North Catholic alumni golf outing
Joe Hand Promotions and Northeast Catholic Alumni Association will hold their 34th annual golf outing on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at North Hills Country Club in Glenside. The outing funds the alumni association’s scholarship fund, which provides $500,000 each year for Catholic education. For reservations, sponsorships or more information, email necathalum@aol.com, call 215-543-1051 or visit www.northcatholicalumni.org ••
RiverFest at Glen Foerd
Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., announced its annual RiverFest set to take place on Sunday, Aug. 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 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. ••
Crochet club at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., will launch a crochet club on Friday, Aug. 16, at 11 a.m. Participants are asked to bring their own materials. Meet in the Humanities Department on the second floor. Feel free to bring beverages with lids. ••
Programs at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will hold a summer movie matinee on Friday, Aug. 16, at 2 p.m. Snacks will be provided. This event is free and open to all.
PA CareerLink® will offer one-on-one job search assistance on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at 2 p.m. Get individualized support with résumé development, career counseling and professional development workshops. Call 833-750-5627 to learn more. ••
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. ••
Police town hall
Inspector Frank Bachmayer, commander of the Northeast Police Division, will hold a town hall meeting on Monday, Aug. 19, at 6:30 p.m. at Max Myers Playground, 1601 Hellerman St. ••
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. Include your email address. A link will be emailed before the first bingo night. Call 215-677-1600 and ask for Gerry or Nancy. ••
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 mkesselman@kleinlife.org. ••
Gill wants changes in sheriff’s office
Aizaz Gill, Republican candidate in the 172nd Legislative District, threw his support behind Rep. Jared Solomon’s call for action to be taken to address the myriad of problems recently reported about the Philadelphia Sheriff’s office.
“Fixing problems like those in the Sheriff’s Office will require leaders from both parties to put aside partisanship and stand together. On this issue, I stand with Rep. Solomon in his call for action. And if the city refuses to do what’s right for the people, as state rep I will take action in Harrisburg to make sure needed changes happen – and hope others will join me to do it,” Gill posted to his campaign social media accounts.
Gill said he joined Solomon’s call because, “People don’t care about politics in situations like this, they care about fixing what’s wrong. That is the kind of state representative I will be: a bipartisan voice who focuses on real results and helping people.” ••
Car show, flea market
The outside Misled Car Show and Flea Market will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at United Methodist Church of the Good Shepherd, 10901 Calera Road. The rain date is Sunday, Sept. 15, from 1-5 p.m. There is a $20 registration charge for cars participating in the show. Flea market vendor spaces are $25. Call Rosemarie at 215-868-5304 to reserve a space and Bob Dietrich at 267-968-2736 for car show information. ••
St. Hubert going to NYC
St. Hubert will hold a day trip to New York on Saturday, Nov. 23. A bus will depart the school at 7:45 a.m. There will be an 11 a.m. showing of the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, followed by free time until the bus departs at 5:45 p.m. The cost is $220 per person, paid in full by Oct. 1. Proceeds benefit the faculty scholarship fund. To reserve your seat, contact Mary Clifford at 267-231-7367 or SHSanta@huberts.org. ••
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). ••
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. ••
Upcoming opera
Amici Opera Company will present a dinner opera at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park, on Tuesday, Aug. 20, at 6 p.m. The show will be Bizet’s Carmen. The cost is $54.95, not including tips and tax. Call 215-606-3800 for reservations.
For more information, call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Event at Women’s Animal Center
Women’s Animal Center, 3839 Richlieu Road in Bensalem, will be hosting a Mini Paws Club programs for children ages 7-12 on Thursday, Aug. 15. Children will participate in a lesson on Understanding Animals, learning about animal behavior and body language, and when and how to approach an animal. There will also be games, hands-on crafts, a tour of the center, enrichment activities for the animals and meet and greets with animals.
