Seeking bowlers
Spare Pins Mixed Bowling League is seeking bowlers. The mixed league bowls on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at Thunderbird Lanes, 3075 Holme Ave. It’s a fun league with 100% handicap. Bowling is September through May. If interested or have questions, call Jim at 267-896-7601 or Chuck at 215-744-1591. ••
FCCC hires hospitalist
Fox Chase Cancer Center announced the hiring of Dr. Michelle Pedersen as a hospitalist and Assistant Professor in the Division of Hospital Medicine within the Department of Medicine.
The hospitalists at Fox Chase help establish a bridge between highly specialized cancer care and general medicine. Their goal is to provide the highest-quality medical care to patients receiving cancer care at Fox Chase.
Pedersen is joining Fox Chase following the completion of a Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at Fox Chase and Temple University Hospital. In the three years prior to that, she was a hospitalist in the Inpatient Oncology Unit at Reading Hospital in West Reading, Pennsylvania.
Pedersen earned her undergraduate degree in biology from Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. She earned her medical degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia. Pedersen initially trained in family medicine at Lehigh Valley Health Network and then completed an internal medicine residency at Garden City Hospital in Michigan.
As part of her fellowship at Fox Chase, Pedersen worked on a quality-improvement project with the goal of improving naloxone prescriptions for patients in outpatient supportive oncology and palliative care clinics. She also took part in a practice-improvement project at Lehigh Valley Health Network aimed at improving the percentage of mammograms in outpatient offices. Her professional interests include social determinants of health, hematology and oncology, palliative care and hospital medicine.
Over the course of her career, Pedersen has been an author on multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals such as Nanomedicine and The American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism and has lectured on a variety of topics at both Fox Chase and Garden City Hospital.
She is a member of the American College of Physicians, the American Osteopathic Association, the Pennsylvania Medical Society and the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
Pedersen began her tenure at Fox Chase on July 22. ••
National Night Out at Russo
Tacony Holmesburg Town Watch will hold a National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 4-7 p.m., at Russo Park (7300 Torresdale Ave). There will be live entertainment, vendors and crafters, small businesses, military recruiters and speeches by elected officials and members of the police department. It’s a free event for the whole family. ••
New Fox Chase Division Chief of Surgical Oncology
Dr. Sanjay S. Reddy, an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery, Program Director of the Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship, and Co-Director of the Marvin & Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, has been promoted to Division Chief of Surgical Oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Reddy joined Fox Chase in 2012. Last June he was appointed as the Marvin S. Greenberg, MD, Chair in Pancreatic Cancer Surgery, making him the youngest endowed chair in Fox Chase history.
“Over the years, we have assembled a group of individuals with a strong background in oncology, advanced surgical techniques and a passion for providing comprehensive cancer care, which Dr. Reddy has embraced since his time as a fellow,” said Dr. Jeffrey Farma, Chair of Surgery.
“He is the Gastrointestinal Service Line Clinical Director, which establishes close collaboration with other departments such as medical oncology and radiation oncology. This multidisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive and coordinated cancer care plan for patients. Dr. Reddy has played an essential role in not only the growth of the Marvin & Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute but also in the leadership of the Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship.”
Reddy first joined Fox Chase for a two-year fellowship in complex general surgical oncology and was appointed Assistant Professor in 2014. In 2018, he was promoted to Associate Professor.
He has multiple peer-reviewed publications and serves on regional and national committees through the American College of Surgeons, the Society of Surgical Oncology and the Association of Academic Surgery.
On a regional scale, he has been involved with the Metropolitan Chapter of the American College of Surgeons and currently serves as a member-at-large. He has co-chaired the citywide Mock Oral Board Examination, one of the largest mock examinations of its kind in the nation, for five consecutive years.
Nationally, he serves as an Editorial Board Member for the Education and Training section for Surgical Oncology Insight, which is a part of the Society of Surgical Oncology’s signature journal, Annals of Surgical Oncology. He is also involved in fellowship training with the Society of Surgical Oncology’s leadership, which is supported by his recent appointment to the Complex General Surgical Oncology Board’s Entrustable Professional Activities Scope Council. This is a two-year commitment to develop a structured curriculum to improve surgical education.
He was named a 2023 Top Doctor by Philadelphia magazine, a Top Physician Under 40 in 2020 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society), received a leadership grant through PAMED to further develop his leadership skills, and was recently awarded the SSO Career Catalyst Mentorship Program Award.
