Flea market on June 29
Crescentville United Methodist Church, 400 Sentner St. (at Hasbrook Avenue), will host an indoor and outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. There will be a free hot dog for the first 50 people making a purchase. Food and drinks will be sold. ••
Kid crafts and storytime
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host a Craft of the Week on Tuesdays, June 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Aug. 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. Children in K-5 and preschoolers with an accompanying adult are welcome.
The library will host Preschool Storytime on Thursday, June 27, July 11 and 25 and Aug. 1 and 8 at 10:30 a.m. There will be stories, songs and fingerplays for children 3-5, accompanied by an adult.
Call 215-685-9383. ••
Northeast native releases novel
Northeast native and independent author Christopher Tait, a graduate of Father Judge High School (1996) and Holy Family University (2000), has released his fifth self-published novel, Three Days in West Chester, through Amazon.com. He has also previously self-published three short story collections. He has also written and directed six short films since 2016, all available on YouTube, and has had short plays produced as part of festivals by local theater companies.
Take the Long Way begins in 1995, when high school junior and drummer Derek Mooney unexpectedly learns that he is the only student from his school to earn a spot on a prestigious band made up of the top high school musicians in Philadelphia. Over a three-day rehearsal period at a school in West Chester, he’ll deal with a conductor who takes an instant dislike to him, fellow musicians who don’t think he belongs there, a crush on a bandmate whom he knows he can never be with and a homemade spaghetti and meatball dinner that violently disagrees with him. He will also play the best he’s ever played, make friends with students from a rival school and fall in love with someone he’d never truly noticed before.
The novel’s inspiration comes from the author’s own experience of playing in the All-Catholic Band when he was a junior at Father Judge (represented in the novel by its fictional counterpart, St. Francis De Sales Catholic High School). The author played drums for many years, taking lessons at Howard Herbert’s Music, formerly on Frankford Avenue, with revered drum teacher Justin “Jay” Bruno.An excerpt from the novel can be found at https://taitdog.wordpress.com/. The novel can be purchased on Amazon.com at this link: Three Days in West Chester: Tait, Christopher: 9798323435135: Amazon.com: Books ••
Become an organ donor
The Gift of Life Donor Program is celebrating 50 years by trying to sign up 50,000 organ donors. Organ donors are wanted regardless of age, health or medical history and can sign up online without going through the state and putting it on their driver’s licenses. To sign up for the 50 for 50,000 campaign, go to donors1.org/register. For more information, visit donors1/org/50th. ••
Community events at PPH
The Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road, will host several free events for the community in its social hall. There will be a Red Cross blood drive on Monday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The South Philly String Band, champion in the 2024 Mummers Parade, will perform on Tuesday, June 25, at 7 p.m. There will be a program on AM radio of the 1960s and ‘70s on Wednesday, July 31, at 7 p.m. ••
Clothing sale at thrift shop
The Classroom Thrift Shop, 4301 Tyson Ave., will have a bag sale (fill a bag of clothing) for $5 from June 23-30. The shop is accepting donations. Hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shop is closed Saturdays and will be closed July and August, reopening around Labor Day fully restocked. Call 215-624-9130. ••
Programs at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host Movement Adventure on Tuesday, June 25, at 11 a.m. Thembi Palmer will lead kids 2-5 in dance, yoga and pretend play.
PA CareerLink will help with one-on-one job search assistance on Wednesday, June 26, at 2 p.m. Get individualized support with résumé development, career counseling and professional development workshops. Call 833-750-5627.
The Register of Wills will hold a workshop on Thursday, June 27, at 10:30 a.m. Learn about writing and updating your will, estate planning and probate court.
