News in Mt. Airy Scammers Strike Again

Transcription

News in Mt. Airy Scammers Strike Again
Mount
Happy
Airy
Holidays!
Independent
December 24, 2009 • Volume 1 • Number 35
5275 Germantown Avenue • Philadelphia, PA 19144 • 215-438-4000 • germantownnewspapers.com
Scammers
Strike
Again
By PATRICK COBBS
Staff Writer
A team of scammers preying on seniors
in the Northwest [story, issue of
December 3] struck again this month,
conning a 77-year old woman out of
$2,700 in cash on December 3 by convincing her to drive them to her bank and
withdraw money. The crooks have conned
at least five area senior women out of
$20,000 in cash since March. As with the
crimes reported previously, this latest victim was not physically harmed.
A tall African American man, about 6’
1” or 6’ 2” and speaking in an African
accent, approached the victim outside the
produce market at the corner of Greene
and Harvey Streets. He asked for help
finding a church. Then a second man also African American but shorter - joined
in. The second man acted like a stranger
who claimed to know where the church in
question was located.
Together the two men, playing the roles
of strangers trying to help each other, convinced the victim to take them in her vehicle and stop at a bank to make a large cash
withdrawal.
Continued on page 2
News in
Mt. Airy
We Deliver to 17,000
Households in Mt. Airy
Avenida Opens..............................................2
Brain Exercises..............................................3
Opinions........................................................4
Letters............................................................5
Community Calendar .................................6-7
Police Briefs...................................................8
Holiday Shopping ....................................9-10
Education.......................................................11
Religion..........................................................12
Real Estate....................................................12
Maternal Outreach Grant............................14
Business Directory..................................13-14
Classifieds.....................................................15
More than 12 inches of snow may be a foot-high nuisance for adults, but for kids it’s a winter wonderland. And as usual on the occasion of
a big snow, Tommy’s Hill in back of the Thomas Mansion at Wissahickon Avenue and Johnson Street was thronged with dozens of sledders
of all ages on Sunday, December 20. Above, Donald Baxter (foreground) gives his daughter Layla her first ride down the hill. Baxter grew
up in the area but now lives in Wyncote; he and his family drove to Tommy’s Hill to go sledding because, he says, “It’s a tradition.”
YMCA Board Plans March Limited Opening
By PATRICK COBBS
Staff Writer
The YMCA of Germantown held its first official membership
meeting in three years on December 16 at First United Methodist
Church of Germantown, and the organization’s Board of
Directors proposed a lot of changes.
A change of name. Changes to bylaws. Changes to the board
itself. And, after more than a year and a half staying locked up, a
change to the building’s front doors. The board announced that it
expects to open them for limited community programming by the
end of March, 2010.
“It’s much better than I anticipated when I walked in,” board
member and architect Peter Bentivegna said of the building’s
condition.
He and fellow board member Dan McDevitt of Turner
Construction, have been working with past Y Executive Director
Peter Smith recently to form a strategy for opening the Y. The
hope is to get the facility fully operational, or very close to it, by
the summer, with the highest-used services like the after school
program up and running by March.
Some portions of the building are worse off than others after
the sprinkler pipe burst in July, 2008 that forced the building’s
closure, but over all the board members categorized the damage
as very fixable. The locker rooms, some of the bathrooms and the
pool area will likely take the most time to get ready, so the board
aims to bring programs back on line first that don’t require a
heavy use of those facilities.
“We will open in a phased fashion,” Bentivegna explained.
“The after school programs don’t have a lot of need for the locker room area and probably have less of a need for bathrooms.”
According to Bentivegna and McDevitt, most of the Y fitness
programs would likely need to come on line with the new locker
rooms. That may take a few more months because they want to
make long overdue upgrades in addition to repairs to the locker
areas. The women’s lockers, for example, were really built for
boys back when the organization only accepted male members,
according to Bentivegna, and the space could use some changes
to reflect its current use.
Board members spoke to a room full of Y members at the First
United Methodist Church of Germantown that night. There were
moments of applause and moments of heckling. Margaret
Robinson expressed doubt in the new board’s legitimacy and Tim
Smigelski expressed doubt in the vision for the Y. It happened
that some of the changes suggested by board members that night
at least partially addressed both issues.
The first member action of the night was to change the organization’s name. Because of legal requirements related to the loss
of a charter license from the YMCA of the USA in June 2009
(under a different board configuration), the organization needed
to eliminate “YMCA” from its name. To that end, the members
Continued on page 2
Page 2
December 24, 2009
The Mt. Airy Independent
Avenida Brings Latin Cuisine to Germantown & Gowen
By KARL BIEMULLER
Editor
The newest addition to Mt. Airy’s
Germantown Avenue businesses district
has an appropriate name: Avenida, which is
Spanish for “Avenue.”
The husband-and-wife chef team of
Edgar and Kim Alvarez opened the doors
of Avenida, at the corner of Germantown
and Gowen avenues, for the first time on
Thursday evening, December 17 for what
Kim Alvarez described in an interview the
next day as “a good crowd – it was nice.”
For the Alvarezes, who have a wealth of
culinary experience at a number of
Philadelphia-area restaurants, including the
original Dock Street, Striped Bass, and
Chin Chin, Avenida is a dream come true.
Most recently they operated the Delaware
Market House in Gladwynne as a gourmet
take-out and catering operation. But their
goal was to use their experience in their
own restaurant.
“This is something that we’ve deeply
wanted,” said Edgar. Their goal, he said, is
“to create a place that people will want to
come back to.”
To that end, he emphasized, Avenida will
be a restaurant with a small bar attached,
not a bar/restaurant; similar, in other words,
to the Cresheim Cottage Café that formerly
occupied the site. At present the restaurant
does not have a liquor license. The
Alvarezes wanted so badly to open their
restaurant, they said, that they decided not
Owners/chefs Edgar and Kim Alvarez in the main dining room at Avenida, 7402
Germantown Avenue.
to wait for their license to be approved
before opening Avenida.
Those who dined at Cresheim Cottage
Café will be familiar with the layout at
Avenida because it is basically the same as
the former restaurant. But the décor is dif-
ferent – warmly–colored Spanish colonial –
and so is the food. Avenida will feature
Latin dishes inspired by Edgar’s heritage.
Edgar was raised in Guatemala, where he
first learned cooking from his mother and
grandmother.
On the initial menu are soups and salads,
including “El Biche,” (described as
Ecuadorian boullabaisse) priced from $6-9.
Appetizers include queso fondido, mole
glazed spareribs, fried calamari and more,
again priced at $6-9.
Among the entrees are flat iron steak with
chimichurri, pepita and pistachio-crusted
swordfish, Chicken Mishote with leeks,
peas and yellow squash, and Pork Pibil with
green mole and zucchini cheese pudding.
Entrees are priced between $14-19.
As the Alvarezes get feedback from their
customers the menu may change a bit –
when you open a restaurant, said Kim,
“You have ideas about the food and what’s
going to work and then the customers have
theirs” – but it will retain its Latin character.
Come spring the Alvarezes plan to feature outdoor dining in the rear of the restaurant such as was popular at the Cresheim
Cottage Café. “We’re really looking forward to it,” said Kim.
And one thing that both the Alvarezes
emphasized was that a “family-friendly”
atmosphere is a key part of what they’re
trying to create. “It’s key for us,” said
Edgar. “We welcome the kids. We had a
family with kids in [on opening night] and
the parents really appreciated it.”
For more information or to make a reservation, call Avenida at 267-385-6857 or
visit www.avenidarestaurant.com. Onstreet parking is available on Germantown
Avenue.
YMCA Board Plans March Limited Opening
Continued from page 1
officially
chose
“The
Germantown Y” for the new
name, after some debate.
The chief concern among
members over the new name was
whether or not to retain the term
“Christian.” Rozella Ballard was
worried about a degraded sense
of mission if the term was lost.
“That sounds like taking the
Christ out of Christmas and making it Xmas,” she said.
But without the brand-type
recognition of the “YMCA” as
being a fully open institution,
others saw the potential for unintentionally turning off nonChristian community members if
the new name included the term
“Christian.”
“I think we want to project in
our name that we’re open to
everybody,”
said
Chris
Nicholson. “Germantown is
known for its diversity. I think to
put in our name a restriction is a
mistake.”
And to some, the issue of mission was rooted more in the
actions of the organization than
its title.
“There’s a lot of organizations
with ‘Christian’ in their name
that don’t act Christian,” said
Malik Boyd. “I think the impor-
Several Y members called for a
change to the bylaws allowing a
membership vote to remove any
board members if they were not
performing. Foster said the board
would consider such a change at
future meetings.
All of the proposed changes to
bylaws passed without an opposing vote.
The last matter of business was
the board composition itself.
Currently there are 14 members
but the bylaws require 21. So the
board also asked members to
help begin a nomination process
Flanked by board secretary Connie Bille, board
chair Jim Foster addresses members at the members’ meeting at First
United Methodist Church
of Germantown.
to recruit new members who
would make a strong commitment to getting the organization
back on its feet.
Toward the goal of getting the
facility open, the Y is planning a
community workday for the
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of
Service January 18, 2010, and it
needs volunteers who can help
fix up the building. Registration
for the workday and board member nominations can be made
through [email protected] or by calling 215-8489601.
Scammers Strike Again
tant thing is remaining true to the
original purpose.”
Another major action included
a long list of changes to the organization’s bylaws, most of which
board members said were geared
toward giving the membership
more power to question and overrule sitting board members if the
organization should ever find
itself in a crisis like it has faced
over the last year and a half.
“This organization has been
operating like a ship without an
anchor, and without an propeller
for quite some time,” said Board
President Jim Foster.
Foster, who is also the publisher of Germantown Newspapers,
joined the board officially in the
summer with nine others who
were elected by a membership
vote at an emergency meeting
called by members in May. At
first the existing board did not
recognize the new board members, or even the meeting they
were elected in, though there was
a provision for such meetings in
the organization’s bylaws.
Continued from page 1
14th Police District Victim’s
Assistance
Officer
Sabra
Johnson believes there is at least
one more accomplice to the
crime team – a driver who follows behind the victim’s car and
picks up the two men when the
victim drops them off. According
to some witness accounts this
third accomplice could be a
white man.
Officer Johnson is worried
about local seniors because she is
convinced the scammers are targeting the area, particularly
Germantown, and they know
how to put people at ease.
Realizing this, she thought the
first line of defense should be an
abundance of caution with
strangers.
“Anyone you don’t really
know, you should not engage in
conversations,” she said. “You’re
on a fixed income. You don’t
have money to give away. You
have to be careful.”
According to Johnson the
Police Major Crimes Unit is
investigating the area senior
scams, and she plans to hold an
outreach soon to build awareness
in the area.
The Mt. Airy Independent
December 24, 2009
Page 3
Brain Exercises at CIP Help Keep Seniors Sharp
By REBECCA PETER and
KAYLEIGH REED
Editorial Staff Interns
One by one, they filed into the
room and pinned on a nametag
with their first names in bold,
black
letters:
Mildred…Laura…Ollie…Gladys.
They and others gathered around
two big tables on a recent
Thursday morning at Center in the
Park (CIP) in Germantown as the
instructor posed a question from a
warm-up exercise taken from a
book titled Mind Your Mind.
