Support police survivors lunch
FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road, will host the annual Survivors’ Fund event on Saturday, May 18, from 3-7 p.m. For more information, call 215-629-3602. ••
3 upcoming trips
The Maternity BVM Seniors Group has three upcoming trips. The group will attend a tribute to the Platters at the Tropicana in Atlantic City on Monday, June 17. The cost is $70. 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 on both trips, call 215-338-9141.
There is a trip to the Smoky Mountain Show (Dollywood) from Oct. 7-12. For more information, call 215-964-7125 ••
Tacony community paint day
On May 21, the Tacony Community Development Corporation is hosting a Community Paint Day with artist Mat Tomezsko at Disston Park (corner of Longshore Avenue and Keystone Street) from 3-5 p.m. Everyone is invited to get involved in a series of murals to be installed along Torresdale Avenue, featuring images from the stories of Tacony. Refreshments will be provided. The event is free. Registration is not required. For more information, visit storydaleavenue.com ••
3 upcoming trips
The Maternity BVM Seniors Group has three upcoming trips. The group will attend a tribute to the Platters at the Tropicana in Atlantic City on Monday, June 17. The cost is $70. 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 on both trips, call 215-338-9141.
There is a trip to the Smoky Mountain Show (Dollywood) from Oct. 7-12. For more information, call 215-964-7125 ••
2-day rummage sale
Presentation BVM will host a rummage sale on Friday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in its church hall, Woodland Avenue and Old Soldiers Road, Cheltenham. The event will include bag sales. Call 215-379-1364. ••
Learn circus skills
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host an interactive circus on Tuesday, May 21, at 5:30 p.m. Learn how to juggle, balance feathers, spin lassos and more with the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts. The program is for children of all ages. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 215-685-9383. ••
Trip to winery
St. Hilary Travels is going to Tomasello Winery on Sunday, May 19, for the Totally Tenors Opera Gala featuring arias, songs, contemporary classics and a meal consisting of salad, soup, bread, butter, entrée and dessert. A motorcoach will depart at 12:30 p.m. at Verree Road and Solly Avenue and return at about 7 or 7:30. The cost is $120, with check or money order to St. Hilary Travels, Attn: Trips, 820 Susquehanna Road, Rydal, PA 19046. ••
Anniversary celebration
Valley Christian School, 2364 Huntingdon Pike, Huntingdon Valley, will host Valley Fest on Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be a celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary. There will be children’s activities, food, vendors, giveaways and music. ••
Unwind from stress
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host Zentangle: A Meditative Art (Butterfly Mandala Tangle), on Sunday, May 19, from 2-4 p.m. The cost is $25. Call 215-934-6206 or visit cranaleith.org. ••
Polka party
The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, will host its sixth annual polka party on Saturday, May 19, from 3-7 p.m. The cost is $20 and includes music by TKO Band, a Polish kitchen and cash bar. For information and reservations, call 215-906-1825 or email [email protected]. ••
Car show and more
American Heritage Credit Union and BIG 98.1 will host the 20th annual car show and member appreciation day on May 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at AHCU headquarters at 2060 Red Lion Road. The free event is open to the community. All proceeds from will support the Kids-N-Hope Foundation. There will be craft vendors, food trucks, inflatables, a petting zoo, a clown and best-of-show car trophies.To register your car or car club for the show, visit AHCU.co/CarShow ••
Live Christian music
Christian bands will perform at a free event on Saturday, May 18, at Holmesburg United Methodist Church, 8118 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7. There will be snacks and drinks. There is a parking lot and handicap-accessible access behind the church. All are welcome. Call 215-624-6900. ••
Arts event in Fox Chase
The Rockledge Fox Chase Business Association will present Art in the Park on Saturday, May 18, from 2-5 p.m. at Lions Park, 7964 Oxford Ave. There will be art, vendors and music. Call Theresa at 215-722-4566. ••
Apply for Property Tax/Rent Rebate
Applications are available for the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. Individuals who qualify can receive a rebate from $380 to $1,000 from property taxes or rent paid last year. The application must be filed by June 30. To qualify, you must be a senior citizen 65 years of age or older, a widow or widower 50 years of age or older, or a disabled person 18 years or older. Homeowners and renters who have annual incomes of $45,000 or less could qualify. Only half of your annual Social Security or SSI income is counted toward the income guideline. For more information or an application, call Polish American Social Services at 215-923-1900. ••
Upcoming programs at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., will host a Microsoft Excel class on Thursday, May 16, at noon. Call 215-685-0525.
