Philadelphia RowHome magazine Winter 2009

PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE

ROWHOME SPOTLIGHT DROPS OF JUNIPER VOLUME 7 ISSUE 17 2010

2009

BLUE SAPPHIRE AWARD WINNERS

ROTHMAN INSTITUTE

REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES WWW.GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

JAN/FEB/MARCH 2010 VOL 7_ISSUE 17_2010 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM $4.99 US

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VOLUME _7 ISSUE 17_ 2010 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

INSIDETHIS ISSUE 14_LIFE

84_FILM

Street Songs By Larry McMullen 17 Minutes By Bob Wagner Threads of Love By Linda Baldi

East Coast: A recipe for lemonade

By Sharon Pinkenson

Home Help for Seniors

by Donato Angelotti Photo by Hector Valentin

30_ROWHOME SPOTLIGHT Drops of Juniper: Designed to Shine Featuring Abitare Design Studio

By Maria Merlino Photos by Paul Loftland Contractors Spotlight Building Dreams: CRO Construction Co.

By Lauren Macaluso/Photos by Rebecca Savedow Wrought Iron Reigns: Anvil Iron Works

By Elise Bowder

50_BUSINESS

Jan/Feb/March 2010

West Coast: Filmmakers flock to Philly

By Leo Rossi

100_GREEN SPACE Up on the Roof

By Kerri-Lee Halkett Photos by Phil Kramer

108

108_FASHION

FASHION:

Sexy in the City by Felice Elan Written by Alicia DeLeo

114_WRITERS BLOCK La Casa Nostra by Gibby Palmaccio Written by Donato Angelotti Photos by Hector Valentin

PRH’s 2009 Blue Sapphire Award Winners Ray Didinger Cathy Gandolfo Sid Mark Ed Sabol Steve Sabol Michael Toklish

115_HEALTH

60_NEWS & POLITICS Cathy Gandolfo: A Plan of Action

By Maria Merlino Photo by Phil Kramer

Real People. Real Stories.

Four hips in two years

By Dorette Rota Jackson Photo by John McMullen

64_THE MENU

122_COMMUNITY SERVICE

Coffee Chronicles By Lauren Gordon Photos by Rebecca Savedow

Young America: Christmas from the Titan Heart

By Brian Sheehan

14

LIFE STREET SONGS

Penn Medicine Perelman is Center of attention for HUP

By Brian Hickey Photos by Phil Kramer

115

HEALTH

Rothman Institute

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74_MUSIC & THE ARTS

SPOTLIGHT

An Interview with Les Paul (1915 – 2009)

By Bob Wagner

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NEWS & POLITICS CATHY GANDOLFO ACTION NEWS

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VOLUME _7 ISSUE 17_ 2010 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

REGULARS

Jan/Feb/March 2010

6_FROM THE PUBLISHERS Got Balls?

10_MAILBOX RowHome Carol

12_NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR 28_HANGIN’ OUT

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48_ON THE BLOCK

BRIDAL NOIR

19148: A. Criniti Realty

90_THE BRIDES GUIDE Daddy’s Little Girl: Cescaphe pitches a tent

90

THE BRIDES GUIDE

92_BRIDAL NOIR 98_ON THE CORNER with Mark Casasanto Old Records

124_THE SCHOOLYARD

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History Marks

By Brett Jackson & Michael Rhoades

ON THE BLOCK

128_PRESSED Memories

By Dorette Rota Jackson

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NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR

ON THE COVER ROWHOME SPOTLIGHT 30_DROPS OF JUNIPER Abitare Design Studio’s Stephen Maffei turned this Juniper Street rowhome into a family treasure for Michael & Vicki Riverso. Details like this skylight at the top of their custom stairwell make this home a memorable one.

By Maria Merlino Photos by Paul Loftland

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Dr. Cohen and Staff are dedicated to addressing all of your orthodontic needs.

We are committed to staying current with the latest technology and advances in orthodontics. Everyone in our office understands that each patient presents with different needs and expectations and we do our best to address them in a professional and compassionate manner. Since the beauty of your smile is a direct reflection on the doctor, in our office the doctor himself performs all of the “wire bending� and cementing of appliances. We feel strongly that this delivers the highest quality of orthodontic care possible. You will appreciate our level of commitment to achieve the finest result possible.

VOLUME _7 ISSUE 17_ 2010 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

FROMTHE PUBLISHERS

got balls?

Pastificio Homemade Pasta Co. Since 2004 1528 Packer Avenue 215.467.1111 PastificioPhilly.com 6

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gohomephilly.com

got balls?

Word of mouth.

It’s still the finest form of flattery. Especially when your mouth gets a taste of Pastificio’s succulent selection of homemade Italian delicacies - including homemade pasta and meatballs to go.

Pastificio’s got balls! Freshly prepped daily using Grade A ground beef, pork & veal - a family recipe that keeps customers coming back for more! Stop in and say hello to Anthony Messina and Frank Sangiuliano.

Tell them RowHome sent you!

ROWHOME MAGAZINE

|7

PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER Dorette Rota Jackson

VICE PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER Dawn Rhoades

EDITOR Dorette Rota Jackson

From ingredients to atmosphere.

VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & PROMOTIONS Dawn Rhoades

CONTRIBUTORS Donato Angelotti David Cava Alicia DeLeo Larry Gallone Brian Hickey Brett Jackson Larry McMullen Maria Merlino

Michael Rhoades Jade Rota Bob Russo Tony Santini Mark Casasanto Lauren Gordon Bob Wagner

GREEN SPACE EDITOR Kerri-Lee Halkett

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Michelle Torres

THE BRIDES GUIDE Joseph Volpe

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Carol Vassallo

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ITALIAN SPECIALTIES ■ GOURMET PIZZAS

Phil Kramer John McMullen Hector Valentin Paul Loftland

CREATIVE DIRECTOR / PRODUCTION Omar Rubio

ACCOUNT MANAGER Theresa Palestino

,i> Ê Ì> > °°°ÊÜ Ì Ê>ÊÌÜ ÃÌ

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Mike Rhoades

INTERN PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lauren Gordon

141 N. Dorset Ave., Ventnor Èä °nÓÓ°£äÈÇÊUÊ,iÃiÀÛ>Ì ÃÊ VVi«Ìi` Hours UÊ iÀ\Ê/Õi°q->Ì°Ê{PMÊ Ê Ã }Ê UÊÊ Ài> v>ÃÌ\Ê->Ì°q-Õ °ÊÇAM - 1PM UÊÊ Ãi`Ê Ê `>Þ

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PUBLISHED BY: Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.com Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine and its contents are copyrighted.

Content printed in the magazine may not be reproduced or reprinted, in whole or in part, by any other party without the expressed written consent of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. 2009 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.

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THEMAILBOX EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: INFO@GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

DEAR DORETTE:

DEAR DORETTE & DAWN:

I just finished reading your article on “RowHome Carol” (Pressed/ Issue 16) and thoroughly enjoyed every line of it. I had the pleasure of working at A. Charles Peruto Sr.’s law firm in the late 1980s while attending Delaware Law School. Equally as important, I’ve had the pleasure of knowing your mother Carol. What a great lady! That entire office, while in its prime, was the Roman Empire of the legal world and Carol was the gatekeeper for the empire.

It’s hard to believe that the corner of 8th & Locust no longer houses some of the area’s best attorneys and the dialing of 215.925.5800 no longer produces the cheerful sound of your mother saying “Law Offices!” Please give your mom my best. P.S. I love your magazine.

Louis R. Busico, Attorney at Law

I cannot thank RowHome Magazine enough for the article “From Billy Penn to Billy Keller” (By Maria Merlino/Issue 16). The article was so impressive and I cannot believe how many people read the article and stopped me in the streets expressing the same.

Bill Keller, House of Representatives, 184th Legislative District

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DEAR PRH: I don’t think you girls know how much you’ve done for our neighborhoods with your magazine. I read every issue, page to page, and I am so proud of the people and the businesses here. I caught up to so many friends we haven’t seen for years. Their families and their stories are in your magazine. My family is Rowhome Grown for five generations and your magazine reminds us what it means to live here. Thank

gohomephilly.com

you for this beautiful magazine!

Rita Carmolongo

DEAR PRH: I love your magazine and my 84-year-old father who now lives in northern DE and who was born and raised on 2 Street (Manton St.) really likes it, too! He is quite the PR man for South Philly down in DE and thinks if one has a healthy family, soft pretzels and mummers music, one is truly blessed!

Karen Rodgers

DEAR PRH: Thank you so much for putting this [article] together (“DJ Saleem tracks his vision” by Michelle Torres/Issue 16). It looks great. I have already received compliments from my label and friends. I look forward to working with you more and thank you for making WMC 2009 a very memorable event.

Saleem

VOL7/10

DEAR PRH: Thanks...love your magazine!

You are both doing a wonderful job exposing the many wonders of South Philly. Keep up the great work!

Mary Hand

DEAR DORETTE Congratulations on a wonderful magazine! I picked up PRH in the waiting room here at CrozerChester Medical Center and there you were on page 9! I was like, wow! I know her! LOL! The magazine is great and I will get a subscription!

Christinette Thompson

HEY DORETTE: I can’t believe that the “hygiene spray” story (Saving Face/ Pressed/Issue 15) still lives on!

The sound you hear in the distance is my mother screaming!

Lou R.

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PRHLIFE

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STREET

SONGS A PREVIEW

by LARRY MCMULLEN OVER THE NEXT FEW ISSUES, this magazine is running excerpts from Larry McMullen’s soon-to-be published book, “Street Songs,” taken from columns written over 40-plus years for the Philadelphia Daily News, America Online and Philadelphia RowHome Magazine.

Pete Dexter, award-winning novelist and former Daily News columnist, writes in the foreword to McMullen’s book, “. . . when the switch was on, McMullen was a genius at what he did, the best fit of man, city and newspaper I have ever seen . . .”

The column included here is about a fabled South Philadelphia neighborhood where the memory of the slaughter of an innocent family almost 150 years ago endured longer than The Neck itself did.

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PRHLIFE PHILADELPHIA DAILY NEWS, March 10, 1992 GHOSTS OF THE NECK John Senick is haunted by a murderous rampage that wiped out a family in South Philadelphia long before even his parents were born.

“I grew up down The Neck hearing the story,” Senick, 69, was saying last night as he sat on the edge of his bed in Methodist Hospital, where he’s undergoing tests for an ailment that he has reason to hope will turn out to be fairly minor.

The hospital stay, though, has heightened a feeling he already had about his own mortality. It happens to everybody sooner or later, but Senick is the last of a breed and had a growing need to get some things on record.

The murder of the family was just part of the legend of a section of the city that was more rural than urban, where pigs and chickens were raised and the land was farmed, where there was no running water and very few houses had electricity. Senick said his family lived on Stone House Lane, around where 3rd and Pattison is now.

At one time, according to newspaper clippings, The Neck extended as far north as Moore Street. By the time Senick was born, its area had shrunk so that it covered only a few blocks south of Oregon Avenue, where the Food Distribution Center is now located.

The Neck apparently was first settled before the Revolutionary War

by Germans, Swedes and French, among others, by people who were doing what came naturally for a time when the economy was dominated by farming.

In this century, The Neck was populated mainly by immigrants who

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were poor and couldn’t afford to live anywhere else. Senick said his parents came to the United States from the Ukraine prior to World War I and built a house, mostly of wood, on East Jones Lane, which was just off Delaware Avenue.

They lived next to a yard where railroad ties were manufactured and where Senick’s father found work. Later, the family moved to Stone House Lane, where Senick was born.

He said that when he was a kid there were maybe 75 houses in The Neck -- which by then ran roughly between Front and 4th streets -- with only a couple of hundred people living in them.

He said two different city dumps, with refuse on them burning constantly, were located within a couple of blocks of the houses. He said as far as he knows, though, the smoke never caused any health problems.