“Dr. Reddy’s transition into this new role is a well-deserved accomplishment, and I cannot think of a better-suited colleague and friend for this position,” Farma said. ••
Bashir bashes Boyle on SAVE vote
Aaron Bashir, the Republican candidate in the 2nd Congressional District, criticized Rep. Brendan Boyle for voting against the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which would require proof of United States citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.
“Obviously, Rep. Brendan Boyle is a bad choice for Congress. Mr. Boyle cares more for illegals than the U.S. citizens,” Bashir said. “By his most recent vote in lockstep with President Biden’s disastrous policies, Congressman Brendan Boyle’s ‘No’ vote on the SAVE Act is yet another slap in the face of Philadelphia. Just like the $500 billion in taxpayer dollars that have gone to illegals on their watch, the Boyle-Biden policy of supporting illegal aliens voting in U.S. elections is an insult and injury to U.S. citizens and legal residents alike. Remember what they have done, are trying to do, and what they will do if re-elected. It is time to replace Brendan Boyle with Aaron Bashir.” ••
Free access to Olympic coverage for veterans
Service members and honorably discharged veterans worldwide will enjoy free access to NBCUniversal’s full coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, courtesy of the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Comcast NBCUniversal. Military members will be able to stream all the action from Paris using their personal devices and computers through ShopMyExchange.com. The Paris Olympics take place July 26 to Aug. 11.
More than 5,000 hours of the Paris Olympics will be available to U.S. service members and honorably discharged veterans. Throughout the Games, the offering features live competition across all 39 sports and all 329 medal events, stories and moments, as well as live streams of select practice and warm-up sessions and extensive video content including event recaps, highlights, viral moments and interviews.
“We value our relationship with Comcast NBCUniversal and are thrilled to once again be able to team with them to bring the Olympic Games to service members and their families, wherever they are called to serve,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Rich Martinez, the Exchange’s senior enlisted adviser. “The Olympics are one of the biggest events in the world, and we’re excited to play a role in helping our military community cheer on Team USA.”
“We’re thrilled to once again partner with The Exchange for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris. It’s our privilege to provide unprecedented access to this historic event to U.S. military service members and veterans, where the world’s greatest athletes will compete against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful cities in the world,” said Mona Dexter, VP of Military & Veteran Affairs at Comcast NBCUniversal.
Service members can access NBCUniversal’s coverage from their computers or personal devices by visiting NBCOlympics.com (desktop) and the NBC Sports App (U.S. only) and choosing the Exchange as their service provider. ••
Sad day in America
Aaron Bashir, the Republican candidate in the 2nd Congressional District, said it was a sad day in the United States when an assassin tried to kill former President Donald Trump, killed one man and shot two others.
“By the grace of the good Lord, Mr. Trump is fine,” he said. “My continuous prayers for President Trump’s fast recovery and for other victims.”
Bashir said Trump’s narrow escape was miraculous.
“Reflecting on the events, it becomes clear that divine intervention was at play, sparing President Trump’s life,” he said. “I’ve long believed that Trump is a chosen one to shield America and the world from the perils of the utopian globalist agenda.” ••
Movie at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will show a family-friendly movie on Friday, July 26, at 2 p.m. Snacks will be provided. The event is free and open to the public. ••
Events at Women’s Animal Center
Women’s Animal Center, 3839 Richlieu Road in Bensalem, will be hosting two 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, 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 [email protected] ••
Get answers from social worker
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will have a city social worker on site on Thursday, July 25, from 2-5 p.m., to answer any questions on city services. ••
KleinLife opens farmers market
KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., has a farmers market that sells nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables every Friday from noon to 3 p.m., through the fall. The market accepts cash, SNAP/EBT Access Cards and Philly Food Bucks. Proceeds will go to support the Cook for a Friend program as part of the KleinLife Home Delivered Meals Program. Call 215-698-7300, Ext. 196. ••
Trip to Sight & Sound
St. James, at Castor Avenue and Pratt Street, is holding a trip to Sight & Sound, a theater in Lancaster County, on Oct. 23 for the 11 a.m. show of Daniel. For more information, call 215-743-1828. ••
Kid crafts and storytime
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host a Craft of the Week on Tuesdays, July 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 Thursdays, July 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. ••
Events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, will host the following programs: 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. ••
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. ••
Watch a movie, learn about scouting
All Saints’ Church Torresdale, 9601 Frankford Ave., will host a community outdoor movie night on Friday, July 26, at 7 p.m. All are invited for a free screening of Kung Fu Panda 4 in the field behind the church. Scouts will be selling hot dogs, popcorn and drinks and providing information on scouting opportunities for kids of all ages. ••
Programs at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., offers the following recurring programs:
• Mixed Level English Class, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. Call 215-685-0522.