Social services with a social worker will be available on Thursday, May 16 and Wednesday, May 29, at 10 a.m. Email [email protected]. Social workers are also available weekdays by phone at 215-814-4492.
Email Basics will be taught on Thursday, May 23, at noon. Call 215-685-0525.
Reach Customers Online with Google is set for Thursday, May 30, at 1 p.m.
The Claymobile pop-up ceramics studio will be on site on Friday, June 7, at 3 p.m. It’s for teens, adults and seniors. ••
Democrats celebrate trooper firing
While the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association condemned the firing of a trooper, members of the Philadelphia House Delegation said they were grateful to the Pennsylvania State Police for conducting a thorough investigation into the traffic stop and arrest of Celena Morrison and Darius McLean on I-76 in March.
“As chair of the delegation, I’m glad that the State Police have heard our concerns and took the time to hold a fair and impartial internal investigation into this matter, which has led to the officer involved no longer being employed by them,” said Rep. Morgan Cephas.
State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, co-chair of the LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus and Democratic nominee for auditor general, said he was thankful PSP officials took the investigation seriously, though he said the traffic stop and what he claimed was an escalation of force by the trooper remain deeply troubling to him. Morrison and her husband are members of the LGBTQ+ community.
“The Pennsylvania State Police made good on its promise to us by conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the incident and by making sure the trooper involved did not interact with the public, especially after video of the escalation surfaced,” Kenyatta said. “This is why body-worn cameras are key. Historically marginalized and discriminated against people and communities should not have to get out their phones to record their interactions with police just to ensure accountability. It is incumbent on government to ensure that the law enforcement officers who are sworn to protect the public should bear that responsibility and accountability. I am heartened to see Pennsylvania moving in the right direction here.” ••
O’Neill’s upcoming events
City Councilman Brian O’Neill will host three events on upcoming Saturdays, all from 9-11 a.m. at his district offices. There will be an e-cycle event at 1701 Bowler St. (at Bustleton Avenue) on May 18. A shredding event, sponsored by the Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, will take place on June 1 at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road. There will be a recycle bucket giveaway on June 8 at 432 Rhawn St. in Fox Chase, behind American Heritage Credit Union. ••
Third Thursdays at Glen Foerd
Third Thursdays at Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., are back starting May 16, 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 June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15. For more information, call 215-632-5330. ••
Magic show at library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will present Secrets of Magic on Tuesday, June 4, at 5:30 p.m. Magician Ran’D Shine performs magic tricks from his favorite magic books, tricks that cannot be found anywhere in the world. During the show, you will witness objects appear, vanish and transform. ••
Car Cruise on Sunday
The Misled Car Club will be holding a Car Cruise at United Methodist Church of the Good Shepherd, 10901 Calera Road, on Sunday, May 19, starting at 4 p.m. DJ Tom Parker will play music. Everyone is welcome. ••
Local baseball camps
Registration is being accepted for EL1’s baseball camps at Parkwood Youth Organization and Torresdale Boys Club. Sessions at Parkwood, 3301 Mechanicsville Road, will take place on Sundays, May 19 and June 2 and 9, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Sessions at Torresdale, 4500 Linden Ave., will take place on Sundays, June 2, 9, 16, 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 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.” ••
Celebrate Armed Forces Day
Tony & Nick’s Steaks, 39 E. Oregon Ave., will be supporting the Michael Strange Foundation on Saturday, May 18, in honor of Armed Forces Day. All proceeds from sides and drinks purchased from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. will be donated to the Michael Strange Foundation, which assists Gold Star families in their grieving process by providing unconditional support and services by professionals in several fields, and also by those who have suffered similar losses so that the healing process can begin. The Delaware Sea Cadets will be on hand at noon. Navy Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Petty Officer First Class Michael Strange, a Wissinoming native and 2004 North Catholic graduate, died in 2011 of wounds caused when the CH-47 Chinook helicopter he was aboard crashed in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. He was 25. Donations can be sent through Venmo @michael_strange_foundation ••
Bluegrass-classical music