“To tell the truth, I don’t remember anybody ever getting sick at all,” said Senick, who said most of the houses in The Neck were heated only by potbellied stoves that burned coal lifted from unguarded railroad cars.

He has almost nothing but good memories of The Neck, despite hard times. He remembers neighbors who would welcome newcomers by helping them build their houses and who would keep soup on the stove on New Year’s Day so celebrating strangers could stop in and have something hot to eat.

“I think the custom of bean soup on New Year’s Day in Philly started in The Neck,” said Senick.

For certain, the term New Year’s Shooters that’s associated with the Mummers Parade came from tough Neckers who brought in the New Year by firing handguns in the air while going from door to door

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PRHLIFE demanding the occupants of the homes bring them whiskey and gin.

All in good fun, of course. Senick, at least, doesn’t remember even legends of anyone being hit by stray bullets.

The slaughter at the Deering Farm, however, is a thread that seems to run through his entire life. It might have more to do with the willow trees near his house, though, and with his own old dreams and nightmares than with the bloody murders of people he never knew.

Senick, who has a grown son and daughter, remembers days filled with work when he was a kid, of getting up at 6 in the morning to slop his family’s pigs and clean the pens before going to school and of dragging his wagon afternoons around the neighborhood on the other side of Oregon Avenue, where people lived more in the 20th century than The Neckers did, to fill it with garbage for the pigs to eat.

He said he always dreaded being caught by a classmate and shamed for emptying cans into his wagon that had been set out for the garbage collectors.

“When I got older and was coming home after midnight, I could hear the trees crying in the darkness,� he said Sometimes, The Neckers felt like they lived in a far-off country. Part of their folklore was the story of the farmhand who went berserk and killed a father, mother and their baby in a bloodbath one day in 1866. “They said he bashed the baby’s head against the side of the barn and killed the parents with a pitchfork,� said Senick.

He said the story was that the murders at the Deering Farm in The Neck left such a stain on the land that the willow trees there had wept every night since. “When I got older and was coming home after midnight, I could hear the trees crying in the darkness,� he said.

Senick suffers with chronically bad knees and has had part of a lung removed and, like all of us, is using up his credits that were on the book when his life began.

He might have been thinking that when he talked of old ghosts and of trees that wept with night winds in a place that no longer exists and of people who lived there who are mostly dead and gone. “I can still hear the willows crying,� he said. “I can’t get the sound of it out of my mind.�

Postscript -- It turned out the real story was even more horrible than the legend. Anton Probst, a German immigrant hired as a farmhand, killed eight people one by one with hammer and axe, including seven Christopher Deering family members and a visitor. He apparently then looted the house. The only surviving Deering was a 10-year-old boy who was away from home at the time of the massacre. A New York Times story datelined Philadelphia, April 18, 1866, detailed preparations for Probst’s trial and claimed the paper had information that he had entered military service a number of times in order to gain bounties. Once, the Times alleged, Probst shot off his thumb in order to win a discharge. “Among his comrades,� the newspaper reported, “his character was anything but enviable.�

On June 8, 1866, the Times reported from Philadelphia that Probst, who had been found guilty, was executed by hanging. âœ˝

1022-26 Washington Ave Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.468.8300

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PRHLIFE

17

MINUTES

by BOB WAGNER

In just 17 minutes, a house was destroyed

I

was born and raised on the 2400 block of South Warnock Street.

My son Brett is the 5th generation of my family to live in our modest row home. While my family easily has the longest tenure on the block, the Ermilio family has also called Warnock Street home for more than 70 years.

A little after midnight on September 29th, a fire broke out in the living room of the Ermilio household and quickly engulfed the entire residence. Sadly, it claimed the lives of our longtime neighbors and friends - Bobby “Sabu” Ermilio, 73 and his sister Madeline Hart, 68.

In just 17 minutes, a house was destroyed, two lives were lost and the innocence of an entire neighborhood was forever shattered.

Maybe this senseless tragedy could have been avoided. But there were no smoke detectors in their home. There just wasn’t enough time to save Bobby and Madeline.

The fire moved too quickly. My neighbors and I quickly sprang into action after hearing the shattering of glass. Someone called 911. Several neighbors and then policemen tried to break down the front door of the home. We could hear Bobby crying out to us from his bedroom.

‘Somebody help me. Please. Somebody help me.’ Cries from a

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friend that will forever haunt our sleep.

It took the Fire Department only three minutes to arrive on the scene. Despite their immediate and aggressive attempts to rescue the family, it was already too late.

Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers has repeatedly urged all Philadelphia residents to install smoke detectors in their homes. Persons who do not have smoke alarms or cannot afford them should call the Smoke Alarm Hotline at 215.686.1176. They will be provided to you at no cost. Philadelphia residents can also obtain additional fire safety and education information at www.phila.gov/fire Maybe you already have smoke detectors. Maybe you’ve been meaning to change those dead batteries but haven’t gotten around to it. Maybe you think you don’t need smoke detectors. After all, it’s just a small row home. You will have plenty of time to get out.

But you won’t.

Despite the desperate attempts of firefighters, police and the band of neighbors on the 2400 block of South Warnock Street to save this family, there just wasn’t enough time.

We needed more than just 17 minutes. ✽

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PRHLIFE

s d a r e Th e v o l f o

by Linda Ba ldi

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W

hat inspires a person to reach for more despite the challenges? My inspiration comes from my grandmother and thousands of other workers who overcame obstacles to secure a better future for their families and children.

Much has been written about these brave women, who, during World War II stepped up to the plate and took over for their husbands in the factories, steel mills, hospitals or wherever their services were needed. While those

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PRHLIFE men fought for our country, these women did whatever was necessary to fill the economic void.

In our pocket of neighborhoods, “factory workers” spent day after day threading hundreds of needles to support their families. There were no opportunities for education. No “ladders of success” to climb.

They did what they had to do to feed their children and families, sometimes friends and strangers.

At the end of a long day, they’d gather at a neighbor’s house (the neighbor lucky enough to have a television set) to watch one of three shows that were aired at the time. Music, food and tradition were their favorite past-times. Love surrounded this forgotten generation and “family” was the core of their world.

My grandmother, Angelina Dieni, along with thousands of others, knew what it was to sacrifice. She knew the reality of going to bed hungry and the debilitating effects of being hopelessly poor.

But she also knew that a better life awaited her. Maybe across the ocean where most immigrated. A life in America.

These immigrants worked in clothing factories like Daroff’s and Pincus. They worked excruciatingly long hours for shamefully low wages and they never complained. They asked for nothing more than the pennies for which they agreed as payment for each coat or trouser they sewed. As “piece work” employees, compensation depended on the number of clothing pieces they produced. No more, no less. After work hours, family members pitched in to get a head start on the next day’s “piece work.”

As a small child, I recall seeing coat on top of coat piled in the living rooms of my grandmother and aunt. I remember watching them go out into the bitter night cold to pick them up. They had to walk great distances to get them and did not have warm stockings or boots to wear.

So they would wrap their legs in old newspapers to keep warm.

When they were finished with the coats, they walked back to the factory to return them.

In addition to their daytime jobs, these women expertly performed all of the tasks required of a good housewife and mother—cooking, cleaning, laundry and most importantly, caring for the children.

Despite the difficulties, they managed to instill in their children a sense of hope through the traditions they lovingly passed down to the generations. Celebrations that continue to mark our lives –birthday parties, baby showers and holiday gatherings. Despite the hardships, there was laughter.

These photographs are a testament to these remarkable women and their families. It is a tribute to the soldiers who defended our country and to the legacy of hope they passed along to the generations that followed.

Most of them are gone but I wonder if they realize how courageous they really were and the impact they have left on our lives. The roads that they’ve paved for us.

When you look into the faces of these women, you will see their happiness. Their contentment. Not grim reminders of their plight but beacons of hope and love for the future. Proof that wondrous things can indeed come from insurmountable obstacles. The courage they have shown and the values they’ve instilled in their children are the cornerstones for us and for future generations.

Grandmom, I will never forget you, my guardian angel. For every star above was your thread of love. ✽

There are two certainties in life.

Only one comes with options.

David M. Spitzberg 1505 South Broad Street Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 P: 215.952.8800 F: 215.952.0800 www.CPAforBusiness.com www.CPAforSolar.com info@CPAforBusiness.com

ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHLIFE

A Different Kind of Row Home

Dee Monzo, Angie Crognale and Fanny Impagliazzo

by Tony Santini

D

oes this scenario sound familiar? Mom & Dad raised 2, 3 or 4 kids in their small but well maintained row home with one bathroom (maybe a bath and a half). After a few years, there may have been some grandchildren to watch while the parents went to work. The home is small by today’s standards but probably served as the gathering place for family get-togethers or an evening cup of coffee with visiting neighbors.

Now the kids are grown and have their own homes. The grandchildren aren’t babies anymore and Mom and Dad are still in the same house but living alone. Many of their old neighbors have moved on and neither you nor your siblings live close enough should they need you in a hurry. Although they are doing okay, you worry about them. What if they fall and can’t get to the phone? Did they remember to take their medications? Are they safe living alone? You think about alternatives but you know that if you mention the subject to them, you’re opening yourself up to an argument. The last thing they want to do is leave the row home where they lived their lives and raised their children. So many happy memories are attached to that home.

Maybe, just maybe, it’s time for a different kind of row home.

Every day, more and more Boomers are faced with the difficult task of finding safe, affordable options for their aging parents and discovering that there are not enough retirement communities to consider. A lot of elderly parents feel that retirement communities are just a euphemism for nursing homes – a subject that is taboo as far as they’re concerned. Children of elderly parents are overwhelmed by feelings of guilt and betrayal. Do they insist on alternate living arrangements?

Do they invite their parents to live with them despite their concerns for safety, socialization and blending lifestyles?

About a year ago, Donna faced this exact dilemma with her mother Fanny. After many heart-to-heart talks and a few months of searching and visiting, mother and daughter settled on an independent living facility right in our backyard in Washington Township, New Jersey.

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This particular senior residential community offered independent and assisted living apartments in a garden setting. It is a one-story complex and each apartment has its own screened patio outdoors. The community was open to all and offered either independent or assisted living depending on the needs of the new resident. Cost was dependent on the living arrangements selected and the extent of the assisted services requested. Although happy with their search, Donna and Fanny sought professional advice before making their final decision.

If and when you are ready to make a move that involves transitioning seniors, it might be wise to consult with a lawyer who specializes in elder care. The particular one that Fanny Impagliazzo used was Jerry Rothkoff of Rothkoff Elder & Disability Law. A little bit of professional advanced planning in addition to the personal research and visitation of the possible facilities might save you a lot of frustration and do wonders for your uncertainty and anxiety. For example, a lawyer may be able to assist you with the negotiation of a risk-free trial period at a facility which may not advertise such an option.

Rothkoff advises, “Since most families and children of elderly parents have never dealt with the long-term care system, it is important to seek guidance from qualified and knowledgeable professionals to avoid problems in the future whether they involve receiving the care, benefits or amenities promised at the facility or ensuring that you have sufficient funds for future care.” Rothkoff and his staff of two social workers, assist their clients in making an informed decision and continually follow-up with them to ensure they are getting the best care possible.

For Donna and her mother, Fanny Impagliazzo, the choice of a nearby independent living facility was their mutually beneficial solution. Donna found a safe environment within minutes of her own home so she could visit often. For Fanny, she was able to maintain her independence in private living quarters complete with her own kitchen if she wanted to cook. If not, she has the option of dining with

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PRHLIFE the other residents in the community dining room. An on-site qualified medical staff is a comfort to both mom and daughter although Fanny is adamant about keeping her regular appointments with her doctors and hairdresser back home in South Philly!

Reluctant to go at first because of the emotional ties to her home on the 1300 block of Warnock Street, Fanny says that moving day was a happy one for her. She knew that she was going to a safe environment where she would be closer to her daughter and the grandchildren.