Participants had to name 10
places that started with the letter
“N.” When the group reached 14,
the instructor asked: “Who can
give me another place that starts
with ‘N’?”
After a moment’s pause, a few
hands flew into the air.
“Nicaragua!” A chorus of oo’s and
ah’s followed.
The men and women gathered at
CIP, 5818 Germantown Avenue,
for a recent session of the Brain
Health Workshop weren’t just
having fun. They were also doing
an exercise that scientists believe
will help them maintain their
memory as they age.
“I was forgetting things, such as
doctor’s appointments and meetings,” said Dionne Jones, 65, a
retired high school teacher who
took part in the recent session. “I
Dionne Jones with the calendar she uses to refresh her memory and
keep up to date.
wanted an avenue to improve my
brain so that I would remember
these important things.”
Jones is one of hundreds of seniors who have participated in the
workshops, which have been
going on for six years. The program, funded by the National
Institute of Mental Health, is part
of a study being conducted by
Thomas Jefferson University’s
Center for Applied Research on
Aging and Health.
The Brain Health Workshop is
only one facet of the “Touch:
Mind, Body & Spirit” program put
together by Thomas Jefferson
University and Center in the Park,
working as partners. Focusing on
mind and memory, the program
targets older African American
men and women.
Nancy
Chernett
is
Project Director for the Jefferson
Center of Applied Research on
Aging and Health (CARAH). She
said the collaboration with CIP,
which
serves
a
predominantly African American
community, aims to examine the
experience of aging among
African Americans, a population
that historically has been left out
of medical research. As Chernett
put it, “Almost everything we
know about aging is based on the
predominant white population.”
This idea underlies CARAH’s
Public Meeting on Wissahickon Problems
The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers Philadelphia District
(USACE) and the Philadelphia
Water Department (PWD) are
conducting a feasibility study for
Wissahickon
Creek
in
Philadelphia and Montgomery
Counties. A public meeting to
discuss this project is being held
at Founder’s Hall on the New
Covenant
Campus,
7500
Germantown
Avenue,
on
Thursday, January 14, 6-9 p.m.
The feasibility study will
examine and consider potential
solutions to problems in the
Wissahickon watershed identified in a reconnaissance report.
This report determined the
Wissahickon watershed had a
poor-quality aquatic habitat,
stream-flow variability issues,
flooding problems, and overall
ecosystem imbalances. Several
possible solutions under consideration include stabilization of
the stream bank, natural stream
channel restoration, fish passage
construction, and wetlands creation.
The study will focus on several
sections of Wissahickon Creek
and its tributaries in Philadelphia,
including Little and Big Ridge
Avenue Dams, Monoshone
Creek, Carpenter’s Woods,
WANTED!
Barbers & Stylists
Fred’s Heads
1505 Wadsworth Ave. •Philadelphia
215-242-5650
$1,000 BONUS
(For a stylist with large following)
+
$100 Finders Fee
Ask for Nakia
Gorgas Lane, Livezey Dam,
Cresheim Dam and Creek,
Magargee Dam, Cathedral Run,
and Thomas Mill Dam.
In addition to PWD the
USACE is working with other
agencies and organizations,
including the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, and Biohabitats
Inc. Funding for the feasibility
study is cost-shared between
USACE and PWD.
research and collaboration with
CIP, which serves large numbers
of older African Americans. “This
is where research is going,” said
Chernett “Community participation in research is important to
understanding and responding to
peoples’ needs.”
The research at Center in the
Park builds on recent discoveries
about neuron connections in the
brain. Traditionally, doctors
believed that new connections
made between neurons were not
formed after a certain age and, in
fact, started to disappear in later
years.
But new findings have challenged that belief. “What surprised
us was that connections apparently
continue to form throughout the
majority, if not all, of the life of the
brain,” said Dr. William
Greenough, a member of the
Division of Geriatric Medicine at
Johns Hopkins School of
Medicine.
Delores Palmer, a retired registered nurse from Hahnemann
University Hospital, facilitates the
brain sessions. To keep neuron
connections sharp, Palmer recommends that people exercise their
brains with activities that interest
them, including reading, puzzles
and even counting vocal pauses
while watching TV.
The idea to count vocal pauses
on TV – the number of times
speakers say “um-m-m” – comes
from the textbook for the class,
Beatrice and Sara Seagull’s book,
Mind Your Mind: A Whole Brain
Workout for Older Adults
(Attainment Company Inc.,
Verona, WI, 2005.) The book
presents exercises aimed at sharpening memory, perception, reasoning and other skills.
In addition, Palmer recommends
that people write all of their
appointments on a large calendar,
place the calendar in a visible
place and check it daily. Never
leave home, she advises, “ without
knowing the date, the day, exactly
where you’re going and how
you’re going to get there.”
Palmer does not think that brain
health is only for the elderly. “I
think it should be a lifetime
thing…we should just continue on
through our lives trying to learn
new things and enhance our memory,” she said.
As a social studies teacher at
Mastbaum High School Dionne
Jones taught 120 students a year.
To learn their names, she had a
system of assigning seats for two
weeks and then allowing the students to sit wherever they’d like.
“I found in the last couple of years,
I couldn’t allow them to move
because it took me longer and
longer to remember their names,”
she said.
Jones, however, was not overly
concerned about her forgetfulness.
“I figured that with age that it’s a
normal progression,” she said. “So
with the brain workshop I’m hoping that it stops, that it doesn’t go
as quickly. I try to keep my brain
going and I think it works.”
One of the most helpful tips that
Jones took away from the workshop was organization. “I now
write everything down on a calendar,” she said. “In addition to that
I use a pocket calendar … and in
the morning I actually refer to both
of them to see where I need to be.”
Similar to exercising, Jones
compared her mind to a muscle.
“You need your brain everyday for
activities,” she said. “The more
you use it, the more you stimulate
it … it’s good that it be nice and
strong and healthy.”
For more information about the
“Touch: Mind, Body & Spirit”
program call CIP at 215-8487722.
(Rebecca Petner and Kayleigh
Reed are members of the
Community Journalism class at
La Salle University.)
9OUR
CHILD
S
MOST
IMPORTANT
TEST
MAY
BE
AN
EYE
TEST
)S
IT
TIME
FOR
YOUR
CHILD
S
EYE
EXAM
4HE
EARL
I
ER
A
CHI
L
D
S
VI
SI
ON
PROBL
EM
I
S
DETECTED
THE
MORE
RESPONSI
VE
THE
VI
SUAL
SYSTEM
WI
L
L
BE
TO
TREATMENT
-AKE
AN
APPOI
NTMENT
TODAYAT4HE%YE)NSTITUTE
TO
ENSURE
YOUR
CHI
L
D
HAS
THE
BEST
POSSI
BL
E
VI
SI
ON
SKI
L
L
S
TO
L
EARN
4HREE
CONVENI
ENT
L
OCATI
ONS
-T
!I
RY
'ERMANTOWN
!VE
/AK
,ANE
7
'ODFREY
!VE
3TRAWBERRY
-ASNI
ON
.
TH
3T
Page 4
December 24, 2009
Editorial
The Mt. Airy Independent
Yesterday in the German Township …
It Mattered
Remember that election we had here only a month and a half ago? If
you don’t it’s not surprising - only a relative handful of Philadelphians
showed up at the polls in the first week in November to cast their ballots for city-wide offices such as City Controller and District Attorney.
Roughly one voter in eight took the minimal steps necessary to express
their preferences for the candidates of their choice.
In the face of such a staggering amount of electoral apathy one can only
conclude that the vast majority of citizens thought that the election was
of little importance and that their choices didn’t matter.
They were wrong.
The recent series in the Philadelphia Inquirer about the city’s criminal
justice system spotlighted just how dysfunctional that whole process has
become. It’s a place where criminals and attorneys game the system to
delay and evade justice, where the coordination between the courts and
police fails all too often to ensure that defendants and witnesses appear
in court when they’re supposed to. The result is that our city has the
lowest rate of felony convictions among 39 major metropolitan areas
surveyed. That directly impacts on the quality of life of every
Philadelphian - and not for the better.
Incoming District Attorney Seth Williams has the Herculean task of
fixing all that. His constant message during his campaign was that the
system was broken and needed a major overhaul. He has promised a
number of reforms, including a decentralization of the current topdown system. That would bring assistant district attorneys and investigators to the city’s neighborhoods where they would be more accessible
to the citizenry and more familiar with the communities they serve.
But it’s no thanks to the electorate that the incoming DA is someone
who has sensible plans for attacking the problems in the justice system.
When only 12 percent of the electorate votes the result isn’t a reasoned
choice. It’s an accident.
This time we were lucky. Williams is familiar with the problems – he
was an experienced and respected Assistant District Attorney under
outgoing DA Lynne Abraham – and knows full well the magnitude of
the task he’s facing. The next time we might not be so fortunate.
Remember that the next time you’re tempted to pass up voting because
“it doesn’t matter who wins.” It always matters.
Karl Biemuller
Editor
Mt. Airy Independent
5275 Germantown Avenue • Philadelphia, PA 19144
215-438-4000 • fax: 215-754-4245
germantownnewspapers.com
Jim Foster, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Publisher
Karl Biemuller, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Managing Editor
Scott Alloway, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Associate Editor
Patrick Cobbs, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Staff Reporter
Rachel Goodwin, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . .Sales Representative
Chris Warfield, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . .Sales Representative
Avis Mudrak, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sales Represntative
Phyllis Sunberg, [email protected] . . . . . . . . . .Classified Advertising
The Mt. Airy Independent is owned and operated by Germantown Newspapers, Inc., and
has offices at 5275 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144. The Mt. Airy Independent
is published every Thursday and is circulated door-to-door throughout Mt. Airy with a press
run of 14,000 copies each week.
The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising. All content ©2009 Germantown
Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved.
This photograph, taken around 1900, shows the building (no longer standing) on Morton Street above
Haines Street as the Morton Street Day Nursery. It had been the mission of St. Michael’s Protestant
Episcopal Church (which explains the look of the windows), which sold it around 1885. “Yesterday in the
German Township” is presented in conjunction with the Germantown Historical Society to give a look back
at the way life was once lived in Germantown, Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill, the old “German Township.”
HIV/AIDS: In Spite of Silence The Fight Continues
By: SHERYL LEE RALPH
and State Senator VINCENT HUGHES
On HIV/AIDS, the silence is deafening. On a disease
that kills millions on every continent in the world, the
quiet hush breaks our eardrums, and works to end our
resolve.
We have been vocal advocates and policy drivers on the
issue of HIV/AIDS for over two decades. Our concern
for this health care epidemic existed prior to our meeting
one another and has only been strengthened since we
became a couple seven years ago.
We have spoken out in almost every forum conceivable, throughout this nation, and around the world.
From small community meetings, to large church groups.
From the neighborhood block captain, to wide eyed high
school students, to heads of state - people of all types
have either wanted to listen to our message, or been
forced to hear our words.
In some cases there have been some positive developments. More communities are moving toward rapid testing
of HIV/AIDS where you can know your status in 20 minutes, as opposed to having to wait a week for the results
through the traditional testing method. More women are
battling to take control of their lives and their sexual health.