The nonprofit Lyra Society will host Harp’N Hoedown, an anniversary celebration, on Wednesday, May 15, from 6-9 p.m., at BLDG39 at the Frankford Arsenal, 5401 Tacony St. The Lyra Society provides harps, harp lessons and harp presentations at no cost to School District of Philadelphia students. Performances will include a live bluegrass-classical band featuring musicians from the Philadelphia Orchestra. Tickets are available for purchase at https://lyrasociety.org/twenty ••
Events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, will offer the following programs this month: Friday, May 17, 1-3 p.m., Book Club: Peace Like a River, by Leif Enger; Saturday, May 18, 1-3 p.m., Ancient Cultures with Glencairn Museum (for kids 7-12, tickets at https://bit.ly/AncientCulturesatRyerss); Friday, May 24, 1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends; Saturday, May 25, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: Let’s Have a Parade. ••
Rhawnhurst Civic to meet
Rhawnhurst Civic Association will meet on Wednesday, May 15, at 7 p.m. at Pelbano Playground, Bustleton and Solly avenues. City Controller Christy Brady will speak, and there will be discussions on crime, zoning, abandoned automobiles and finalization of a list of businesses the group does not want to rent retail space at 8430 Bustleton Ave. Visit www.Rhawnhurstcivicassociation.com. ••
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 May 16 (Bogside Rogues), June 20 (The Launch), July 18 (The Great Scott Band), Aug. 15 (Philly Heart & Soul) and Sept. 19 (Jumper). ••
Glen Foerd plant sale
Glen Foerd is partnering with BloomBox for its spring fundraiser to benefit Glen Foerd’s community garden. Visit www.getblooming.com through May 15 to shop and place your order. Use code GFCG15 and BloomBox will deliver to your door in three days and donate a percentage of the sales to Glen Foerd’s community garden. ••
Free Boys Choir concert
The Philadelphia Boys Choir will perform a free concert on Saturday, May 18, at the Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road. The concert will start at 2 p.m. in the social hall. There is parking on campus. All are welcome. ••
Programs at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host a Chair Yoga series Wednesday mornings at 10:10 a.m. until May 22. An Art Journal program for adults will take place Friday, May 17, at 10:30 a.m. Incorporate colors, images, patterns and other materials into a book to hold your writing, art or diary entries. Journals can be specially customized to fit your needs. All supplies will be provided. No registration required. ••
Nature poetry workshop
Poet Diane Sahms will conduct a nature poetry workshop at Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600A Verree Road, on May 15, from 7-9 p.m. Attendance is limited to 10 participants. For more information on the workshop and to register, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/s/nature-poetry-workshop-w-diane/349002997628478/ ••
Nursery school reunion
For more than 20 years, Miss Sandy and Miss Maria have taught preschool at Redemption Lutheran Church, 8001 Bustleton Ave. They are retiring at the end of the school year. A special worship service will be held on Sunday, May 19, at 10 a.m. to honor their work. A pot luck lunch will follow. All former students are welcome to attend and bring a covered dish to share, if they want. ••
St. Hubert headed to A.C.
St. Hubert will hold its ninth annual summer fun day trip on Monday, June 17. A bus will depart the school, 7320 Torresdale Ave., at 8:45 a.m. and arrive back about 9 p.m. There will be a one-hour ride on an Atlantic City-based cruise ship and a four-hour stay at Resorts Casino, with $15 back in slot cash and a $15 food voucher. There will be a sit-down dinner and complimentary wine tasting at Tomasello Winery. The cost is $115. Contact Mary Clifford at 267-231-7367 or [email protected]. ••
Buy Jeanes auction tickets
The Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus Auxiliary Chance Auction is on June 6 in the Patient Care Center Lobby from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Each participant buys a certain number of tickets for a set price and then uses those tickets to bid on a variety of donated items on auction. The item goes to the person whose ticket is drawn at random from the container. There is a sheet of 25 chances plus one grand prize chance on sale for $10 beginning on May 23 in the main lobby and gift shop. Call the Volunteer Services Department at 215-728-2131 or email [email protected] ••
Farm stand at Jeanes
The Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus Farm Stand will be open for the 12th season on Thursdays, starting May 16, 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 [email protected] or call 215-728-2131. ••
St. Jerome Seniors to meet
St. Jerome Seniors will meet on Thursday, May 23, in the school hall, 3031 Stamford St. Arrive by 10 a.m. Meeting begins promptly at 11. ••
Local opera schedule
Amici Opera Company will present Verdi’s La Traviata on Saturday, May 18, at 7 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church, 1501 W. Brigantine Ave., Brigantine. The cost is $28.