And she looked forward to making new friends. The bonus came when she found that most of her new neighbors were also from South Philly.

They spend hours on end sharing stories of growing up in the same neighborhood as well as their time-honored tips on child-rearing and husband-training.

Fanny realized that her new “next door neighbors” would easily become instant friends. Dee Monzo is from the 2900 block of S. 13th Street and Angie Crognale lived on the 1500 block of Curtin Street.

The trio share recipes, take walks and reminisce about the past, the future and most of all, their children and grandchildren.

“I go out to dinner with my friends every night,” Fanny said. “Even though we are only going to the community dining hall, we like getting dressed and enjoying a meal with friends.”

“My friends make me laugh!” Dee adds. “When I was sick with a cold, they brought me homemade chicken soup. This is not a gesture that I will easily forget.”

Angie, who has lived in the community the longest, says “I feel safe, I stay active and I take part in whatever recreation and entertainment options are available. I am able to keep my independence but have peace of mind to know that there will be friends or staff around to check in on me if need be.”

All three said they miss the big kitchens they had in their South Philly row homes but they do manage to bake cakes and cookies in their new apartments, especially around the holidays.

If permanent residence is not a current option, families will find a number of Adult Day Care Centers throughout the area including Washington Township’s Communicare and Senior Adult Day Care. These types of facilities offer transportation to and from the facility, breakfast and lunch, activities, medication dispensing and other services to assist the elderly who are living alone. They also provide peace of mind to the “working children” of elderly parents living with them.

Fanny and her friends say they are very happy with their new living arrangements. They encourage their old friends from the neighborhood to visit assisted living communities before ruling against such options.

They say they keep each other laughing by checking out the men in the community, thinking up ways to make their bingo games more entertaining, or discretely talking about their hearing, eyesight, aches and pains or lack thereof.

They read the Inquirer every day and joke among themselves that they check out the Obituaries first to make sure their names aren’t listed! They all watch the “Doctor” shows on afternoon TV and enjoy comparing notes later. They don’t waste food and save the leftovers for their grandchildren’s pets. All in all, they say they’ve adapted to this new stage of their lives.

The essence of row home life is preserved through the inevitable bonds that connect people who come from the same neighborhood. Just ask the “Three Amigas” if you see them on one of their group outings. ✽ ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHLIFE

HOME HELP FOR SENIORS by

DONATO ANGELOTTI photos by HECTOR VALENTIN

A

ccording to US census estimates, the number of centenarians (100 years or older) in the United States is expected to rise to around 580,605 by 2040, compared to a total 79,692 on November 1, 2006.

While these census bureau statistics demonstrate that our nation is definitely living longer, they also underpin the unprecedented advances made in modern medicine. And yet, longevity carries with it its own set of unique challenges.

Those of us with elderly relatives in need of care are well aware of the emotional, physical and economical challenges. Longevity has also illuminated the need for quality care services and facilities.

Not all of us are cut out to be caregivers. And nursing homes, assisted living and similar facilities exist for a reason. On the other hand, we are all too familiar with the cases of abuse committed at the hand of so-called ‘skilled professionals’. Choosing someone to whom you can entrust the care of a loved one is a monumental task.

I met Ralph Digneo in his “Home Helpers” office on Oregon Avenue to learn more about the services he offers for senior care. Ralph’s vision sees the company’s services evolving as caregivers and seniors become more comfortable with each other.

Home Helpers’ list of services include companionship, bathing,

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dressing, feeding, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation to doctors’ offices, prescription pick-ups, errand services or anything else the senior may need. But I was especially interested in Home Helpers’ program to keep elders in their own homes.

Consider an individual who has lived in the same house for 40, 50 years or longer. A sudden change could have significant ramifications, he explains, citing specific cases. It can be especially difficult for residents living in a traditional neighborhood like South Philadelphia.

His aim and the mission of Home Helpers are to keep people in a familiar environment for as long as possible.

Ralph explains how he got into the business quite by chance, how it has grown and some of his plans for the future. I am left with an overwhelming sense of this man’s passion and commitment to not only filling a gap in a market, but also in tackling the problem of underqualified, unsympathetic staff members employed in this industry.

Our conversation is interrupted by several telephone calls, including one from one of his caregivers who calls in sick. No problem. As any well-prepared business person should, he puts a contingency plan in motion before continuing our conversation.

There are clearly countless things that can go wrong in Th tthis business, and the aim is to ensure the comfort of his ssenior clients at every moment. According to Digneo, he employs carefully screened and trained caregivers who e have extensive experience in specialty care areas such h as Alzheimer’s, dementia, arthritis and hospice care, among many others. am I asked Ralph about the emotional aspect of the job, for it is clear to me that he too cares about his patients. He speaks of guarding his emotions closely, for fear of losing the sp objectivity necessary to perform in this often shunned social function.

But he admits that at times it is not easy since many of his clients are people that he has known his entire life. A determined but humble man, Ralph is especially proud that Home Helpers is a family-owned business with local roots.

Home Helpers also provides non-medical personalized care for new moms, accident victims and other home-bound residents.

Contact Ralph Digneo at Home Helpers. 215.334.2600.

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PRHLIFE

SHOP TALK CALLING ALL BARBERS!

£

Do you have a “Wall of Fame” photo you’d like us to include in an upcoming SHOP TALK spotlight? Email a copy to PRH at info@gohomephilly.com or mail us a copy – PRH Magazine. PO Box 54786. Phila., PA 19148. Include your business’ name, address, phone & a brief description of the photo & the year it was taken.

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One of the most famous photos on Barber & Radio Talk Show Host Robert “Woody” Woodard’s “Wall of Fame”? Michael Jackson.

MJ stopped by Woodard’s shop with DJ Georgie Woods back in 1980 before a concert at the Spectrum. Not only did Woody give him a haircut, he gave him some tips to help ease

the singer’s concerns about a skin condition.

Michael was most interested in taking Woody’s 1947 Cadillac out for a spin. Woodard’s Barber Shop. 5031 W. Diamond St. 215.879.9935. Or listen to him on Barber Shop Talk Radio every Thursday on WURD 900 AM from 9 to 10 pm.

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VOLUME _7 ISSUE 17_ 2009 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

HANGIN’OUT

JAN/FEB/MARCH 2010

1&2_Genovesi and Mellilo Families at Annunciation BVM’s Padre Pio Festival’s kickoff dinner.

3_Papale Family - Vinnie, Janet, Vince, Gabriella 4_Dorette, Ed McBride (EOM President), Kenny Adams (Mueller Distributors), Ed Kirlin (EJK Enterprises) & Dawn are hangin’ out in Pennsport.

5_James Moylan & John Dougherty at Doc’s Farewell Ceremony - stepping down as Pennsport President.

6_Jim Kenny, Johnny Pompo & Jim Gallo at Stogie Joe’s during ‘Open Mic Night’.

7_John Rechner, Bill McDowell, Joe Cooney, Manny Cassidy, Jim O’Conner, Drew Oldrati and Tom Gill join the fight against breast cancer for the J-Walkers & Susan G. Komen. “Cops for the Cure” Calendars are available at www.copsforthecure.com.

1 3

8_King Arthur & Queen Janet at Stogie Joe’s on East Passyunk Avenue.

9_Hangin’ out at Stogie Joe’s Monday Open Mic night.

10_Tony Santini and friends enjoy a great night with Jerry Blavat and the Soul Cruisers at Chickie’s & Pete’s.

On hand are Frank Anastasi, Michelle Anastasi, Tony Santini, Julia Santini, Chris Pettinelli, Bob Pettinelli, C&P owner Pete Ciarocchi, Gina and the C&P staff.

2 4

11_Jennifer Hergenroeder, Quezal Austin, Candice Shively, Maryann Filippello & Kori Duck enjoy dinner at the Melting Pot. 12_PRH with friends from Barber Shop Talk Radio 910 AM. (L to R) Mike Williams, Dawn, Robert “Woody” Woodard, Dorette & Toni Baker.

13_Tony Orlando gives a thumb’s up to the staff during a recent visit to the Diamond Club at Citizens Bank Park. Pictured from left to right are Phillies employees Bonnie Eastlack, Mark Casasanto, Tony Orlando, Harold Palmer and Tony Kirkpatrick.

6

5

14_John Saverase, Presto Printing, with family and friends at the beach.

15_Celebrating Matt’s 50th and Ralph’s 80th Birthdays at The Mediterranean Banquet Hall: (back row) Silvia & Matthew Velykis, Sara & Rick Puglia, Ralph & Amalia Puglia Sr., Elisa Puglia and Ralph Puglia Jr. 16_Maria Brown, Donna Allen, Lisa Ranger-Jurek, Phillie Phanatic & Lisa Armentani- Menaldi are hangin’ out.

17_The 5K for Melanoma at The Wachovia Center: “Team Elbo” (front)- Jim Cattalo, Jen Danko, Michael Danko, Diana Ferraiolo, Maryellen Antell, Lillian Franklin, Denise McLaughlin, Eddie Anderson, Dot Anderson, Maureen Magee, Len Armstrong & Doug Pizzi Russo. (back) Brendan Armstrong, Eileen Dank. (kneeling) - Eleanor Gallagher Armstrong (Captain).

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18_Christian Cooper (Announcer) & Michael Danko (2nd Place Finisher)at the 5K for Melanoma at The Wachovia Center.

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12/6/09 11:55:00 PM

PRHSPOTLIGHT

DROPS OF JUNIPER

by MARIA MERLINO

photos by PAUL LOFTLAND | ARCHITEC360

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gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 9:08:57 AM

Architectural & Interior Design by

Abitar’e Design Studio 39 N. 3rd Street.

267.234.7207. abitareds.com

ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHSPOTLIGHT

NOTE TO SELF: GIVE SHARON PINKENSON FROM THE GREATER PHILADELPHIA FILM OFFICE A CALL. I JUST FOUND A HOUSE THAT DESERVES TO BE IN A MOVIE! ON SECOND THOUGHT, THE HOUSE COULD BE THE MOVIE. JUST WALKING THROUGH IT CHANGED MY LIFE. VICKIE AND MICHAEL RIVERSO STARTED OUT LIKE SO MANY OF THE TEENS AT 12TH AND WOLF STREETS. AS HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS. VICKIE WAS WORKING AS A LOTTERY GIRL AT SAM’S CASTLE WHEN SHE AND MICHAEL, A ROD SETTER, MADE A COMMITMENT TO EACH OTHER. THEY TIED THE KNOT, BECAME PARENTS AND MOVED INTO A ROW HOUSE ON JUNIPER STREET.

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12/7/09 9:10:35 AM

ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHSPOTLIGHT

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Vickie stayed home with the children, Nicole, Michael Jr. and Domenic. Michael did a one-eighty and became an Options Broker on The Philadelphia Stock Exchange. Life was good. “We’re everyday people,� Vickie affirms. She’s putting away a vacuum cleaner, a Dyson or an Oreck, I’m not sure, but it looks like it can suck the dust from the moon. I do a double-take as the vacuum disappears into a wall pocket. “We’re down-to-earth with normal lives. We were born and raised here.�

Their house, on the other hand, is worthy of Beverly Hills.

In 2006, when two adjacent properties became available on their 2500 block of S. Juniper Street, the Riversos immediately jumped into action. “We always had a dream of buying a couple of houses next to each other to turn into one big property,� Vickie recollects. “We wanted to put our money in the neighborhood we loved. Michael and I are huge fans of HGTV and every night we would watch the different shows, take notes and visualize about our fantasy house.�

After careful planning, they broke ground in 2006 but there was no meeting of the minds with the original architect they hired. The Riversos were less than enthusiastic about the blueprints. “We had to part ways but then Steve Maffei came into our lives,� Michael continues. “He totally got us.�

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Steven J. Maffei, Principal in Abitare Design Studio, immediately jumped onto the same page with the couple. He took them to studios and listened to their needs and desires. He focused on a single element, like a slab of granite, an artisan sink or a Tiger Woods staircase

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PRHSPOTLIGHT

and came up with an entire room design.