A Book Club discussion will take place on Thursday, July 11, at 11 a.m. The book will be The Dry by Jane Harper. It’s an atmospheric mystery about a small town hiding big secrets. Reading the book beforehand is encouraged but not necessary. Copies of the book to borrow will be available at the branch. Call 215-685-0472. ••
Pennypack Music Festival
The Pennypack Music Festival will take place on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at Cannstatter’s, 9130 Academy Road. The schedule is June 19 (The Launch, tribute to Queen and Styx), June 26 (Saints in the City, tribute to Bruce Springsteen), July 3 (Idol Kings, tribute to Journey and REO Speedwagon), July 10 (Angry Young Band, tribute to Billy Joel), July 17 (Irish Night, Ed Kelly’s birthday celebration, Jamison and Bogside Rogues), July 24 (Black Dog, tribute to Led Zeppelin), July 31 (Starman, tribute to David Bowie), Aug. 7 (Kick it Out, tribute to Heart), Aug. 14 (Pure Petty, tribute to Tom Petty) and Aug. 21 (Romeo Delight, tribute to Van Halen). ••
Third Thursdays in Mayfair
The Mayfair Business Improvement District will hold Third Thursday Night Markets from 6-9 p.m. at Frankford and Cottman avenues. The events will feature vendors, food trucks, drinks and live music. The schedule is June 20 (The Launch), July 18 (The Great Scott Band), Aug. 15 (Philly Heart & Soul) and Sept. 19 (Jumper). ••
Third Thursdays at Glen Foerd
Third Thursdays at Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., are back, continuing June 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. There will be a happy hour, live music, food and beverages, children’s activities and art. The public is invited to bring a blanket or chairs, enjoy lawn games, roam Glen Foerd’s grounds and explore its Gilded Age mansion, which will be open for free self-guided tours. Donations are appreciated but not required, and attendees are asked to register in advance by visiting www.glenfoerd.org/events. Future Third Thursday dates are July 18 and Aug. 15. For more information, call 215-632-5330. ••
Trip to New York
Friends of Fox Chase Library is holding a bus trip to New York City on Saturday, June 22. The cost is $55. The bus will depart 900 Solly Ave. at 9 a.m. Once in New York, the day is yours to do as you wish. The bus will depart for home at 6 p.m. Payment to “Friends of the Fox Chase Library” – Att. Michele, Trips – 501 Rhawn St., Philadelphia, PA 19111. Call 215-498-5908. ••
Millbrook Civic to meet
Millbrook Civic Association will meet on June 25, at 7 p.m., at the Calvary Athletic Association clubhouse, 4330 Deerpath Lane. Future meetings will be on Sept. 24, Oct. 29 and Nov. 26. For more information, email millbrookcivic@verizon.net ••
Senior trip
St. Katherine of Siena Primrose senior club is running a trip on Friday, June 21, to Shawnee Playhouse for a sit-down luncheon and the musical My Fair Lady. The cost is $110. Call Catherine Murphy at 215-919-4399 for reservations. ••
Day of renewal for women
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host From Weary to Refreshed: The ABCs of Renewal for Women Leaders on Friday, June 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day will include lunch and yoga. The cost is $53. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Upcoming opera performances
Amici Opera Company will present Ponchielli’s La Gioconda on Sunday, June 23, at 3 p.m., and Saturday, June 29, at 4 p.m., at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.
Amici will present Bizet’s Carmen on Sunday, June 30, at 3 p.m., and Saturday, July 20, at 4 p.m., at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Chick-fil-A fundraiser
The 8th Police District Advisory Council is organizing a fundraiser on June 27, from 5-8 p.m., at Chick-fil-A, 9711 Roosevelt Blvd. A portion of all sales from 5-8 p.m. will benefit the 8th PDAC. ••
Business meeting on Monday
The Castor Bustleton Cottman Business Association will meet on Monday, June 24, from 6-7 p.m. at PATH, 1919 Cottman Ave. Guest speakers will be from Community First Fund, which helps local businesses get funding and let them know about any grants available. ••
Concert at Holmesburg Library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will host an Ants on a Log Family Concert on Monday, July 8, at 3 p.m. The music will center on positivity, “social justice” and silliness. The concert will include humor and harmony, and is designed to be energetic, interactive and a delight for children and adults. ••
Sielski at beef and beer
The Men’s Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road, is hosting its annual beef and beer on Thursday, June 20, at 6:30 p.m. The cost to attend is $30 per person. Inquirer sports columnist Mike Sielski will be the guest speaker. Call 215-677-1600 for further information. ••
Events at Women’s Animal Center
Women’s Animal Center, 3839 Richlieu Road in Bensalem, will be hosting three Mini Paws Club programs for children ages 7-12. During each Mini Paws Club session, children will participate in a lesson on the day’s topic, games, hands-on crafts, a tour of the center, enrichment activities for the animals and meet and greets with animals.
