The Spirit of the Riverwards - January 25, 2017

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BUILT TO LAST How a truck driver built a toy empire.

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n the 1900 block of E. Venango Street, in the heart of Philadelphia’s Harrowgate neighborhood, a brick building shielded the evening sunrise from the southeast.

That building, the Harrowgate Boxing Club, has served the neighborhood as a nonprofit organization for more than four decades.

Now, after its owners lost a civil trial case to a former tenant, its future rests in the hands of the Pennsylvania’s Superior Court.

The case, which occurred at the Court of Common Pleas, is a simple one and revolves around the state’s Landlord Tenant Act of 1951. The dispute between plaintiff Charles “Diesel” Maguire and defendants Charles “Chalie” Sgrillo and John Gallagher, however, is anything but.

Maguire and Sgrillo both have storied histories in local boxing, training both top-notch fighters and kids from impoverished areas in the city.

Since late 2014, however, they’ve engaged in a tense legal battle featuring two longtime lawyers in the city: Geoffrey Gompers, representing Maguire, and Steve Marino, representing Sgrillo.

Back in July 2013, Sgrillo and Gallagher verbally agreed to lease out the second floor of Harrowgate Boxing Club to Maguire for $250 a month, according to a criminal complaint.

Gompers and Maguire claimed Sgrillo and Gallagher illegally locked MaContinued on Page 4.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Local events, meetings and more.

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nce a month Johnathen Wurzel posts on Facebook and puts up fliers to prepare for a meeting of individuals who are both Christian and Queer. Spiritual InQueery, as it is called, has met on the last Tuesday of every month at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Atonement (1542 E Montgomery Ave.) in Fishtown since Spring 2016. The meetings strive to preach a different interpretation of what we are told the Bible says about the LGBTQ community so that the two societal polar opposites will start to come together.

Wurzel, as a queer and transgendered Christian, has always dealt with a tug of war between his faith and gender identities. He compares it to having two hats, but only being able to wear one at a time. Equally and overall, they are a constant reminder of Christianity’s rejection of the

LGBTQ community, as well as the LGBTQ individuals’ scarred relationship with faith. Wurzel, who is now in the seminary, decided he wanted to do something about it.

But, if the attendance at the meetings is a telling factor, Fishtown, and Philadelphia in general, may not be ready to bridge that divide between sexual orientation and religion. When asked how well the past couple of meetings had went in mid-November, Wurzel, organizer and leader of Spiritual InQueery, simply said, “Dead. Absolutely dead.”

“Just thinking quickly, the common denominator in reaching a reconciliation there's wanting to or seeking some sort of answer about that Continued on Page 6.

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 THE

local lens

BY THOM NICKELS

W

hile in the neighborhood of 12th and Locust Streets recently, I came across an old building that used to be one of the city’s quirkiest restaurants. It also sold the worst coffee I had ever had in my life. Imagine coffee that sits burning up in pot all day long, so stale and strong that it stays with you all day long.

The coffee problem, I think, can be explained because the restaurant’s name was Polly’s Spinning Wheel Restaurant, or Polly’s Tea Room. The luncheonette had a large-scale tea kettle over its exterior window — in old photographs of 12th and 13th and Locust Streets you can see Polly’s gigantic tea kettle looming over the sidewalk. I’m not sure when Polly’s opened for business, but it could have been in the 1950s. The place was a Philadelphia institution on the order of Pat’s Steaks or Geno’s.

Polly’s unusual attraction was that all customers got their tea leaves or Tarot cards read after they completed their meal. There were three or four readers in the eatery at any given time and customers waited up to an hour to get a reading.

I first went to Polly’s with a friend of mine, Sherry. She was obsessed with a talented reader there who seemed to give her accurate answers concerning her love life. Before I went to Polly’s myself, I had always assumed that the customers there were slightly cracked. They certainly were not foodies.

The food at Polly’s was far from great, but it was adequate.

We often ordered a chicken entrée and coffee. The rubbery chicken made me think of a bad Three Stooges movie; the meatloaf was bricklike and the mashed potatoes were hard and cold like a soupy salt marsh in Cape May. When you ordered a pie, the crust was usually stale or hard.

The clientele was interesting. The majority of the customers were odd-looking women in small “church” hats.

Younger, professional women began to frequent the place when the Philadelphia Inquirer did a feature on Polly’s.

Male customers were far less numerous, but when men came they came in groups of two or three, probably for emotional support.

Polly’s wait staff was made up of older women who had once worked at Horn and Hardart’s on Broad Street. Some of these ladies wore hair nets and called you “hon.” All you heard there was the ching-a-ling sound of the doorbell whenever anyone entered or left. I felt as if I had walked through time into Dickens’ London every time I sat down at Polly’s.

The bad coffee at Polly’s got me thinking about the coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts (or Café Dunkin’) on Aramingo Avenue.

Café Dunkin’, as all locals know, is a funky place. While it might not be the best café in the world, it will do when you want something close to home. It’s cheap, it’s real and it is about as unpretentious as you can get.

Compared to the café I visit when I am in Center City, Square One Coffee, Café Dunkin’ is not a café at all.

Square One Coffee is a specialty coffeeshop near 13th and Spruce Streets. People park themselves there for hours.

Square One is not representative of the general population because it attracts students with laptops, so most of the time it feels like an extension of a college cafeteria. Adults who are not students rarely go there because having 30 laptops in your face can be blinding. You’ll never spot a homeless person in Square One. Ditto for screaming kids or Comcast workers dressed in overalls. One good thing about Square One, though, is that the second cup of coffee is free.

and Girard, probably the least attractive McDonald’s in the city, where I order the fish fillet and fries meal. McDonald’s is certainly better than the after-hours pandemonium one encounters in the 7/11 across the street, but junk food is junk food.

My last visit to McDonald’s was a couple of weeks ago while waiting for the 15 shuttle bus. I was seated not far from a man who was seated behind a woman and her small son. The woman’s son had very thick eyeglasses, which gave him a Dr. Peabody look. It was apparent to me that most of the McDonald’s staff knew the kid because they all took turns hugging him. While eating my sandwich, I heard the man tell the woman how beautiful she was. He kept repeating the compliment, but was then quick to tell the woman that he wasn’t trying to pick her up. Instead, he explained that his compliment was for the “greater good” and that “the universe” was telling him to tell her that she was beautiful.

The man piled on more compliments and then he honed in on Dr. Peabody, who was happily munching on fries.

“Hey, you have cornrow hair,” the man announced.

“Cornrow, wow! Don’t get me wrong. That’s not bad. Look at me, I can’t do cornrows in my hair — look at it… but you can and that’s beautiful.”

The zany exchange reminded me somewhat of a recent Café Dunkin experience with Steve Janas, a filmmaker with the Discovery Channel, who has also worked with actor James Franco’s Rabbit Bandini Productions. Janas was there with his camera cohort Joshua Staub and the three of us were happily munching when a pleasant homeless guy who frequents the area walked up to our table.

I’ll call the homeless guy Jethro, only because he likes to wear a Peruvian-style knit hat with knitted braids that sort of curl down on his shoulders. Jethro actually resembled a neighborhood millennial, not someone who’s always walking back and forth into the deeper pockets of Kensington.

I’ve given Jethro money in the past, but today was not his day. Apparently he had done something to win the disfavor of management, because no sooner had he said hello to us than he was told to get out. What he did days or months ago to warrant getting kicked out is anybody’s guess, but rules are rules. Meeting Jethro, you’d never know that he was capable of anything bad except laying on a lot of charm for handouts.

After Jethro’s exit — he survived walking across dangerous Aramingo Avenue — I thought of all the other cafes that I have yet to visit. One of them is The River Wards Café on Richmond Street. I met the chief designer of this café on the 15 shuttle months before the café opened and was promised an invite to the opening, but that never hap-

THOM NICKELS IS A PHILADELPHIA BASED AUTHOR, JOURNALIST, POET, FILM CRITIC & FEATURE WRITER FOR SPIRIT NEWS.

pened.

For me, a café has to be accessible, and that’s why Café Dunkin’, with all its glaring imperfections, usually does the job. It also happens to be the place where I can connect with neighbors who would never go to a Square One Coffee or the River Wards Café — neighbors like Maria, who is fond of corn muffins and Café Dunkin’s tuna fish croissant.

Maria likes to tell me how the tuna fish has a tranquilizing component to it because after eating it, all she wants to do is sit there and meditate. Friends tell me to be careful about eating tuna because of its high mercury content, but when you love tuna, what can you do?

Maria also has some weird theories about Café Dunkin’s donuts and muffins. For instance, she likes to say how sprinkle donuts have been known to cause hallucinations. Perhaps we better not go here because I don’t want to give weight to the theory that Café Dunkin’ managers are part of the Illuminati who participate in strange nighttime ceremonies when the place is bereft of customers. •

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 S E V E N D AY F O R E C A S T F O R T H E R I V E R WA R D S

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A

h, this pathetic winter continues as we averaged around 10 degrees above normal last week. Winter has waltzed away to the cheering of the warm-lovers, but the dismay of the snow-lovers. The season returns this week: It’s not going to be super-duper cold, but it is going to feel like winter (30s by day, 20s by night).

I am on the lookout for snow, but at the moment I don’t see anything legitimate brewing. Of course that can change in a flash, so I’ll keep you updated as the week progresses. A storm tries to develop on Monday, but the setup is awful. It looks like the general pattern of “warm

and wet, cold and dry” will continue until the end of the month.

Wednesday is the warmest day of the week. Temperatures spike ahead of the cold front that will return us to more seasonal temperatures. Clouds will also increase later in the day.

Thursday starts off wet as the front brings showers through the region. It will also be windy behind the front and turn noticeably colder with temperatures dropping through the 40s.

Friday is a cool day, but it won’t be brutally cold. Temperatures climb to just above 40.

Saturday and Sunday are both cold days. Temperatures will not leave the 30s during the day and will fall into the middle 20s at night.

Monday continues the cooler weather, but with clouds and the chance for a snow shower. Temperatures hover in the 30s. There’s a small chance this develops into a storm, but don’t count on it.

The cold air relaxes on Tuesday ahead of a fresh shot of cold air ready to settle in for the following week!

It’s going to snow again this winter, but the chances of it happening this week are small. As always, keep up with my daily updates online for more. •

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017

Continued from Page 1. guire out, a violation of the Landlord Tenant Act of 1951.