For more information or to register, go to
https://www.womensanimalcenter.org/our-community-programs/mini-paws-club or email education@womensanimalcenter.org ••
Oldies singalong
The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, will host Sing Along to the Oldies in its beer garden on Friday, Sept. 6. The beer garden opens at 6 p.m. Music by DJ Neil McGlynn from 7–10 p.m. Free admission. Cash bar and kitchen. Call John Wisniewski at 215-906-1825. ••
Tacony CDC events
The Tacony Community Development Corporation is hosting free yoga and Pilates pop-ups on select Saturdays at 10 a.m. at 6823 Torresdale Ave., second floor. Pilates classes are on Sept. 7 and Oct. 5. Yoga classes are on Aug. 17, Sept. 21 and Oct. 12. Bring your own yoga mat. Register by calling 215-856-3029.
Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave., will hold a Movie Night on Saturday, Aug. 17, at 7:30 p.m. on the lawn. There will be popcorn and water ice. Chairs will be provided, Bring a blanket.
Monthly workshops at the Tacony Library will support the needs of local small business owners. The next business owner workshop will be held on Aug. 20 at 11 a.m. in collaboration with Councilman Mike Driscoll, who will lead a roundtable discussion on the needs of small business owners and the resources available to them. Light refreshments will be provided. Call 267-367-7766 with any questions or dietary restrictions. Future workshops will be held on Sept. 16, Oct. 7 and Nov. 18.
The Block Gives Back is holding its annual Block to School event on the 6800 block of Torresdale Ave. on Aug. 24, from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The event will include games, activities, a live performance and community partners set up all along the block. One-thousand backpacks full of school supplies will be available for free distribution. Visit theblockgivesback.org for more information and for ways to contribute.
Sign up for the first Tacony Community Yard Sale, happening Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Email taconyyardsale@gmail.com or call 267-276 2586. ••
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.
Donations are also being taken on Aug. 22, from 2-7 p.m., at Pennypack Woods Home Ownership, Community Building, 8724 Crispin St.; Aug. 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Philadelphia Fire Academy, 5200 Pennypack St.; Aug. 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Northeast Family YMCA, 11088 Knights Road; Aug. 27, from 2-7 p.m., at St. Katherine of Siena Parish Center, 9700 Frankford Ave.; and Aug. 29, from 2-7 p.m., at Ancient Order of Hibernians Division No. 39, 7229 Tulip St.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-RED CROSS. ••
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 Aug. 14 (Pure Petty, tribute to Tom Petty) and Aug. 21 (Romeo Delight, tribute to Van Halen). ••
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 by Samantha Rise, 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. ••
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. ••
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. 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. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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 millbrookcivic@verizon.net ••
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:
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. ••
Ukrainian Folk Festival on Aug. 25
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. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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 scott@glenfoerd.org. ••
Veterans monuments coming to Campbell Square
Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 87 will be unveiling two monuments honoring veterans in Campbell Square park, Allegheny Avenue and Belgrade Street, on Saturday, Aug. 24, at noon. The first monument is dedicated to all veterans from the Port Richmond neighborhood. The second is dedicated to John J. McVeigh, the only World War II Medal of Honor recipient from Philadelphia.
There will be patriotic music, and a proclamation from the state House will be given to McVeigh’s daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
All are welcome and encouraged to attend. ••
Video ceremony and conversation
Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, will host the 19th Israeli-Palestianian Memorial Day Video Viewing on Sunday, Nov. 3, from 1-3 p.m. Rabbi Sheila Peltz Weinberg, one of the founders of the Philadelphia chapter of American Friends of Combatants for Peace, will introduce the video and join a conversation afterward. The cost is $25. Call 215-934-6206. ••
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 parking lot.
Featured will be the Sound of Philadelphia music by DJ legend Bob Pantano, performances and displays of K-9 and bicycle units, the elite Philadelphia Police Motorcycle Highway Patrol Drill Team, mounted police horse, fire engines, crime-fighting equipment by the Police Aviation Unit, Bomb Squad, Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Marine Unit, firearms instructors, Police Academy and SWAT Unit.
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. ••
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. ••
Fox Chase hires cancer researcher
Fox Chase Cancer Center announced the hiring of Aitziber Buque Martinez as an Assistant Professor in the Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Research Program.
Prior to joining Fox Chase, Martinez was an instructor of cell biology in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the Weill Cornell Medical College in New York.