• PA CareerLink® Job Search Assistance, Wednesdays, 2 to 4:30 p.m. Call 833-750-5627.
• Chess Club for Adults & Teens, Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m.
• One-on-One Basic Computer Help Appointments, Fridays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 215-685-0525.
• Thursday Computer Help: Various Subjects, Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.
• Gadget Help, Mondays and Wednesdays upon request. Call 215-685-0525.
• Computer Skills for Beginners, Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. Register at 215-474-1235. ••
Oh those Wildwood days at the Polish Home
The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, will host A Night to Remember Those Wildwood Days on Saturday, Aug. 10. A beer garden will open at 6 p.m., and DJ Neil McGlynn will play music from the 1950s through the 1970s from 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. There will be a bar and Polish kitchen. Picnic tables will be available. People are welcome to bring a beach chair. For more information, call John at 215-906-1825. ••
Donate blood
The American Red Cross is encouraging people to donate blood.
Anyone who donates in August will receive a $20 Amazon.com gift card.
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 July 26, noon to 5 p.m., Plumbers Union Local No. 690, 2791 Southampton Road; July 31, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fox Chase Cancer Center, Medical Center Building, 333 Cottman Ave.; Aug. 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., American Heritage Federal Credit Union, 2060 Red Lion Road; Aug. 6, 2-7 p.m., Regina Coeli Home Association, 9617 James St.; Aug. 7, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., Jeanes Hospital, Patient Care Center, Main Lobby, 7600 Central Ave.; and Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jefferson Torresdale Hospital Church, 10800 Knights Road.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-RED CROSS. ••
Upcoming opera
Amici Opera Company will present Verdi’s Atilla on Saturday, July 27, at 4 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave. Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
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 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). ••
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. ••
AM Radio Trio band to perform at Protestant Home
AM Radio Trio band will perform a free concert on Wednesday, July 31, at the Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road.
The concert will start at 7 p.m. in the air-conditioned PPH social hall.
There is convenient parking on campus. All are welcome.
AM Radio Trio is a three-piece band that prides itself on a beautiful, versatile sound and broad fanbase.
Guests can expect a ride in the way-back machine, as AM Radio Trio will play all your favorite tunes, featuring intricate 3-part vocal harmonies, rendered acoustically. ••
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. ••
Boyle votes against bill banning noncitizens from voting
U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle voted against the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which would require proof of United States citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. Five Democrats joined 216 Republicans voting in favor of the bill, which passed, 221-198. All 198 votes against the bill came from Democrats. The bill heads to the Democratic-controlled Senate, which is expected to ignore the measure. President Joe Biden has vowed to veto the bill. ••
PA FOP, state troopers endorse Republicans
The Fraternal Order of Police Pennsylvania State Lodge and the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association endorsed the Republican candidates running for statewide office.
Those endorsed are U.S. Senate candidate Dave McCormick, attorney general candidate Dave Sunday, Auditor General Tim DeFoor and Treasurer Stacy Garrity.
“These candidates have a deep understanding and respect for the rule of law,” said state FOP President Joe Regan. “We’re proud to endorse a slate with a track record of outstanding accomplishments as public servants and for their support of the law enforcement community.”
PTSA President Stephen Polishan said, “We’re endorsing true public servants who understand the mission of law enforcement and support providing local and state police with the resources they need to do their jobs and go home safely.” ••
A show, lunch and shopping
St. Dominic’s Respect Life Ministry is sponsoring a trip to Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster County on Thursday, Oct. 3, to see the musical Daniel. Lunch will be at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, with time to shop at Kitchen Kettle Village. Cost is $187, with $100 due ASAP, $50 due by July 28 and $37 due by Aug. 24. For more information or to book, call Susan at 215-333-4313 or Carol at 215-742-6874. Do not bring checks to the rectory. ••
Activities at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., will host Edible Alphabet: Learn English through Cooking on Friday, Aug. 2, at 10:30 a.m. Adult English language learners are invited to this free class, held in the basement meeting room. To sign up, call 215-685-0522 or email [email protected].