When Maguire failed to pay his $500 rent (it doubled since another tenant had moved out), he was not given 30 days’ notice, according to the complaint.

Last March, a civil trial jury deemed the plaintiff right, and awarded McGuire around $106,000 for punitive damages because of lost potential revenue, court records show.

Marino has since filed an appeal to the state’s Superior Court, claiming a mistrial for multiple reasons. One of those was the court failed to acknowledge Harrowgate Boxing as a nonprofit organization, which would mean Sgrillo and Gallagher cannot be held liable for civil damages, under state statute § 8332.1.

“That law we cite provides immunity to charitable sporting organizations,” Marino said.

Maguire, however, contends that the jury was right in its ruling.

“We’ve said our case in front of a court of law… they lost the suit and broke the law,” he said.

The trial itself — conducted over a nine-day period last March — was an eventful one, both Gompers and Marino said. Court transcripts obtained by Spirit News reveal points of contention outside of the lockout itself.

At one point during the trial, Gompers referred to a prior deposition of Sgrillo from March 2015, in which he asked him if he was “concerned with trying to follow the law” when evicting Maguire.

“Can I be honest with you? Fuck the law. Here’s the thing.

We are trying to do things for kids. This guy is coming in one stinking year and he's going to try to ruin everything for us,” Sgrillo answered in that deposition.

Marino contended that this line has been taken out of context and focusing on this one exchange is an injustice. “[Sgrillo and Gallagher] are not sophisticated in the law,” he said. “John decided to change the locks, which was wrong … but you have to look at the whole picture [of the trial].”

Another point of debate was a leaky roof that Maguire said he had to fix since moving into the second floor. Boxer Joey Dawejko, who was born in Philadelphia and used to train in Harrowgate, testified during the trial he saw Maguire drilling holes in the second floor, above an equipment room. He added he did not have any photos of the act.

This exchange was a microcosm of repairs Maguire claimed to have done on the second floor of Harrowgate, which included painting the walls, fixing windows and the boxing ring’s canvass, costing $15,000, according to the complaint.

Gompers also stated the leaky roof’s damage violated the warranty of habitability, a part of the state’s Landlord Tenant Act. Marino, however, said in his appeal that this only applies to residential leases and that Harrowgate Boxing Club is a commercial property.

“There was no evidence introduced during the course of trial that the 2nd floor boxing gym leasehold was anything but a commercial property,” the appeal stated.

Most recently, the Sheriff’s office was scheduled to act on a writ of execution on January 20, 2017, to collect the contents on the first floor of Harrowgate, in order to help pay for the $106,000 awarded to Maguire. Marino said that sale, however, was delayed and can be prevented because Sgrillo was lent items in the gym from the Veteran Boxers Association and other community organizations.

Last week, another writ of execution was levied on the building itself, which the sheriff’s office still needs to act on, he added.

Both Gompers and Marino complained about how the trial unfolded. Court records indicate both were interrupted

by Judge Ellen Ceisler several times during the trial. Ceisler was also critical of both attorneys, including how the trial exceeded an expected time frame.

“This is the first time in the eight and half years that I've been on the bench that I haven't brought my jury in the time frame that I promised, and gave it — so there's something wrong that happened with you folks, not me,” she stated at the end of the trial’s second day.

At another point, she stated that if either attorney interrupted her, it would be a $50 fine. Court records indicate that at one point, both were fined at the same time.

“The record needs to reflect — because the stenographer can't capture when all of you have been engaging in this unprofessional, childish, immature conduct, both of you,” she said when explaining the reason for the fines.

Now that an appeal has been filed, Marino said a decision from the Superior Court will probably take a couple months. Sgrillo said he hopes he can save his gym, because of its place in the community.

“I told [my co-workers] to come over to this gym anytime they want,” he said. “You’ll see how kids get together, stay together, work with each other, and try to help each other out. That’s what it’s all about, helping each other out.” •

Charles "Chalie" Sgrillo inside Harrowgate Boxing Club./Steve Bohnel

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 WRITTEN BY TIM MCCLOSKEY

Wrestling reunion

WRESTLING ALUMNI WILL HOLD THEIR ANNUAL NC WRESTLING HALL OF FAME REUNION

N

ortheast Catholic High School Wrestling Alumni will hold their annual NC Wrestling Hall of Fame reunion on Saturday, February 11 at the Harmonia Club (2404 Orthodox St.) at 3PM. The cost is $30 and includes food and drinks. The event will benefit a scholarship fund for current highschool wrestlers at the two Philadelphia Catholic League (PCL) high schools that are currently coached by North alumni: Archbishop Ryan and Father Judge.

Established in 1926, North was located at 1842 Torresdale Ave. and at one time had the largest student body of any Catholic boys’ high school in the world with over 6,000 students. In 2010, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia closed the school due to declining enrollment.

The wrestling team began in 1975 in earnest under Coach Pat Manzi and assistants Walt McIvain and John “Cutty” Cutsavage. The program grew organically under coaches who were former team members: Eddie Miranda ’77, Jerry Garzone ’78, Bill Hunter ’79, Jim Savage ’92 and Chris Cancelliere ’92.

The team had much to be proud of throughout the years.

North was the most successful wrestling program in the history of Philadelphia and still holds many league records: most team championships, most playoff appearances and league final appearances, and most Coach of the Year awards.

The team was a PCL powerhouse that dominated the league from 1991 until the school’s closing in 2010. They won a record 13 team championships and more than 100 individual championships. They made the playoffs for 22 consecutive seasons (1989 – 2010.) Many began wrestling at the Rizzo PAL Junior Falcons team at 2524 East Clearfield Street. The North wrestlers were particularly known for their toughness and fearlessness in a league that was earlier dominated by suburban schools such as LaSalle, Archbishop Wood and Bishop Egan. Many attribute this toughness to the neighborhoods from which they came: Kensington, Frankford, Port Richmond, Bridesburg,

Wissinoming and Fishtown “I learned everything at North Catholic,” said former UFC champion Eddie Alvarez ‘01.

“The North Catholic wrestling room is still one of the most arduous tasks I’ve done. They worked us so hard, it definitely was a big factor in helping my fight career. I’d say the sports I played, especially at North Catholic, taught me what I needed to become champion.”

North’s gymnasium, affectionately known as the Pit, was never a welcoming environment for opposing teams.

Many opponents still talk about the cross faces they were on the receiving end of, in the Pit. "Eddie Torres was a tough, tough kid - both mentally and physically," said Franny Scull, a Southwest Philly native and current Olde Richmond resident who wrestled at Saint Joe’s Prep, the University of Scranton and Team Fox-

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catcher in Delaware.

"He was strong and fast - lightning on his feet, added Scull."You knew if you drew Eddie's name in a tournament, you had your hands full."

North wrestlers have gone on to become Navy Seals, FBI agents, Secret Service agents and scores of Philadelphia firemen and police officers. They have coached at six other area schools and produced an NCAA Division I football coach and the aforementioned UFC champion, along with many business professionals.

This year’s inductees are: Coach John Cutsavage (19751986); Pat Healey ‘77; Eddie Torres ‘92; Juan Ruiz ‘99; Eric French ‘08.

Follow Tim McCloskey @timmmccloskey on Twitter. •

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Page 6 Continued from Page 1. as opposed to trying to crush one or the other,” Wurzel said. “I've been in the position before where I've reassured someone that they didn't have to do that. That's something people don't hear.”

Friends of Wurzel recognize his two identities and often ask if he’s “out” at church. His answer is always an unapologetic yes, and there is a reason for that. In conversation, Atonement’s “approach” towards Wurzel has been indifferent. He even goes so far as to call it “great”— at church, he’s just another face in the crowd.

It was Atonement’s embrace of the LGBTQ community that led Wurzel to start posting in forums to gauge interest in having starting up Spiritual InQueery. He quickly found out that there wasn’t a group out there like this in the area.

“The several people that I do know who are queer and Christian don’t have a place to just talk about it. So I was like, why don’t we make one?” Wurzel said.

Noah Helper, Pastor at Atonement, and the church’s congregation do not shy away from the LGBTQ community. In fact, the church take it several steps toward championing the community and the causes they believe in. For example, “Drag Bingo”, which started in 2014, is a revered and annual tradition. Drag queen host, Pearl E. Gates, who has acted in the past as the event’s emcee, and people from the church, many of whom are long-time residents of the neighborhood, pack up their rolly red Coleman coolers with alcohol and, not surprisingly, cheer “you bitch!” at the winner. Proceeds of Drag Bingo have gone to benefit those affected by the Orlando nightclub shooting along with other queer organizations.

“When we first started doing the Drag Bingo, I think it was our drag queen who asked, ‘How [is the church community] going to feel about me being around?’” Pastor Noah, who is openly gay, recalls. “I told him, ‘They don't care, and not in an apathetic way. They just don't need to figure out a policy to deal with you.’”

The lighthearted fun and success of Drag Bingo set the precedent that this church could handle a serious conversation about faith and sexuality, and opened up the possibilities for Spiritual InQueery. These monthly meetings takes place in the church and is split into two parts. First is the educational part, which is a bible study. Passages like the Sodom and Gomorrah narrative, known for its “man shall not lay with a man as he does a woman” passage and semi-apocalyptic ending, are broken down and examined.

That passage, as Wurzel interprets it, is actually about poor hospitality.

But there are more issues surrounding the Bible than just literal interpretation. “There are translation mistakes, there are people who will use these and take the English translation as the true translation. There are a lot of things in the Old and New Testament speaking out against general promiscuity, but nothing about homosexuality in particular,” he adds.

Wurzel continues. “People want to be informed about it. There are people who grew up here and it’s not even a matter of interpretation, they just heard wrong. They spent how long of their life struggling with that identity or identities and they want to know what's actually happening here or what’s actually being said.”

The second part of every Spiritual InQueery meeting is an open discussion either about the passage being studied, coming out to family or any other struggles centered around a Christian and/or Queer identity as it relates to everyday life.

“I think that's the other side of the reconciliation, saying ‘look it doesn't show up often in scripture, but here is a glimpse that maybe here we are right there.’ That, for me. is kind of the book ends — there's a whole lot in between on reconciliation,” Pastor Noah says.

In a landmark decision in 2009, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, which holds the highest level of authority in the church, held a Churchwide Assembly that addressed sexuality and released a social statement claiming that the ELCA is “united in opposing all forms of violence or discrimination and is committed to welcoming all people, regardless of sexual orientation, and their families into our congregations.”