The dates and topics are:
• Thursday, June 20: Vet for a Day – Learn about the various things veterinarians and vet technicians do to keep animal patients healthy
• Thursday, July 25: Art with Animals – Draw animals from real life by visiting and sketching adoptable shelter pets, set up simple art projects for animals to do, and learn about how making art can be enriching for animals
• Thursday, Aug. 15: Understanding Animals – Learn about animal behavior and body language, and when and how to approach an animal.
For more information or to register, go to
https://www.womensanimalcenter.org/our-community-programs/mini-paws-club or email education@womensanimalcenter.org ••
Blood drive on June 27
The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive on Thursday, June 27, from 2-7 p.m. at Cpl. John Loudenslager American Legion Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave. Sign up by calling 800-RED CROSS or going to www.redcrossblood.org and entering ALPOST366. ••
Events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, will host the following programs: Friday, June 21 (1-3 p.m., Book Club: Anne of Green Gables); Saturday, June 22 (1-3 p.m., Storytime: Peter Pan: A Pirates & Fairies Party; crafts and food; register: ryerssmuseum@gmail.com); Friday, June 28 (1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends); Friday, July 5 (1-3 p.m., Genealogy Group); Friday, July 12 (1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends); Saturday, July 13 (10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: Pets, pets invited); Friday, July 19 (1-3 p.m., Book Club); Friday, July 26 (1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends); Saturday, July 27 (10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: Waterplay, bring your swimsuit).
Call 215-685-0599. ••
Weekly Mahjong games
KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., hosts weekly Mahjong games on Thursdays at noon in its library. Beginner or intermediate Mahjong players are invited to take part. There is no charge. Call 215-380-9144. ••
Sign up for basketball camp
The 18th annual Jaguar Summer Basketball Camp will take place in the air-conditioned Marian Center at St. Ephrem, in Bensalem, from July 22-26.
The camp is for boys and girls in kindergarten through 12th grade, and will include fundamentals and competition.
The cost is $150 and includes a free basketball and T-shirt. Campers must bring their own lunch.
The camp is under the direction of former college coach Dan Williams.
For a brochure or questions, email WilliamsD@LSCHS.org. ••
Holy Inn traveling to A.C.
Holy Innocents is sponsoring a casino trip on Thursday, Aug. 15. A bus will depart L Street and Hunting Park Avenue at 9:30 a.m., with an option to attend the Wedding of the Sea festival at Hard Rock Casino Arena. There will be a Mass at noon, followed by a procession to the sea at 1:15 p.m. and a $10 slot package at Resorts Casino. The bus will depart Resorts at 5 p.m. The cost is $40, due by Aug. 1. To reserve your seat, call Cindy at 215-535-2740. ••
Local baseball camps
Registration is being accepted for EL1’s baseball camps at Torresdale Boys Club, 4500 Linden Ave. Camps are on Sundays, June 23 and 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost for each session is $30. The camp, under the direction of Andrew Lihotz, is geared to boys and girls ages 6-15. All fundamental skills such as base running, fielding and hitting will be taught. No experience is needed. Go to https://www.el1sportspa.com/baseball/, scroll down to Neighborhood Summer Camps, click “Register” and then “Pick an option.” ••
Donate blood
The American Red Cross is encouraging people to donate blood.