As Maffei leans over to hug Michael and Vickie, he makes a pronouncement. “We’ve become family. It was challenging but we had a trust-trust situation.� The Riversos concur. “We could never have done it without Steve.�

So great was their confidence in Maffei that they entrusted him with his own area of the house to bring to life. The third floor Master Bed and Bath. I usually don’t fall in love with inanimate objects, but the glass-tile encrusted spa tub is like a frozen moment in time.

Incorporating masculinity in the juxtaposition equation of a soft green feminine bedroom with macho butch-studded chandelier is nothing less than genius. The balcony has cityscape and bridge views. “This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,� Michael confesses to me. “Right now, after all I’ve learned, I could probably be a consultant on DIY-TV!� Vickie was more pragmatic. “This is all material stuff.

Home is what you make it. The kids and the holidays. As long as we’re all together, it’s bliss.â€? âœ˝ Maria Merlino lives in and writes about South Philadelphia

LAST DRAW

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gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 9:11:46 AM

W H AT I F C I T Y L I V I N G M E A N T

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{ C I T Y L I V I N G AT I T S F I N E S T }

12/7/09 9:11:58 AM

PRHCONTRACTOR SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING DREAMS ONE SPACE AT A TIME

by LAUREN MACALUSO photos by REBECCA SAVEDOW

O

n the first floor of the Arts Condominium in Center City sits a 7,000 square foot commercial space. Plywood floorboards and dark, red brick walls convey an unfinished look but the high ceilings, early 20th century decorative molding and long, hanging light fixtures prove that the soon-to-be event hall has promise. This space is just one of nine projects in which Marko Dunovich and his company, CRO Construction, are invested.

CRO CONSTRUCTION Before establishing what is now a desired contracting company, Dunovich was a navigator on a cargo ship. When he decided to leave the trade in the early ’80s, he discovered his passion for helping people build and personalize their homes. With a simple “I can do that” mentality, he carried a new door from 5th & Moore to 2nd & Bainbridge to install for a customer. And so it began.

Dunovich has come a long way since then.

Within the past six years, his company has

worked with 250 residents in the Center City area alone while managing out-of state and foreign investors’ projects.

“What sets us apart from the others is we’re not too small to build a home and we’re not too big to remodel a kitchen either,” Dunovich says of CRO Construction’s flexibility. “We have a lot of pull when it comes to bidding on the smaller projects because not too many small companies did 200 or 250 kitchens in the last couple of years.” ➦

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PRHCONTRACTOR SPOTLIGHT

Since its start in 1985, the company has had a steady influx of interested customers and is now working with clients from Boston, New Jersey and New York who want to invest in Philadelphia.

CRO Construction’s work ethic is defined by its close relationship with clients, their onhand architects and dependable customer service. Dunovich says “nothing is impossible” in terms of what a client envisions. The time he personally takes with each potential client is vital to the growth of CRO Construction’s business, built on positive references from existing clients.

“Every time you finish a project, if you don’t shake [the customer’s] hand or end on good terms, that’s the last time you’re going to hear

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from that person,” he says. “That’s not the way to do business. I always try to do a little bit more than people pay us for. It’s the little stuff that people appreciate.”

In today’s economy, Dunovich says multitasking is important. CRO Construction offers an array of services—from exterior to interior, concrete, façades, brick, stone or stucco fronts, kitchens and bathrooms—and they have the experience to make your dream a reality.

The horror stories associated with contracting have left many people disheartened by the industry. Dunovich recommends researching any company before making a decision. However, he’s confident about his company’s reputation.

“Word of mouth is the most important thing,” he says. “Quality in work and customer

service that goes a long way. You need to do good work and treat [the customers] well. It’s their home, it’s their money, there’s plenty of choices out there and I consider myself lucky that we’re the ones they want to work with.”

The commercial space inside the Arts Condominium will be transformed into a catering hall capable of holding parties and meetings.

Marble steps, archways, a mezzanine and raised wood-paneled walls will complement the antique features that have been hidden for so long.

Dunovich looks around the immense space, admiring the high ceilings and the beginnings of what his team will remodel and says, “I can see it complete. I can see people dancing already.” ✽ CRO Construction @ croconstruction.net. 215.952.8740.

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 12:04:01 AM

PRHCONTRACTOR SPOTLIGHT

DON’T STRAIN YOUR DRAIN

PHOTO BY SISSEL KARLSEN

by JESSICA LISTA

JUST DRAINS

Meloni’s Butcher Block 771 S Black Horse Pike # A Turnersville, NJ 08012 (856) 228-5000 (856) 228-5330 Fax

W

ith more than 25 years of experience and a rapidly growing business that spans Maryland to New York and now Boston, Mike Williams, owner of Just Drains, is a man who truly knows a thing or two about plumbing.

“I’m like the walking encyclopedia for drains,” Williams says. “No question is ever a bad question.”

Conveniently, Just Drains is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist clients with drain problems and concerns. The company also offers customers two great deals that keep money in their pockets. For one, they don’t charge you for the visit if you call them to come out and inspect your drain. Secondly, there is no charge if they can’t unclog your drain.

“It is a win-win situation for our customers,” Williams explains. “We want to get your drain open ’cause that’s what we do and that’s what they [the customers] ask for.”

Although they specialize in drain cleaning, Just Drains offers several other services like root removal. If you have a tree root that is interfering with your pipes, Just Drains has service plans that can eliminate your problem.

Since Williams believes his company is here first and foremost to take care of its customers,

he wanted to open up that encyclopedia of his and share some useful knowledge.

Here are the “Top 3 Tips” on what NOT to put down your drain…

Number One: Do not ever pour grease down your kitchen sink - especially hot grease. Once hot grease cools, it turns into a solid, which will clog up the pipes and cause the drain flow to slow down.

Number Two: Do not use any type of harsh detergents to clean the inside of your toilet.

Always read the label of the cleaner to make sure it is safe for your plumbing.

Number Three: If you have a washing machine that spills into a separate sink, make sure you have a lint collector in the drain. The lint from your clothes loosens during the washing cycle and accumulates in the water before dispensing through the hose into the utility sink. The combined water and lint can clog the pipes.

HINT: No lint collector? Don’t Panic! With a few household items and a bit of creativity, you can create your own. One option is to tie a shoelace around a sock to collect the lint or a pair of stockings/knee-highs will do the trick. ✽ For more information, you can check out Just Drains online at www.justdrainsinc.com, on Facebook and Twitter.

Order online at

www.melonis.com

Specializing in ● Fresh Meat ● Deli ● Oven ready ● Prepared Meals ● Catering ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHCONTRACTOR SPOTLIGHT

ANVIL IRON WORKS

WROUGHT IRON REIGNS

by ELISE BOWDER

“WHAT I DO IS NOT JUST A JOB. IT’S AN ART,” SAYS BILL NATOLI, OWNER OF ANVIL IRON WORKS.

S

ince Natoli’s grandfather opened up shop in 1945, this third generation business has been preserving the art of ornamental wrought iron in the city.

“South Philadelphia was the first shop we ever opened and we’ve been here ever since,” Natoli says with pride.

Wrought iron décor dates back to the early 1900s yet continues to make a fashion statement in homes today due to its versatility and uniqueness. Anvil Iron Works is determined to keep this art alive by providing Philadelphians with quality wrought iron work that leaves a lasting impression. No matter what style you’re looking for, Anvil Iron Works is all about “making dreams come true.”

“You can’t go to Home Depot and buy our product,” Natoli assures.

Each piece Anvil Iron Works creates is custom-made. Designs may look similar but no two designs are identical, Natoli says, which gives your home a sense of individuality. Wrought iron also adds a luxurious feel and increases the value of your home.

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Incorporating wrought iron into your home can be an easy process. Natoli encourages customers to bring in pictures of designs. If you’re unsure of what you want, designers can work with you to come up with an idea.

“The hardest part of this business is getting inside the customer’s head and figuring out what they’re envisioning,” Natoli says. “You have to make sure 100 percent that what [the customers are] going to get is what they want.

Once you have the design, it clicks.”

Interior railings are Anvil’s most popular product. Iron railings are much more versatile than your typical wood banister.

“The sky is the limit with the design. You can do leaves, you can do grapes, you can do vines – all different types of intricate designs,” Natoli says.

Juliette balconies are another way to dress up your home. These are small standing surfaces outside a sliding or patio door that are more decorative than a simple window guard. Natoli suggests pairing Juliette balconies on one side of your home with a large patio surrounded by matching iron railing on the opposing side.

Anvil Iron Works also adds function to formality. In the city, roof decks are popular but difficult to access. Anvil designs and builds spiral staircases which solves the problem of accessibility while adding a unique, visual element to your home. Safety is a major concern in the city so the installation of security bars and gates is a common way to dress up the exterior of your house while adding protection.

Besides interior and exterior work, Anvil Iron Works also makes wrought iron furniture. You could incorporate wrought iron into your kitchen with a granite countertop base or into your living room with coffee or end tables. Wrought iron room dividers are another way to give your home that lavish appearance.

Often you hear that wrought iron is a dying art, but according to Natoli, this idea holds no truth. Genuine wrought iron work will always have a place in homes, he says. It’s the cheap imitation work that won’t last.

“There’s nowhere you go in the city that you don’t see our work,” Natoli says.

Pride, craftsmanship and artistic work are important values at Anvil Iron Works, which contribute to the business’ ongoing success.

Natoli says if he is fortunate enough, his son will eventually take over and Anvil Iron Works will be a fourth generation company that continues to keep the art of wrought iron alive in the city of Philadelphia.

Anvil Iron Works. 1022-26 Washington Avenue.

Philadelphia. 215.468.8300/1265 Little Mill Road. Erial NJ. 856.783.5959. anviliron.net ✽

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 12:04:47 AM

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12/7/09 12:05:05 AM

PRHSPOTLIGHT

TAX CREDITS ARE HEATING UP

by CAMPANO HVAC

W

ith the cold weather upon us, it is time to check the status of your heating system say the experts at Campano HVAC. Whether you need routine maintenance and service or want to upgrade your current system to energy-efficient standards, now is the time to make that investment.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed into law earlier this year, homeowners can realize federal tax credits for investing in energy efficient upgrades.

Incentives cover appliances like hot water boilers with efficiencies of 90 percent AFUE and above that are installed in the taxpayerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principle home between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.

In an effort to further optimize those savings, Campano HVAC has partnered with Weil-McLain to offer customers high-efficiency Ultra Series 3 Gas boilers (sizes 80, 105, 155 & 230) that qualify for a 30 percent tax credit up to $1,500 (aggregate of all energy upgrades).

Participating homeowners need only save their sales receipt and WeilMcLainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Manufacturer Certification Statement.

In a similar partnership with Trane, Campano HVAC offers highefficiency gas furnaces* and air conditioning equipment* that qualify for the tax credits.

The tax credit applies as a direct reduction of taxes owed. In the past, the IRS directed taxpayers to use Form 5695 (the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit). It is expected that the IRS will produce new rules related to the recently enacted stimulus legislation, giving taxpayers further guidance on claiming tax credits.

To fully understand how the new tax credit may apply to you and what you can do to obtain one, you should consult with a tax professional for advice on tax preparation as this tax credit is subject to IRS regulations.

For additional information please contact Campano HVAC at 215.238.0570 to discuss all of the energy-efficient options and spe-

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PRHSPOTLIGHT cial financing available. Campano HVAC has been serving the Greater Philadelphia Area since 1967. ✽ *The federal guidelines for energyefficiency are as follows: Split system air conditioning efficiency requirements’ 16 SEER/13 EER (both efficiency levels must be met to qualify for the tax credit). Split system heat pump efficiency requirements – 15 SEER/12.5 EER/8.5 HSPF (all three efficiency levels must be met to qualify for the tax credit). Gas furnace qualifying levels ‘ 95% AFUE. Packaged A/C, H/P, or dual fuel products – 14 SEER, 12 EER, 8 HSPF.