The 2009 decision was not sweeping and all encompassing, however: Each individual church could (and can still) decide for themselves whether they wanted to follow these new, inclusive rules.

For Atonement, it was never a question whether they would accept the decision. “It caught everyone off-guard,” Pastor Noah said. “We moved from people who are homosexual and self-understanding, to gay and lesbian, to LGBTQ really fast.”

Since ___, Atonement has been a part of the Reconciling In Christ Program that helps allow Lutheran communities to publicly welcome But today, the question Pastor Noah and Wurzel keep asking themselves about Spiritual InQueery is “why isn’t this working?”

“We don't know if it’s because it's only monthly or if it's the wrong part of the month. I would imagine it's also us

The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 Johnathen Wurzel (left) and Pastor Noah (right)/Photos by Megan Matuzak

having to advertise it a little bit better, although we’re not certain that just broadcasting it on Facebook or the newspaper as an advertisement is the way to connect with the community,” Pastor Noah admitted. “It is that people seem to like that there's a place to do this, so we're trying to figure out where the disconnect is.”

In his experience, Wurzel has encountered more resistance from the queer community than the several different Christian churches he has been a part of across the United States in his adult life. More often than not, the LGBTQ community stands at the ready for the next inevitable attack on their personal choices. However, it’s not fair, or possible, to assume the entire LGBTQ community feels the same exact way about religion.

“I think Spiritual InQueery is part of the cycle breaking.

It’s saying, no, not all Christians,” Pastor Noah says.

Wurzel and Pastor Noah feel a conversation is being lost for all of those who don’t fit neatly in either corner. In order to have the conversation with audiences that belong in either group, they feel that Spiritual InQueery could give those questioning these identities the proper tools to open up the conversation. Including the passages and support to get past radical Christians, like The Westboro Baptist Church, and other skeptics critics and opinions.

“If somebody's ready to reconcile with that in themselves the sure, we will help with that,” Wurzel said. “I think that in a broader sense it’s important to reconcile — to break that cycle and equip people with the knowledge to do that.”

Wurzel has reached out to LGBTQ groups across the The space where Spiritual InQueery is held.

city to get the word out about Spiritual InQueery. These groups will identify that Spiritual InQueery exists, but will politely decline further involvement, he claims. The fact that the group meets in a church is also foreboding, as they have commonly stood as a physical reminder of rejection. While the pat on the back doesn’t go unnoticed, those who are queer and Christian, are.

“I think some of that is exhaustion, you don’t want to defend yourself for just being yourself. It’s not necessarily two identities you get to choose. You shouldn’t always have to be on the defense about that,” Wurzel said. “I also think fear is a part of that. I think people are afraid of a louder voice than theirs.

The louder voice in queer and Christian relations survives in the conversation focused on what the Bible has to say about all of it. According to Wurzel and Pastor Noah, this stems largely from the strict agendas of the church's people have grown up in. For them, who both experienced “conservative” churches in their early lives, they recognize that this is largely a societal issue. It also looks to be the biggest challenge for Spiritual InQueery.

“It’s like in Orwell’s book ‘1984’, the double think: You believe one thing but you have to believe out loud another one,” Pastor Noah said. “There are people who wrestle with that and they have to create their own space to figure out how to participate in this identity and also have this other one I’ve been told conflict. We have to double think but you don’t have to do that here.” •

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 WRITTEN BY SEAN BARRETT

Built to Last HOW A FISHTOWN TRUCK DRIVER BUILT A TOY EMPIRE

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n a repurposed standalone garage at the corner of Almond and Letterly Streets, antique and almost-antique toys of all sorts line the walls in towers, stacks, and piles leaving little elbow-room as golden oldies waft through the air. The corner is stuffed to bursting with video games ranging in newness from Xbox 360 to Atari, with some of the older systems still in their original box through a process I have to assume involves time travel.

A sign above the garage reads J&J Video Games in a retro, pixelated font.

At the helm of this decade-spanning fun-collage is unlikely suspect John Hagan, a former truck driver born and raised in Fishtown for all his 50+ years. He is gruff, relatable and does not wear a colorful tuxedo or break out into song at any point during our conversation, which takes place next to a broken NES system he has gutted and turned into a lamp.

Though he opened this location in 2010, that is far from when he started acting as a merchant in the toy trade.

“Down on the corner there, my friend owned a bar. When he passed away I took over the building and made it into a store. Then the yard in the back of my house, which I put walls and a roof on, had a little store, but that was too small. I wound up buying one of these garages and just opened it up here.”

But Hagan’s collection really started during his childhood in the sixties. “I’ve always collected toys, always.

When I was a kid, I liked G.I. Joes, stuff like that. I had all that stuff. It was always made better, looked nicer. Even my grandson, he’s only five, knows the difference between the old stuff and the new stuff.”

Years upon years of scouring yard sales, thrift stores, flea markets, and eBay keep J&J Video Games fully stocked and then some in everything from Flash Gordon playsets to endorsed checks in frames from each of the dead Beatles. His own home, he assures us, is much, much worse.

“I have so much stuff over there it isn’t funny. Entire basement from the floor to ceiling is boxes. I’ve got a little pathway to get through. My wife says ‘You ain't got no room for stuff’. You can’t pass up a deal though. Somebody comes along with something, you buy it.”

When his sons came into being in the late 80s and early 90s, they would end up helping to expand his repertoire, bringing him into the second half of the second half of the 20th century with video games of every stripe. At first he was buying them Nintendo games and consoles as presents. It wasn’t long before his experienced eye saw how this could fit into what was quickly evolving from a hobby into a career. Now that his store includes, among others, Ataris, Genesises (Genesi?), Nintendos, with used and

still in the box versions of each, his now-grown sons act as consultants. “If I don’t know something or somebody John Hagan showing off a sweet Game Boy Adcomes in with a bunch of games, he’ll say ‘Send a picture’ vance./Photos by Natalie Piserchio and he’ll look at them, appraise them, y’know. He’s pretty fair with his prices too.”

For used cartridge systems, he doesn’t just move them, but takes the time to order parts and restore them. “Someone came in with a Nintendo and wanted fifty bucks. I said ‘I only sell ‘em for fifty.’ Not only that, I take them and I clean ‘em all up, then I put the new pins in them. I mean, the pins, they cost me 20 bucks alone, that’s usually what goes bad. I get a new set and I replace them. So I can’t pay him fifty, do all that, then sell it for fifty, and I can’t sell it for more than fifty, ‘cause that’s what I always sold it for.”

Now that he’s found his rhythm of operation, he is always passing things through his hands online, his physical store is open daily from noon to four, visitors of all ages come through, and he’s always keeping his eyes open for what he can put on the shelf next. In addition to everything from teddy bears to Elvis merch, John’s looking for “mainly anything nintendo, ‘cause that’s the only thing that’s selling right now.”

You can find J&J Video Games at 2465 Almond St. They are open Monday-Sunday from 12-4PM. • WRITTEN BY CASEY ANN BECK

clean plate R E C I P E F O R S PAT C H C O C K R O A S T E D C H I C K E N

T

here are very few recipes more wholesome or comforting than a classic roasted chicken. It’s not fussy, is delicious without requiring advanced techniques, and can be used with whatever combination of herbs and spices you have on hand.

You’ll even find many versions that rely on salt and pepper alone to season the poultry skin. And, the price per pound is usually cheaper than other meats.

Typically, I rely on my slow cooker to do most of the work. After a full day of cooking while I do other things, my chicken is tender and juicy and there’s very little mess to clean up. One major factor missing, though, is the tell-tale crispy, golden brown skin of a perfectly roasted chicken.

Once and for all, I’ve overcome any challenges roasted chicken might offer thanks to a technique called spatchcocking. Though it sounds like medieval torture or part of the 50 Shades of Grey plot, it’s a butchering method that entails remove the backbone of the poultry, opening it like a book, pressing down on the breastbone, and flattening the entire carcass before cooking. Grab a sharp pair of kitchen shears and give it a try; your perfectly browned, crispy chicken will be ready in half the time.

Spatchcock Roasted Chicken Inspired by Bon Appetit 1- 3 ½ to 4 lb. whole chicken Olive oil

Gravy 1 shallot, sliced 1 ½ cups white wine Sprigs of fresh herbs, like thyme, rosemary, or oregano 1 ½ cups chicken broth 2 tablespoons butter Salt and pepper, to taste Place a cast iron skillet or large saute pan in the oven and preheat to 500 degrees. On a clean work surface, turn chicken so that the back is exposed. With a sharp pair of kitchen shears, cut up along one side of the backbone, from the tail end to the neck. Repeat on the other side (reserve the backbone for another recipe, like chicken stock or soup). Fully open the carcass and turn over so that the breast side is up. Press down on the sternum, between the breasts to help flatten the chicken. Generously sprinkle with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Using a potholder to protect your hand, remove the hot pan from the oven and drizzle olive oil on the surface. Place the chicken breast side down, so that the skin is completely exposed to the hot pan surface. Top with a heavy pot to weigh it down (use aluminum foil to create a barrier between the chicken and the pot). Cook for approximately 35 minutes, until a meat thermometer reads 165 degrees when inserted into the thigh. Remove pan from oven, and place the chicken on a large serving platter or plate to rest. In the meantime, drain the grease from the pan and place it on the stove,

over medium high heat. Add the shallots and soften in the rest of the drippings. Stir in white wine and allow to boil down, for about two minutes. Whisk in the chicken broth, herbs and butter, bring to a boil, then remove from heat.

Spoon over the chicken or serve on the side. •

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 WRITTEN BY SPENCER HOMAN

Know Your History JOHN HEWSON AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

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olitical ideologies that went against the status quo, as well as the aid of Benjamin Franklin, brought John Hewson to Philadelphia. Once Hewson was here, he made the greatest textiles that the nation had ever seen until that point, and he also made friends with Revolutionary leader General George Washington.

John Hewson was born on August 5th, 1744 in England.

He was the son of Peter Hewson, a woolen draper in London. John Hewson was distantly related to a colonel during the English Civil War (1642-1651). Ironically, this colonel was also named John Hewson. Colonel Hewson not only supported Oliver Cromwell (leader of the Commonwealth after the king was dethroned), but also personally signed the execution papers for King Charles I that resulted in his beheading. With revolution in his blood, John Hewson (1744-1821) held strong republican political ideals that were frowned upon by King George III. Hewson’s family worried for his safety and urged him to leave the country.