The Northeast Philadelphia Blood Donation Center, 1401 Rhawn St., is open Monday-Wednesday, 11:45 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, 10:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Friday-Sunday, 7:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Other dates are June 21, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jefferson Torresdale Hospital Church, 10800 Knights Road; June 23, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ascension Mar Thoma Church, 10197 Northeast Ave.; June 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6500 Tabor Ave.; June 26, 2-7 p.m., St. Katherine of Siena Parish Center, 9700 Frankford Ave.; June 27, 2-7 p.m., American Legion Post No. 366, 7976 Oxford Ave.; and June 28, 7 a.m. to noon, Jefferson Frankford Hospital, 4900 Frankford Ave.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-RED CROSS. ••
Bus trip to Lancaster County
St. William Travel is planning a trip to Lancaster County on June 20. There will be a Magic & Wonder Theater show, buffet lunch at Shady Maple, round trip by motorcoach, with all taxes and gratuities included. The cost is $120. Bus departs from Gloria Dei Estates, 1304 Rhawn St., at 9:15 a.m. and returns 6:15 p.m. Call 215-745-7199. ••
Bus trip and lunch
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring a bus trip on Friday, June 21, to the Morris Arboretum & Gardens and “Cliveden,” a National Trust Historic Site and the site of the 1777 Battle of Germantown. A 3-course luncheon will be served at Brittingham’s of Lafayette Hill. The all-inclusive cost is $150. For a flyer and reservation form, call 215-788-9408. ••
Vacation Bible School
Memorial Presbyterian Church of Fox Chase, 7902 Oxford Ave., is hosting a free Vacation Bible School called “Camp Firelight.” The program will run from July 29 through Aug. 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. All children ages 4 to sixth grade are welcome to join. Register at myvbs.org/mpcfc or call 215-745-2844. ••
Car show at Ryan
The Archbishop Ryan Annual Alumni Car Show will take place on June 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the school, 11201 Academy Road (rain date June 30). Admission is free. In addition to vintage and custom cars on display, there will be food, adult beverages, merchandise vendors, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, a DJ and the classic rock band Mojo Channel.
Prizes for cars include Top 40 Awards, Principal’s Award, Hottest Ride on Campus for current Ryan students who enter a car, Father Renè Alumni Award for Ryan alums who enter a car and the Father Noel Legacy Award. To register a car, the cost is $20 online, $25 the day of the event. The cost for merchandise vendor registration is $25, to be paid online prior to the event. Registration for merchandise vendors will not be accepted the day of the event. Sponsorships are available. To register or learn more, visit ARHS.me/CarShow. ••
2 upcoming trips
The Maternity BVM Seniors Group has two upcoming trips.
There is a trip to the Smoky Mountain Show (Dollywood) from Oct. 7-12. For more information, call 215-964-7125.
The group will travel to Lancaster on Thursday, Dec. 12, for a luncheon and the show Joy to the World at the American Music Theatre. For information, call 215-338-9141. ••
Farm stand at Jeanes
The Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus Farm Stand will be open for the 12th season on Thursdays, through the end of October, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cash only. The stand is located next to parking lot C of the Jeanes and Fox Chase Cancer Center campuses. Email rosemarie.schlegel@tuhs.temple.edu or call 215-728-2131. ••
Sunday flea market returns
A flea market will take place every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through November at Liberty Plaza, 90 Franklin Mills Blvd. (near Knights Road). The cost for vendors is $30 per parking space. For more information, call 215-625-FLEA (3532) or visit PhilaFleaMarkets.org. ••
Entertainment at Parx
Parx Casino is offering the following upcoming entertainment:
June 21: Corinne Bailey Rae; June 28: It’s Happening w/Snooki & Joey; July 13: Clay Walker; July 19: Debbie Gibson; July 26: Kameron Marlowe; Aug. 3: Tyler Henry, The Hollywood Medium; Aug. 23: The Marshall Tucker Band; Sept. 7: Australian Pink Floyd; Sept. 21: Dustin Lynch; Oct. 4: Heather McDonald; Oct. 18: Straight No Chaser; Oct. 19: Giggly Squad Live; Oct. 25: Michael Blaustein; Nov. 9: Air Supply; Nov. 21: Aaron Lewis; Nov. 23: Steve Trevino; Dec. 7: Kathleen Madigan ••
Bingo at Cannstatter’s
Bingo is played every Thursday at Cannstatter’s, 9130 Academy Road. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 6:30. Call 215-322-0121. ••
Bingo at Loudenslager
Corp. John Loudenslager American Legion Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave., is offering community bingo every second and fourth Friday evenings. Doors open at 6 p.m. There are dollar hot dogs and free popcorn and refreshments. ••
VFW looking for members
Bustleton-Somerton/CTR1 Michael J. Strange VFW Post 6617 meets on the third Wednesday of every month at American Legion Post 810, 9151 Old Newtown Road. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m. If you are a military veteran who served in a designated combat zone, you are eligible to join the VFW. Call Commander Israel Wolmark at 215-725-0630 if you would like to join the post. ••
Trip to Northern Europe
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is presenting a Northern Europe: Iceland, Norway, Netherlands, Belgium and London cruise, July 25 to Aug. 4, aboard the new “Norwegian Prima.” Rates per person are $6,261 and $6,495, which include roundtrip airfare from Philadelphia. Deposit of $350 per person double occupancy is required when booking. Call 215-788-9408. ••
Ukrainian Folk Festival in August
The Ukrainian Folk Festival will take place on Sunday, Aug. 25, from noon to 8 p.m., at the Ukrainian American Sport Center — Tryzub, County Line and Lower State roads, Horsham.