Thankfully, more churches and places of worship are getting the word that a sensible health ministry is in good
keeping with the basic tenants of their faith.
But in too many cases there remains a deafening silence
- and consequently the appropriate public policy remains
longing for a response that is consistent with the scourge
of this disease.
Television and radio production people have stopped
discussing the issue. Recently, the Fox affiliate in Los
Angeles refused to run a public service announcement
about HIV. We even got a response from a television
show producer who said that HIV/AIDS is “just not
sexy anymore.” We wondered whether HIV/AIDS is not
sexy or worthy of discussion, or are the people who are
now getting HIV/AIDS in alarming numbers - black
and brown women and children - “not sexy anymore?”
If you look at the map of the spread of HIV/AIDS, it
is breaking out in continents where there are large numbers of poor women and children who have been marginalized and stigmatized. Most of these countries, including the USA, have deficient systems of delivering health
services to this population, and in far too many cases the
women of these nations are not viewed as equals to the
men, and not deserving of high quality health care for
any disease, let alone HIV/AIDS.
Even in the USA, although President Obama has
begun to make real change on HIV/AIDS, the message,
and the policy, has not caught up with the spread of the
disease. In fact, the age-old fear of addressing any disease
that implies that people are having sex has led to a fairly
recent study by the Centers for Disease Control that
indicates that one in four young women of all races and
colors is already infected with some sort of sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Twenty-five years ago, when Dreamgirls opened on
Broadway, people found it easy to disown and abandon
their sick and dying children, who were suffering from this
disease that no one could explain. Twenty-five years later, as
a new version of Dreamgirls begins its national tour, every
time the show is performed the cast represents two of the
fastest growing groups of people in America to become
infected with HIV: young men and young women. But it
appears that they aren’t sexy and worthy of discussion.
They also don’t seem to be worthy of a strong public
policy response. As cities and states face difficult funding
decisions due to the national recession and tight budgets
get slashed to come into balance, HIV education, prevention, and treatment programs become vulnerable.
While we fight to protect their funding, the focus must
shift to Washington DC for the help necessary to deal
with this epidemic. But except for President Obama’s historic march toward the reinvention of the American
health care system by driving high quality and preventive
health care services to those who desperately need it, the
action in Washington does not meet the health care
demand.
Continued on page 5
The Mt. Airy Independent
December 24, 2009
Page 5
Letters to the Editor …
Many Fair Ways to Implement
Real Estate Taxation
To the editor:
Brett Mandel, in an opinion piece,
December 17, 2009, asserts
that Philadelphia’s system of real
estate tax assessment has been
“exposed as a fraud and a sham.” He
is right. The Board of Revision of Taxes
has long operated as a self-serving
principality, favoring some well-connected individuals at the expense
of others. There is an abundance of
properties in Philadelphia that are
similar in character and on the same
block, let alone different neighborhoods, with radically differing
assessments. The BRT whines that they cannot
change the assessment method
because City Council controls the
tax rates; City Council whines that
they cannot change the tax rates
because the BRT controls the assessment method. The entire matter
could be easily resolved by a few
strokes of a legislative pen, but that is
not likely to happen soon.
There are many fair and efficient
ways to implement real estate taxation. One method is Land Value
Taxation which has been successful
where tried but has a history of being
repealed, likely because it makes
the unsavory “dilapidation technique” of land speculation a less
profitable business. The Henry George School of
Social Science located at 413 South
10th Street in Philadelphia (215922-4278) offers free scholarly
courses on this matter, and has done
so for many years. Ray Haupt
Mt. Airy
HIV/AIDS Fight Continues
Continued from page 4
Like the massive rebuilding of
Europe after World War II, clearly
there needs to be an international
health care Marshall Plan to combat
the scourge of this disease.
HIV/AIDS awareness, education
and treatment must be everywhere.
Small nations and world powers, talk
shows, newspapers, organizations,
national, state and local governments, grade school, high school,
and college administrators, churches, mosques, synagogues, and many
others, all must engage in the fight to
stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. We
must encourage everyone to speak
up, get informed, and get tested, and
to create the sustainable systems in
their respective communities that
allows for this fight to be impactful
and ongoing.
We must teach that HIV/AIDS is
not only devastating in its own right,
but that it is also a predictor of other
health care and social problems that
may exist in an infected community.
When we fight and win on HIV, we
get a chance to win on so many other
issues that are legacy predators on
communities whose defenses are
weak. By fighting the fight on HIV
on all fronts, we get to fight the fight
for people who are struggling against
poverty, oppression, and lack of education, just to name a few.
For some it may not be sexy to talk
about HIV/AIDS, but for the overwhelming majority of us it is
absolutely necessary to talk about
HIV/AIDS, at all times, and more
importantly, to do something big
about HIV/AIDS, immediately. On
a personal level, if you are going to
have sex, practice it safely, get tested,
and know your status. On a family
and community level, get informed
and talk to one another from a factual basis. On a policy level, let’s get a
strong health care bill passed that
Merck’s Role
GRINCH ‘Top 10’ for 2009
covers the uninsured and provides
high quality preventive health services to people at a cost they can
afford. This would at least give people a chance to opt into high quality
health care, thereby putting them in
a position to defend themselves
against HIV/AIDS and many other
diseases.
After twenty-five years we won’t
stop our efforts. Let’s make it sexy to
not just talk about HIV, and to not
just fight the spread of HIV, but to
win the victory over a disease that is
100 percent preventable. Join us and
get engaged as we fight for the
humanity that we know still exists in
all of us. Join us as we work to end
the unnecessary spread of
HIV/AIDS.
For more information, find us at
www.testtogether.org.
To the editor:
GRINCH (GreenINChestnutHill) has been a group of tree hugging
do-gooders for about a year now. And
we are always looking for foot soldiers
to help further our mission. So when
Professor Fleming of Philadelphia
University sent us one of his brightest
grad students, we gleefully welcomed
her to our weekly meetings.
She wanted to know what we were
all about. We explained how we morphed from the Chestnut Hill
Business
Association
Green
Committee to GRINCH, represented by business people and Chestnut
Hill residents. The mission statement
of GRINCH is to raise awareness of
environmental issues with outreach
programs and green initiatives as outlined
on
our
blog,
GreenInChestnutHill.blogspot.com .
As we began to chronicle our
achievements of the past year I realized we could generate a “top 10” list.
I always wanted to do a top 10 list!
Starting with the most recent and
looking back as 2009 comes to a close.
1 - GRINCH, in partnership with
the Mt Airy Business Association,
will host a tree chipping event on
Sunday, January 11 from 10 a.m. – 4
p.m. Bring your 2009 Christmas tree
to Allen’s Lane Art Center and we
will turn it into mulch! No landfill!
2 - With help from the Jenk’s
Home and School Association,
GRINCH organized a Weird Waste
Day in November. Nearly 10,000
pounds of potentially hazardous
Electronic-waste was collected for
responsible recycling and reusing.
3 - Members of GRINCH toured
the E-force Compliance facility to
ensure that that the E-waste collection is dismantled by a responsible
operation. (see Blog for report on our
field trip)
4 - GRINCH organized two interactive recycling assemblies at the
Jenks School for grades K-8 during
America Recycles week. The kids
loved it!
5 - GRINCH organized student
recycling ambassadors for the Fall for
the Arts Fest with sponsorship from
many of Chestnut Hill’s environmentally conscious businesses. Students
schooled
festival
goers
on
Philadelphia’s single stream recycling
while collecting plastics, glass and aluminum.
6 - GRINCH organized a composting demo for businesses and residents held at Laurel Hill Gardens and
hosted by PhillyCompost.com.
7 - Kim Miller, president of the Mt
Airy Business Association, and
GRINCH organized a trash and
recycling seminar with panelists
Maurice Sampson of Niche Recycling
and City of Philadelphia Recycling
Department.
8 - Kim Miller and GRINCH
organized an Intro to Sustainability
seminar at Flying Fish led by
Professor Rob Fleming.
9 - GRINCH organized a block of
green vendors for the Garden Fest
with signage sponsored by Valley
Green Bank. Our student recycling
ambassadors patrolled the fest, collecting recycling, as well.
10 - GRINCH created a blog for
informative environmental info in
your neighborhood and city. Become
a follower!
And much more is planned for the
New Year. From all of us at
GRINCH, happy holidays!
Amy Edelman
Owner, Night Kitchen Bakery
Founding member, GRINCH
To the editor:
Thank you for Patrick Cobbs’
story on the major new grant
received by the Friends of the
Wissahickon (“Grant Enables FOW
to Step Up Park Work,” December
3). However, the story inadvertently
gives Merck far too much credit.
The story’s lede says “A $780,000
grant from Merck & Co. is, in large
part, to thank for the new effort.”
But Merck isn’t to thank at all. In
the story’s final paragraph, on the
back of the newspaper, it’s revealed
that Merck only paid the money in a
settlement after a series of lethal
chemical
spills
into
the
Wissahickon.
One day, I hope the Wissahickon
will again be a safe place for us all to
swim. But that won’t happen until
we make Merck clean up its act.
Noah T. Winer
Mt. Airy
First Protest
To the editor:
Veronica Sussman wrote [Letters,
issue of December 3] that the protest
[in Germantown] against slavery was
the first white written protest and
that there were many protests by
black slaves and freedmen.
However, the First Protest Against
Slavery, in 1688, came from
Germantowners. It was explicitly
written to address and condemn the
practice by some inhabitants who
were buying, selling and using slaves
in William Penn’s new settlement in
Germantown. In William Penn’s
recruitment for new settlers he promised that there would be no slavery in
his new colony.
Ena V. Lindner Swain
Germantown FRED’S MT. AIRY MOTORS
Mt. Airy’s One-Stop Car Care Center
Quality Service for ALL Cars
Domestic and Foreign
State Inspection • Emissions Inspection
Scheduled Maintenance
Quality Maintenance and Repairs
Our skilled mechanics provide prompt, dependable service
S a lo n
E le v a t io n s
h 52nd St.
1406 Nort
52nd &
(corner of
Master)
Ph
PA
iladelphia,
888
(215) 747-6
215-247-4513
Blow Dry & Curl
$19.99
Cap Weave
$45.00 & up
Sewn in Weave
$65.00 & up
Specializing in Celebrity Lace Weaves
Come & Visit our Eyelash Bar $10
Serving the Community Since 1957
208 E. Mt. Airy Avenue
Philadelphia
Page 6
December 24, 2009
WEEK OF DEC. 24-30
THURSDAY 24
SWING DANCING
Give and Take Juggling Studio,
6122 Greene St. 7-9 p.m. Series on
Lindy, Balboa and Charleston, DJ
dancing to jazz, 9 p.m.-midnight.
$5. Info: 215-668-2227.
FREESTEP DANCE
Commodore Barry Club, 6815
Emlen St. FreeStep Dance Night
at Irish Center. Info: 215-3601850 or www.freestepping.com.
WORD 4 WORD
Art Noir, 7175D Ogontz Ave. Art
Noir hosts “Word 4 Word” open
mic poetry every Thursday
evening. Info: 215-438-5366.
FRIDAY 25
ART + PEACE + PIZZA
Earth Bread + Brewery, 7136
Germantown Ave. Northwest Art
Collective holding holiday show
of 14 artists, “Art + Peace +
Pizza,” all work priced at $199 or
less. Through January 31.