John Hewson worked at Oliver & Talwin (a leading textile print work company in England) as a dryer and bleacher.

Hewson had four children between 1767 and 1773: John, Sarah, James and Mary. A relative to John Hewson, famous British doctor William Hewson, housed Benjamin Franklin while he was working as an agent for the American colonies in London in 1773. Seeing this as an opportunity for safety and opportunity (textiles in the colonies were not made as well and England), the Hewson’s asked Ben Franklin to take them back to Pennsylvania with him.

In September of 1773, Benjamin Franklin brought the Hewsons to Philadelphia.

Hewson brought along his work associate Nathaniel Norsgrove and about a dozen workers with him to start a textile-printing factory in Philadelphia. In 1774, Hewson set up his Calico Printing Factory in the same building that would one day become Dyott Bottle Works (Dyottville). By 1793, he expanded his rental land from what was originally only the northern side of Gunners Run to an area that spanned from Northern Liberties toward Kensington. His landlord was William Ball, the future founder of Port Richmond.

Hewson lived on Point-No-Point Road (later to become Point Road and then Richmond Street) near the beginning of Hewson Street (named after him). Hewson compared the quality of his work to the quality produced at Bromley Hall (where Oliver & Talwin is located), which attracted customers. As the first calico printer in the colonies, Hewson quickly earned fame from his handkerchiefs, printed coverlets and material that would be used to make dresses.

Hewson used wooden blocks to print on chintz fabrics.

He acquired a lot of his skill from his time at Oliver & Talwin, although there is “no evidence of woodblock printing at Bromley Hall,” so it is unclear how he gained this ability. Hewson printed with seven different colors, and his artistry has historians still considering him one of the finest craftsmen in textile printing history.

Shortly after delivering her fifth child, Mary Hewson, John’s wife, died. A year later, Hewson married a woman from New Jersey named Zibiah Smallwood (with whom he would have two children), whose brother was a lieutenant in the Patriot Army.

In 1775, General George Washington passed through Philadelphia to take command of the Continental Army in New England. Since his wife, Martha Ball Washington, had family in the area, they stayed on his property. The Washingtons stayed with William Ball, John Hewson’s landlord, who lived near Hewson and his Calico Printing Factory. Martha asked Hewson to sew an image of her husband sitting on a horse onto a handkerchief for her.

After the work was completed, Martha became a regular customer and visitor to John Hewson.

Hewson’s political ideology, connection through marriage to the Patriot Army and his friendship with the Washingtons influenced him to enroll in the First Republican Grenadiers in 1775. The group disbanded, so Hewson was commissioned as an officer of his company of men, and they attached themselves to the County Militia.

The British Army occupied Philadelphia in 1777, so Hewson fled to New Jersey to find safety since his wife was a native to the area. A local Tory, a loyalist to Britain during the Revolution, was offended that Hewson supported the rebellion after living in the colonies for only a few years.

This Tory gave Hewson’s description to the British Army and put a bounty on Hewson’s head. By the time the British Army ransacked Hewson’s property, he was already safely across the river with his family, printing machines, animals and other necessities, although he left many

things behind.

While in New Jersey, Hewson and his brother-in-law worked alongside other rebels patrolled the waters to help get provisions to the Americans and to prevent Tories from getting provisions to the British. After six months, Hewson was captured near the mouth of the Rancocas Creek, but the Tory who had put a bounty on Hewson had already fled the city. As a prisoner of war, Hewson spent time in the Walnut Street Prison before being transferred to New York. After being held captive for a year and a half, Hewson escaped New York and made his way to the shores of New Jersey at Sandy Hook on his way back to Philadelphia. Upon returning home, Hewson learned that his daughter, Catherine Washington (named after his mother and General George Washington), had passed away.

Hewson then became a captain in the war effort between 1780 and 1781. Also in 1780, Hewson petitioned the Supreme Executive Council of Northern Liberties of Pennsylvania to allow him to be a Vendue Master (an actioner or vendor) so he could make more money to support his wife and six children. The Council denied his petition, and Hewson had to work to restore his post-war business in other ways.

He was considered a local hero due to his patriotism and multiple daring escapes. On July 4th, 1788 the Grand Federal Procession honored the Hewson family by seating them in the center of the Manufactures Float. In 1790, Hewson was awarded a gold medal by the Manufacturing Society for the best example of calico printing in Pennsylvania. In order to promote consumers to buy American-made products, Hewson sent printed cotton to the Washingtons to make a dress in 1793. One can ascertain that Hewson’s business was successful again by the time he retired in 1810 when John Hewson Jr. took over the business.

John Hewson died on October 11th, 1821. He is buried in Palmer Cemetery, and his legacy is rich with patriotism, textile dominance and gallantry.

Information from this article comes from barbarabrackman.blogspot.com, findagrave.com, kennethwmilano.com, Amelia Peck’s “American Quilts and Coverlets” and Kimberly Wuffert’s “The Man of Many Vases: John Hewson, Calico Printer” on metmuseum.org, geni.com, Christopher Maddish’s “The Mysterious John Hewson” on Nava.org and nephillyhistory.com. •

WRITTEN BY STEVE BOHNEL

Zoning Update

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K & O A R C H I T E C T U R E S E E K I N G Z O N I N G VA R I A N C E S F O R T W O P L O T S I N T H E F I S H T O W N

ive minutes before the start of Tuesday night’s Fishtown Neighbors Association Meeting, people had already nearly filled the main meeting space in Fishtown Recreation Center.

Then, FNA Zoning Committee Chair Matt Karp delivered some news — the meeting would be slightly delayed, because the amount of residents filing into the room was long enough to exit the building.

When everyone had entered the meeting, about 100 Fishtown residents debated with architects and counsel of K&O Architecture about two proposals: a four-story single family house at 1357 E. Columbia Ave. and the other a two-structure complex at 1323-R East Montgomery Ave. Both proposals fail to meet zoning classifications, and must be approved for variances by the city’s Zoning Board of Adjustment before construction can be considered.

Residents, however, strongly opposed both projects.

For the E. Columbia project, 16 local votes—those who live within 500 feet of the proposal—evenly split the zoning variance. The total of the community and local vote was 67 yes, and 76 no. In the East Montgomery Avenue project, a local vote opposed by a count of 78 to 4. Including the community vote, the total tally was 32 votes yes, and 114 votes no.

Several issues arose from residents regarding both issues, ranging from parking to property density to overall safety for kids playing in the general vicinity of both lots.

Regarding the single-story house on Columbia, residents and developers discussed how much of a curb cut would w occur onto Belgrade Street or Columbia Avenue, thus deo termining parking space. s , “Of all the things Fishtown needs, the last thing we need s is losing another parking spot,” a resident said about the d space. Another complained about her car being hit twice t in the area because of the narrow streets. d The next project, on Montgomery, created even more , debate between residents and developers. K&O Architecs ture zoning lawyer Leo Mulvihill asked the crowd about - the flag lot near the address before his presentation of the s plan: “How many people knew about this lot was there?”

- Nearly every resident’s hand rose immediately. Mulvihill admitted he did not know about the lot, but then n informed residents that the connecting backroad, Wilt - Street, is not considered an official street by the city’s - Streets Department. r Community members criticized the plan and the devels opers for seeking to make a profit from the back lot. They , also questioned how trash would be collected since a truck s would not be able to pull into the alley from Montgomery.

Others complained that the new properties would possi-

d g , g e n e e

n ,

, o -

Page 9

The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017

bly be infringing on their property lines.

Mulvihill and K&O Architect Kevin O’Neill debated that because of the shape of the space and its RSA-5 zoning classification, the two-structure shape would be easiest to develop. Residents argued that the design was a mistake and the developers were only looking to turn a profit off it.

One of them was Rich Levins, 60, who lives on the 1300 block of E. Montgomery Avenue. He argued, like others, that land density was key.

“That kind of density would destroy the quality of life in the area,” he told the Spirit. “It will set a precedent to enable other people to start turning what is zoned single family homes into multiple units … the zoning code is there for the quality of life in the community.”

Mulvihill stated multiple times during the meeting that residents could reach out to him with any concerns.

“I’m not some out-of-town guy,” he told the audience.

“Knock on my window, and I’ll answer any questions.”

Karp, the FNA zoning chair, said he was impressed with the turnout, considering the weather and time of the meeting. Several times, he reminded residents to keep their questions zoning-related.

He was, however, happy with the debate.

“This is the only chance the residents get to talk to the developer directly,” Karp told the Spirit. “It’s good to allow it [non-zoning questions]… it’s always good to let them talk about the small issues, before the project actually happens, if it does happen.” •

Lawyer Leo Mulvihill explains the proposed development to a packed house at the Fishtown Rec./Steve Bohnel

Art Sphere Volunteers Transform Towey Recreation Center

Letter to the Editor Pa. Must Close Deadly Loophole

What happens when you bring together volunteers and give them buckets of paint and brushes? They transform the building! At Towey Recreation Center on MLK Day, January 16, 100 volunteers from all over Philadelphia came together to brighten the Center’s gym walls.

Formerly a dull, institutional color, the walls now shimmer with eye-popping blue and gold herringbone stars and stripes. Volunteers also cleaned up the playground of trash, brightened up playground equipment and repainted classroom walls that were marred by graffiti.

Art Sphere Inc., (ASI) a Philadelphia non-profit, brought together volunteers from ASI’s Board, the neighborhood, Towey staff and Advisory Council, Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church, Team Rubicon, Hussian School of Art and Power Corps. One volunteer said he felt “proud of his work” and that, “When people invest in their community, they become "invested" in their community.”

ASI has been bringing volunteers together to revital-

ize neighborhoods with park clean ups, mural painting projects and free toddler and afterschool art workshops since 1998. ASI uses art as a tool to empower individuals to take civic responsibility and restore Philadelphia neighborhoods so that communities can provide safe and nurturing environments for all of their residents.

The Towey Recreation Center is at 1832 N. Howard St. in Philadelphia. Come check it out! ASI’s next community event will be held on Saturday, January 30, 9 am-2 pm at the John Heinz Refuge National Wildlife Refuge, 8601 Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19153. The theme will be “Nature Through Art - Celebrating Ground Hog’s Day.” For more information about Art Sphere, please see www. artsphere.org, @artsphereinc. and www.facebook.com/ ArtSphereInc/ •

The recent shooting rampage at the Fort Lauderdale airport is the latest tragic example of the need to clear up Pennsylvania's law relating to involuntary mental health treatment and possessing firearms.