There will be Ukrainian folk art, music, dance, crafts and historical reenactments, a variety of food and refreshments and a vendors grove. Admission is $15, and a portion will be donated to relief of war victims in Ukraine. Kids under 15 will be admitted free. Parking is free. Call 267-664-3857, email info@tryzub.org or visit www.tryzub.org. ••
Free family event at Cranaleith
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, invites the community to a Home & Garden Day on Saturday, June 29, from 1-4 p.m. The event is free and for all ages. There will be historic house tours, nature-based crafts, an outdoor scavenger hunt, beehive and garden demonstrations and a family drum circle. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Healing, balance and peace
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host Tibetan Singing Bowls for Healing, Balance & Peace on Sunday, June 30, from 1-4 p.m. The cost is $30. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Book club to meet
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will be holding a Zoom session on Monday, July 1, at 7 p.m. The book is The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Book club to meet on Zoom
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will be hosting a Zoom session on Monday, Aug. 5, at 7 p.m. The book is The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristen Harmel. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Book club meeting in Sept.
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will be hosting a Zoom session on Monday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. The book is Horse by Geraldine Brooks. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Book club to meet in Oct.
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will be holding a Zoom session on Monday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. The book is Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Book club meeting
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will hold a Zoom session on Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. The book is Blake Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Book club to meet in Dec.
The Book Club of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will host a Zoom session on Monday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. The book is The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard. For further information, or to register for the book club program, call Lynn Ratmansky at 215-677-1600. ••
Trip to New York
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring a bus trip on Tuesday, Oct. 8, to the Tenement Museum in New York, with lunch and free time in Manhattan’s Little Italy. The all-inclusive cost is $175. For a flyer and reservation form, call 215-788-9043. Reservations close on Aug. 30. ••
Party for West Catholic girls class of ‘69
West Catholic Girls Class of 1969 will have its 55th anniversary party on Sunday, Sept. 29, at Anthony’s Ristorante, 865 W. Springfield Road, Springfield. The cost for the luncheon is $65. Call Hannah at 610-764-3249. ••
Christian musical performances
Christian bands will perform at a free event on Saturday, June 29, at Holmesburg United Methodist Church, 8118 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the concert starts at 7. There will be snacks and drinks. There is a parking lot and handicap-accessible entrance behind the church. All are welcome. Call 215-624-6900. ••
Support for Parkinson’s
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus hosts a Parkinson’s Disease Support Group on the second Wednesday of every other month. The meetings will take place from 5-6 p.m. at the Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse, 7604 Central Ave. The group is led by nurse practitioner June Ro and attended by guest speakers, patients and caregivers.
The guest speakers are Dr. Nancy Minniti, a neuropsychologist (Aug. 14); Dr. Molly Cincotta, a neurologist (Oct. 9); and social worker Luisa Enriquez (Dec. 11).