Information: e-mail to [email protected] or visit nacollective.com.
MOVIES AT
VIDEO LIBRARY
Video Library, 7141 Germantown
Ave. Friday-Saturday 8 p.m.,
Sunday 7 p.m. Great movies every
week in the Little Theater at Video
The Mt. Airy Independent
To celebrate how well black and white go together, as perfect
compliments and reflections of one another is the mission of the
photography exhibit set to run January 2-31 at La Colombe Café,
4360 Main Street, Manayunk. Debbie Lerman, a freelance writer
and photographer living in Mt. Airy, presents black and white photographs of black and white friends and family in Mt. Airy and surrounding neighborhoods in what she says are “scenarios aimed
to delight, amuse, and inspire. For me, it’s a way to celebrate my
family and community,” said Lerman. “It’s an ongoing project and
I’d love to hear from anyone in the area who has an idea for a scenario or who would like to participate.” All are invited to the opening on Sunday, January 3rd, 3-6pm at La Colombe. For more
information visit debbielermanphoto.com or email: [email protected]. Left, Amhaad Robinson of Mt. Airy (at left) and
Raz Reed of Manayunk feed each other black and white noodles.
Below, Akayla Robinson and Maya Lerman of Mt. Airy agreed to
be buried in sand and compost for the project.
Library. This week: perhaps
Hollywood’s greatest musical –
“Singin’ in the Rain,” starring
Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor
and Debbie Reynolds in all-time
favorite about switch from silent
movies to talkies. $6 includes popcorn. Info: 215-247-3020 or
www.mtairyvideolibrary.com.
JAZZ AT CUBA
Cuba Restaurant and Gallery,
8609 Germantown Ave. Live
Latin jazz every Friday evening at
Cuba. Info: 215-967-1477.
Stitchers’ Dream
•Husqvarna Viking
Sewing Machine Sales
• Service – All Makes
•Notions & Patterns
• Yarns
• Knitting Machines
Sales & Service
Classes
Mon: 10 AM – 3 PM
Tues & Thurs: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Wed & Fri: 10 AM – 7:30 PM
Sat: 10 AM – 4 PM
Sewing, Knitting,
Crochet.
Kids & Adults.
Day or Evening.
Call for Details.
merry maids
HOME CLEANERS
NO NIGHTWORK • NO WEEKENDS • NO HOLIDAYS
$8.00 per Hour Training Salary
Make Up to $12.00 or More!
After Training
3, 4 or 5 Day Work Week
Must Have Car, Driver’s License & Auto Insurance
Profit on Mileage
Call 215-576-5748
Just Like That
Special
Micros
$145 w/hair
2-Strand Twist
$125 w/hair
Individuals
Starting at
$100 w/hair
French Braid
Starting at $20
Silky Locks
Corn Rows
$10 Off w/ This Ad
Best of the Northwest
2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
10% Off
with AD
• Low Prices • Herbal Medicine • Senior Citizen Discount
• All Major Insurance Accepted • We Accept Medicaid, Medicare, Part B & D Plans
Ask for Heather
All Styles, Hair Included!
Designer Jewelry, Hats & Bags
Locticion on Staff
Braiders &
Stylists
Needed
Business Hours: Wed - Fri 9 – 6. Sat - Sun 9 - 3
4936 Germantown Ave. (Between Seymour & Logan)
215-848-5954
Free Delivery
215.438.3880 • Fax: 215.438.3883
206-B West Chelten Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19144
Pharmacy Hours: Monday – Friday 10 am to 6 pm • Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
SATURDAY 26
LACE IN TRANSLATION
Philadelphia University, Design
Center, 4200 Henry Ave. Lace in
Translation exhibit features work
of three designers reconsidering
conventional notions of lace.
Hours Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 4
p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Through April 3. Info: 215-9512860
or
www.philau.edu/DesignCenter.
SINGLES SCENE
Unitarian Universalist Church,
6900 Stenton Ave. 7:30 p.m. 12:30 a.m. Weekly program for
mature single adults. Donation
$8. Info: 215-247-2561 (press 7).
SUNDAY 27
KWANZAA AT JOHNSON
HOUSE
Johnson House Historic Site, 6306
Germantown Ave. 2:30-5 p.m.
Annual Kwanzaa activities at historic Johnson House, once a stop
on Underground Railroad. Info:
215-438-1768.
GARDEN RAILWAY
Morris
Arboretum,
100
Northwestern Ave., Chestnut Hill.
Morris Arboretum’s 9th annual
Garden Railway, with quarter mile
of track, fifteen lines, made of all
natural materials. Free with regular admission: $14 adults, $12 for
seniors, students and ages 13-18,
$7 for children under age 3 and
members. Through January 3.
Info: 215-247-5777.
SUNDAY EVE JAM
LaRose Catering/Social Club,
5531 Germantown Ave. 7-11 p.m.
Sunday open jam session for all
instrumental musicians, singers,
spoken word, jazz poets. House
band provided by Rob Henderson
and HFactor features different
bassist and pianist each week. $5.
Continued on page 7
The Mt. Airy Independent
December 24, 2009
World Class Jazz
Continued from page 6
Info: 267-231-6779.
MONDAY 28
MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO
Video Library, 7141 Germantown
Ave. Monday-Wednesday, 2 p.m.
Little Theater. Award-winning
Japanese animator Miyazaki
delights all ages with film
described by Roger Ebert as “a
children’s film made for the world
we should live in, rather than the
one we occupy … a world where
if you met a strange towering creature in the forest, you curl up on its
tummy and take a nap.” $6
includes popcorn. Info: 215-2473020
or
www.mtairyvideolibrary.com.
SENIOR ACTIVITIES
Chestnut Hill Center for
Enrichment, 8431 Germantown
Ave. CHAC has numerous programs each day for seniors,
including exercise, crafts, games,
workshops, discussions, more.
Info: 215-248-0180, e-mail to
[email protected].
BLUE MONDAY
LaRose Catering/Social Club,
5531 Germantown Ave. 6-9 p.m.
Jazz for everyone each Monday
with Tony Williams Quartet. $8.
Info: 215-248-1718.
PAPER WORKS!
City Hall, Northeast corner, second and fourth floors. “Paper
Works!” exhibit features work of
20 area artists, including Mt. Airy
native Lesley Haas, working in
medium of paper. Monday-Friday,
8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free.
Work and Play in Germantown,”
featuring historic toys, sleds,
clothing and other items used here
for winter work and play. Through
December. Tuesdays 9 a.m. – 1
p.m., Thursdays 1-5 p.m. Info:
215-844-1683.
TABLE TENNIS
Earth Bread + Brewery, 7136
Germantown Ave. 9 p.m. – midnight. Ping-Pong Night every
Tuesday at Earth Bread. Info: 215242-6666.
ACUPUNCTURE CIRCLE
Springboard
Studio,
530
Carpenter
Lane.
6-7:30
p.m. Acupuncture Wellness Circle
small group session offers relaxed,
comfortable space to release
stress. $30/person, $75 for 3.
Reservations: 215-844-7675.
• • • • •
Sharpest Cuts Around
Men & Children
Walk-Ins Welcome
TUESDAY 29
WINTER WONDERLAND
Germantown Historical Society,
5501 Germantown Ave. Special
exhibit “Winter Wonderland:
9 AM - 9 PM
215-438-8917
5104 Germantown Avenue
TRANSMISSION SPECIALIST
A & A TRANSMISSION
CENTER, INC
6113 Germantown Avenue
Transmission Check Free
SPECIAL: IS YOUR TRANSMISSION SLIPPING?
ASK FOR ARTHUR
Clean or Replace Solenoid
TRANSMISSION
REBUILT
As LOW AS $495.00
DAY: (215) 842-0284
Walt’s Bike Shop
Barber Shop
Senior Citizen Special
$10.00
BODY CHALLENGE
Fitness Center
Home of the $5 Workout
• Any Make • Any Model • • Automatic or Standard
No Job Too Small or Too Large
Guaranteed Speedy Quality
All Work Guaranteed
One Day Service
Page 7
Holiday Special
10% Off New Bike.
We Sell All Bike Parts.
Mon. Tues. Thurs. Fri. Sat: 5 AM – 5 PM
Wed. Close at 2 PM
5128 Germantown Avenue. 215-849-4984
No Contracts
1 Day Pass – $5
Winter Special
1 Month – $25
2 Months – $45
3 Months – $60
Save Your Life
Free Parking • Bus Routes 23, C, R,
Broad St. Subway
215-457-8418
1600 W. Hunting Park Ave. 2nd Floor
Open Mon - Wed 6 - 10
Thurs & Fri 6-9 • Sat & Sun 6-5
www.bodychallengefitnesscenter.com
Guitarist Jim Dragoni has been
performing and organizing world
class concerts in Northwest
Philadelphia for several years
now, with two notable performances on the horizon in the next
several weeks.
After four successful shows in
November with the great songwriter and pianist Mose Allison,
Dragoni will be holding court as a
solo artist on New Year’s Eve at
Roller’s Flying Fish, 8142
Germantown Avenue, 9 p.m. to
midnight, performing his unique
eclectic interpretations of jazz,
blues and folk music on both
acoustic and electric guitars and
vocals. There is a dinner package
on offer as well.
And on January 22 and 23 he
will be partnering with the great
innovator Larry Coryell, famous
for helping to shape the concept of
how the modern guitar is played.
A master class is being organized
on January 24.
Dragoni is a well-known
teacher in the region, having studied with the late Dennis Sandole,
mentor to both John Coltrane and
Pat Martino. Dragoni has worked
closely with saxophonist Odean
Pope, leader of the Saxophone
Choir, and member of Max
Roach’s band for 25 years.
Roller’s Flying Fish is emerging
as a noteworthy music venue as a
result of the developing partnership between Dragoni and Paul
Roller. Roller has been an amateur guitarist and music lover for
several decades and the two men
have found common ground and
interests in hosting world-class
events in an intimate setting.
“Music as it should be heard” is
how Roller describes it. “Paul
Roller is one of the more enlightened folks I’ve worked with over
the past two decades” Dragoni
said. “He has high standards, and
while he is an excellent businessman, he is not mercenary in his
attitude toward the artists he
hosts; he has the utmost respect
and consideration for the artists
and the audience as well—a rare
gem in this business”.
For more information, reservations and tickets, call 215-2470707 or visit emusictime.com.
BaSement PluS Co.
215.233.4598
One Company with Many Pluses ... Show
We fix basement moisture problems This
Ad
we RENOVATE. . .
❏ Basement Plus will add value to your home
and
❏ drywall, drop ceilings, closets, heater enclosures installed
SAVE
❏ We will redesign your basement
❏ Pergo flooring, carpeting, ceramic tile, we can do!
$100
Plus
❏
❏
❏
❏
❏
neW BAthrooM in your basement, we do that too!
ShoWer, toIlet, And SInk In one Week!
We handle all PluMBIng needs for your basement
We handle all eleCtrICAl needs for your basement
Add lighting, outlets and switches... yeS, we do that too!
Plus
we WATERPROOF. . .