I have introduced legislation (H.B. 22) to resolve the current ambiguity in Pennsylvania law on involuntary mental health treatment and possessing guns. Under current law, people who have been involuntarily committed for mental health treatment are ineligible to possess a gun – unless the treatment ordered is on an outpatient basis.

I believe that, regardless of whether involuntary mental health treatment is inpatient or outpatient, people under these involuntary treatment orders should be barred from possessing a gun until the court determines that they are no longer a danger to themselves or other people.

The intent of my bill is to prevent or limit harm to family members, the general public and law enforcement officers, as well as preventing mentally ill people from causing serious bodily harm to themselves.

State Rep. Mike O'Brien 175th Legislative District Philadelphia

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 W R I T T E N B Y S H E A LY N K I L R O Y

the end is near

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M A D R E X S E T T O B E C O M E N E I G H B O R H O O D ' S F I R S T P O S T- A P O C A LY P T I C T H E M E D B A R

on’t worry, Fishtown. La Colombe doesn’t have to burn down and Frankford Avenue doesn’t need to be destroyed for you to get your post-apocalyptic fix. That feeling of decay and destruction from movies like “Mad Max” and video games like “Fallout” will be felt when walking into a new restaurant coming to the neighborhood.

The Fillmore is getting two new neighbors: Mad Rex, a post-apocalyptic-themed restaurant, and Urban EEL, a sports-themed upscale lounge. Both of these conceptual eateries will be located on the same block and have some form of virtual reality experiences and entertainment options when it opens to the public in the spring, according to Michael Johnigean, owner of the upcoming eateries.

According to Johnigean, Mad Rex will “look like the end of the world when you walk in,” referring to the cracked floors and planned display of gas masks.

The theme doesn’t stop with aesthetics. To conceive an accurate post-apocalyptic menu, Johnigean thought of the basics of what we use to cook our food, or lack thereof.

“It’s the end of the world; there’s no electricity or gas ranges,” Johnigean said.

To keep with this idea of no gas or electric ranges, Mad Rex customers will have the option of cooking meals on their own on 800-degree slabs of rock. But if diners don’t feel comfortable boiling water, let alone cooking on sediment, they’ll still be able to get an earthy taste with a pizza made in a clay oven that burns natural firewood. Either way, Johnigean claims the “food is going to be amazing.”

Oh, and the apocalypse spared the chefs, apparently: Johnigean says that Mad Rex will have an in-house pastry chef making sweets from scratch and a butcher cutting fresh meat. The chefs will work in a kitchen that’s enclosed in glass for customer viewing.

Meanwhile, EEL stands for “Entertainment Eatery Lounge,” but its meaning is fishy too. “There’ll be a 14 feet by eight feet tank with moray eels and tropical fish in the middle of the room,” said Johnigean. But according to

Johnigean, eel will not be on the menu.

In addition to acting as a full restaurant, Urban EEL will have five theatres for movies and presentations that will be available to rent. Urban EEL and Mad Rex plan to hold events a couple times a month as well. Both spaces are for all ages and are affordable, according to Johnigean.

Johnigean also believes that more stimulation is needed at restaurants — he believes people spend too much time on their phones while eating out. He wants to change that with an emerging technology that’s been getting quite a bit of buzz lately — virtual reality. “I want to change the way people experience eating,” said Johnigean.

A VR chamber will allow users to create an account to access what Johnigean calls a “cloud” of “hundreds of realities” through virtual-reality goggles at both Mad Rex and Urban EEL. The goggles will give “survivors” the “highest sensation” of virtual-reality experiences. “You’ll be able to go diving or go to Alaska,” Johnigean said.

For visitors of Urban EEL, a few rounds of virtual-reality golf can be played.

“This isn’t a restaurant where you’ll have to pay $50 a person,” said Johnigean. “It’ll be delicious, affordable and fun.”

If you want to see more detail concerning the interior of either eatery, you’ll have to wait for the sake of suspense.

According to Mad Rex’s website: Disclaimer: These photos are conceptual and final designs may vary. Because this is the first location of its kind, we're sorry to say the Mad Rex must maintain a bit of mystery. Prepare for a unique experience, full of surprise & excitement, as the Mad Rex will be something you have never seen before.

Johnigean says that Mad Rex and Urban EEL are only two of the many projects he’s working on in the city. He anticipates that Mad Rex and Urban EEL will be ready to open by the end of April or early May 2017.

Sounds like a post-apocalyptic dream come true. •

A giant eel tank will sit in the middle of the restaurant./Photo courtesy of Michael Johnigean

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 WRITTEN BY JACQUIE MAHON

Valerie Martinez

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MEET THE OPERATIONS MANAGER AT THE NORRIS SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD PROJECT

’m making my way across Norris Square in West Kensington, past the United Presbyterian Church banner proclaiming “Immigrants and Refugees Welcome,” around the towering oak tree on which is painted a Puerto Rican flag dating from the 1960s, and through the playground. I step into the foyer of the Norris Square Neighborhood Project (NSNP) and Valerie Martinez, her cap at a jaunty angle, steps forward. Valerie is operations manager at NSNP, and her roots run deep in the neighborhood. Her parents came separately from Puerto Rico and met in the Bronx, where she was born. In 1976, the family moved to the Norris Square neighborhood.

When Valerie was seven years old, her mother enrolled her in the NSNP. The organization’s mission is “to promote positive change through youth education, community leadership, green spaces, the arts, and celebration of Latino culture.”

Programs are designed to connect generations and show citizens of all ages how to be change-makers. After-school youth programs include Semillas del Futuro, which builds job and life skills (e.g. healthy eating, exercise) for 14- to 20-year-olds, and the Youth Advisory Council, which participates in NSNP planning and decision-making. The Raíces de Cambio (Roots of Change) year-round program employs kids part-time while teaching them about food justice and career paths.

Valerie gestures toward the square as we take seats in an art-filled room lined with paints, easels and assorted creative supplies. “It used to be known as Needle Park,” she said. Now there are benches, a playscape, basketball courts and—very recently—lighting. “My mom worked here at NSNP for 20 years,” Valerie says. “She invented all these art projects and organized fashion shows for the kids. She was known throughout the city for her creativity.”

Valerie had her first child at age 15; at the same time her mother, Neida, was pregnant with her brother. “My mother is my hero. The support she gave me then, and always, has made me a strong woman.” Valerie has two sons and a daughter who is becoming a Philadelphia police officer, and four grandchildren.

Valerie and her peers bloomed under the tutelage of NSNP counselors. “I mean, we were in tents! We went canoeing, whitewater rafting. That’s how I discovered my love of the outdoors. We had to pick a meditation tree and spend long periods meditating there. We’d set goals in the morning and discuss progress at day’s end.”

NSNP used to offer programs for elementary- and middle-school students, but now focuses on the older children. It’s harder to do these trips with high-schoolers; some have part-time jobs, but also they’re easily bored without electronics. The art programs are popular, however. “They come here to fulfill the Philadelphia high-school requirement for community service (30 hours/month).

We give them tools for self-expression and a space to be themselves.” I glance over at a row of McIntosh Apple computers and a rack of newly printed T-shirts. The kids also make candles, soaps, perfumed oils and lip balm— all project-based learning activities, which are required by many funders of after-school programs.

“Our kids call themselves the Misfits.” Valerie raises her thick, dark eyebrows for emphasis: “I tell them, ‘Be who

you are.’ In the end, they don’t want to leave.”

Valerie worked with children for 19 years in the Philadelphia school system as a supportive services assistant (SSA).

An SSA moves among schools, assigned where the need is greatest, often to special-needs classrooms. “It got hard,” she says softly, looking down at the table. “We had a sixth grader who was dying of cancer. He was able to spend six months with his peers, going to classes.” I mention that burnout is a hazard of some professions, for example emergency-room staff. Valerie nods. “A 12-year-old girl confided in me that her uncle was committing incest with her. She would only talk to me. That was difficult.”

When an NSNP position as assistant to the executive director opened up in 2010, Valerie pursued it. Within two months, she was operations manager. The organization’s six gardens have a special place in her heart. Iris Brown, the former garden and cultural coordinator for NSNP, was instrumental in starting the garden movement around Norris Square, first with Raices (meaning origin or root) in 1982, followed by a collection of garden spaces called Las Parcelas (the parcels) and others. They accentuate Puerto Rican culture and identity, with areas for pig roasts, dancing and crafts, and include a 1940s-style casita as a tribute to Brown. “Las Parcelas is my serenity in the city,” say Valerie. An African-themed garden called Colobo celebrates the African roots of Puerto Ricans and includes “story huts.” The original women activists now call themselves Grupo Motivos.

“You have to take ownership of what’s in your community,” says Valerie. “Here, we replaced trash-strewn vacant lots with beautiful green spaces, unique found objects, and hand-crafted wood furniture.” We have been strolling from garden to garden, and now I pause at a message painted on a planter near the NSNP center: “The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world.” Who could disagree with that? Those who seek common ground while celebrating the differences in our city’s great “melting pot”—amid racial, economic, political, and other tensions—are the true heroes in every community. •

Valerie Martinez/All photos by Jacquie Mahon

NSNP teenagers’ wonderful art.

Wall of Community Heroes, Las Parcelas

Story huts at Colobo Garden

Notice is hereby given that New Kensington Community Development Corporation, (Owner/Remediator) has submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Southeast Regional Office, an Act 2 Final Report to demonstrate attainment of the site-specific standard for a site known as the former Pathan Chemical site located at 425-447 Moyer Street, Philadelphia. The Remediator has indicated that the remediation measures taken have attained compliance with the site-specific cleanup standard established under the Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act.

This notice is made under the provision of the Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act, the Act of May 19, 1995, P.L. #4, No. 2.

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR N E W S @ S P I R I T N E W S . O R G • 1 4 2 8 E . S U S Q U E H A N N A AV E • 2 1 5 . 4 2 3 . 6 2 4 6

Reminder SKCP Neighborhood Advisory Sub-Committee (NAS) Elections are THIS Week Meet the Candidates Night When: Tuesday, January 24th from 6pm-7:30pm Where: The Finanta Building (1301 N 2nd Street) SKCP invites you to meet and greet the candidates running for election to our Neighborhood Advisory Sub-Committee (NAS). The event will feature speeches by the candidates, as well as a chance to ask questions during one on one or small group conversations. A phenomenal opportunity to get to know the candidates better before you cast your vote on Saturday.