The library will hold an English conversation group for intermediate/advanced English-speaking adults on Mondays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Aug. 12.
The library will show a movie on Monday, Aug. 5, at 4 p.m. ••
Farmers market open
The Food Trust holds a weekly farmers market at Castor Avenue and Hellerman Street. The market, featuring fresh fruits and vegetables, is open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October and will include cooking demonstrations. ••
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 Aug. 15 (Philly Heart & Soul) and Sept. 19 (Jumper). ••
Third Thursday at Glen Foerd
Third Thursdays at Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., conclude Aug. 15, 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. Call 215-632-5330. ••
Community event in Rhawnhurst
The Rhawnhurst Civic Association will hold a free community appreciation event on Aug. 10 (rain date Aug. 17), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Pelbano Playground, Bustleton and Solly avenues. There will be a bounce castle, DJ, children’s games, refreshments and face painter. ••
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 [email protected] or [email protected]. ••
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 [email protected]. ••
Millbrook Civic to meet
Millbrook Civic Association will meet on Sept. 24, at 7 p.m., at the Calvary Athletic Association clubhouse, 4330 Deerpath Lane. Future meetings will be on Oct. 29 and Nov. 26. For more information, email [email protected] ••
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 [email protected] 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:
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. 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 [email protected] or visit www.tryzub.org. ••
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 Sept 11. ••
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. ••
Cantor Don Samuels retiring
The public is invited to attend a retirement brunch party for Cantor Don Samuels on Sunday, July 28, at 11:30 a.m. at Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 9768 Verree Road. The cost is $42 per person, which includes a two-line congratulatory message in a memory book. Mail a check for $42 per person payable to Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, and include the two-line greeting Call 215-677-1600. ••
Zoom bingo
The Sisterhood of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim is hosting a virtual bingo on Zoom on Mondays, Aug. 19 and 26, starting at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $36 per person and includes two cards, for eight games of bingo each night. There will also be a 50/50. Payment can be sent to the synagogue’s new office, 8339 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, Attn: Bingo. Payment must be received no later than Aug. 5, and you must include your email address. A link will be emailed before the first bingo night. Call 215-677-1600 and ask for Gerry or Nancy. ••
St. Dom’s anniversary Mass
St. Dominic Church, 8504 Frankford Ave., will celebrate its 175th anniversary Mass on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 4:30 p.m. Archbishop Nelson Perez will celebrate the Mass. A dinner reception will follow at Cannstatter’s. Tickets cost $50. Call the rectory at 215-624-5502. ••
New art exhibit at Glen Foerd
Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., announced a new art exhibit in the library bookcases of its historic main house, on view throughout the month of July. Home Waters at Glen Foerd features wearable sculptures by jewelry artist Barb Baur.
Baur, a professor at Tyler School of Art, Temple University, and program manager of Mural Arts Tacony LAB Community Art Center, is exhibiting her work in the first-floor library of the mansion. The exhibit, which opened June 30, runs until July 31. Visitors can enjoy the artwork during Glen Foerd’s regular open hours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Baur’s number is 215-301-3336. ••
Peaches and cream in Bristol
On Sunday, Aug. 11, the Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation will host its annual Peach Social from 2-4 p.m. in its air-conditioned headquarters and shaded yard at 321 Cedar St., Bristol Borough. The cost is $8, payable at the door, and includes angel food cake topped with vanilla ice cream and fresh, sliced peaches. Takeouts will be available. Homemade baked goods, including peachy treats, will be on sale. The event benefits BCHF’s awards to Bristol High School graduates. ••
Music, song and dance
The Tzofim-Israel Scout Friendship Caravan will share their lives in Israel through music, song and dance on Monday, Aug. 12, at 12:45 p.m., at the KleinLife theater, 10100 Jamison Ave. The public is invited to the free performance. ••
Book club discussion
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host a book club discussion of Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner on Thursday, Aug. 8, at 11 a.m. The book is Zauner’s memoir about growing up Korean American, losing her mother and forging her own identity. Reading the book beforehand is encouraged but not necessary. Copies of the book to borrow are available. Call 215-685-0472. ••
Learn about Civil War VPs
America’s Civil War vice presidents will be the focus of a learning program for active adults to be held at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., on Monday, Aug. 19, beginning at 12:30 p.m. The public is invited to join with members. Cost for the program is $6 per person, made at the front desk or by mail to KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19116. Contact Mariya Kesselman-Mekler at 215-698-7300, Ext. 185 or email [email protected]. ••
New VP of academic affairs at Holy Family
Holy Family University President Anne Prisco announced the appointment of Bindhu Alappat as the university’s Vice President of Academic Affairs.