Special Energy-Efficient Rebates & Financing Available!

Call 215.238.0570 for more information.

Our family has been serving Philadelphia since 1967.

PECO’s Energy Saving Tips • Close the damper when not • • • • •

• •

•

•

using the fireplace Turn your heater down when the fireplace is on Set your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower during the day (health permitting) Set your thermostat lower at night or when you will be away for more than 4 hours Open drapes on sunny days to help warm the rooms Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees or “Low.” (140 degrees or “Medium” if your dishwasher doesn’t have its own heating element) Wash “full” loads in the dishwasher, washer & dryer Use ceiling fans to re-circulate warm air (check your Owner’s manual for proper directional setting) Use the energy-saver, air-dry cycle on your dishwasher or open the door to let dishes dry naturally Remove window screens and install storm windows

So whenever you need us, we’re here for all your heating, cooling and plumbing needs - from scheduled maintenance and repairs to top quality installations.

Air Conditioning | Heating | Plumbing 820 Montrose Street | Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 | v: 215.238.0570 | f: 215.238.0520 lic# 4272

Visit PECO.COM for more information.

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PRHSPOTLIGHT

ACCENT ON ARRANGEMENTS

by BRITTANY ESSER

N

ot only do fresh flowers make beautiful gifts, they can inspire, create and enhance the décor of any room in your house.

“Flowers are a wonderful and adaptable accessory in every home,” explains Joann Vacca, owner of The Petal Pusher Florist & Decorators. “They can change the look, alter the mood and accent your décor with just subtle differences. They are a reflection of your personality and can make your home your own.”

Color. Color is a very significant aspect to floral arrangements because various hues inspire specific emotions. Red and orange flowers invite fun and excitement as opposed to more classic shades of whites and blues. Add candles and berries to emphasize your displays.

Fragrance. When selecting the perfect blooms to accentuate your event or home, keep in mind that scent is as prominent as style. Some flowers, like roses, carnations, freesia and gardenias have a heavier fragrance than sunflowers, pompoms and other blossoms.

Let your florist be your guide. Custom arrangements can suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Seasonal flowers are less expensive than exotic imports from Holland and South America, Vacca explains. But a combination of color and blooms can create the look you want for the best price. Keep in mind, however, that exotic flowers like Birds of Paradise, Orchids and Anthuriums tend to last longer (up to two weeks) than domestic flowers (7 days), she adds.

Vacca says The Petal Pusher receives shipments of imported flowers every Monday and fresh flowers daily to ensure their arrangements are always at their healthiest stages. Blooming plants are also available upon order.

Looking to spruce up the look of your home this season? The simplicity and beauty of fresh flowers can do the trick at a price you can afford.

The Petal Pusher Florist is located at 2515 S. Broad Street in Philadelphia. 215.463.5485. Owners John & Joann Vacca celebrate 40 years of business this year. ✽

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PRHSPOTLIGHT

T ICE SKATE ON THE RIVER!

he Delaware River Waterfront Corporation is proud to continue to present a wintertime tradition in Philadelphia, the 16th anniversary season of the Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing. It’s time to Think Rink, as the Blue Cross RiverRink, located on Columbus Boulevard and Market Street, is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors and the cool way to stay fit!

Regular skating session hours at the Blue Cross RiverRink are Monday to Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Friday hours: 6:00 p.m.

– 8:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., and 11:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. Saturday hours are: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., and 11:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. and Sunday hours are: 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Special Holiday Hours and other extended sessions are outlined at www.riverrink.com. Skating admission is extremely affordable at $8 and skate rental is available for $3. Convenient parking is also available on site for only $10.

The rink season also features a live DJ every Friday and Saturday night from 9:00 p.m. – Midnight. Skating Lessons are available on Sunday mornings from 10:30 a.m. – 12 Noon. Special Sled Skating Sessions for people with disabilities are available Sunday from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Reservations for these special sessions are required. To make a reservation for skating lessons or sled skating sessions, call 215-925-RINK. Independence Blue Cross is the founding and presenting sponsor of the Blue Cross RiverRink, which is owned and operated by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Season long supporters include: TD Bank, CBS 3 and the CW Philly and the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation. ✽

We keep it simple. Call for a free estimate today!

Design Builders Assoc Inc. ✱ New Construction ✱ Commercial Projects

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

✱ General Construction ✱ Construction Management ✱ Demolition/Excavation ✱ Foundations/Masonry ✱ Framing/Trim/Millwork ✱ Drywall and Paint ✱ Kitchens and Bathrooms ✱ Basements and Additions ✱ Electrical/Plumbing/HVAC ✱ Custom Decks Design Builders Assoc Inc. Phone: 215-744-9800 Fax: 215-744-4047

design.builders@yahoo.com www.designbuildersinc.com

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PRHREAL STATE

On the

Location 1010 McKean Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 Listed Price $329,000

BLOCK

19148 photos by REBECCA SAVEDOW

This refurbed rowhome in the Passyunk Square neighborhood district is located in one of the top three of the nation’s “15 Hottest Zip Codes for Home Prices” according to a recent CNBC report.

Three bedrooms, 1.5 baths and a finished basement with a laundry room and powder room are only half the story.

Crown moldings, hardwood floors and a 4-piece ceramic tile bath will keep you interested.

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12/8/09 2:41:40 PM

PRHREAL STATE "OUIPOZÂľT *UBMJBO $PGGFF )PVTF JT UIF DFMFCSBUJPO PG B DFOUVSZ MPOH 'BNJMZ 5SBEJUJPO PG &YDFMMFODF JO 1IJMBEFMQIJBÂľT *UBMJBO .BSLFU 0XOFE PQFSBUFE CZ UIF UI (FO FSBUJPO PG UIF "OBTUBTJP 'BNJMZ "OUIPOZÂľT *UBMJBO $PGGFF )PVTF JT 1IJMBEFMQIJBÂľT 1SFNJFS *UBMJBO $BGn GFBUVSJOH UIF BSFBÂľT GJOFTU TFMFDUJPO PG $PGGFFT $IPDPMBUFT BOE (FMBUP -PDBUFE JO PVS 'BNJMZÂľT PSJHJOBM SFUBJM TUPSF PO UIF *UBMJBO .BSLFU "OUIPOZÂľT *UBMJBO $PGGFF )PVTF OPX PGGFST OBUJPOXJEF TIJQQJOH PG PVS TQFDJBMUZ QSPEVDUT GPS BMM UP FOKPZÂąXIFUIFS ZPVÂľSF BDSPTT UPXO PS BDSPTT DPVOUSZ

The kitchen beckons with 42-inch cabinets, granite counters, sills & floor, glass tile backsplash, island sink and stainless appliances.

Surely youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy the central air, recessed lighting and ceiling fans.

Property taxes? About $1,200.

*UBMJBO $PGGFF )PVTF 4 UI TU $IPDPMBUF )PVTF 4 UI 4U 0QFO %BZT B 8FFL .BJM 0SEFS

What are you waiting for?

Call Anthony or Theresa Criniti at A. Criniti Realty.

1633 East Passyunk Avenue. Philadelphia. Pa. 19148.

215.465.4225.

www.ItalianCoďŹ&#x20AC;eeHouse.com

www.cedronesflowers.com

Philadelphia Zip Codes rank at top of national â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hot Spotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; list According to a recent report by CNBC, Philadelphia Zip Codes 19145 and 19148 ranked at the top of a nationwide list of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;15 Hottest Zip Codes for Home Prices.â&#x20AC;?

The Study, provided by real estate Internet resource site Zillow.com ranks 19145 at #2 and 19148 at #3 for â&#x20AC;&#x153;best home values.â&#x20AC;? It also provides valuable market information and pertinent statistics for prospective homeowners and investors interested in jumping on the Philadelphia bandwagon.

The Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 19145 area reflects a Year-overYear Price Growth of 19.1 percent with the Zillow Home Value Index at $144,558 while the 19148 area reports a Year-over-Year Price Growth of 16.9 percent and a Zillow Home Value Index at $164,661.

- Compiled by Lauren Gordon

Cedroneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowers For A Dream Come True Wedding, Have The Flowers That Best Symbolize A Love That Will Last a Lifetime.

For an appointment call 215.629.9858 or 800.928.9858 Hear The King Weekly

Have the

King DJ Your Affair!

LIVE broadcast every Friday night 6 to 10 pm WNJC 1360am radio in the Delaware Valley and simulcasts LIVE on the net www.destinationdoowop.com www.wnjc1360.com call in for requests 215.413.0240 or email King Arthur at kingofdoowop@comcast.net

At reasonable rates... book now for the best dates.

King Arthur Radio Personality Master of Ceremonies

l Corporate Events l Weddings l Banquets l Reunions l Anniversaries

For bookings call

215.925.5795 Call for radio advertisements

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affair

TO REMEMBER

2009 SALUTE TO SERVICE

BLUE SAPPHIRE AWARD

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PRH names its 2009 Blue Sapphire Award Winners AS PART OF ITS ANNUAL “SALUTE TO SERVICE,” PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE (PRH) RECENTLY PRESENTED SIX INDIVIDUALS WITH ITS 2009 BLUE SAPPHIRE AWARD IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR SELFLESS DEDICATION TO THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA AND THE INDELIBLE MARK THEY’VE LEFT ON OUR CITY OF NEIGHBORHOODS FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. THE AWARD, PRESENTED DURING THE MAGAZINE’S ANNUAL “AFFAIR TO REMEMBER,” A BLACK TIE BUSINESS NETWORKING GALA SPONSORED BY CESCAPHE BALLROOM, HONORS PEOPLE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE PRESERVATION OF THE CITY’S CULTURE, HISTORY AND DIVERSITY OF LIFESTYLES. THEIR PASSIONATE COMMITMENT TO THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA CONTINUES TO INSPIRE GENERATION AFTER GENERATION, ATTESTING TO THE FACT THAT ALL GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS BEGIN WITH A DREAM, ACCORDING TO SISTER PUBLISHERS DORETTE ROTA JACKSON AND DAWN RHOADES. THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS HAVE BEEN NAMED PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE’S 2009 BLUE SAPPHIRE AWARD RECIPIENTS:

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2009 Blue Sapphire Award

Gandolfo grew up in South Philadelphia and attended St. Maria Goretti High School. In 1971, she graduated from Temple University with a B.S. in Communications. After graduation, she worked for WFIL-AM and WCAU-AM.

Entertainment

SID MARK Radio Show Host, The Sounds of Sinatra Sid Mark is the nation’s leading authority when it comes to the music of Frank Sinatra.

He has the largest collection of Sinatra recordings anywhere outside of Frank’s own private vaults – more than 1800 individual song titles on vinyl records and 200 compact discs. Sid Mark has been treating Philadelphia audiences to the music of Ol’ Blue Eyes for more than 50 years. His “Friday with Frank,” “Saturday with Sinatra” and “Sunday with Sinatra” shows are America’s longest running radio programs with the same host. Sid’s personal relationship with Sinatra began more than 30 years ago. His programs feature exclusive tapes of conversations with Frank and many of his show business contemporaries. Sid’s programs have led to the national syndication of “The Sounds of Sinatra,” now heard on more than 100 radio stations from coast to coast. Sid Mark’s Sinatra programs are special because he offers more than just Frank’s remarkable music. Sid adds fascinating insights into Sinatra’s career with personal anecdotes and stories behind the music. Today, Sid can be heard three times a week on Philadelphia’s Big Talker 1210 AM.