Next will be A Concert of Arias on Sunday, May 19, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale.
There will be two performances of Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave. The dates are Saturdays, May 25 and June 1, both at 4 p.m.
United Methodist Church of the Redeemer will host two performances of Donizetti’s Il Paria on Sundays, May 26 and June 2, both at 3 p.m.
There will be a dinner opera on Tuesday, May 28, at 6 p.m. at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park. The performance will be Puccini’s Tosca. The cost is $54.95 (tips and taxes not included). For reservations, call 215-606-3800.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Yoga series at Cranaleith
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra, a six-week series, on Fridays, through June 7, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per class. Call 215-934-6206 or visit cranaleith.org. ••
Flea market at Delaire
Delaire Landing, 9355 State Road, will host a flea market on Saturday, June 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are invited. Parking is available in the lot near the tennis courts. The cost per spot is $10. Anyone interested can email [email protected]. ••
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.
Another date is May 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church, 1009 Unruh Ave.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-RED CROSS. ••
Programs at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., hosts the following recurring programs:
Chess Club for Adults on Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m. in the Humanities Department on the second floor.
One on One Basic Computer Help on Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 215-685-0525 for an appointment.
Computer Skills for Beginners on Tuesdays, at 2 p.m. The training is free. Register at 215-474-1235. ••
Birding Backpacks for loan
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., is offering Birding Backpacks for loan through September. The Birding Backpacks contain a pair of binoculars and a field guide along with some information on how to participate in bird walks in the area. To borrow a backpack, you must have an adult library card. The backpacks can be borrowed for up to three weeks, and can be borrowed again if no one else is waiting to use them. Contact Tim Paschke at 215-685-0522 or [email protected] ••
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 [email protected] ••
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. ••
Meet the animals
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host Who Lives Where on Tuesday, June 4, at 5:30 p.m. Meet animals from the Center for Aquatic Sciences. Learn about the best habitats and resources needed to survive in the wild. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 215-685-9383. ••
Entertainment at Parx
Parx Casino is offering the following upcoming entertainment:
May 17: Femmes of Rock; May 18: Sebastian Bach; May 31: Reik; June 1: Joss Stone; June 14: Almost Queen, a tribute to Queen; June 21: Corinne Bailey Rae; July 13: Clay Walker; Aug. 3: Tyler Henry, The Hollywood Medium; Aug. 10: Dylan Scott; Sept. 7: Australian Pink Floyd; Nov. 21: Aaron Lewis; and Nov. 23: Steve Trevino. ••
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. ••
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. Check or money order payable to St. William Travel can be sent c/o 206 Benner St., Philadelphia, PA 19111. Call 215-745-7199. ••
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. ••
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 occupational therapist Diana Parkinson (June 12); 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 [email protected]. ••
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. ••
Ryan ’74 reunion
The Archbishop Ryan High School Class of 1974 will celebrate its 50th reunion on Friday, May 31, from 7-11 p.m., at the Southampton Room, 2980 Southampton Road. For tickets or more information, go to https://www.arhs.me/update ••
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. Reservations close on April 17. ••
Musical show in June
Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road, will present John Monforto’s The Man of Many Faces, on Sunday, June 2. Lunch will be at 2 p.m., followed by the performance at 3:30. Monforto is a singer, actor, impressionist, comedian, writer and emcee. The cost is $54, payable to CSS and mailed to the office at the above address. Call 215-677-1600. ••
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. ••
See performance of Anything Goes
The Star Players, of the city Department of Parks and Recreation, will present Cole Porter’s Anything Goes on May 31 and June 1-2 at 7 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, at 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets are available on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at the Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, call director Bill Arthur at 215-685-8714, like the group’s Facebook page, follow the group on Twitter @starplayersPPR or email [email protected]. ••
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. ••
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 [email protected] or visit www.tryzub.org. ••
Kids Fest on June 1