Basement Plus will get your basement dry and odor free
Waterproof and repair old crumbling walls and floor
Sump pumps and French drains installed
Install new windows, doors, locks and steps
We dig out basements to add headroom
Clean paint and seal unsightly pipes and flooring
We elIMInAte MoldS And MIldeWS
Build and install 100% steel weather-tight
BulkheAd exterIor doorS
❏ Build and install 100% custom-made
WIndoW Well CoverS to MAtCh your hoMe
❏
❏
❏
❏
❏
❏
❏
❏
Window
Well Cover
Glass Block
Windows
Basement Plus
will redesign your basement …
SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
References • Insured • Warranty • And a Great Job
FREE ESTIMATES and PROFESSIONAL
BASEMENT DESIGN CONSULTATIONS
www.basementplus.com
Bulk Head
Doors
Page 8
December 24, 2009
Diabetes Education Set at CIP
Center in the Park (CIP), 5818 Germantown Avenue in Vernon
Park, will present a diabetes self-management program in January and
February. Learn how to balance and manage diabetes, and how to read
labels and plan meals.
Classes met Mondays on January 4, 11 and 25, and February 1, 8,
and 22 in the Wellness Suite at CIP.
To register call Delores Palmer at 215-849-5100, ext. 305, or
Dianne B. Tucker at 215-849-7722, ext. 233.
Keep Up with Us on the Web. germantownnewspapers.com
Semi-Annual Bra and Girdle
SALE
Need a Bra? Hard to Fit?
WE ARE IT!
SAVE up to $25
per garment (exclusions apply)
T he Or
iginal
Corset Shoppe
Bras, Girdles & Shapewear
Expert Mastectomy Fitters
-Since 1943Baederwood Shopping Center
Jenkintown, PA 19046
215-885-BRAS (2727)
www.Mi-Ladycorset.com
The Mt. Airy Independent
Police Briefs in Mt. Airy
If you have been the victim of a
crime and would like information
or services, call Northwest Victim
Services, 6301 Germantown
Avenue, at 215-438-4410. Their
services are free.
West Mt. Airy Neighbors
requests that all crimes committed in Mt. Airy be reported to
WMAN at 215-438-6022.
The following crimes were
reported in Mt. Airy between
December 14-20, 2009.
THEFT FROM AUTO,
ATTEMPTED AUTO THEFT
December 15: unit block E. Hortter
St. – 2008 Chevrolet entered, silver
handgun taken.
STOLEN AUTO
December 17: Chew Ave. and
Montana St. – 1996 white Chrysler
Accord taken.
BURGLARY
December 18: 900 block E. Upsal
St. – rear window found open at
residence, WII game system and
game, 18” TV taken.
THEFT
December 14: 200 block E. Hortter
St. – Dell laptop missing from residence.
December 15: 6800 block
Germantown Ave. – complainant
stated that offender ordered food,
then paid for it with $100 bill, then
said he had been given wrong
amount of change. Offender
grabbed $100 bill and ran from
store.
December 17: 6300 block Stenton
Ave. – wallet, rings, flash drives
missing from location.
December 17: 7100 block
Germantown Ave. – two rings with
diamonds missing from location.
December 18: 7100 block
Germantown Ave., - while complainant helping female with store
item, male went around counter,
took wallets, credit cards, ID, gift
cards.
December 19: 7400 block Stenton
Ave. – while business owner took
order over phone, offender already
in shop took iPhone, then fled on
foot.
ROBBERY
December 14: Ardleigh and Upsal
sts., 3 p.m. – while walking to bus
stop complainant approached by
three ofenders who demanded contents of his pockets. One slapped
complainant, took his cellphone.
Offenders ran north on Ardleigh St.
December 15: Greene and
Johnsons sts., 11:45 p.m. – complainant approached by offender
who made threats, demanded
money. Complainant said she had
only enough money tog et home on,
would not give it up. Offender fled
south on Greene St., nothing taken.
A Family Tradition of Excellence
Since 1937
AL JEFFERSON
215-849-4343
December 16: 300 block Vernon
Rd., midnight – complainant
robbed at gunpoint by offender in
black jacket with black and white
scarf over face. Taken was purse,
credit cards, ID, cash.
December 16: Germantown Ave.
and Nippon St., 12:05 a.m. – complainant and friend accosted at gunpoint by offender. Taken were
purse, credit cards, keys, cellphone.
Offender fled west on Nippon St.
Complainant suffered facial, neck,
and head injuries, taken to hospital.
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
December 15: 400 block Vernon
Rd., 5 p.m. – complainant alleged
that offender came to his house,
threatened him at gunpoint.
December 16: 6300 block Chew
Ave., 4:30 p.m. Complainant and
offender allegedly involved in prior
altercation. Offender allegedly
returned with knife and allegedly
made slashing motions to complainant. Complainant tacked
offender, held him until police
arrived. Suspect arrested.
December 17: Chew Ave. and PhilEllena St. , 5:45 a.m. – police
responded to report of shooting,
found male shot twice in back and
chest. Victim taken to hospital.
Monthly townwatch meetings are
held at the 14th Police District, 27
West Haines Street, at 7 p.m.
BRICK &
stone
poIntIng
Alfred Jefferson is the number one contractor for the tri-state area. If you need
complete construction services for your home or business, then he is your go-to
guy!
Jefferson is the owner of Al Jefferson Brick & Stone Pointing, a family trade since
1937. His late father, Al Jefferson, Sr., initially taught him the business and the art
of brick and stone pointing and also wood graining, which is a unique technique of
transforming any door (wood or metal) into a beautiful work of art with the appearance of a wood-grained effect that is all done by hand. You have to see it to believe
it!
Neighbors in Mt. Airy thank him for giving their neighborhood a beautiful face lift
and great curb appeal! If you ride through the streets of Mt. Airy, Germantown or
West Oak Lane, you are sure to see his famous brick and stone pointing. His signs
are seen all over Mt. Airy, Germantown, West Oak Lane and South Philadelphia.
For more information, call 215-849-4343 and get a free estimate. You will be so glad
you made the call.
• Steps
• Patios
• Ext. & Int. Painting
• Concrete Walks
Also Custom Door Graining
• Rough Cast Cellar Walls
• Glass Block Windows
The Mt. Airy Independent
December 24, 2009
Page 9
Holiday Shopping and Entertaining 2009
CIP Members Aid Homebound
Members of Center in the Park’s weekly Men’s Gathering, with facilitator Mike Somerville, meet to deliver food
baskets they assembled to homebound elders in Germantown.
To give: to make or perform
an action that affects another.
Center in the Park’s (CIP) programs and services are directly
affected by the generosity of
those willing to give. Each donation and contribution is appreciated and used to the benefit of the
Center’s participants and the
broader older adult community
particularly in Germantown and
Northwest Philadelphia.
The holidays can be lonely for
older adults who may be without
family and friends to share in the
joy of the season. A modest gift
can bring joy to people who may
be isolated or lonely.
Thanks to the Northwest community’s overwhelming response
to Center in the Park’s annual
request for gifts for the homebound elderly, more than the 60
persons who received holiday
gifts last year will receive gifts
this year, delivered by Center in
the Park social workers. Center
in the Park members and staff
generously donated gifts including: toiletries, beauty products,
blankets, slippers, socks and
other warm and thoughtful gifts!
Additionally, this year, the
members of CIP’s Men’s
Gathering delivered food baskets
to homebound elders. The men
contributed funds, shopped,
assembled and delivered the baskets which were filled with goodies – from soup to nuts – for holiday dinner.
Persons wishing to make contributions in support of emergency assistance for the homebound elderly, including help
A Germantown resident, who prefers not to be identified, has created a
uniquely-decorated tree in his living room. He was in the antiques business for decades and in the process began collecting classic pre-World
War II tree ornaments from overseas, principally from Germany, Poland
and Czechoslovakia. The hundreds of ornaments cover the 8-foot-tall
tree which is illuminated the old-fashioned way by more than 30 candles. The ornaments, some of which are quite rare, are heavy by modern standards – all are made of glass that was hand-blown into wooden molds. In addition to traditional Christmas motifs they include fruits
and vegetables and musical instruments.
with heating oil or other energy
assistance, are encouraged to call
Melissa Cohen at 215-849-5100
for more information.
one of the great innovators
of the modern guitar
Larry Coryell with Jim Dragoni
at Rollers’ Flying Fish
Jan 22 & 23, 2010 – 8 & 10 pM
Master Class: Jan. 24 • 3 pM
tickets: emusictime.com
GROBEN'S HOLIDAY TRAYS
TRAY 1
50 LARGE COOKED & CLEANED SHRIMP
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS WITH
COCKTAIL SAUCE
$49.95
TRAY 1A
$64.95
50 LARGE COOKED & CLEANED WILD SHRIMP, PLUS
A CONTAINER OF CRAB CLAWS
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS WITH
COCKTAIL SAUCE
TRAY 2
$79.95
100 LARGE COOKED AND CLEANED WILD SHRIMP,
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS
WITH COCKTAIL SAUCE
TRAY 2A
$94.95
100 LARGE COOKED AND CLEANED WILD SHRIMP,
PLUS A CONTAINER OF CRAB CLAWS
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS
WITH COCKTAIL SAUCE
TRAY 3
$84.95
50 JUMBO COOKED & CLEANED WILD SHRIMP
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS
WITH COCKTAIL SAUCE
TRAY 3A
$99.95
50 JUMBO COOKED & CLEANED WILD SHRIMP,
PLUS A CONTAINER OF CRAB CLAWS
DISPLAYED ON A BED OF GREENS
WITH COCKTAIL SAUCE
TRAYS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
• POACHED SALMON & SMOKED FISH
• ORDER A FRIED CAJUN TURKEY BREAST
FOR THE HOLIDAYS
(average weight 12-14 lb. before cooking)
Grobens • 6833 Germantown Avenue
Phone: 215-843-4717, Fax: 215-843-5771
Page 10
December 24, 2009
The Mt. Airy Independent
Holiday Shopping and Entertaining 2009
Kwanzaa at Johnson House
Celebrate Kwanzaa at the
Johnson House Historic Site,
6306 Germantown Avenue, on
Sunday, December 27 from
2:30-5 p.m. It will feature
African drumming, storytelling,
and kid-focused arts and crafts
activities.
The PASEP Drumming and
Percussion Ensemble of Temple
University will drum during
this free educational event. A
storyteller will read and tell stories to children, accompanied
by drums. Little listeners will
be able to enjoy an afternoon of
entertainment and light snacks.
The overall theme of this
event is to assist in guiding our
youth to adopt the principles of
Children from Germantown High Bright Futures display their holiday creations made at Wyck.
Festive holiday arrangements created by
preschoolers to high schoolers will decorate tables,
window sills, and mantles throughout Germantown
this holiday season. More than 250 children who participate in Wyck’s Outdoor Education Program came
to Wyck last week to assemble greens grown at
Wyck, 6026 Germantown Avenue, including
American Holly, Boxwood, and Cedar, into lush
arrangements for their families.
Each week students from Germantown Head Start,
Germantown High Bright Futures, Germantown
High School, and Fulton Elementary School walk to
Wyck, a National Historic Landmark house and garden, where they receive standards-based environment and nature lessons from Wyck’s Education
Program Coordinator, Lori Litchman. Litchman also
visits Head Start students at the Mastery
Charter/Pickett Campus each week.