She began her career in news in 1973 when she became part-time news broadcaster for WIFI-FM in Philadelphia. Her years of experience include the openings of the first Casino Hotels in Atlantic City. She has reported from several National Conventions and has been sent to the Vatican City to cover Catholic Church issues and their connections to the Church in the Philadelphia area.

authored The Eagles Encyclopedia (2005) and Football America: Celebrating Our National Passion (1996). He also wrote “The Super Bowl: Celebrating a Quarter-Century of America’s Greatest Game.” (1990) Currently, Ray co-hosts (with Glen Macnow) the Saturday show on WIP-AM Sports Radio and is a full-time member of csnphilly.com, writing articles and appearing on-air in a variety of roles, most prominently as a panelist on the Eagles PostGame Live Show with Governor Ed Rendell, Vaughn Hebron and Michael Barkann. Previously, Didinger was a senior producer with NFL Films where he won four Emmys for his work as a writer and producer on the weekly series NFL Films Presents and the Turner Network documentary Football America. The Temple grad has been named Pennsylvania Sportswriter of the Year five times; has six Keystone Press Association Awards for feature writing; and three Associated Press awards for column writing. In 1991, he won the Pro Football Writers of America Award for outstanding feature story about dissension among the 1990 Eagles – the final year under head coach Buddy Ryan. Ray is married to writer Maria Gallagher, a restaurant critic for Philadelphia Magazine. Both are very active with HeavenSent Bulldog Rescue.

Harry Kalas Memorial Award, Sports

RAY DIDINGER Sportswriter, TV Commentator, Pro Football Hall of Fame

RowHome Grown

CATHY GANDOLFO News Reporter, Action News Cathy Gandolfo joined WPVI-TV in September 1975 as a writer for Action News.

In 1977, she was promoted to general assignment reporter and the following year she became New Jersey Correspondent. Miss

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Ray Didinger has been covering football since the age of 23 when he took over the pro football beat at the Bulletin (1968-1980) and Daily News (1980-1996). An award-winning sportswriter, author, film writer, radio co-host, TV commentator and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Didinger co-

gohomephilly.com

Service to Community

MICHAEL TOKLISH President, Friends of Jefferson Square Park Named after President Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson Square is a Classic 19th Century American Strolling Park bordered by Federal Street and Washington Avenue/3rd and 4th Streets. Originally constructed in the early

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TO REMEMBER

19th century, the park was used by the Union Army as an encampment site during the Civil War. As president of the Friends of Jefferson Square Park, Toklish spearheaded the revitalization of the park, investing countless hours and tallying numerous personal sacrifices to refurbish this historic green space. The result: new benches, wastebaskets, the restoration of water service, installation of 10 new trees, landscaping and the installation of cast iron urns at its entrance. With Michael at its helm, The Friends host concerts, outdoor movies, flea markets and volunteer clean-ups in their efforts to foster a community awareness of the park, its history and its treasures—providing a common ground for the diverse community that surrounds it.

Business Success Story

ED SABOL Filmmaker & Founder, NFL Films

STEVE SABOL President & Founder, NFL Films In 1962, Ed Sabol ditched his job as an overcoat salesman, used his savings to start Blair Motion Pictures and secured the rights to that year’s NFL championship game. A fast start, but the company really came into its own in 1965 with the debut of ‘They Call It Pro Football,’ a documentary created primarily by Ed’s son Steve. Commissioner Pete Rozelle loved the film so much, he convinced the owners of the 14 NFL teams to put up $20,000 apiece to buy Blair and turn it into NFL Films. Forty years and 91 Emmys later, NFL Films, based in Mount Laurel, N.J., is an anomaly: a $50 million family business embedded within a multibillion-dollar operation. Ed is retired but Steve, 63, continues to march the company down the field. NFL Films introduced everything that’s become a cliché in NFL film footage: montage editing, bloopers, super slo mo, original music, even keeping a camera on the quarterback after he throws a pass. They were also the first to mike a coach, the Eagles’ Joe Kuharich. The Sabols were honored recently with the placement of an historic marker outside its original Center City Headquarters (1965-1981) at 230 N. 13th St. (Source: Inc. Magazine, February 2006) Recipients of the 2008 Blue Sapphire Award were: JERRY BLAVAT, Geator Gold Radio & Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee DR. JACK CARR, Founder, Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) REV. GARY PACITTI, Pastor, Annunciation BVM Church SHARON PINKENSON, Executive Director, Greater Philadelphia Film Office ED SNIDER, Chairman, Comcast-Spectacor

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PRHBUSINESS

SOCIAL NEWS NETWORKS CHANGE YOUR POINT OF VIEW

by DANIEL P. SAMA

Y

ou may be familiar with Social Networking websites like Facebook and Twitter, which keep you connected with friends past and present. These services focus on building online communities of users who share like-minded interests and activities. Innovative technology entrepreneurs are applying this same concept to what is being dubbed as “Social News” which is revolutionizing how the average person views and obtains their news. Traditional means of staying updated on current events, like the evening news or the newspaper, seem to have fallen by the wayside in favor of a more convenient, customizable and interactive experience.

One of the pioneering Social News websites at the forefront of this transformation is Digg.com.

Digg is a Social News website made for people to share links and submit stories by voting and commenting on these stories and links. Users determine which stories appear on the front page of Digg.com via the digging and burying system. If a user finds a story particularly newsworthy, they give it their approval by “digging” the story or disapproval by “burying” the link. The website also provides topic-specific filters and news customization so the community of users stays current on topics of interest. Quite a far cry from sifting through a newspaper or watching the more conventional evening news.

Digg’s model for user-generated news has helped stimulate an evolution in the way we view and obtain our news in the modern day. We are currently seeing a trend among traditional news media outlets like ESPN, NBC and Comcast. All are adapting their

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stream of news to a more social media-like friendly approach with news anchors creating Twitter and Facebook accounts to reach this new demographic that is acquiring news online.

The influences of Internet bloggers, groups and websites with large followings have a great deal of swing in the court of “Internet public opinion.” This translates to search engine trends, which culminates into millions of dollars in marketing and advertising revenue for companies looking to target this demographic. Social News can be a tremendously valuable marketing tool for those who are intuitive enough to take advantage of the diverse community of users involved.

While Social News is still arguably in its infancy, there are quite a few challenges to overcome.

Maintaining credibility while balancing a reasonable level of user contribution and interactivity is still a contentious topic in technology circles. Critics of the Social News model continue to debate over users having too much control over news content, which, they allege, facilitates a sense of sensationalism and allows misinformation to thrive. Likewise, Google struggled similarly during its early years and has since evolved into a multi-billion dollar public corporation. While Digg has yet to experience Google-level notoriety, it continues to effectively push Social News to the forefront of the Internet.

Daniel P. Sama is an experienced Network Administrator, Information Systems Consultant, PC Technician and Entrepreneur currently living in Philadelphia. Daniel is also a featured technology critic for Macworld.com and Macworld Magazine. ✽

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GENERATION U AN EXPRESSION FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

by JOAN ROMAN

I

never thought of myself as much of a writer until recently. Writing has always been a leading form of self- expression but now more than ever, the sentences you choose tell the world what you stand for. From your first text to your last status update, your words provide the masses with a definition of your character.

For the first time in centuries, writing is providing us with the freedom we need to be ourselves. And technology is forcing us to write out loud.

Generation U is a term weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve chosen to describe our technology savvy generationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the first to progress into adulthood with a technobased upbringing. Unlike Generation Y before us, we, the babes of the Boomers, have a complete understanding of everything electronic.

Referred to as â&#x20AC;&#x153;millennial,â&#x20AC;? many are curious to see how we, as a generation, will lead the way of the future. The result, as I see it, is revolutionary. An opportunity to reclaim the power of our imagination, take pride in our invention and bask in the glory of self-made success.

An expression for entrepreneurship, Generation U is a fight for the right to do YOU. As future business leaders, we stand for collaboration while creating independence through our band of brotherhood. The purpose of this editorial is to honor the young professionals who are taking advantage of their resources and walking right through the back door of success. Your Rowhome grown accomplishers doing it just the way they were raisedâ&#x20AC;Śto knock politely then walk right in.

A lot can be said about working with your friends and family. Success is a crusade and it is important to choose your army wisely. Working with people who know you can help you keep sight of your goals without losing yourself. When Uranium Film Productions began its campaign for Generation U, we wanted to integrate fashion with media. We started out by designing a custom tee and apparel line that reinvented casualty clothing. The first partnership we sought grew up right down the street.

Monica Mullet, 24, and Janae Di Donato, 25, owners of AciNae Boutique on East Passyunk Avenue, have a way of customizing not just their clothes but their entire environment. As I interview them, (pretty

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ironic considering weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been to each othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 13 birthday parties) the girls are sitting outside their storefront hand-painting mirrors for their boutique. I immediately recognize their passion for this business venture theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve chosen. Janae and Monica first met in high school while taking sewing classes at St. Maria Goretti. After school, they spent their time working in boutiques and making clothes for their friends. Even at such a young age, the girls realized they shared a common vision. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We push forth on each other. From licensing, designing, networkingâ&#x20AC;Ś since the beginning of time, it has been us, me & Janae,â&#x20AC;? Monica says very matter-of-factly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sure, it can get tough but we always handle it.â&#x20AC;?

It is noticeable that they bring out the best in each other. â&#x20AC;&#x153;AciNae officially started when I was working at Blondieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on South Street,â&#x20AC;? Janae explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was asked by a 25-year-old to help with a fashion show. I was 15 at the time,â&#x20AC;? she smiles. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew Monica was into fashion so I called her for help and we pulled it off.â&#x20AC;? They have continued to pull it off ever since.

Janae and Monica had a budding fashion line, a dynamic partnership and a promising future all before they graduated high school. From an apprenticeship with the Mummers organization to front row seats for fashion week in Italy and Paris, the girls made it a priority to see and be seen. Their objective? To open a store - a specialty boutique - that was different from all the others by way of its sensible â&#x20AC;&#x153;comfortability.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before furniture in my apartment, I had a sewing machine,â&#x20AC;? Monica states with pride. Clearly, she made the right choice.

About to celebrate its second birthday in February, AciNae Boutique currently dresses more than 400 clients, is one of the founding businesses responsible for the revitalization of the Avenue and is the leading contributor towards bringing the Generation U movement to life through custom wear. From swimsuits to wedding dresses, Monica and Janae are quickly building a reputation as the go-to girls for making fashion fantasies a reality. In addition to their own designs, AciNae has also become a â&#x20AC;&#x153;houseâ&#x20AC;? for local Indie designers to showcase their pieces. Practicing collaboration over competition, the girls are an obvious reflection of rowhome grown hospitality.

Together we can climb walls not crash into them. In my opinion, entrepreneurship means having a strong instinct for life. Having the ability to reproduce fearlessness for accomplishment by your willingness to do anything and everything. When I asked the girls what they thought it meant to be entrepreneurs they answered, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always creating, always updating.â&#x20AC;? Then Janae giggled and declared that she was making the phrase her new facebook status.

The thing about writing is the actual doing of it. Getting started is half the battle. The other half is your staying power. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re writing an email, designing a tee or building an enterprise, you should always say what you mean and mean what you say. In a world of text messages and tweets, make it a priority to keep up with your wit, wisdom & wordplay. However, in true entrepreneurial fashion, I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but ask myself how do you narrate a revolution? Well now, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just take that one issue at a time.

Uranium Film Productions is a multi-faceted film/entertainment company comprised of diverse minds that specialize in the development and production of cutting edge media in all forms of global entertainment. Our vision is to collaborate with artists/producers alike, distributing projects to the masses that will provide quality entertainment audiences can believe in. â&#x153;˝

Introducing...