She received her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from the University of the Basque Country in Leioa, Spain. She also earned a master’s degree in bioinformatics and computational biology from The Complutense University of Madrid, as well as a master’s in cellular biology and neoplastic diseases from the University of the Basque Country. Martinez earned her doctoral degree in biomedicine at the Biocruces Research Institute – University of the Basque Country.
She completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Center in Paris, where she studied in the Apoptosis, Cancer and Immunity Laboratory. She then went on to become a postdoctoral associate in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the Weill Cornell Medical College, before becoming an instructor of cell biology there.
She has published more than 60 articles in peer-reviewed journals and has served as co-editor of Methods in Cell Biology.
Martinez is currently a member of the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer, the Early Career Scientist Committee at SITC, the Spanish Scientist in USA Society, the Spanish Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the American Association for Cancer Research. ••
Fox Chase appoints chief of breast surgery division
Dr. Richard Bleicher, a professor in the Department of Surgical Oncology and Clinical Director of the Breast Service Line, has been promoted to Chief of the new Division of Breast Surgery at Fox Chase Cancer Center.
“Dr. Bleicher has been a pivotal part of our team in leading the breast cancer program and directing our Breast Oncology Fellowship. He is also nationally known for his expertise in treating patients with breast cancer,” said Dr. Jeffrey Farma, Chairman of Surgery. “As Chief of the Division of Breast Surgery, I know Dr. Bleicher will continue to make a great impact on our programs and serve as an exemplary role model both within Fox Chase and in the greater community.”
The newly formed Division of Breast Surgery was created to focus efforts at Fox Chase on increasing access for breast cancer patients, as well as on clinical trials and research. In his new role, Bleicher will oversee the division’s programs, research portfolio and all clinical activities. Additionally, he will provide support for the recruitment of new faculty and the growth of the breast program at all Fox Chase satellite campuses, as well as lead and manage the division.
Bleicher has helped expand the breast faculty within the department and growing the breast surgical program in volume, location and scope. He will continue to serve as the Clinical Director of the Breast Service Line at Fox Chase, a position he has held since June 2023.
Bleicher is a member of the Board of Directors of the American College of Surgeons National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and the immediate past chairman of the Quality Improvement and Information Technology Committee for the American College of Surgeons National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.
He also recently served as the chairman of the Society of Surgical Oncology Breast Fellowship Program Directors Training Committee and been a member of the American College of Surgeons Quality Improvement Steering Committee/Cancer Quality Improvement Committee and Operative Standards Revision Workgroup.
He has authored and coauthored 110 peer-reviewed, invited and other publications, written eight book chapters and been quoted in the media over 100 times.
Bleicher helmed the introduction at Fox Chase of the EnVisio real-time Surgical Navigation System and SmartClip Tumor Marker technology.
Bleicher specializes in breast cancer with a focus on novel treatment modalities, clinical trials and cosmetic outcomes, but he is most highly recognized and cited for his research regarding the impact of timeliness and delays on breast cancer treatment. His work is the basis for two current Commission on Cancer national quality measures.
He frequently deals with cases that are not commonly seen by other clinicians, including unusual pathology results, complex cases and rare clinical situations such as male breast cancer. His research interests include health services research, breast imaging, population studies, sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer and disparities in breast cancer.
He has been an active advocate in the breast cancer community, participating each year in the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure and serving as the Fox Chase team spokesman. In addition to receiving such honors as the Jamie Brooke Lieberman Remembrance Award from Susan G. Komen Philadelphia, he has been recognized as one of America’s Top Doctors, as well as a Top Doctor by Philadelphia magazine from 2018 through 2024.
Bleicher received his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and his medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University. He completed his residency at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh, as well as a fellowship in surgical oncology at the John Wayne Cancer Institute in Santa Monica, California. He also completed a fellowship in basic science research at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh. ••
New professor for Fox Chase hematology/oncology department
Fox Chase Cancer Center hired Dr. Michael Seidman as a professor in the Department of Hematology/Oncology.
Seidman is joining Fox Chase after spending over 15 years at Alliance Cancer Specialists in Horsham, where he provided care to patients with an array of hematologic and oncologic disorders, assisted in the development of a new radiation oncology center and participated in clinical trials. He also served as a board member of Alliance Cancer Specialists and managing partner of the Abington Division.
