone close to the running back reiterated Thursday that Brian Daboll’s approach has been a difference-maker.

What do you think? Post a comment.

“You hear, ‘Happy wife, happy life,’ but this is, ‘Happy coach, happy life,’ ” that person told The Post. “Daboll believes in transformational coaching, not transactional coaching, and that’s really worked with Saquon.”

Everything has worked with Saquon so far, which is why he’s gained more rushing yards than 21 NFL teams. The Giants barely have any healthy wide receivers on this London trip, and Daniel Jones is a bit hobbled

So don’t be surprised if the fans enter Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday talking about Aaron Rodgers, and leave talking about Saquon Barkley.

Pro wrestling dreams come true in an old Lehigh Valley warehouse

COPLAY, Pa. - Lehigh Valley residents hoping to get some exercise, have fun and show off their pro-wrestling moves may have found an outlet in Coplay.A man who only goes by "Chad DeKroeger — the Nickelback of Cats" walked into a warehouse between the borough cemetery and sports field complex. He wore a bright red, classic wrestling mask with cat ears, and holes for his eyes, nose and mouth. The rest of his outfit was sweatpants and an old T-shirt.Inside the old building, heavy metal music blasted out of a stereo...

COPLAY, Pa. - Lehigh Valley residents hoping to get some exercise, have fun and show off their pro-wrestling moves may have found an outlet in Coplay.

A man who only goes by "Chad DeKroeger — the Nickelback of Cats" walked into a warehouse between the borough cemetery and sports field complex. He wore a bright red, classic wrestling mask with cat ears, and holes for his eyes, nose and mouth. The rest of his outfit was sweatpants and an old T-shirt.

Inside the old building, heavy metal music blasted out of a stereo that looked like it was from the 1990s.

Listen to the audio story

Photo: Wrestler Kevin Rodger poses during a rest break. He said he loves wrestling and would like to go pro someday.

Other wrestlers climbed over the ropes of the square wrestling ring and did some guided stretches. They wore tall, laced up wrestling boots. Some had old World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. [WWE] T-shirts on with the sleeves ripped off.

DeKroeger taunted fellow wrestlers and acted like a pro wrestler would during WWE interviews on prime-time television.

"This is the real deal, there ain't no pretending," DeKroeger shouted. "You're talking to the excellent professional wrestling champion right here."

DeKroeger wore a trophy belt he had previously won from Excellence Professional Wrestling — a Pennsylvania wrestling league that took a hiatus during COVID-19, which is now starting back up. Some people at the Pro Wrestling Workout are involved in that league, which is a separate organization.

After a warmup, participants begin wrestling drills that ramp up in difficulty.

In the first exercise participants run from one corner of the ring to another, performing barrel rolls between corners. Then they jump up and slam themselves to the ground onto their backs. The group leader shared special instructions on how to fall safely — like landing on arched shoulders, instead of the lower back or head.

Whenever someone slams onto the surface of the ring, it made a loud banging sound. Some of the participants exaggerated this for entertainment effect.

Staying in character

Some wrestlers remain in character the entire time, which doesn't appear to phase the other participants.

"Sometimes, wrestlers who have been wrestling before, will come to our workout, and bring their personas with them," organizer Danny Rowe said with a laugh. "It's hard for them to turn off the off switch while they're here. But you know what? It's appreciated. We like when they come here. The class really likes it, and it really makes the pro wrestling workout an experience."

"Sometimes, wrestlers who have been wrestling before, will come to our workout, and bring their personas with them. It's hard for them to turn off the off switch while they're here."
Danny Rowe, Pro Wrestling Workout organizer

"DeKroeger," the man in the red cat mask, is French-Canadian, spent some time living in Toronto and has been wrestling for about a decade. But he shared few other details, besides taunts directed at his "enemies," and some complaints about previous COVID-19 restrictions.

He said he is friends with another wrestler who goes by "Butt Gunderson." It was unclear how much of this information was factual, and how much of it was his character's fictional backstory.

Inclusivity in the ring

Rowe said he wants everyone to feel comfortable at his workout.

"Wrestling has always been this kind of niche thing," Rowe explained. "I think a lot of people think they can't break into it. But what we'd like to bring here is just a sense of inclusivity. We want everyone to feel welcome here."

Rowe said he's been injured in his wrestling career but there have not been any injuries at his workouts.

During the Sunday workout, two wrestlers appeared to accidentally head-butt each other, with an audible, "Ow!" But they were up and back to action after Rowe made sure everybody was OK. He shared some tips on how to make sure it doesn't happen again.

The group is mostly men, but Jennifer Dowd was one of the women in attendance. She started her involvement as a photographer but then decided to learn the sport.

"I grew up watching wrestling, so don't find it too macho," she said with a chuckle.

Rowe said he had advice for anyone on the fence about trying the wrestling workout.

"This is for everyone. Don't be intimidated, don't be scared. We will work with you," he said. "It is a lot of fun, we have a blast here — and come out because your first class is free."

Rowe's Pro Wrestling Workout happens every Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at 155 N 9th St. in Coplay.

More information is available on their Facebook page.

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