“Our national search yielded many outstanding candidates, and we are grateful for their interest in assuming this important role at Holy Family,” Prisco said. “Dr. Alappat’s academic vision, extensive experience, student-centric commitment to success and collaborative leadership style will align with our university’s values-based mission and will be immediate assets to our efforts. We were particularly impressed with the innovation and growth that Dr. Alappat ushered in through her previous roles and her dedication to delivering high-quality education that is guided by strategic decisions rooted in the Catholic mission.”
In her cabinet-level position, Alappat will oversee and coordinate the academic functions of the university including planning, development, implementation, assessment and ongoing enhancements in the areas of structure, academic rigor, programming, policies, services and students, faculty and personnel. She will oversee the deans of Holy Family University’s four schools of study (Arts & Sciences; Business & Technology; Education; Nursing & Health Sciences).
Alappat arrives following two years as the Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts & Sciences at Saint Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Prior to Saint Catherine University, she spent 16 years at Saint Xavier University in Chicago where she created the STEM Studio and the implementation of peer mentoring and supplemental instruction.
A native of India, Alappat earned her Ph.D. in chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology, in Madras, India, and her M.S. in chemistry at Mahatma Gandhi University, in Kerala, India. She has undergraduate degrees in both chemistry and education. She did her post-doctoral research at the University of Notre Dame and the University of Maryland. ••
Meet the candidates
The Men’s Club and the Chaverim of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim, 8339 Old York Road, Elkins Park, will host its Meet the Candidates brunch on Sunday, Sept. 15, at 10 a.m. The event is free and open to the community. Call 215-677-1600. ••
Lenape history, storytelling
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host Lenape History and Storytelling, with Barbara Bluejay Michalski, on Sunday, Aug. 4, from 2-4 p.m. The cost is $25. Children who attend will be able to make a hoop stick. ••
Family garden pizza party
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will hold a Family Garden Pizza Party on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 4-7 p.m. Participants will pick fresh ingredients from the garden. A sweet treat and beverages will also be provided. The cost is $65 for two family members and $15 for each additional family member. Call 215-934-6206. ••
Donate blood at Jeanes
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, 7600 Central Ave., in partnership with the American Red Cross, is having a blood drive on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will take place in the Patient Care Center main lobby, multipurpose room. If you donate blood, you will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Visit www.redcrossblood.org. Enter “TUH Jeanes Campus.” ••
Fundraiser at pottery shop
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is running a day of creative fun on Sunday, Sept. 8, at Create Me Pottery, 2048 County Line Road, Huntingdon Valley (Huntingdon Valley Marketplace), from noon to 3 p.m. The cost of pottery items average $25. The additional sitting fee of $10 includes paints and glazing of pottery. For reservations, call Bernadette at 570-401-8417. The fundraiser will continue through Sept. 22 at createmepottery.com. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Clothing drive
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is running a clothing drive on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 9 a.m. to noon, at 604 Township Line Road, Cheltenham. Bring your gently used clothing, accessories, books and small trinkets in bags or boxed for pick-up. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Addressing early literacy crisis
A new campaign, Right2ReadPhilly, seeks to address the city’s early literacy crisis by making it easier for busy, loving families to grow strong readers, piloting two things parents can do with their kids this summer.
“Right2ReadPhilly is designed on the premise that Philly families are powerful and highly motivated agents of change,” said Diane Mills, a regional co-facilitator of Philadelphia Reading Captains and a campaign adviser. “We just have to grab their attention from life distractions in respectful ways with compelling ideas.”
Right2ReadPhilly has been co-created with Philly families, guided by an advisory council of reading advocates and facilitated by Center City-based creative agency Mighty Engine with lead support provided by the William Penn Foundation.