He was also on the medical staff of Chestnut Hill Hospital, Holy Redeemer Medical Center,and Jefferson Abington Hospital. Seidman also served on the Cancer Committee for Holy Redeemer and Jefferson Abington, where he was a member of the Medical Executive Committee. He has been listed as a Top Doctor in oncology by Philadelphia magazine from 2020 through 2023.
Seidman received his medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University. He completed an internal medicine residency at Temple University Hospital, followed by an oncology fellowship at New York University Medical Center. While at NYU, he was named Hematology/Oncology Chief Fellow and Oncology Fellow of the Year.
Seidman has a number of professional publications and presentations to his credit, and some of his presentations were delivered in Barcelona at the First World Meeting of Interdisciplinary Melanoma Centers. He is board certified in hematology and medical oncology.
Seidman began his tenure at Fox Chase on Aug. 4. ••
Armenian Heritage Walk
The Philadelphia Armenian community announces an outdoor gallery called the Armenian Heritage Walk outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With a planned unveiling in April 2026, the walkway will feature public art and gardens celebrating the Armenian story, thanking America for its partnership and advancing cultural awareness.
The Walk will flank the long-standing statue called “Young Meher,” a legendary figure symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the Armenian people. While the Walk will pay tribute to the unique Armenian identity, it will simultaneously celebrate Philadelphia’s spirit of diversity. When visitors step onto the Walk, they will discover the story of a people who, exiled in genocide, found a new home in Philadelphia.
Anchored in stones endemic to both Armenia and Philadelphia and decorated with artwork and landscaping, the Walk will showcase the cross-cultural gifts of this ancient race. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore and reflect on how one of the oldest civilizations of the world endured and thrived in modern and post-modern America.
The project will kick off on Sept. 14 with an inaugural charitable and cultural event at the Philadelphia Club, celebrating the anniversary of the 100th birthday of the late French-Armenian chansonnier and Armenian champion Charles Aznavour.
The Armenian Heritage Walk is a project that will bring attention to the Armenian people and make their contributions to America and the world known to all who cross the path.Donations for the project can be made at www.armenianheritagewalk.org. ••
Money for senior housing in the Far NE
Catholic Housing and Community Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced it has been awarded more than $16.1 million for the development of Saint Katharine Drexel Place, an affordable housing community for independent seniors. These funds were awarded by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency on July 11.
Apart from PHFA, Trinity Health has matched Health for Housing’s grant with an additional $100,000 in funding. This allocation follows the City of Philadelphia’s award of $3.5 million.
Saint Katharine Drexel Place will be the eighth of its kind developed by CHCS. Located at 11051 Academy Road, the development is adjacent to Archbishop Ryan High School and involves the substantial rehabilitation of the former three-story school friary building as well as the construction of a three-story addition. Saint Katharine Drexel Place will provide 48 one-bedroom units of service-enriched affordable housing and is being designed by CBP Architects.
The Saint Katharine Drexel Place development is supported by Archbishop Ryan and City Councilman Brian O’Neill.
“I am pleased and proud to join in welcoming such a high-quality affordable senior living development to the Far Northeast,” O’Neill said.
Saint Katharine Drexel Place will provide safe and affordable housing for income-eligible seniors 62 and older. In addition, the development will be complemented by a program of on-site supportive services, which will include case management, health services and recreational activities.
Construction on the $23 million development is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2025. ••
Alum donates $1 million to Judge
The Friends of Father Judge High School Inc. recently received a $1 million commitment from Patrick S. McGonigal ’81.
In 2006, he donated $250,000 to the Quest Continues Capital Campaign to support the building of the William F. Mitchell ’59 Activity Center and the Patrick S. McGonigal ‘81 Center for Fitness and Wellness. He also donated $500,000 to the Pathway to Sustainability Campaign in 2014-15.
In the fall of 2023, Father Judge High School launched a capital campaign, “The Campaign for 3301, Securing the Future of Father Judge.” To date, including this commitment, the school has secured $14.7 million toward its campaign goal of $20 million.