Wyck’s Outdoor Education program features
hands-on activities that help students improve their
literacy and observation skills. Children discover the
farm within the city at Wyck’s 2.5 acre site which
features a Home Farm - a large chemical-free production garden; icehouse, smokehouse, and coach
house; and historic rose garden.
Wyck’s Outdoor Education
programming
includes “From Farm to Food,” where children
receive a basic introduction to where our food comes
from on Wyck’s working Home Farm; and
“Chickens and Birds,” where students meet Wyck’s
flock of eleven Golden Buff laying chickens and
learn firsthand about bird structure and parts. Other
lessons include “Bugs, Bees and Worms,”
“Pollination and Bees,” with visits to Wyck’s working hives, and “Nutrition and Healthy Eating.”
Children in the program also participate in all aspects
of the Home Farm, from planting seeds, to weeding,
to composting.
For more information about Wyck and its Outdoor
Education Program, please contact Lori Litchman,
Education Program coordinator, at 215-848-1690 or
e-mail to [email protected] .
Happy Holidays!
All You Can Eat Buffet
NEW
Dinner Buffet
Cheltenham Plaza
8162 Ogontz Ave.
Wyncote
215-886-6696
Christmas Tree Recycling
The Mt. Airy Business
Association, along with their partners GRINCH (Green in Chestnut
Hill) and the Allens Lane Art
Center sponsor, will hold a
Christmas tree recycling event on
Sunday, January 10, 10 a.m. - 4
p.m., at Allens Lane Art Center,
601 West Allens Lane
Trees will be chipped into a pile
which will then be available in the
spring as free mulch. Why?
Because it’s the right thing to do.
Trees are just like any other trash
that gets sent to landfills and
becomes pollution. By chipping
Arden Theatre Company presents the perfect theatrical treat for the
whole family this holiday season: Peter Pan, a brand-new version of
J.M. Barrie’s classic tale, adapted for the stage by Douglas Irvine, from
the books by J.M. Barrie.
Arden Children’s Theatre brand-new version of Peter Pan celebrates
the wonder of storytelling and the power of make-believe. It is recommended for families with children ages five and older.
Performances are Saturday, December 26 at noon, 4 and 7 p.m.;
Sunday, December 27 at noon and 4 p.m.; Tuesday, December 29 and
Wednesday, December 30 at noon and 4 p.m.; Thursday, December 31
at noon, Friday, January 1 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, January 2 and Sunday ,
January 3 at noon and 4 p.m. Tickets are: children $16-$18,teens $20$22, adults $30-$32. Order by calling 215-922-1122 or online at
www.ardentheatre.org. Arden Theatre Company is located at 40 N. 2nd
Street.
Geechee Girl Rice Café
Zagat Rated.
Now Accepting Reservations
for New Year’s Eve.
The Solution to All Your Catering Needs.
$10
$559
Mon thru Sat
*Includes Crab Legs
No Coupon Required
Mon - Sat: L 11:30 - 3:30
D 3:30 - 9:30 M-Thur
D 3:30 -10:30 Fri-Sat
Sun All Day - Dinner
the trees and re-using the mulch,
you are helping to save our precious planet.
We are asking a $5 donation to
help cover our costs.
C Kim Miller, executive director of the Mt. Airy Business
Association, at 215-242-0777 or
[email protected] if you have
any questions or if you would
like to volunteer to help that day.
The Mt. Airy Business
Association is committed to sustainability and offers community
programs to help create and promote a more sustainable Mt. Airy.
‘Peter Pan’ at Arden
Every Day
99
Lunch Buffet
Kwanzaa, in order for them to
live a life with a positive purpose (Nia).
The Johnson House Historic
Site, Inc. is a National Historic
Landmark and treasure. In addition, the Johnson House is a
leading educational site providing experiential learning opportunities for understanding the
Underground Railroad and the
struggle against slavery. The
authenticity of this historic
building and surrounding
grounds provide rich encounters with history and evidence
of the past in a tangible way.
For more information about
the event call 215-438-1768 or
215-438-4550.
6825 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, Pa
215-843-8113
www.geecheegirl.com
Hours:
Tu. - Th. - 5:30 - 9:00pm Fri. Sa. - 5:30 - 10:00pm
Su. Brunch - 11:00 - 2:30pm Su. Dinner - 5:30 - 9:00pm
• BYOB • Exotic • Savory • Gourmet • Delicious
The Mt. Airy Independent
December 24, 2009
Page 11
Education 2009
GSFS Collects Toys for Shelter Kids
Students, teachers, and parents
at Greene Street Friends School
worked together to donate more
than 200 toys to the children
residing with their mothers at
Women Against Abuse (WAA),
an emergency shelter in
Philadelphia for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
The shelter for battered women
and their children houses approximately 60 children at any one
time. In these difficult economic
times, the kids at the shelter have
been affected harder than most,
fleeing their homes for a safe
haven, often with nothing more
than the clothes on their backs.
Last year Greene Street Friends
School’s Parents Association successfully coordinated the school’s
first toy drive for WAA. This
year’s parent team, Marcy Gialdo,
Stacey Ferraro, and Melissa
Rooney, wanted to find a way to
get Greene Street’s children more
involved in the spirit of giving in
what can often feel like a consumer driven holiday season.
Marcy Gialdo, parent of
Kindergartner, Olivia Gialdo,
stated, “We wanted to connect
the students to this year’s holiday
drive by giving them a role in the
process. They may not be the
ones who actually bought the
presents, but they can still feel
like they were helping by wrapping a gift or making a greeting
card. It’s important for children
Germantown Friends School
seniors taking United States
History with Jeremy Ross were
treated to a special guest teacher
on December 14: former
Pennsylvania Governor Dick
Thornburgh. The former governor, who is the grandfather of
GFS senior Alice Thornburgh of
Chestnut Hill, was invited by
Ross to lead his classes for a day.
After summarizing his back-
Senior Davide Horn of Mt. Airy
asked the former governor to consider how important mass transit
is today. Thornburgh acknowledged that it has always been the
stepchild in the transportation
industry. But he believes in it so
much that he took the bus to work
as governor in Harrisburg, and
takes the bus now in Washington
DC where he serves as counsel to
a law firm.
Greene Street Friends School second grade teacher Katie Portela (at
right) and her second graders collected and wrapped presents for a local
shelter. The event was coordinated by the school’s Parents Association
and collected more than 200 toys.
to realize the impact that each
person can have, no matter how
young.”
This year, second grade teacher
Katie Portela and fifth grade
teacher Beth Duffy offered their
classrooms as drop off sites.
Second graders and fifth graders
created holiday cards and worked
together to wrap the gifts. With
the help of sixth grade teacher
Kiri Harris, TORCH, the Middle
School student government team,
promoted the event, decorated the
drop off boxes and wrapped gifts.
Second grade student Anne
Shipley enjoyed wrapping the
gifts along with her classmates.
She noted, “I think it was important because if we did not do it,
they [the children at the shelter]
would have been sad and bored,
especially the younger kids, and it
is hard to be poor when you are a
younger kid.”
The Parents Association’s
Holiday Giving team hopes to not
only turn this toy drive into an
annual event but to expand the
project into a year-long giving
program with several components, turning the traditional season of giving into year-long seasons of giving.
Graduate! Philadelphia Opens Germantown Site
Ongoing demand from area residents interested in resuming their
college studies has prompted
Graduate! Philadelphia to expand
its services to six satellite locations throughout the city.
Since Graduate! Philadelphia
rolled out its first-of-its-kind college access and success services
for adults at its flagship Center in
the Gallery Mall in 2008, more
than 460 adult learners have reenrolled in college, and 10 have
already graduated with their
degrees. Another 1,000 people
are in the center’s pipeline
preparing to enroll in college.
In an effort to serve more people, Graduate! has expanded services at four CareerLink Centers in
Center City, North Philadelphia,
Northeast Philadelphia and
Germantown. It also provides its
signature college advising services at CORA Services’ Neumann
Center in Kensington, and at
Catholic
Social
Services’
Northeast Family Service Center.
In
2008,
Graduate!
Philadelphia began offering
Teacher for a Day at GFS
adults its innovative College
Access and Success services,
which guide prospective adult
returning students from exploration of opportunities to graduation with a two or four year college degree.
“The new locations are a great
opportunity for individuals to
access ‘one-stop shopping’ for
college right in their neighborhood. You can talk with representatives of 15 different colleges, file for financial aid, get
advice about next steps, make a
plan, all not far from where you
live or work,” said Hadass
Sheffer, executive director of
Graduate! Philadelphia. “We’re
delighted so many Comebackers
have chosen to return to college
and complete their degrees.”
In Germantown, the Graduate!
Philadelphia staff is at PA
CareerLink
Philadelphia
Northwest, 235 West Chelten
Avenue. Please call 215-5741341, option 2, for scheduled
days and times.
The
main
Graduate!
Philadelphia office is at 9th and
Market streets (enter at 9th Street,
next to the Dollar Store), phone
215-574-1341,
e-mail
[email protected]
Graduate! Philadelphia is an
initiative of the Philadelphia
Workforce Investment Board and
the United Way of Southeastern
Pennsylvania. For information
visit GraduatePhiladelphia.org.
GFS American history teacher Jeremy Ross (left) welcomed former
Governor Dick Thornburgh to his 12th grade classes recently.
ground and preparation for public
service – not the career in sports
writing that he had envisioned for
himself in high school – he took
questions from students.
Thornburgh was asked to
describe the accident at the Three
Mile Island nuclear plant that
occurred “on March 28, 1979,
when I had been in office for 72
days.” He believes that his background as a prosecutor helped him
dig for facts about the situation
and the possibility of evacuation.
Asked by Jay Pabarue of Mt. Airy
whether he ever needed to reassure the public without having all
the facts, Thornburgh replied,
“That happened all the time. But
people are looking to you for
leadership,” making it crucial to
pursue the truth.
HOPE Charter High School
9th through 12th grades
• A tuition-free high school in West Oak Lane
• Student enrollment from all areas Philadelphia
• For the youth who needs extra help & small classes
• For information, 215-849-2112 ext 5112
• Or email [email protected]
HOPE CS is designed to give the underachieving high school student new
hope for a bright educational future and a career
We are accepting applications for the school year 2010-11
In response to a steady stream
of
students’
questions,
Thornburgh addressed the goals
he set before becoming governor,
and the achievements he made;
his role as undersecretary general
of the United Nations; handling
state budget issues; and his experience as U.S. Attorney General.
Creating jobs for economic
growth would be his highest priority if he were serving as governor today. His insights allowed
GFS students to consider making
a difference through public service in the very near future.
Page 12
December 24, 2009
Faith & the Community
The Mt. Airy Independent
In the Home &
Neighborhood
Program on Justice and Education in /Haiti
“Literacy
for
Liberation:
Promoting Education and Ending
Child Slavery in Haiti,” presented
by Beyond Borders and featuring
Dr. Anthony Campolo, will be held
Saturday, January 9, at the Church
of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000
St. Martin’s Lane, Chestnut Hill.
The free program to promote justice and education in Haiti will start
at 7 p.m., and will be followed by
an open reception.
The featured speaker will be
Tony Campolo, a professor and
pastor who has organized and supported a variety of initiatives to foster social justice in Haiti and
around the world. The Haitian
youth choir of the Eglise
Evangelique Baptiste Haitienne
will provide music.