The campaign highlights ways families can help their children develop into strong readers: the Freedom Schools Alphabet Song and Simple Signs (First Words in American Sign Language).
Sharif El-Mekki, founder/CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development and a campaign partner, said the Freedom Schools Alphabet Song was a strategy first brought to West Philadelphia children in the 1960s by black families who wanted to ensure their young children had strong reading skills.
“I remember as a child, in addition to the basic alphabet song that teaches letter names, I learned the Freedom Schools Alphabet Song that teaches letter sounds,” El-Mekki said. “It’s exciting to bring back a pedagogical tool created by black teachers of the Freedom Schools movement more than 50 years ago for the benefit of all families.”
Sara Novic — a best-selling novelist, deaf-rights activist and campaign consultant — said the Right2ReadPhilly campaign promotion of Simple Signs (First Words in American Sign Language) is reinforced by the American Academy of Pediatrics’s approval of sign language for all infants and toddlers and studies like the one published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis that shows sign language does not delay speech in hearing children.
“The Right2ReadPhilly campaign offers Simple Signs for free to boost early language and learning for all children,” Novic said. “But we especially want to reach the-more-than 70% of deaf and hard-of-hearing children who are not taught ASL.”
Heseung Song, developmental psychologist and CEO of Mighty Engine, called Right2ReadPhilly ambitious. She said the campaign seeks to prove Philly families can be reached and engaged — without an advertising budget — through social media, earned media and intensive community outreach, leveraging a wide network of Philly families and reading advocates.
“Right2ReadPhilly is training and collaborating with trusted messengers, from teen Play Captains and Reading Captains to librarians, reading tutors, social workers, parent and grandparent groups, youth-program providers and home-visiting nurses, with the hopes that Simple Signs and the Freedom Schools Alphabet Song will become favorite resources as they assist families with young children,” Song said.
The campaign website — Right2ReadPhilly.org — is structured for easy family use. It features instructional videos with kid-friendly characters as well as videos made with Philly families. There are helpful tips and fun ideas, encouraging families to try Simple Signs and the Freedom Schools Alphabet Song.
All summer long, the campaign will promote giveaways, contests and challenges through social media and community events. After the summer pilot campaign, the Right2ReadPhilly team will evaluate its impact to plan for follow-on efforts.
To learn more, visit right2readphilly.org and follow the campaign on Instagram @righttoreadphilly. ••
Attend Glen Foerd’s Wedding Crashers’ Ball
Glen Foerd’s Wedding Crashers’ Ball will take place on Friday, Oct. 25, at 5001 Grant Ave. (at the Delaware River).
The interactive event invites guests to become part of the story, blending elements of immersive theater with elegant wedding festivities, and spontaneous celebration.
The creator is inFLUX Theatre Collective, and the event is inspired by the reality TV dating show The Bachelor. Searching for the perfect partner, Glen Foerd’s bachelor must choose among five brides competing for his heart. What ensues promises to be an immersive night of romance, comedy, slapstick and chaos.
The show will go from 7-11 p.m. and will include live music by the West Philadelphia Orchestra, dinner, an open bar, dancing and silent and live auctions. There will also be an afterparty held in Glen Foerd’s Gilded Age mansion’s rathskeller until midnight. Throughout the evening, guests will be part of the narrative, interacting with characters and influencing the unfolding drama of the bachelor, the brides and their entourage.
Guests are encouraged to wear black tie, recycled wedding dresses, that old bridesmaid’s gown from hell, business attire or, in the spirit of Halloween, creative costumes.
All proceeds will go to support Glen Foerd’s community art, education and environmental programming and to preserve the nonprofit’s 18-acre Delaware River estate that includes seven historic structures dating from the 1850s.
Tickets are $185 per person, or $225 that includes the afterparty in Glen Foerd’s rathskeller. Tickets can be purchased at www.glenfoerd.org/weddingcrashersball. Ticket sales close on Oct. 4.Sponsorships are also available. For information, visit www.glenfoerd.org/weddingcrashersball, or contact Scott Reynolds at 215-632-5330 or [email protected]. ••
Hero Thrill Show is Sept. 21
The 69th annual Hero Thrill Show will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, from noon to 5 p.m., at the Wells Fargo Center.
Tickets are $15 for individuals and $35 for a family (up to five).
Proceeds pay for the college tuition of children of Philadelphia police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty.
For more information, go to herothrillshow.org. ••