State Sen. Jimmy Dillon, Rep. Pat Gallagher and City Councilman Mike Driscoll invite the community to Kids Fest on Saturday, June 1, from 2-5 p.m. at Torresdale Boys Club, 4500 Linden Ave. There will be food, family resources and kid-friendly games and activities. Call 215-695-1020. ••
Fatima Holy Hour
The World Apostolate of Fatima is sponsoring a Fatima Holy Hour for World Peace and an end to the pandemic on Sunday, June 13, at 7 p.m. at St. Katherine of Siena Church, 9700 Frankford Ave. Devotions include rosary and benediction. ••
Bingo at Marian Hall
The Pennypack Parade Committee will hold a cash bingo on Saturday, June 1, from 6-10 p.m. at St. Dominic’s Marian Hall, 8532 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 5 p.m. The cost is $35 in advance and $40 at the door. There will be beer, wine, soda, coffee, tea and dessert. Call 215-331-5828. ••
GBCL to meet May 28
The Greater Bustleton Civic League will hold its monthly membership meeting on Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. in the community room of American Heritage Credit Union, 2060 Red Lion Road. Meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. Email [email protected] or call 215-676-6890. ••
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 5 (Street Survivor, tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd), June 12 (Crystal Ship, tribute to the Doors), 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). ••
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. Send your payment to the office at the address above. Call 215-677-1600 for further information. ••
Book club discussion
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host a book club discussion of And Then There Were None, by Agatha Christie, on Thursday, June 6, at 11 a.m. Reading the book beforehand is encouraged but not necessary. Copies of the book to borrow will be available at the branch to library card holders. Call 215-685-0472. ••
Role play program at library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will host Role Play for Beginners on Monday, June 3, at 3:30 p.m. The program is for young adults and is a kickoff to the library’s Summer of Wonder for Teens. Call 215-685-8756. ••
The second half of life
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host Word by Word: Exploring the Second Half of Life on Wednesday, May 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $48, which includes lunch. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Troopers Association condemns firing
Pennsylvania State Troopers Association President Stephen Polishan condemned the decision by the Pennsylvania State Police to fire a trooper who conducted a March 2 Philadelphia traffic stop along Interstate 76.
Polishan said:
“This decision is reprehensible. This young trooper, on the job for only six months, deserved better from our department. The department’s leadership should have fought against the attacks made about this young man’s character. Instead, they abandoned him. We can only conclude this decision is a response to a politically charged atmosphere in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania, which is making it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to carry out even their most basic duties.
“Like countless other traffic stops, this incident should’ve ended with a traffic ticket or warning and the driver being sent on their way. But a driver in a second car pulled up directly behind the trooper’s cruiser with dark, blacked-out windows, in violation of stopping on a limited access highway. Blacked-out windows also are illegal in Pennsylvania because they’re considered potentially dangerous to law enforcement officers, who cannot see if a threat exists in an automobile.
“The trooper, in the field on his own, now has his attention divided. He approached the second car with blacked-out windows, and the driver ignored orders to leave the scene. Following his training, the trooper arrested both individuals when they refused to cooperate and follow his orders.
“The growing lack of respect for law enforcement and the rule of law and the failure to understand when one’s actions may lead to a member of law enforcement feeling threatened are becoming an epidemic that must end. All this is being done at the expense of those who are putting it on the line every day.
“Every member of the Pennsylvania State Police is required to recite our Call of Honor, which includes a line we all take very seriously: ‘It is my duty to obey the law and to enforce it without any consideration of class, color, creed or condition.’ Those are words we live by. Today, our department sent a terrible message to all troopers that politics matter more than doing the right thing.” ••
Searching for America’s funniest women
Comedy producers are searching for America’s funniest women in stand-up comedy to award more than $10,000 in national comedy bookings and the 2024 Ladies of Laughter titles this coming July and August in the New York metropolitan area.
Ladies of Laughter has separate categories for “Professionals” and “Newcomers.” Those chosen to compete will be judged on audience response, originality, material and delivery by a panel of producers, press and industry judges at four preliminary events taking place in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island and Westchester.
The winners from each event advance to the Grand Finale on Aug. 14 at Rodney’s Comedy Club in New York in front of a blue-ribbon panel of judges.