To register, contact June Ro at 215-707-2619 or Jungyoon.Ro@tuhs.temple.edu. ••
Donate school supplies
The 8th Police District Advisory Council and Sock for the Streets are organizing a back-to-school fundraiser. School supplies and monetary donations are being collected through July 15. Donations can be sent to Socks for the Streets, 2841 Norcom Court, Philadelphia, PA 19154. For more information, contact Jennifer Malazita at 215-939-2569 or 8thdistpdac@gmail.com. ••
Attend community resource fair
Socks for the Streets and the 8th Police District Advisory Council will hold a community resource fair on Sept. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Christ the King School, 3205 Chesterfield Road. To register a table, call 215-939-2569 or email 8thDistPDAC@gmail.com or SocksForTheStreets@gmail.com. ••
A grant for KleinLife
KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., received a $40,000 General Operating Support Grant from the Sarah Ralston Foundation.
Andre Krug, president and CEO of KleinLife, said that he is thrilled to receive the grant.
“It is because of wonderful and generous partners such as the Sarah Ralston Foundation that we are able to continue to deliver quality services to our seniors in Northeast Philadelphia and surrounding communities.”
The Sarah Ralston Foundation supports and enhances the quality of life of “vulnerable” and “underserved” older adults residing in Philadelphia. ••
High marks for Nazareth transitional care
Nazareth Hospital announced that its Transitional Care Unit has earned deficiency-free survey results based on routine annual examination by the state Department of Health and Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems for the survey year 2022-23. The results signify 100 percent survey compliance with all federal and state standards of care.
“This annual survey is a critical measure of the quality of care provided by health care organizations throughout Pennsylvania, and our deficiency-free results are a testament to the Nazareth Hospital Transitional Care team’s dedication to our residents and their journey to optimal health,” said Dr. Genevieve Skalak, medical director of the Nazareth Hospital TCU. “While bridging patients from a hospital setting to their home, the Nazareth Hospital TCU offers exceptional quality care, provided by an excellent team of skilled nurses and physicians.”
The 28-bed TCU at Nazareth Hospital provides specialized care that helps patients prepare to make the transition from an acute/inpatient hospital stay back to their home, safely and with appropriate follow-up services. Working together with patients, their families and an entire care team of professionals, the TCU enhances patient outcomes, reduces the risk of readmission and ensures necessary follow-up appointments with primary care physicians and specialists.To learn more about the TCU at Nazareth, visit https://www.trinityhealthma.org/find-a-service-or-specialty/tcu/. ••
Practical Nursing program added at Orleans Tech
Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, announced the launch of a Practical Nursing program that will connect students to viable career opportunities and economic mobility, with the help of employer partners such as Fox Subacute, Holy Redeemer, Jefferson Einstein, Oakwood Nursing, Public Health Management Corporation and SageLife.
The courses, to be held at Orleans Technical College, 2770 Red Lion Road, can be completed in a year, and combine classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences.
“The launch of this critical program will help address healthcare staffing shortages, by fueling a diverse pipeline of skilled professionals and connecting our students to viable and rewarding career pathways. We are committed to empowering the next generation of healthcare workers and ensuring they have the tools and training needed to make a significant impact in the industry, while achieving economic stability,” said JEVS President and CEO Cynthia Figueroa. ••
New Chair of Surgery at Fox Chase
Fox Chase Cancer Center has appointed Dr. Jeffrey Farma to Chair of Surgery.
“Dr. Farma has been an incredible asset to Fox Chase Cancer Center for nearly 15 years. As both an esteemed colleague and caring physician, he is held in high regard by both patients and staff alike. We look forward to his continued leadership in the field,” said Dr. Robert Uzzo, president and CEO of Fox Chase.
Farma joined Fox Chase Cancer Center in 2009 as an assistant professor. As a full professor of surgery since 2019, he has also served as Chief of the Division of General Surgery since 2018 and Surgical Director of the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program since 2013. He served as the Director of the Complex General Surgical Oncology Program from 2013 to 2022. He had served as interim Chair of Surgery since 2022.
“It is an honor to work at an institution like Fox Chase Cancer Center. In this new role my goal is to continue to foster an environment of cutting-edge compassionate care on which our patients have come to rely and to enhance our reputation regionally, nationally and internationally,” Farma said.
As Chair of Surgery, Farma will be responsible for overseeing all departmental educational activities, including professional, student, residency and fellowship programs, as well as mentoring and organizing the department’s clinical faculty. He will also expand peer-reviewed surgical oncology research and clinical trials. He aims to promote a strong culture of institutional stewardship, including a commitment to excellence, efficient and effective business operations.