Election Day! When: Saturday, January 28th from 11:30am-3:30pm Where: Ramonita de Rodriguez Library (600 W. Girard Avenue) Stop by the Ramonita de Rodriguez library between 11:30am and 3:30pm to cast your votes for the candidates you think are most qualified to join the NAS. Note: All voters must provide proof of address to be eligible to vote.

m e et ing s EKNA MONTHLY MEETINGS East Kensington Neighbors Association (EKNA) meets at 6:30PM on the third Monday of the month at Philadelphia Brewing Company (2440 Frankford Ave.). Topics will include: Committee Updates, including Zoning and Development; Committee Meeting Time. Not able to make our meeting in person but interested in joining via livestream? Email info@ekna.org for more information!

FNA MONTHLY MEETINGS Fishtown Neighbors Association (FNA) meets at 7PM on the third Wednesday of each month at Fishtown Rec Center, 1202 East Montgomery Avenue.

HCA MONTHLY MEETINGS Harrowgate Civic Association (HCA) usually meets at 6:30PM on the first Thursday of each month at Heitzman Recreation Center, 3631 Amber Street. However, this month's meeting is on ORCA MONTHLY MEETINGS Old Richmond Civic Association (ORCA) meets at 7:30PM on the fourth Tuesday of each month at Cione Rec Center, 2600 Aramingo Avenue.

PROPAC MONTHLY MEETINGS Port Richmond on Patrol and Civic (PROPAC) meets at 7PM on the first Wednesday of each month at Columbia Social Club, 3529 Almond Street. Next meeting: February 1.

SNBL MONTHLY MEETINGS Somerset Neighbors for Better Living (SNBL) meets at 6:30PM on the first Monday of each month. This month's meeting is on Monday, January 9. Meetings alternate between two locations. This month's meeting is at Rock Ministries, 2755 Kensington Avenue. The February 6 meeting is at Firm Hope Baptist Church, 2313 East Auburn Street.

NKCDC OPEN OFFICE HOURS NKCDC is hosting open office hours in the 19134 zip code at two locations. They will be at the Firm Hope Baptist Church on Tulip and Auburn Streets every second Wednesday of the month from 4-7PM. They will assist you with signing up for benefits like SNAP, connecting to housing counselors for any housing needs, rent and property tax rebates, food referrals, health insurance and safety or quality of life issues in your community.

For further information contact Tess at tdonie@NKCDC.org

or 215-427-0350 x 139.

AL-ANON AT HOLY NAME CHURCH HALL Meetings are held every Monday night from 7-8PM at Holy Name Church Hall at 701 Gaul Street. Anything shared at a meeting stays there and everyone is welcome to attend.

Al-Anon meetings are free, anonymous and confidential.

NETWORKING MEETINGS Philadelphia Mastermind Group – Every Friday, 8-9:30AM, B2B Networking at Front Street Café (1253 N Front St.) HAPCO/DIG/GPAR – 2nd Thursday of the Month, 12:001:30PM. Lunch & Learn, real estate meetup at the Greater Philadelphia Association of realtors (341 North Delaware Avenue, Suite 200) DIG/HAPCO – 3rd Wednesday of the Month, 6:30-8:30PM. Philly Riverwards Sub-Group, Diversified Investors Groups meet up at Front Street Café (1253 N Front St.) For more information contact Joe Scorese 215-290-5108 or jscorese@firstrust.com.

events Saturday, January 28, 11:30AM-3:30PM SKCP ELECTION DAY When: Where: Ramonita de Rodriguez Library Stop by the Ramonita de Rodriguez library (600 W. Girard Avenue) between 11:30am and 3:30pm to cast your votes for the candidates you think are most qualified to join the SKCP Neighborhood Advisory Sub-Committee (NAS).

Note: All voters must provide proof of address to be eligible to vote.

Saturday, January 28 FRIENDS OF MDG DESIGNER BAG BINGO MDG Church Hall located at 2918 E. Thompson St. Tickets are $30.00 each. There will be more than 10 chances to win!! Doors open at 6pm and games will begin at 7PM. For more information and/or to purchase tickets please contact Frank Valentino at 267-408-4926, Chrissy Yancer at 267688-9470 or Joe/Claire Briscella at 215-680-1870.

Saturday, January 28, 4-6PM FREE COMMUNITY DINNER Join First Presbyterian Church (418 East Girard Ave.) for our community dinner. At our community dinners, we open our doors and welcome every and anyone who wants to come out for a meal and be in fellowship with their fellow neighbors. As always, there is no cost for the meal. We want everyone to feel welcome.

For more information contact: office@1stpresbykensington. org or 215-739-5695.

January 28 & 29 ART STAR CRAP BAZAAR On Saturday, January 28th from 11-7PM and Sunday, January 29th from 12-6PM at Art Star (623 N. 2nd St.) A "Seconds" Sale in Art Star's gallery space. One offs, samples, and pieces that didn't quite make the cut - all hugely discounted. 25 percent of profits donated to the ACLU of PA Free to attend, open to the public. Participating Artists: Kasie Lyn Jewelry, Le Puppet Regime, Popped Stitches, Stanley Chester & Albert, and West Oak Design.

Sunday, January 29, Noon FAMILY BINGO Bring the kids! Bring the neighbors! Sunday, January 29th Family Bingo benefiting Saint Laurentius School. Win Great Prizes! Fantastic raffles! Refreshments will be sold.

Doors open at Noon. Games begin at 12:30 in Holy Name of Jesus Church Hall. Tickets $12 in advance/$15 at door.

For tickets call 215-423-8834 or email dgriffith@stlaurentius.org Sunday, January 29, 10-1PM REPAIR FAIR #11 - PLAYARTS PlayArts (1241 N. Front St. - Rear Entrance on Lee St.) The public is welcome to bring anything broken (please enter at PlayArts’ rear door on North Lee Street). Our talented Fixers will be there to help teach repair and troubleshooting. Save your possessions from the landfill or replacement! PlayArts offers child-centered arts and play in a parent-friendly space. Broken toys and kids who like to learn are welcome!

Saturday, February 4, noon

Annual General Thaddeus Kosciuszko Tribute Ceremony The Polish American Congress, Eastern PA District, in conjunction with the Polish American Cultural Center Museum, extends an invitation to everyone to attend the Annual General Thaddeus Kosciuszko Tribute Ceremony, honoring American Revolutionary War Hero and designer of the fortifications at West Point, the site Of America’s Military Academy. This year the public ceremony, which will take Place at the Kosciuszko House, 3rd and Pine Streets in historic Philadelphia, on Saturday, February 4, 2017, at noon, will mark the 271st Anniversary of Kosciuszko’s birth and the 200th Anniversary of his death.

Immediately following the Tribute Ceremony there will be a luncheon in the Polish American Cultural Center Museum, 308 Walnut Street in historic Philadelphia.

For additional information or luncheon reservations, call Theresa Romanowski at 215-739-3408 or 215-813-2780.

Saturday, February 4, 2-4PM ST. LAURENTIUS SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE St. Laurentius School is hosting an open house for current and prospective families. Come meet our amazing teachers and tour the classrooms and facilities. Members of our Student Council and other 8th graders will be on hand to give tours. Each classroom will feature student work, and parents will have the opportunity to speak with teachers one on one. Principal Mrs. Elaine McKnight will be there to personally greet everyone. Can't make it to the Open House? - Individual tours of the school are also available by appointment.

Call 215.423.8834 or visit www.stlaurentius.org for more information."

Saturday, February 4, 3-6PM ST. PETER'S SCHOOL 7TH GRADE STUDENT ARTISTS RECEPTION In honor of Black History Month, the Resource Exchange (1701 N 2nd St) is featuring work inspired by African artwork, created by 7th grade students of St. Peter’s School.

Marie Darling, their teacher and Director of the Arts at the school, took the students to The Philadelphia Museum of Art to see Creative Africa, an exhibit of African art that included Kente Cloth textiles and artifacts from the Penn Museum. Their beautiful work, printed on reclaimed fabrics sourced from The Resource Exchange, will be on display in our gallery throughout February.

Join us for an Artist Reception February 4th to celebrate their work! Website here: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1728985764009927/ Sunday, February 12, 1-5PM WINTERFEST IN NORTHERN LIBERTIES Time to get your tickets for this great party hosted by NLNA at North Bowl (909 N 2nd St.) Buy tickets in advance at nlna.org. Adult $15 (advance), $20. at the door.

Seniors and Kids 13-17 $10. Kids 12 and under are free.

Tickets are also available at the Community Center (700 N 3rd St) M-F 10AM-1PM and W 6-9PM. Bring the family for great food, drinks, raffles and bowling. Our amazing neighborhood establishments have donated generously to make this bash our best fundraiser. Join the fun and help us celebrate.

February 18, 2:00PM RAIN CHECK WORKSHOP PWD’s Rain Check Workshop gives residents an opportunity to reduce pollution that would otherwise end of in our creeks and rivers. Come to this workshop to learn how you can get a free rain barrel from PWD! Reduced pricing for downspout planters, rain gardens, depaving, and permeable pavers will also be offered.

Please register at www.phillywatersheds.org/raincheck or Maryann Parisno Heffron It seems like a lifetime since you’ve been gone. It’s hard to believe that for 23 years I would drive up Gaul Street and stop for a minute outside of you house, hoping I would see you walk out of your door one more time.

You will be forever missed.

Happy Birthday, 12-28-16 F.J.K.

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 call PHS at 215-988-1698.

Friday, February 24th, 6:45PM PALLET PAINT NIGHT Yes you can create beautiful, fun artwork! Join us on Friday, February 24th to create a Masterpiece! BYOB & BYOSnacks, (Coffee, tea, water & dessert served). Tickets are $40. Space is very limited so reserve your spot ASAP! Doors at St. Laurentius Gym will open at 6:15 Instruction starts at 6:45.

For tickets call 215-423-8834 or email dgriffith@stlaurentius.org Third Mondays LOST PARENTS & FAMILY MEMBER SUPPORT GROUP December’s meeting will be December 12th at Cione Rec Center (Aramingo and Lehigh Ave.). For anyone who is suffering the loss of a loved one, a friend, whoever, is welcome.