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Cathy Gandolfo

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PHOTOS BY MARIA MERLINO

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1.-Goretti graduates Sarah Canuso and WPVI’s Cathy Gandolfo enjoy the festivities at the Taste of South Philadelphia with Sarah’s husband and Republican Chair, Vito Canuso. 2.-RowHome Magazine’s Affair to Remember: IBEW Local 98 member Bob Hamilton, David H. Conroy Esq., Blue Sapphire Honoree Cathy Gandolfo, Variety Club Board Member Ken Adams & Training Director for Local 98 Michael Neil. 3.-Action News reporter Cathy Gandolfo visits with friends from her old neighborhood on Wilder Street - Barbara Santoro, Ann Vicario, Elsie Capitano. 4.-6 ABC Reporter Cathy Gandolfo with brothers John Gandolfo and David Gandolfo

A PLAN OF ACTION

by MARIA MERLINO photo by PHIL KRAMER

“I

t was 1976,” she reminisces. “I was hosting the Columbus Day Parade. Frank Rizzo was the mayor then. I was interviewing him and he asked, ‘What did you say your name was?’”

Those days of anonymity are long gone for 6ABC Action News reporter Cathy Gandolfo, who has since achieved many milestones in her stellar career including induction into the esteemed Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame.

A graduate of St. Maria Goretti High School, this neighborhood girl who made good in the neighborhood has only fond memories of family, friends and the years she spent growing up in the city she calls ‘home.’

“When I first started out, I interviewed with different radio stations,” she says. “One of them told me that women’s voices weren’t suitable for the air.”

Not one to be discouraged, good news came from WFIL-AM, home of Power House Boss Jocks Dr. Don Rosen, Jim O’Brien and Brother Love.

“I worked in the traffic department and booked commercials. The department was all women,” she adds. “I was hired for $85 a week.

The money was really pathetic for a college graduate. Nixon was president and there was a moratorium on raises. The boss gave me $50 out of his pocket.”

When she became a full-time TV reporter in 1977, her weekly salary zoomed to $300.

The baby girl to John and Edith and little sister to John and David, Gandolfo’s memories of the neighborhood are an obvious source of sentiment. Baptized at Annunciation Church, she was just another

happy kid on the block of 800 Wilder Street.

Neighbors Barbara Santoro, Ann Vicario and Elsie Capitano have fond recollections of the long-haired little lass who climbed the ladder to her current post as New Jersey Correspondent at Action News.

Santoro lets me know that “Cathy was a good girl. We brushed her hair when she was a child. She was always carrying around her guitar.”

“She took good care of her parents. They were beautiful people.”

Vicario adds. “Cathy never forgot her roots. She never became a snob.”

“She still calls to find out how we are doing. That’s the kind of person she is,” Capitano interjects.

Attending St. Maria Goretti High School, Gandolfo made history when she played the first guitar Mass there. “My mother played the piano so I was exposed to music. One day, my brother John brought home a guitar. I picked it up and learned how to play it on my own.”

An active member of the Advisory Board of Sts. John Neumann & Maria Goretti High School, Cathy has warm memories of her student days. “The experience helped me be who I am. It was part of my education and I made some of the best friends.”

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine recently presented Gandolfo with a 2009 Blue Sapphire Award in its “RowHome Grown” category, commemorating the impact she’s made via her career and whose “selfless dedication to the City of Philadelphia has left an indelible mark on the culture and traditions of our neighborhoods for future generations to enjoy.” ✽ Maria Merlino lives in and writes about South Philadelphia

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POLITICS

Judge Annette Rizzo

SAVING HOMES ONE ADDRESS AT A TIME

by MARIA MERLINO

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n 1683, Philadelphia had only 80 dwelling houses. The first one was built on Front Street between Walnut and Dock by a man named Sven. They were part of the original Swede population, the first permanent settlers that occupied these homes. The Delaware Indian population – about 10,000 –12,000 – lived in camps and isolated villages throughout the area. By 1845, the Lenape tribe had been re-located. So had the Swedes. With the rapid increase in available land, the city and its liberties grew to 260,000 citizens. Housing boomed.

Unless they were moneyed, many homeowners got a common law mortgage, a French phrase meaning dead pledge—the debt was absolute. The dilemma with this arrangement was that the lender was the absolute owner of the property and could sell it or refuse to re-convey it to the weakly situated borrower. The law’s position was altered so that the borrower would retain ownership and equity of the property but the rights of the lender—the power to foreclose, the right to take possession and the power of sale—would be protected.

Last July, Philadelphia had a population of 1,447,395 people living in 455,035 houses - many of them in blocks of small rowhouses. A little more than half of these homes are owned. The remaining are either rentals or vacant.

Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge Annette Rizzo grew up in a typical rowhouse in South Philadelphia. She received her sacra-

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ments at St. Monica’s Church and lived in the parish.

“My parents owned their home. South Philadelphia is not like the sunbelt,” I’m clued in. “We have older construction, here. You will find families that have passed down the house for generations.

Unfortunately, foreclosures are becoming more common due to major life events, the economy and a shift in financial dependency.”

In 2008, there were approximately 10,000 mortgage foreclosure complaints filed in the city of Philadelphia. That April, Sheriff John Green announced that they would not proceed with the Sheriff’s Sale list for that month. Understanding the urgency, by June, the efforts of the Honorable Annette M. Rizzo and the Honorable C. Darnell Jones (now a federal judge), along with the support of City Officials, the First Judicial Court developed the Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Pilot Program. “The goal,” a gratified Rizzo conveyed, “was simple. Save homes in Philadelphia one address at a time”.

Resolutions can come in the form of forbearance, a stay of sale, a settlement of the entire action, a loan modification, a loan reinstatement and payment plans. I’m let in on another decision. “We might do a “graceful exit” where leaving the property is the best thing but the person can stay for a time and get money for moving. Arrangements can come out of it,” the Judge assures me. “People have been in rough spots. For instance, there has been an increase in real estate scams. Sometimes there are title issues. A bridge loan might be required. People need to move forward with the help of our volunteer lawyers.”

Judge Rizzo has mobilized more than 250 lawyers through

Community Legal Services, Philadelphia Legal Assistance and Philadelphia VIP to provide representation to low-income homeowners free of charge.

With 11,600 homes affected, only 1600 are on the chopping block. Of the remaining 10,000, a third are in the ‘postponement with a purpose’ stage and the rest are in conferences. Every case has challenges. Giving props, the Judge wants us to know that “We are blessed with housing counselors.”

The exceptionally successful program has now become the national model. Not a day goes by without calls from outside jurisdictions requesting more information. They want to find out what makes this program such a winner.

With the wheels always turning, a forward-minded Rizzo saw the future. “What’s evolving now is a “loss mitigation” conference where the party doesn’t have to be in default and the lender can make modifications.” Anticipating continued support for the program next year, Rizzo takes an absolute stand.

“In these extraordinary times, the sanctity of the home is the measure of society.” ✽ Judge Annette Rizzo was commissioned to the bench for the First Judicial District in January 1999 and elected to the bench in November 1999. She previously practiced in private, government and corporate settings. Judge Rizzo was president of her class at Girls High, is a cum laude graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and received her juris doctorate from Temple University School of Law.

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COFFEE CHRONICLES

by LAUREN GORDON photos by REBECCA SAVEDOW

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or as long as I can remember, my parents have snubbed most cups of coffee outside the instant in our kitchen. So when I handed my mother a bag of Anthony Anastasio’s freshly ground personal blend of “Italian Market Reserve,” the battle of the brew ensued. I knew I had my work cut out for me.

A few nights later, my mother invited me to join her evening coffee ritual. “It’s that Italian Market coffee you brought home. I’m on my fifth cup today.” I am speechless. My mother is a coffee convert.

The bold, rich taste is unlike any other I had tried.

Which is what led Anthony Anastasio to open Anthony’s Italian Coffee House back in 1995.

“We wanted to create a place of gathering,” he explained. “It was really the inspiration after spending some time in Rome, sipping coffee in the Piazza. I thought a true Italian coffee house would be awesome for our neighborhood and community.”

Anthony is not the first member of the Anastasio family to bring a taste of Italy to Philadelphia. In 1915, his greatgrandfather opened the first of many Anastasio-owned businesses by way of selling fresh fish and produce off a pushcart. In the 1920s, they opened Anastasio’s Seafood, a fresh fish market that still stands today, followed by a produce store on the site of the coffee house.

“We began truly educating ourselves about coffee,” Anthony explains. “Unfortunately, the Internet was not as popular then as it is today so we did a lot of research.

We studied European companies and we had some customers who were educated in coffee and in roast coffee and taught us their ways… that is actually how we ended up developing nine of our own blends.”

In addition to its memorable blends of coffee roasted to Anthony’s own specifications, Anthony’s Coffee

House features a variety of baked delicacies including traditional family recipes and featured items from the neighborhood’s finest bakeries.

When Anthony returned to Italy for his honeymoon, he said he fell in love with other Italian delights, like gelato – ice cream made from milk, gelatin, sugar and fruit. For several years, Anthony’s served authentic gelato he purchased from a small local company started by a trio of Italian businessmen. When his vendors decided to close shop and head back to Europe, Anthony said he worked closely with his master chef to perfect the recipe and eventually purchased the gelato portion of their business.

“We started out with your basic 20 vanilla/chocolate flavors,” Anthony admits, “ but due to our surroundings - our Market - we had a gamut of flavors at our hands so we began to get a little creative. Now we have unique flavors like Pumpkin Pie, Olive Oil and Rose Petal gelatos.”

Amid the old photographs of Anthony’s ancestors and vintage Italian Market memorabilia, customers find the solace of an old friend’s living room at this coffee house. Anthony says he is proud to keep the culture and spirit of the Italian Market and his family business alive for future generations.

“I especially just feel so privileged to own a spot in the Italian Market,” he adds with a distinct sincerity.

“To be where my grandfather was, and to be working side by side with the same families that we have for years. We are here every day, down in the trenches working to keep our street alive and our traditions going. It’s a lot of fun.” ✽ Anthony’s Italian Coffee House & Chocolate House. 903 S. 9th Street. 1.800.833.5030. www.italiancoffeehouse.com.

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MI PAL’S FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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Gangemi Funeral Home, Inc.

by LAUREN GORDON photos by REBECCA SAVEDOW & HECTOR VALENTIN

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very morning at 8, Peter Palestino helps open the doors to the family-owned business—a ritual he’s repeated for the past 20 of the 25 years Mi Pal’s Deli has been around.

Like most neighborhood delis, this corner store’s aisles are cramped with customers’ favorite condiments, chips and mostsought-after supplies. All conveniently located within walking distance of their homes. Or a phone call away for those who need a delivery.

Every day, Peter fries up a breakfast sandwich or pieces together a fresh hoagie that he carefully builds with layer after layer of succulent Boars Head luncheon meats and other imported products. The aromas of fresh gravy and chicken cutlets seal your fate. There’s no leaving this place without food.

Once in awhile, Peter steps outside the store to wave at honking cars or shoot the breeze with almost everyone who walks by.

Peter’s proud of the fact that he and his brothers know so many people in the neighborhood. And he’s quick to point out the customers they’ve accumulated outside the immediate area. Corporate clients like the Philadelphia Wings, Comcast SportsNet’s Eagles PostGame Live crew and several pharmaceutical companies.

PRHTHE MENU He talks about the trays of hot and cold food that they deliver on a daily basis. A variety of catered specialties made-to-order for office luncheons or business meetings.

There are several trays sitting on the counter awaiting the return of the deliveryman. “A customer ordered a few trays for a family in the neighborhood. Their mother just passed away.” He explains this timehonored tradition of sending trays of food to people who are grieving over the loss of a loved one. “Gives the family less to worry about while they are grieving,” Peter explains.

“When a customer of ours passes away, we automatically send a tray over to the family, compliments of Mi Pal’s,” Peter explains as he sits on a milk crate outside the deli. “As other orders are called in, we work within every customer’s budget to make sure they get what they want and are satisfied with their selections before the trays are delivered.

We also let customers know when selected items already have been sent to the family so they can choose something else from the menu, he explains.

