PHILADELPHIA - The beloved "Toys "R" Us" jingle might soon be echoing through the halls of King of Prussia Mall and Deptford Mall once again! In an exciting move for holiday shoppers and nostalgic adults alike, the iconic toy retailer is making a significant comeback this holiday season, announcing the opening of numerous pop-up and seasonal stores across the nation, including two strategically placed locations in the greater Philadelphia region: King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and Deptford, New Jersey.

PENNSYLVANIA - Pennsylvania boasts a true champion for epic bike trails: the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP).  Stretching an impressive 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, the GAP is the longest multi-use trail in the state, but its reach doesn't end there.

Biking the Great Allegheny Passage: A Guide to PA's 334.5-Mile Trail to D.C.

For cyclists, hikers, and outdoor adventurers seeking the ultimate East Coast journey, one route stands above all: the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). This iconic trail is Pennsylvania's true "cycling crown jewel," offering a world-class experience in its own right.

But its most remarkable feature is what happens in Cumberland, Maryland. Here, the GAP seamlessly connects with the C&O Canal Towpath, creating one continuous, stunning, and car-free trail network. This combined route stretches for 334.5 miles, guiding you from the heart of Pennsylvania's mountains to the historic waterfront in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

A Journey Through Nature and Time

The GAP —the Pennsylvania portion of the journey —winds through the picturesque Laurel Highlands. As a "rail-trail," it was built on the path of former railroad lines, giving it two major advantages:

• A Smooth Surface: The trail features a smooth, crushed limestone surface, perfect for all types of bikes.
• Gentle Grades: The path is nearly level, making it accessible for cyclists of all ages and skill levels, from families on a casual ride to long-distance endurance cyclists.

Highlights to See Along the GAP

As you pedal, you'll be immersed in a landscape of breathtaking vistas, dense forests, and charming towns. The trail is dotted with fascinating landmarks, including:

• Historic bridges and long, dark railroad tunnels
• The scenic, winding Youghiogheny River
• Quaint trail towns perfect for an overnight stay
• The historic Mason-Dixon Line, where you can literally stand in two states at once

The Grand Adventure: Connecting to the C&O Canal

For those seeking the full 334.5-mile adventure, the journey continues at the C&O Canal Towpath. This historic canal path offers a different, but equally captivating, experience as it follows the Potomac River. You'll marvel at historic lockhouses, aqueducts, and other 19th-century engineering feats.

Your grand adventure concludes in the vibrant urban center of Georgetown. After miles of serene nature, you're rewarded with charming cobblestone streets, a historic waterfront, and a diverse culinary scene—the perfect way to celebrate the end of an unparalleled journey.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the Great Allegheny Passage offers an unforgettable experience. Pedal through history, immerse yourself in nature's splendor and create lasting memories on this iconic Pennsylvania trail.

The online gaming industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. Fueled by the rapid advancement of technology, increasing smartphone penetration, and the ongoing evolution of player preferences, digital gaming is more popular than ever. According to a 2024 report by the American Gaming Association (AGA), U.S. commercial gaming revenue surpassed $67 billion for the year — a new record. This explosive growth has been driven in large part by the expansion of online and mobile gaming, along with shifting demographics that reflect a broader, more diverse player base than ever before.

VIRGINIA - Virginia is a state steeped in history, and with that history comes a tapestry of town and county names derived from Native American languages, British figures, and French settlers. For outsiders, navigating this linguistic landscape can be a minefield. While there are plenty of contenders, one name almost universally trips up newcomers: Staunton.

The Clear Winner: Staunton

If you want to immediately identify yourself as "not from around here," just pronounce this city in the Shenandoah Valley the way it's spelled.

• How Outsiders Say It: "STAWN-ton" or "STOW-ton"
• How Virginians Say It: "STAN-ton"

That's right, the "au" is pronounced as a simple, flat "a," just like in the name "Stan." This pronunciation is a classic shibboleth—a linguistic test that separates locals from visitors. The city, which is the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson and home to the American Shakespeare Center, holds firm to its unique pronunciation, much to the confusion of tourists.

The Honorable Mentions: Other Virginia Tongue-Twisters

While Staunton often takes the top prize, it's far from the only challenge. Here are a few other names that will have visitors scratching their heads.

Norfolk

This is perhaps the second most famous offender, known for its myriad of local pronunciations. The one thing everyone agrees on is how not to say it.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Nor-FOLK" (pronouncing the "L" and hitting the "folk" hard)
• How Locals Say It: "NAW-fok" or "NOR-fok" (The "L" is completely silent, and the second syllable is minimized.)

Wytheville

Located in Southwest Virginia, this town's name seems straightforward until you try it.

• How Outsiders Say It: "WHY-th-vil" or "WITH-ee-vil"
• How Locals Say It: "WITH-vil" (The "y" is pronounced like a short "i," and the "e" at the end is silent.)

Fauquier

This county in Northern Virginia is a remnant of its French roots.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Faw-KWEER" or "Faw-kee-ay"
• How Locals Say It: "Faw-KEER"

Botetourt

Another county with a French name that has been thoroughly Virginian-ized over the centuries.

• How Outsiders Say It: "Bo-teh-TORT" or "Bot-a-TOUR"
• How Locals Say It: "BOT-a-tot" (It rhymes with "what-a-tot.")

From Chincoteague ("SHIN-ko-teeg") to Goochland ("GOOCH-land"), the list goes on. But if you want to master just one, start with Staunton. Getting that one right is the first step to sounding like a true Virginian.