In Haiti, where 90 percent of
families live on less than $2 a day,
it is almost impossible for children
to get a good education. For the
poorest children it is very difficult
to get any education at all. Only
about half of Haiti’s children ever
attend school. Most of those who
do attend never graduate from pri-
mary school; and only 38 of every
1,000 students complete high
school.
More than half of Haiti’s adult
population is illiterate, a major barrier to economic progress for
Haitians. In addition, an estimated
300,000 Haitian children live apart
from their parents in unpaid
domestic servitude. The treatment
of these children varies, but many
endure conditions that human
rights organizations classify as
modern slavery.
Since its founding in 1993,
Beyond Borders has been working
in Haiti to support the efforts of
Haitian communities to develop
sustainable solutions to their problems. Through its Child Literacy
Program, Beyond Borders provides
to some of Haiti’s most vulnerable
children a solid basic education
designed to help them escape
poverty and reduce the chances of
their being sent into servitude.
Beyond Borders is also working to
overcome adult illiteracy in Haiti
by assisting local communities and
churches to establish and run liter-
Watch Night at Janes
What are you doing New Year’s Eve? Want to make your new year
truly new? Join Janes Memorial United Methodist Church, 47 East
Haines Street, for our annual Watch Night Service. Be here at 10:30
p.m. New Year’s Eve. Hear an inspiring message from our pastor, Rev.
Dr. Andrew L. Foster 3rd, and then let’s pray our way into 2010. Happy
New Year from Janes!
For information call the church at 215-844-9564 or e-mail to
[email protected].
acy centers for adults and children
too old to enroll in traditional
schools.
In coordination with its partners
in Haiti, Beyond Borders has nurtured a small but growing movement of concerned citizens, organizations, churches, and survivors of
child servitude, who are working
together to protect Haiti’s children,
reunite those in servitude with their
parents, and create systems that
allow parents to care for their children. The event is free and includes
a free-will offering.
For more information, call 610277-5045
or
visit
www.BeyondBorders.net.
The Episcopal Church of the
Annunciation, located at the corner
of Lincoln Drive and Carpenter
Lane, has recently begun a weekly
food cupboard for the purpose of
serving those in our community who
are in need. We have partnered with
a national organization called
SHARE and are looking to grow as
a local neighborhood service. Since
opening the cupboard, we’ve discovered a tremendous demand for
food and we are struggling to keep
up with the needs of the many people who’ve come by.
In light of this, we are looking for
local businesses in the food industry
who would be interested in partnering with us by helping our supply
keep up with the demand. If your
business is interested, please contact
Yvonne Lee at 215-301-0069.
Under the umbrella of the Northwest Philadelphia Greening Initiative and
our partners at OARC (Ogontz Avenue Revitalization Corporation), Mt.
Airy, USA was once again eligible to receive free street trees in 2009.
The program included installation and all necessary approvals from the
city and the Fairmount Park Commission. “We anticipated having 75
trees planted in our neighborhood,” MAUSA said. “However, we actually received well over 100 trees.” Pictured is Mt. Airy resident Carol Mack
standing next to a new tree on Westview Street. If you are interested in
street trees for your block, please contact Cynthia Bradley, Mt. Airy
USA’s community organizer, at 215-844-6021. Ext. 214.
Learn How to Weatherize
Your Home at CIP
Is your home drafty? Is your heating bill out of control?
Weatherization workshops will be presented by the Neighborhood
Energy Center at Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Avenue, on
January 8 and February 19 at 2 p.m. Trainers will demonstrate installation of weatherization materials, discuss rising energy costs, provide information for conservation and assistance programs, and
ways to get tax credits for improvements. Weatherization materials
will be provided free to all eligible participants.
For information call 215-849-5100 or visit www.centerinthepark.org.
Germantown
DUBLIN
FUNERAL SERVICE, INC.
House for Rent
Tulpehocken & Belfield
Fully Remodeled.
3 Bedrooms - 1 Bath
$700 + Utilities
215-849-4984
• Prearrangement Planning
• Monuments
• Cremation
• Traditional Services
• Memorial Services
Marcell D. Dublin, FD, Supervisor
www.dublinfuneralserviceinc.com
“A Noble Level of Funeral Care.”
Please Visit Us at Our New Location
5800 North 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120 • Ph 215-927-2000 • Fax 215-927-1153
Serving Pennsylvania and Delaware
Dealership Level Car Service
at Competitive Pricing
Foreign &
Domestic Autos
Christmas Eve Service
Thursday, December 24
10:30 PM
11:00 PM
35 W Chelten Avenue
Philadelphia PA
Nativity Concert
Candlelight Service
of Lessons and Carols
215-843-8811
www.fpcgermantown.org
Mt. Airy
Off Lincoln Drive
Near Public Transit
West Johnson Garage
86 W. Johnson St.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
215-438-4330
The Mt. Airy Independent
Zoning Hearings
The following hearings will be
held at the Zoning Board of
Adjustments, 1515 Arch Street,
on the 18th floor. All information
is according to the Community
Alerting Service of the Housing
Association of Delaware Valley.
Tuesday, January 5, 9:30 a.m. –
8400 Germantown Ave., one zoning permit, one use permit, one
certification. Permit for the creation of three tenant spaces with a
retail clothing store in space A,
vacant space B, and retail clothing
in space C; for the conversion of
an accessory parking lot to a public parking lot with 85 spaces,
including four reserved for accessibility and 15 compact spaces;
and for the legalization of an
existing one-story structure for
use as a guard shack.
Wednesday, January 6, 4 p.m. –
7700 Crittenden St., three zoning
permits. Permit for the erection of
a 90’ high monopole tower with
six panel antennas, six equipment
cabinets at grade and an 8’ high
fence, all for use as a wireless
services facility on the same lot
with an existing shopping center.
Wednesday, January 6, 5 p.m. 13 Wyneva St., one use permit.
Permit for the legalization of a
three-family dwelling.
December 24, 2009
Business Services Directory
Do You Have a Listing
for the Business Service Directory?
Call Rachel to Add Yours! 215.438.4000
tes
ima
st
eE
Fre
BAILEY CONSTRUCTION
Formerly Honest Roofing
We Will Beat Any Written Estimate
All Types of Roofing • Specializing in Rubber Roofs
215-335-1448
or
215-535-6990
Lic & Insured - Lic #000142
BERNIE
• Roofing
• Cement
• Plastering
• Electric
• Wallpaper
Reasonable Prices • (215) 748-6497
Lic. #G-68410
Financing Available • Free Estimates • Fully Insured
With Coupon
New Roof
All Types of Roofing
Siding • Windows • Emergency Repairs
Up to 400 Sq. Ft.
Ask About Our
15 Year Guarantee
as low as
$490
Hot Coats
Family Owned and Operated
for Over 44 Years
215.332.6600
as low as
•
•
•
•
•
Concrete & Cement Of All Kinds
Basement Waterproofing
Garage & Home Renovations
Power Washing
Handyman Jobs
Summer Special
15% OFF
With This Ad
No Job Too Small
Samuel J. BaIleY • GeNeral CoNTraCTor• lIC & INSured
• Painting
Roofing Sale
Small Ad Small Prices
215-495-9336
The Small Job Specialist
Business Website
The City of Philadelphia’s new,
revamped website for businesses
went live in November, the first
phase in the creation of an interactive, online Business Services
Center that will change the way
businesses interact with city government. The new home for business on the City’s website can be
found at www.phila.gov/business.
The first phase is informational
only, gathering together in one
location information that until
now has been housed on several
departmental websites. Here users
will be able to find information
according to the type of business
that they are, and the type of activity that they are engaged in. The
website gives assistance to people
trying to start a business, providing guidance on developing a
business plan, understanding the
City of Philadelphia’s business
regulations, and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to
operate within Philadelphia. It
also contains information on selling goods and services to city
government as well as details of
financing and incentive resources
for which businesses may qualify.
The next phases, to be launched
throughout 2010, will provide a
more interactive, user-specific
experience for businesses. The
City is developing a “decision
wizard” which will guide users
through the business process
according to their specific circumstances and needs.
Page 13
$57
City of Philadelphia Electircal License #000868
aFFORDaBLE ELECtRiCaL SERViCES
Same day Repairs • Installations • Service Upgrades
Heating & Air Conditioning
Repairs
Outlets • switches • Lights
100-200 Amp Circuit Breakers
Air Conditioner Outlets
Appliance Lines
Ceiling Fans
Doorbell Repairs
Dryer Lines
Real Estate Certification
FULLy iNsURED
FLAT RATE Prices Given
BEFORE Work Begins.
NO Hidden Charges
NO Per Hour Charges
Voted
#1 Best
Electrician
AAA & AARP
CiTy & UNiON DisCOUNTs
CHURCH MEMBERs
sENiOR CiTizEN
DisCOUNT
Best of the
Northwest
2004 2006, 2007
No Coupon Needed to Get the Lowest Price!
215-927-1100
Affordable
Electric, Inc.
Prices Quoted Over the Phone
www.affordableelectric.com
We accept
all credit &
debit cards
Quincy Logistics Inc.
Professional Movers
(We move you, not your money)
Celebrating 25 Years of Expert Relocation Services
•Residential •Commercial •Trucking
Licensed and Insured
215-924-9915 • www.QuincyLogistics.com
Best Handyman Service
HSpackle
HPainting
HDrywall
HCeramic
HFloors
Ceilings
tile
HCeiling
Fans
HRepair Work
HCement work
H15 yrs. Exp.
all types of
Electrical Work
FREE
EStimatES
• Trouble Shooting
• 100/200 Amp Upgrades
• Indoor/outdoor Lighting
• 220 Lines / AC Lines
• Doorbells / Ceiling Fans
• Fuse Box Repairs
• Dryer Lines
SEnIoR
CITIzEn
DISCounT
25% OFF WITH THIS Ad.
All Work Guaranteed • Lic. #00793
Serving Mt. Airy,
West Oak Lane
Germantown
Lic & Ins. 057860
215-927-3656
Quality Work at Prices
You Can Live With!
Residential & Commercial
Termite Inspections and Extermination Is Just a Phone Call Away
ENtErprisE ExtErmiNAtiNg
Save 10%
with this
coupon
We Deliver
Do-It-Yourself Supplies
& supply Co.
bird • flEA • sQUirrEl & rOdENt spECiAlists
QUAlifiEd tO mAKE fHA & VA CErtifiCAtiONs
COMPLETE PEST, INSECT & MICE CONTROL
24 HOURS – 7 DAYS A WEEK
PROMPT, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
Call Now
4943 Wayne Avenue
215-849-7070
www.enterprisepest control.com
• Rubber Roofs
• Coatings
• Skylights
• New Shingle
Roofs
Roofing Sale!
Will Not Be
Undersold
2006
• Roof
Certificates
• No Job Too
Small
• Roof Repairs
Senior Citizens & Handicapped Persons Discount
FHA Financing • No Money Down
215-722-7131
Licensed & Insured • *Up to 500 sq. ft.
Page 14
December 24, 2009
The Mt. Airy Independent
Business Services Directory
ELECTRICIAN
SMALL AD
SMALL PRICES
215-925-0606
AFFORDABLE
PAINTING
“Spruce Up for the Holidays”
ANY ROOM
Stairways & Hallways
Repair or Patchwork
Quality Work
at Affordable Prices.