The Campaign for 3301 has four strategic initiatives: the construction of the 20,000-square-foot Career Pathways Academy building; the renovation of the Science Labs (Chemistry, Biology and Physics); athletic renovations to locker rooms and training areas in the Fox Gym and Mitchell Activity Center; and an investment in the Rev. Joseph G. Campellone, OSFS Endowment.
McGonigal said, “I owe any success I achieved in my business career to God, my family, Father Judge and Drexel University, in that order. God gave me the smarts and blessed me with loving, unselfish parents. In our house, we were taught, and shown, that working hard and doing the right thing will always give you a better shot at success, however you define it. My time at Judge taught me that competition is a good thing, spirituality matters, and friendships will enrich your life more than you can appreciate as a high schooler. Continuously earning the term “Judge Guy” remains front and center in my life.
“My affiliation with the team at Father Judge over the years, led by Brian King, Father Joe Campellone, Charlie Huckel and many, many other dedicated staff and volunteer board members, made me a better person. It also gave me firsthand insight into the challenges to be overcome, and opportunities to be seized. There is no better place to commit my charitable dollars than in support of the current multi-faceted strategy. I encourage others to learn more about the campaign and support it as you see fit.”
Brian Patrick King ‘97, president of Father Judge, said, “I have had the privilege of knowing Pat for the last 15 years as a board member, finance committee member, mentor and friend. His continued and significant commitment of time, treasure and talent is a testament to his belief in the importance of education and his desire for Father Judge to grow and thrive. Pat has continued to instill in me the need to see resources gathered to support the school, but more importantly, to make sure they are best used to maximize impact for the institution and the donor. This gift will ensure that another 70 years of current and future Crusaders will have dynamic educational experiences to hone their God-given talents and reach their desired pathways in life. We are eternally grateful for his support.”
Campellone, president emeritus of Father Judge, said, “I know how happy and proud Mr. and Mrs. McGonigal are of their son, Pat. I have had the privilege of knowing Pat’s mother and father and his family. The McGonigals were a middle-class family that believed in faith and family. They worked hard to put all their children through Catholic school. Mr. and Mrs. McGonigal were great people who understood the importance of a Catholic education and loved their Church. Personally, I had the pleasure of growing up with Pat. He continues to live his parents’ legacy by helping people and giving back to others. He is the epitome of a Salesian gentleman.” ••
Buddy Holly tribute concert
Zachary Stevenson brings his Buddy Holly Tribute to the Philadelphia region for the first time on Sept. 14, at 2 p.m., at Sellersville Theater 1894.
Tickets are available at https://www.st94.com/events/oh-boys-buddy-holly-tribute/
The Buddy Holly Tribute one-act show will feature hits such as That’ll Be the Day, Peggy Sue, Oh Boy and Rave On.
Stevenson will be backed by Philadelphia psychedelic-rock trio Echo Kid as the Crickets. Echo Kid features Brendan McHale on bass, Christian Turzo on guitar and Kieran McCabe on drums. ••
Scientific symposium at Fox Chase
Fox Chase Cancer Center’s Center for Immunology will host its 14th Annual Scientific Symposium on Friday, Oct. 18. The event will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry being awarded for the discovery of ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation. Much of that work was done at Fox Chase. The symposium will be held in Fox Chase’s Leidy Auditorium and will feature presentations by eight scientists. For more information and to register for the event, email sarah.daly@fccc.edu. ••
St. Hubert run/walk
The St. Hubert Alumnae Association will hold a 5K run/1 Mile Family Fun Walk on Saturday, Sept. 28, in Pennypack Park, off 3135 Rhawn St. Virtual runs and walks will also be held from Sept. 15-28.
The fee is $30 if registered by Sept. 15. The cost is $15 for St. Hubert students and $10 for walkers ages 2-11. All who register by Sept. 15 will receive a T-shirt.
Registration from Sept. 16 to the day of the event is $35 and will include a shirt if supplies last. Registration on Sept. 28 begins at 7:30 a.m. The run starts at 8:30, followed by the walk at 9.
For more information, go to https://sthubertalumnae.org/reunions-and-events ••