3rd and 4th Tuesday of Every Month, 6:30PM-8:30PM WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE CLASSES Fishtown Recreation Center is hosting a Women’s Self Defense class 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM on the 3rd and 4th Tuesdays of each month for $10 per class starting 11/15/16.

You can register in person at the Rec on weekdays 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM or on Saturdays 9:00 PM to 12:00 noon.

Last Tuesday of every month, 7PM SPIRITUAL INQUEERY A safe space to explore and study the intersection of faith and sexuality for LGBTQIA+ Christians and Inquirers.

Come share, listen, learn, and find community support in navigating the trials and tribulations of this life. We meet on the last Tuesday of every month at 1542 E. Montgomery Ave. Wednesdays, 6PM YOGA AT TOWEY REC Roots2Rise will hold yoga classes at Towey Rec (1829 N. Howard St.). Cost is $5 per class. Participants must bring a mat For more info, visit roots2rise.com Wednesdays, 6 to 7PM WEDNESDAY EVENING CLEAN-UPS IN EAST KENSINGTON At Huntingdon Emerald (Huntingdon & Emerald) and Arcadia Commons (Kern Street, Mid-Block). Join us each Wednesday evening for clean ups at two of our beloved neighborhood parks! Help keep our green spaces beautiful by supporting Arcadia Commons. Monthly board meetings, open to the public, take place on the third Thursday of each month at 2614 Amber Street.

Wednesdays, 7PM ST. ANNE’S CHURCH CHOIR St. Anne’s Church Choir is back with a new director, April Anderson, and assistant director, Rich Burns. We’ll be rehearsing on Wednesday evenings at 7PM at St. Anne’s Church (Lehigh and Memphis).

2nd Fridays, 7:15PM MOTHERHEART KIRTAN Welcoming everyone in the neighborhood to take part in MotherHeart Kirtan. Kirtan is the recitation of spiritual ideas through songs of devotion. Style is call and response singing of mantra and sounds. It is an easy, safe environment to experience group, harmony, healing, and community. Kirtan can be peaceful, uplifting, and ecstatic.

MotherHeart Studio (2359 E Susquehanna Ave.) Donation only.

Sundays, 12-4PM AMALGAM ADVENTURER’S LEAGUE Adventurers! Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse is now hosting Adventurers' League play on Sundays from noon to 4PM. Bring your level 1 character, or just yourself and our DM will have pre-gens, and join us as we begin the new season of Storm King's Thunder with the Great Upheaval adventure. New and experienced players welcome!

PORTSIDE ART CLASSES Make the season bright. Enroll in Stained Glass, Mosaics, Jewelry Making, or Upholstery and give the gift of a beautiful handmade work of art!

To learn more, please visit www.PortsideArtsCenter.org or call us at 215-427-1514 LUTHERAN SETTLEMENT HOUSE JOB READINESS CLASSES Lutheran Settlement House (1340 Frankford Ave.) is hosting a month worth of job readiness classes as part of the Pathways to Employment Program.

Welcome to PA CareerLink and JobGateway: February 6th, 13th, and 27th, from 10am-noon

Getting Your Resume Right: February 1st and the 15th, from 10am-noon. Interviewing Skills: February 8th and the 22nd, from 10am-noon Career Drop-in: Drop into our computer lab for assistance with your resume, cover letter, or online job application.

Every Thursday in February, from 1pm-4pm. NO APPOINTMENT REQUIRED! All the classes are free and are held at 1340 Frankford Avenue. Interested individuals can call 215-426-8610, Ext. 2006. Visit www.lsheducation.org or email for more info: pep@lutheransettlement.org

children CUB SCOUT PACK 500 Open to boys in K-5th grade. We meet every Thursday 7-8pm in the St Anne's Annex gymnasium at the corner of Memphis & Tucker. Scouts build projects, learn skills, help the community, and go on hikes and camping trips.

Feel free to stop by a den meeting and check it out.

For more information, email Den Leader Lisa at Pack500Fishtown@gmail.com PORT RICHMOND TIGERS Sign up now for indoor tot-basketball, girls and boys ages 3-6. Sign up at Tigers clubhouse (Chatham and Ann) Mondays thru Friday, 6:30-7:30 or call Tom Mack at 215-2758838. Season starts in January, so sign up now!

SIXERS NEIGHBORHOOD BASKETBALL LEAGUE Hancock Rec has more openings for players in their SNBL league held at Moffett Elementary School. For more information please contact Coach Larry @215-685-9877, or come to Moffett to register on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-6PM. FISHTOWN LIBRARY Tuesdays: Toddler Storytime: Join Miss Dana for stories, songs, and silliness! Tuesdays @ 10:30AM. For ages 0-3 ½ .

February 22, 6:00PM CREATE A SPICE BLEND This program is part of One Book One Philadelphia. Using the mathematical concept of ratios, explore ways to maximize flavor using spices and spice blends. Come ready to put your taste buds and culinary minds to the test. Participants will leave with their own spice blend to use at home!

Wednesday PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT RICHMOND LIBRARY This program is intended for children ages 1-4 and their caregiver. Siblings are always welcome. Daycares should call for separate appointments. Richmond Branch of the Free Library, 2987 Almond Street.

For further information call 215-685-9992.

Every Sunday morning, 10AM LET THE CHILDREN COME. Progressive, child-led Christian education for children ages 3-13. Storytelling (with ample time for wondering) with a focus on processing through art. All children and families welcome, regardless of religious affiliation. At Atonement Lutheran Church, 1542 E. Montgomery Ave.

seniors EXERCISE CLASSES FOR PEOPLE AGES 50+ Stay Healthy and Active with a variety of exercise classes at St. Anne’s Senior Center. Latin Rhythm on Mondays at 10:00am; Chair Yoga on Tuesdays at 9:30AM (excluding the 2nd Tuesday of each month;) Tai Chi on Wednesdays at 10:00AM; EnhanceFitness on Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30AM; St. Anne’s Senior Center (2607 E. Cumberland St.) For more info call 215-426-9799 CREATIVE ART CLASSES FOR PEOPLE 50+ The Clay Creations class meets weekly on Friday afternoons from 12:30 – 2:00pm. Learn about the art of hand building to create spectacular pots and other clay forms.

Creating with the Color Wheel on Tuesday afternoons from 12:30- 2:00PM. Participants will mix paint to create a color wheel and use this technique to create colorful paintings and eye-catching designs. Registration and material fees will be charged for these workshops. St. Anne’s Senior Center (2607 E. Cumberland St.) For more info call 215-426-9799 BINGO St. Anne’s Senior Community Center has bingo on Monday and Thursday afternoons. Bingo supplies are on sale starting at 11:00AM. Lunch will begin at 11:30AM. Bingo will begin at 12:30PM. Please make your meal reservation in advance to dine with us. Free parking is available. CCT Transportation is offered to members who are 65 years of

age or older. St. Anne’s Senior Center (2607 E. Cumberland St.) For more info call 215-426-9799 NUTRITION ASSISTANCE FOR SENIORS Did you know that if you are age 60 or older, or disabled and have low to modest income that you may be eligible for SNAP benefits? Snap is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps) and can provide assistance with purchase of groceries. If you are single and your income is less than $1962/month, or less than $2656/ month for a couple, you may qualify. There is no limit on how much a senior has in savings and checking accounts.

Don’t miss out on this important benefit for which you may be eligible!

For assistance in completing an application, contact the Social Service Coordinator at St. Anne’s Senior Center 215-4269799.

sign ups

BECOME A VOLUNTEER ADULT EDUCATION TUTOR Lutheran Settlement House (1340 Frankford Ave.) is seeking volunteer tutors. ​Tutoring hours are between 9AM -​ 7:30PM. Volunteers work with adult learners one-on-one or in small groups to help them meet their educational goals, including GED prep, basic math, basic literacy, and computer skills. Prior tutoring or teaching experience is helpful, but not required. Tutors are provided with curriculum materials, both physical and online, to use with learners. Tutors are asked to commit to 3-5 hours/week of tutoring for a minimum of 6 months.

For more information contact literacy@lutheransettlement. org or 215-426-8610 ext. 1242.

Friday, January 27 THE COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU New Kensington Neighborhood Advisory Subcommittee (NAS) is seeking members.

Come together with residents from the area to discuss community needs, brainstorm solutions, and share resources! The group will discuss safety, zoning, sustainability, or other issues that matter to you and your neighbors. As a NAS member you will serve a two-year term, beginning February 2017, and attend 10 monthly meetings per year. Candidates must live within the NAC area.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 27.

For more details call the NKCDC office at 215-427-0350 x125.

Applications can be picked up at NKCDC’s office at 2515 Frankford Ave. GIRL SCOUT TROOP AT GLAVIN PLAYGROUND Welcomes New Members. Meetings will start week of Sept. 19 at Glavin Playground (2600 E Westmoreland St.) with breakdown of age level meetings as follows: Brownies – 1st – 3rd Grade – 6:45 – 8:00 – Monday Nights; Daisies – K – 1st Grade – 6:05 – 7:00 – Tuesday Nights; Older girls – 6th – 12th Grade - 7:00 – 8-00 – Tuesday nights; Juniors – 4th – 6th Grade – 6:45 – 8:00 – Wednesday nights.

Information about registration and the troop management will be available from the troop leader at the meetings.

COHOCKSINK PLAYGROUND (2901 CEDAR ST.) Zumba is on tuesday nights from 7:30-8:30 with Ms. Jamie. Only $5 a class.

Yoga is on Wednesday nights from 7:15-8:15 with Ms. Amanda. Only $5 a class.

Both classes are held at Cohocksink Playground, 2901 Cedar St. Our phone number is 215-685-9884

Obituary Seislove, Helen M. (nee Kanagie) on January 17, 2017.

Devoted mother of Kelly Ann Rudolph (Steven) and the late Edward J. Seislove(Regina). Loving MomMom of Shannon Seislove, Edward Seislove, Christian Hartman, Paul Hartman, and Steven Rudolph. Cherished GG of Brian, Tommy, Bella, Chloe, and Carter.

