At last month’s gathering of the Burholme Community Town Watch and Civic Association, members heard updates on the local crime situation from officials of the 2nd Police District.
Addressing the crowd were Capt. Frank Palumbo, the district commander; Lt. Maria Lisa Harner; and community relations officer Dianne Murphy.
The police officials cautioned adults that they should alert their young loved ones about being careful when carrying cell phones in public.
“Kids are getting beaten for their cell phones throughout the city on a fairly regular basis,” Palumbo said.
Palumbo, who has been the 2nd district commander for a year, also mentioned that some gypsies are posing as Philadelphia Gas Works employees to gain entrance into homes. He urged people to call 911 if they witness the scam.
The commander said officers have helped solve a gang problem in the area around Castor and Magee avenues in Castor Gardens. He also expressed concern over violence taking place at and near the Lawncrest Recreation Center.
In other news from the Oct. 10 meeting, the Town Watch and civic association agreed to write a letter of nonopposition for a new shop at 7235–37 Rising Sun Ave.
The 1,800-square-foot store will sell beer, groceries and deli products. It’ll be open seven days a week. It’s the home of the former Moegerle Paints.
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board approved the transfer of a liquor license in February to owner Frank Huynh, who has made extensive renovations and promised various security measures. The interior will include tables and chairs.
Al Taubenberger, president of the Town Watch and civic association, said that he likes the fact that the owner will install security cameras inside and outside the property, and that the grounds will be well-lit. In addition, Taubenberger noted that Huynh’s family will be living on site and that the owner has provided his cell phone number if neighbors have any immediate concerns.
Some neighbors complained about late closing hours and the deli competing with its future next-door neighbor, the Quaker Diner, which provides food for civic group members after meetings.
Huynh hopes to open in January.
Also, Anne Marie Coyle, a Far Northeast resident and 1977 Archbishop Ryan High School graduate, spoke of her campaign for a seat on Common Pleas Court. Coyle, 54, spent 17 years as an assistant district attorney. Coyle finished first among nine candidates in the race for seven seats in the Nov. 5 election.
Burholme Community Town Watch and Civic Association will meet again on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, at Cottman and Lawndale avenues. ••