Since joining Fox Chase in 2009, Farma has built a career as a clinician, researcher and educator. He specializes in treating patients with sarcoma, melanoma and other skin cancers, and gastrointestinal malignancies. He has expertise in performing traditional surgery, regional therapies and minimally invasive techniques both laparoscopic and robotic.
Farma has published more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and more than 20 book chapters. He has produced nearly 200 scientific abstracts, posters and plenary sessions, regularly representing Fox Chase at national academic meetings. He has given more than 150 invited lectures and grand rounds, and often provides expert commentary for news stories featured in the media.
Farma has been honored with many accolades and distinctions, including admission into the prestigious American College of Surgeons Academy of Master Surgeon Educators and appointment as the State Chair of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. He has mentored numerous dedicated physicians throughout his career and has been recognized as a Top Doctor for the last seven years by Castle Connolly and Philadelphia magazine.
He is a National Comprehensive Cancer Network panel member and is active in the Transatlantic Australasian Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Working Group. He was a Surgical Specialty Trustee of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Medical Society, was chair of the Society of Surgical Oncology Program Director’s Committee and a member of many professional organizations, including the American College of Surgeons, Society of Surgical Oncology and Society of University Surgeons. In addition, he provides editorial review for journals such as the Annals of Surgical Oncology and the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Farma serves on a number of institutional committees at Fox Chase, and regularly volunteers within the community leading Fox Chase teams in the Colon Cancer Coalition’s Get Your Rear in Gear and the Melanoma Research Foundation’s Miles for Melanoma events.
Farma completed his residency in general surgery at Temple University Hospital after earning his medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple. He completed fellowships in surgical oncology at the Moffitt Cancer Center and the National Cancer Institute. ••
Learn about life at sea
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will present Museum of the American Revolution: Life at Sea! on July 23, at 3 p.m. Learn about life on a privateer ship, including what, as a sailor, you might have eaten, what your job might have been, and how you would have passed the time. A program for kids up to 11 years. ••
Learn about Revolutionary War
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will present Museum of the American Revolution: Within These Walls, on July 30, at 3 p.m. Join George Washington’s Honor Guard and learn about life on campaign, and become a historian as you discover life in and around Washington’s War Tent. A program for kids up to 11 years. ••
Portion of Byberry Road to close
PennDOT announced that bridge deck repair is scheduled on the Byberry Road bridge over the CSX railroad beginning Monday, June 24, through late July. Byberry Road will be closed 24/7 from Evans Street to Worthington Road. During the closure, motorists are directed to use Roosevelt Boulevard, Southampton Road and Worthington Road. The work involves replacing the bridge’s asphalt overlay as well as deck steel repairs. A full Byberry Road bridge replacement project is anticipated to be advertised for construction in late 2024 or early 2025. Traffic flow is expected to be maintained during the future bridge replacement project. ••
School district develops a plan for Frankford HS
The School District of Philadelphia has embarked on a $19.9 million investment to reopen Frankford High School.
The reopening plan will address damaged asbestos and improve and refresh the main portion of the 108-year-old building from the ground to the fourth floor. The main part of the school has been closed since April 2023 due to asbestos concerns.
“Frankford has been an important and historic center for learning for more than a century in Philadelphia, and we are confident this investment will enable us to safely reopen the building to students and staff,” Chief Operating Officer Oz Hill said. “We are grateful for the patience and cooperation of the Frankford community and are working cooperatively with school leadership and meeting every quarter to provide updates on our progress.”
Currently, Frankford students grades 10-12 are learning in a reconfigured space in the D-wing of the building, which has been sealed off from the main portion, while ninth-graders are at Roberto Clemente Middle School, 122 W. Erie Ave. This education plan will continue through next school year, and the D wing will remain fully isolated from the main building during remaining construction.
The work to reopen has started with the imaging of the building, to photograph and document all of the current spaces, without disturbing materials.