Call 215-927-3656
HeaTING & a.C. rePaIrS
We do IT all!
SENIOR CITIzEN
DISCOUNTS
MARIO BROS.
LICENSED & INSURED #G00848
Do It Right
Clean Out specialist
Also Moving & Hauling
Basement, Garages, Attics
Backyards, Apartments
Fallen Tree Removal
Oil Tank Removal
Free Estimates
Grant to Aid
Maternal Outreach
Picture
Framing
Pre-Owned
or
We Purchase to Suit.
25% Discount with Ad
(267) 816-5268
Call 215-849-9192
Two Guys
Drain & Plumbing
Pickup Truck for Hire
• We install BATHROOMS
• DRAIN CLEANING
• Repair or Replace BROkEN pIpES
We’ll beat anybody’s price
or we’ll take 10% off!
Cell: 215-892-2172
Lic. #0390
Light Moving, Hauling &
Deliveries
Available 7 Days a Week
Reasonable Rates
215-850-4559
215-668-8660
Free Estimates
Fully insured
JOSEpH’S AffORdABLE
Senior
discount
pLUmBINg & HEATINg
Keep Up with Us
on the Web.
germantownnewspapers.com
philadelphia gas Heating
& Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
• 24 Hour Service / 7 Days a Week
• City Violations Corrected
• Hot Water heaters Replaced
• Drain Cleaning Specialist
• New Gas & Oil Heaters Installed
• Certifications
sAlEs
Starting at
$1695
Registered 3rd Generation #3922
Heater sale
$1195
a/c
checkup
$80.00
Call Now 215.456.1300
fAst EmErgENCY sErViCE
OffICE: 215-673-7700 • 215-6041728
CELL: 267-984-3088
$aVe eleCTrIC
lowest Prices • Free estimates
• Trouble Shooting
• 100/200 Amp Upgrades
• Indoor/Outdoor Lighting
• 220 Lines / AC Lines
• Doorbells / Ceiling Fans
• Fuse Box Repairs
• Dryer Lines
O FREE O
troubleshooting
Emergency
O
O
Service
Do You have a
Service?
Are You in the
Business Directory?
Serving mt. airy, Germantown & West Oak Lane
215-768-6431
Call Rachel and Put
ADVANCED ELECTRIC
SERVICES, INC.
215-396-2804
Low Rates • Fast Services
Up Front Prices • 100-200 Amp Breakers
Troubleshoot Repairs
You Got a Friend in the Business.
Let’s Beat the Recession Together
“We Do It All!”
License #17027
Bonded
Your Business in
Northwest Philadelphia’s
Largest-Circulation
Weekly Newspaper.
215.438.4000
Insured
Maternal Wellness Center has
received a $10,000 grant from
Green Tree Community Health
Foundation, in support of the
Healthy
Moms
Initiative.
Announcement of the grant was
made by Susan Hansen, Ph.D.,
executive director and CEO of the
Foundation, on behalf of the
Board of Trustees on Nov. 20.
Laura House-Kelly, executive
director, Maternal Wellness
Center, said the funds would be
used to support outreach efforts to
low-income women and teens
through the center’s Healthy
Moms Initiative, a program providing free, holistic, perinatal
services. Begun three years ago by
local award-winning childbirth
educator, Kathleen Furin, the
Healthy Moms Initiative is
designed to improve maternal and
infant outcomes by empowering
women to take an active role in
their own healthcare. The program provides childbirth education classes, breastfeeding counseling, psychotherapy services,
yoga and support groups.
“The Maternal Wellness Center
is pleased to have the continued
support of Green Tree Community
Health Foundation. With so many
maternity units closing across the
Philadelphia region, and continued
economic pressures, women
across the area are hard-pressed to
find high-quality perinatal care,”
said House-Kelly. “With the
Foundation’s support we can bring
our services to those most in need,
women living with lower incomes
and adolescents. These women
and girls are the hardest-hit by the
recession and the continued closures of maternity units.”
Clients of the Healthy Moms
Initiative are showing remarkable
results. House-Kelly says, “Our
clients report breastfeeding initiation and duration rates twice that
of the national average and
decreased levels of stress. Recent
research suggests there may be
links between stress and anxiety
with pre-term birth. We know that
holistic healthcare; care that is
client-centered, care that empowers women to advocate on behalf
of themselves, and care that takes
into account each woman’s
unique experience, leads to excellent perinatal outcomes and to a
stronger, healthier, community.”
The Chestnut Hill Health Care
Foundation is a not-for-profit public charity that identifies areas of
vulnerability in the communities
of Northwest Philadelphia and
Eastern Montgomery County and
provides funding to organizations
whose work addresses these
needs.
For information about Maternal
Wellness Center, visit maternalwellness.org.
December 24, 2009
Germantown Newspapers Classified Advertising
FOR SALE
SERVICES
1986 Chevy S-10
Long Bed
with Work Rack.
$650
Call:
267-650-0629
WINDOWS–WINDOWS–WINDOWS
$250 Installed
BOB’S HOME IMPROVEMENT
BOB’S CeLL 215-669-3752
NO SALESMEN.
NO DEPOSIT.
INSTALLED BY OWNER
WEST JOHNSON CLASSICS
86 W. Johnson St., 19144
215-438-4330
MOBILE NOTARY SIGNING SERVICE
Licensed, Bonded, Certified
We Travel to banks, title companies,
Senior centers, convalescent &
Retirement homes.
Your Business or Residence!
Call: 215-548-5894 or
www.needmobilenotaryservice.com
TYPING
Do you need a resume typed
or updated?
An Excel sheet created for your
customers/clients?
Book or memoirs edited/typed
and put on a disk?
Pamphlets, monographs,
short stories?
I type 100 wpm &
am computer literate.
Call: 215-753-0500, lv. message
1965 RED MuSTANG
Convertible w/White pwr top,
V-8, Automatic, upgraded radio.
Complete restoration.
$25,000
1966 TRIPLE BLACK CADILLAC
FLEETWOOD,
Mint original, always garaged!
64,000 miles
$15,000
1960 CHEVY IMPALA
V8, duals, 2-tone
Excellent orig; garaged
$14,500.
1974 MGB ROADSTER
Red, Excellent-restored
$7,500.
1975 TRIuMPH TR-6
Maroon/Tan; Garage kept.
$8,500.
1987 JAGuAR XJ-S
Convertible; 50,000 miles.
Excellent throughout.
$14,000.
Other Collectibles &
restoration projects available!
COMPuTER FREEZES???
SLoooow? Need a Tune-up?
Virus Protection, Installs/Memory,
Faster Internet. 215-284-6038
www.SusanGuggenheim-IS.com
Your answer
for technical support & services
SPECIALTY & GENERAL
CAR SERVICE AVAILABLE
REAL ESTATE
HELP WANTED
ARNETTE’S HAIR & NAILS
LOOKING FOR
LICENSED HAIR STYLIST
w/some following, great personality,
ambitious & works well with others.
CALL Arnette at:
215-885-7608
*** EQuAL HOuSING ***
All real estate advertised herein is subject
to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which
makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because
of race, color, religion, sex, handicap,
familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitation, or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate
which is in violation of the law. All persons
are hereby informed that all dwellings are
available on an equal opportunity basis
Precious Babies Day Care
& New Pre-School
Day Care Directors
& Teachers
North Philadelphia Area
Director Requires 3–5 Years
AA Degree w/ 30 Credits in ECE
Teachers Requires 2 Years Experience
Writing Lesson Plans & Teaching
AA in ECE or CDA Preferred
Comp. Salary & Paid Vacation
Ken (215) 694-0916
REAL
REAL ESTATE
ESTATE
REAL
REAL ESTATE
ESTATE
Pet Happy Apartments
Charlwin Apartments
Page 15
REAL ESTATE
ESTATE
REAL
MARTIN ELFANT, INC.
Call Jeff Elfant @ 215-844-120
3024 W. Queen Lane
Hardwood Floors, Lots of Windows,
Walking Distance to
Public Transportation
$99 Off First Month
If You Apply by January 31st
No Application Fee Required
Just a Few Left — Contact Pam Woodland
(215) 848-2100
HOuSE FOR RENT
2XX APSLEY ST.
4BR, 2baths, W/D hookup,
open porch, backyard.
Large family room.
$1200/mo. Available now.
CALL: 610-287-9857
1. MOuNT AIRY
79XX RUGBY ST. 2BRs,
2nd Floor, $750/mo + utilities.
2. GERMANTOWN
1XX W. MANHEIM ST.
Furnished Rooms, $90 up/wk.
Call: 215-849-4385 or
267-476-4942 (cell)
CARLTON PARK &
CHARLWIN APTS. OF EAST FALLS
Now Leasing 2 & 3 BRs,
starting at $895.+ utilities.
MOVE IN SPECIALS!
Please call Leasing Ofc. for
more info: 215-848-2100 or E-mail
[email protected]
GARDEN STYLE
APARTMENT COMPLEX
IN MOUNT AIRY
NICE 1 & 2 BEDROOMS
Utilities included
except for electric.
Lv. message for Sprague Court
215-842-2500
CRITTENDEN MANOR APTS.
1 BEDROOM apartment available
in Mount Airy.
Utilities included
except for electric.
CALL: 215-842-2500
Leave message for
Crittenden Manor
Germantown
** ROOMS AVAILABLE **
Need extra rm. for a few days
during the holidays? Call us.
Immediate occupancy, $100/wk,
or efficiency avail. $500/mo.
includes all utilities. Nr. R7, R8,
rts 23,53, K & XH: 215-520-7752
HISTORIC TREASuRE
circa 1850
XXX E. Church Lane
5BR, 2.5 baths, sunny grand
foyer, gracious LR, marble FPs,
random width floors.
Lg. sculpted garden reminiscent
of Tuscany. Turret, inside shutters, newer heater.
$375,000!!
CALL: 267-241-5373
Merry Christmas
and
Happy Holidays
to Our Clients
and Readers!
GARAGE AVAILABLE
Double garage; can function as
storage or workshop.
$175/month
5812 N. 2nd ST.
1BR, 1bth avail. w/w carpets
Off-street parking; w/d on site
$550/month
262 E. CLIVEDEN
2BR, 1bth, ww carpets. Very
spacious, off-street pkg.
W/D on site. free heat!
$725/month
6628 N. 8th Street
1BR, 1bath.
Off street parking, w/d on site
$550/month
700 W. WALNuT LANE
2BR, 1bth, ww/carpets, W/D,
lots of closet space,
new windows, off street parking.
$695/mo
FREE MONTH’S RENT ON ALL
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
LARGE 1BR APARTMENT
Newly Remodeled,
Private parking,
Private entrance.
Washer/Dryer optional.
CALL: 267-226-0918
HOuSE FOR RENT
Cozy 2BR, 1 bath home
W/D, dishwasher, modern
kitchen & bath; lg. fenced backyard.
Near all transportation points.
$775 plus utilities
CALL: 215-849-8721
Page 16
December 24, 2009
The Mt. Airy Independent
New Year, New Care!!!
Enroll Your Child in Kindergarten Now!!!
Fully Staffed for Safety.