Dear sister of Arthur Kanagie, Dorothy Price, Thomas Kanagie, and John Kanagie. Sadly missed by her nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to gather Friday January 27th 10am followed by her funeral mass 11am in Holy Name of Jesus Church 701 Gaul St. (at Berks) Phila, PA 19125 (Fishtown). In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to the Humane Society of the United States 1255 23rd street NW, Suite 450 Washington D.C. 20037 McElvarr Funeral Home

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 COMMUNITY

CLASSIFIEDS A D S @ S P I R I T N E W S . O R G • 1 4 2 8 E . S U S Q U E H A N N A AV E • 2 1 5 . 4 2 3 . 6 2 4 6

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1 4 2 8 E . S US QUE H AN N A AV E

We reserve the right to edit, refuse or classify any advertisement.

Advertising is a privilege which must be protected against misuse. All classified advertisements subject to pre-payment. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to check the advertisements each time it is published.

No responsibility is assumed by the newspaper for errors. Errors will be rectified by reinsertion in the following issue only.

215.423.6246 The deadline is Friday at 5pm for display ads, and Monday at 12pm for classifieds. All advertisements must be paid for in advance.

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The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017

YOUNG SCHOLARS CHARTER SCHOOL- REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

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If you get a phone call from someone you don’t know who is trying to sell you something you didn’t plan to buy, simply hang up the phone. If they pressure you to give out personal information, like your Social Security number or your credit card, it’s most likely a scam.

You can put your phone number on the National “Do Not Call” Registry to cut down on receiving unsolicited calls. Call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register. Just remember that scammers are unlikely to follow the Registry rules so you will need to stay on the alert.

Young Scholars Charter School has released RFPs for Internet Access and Voice services. Details are within the posted RFPs. Respondents must have an E-rate SPIN number and abide by the RFP directions. Complete responses must be received by 10:00 AM EST. on February 10, 2017. To review the RFPs or MTM services pricing quote requests, visit www.intelafunds.net, select “E-Rate”, “Bid Opportunities” and select the RFP/service quote requests documents posted for this school.

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Page 16

The Spirit of the Riverwards – January 25, 2017 WRITTEN BY SHARON ISABEL CURLEY

Spirit Astrology YOUR DOSE OF HYPERLOCAL SPIRITUAL ADVICE

Aries: Change is heavy, Aries. Whether it be in the form of a load of coins, or a transition in your life, carrying this sort of weight isn’t something you love to do. However, money is money in every form, and without life changes, we become boring, even to ourselves. It’s time for you to see this as a way to make things lighter for you. If you’re transitioning, see this as a time for you to set free your past and old ways, and welcome a future full of new ways to be.

Certainly you have control over this, but an Aries is also a rarely stagnant personality type. Get those pennies you’ve been saving and hit up a Coinstar, my friend, there’s an easy way to make that change lighter, too.

Taurus: Actor and comedian Tracy Morgan appeared on a few talk shows in 2007 where he was questionably under the influence. I’ve watched a few of these online with friends and we laughed because it was quite funny. I wonder if Morgan ever looks back on those episodes (like when he sat on one knee and exclaimed, “I did get this leg blown off in Vietnam!”) with feelings of embarrassment or regret? Perhaps you’ve got some moments in your past that felt brilliant at the time, but now leave you with mixed feelings? Take the road of looking on the bright side. You may not have been at your best, but you brought others joy.

Now is your chance to make such moves with more control while still keeping your audience happy.

Gemini: Whenever I get to writing the horoscope for Gemini the theme song from the cartoon “Jem and The Holograms” comes to mind. I remember their rival band coming into the song with their stance “But we’re the Misfits, our songs are better.” Growing up a little punk, I can’t help but think of The Misfits (Glenn Danzig version, not cartoon) and think to myself, “The Misfits songs are still better than anything!” Sure it’s a stretch, but the Gemini sign tries very hard to be the best. To have a rival is something you enjoy, just so you can do better. Keep up the good work. You can do better, so long as you keep trying.

These cold winter days will only bring you down if you let them. Abbreviate and misspell your sign to “Jem” and take the final words from the cartoon theme song into your coming weeks as a guide: “Jem is my name, no one else is the same. Jem!” Cancer: Sometimes, memory distorts itself. We can have a “clear” memory of something, yet we are entirely wrong about it. For example, two siblings, similar in age, can remember their childhood home quite differently. This sort of things can cause tension between two people when both feel certain in their ways. One sibling may remember five steps entering the front door and the other remembers six. Both could even have stories backing their belief. Yet, without a photo or a visit, neither memory will be proven correct. This type of discussion seems interesting, but also just plain stubborn. The Cancer loves to be right.

I say why not try something different and just allow someone else to be right, or at least to think they’re right on your behalf? It can ease the tension and make both parties feel good. It’s time to turn off your confabulation station and tune into someone else’s.

Leo: My favorite song by the English prog-rock band Caravan is called “In The Land Of Grey And Pink”. Lyrics aside, I spent my best day of 2017 so far in a land of grey and pink. Marching along the parkway during the Women’s March on Saturday, with grey skies and pink hats a-plenty, I felt more joy than that song has brought me hundreds of times over. The power within our city alone was exploding with positivity; and to think cities all over the world were marching, too, not just in our country. Leo is a powerful sign in her own right. I urge you to continue on with such power. If you have something you feel powerful about, go ahead and express yourself. If you’re an artist, start getting involved in Frankford Ave First Fridays. If you’re a record collector, go shopping at all the local record stores (there are many up in this ‘hood!) and become a DJ. Whatever you choose, if it’s the latter, pease buy the Caravan album which shares the song I mentioned as its title and invite me to your DJ night!

Virgo: When you turn 30, you don’t think you’re really going to continue making best friends. Don’t fool yourself, man! I met fellow Virgo Sue Eggen (of Giant Dwarf) when I was 31. She gave me a job, became a mentor of sorts, and is currently helping to guide me into my future in unimaginable ways. A Virgo can often be too wrapped up in their own big brains to allow others in. What is something you don’t know a lot about, but you’d like to learn more of?

Sure, we’ve got our grand old internet, but we also have a city full of like-minded people. In the next few weeks, someone will come along for you to cherish. Be sure you do because, if I know best, everyone deserves their own version of Sue. Libra: We are all aware that the Internet has changed the way we read. I remember reading “Fahrenheit 451” (by Ray Bradbury) in school, and thinking it so insane. Books were everything when I was growing up: They represented how I learned and how I spent my free time. As a kid, my dream job was to write novels. However, perhaps not quite outlawed, but certainly not popularly favored, books have been replaced by kindles and computers. Oh, but what about not just the words you read, but the smell of the paper and forgetting where you left off? Books seem so romanticised now, as a delicate thing of the past. I say, let’s bring them back in style! When was the last time you read a book? Has your attention span been cursed by technology? Perhaps head over to Ulises on Columbia Avenue and pick up a zine. Start small. Sit outside on a bench and enjoy reading, without having to also keep thinking about your battery running low. This could make way for the trends you’ll be setting this year.

Scorpio: I haven’t yet been to Weckerly’s, the new handmade ice cream shop on East Girard, yet, but I think about it almost daily. I keep telling myself, “today’s the day!” and then I forget until I remember again. It’s that sensual extrovert side of me who just travel hops through my day dreams. Is this sounding like you lately, Scorpio? Have you been putting things off lately? This isn’t quite like you. Maybe you haven’t even realized how much this is affecting you. Get to the source and find what’s holding you back. Don’t just lay there imagining what flavors of ice cream there are, what the cones taste like, what you’re in the mood for, and how you could be walking around enjoying lick after lick after lick. Maybe it’s as simple as tying your shoes and heading out the door. Whatever it is, call me when you figure it out and let’s go get some ice cream cones!

Sagittarius: Due to some epic life experiences, I am of the thought that “nothing is what it seems.” Not particularly let down often and not too sided with my Aquarian ways, I genuinely believe that due to our own personal massive subconsciousness and the sincere purity of our waking life, it’s difficult to acknowledge the truth in what something really is, when we ourselves are many within. Do not let this deter you from learning and believing in things,

but rather a guidance to beware. There is a song by The Smiths in which Morrissey sings, “There is a light and it never goes out.” Keep this as your motto during your future discouragements. You don’t have to thank me for this one, for “Well, the pleasure — the privilege is mine”.

Capricorn: Toward the end of 2012, I was feeling great. I had some time off from a movie I was working on and so I did a bit of traveling. My last stop was Los Angeles. Not just to see my angel, best friend, and brother Jesse Moynihan (a fellow Capricorn), but also to see if I’d like to live there in the future. As I was about to return home, I messed up my return flight date and was unable to fly back into Philadelphia due to Hurricane Sandy. To make matters worse, I had a job to return to in just five days. I took a train across the country to Chicago, at which point, there was only one car taking a group of elderly folks back East. I had one option: make friends with some old-head and pretend I was their caregiver and get my butt on that train. Lo and behold, the plan worked! The train ride home at night was better than a white noise machine, I slept through breathing tubes and snores! I arrived in Philly right when I was due. Capricorn, let’s get real. You love a challenge. You even go as far as to make them. So go ahead and learn how to fix them, too. Peaceful is as peaceful does, and there’s also always a calm after the storm…

Aquarius: I once got a fortune that read exactly: “Silence is a virtual. Especially Dinner time, from telemarketers.”

These words and their strange use of upper and lower case letters keep me thinking of this, nearly a year later. I wonder who wrote it and if they thought it was funny. I often tell others about it or show them the photo I took of it and I seem to be the most amused. Maybe I share the amusement only with the person who wrote it? It’s our little enjoyment, whoever we are to each other, which is otherwise nothing at all. Aquarians are loyal people, who can hold onto secrets for a long time, as if it’s our job. We tend to take pride in knowing something no one else does. I urge you to find something in you that you’ve been holding back sharing and open it to someone else. It’s a good time to let others in on your secrets.

Pisces: Mathematically, there is only one way for two to become one, and that is to take one away from two. Yet, in relationships two can become one in love. You’re the type of person who enjoys having a relationship, yet you struggle in them often. Only you can change that to make it how you want it. With the “blessing”, as it were, of all these new places popping up in our little community, you’ve got options to step out of your shell and try something new in more ways than one. If you’re in a relationship, suggest to your partner that you’d like to try somewhere new. Garage has great beer on tap and Wm. Mulherin’s Sons has a great happy hour. Take your baby out for a date to let them know their place in your lone little heart. If you’re single, try one of these places, and keep your eyes peeled. Eye candy is only edible if you take a bite! •