The asbestos abatement, which will involve some repair, removal and enclosure, will begin now that the school year has ended. All asbestos abatement work will be done during the summer or after school hours when no students and staff are in the building.
The plan to address the environmental concerns and improve the building includes:
• Removal of plaster ceiling in corridor and classrooms
• Enclosure of asbestos materials, including installing laminate panels over plaster walls in corridors and classrooms. Unlike sheetrock, this material is easy to clean and resistant to damage and was used in the district’s newest school, TM Peirce, at 23 and Cambria streets.
• Removal of vinyl asbestos tile (VAT) floor tile in the basement
Once the asbestos work is completed, the building will be refreshed with new ceilings in corridors and classrooms and LED energy efficient light fixtures. All corridors and classrooms will be painted. Existing wood floors will be refinished and new vinyl tile flooring will replace existing tiles in the cafeteria spaces on the ground floor.
The district weighed several options in developing a plan to serve the Frankford community. These options considered the extent of work necessary to be able to reopen and maintain a healthy learning environment, the storied history of the facility and the budget constraints and balancing needs of the district as a whole. A full demolition and new construction would have exceeded $300 million and taken many years, and gutting the building and rebuilding from the inside likewise would have taken years and was prohibitively expensive at more than $160 million. The plan developed with the investment of nearly $20 million from capital funds enables the environmental abatement and significant improvements and will allow students and staff to return to their building in the 2025-26 school year.
Once reopened, the district will continue to work to maintain and improve conditions at Frankford. Its HVAC system could not be included in the current work due to funding constraints, but the district claims replacement remains a priority.
Though much of the asbestos-containing materials in Frankford will be removed or enclosed during this project, some asbestos containing material will remain in the building. The presence of asbestos itself is not a health hazard; it is when it becomes airborne that it can be a concern. Frankford will undergo twice-yearly inspections to check on the condition of asbestos materials so they can be maintained in good condition. ••
New vodka bottled at City Distilling
Illadelph Spirits, a craft liquor company, announced the launch of its flagship product, Illadelph Vodka. Crafted with organic wheat and triple distilled for purity, Illadelph Vodka will soon be featured in select bars and restaurants across greater Philadelphia.
The product is bottled and distilled at City Distilling, 7600 State Road, by Nick Capecci. Illadelph Spirits founder and CEO Irene Cutler led the recipe development and ingredient selection.
“We’re beyond excited to take the Illadelph brand to new heights,” Cutler said. “Creating a vodka of stellar quality was our top priority. Illadelph’s reputation as a legendary, well-established brand with a cult following gives us the confidence to stand out in a crowded market. We aim to cultivate a loyal following and look forward to introducing additional spirits in the future.”
Illadelph Spirits owner/founder and creative director Luca Falso designed the vodka’s glass bottle that features the blue Illadelph logo.
“I am thrilled to carry forward the Illadelph lifestyle brand’s legacy by stepping into the spirits industry,” Falso said. “The opportunity to create Illadelph Vodka allowed us to blend our artistic roots with a high-quality product that complements our existing brand.”
This crafted vodka is available for purchase at City Distilling, priced at $24.99 for a 750 ml bottle.
For more information, visit www.illadelphspirits.com and follow Illadelph Spirits on social media to stay updated on upcoming events and product releases. ••
RiverFest at Glen Foerd
Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., announced its annual RiverFest set to take place on Sunday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This family-friendly festival celebrates the natural beauty of the Delaware River and combines art, live music, mansion tours and hands-on environmental and educational activities, including kayaking. The celebration is free, though donations are appreciated. People are welcome to bring blankets or chairs. Register at www.glenfoerd.org/events. For more information, visit www.glenfoerd.org or call 215-632-5330. ••
Book club at Holmesburg Library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., hosts a book club every other Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. The next meeting is June 25. The club takes part in lively discussions of some great books. For more information on how you can join and what book members are reading, email or call the Adult/Teen librarian at kochd@freelibrary.org or 215-685-8756. ••
Summer music camp
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will hold Find Your Song: An Exploration of Storytelling and Music-Making for Children from July 15-19. The camp is for children ages 6-12 and is open from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The cost is $125 for the week, or $27 per day. Call 215-934-6206. ••