Those interested in entering the Ladies of Laughter “Her Time” competition should go to https://www.ladiesoflaughter.org. Contestants must be 18 years or older and must enter before June 15.Tickets for all events can be purchased at https://www.ladiesoflaughter.org/2024-contest ••
Memorial Day remembrances
The Northeast Catholic Alumni Association will host a Memorial Day Mass and Service on Monday, May 27. Mass will be at 9 a.m. at Resurrection of Our Lord Church, Castor and Shelmire avenues. At 10 a.m., an honor guard will recognize the nearly 300 Northeast Catholic brothers who gave their lives in service to their country in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan, during a ceremony at the Our Lady of Fatima Grotto located at 2700 Rhawn St. All are welcome. ••
Eco-Spirituality Day
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will sponsor Eco-Spirituality Day: Forest Bathing & From Lightbulbs to Vessels, Arks and Wells Workshops on Sunday, June 9, from 12:30 to 8 p.m. The cost is $68 and includes dinner. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Renewal program for women
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host From Weary to Depressed: The ABC’s of Renewal for Women Leaders, on Friday, June 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $53 and includes lunch and a restorative yoga session. Call 215-934-6206. ••
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. ••
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. ••
Fox Chase nurses, tech professionals could strike
Nurses and technical professionals who work at Fox Chase Cancer Center last week put Temple “on notice.”
A combined 94% of both locals voted to authorize a strike notice to Temple for a strike to begin on Tuesday, June 4.
“We’ve had enough of the disrespect and languid responses from administration,” said Supportive Oncology and Palliative Care Nurse Maria Klinger-Gonzalez, a 13-year veteran of Fox Chase Cancer Center. “They don the guise of good-faith bargaining, hoping that their delays and lack of impetus will dishearten us. But they have galvanized us more. We are hoping that this overwhelming vote will provide the catalyst for them to take us, the care we provide, and our patient population seriously.”
“Temple needs to get serious,” said Jarrett Brown, a radiation therapist and 15-year veteran of Fox Chase. “Their wage proposals for a lot of my colleagues are considerably lower than what they currently make. They’re asking us to move backward. We unionized to move forward in terms of protections, resources and respect.”
The union said Temple has proposed cutting retirement matching and making the caregivers’ “highly punitive” attendance policy even more punishing during a post-pandemic time when caregivers are fleeing the bedside and retention of skilled, experienced health professionals is more important than ever. Temple has also rejected contract language that would ensure minimum safe nurse staffing levels – a critical, quality-of-care issue – at Fox Chase.
The union points to studies that have shown hospitals in which nurses care for fewer patients each have better patient outcomes, including lower patient mortality rates, lower readmission rates and shorter lengths of stay. Plus, research has shown that the benefits of better staffing also extend to RNs: Hospitals with better nurse staffing have lower rates of nurse burnout and less job dissatisfaction, and nurses at better staffed hospitals are less likely to leave their employers because those RNs are not risking their license and moral injury on a daily basis to care for more patients at a time than is safely possible.
“No one wants to walk away from our patients,” said Fox Chase Ambulatory Care Nurse Sue Repkoe, “but we’ll do it if we feel we have to – to advocate for future patients, for future patient care and for future nurses. I want people to get into nursing. I want nurses to have what we need to give our patients the care they deserve. And I’ll fight for that.”
“We formed a union because we need a voice to better advocate for our patients and ourselves,” said Rossana Caputo, RN, a 17-year veteran of Fox Chase Cancer Center, “and we’re seeing that in bargaining, too. Temple has rejected our proposals to put safe staffing levels in our contract. And they are actually trying to harden their already punitive attendance policy, which we feel is very unfair. Other Temple facilities don’t have this policy – not Jeanes, not Temple Main. We feel that we are Temple. We are one. And we shouldn’t be punished for being sick and calling out. Administration isn’t punished for being sick. Why should we be?”
The union said Temple Health System isn’t adhering to its “We are one Temple” motto or “The Best Care, Wherever You Are” tagline.
“All we want is to be treated fairly and to have a voice to advocate for ourselves and our patients, who need and deserve the best care we can provide,” says FCCC CT Technologist Kristy Emmett. “You’d think Temple Health would want the same thing, but they’ve been fighting us every step of the way.”
“Administration says they care about patient care,” added Klinger-Gonzalez. “Show us. Respect us. Listen to us. Then – and only then – will we believe you.” ••