They may decide to send something else, like a tray of baked ziti, chicken or eggplant parmigiana. Should a number of orders be delivered to the same family, we advise customers to postpone their food delivery

for a week or so. “It gives families a chance to enjoy a quiet, home-cooked meal after such an emotional experience,” he said.

It is this meticulous care and attention to detail, assures Peter, that has kept Mi Pal’s a favored business for so long. About 15 years ago, when the companies were a lot smaller, Mi Pal’s started filling orders for a few pharmaceutical reps, Peter explains. As the companies grew, so did the orders. Mi Pal’s now fills catering orders for large business luncheons and corporate events. Everything from hoagie trays to sausage & peppers, eggplant rolette and Chicken Marsala find their way into the boardrooms of some of the largest corporate giants in the region.

“It’s really important to pay attention to detail because if you don’t, you will lose a customer,” he says matter-offactly, “We take care of everything for them. You have to stay in front of your clients so they know that you can cater to both large and small groups. And, of course, the food is always good… consistently delicious.”

“We put a lot of TLC into our menu. We use only quality products. We don’t cut corners and our customers know that,” Peter assures. “ People keep coming back for the quality and consistency of our food. They know they can depend on us. You know that you are getting more than your money’s worth at Mi Pal’s. ✽

Season’s Greetings and Good Health in the New Year.

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SLICES OF SICILY & BUFFALO CHICKEN

by LAUREN GORDON photos by REBECCA SAVEDOW

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n the heart of the Italian Market, green grapes –“two bags for a dolla’!” – and fresh fish line the sidewalk en route to J&J’s South Philly Pizza, a slice of Sicilian heaven.

Amid the sounds of sizzling grills and chopping toppings, families, lovers and friends pull up a chair to the granite tables to enjoy a slice of gourmet pizza. While the phones keep ringing and five chefs keep cooking, there’s a distinct sense of comfortable chaos in the air.

And it is only 1:12 on a sunny Wednesday afternoon.

In the midst of it all, owner Giuseppe keeps a trained eye on his team’s

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PRHTHE MENU progress—offering advice and claps of encouragement against their backs. He realizes they’re only in the middle of another 14-hour day.

In pursuit of the American dream, Giuseppe and his family moved to Philadelphia from Sicily, leaving behind a supermarket and pizzeria.

They opened up their family’s first Pizzeria in Center City, which is still family owned and operated by Giuseppe’s father and brother.

“After a little while, we decided to get a place in the Italian Market, because you know, we’re Italian, from Sicily, so we figured what is a better place then being in the Italian Market?” Giuseppe explains as he dabs at a sweating brow.

When they took over J & J’s Pizzeria, they decided that they were going to do it right. They gutted the storefront building and turned it into the ceramic-tiled bistro with café chairs and a sparkling lineup of chrome & glass cases that display his gourmet delicacies like a collection of priceless art.

“We are so special because we are so fresh,” assures Giuseppe, “The meat is cut fresh every day. The cheese is grated fresh everyday… and we also got a couple of secret spices that we use in our pizza sauce.”

In Italy, Giuseppe and his family attended culinary school. When they moved to Philadelphia, they brought their love of Italian cuisine to the corner of 9th & Federal—a location that he and his family have grown to love “Because we worked as chefs, we know how to make authentic things like lobster ravioli, the best and right way,” asserts a confident Giuseppe.

And what better place to bring authentic Italian food than to the famed Italian Market? A place where people truly appreciate the taste of the fine foods that J&J’s provides—from pizzas and strombolis to salads, grinders, steaks and platters.

“We got the gourmet pizza to die for,” Giuseppe boasts with a genuine smile, “We have everything from pepperoni to pineapple & ham pizza.

But our best—hands down—has to be our buffalo chicken pizza.” A recipe that Giuseppe was kind enough to share with our PRH readers:

J&J’s Buffalo Chicken Pizza 1lb Dough 1lb Grated Mozzarella Cheese 2lb Fresh Chicken Breast 4 oz. Hot Sauce 8 oz. Blue Cheese 8 oz Pizza Sauce Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Sautee Chicken breast in salt, pepper and blue cheese. After chicken is thoroughly cooked, flatten out the pizza dough evenly into a round shape. Evenly distribute pizza sauce. Layer chicken, mozzarella cheese and hot sauce. Heat in oven for 7 minutes.

J&J’s South Philly Pizza, 9th & Federal Sts., 215.551.1260, www.J-Jpizza.com

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BREAKING BREAD

by LINDSAY BURGESS photos by KAROL ESCOBAR

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any native to the area will agree that there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into the crunchy, flaky crust of a freshly baked roll. With its white, fluffy center sheathed in a crisp, golden crust, the Italian confection has become a staple of our East Coast culinary repertoire. Perpetuating this local tradition in fine baking is A. Rando Bakery, an Atlantic City landmark that has been supplying traditional Italian baked goods to the surrounding region for 100 years.

The bakery opened its doors in 1909 under the ownership of Anthony Rando, a native of Italy who settled in Ducktown, Atlantic City, with his wife in 1908. The premier product was a large, one-pound loaf of traditional Italian bread. The menu continued to grow over the past century. The range of products now include sub and sandwich loaves, dinner rolls, twists, and the newest addition to the family menu: the par-baked loaf.

“We started making the par-baked bread in October of last year,” explained Stephen Rando, who manages A. Rando Bakery.

This innovative par-baked breadline started at the request of a customer, Mitch Levy, who planned on opening a sub shop in St. Augustine, Florida. He wanted to feature the famous Atlantic City bread in his store but needed an efficient way of retaining the “hotfrom-the-oven” taste of freshly baked bread.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that Atlantic City bread is the best. You can’t get it anywhere else,” Rando remarked.

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PRHTHE MENU So Stephen Rando and his crew set out to make the perfect longdistance loaves. They experimented with ways of creating a partially baked product that would stay fresh during the journey to Florida.

“You have to bake bread long enough so the yeast starts to rise,” Rando explained. “It has to get a bit of a crust on the outside… because it’s just like a cake. If you take a cake out of the oven too early, it’ll collapse. It’s the same thing with bread.”

After tweaking and re-tweaking the cooking time of the bread, Rando shipped a sample to ‘South A Philly,’ Mitch Levy’s sub shop.

It was an immediate hit. In fact, four days after the sample box arrived down south, Levy called the bakery with a request for 36 more cases.

He’s been supplying weekly shipments to ‘South A Philly’ ever since.

It has been a full year since the debut of A. Rando’s par-baked breadline and the market for this product has been thriving. Without

investing in an advertising or marketing campaign, A. Rando’s churns out close to a thousand bags a month in retail. And he has relied mainly on word-of-mouth to promote the newest baked good on their menu.

In addition to the convenience of having fresh loaves ready in a matter of minutes, Rando said this half-baked delicacy is a cost-efficient alternative to other breads.

“In these economic times, it’s a way for customers to cut down on costs and save money by decreasing their waste. At the same time, they have a fresh-from-the-oven product any time they want it.”

Since the bread doesn’t need to be baked at the beginning of the day, restaurants and hoagie shops can freeze the bread and pop loaves into the oven if they have a sudden rush of customers, Rando says. It cuts down on leftover loaves at the end of the day, which can make a big difference in the restaurant’s total costs.

In addition to the local Atlantic City eateries like the White House Sub Shop and Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern, eager sub enthusiasts can find A. Rando’s products at local Shop Rite stores. The bakery also takes orders by phone for consumers located more than a stone’s throw from the Atlantic City area.

Whether you’re in the mood for a good old-fashioned hoagie or are drooling at the thought of warm, golden dinner rolls, sink a few candles into a fresh loaf and help A. Rando Bakery celebrate its 100th birthday. ✽

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TRIPLE CROWN

by LOMBARDI PRIME MEATS Planning a family get-together or hosting a prime-time party? Celebrate with a sizzling crown roast, seasoned to perfection and guaranteed to be the center of attention at your fabulous feast.

Roast Prime Rib of Beef with Horseradish Crust Ingredients 1 bone-in prime rib beef roast (3 ribs, about 6 pounds) 5 garlic cloves, smashed 1/ c grated fresh or prepared horseradish 4 Leaves from 2 fresh rosemary sprigs Leaves from 4 fresh thyme sprigs 1/ c kosher salt 2 1/ c freshly ground black pepper 4 1/ c extra-virgin olive oil 2 1/ c dry white wine 2 1 tbs all-purpose flour 2 c canned chicken or beef broth Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lay the beef in a large roasting pan with the bone side down. (The ribs act as a natural roasting rack.) In a small bowl, mash together the garlic, horseradish, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper and olive oil to make a paste. Massage the paste generously over the entire roast. Put the pan in the oven and roast the beef until the internal temperature of the meat registers 125 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer (medium-rare - about 1 to 2 hours). Remove the beef to a carving board and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Add gravy Pour off some of the pan drippings and place pan on stovetop over medium-high heat. Add the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping the bits on the bottom of the pan. Reduce the wine by half. Whisk in the flour then add the broth and continue to cook, whisking until sauce thickens. (about 10 minutes)

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FUEL FUEL is a café right out of the hills of Hollywood dropped into South Philadelphia. The first of its kind in the area, FUEL features a delicious menu of panninis, wraps and salads – all made fresh and all under 500 calories! FUEL features a Juice Bar and Coffee Bar to quench all your thirsts. Owner and Chef Rocco Cima believes great food can be great for you! Eat in. Take Out. Delivery.

Fuel. 1917 E. Passyunk Avenue. 215.468.FUEL. FuelPhilly.com

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PHOTO BY DELHOVLYN

ON AUGUST 13, 2009, GUITAR virtuoso and inventor Les Paul died at the age of 94.

As a music lover and lifetime musician, I paused for a moment to say a silent prayer. Suddenly, it hit me. During the spring of 2005, I interviewed Les for a feature story.

For one reason or another, it was never published.

The word ‘legend’ is used far too often these days.

From time to time, however, we encounter those larger-than-life individuals who have truly earned the accolades.

Les Paul was a unique blend of musician and inventor. He was aptly described as the Benjamin Franklin of the recording industry. He spent an entire lifetime playing guitars, inventing guitars and recording equipment to help him find the elusive sound that every true musical artist searches for. Les found his and generations of both musicians and music lovers from every genre have benefited because of him.

While preparing for this interview, I discovered a major problem. What area of Les’ career would I focus on? This was the man who not only invented the solid body electric guitar but multi-track recording, as well.

Should I talk about his multiple Grammy Awards or being a member of the Rock & Roll and Inventor’s Hall of Fame? Should I focus on his breathtaking guitar technique or spotlight the high points of a recording career that spanned eight decades?

Even today, more than 50 years later, the revolutionary tracks he cut alongside wife and vocalist Mary Ford sound as fresh and vibrant as ever. The recording techniques pioneered by Les on those sessions produced the classics: Lover, How High the Moon, The World is Waiting For the Sunrise, Bye Bye Blues and Vaya Con Dios.

There was no need to worry. We covered just about all of it during a rollicking hour-long conversation. Les loved to talk and he had a wicked sense of humor!

(I left those parts out!) It definitely was the most entertaining interview of my career.

AN INTERVIEW WITH LES PAUL NECESSITY DROVE THIS FOUNDING FATHER TO INVENTION

by BOB WAGNER

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Note: This interview was conducted in August 2005.

PRH) Tell us about your early years growing up and how you got started playing music?

LP) Well, I was born in Waukesha, Wisconsin back in 1915. The same year the Kaiser started World War I. (laughs) We always listened to music around the house with the radio and the Victrola.

My Mother played piano. I remember Mom and Dad were going through their divorce, she would play and sing these blues songs and cry. I was struck by the emotion of the music.

I started off playing the harmonica. A ditch digger gave it to me.

We were having indoor plumbing put in our house, which was high living in those days! (Laughs) Anyway, this fellow would play his harmonica during his lunch breaks. Well, I sat and stared at him so hard while he was playing that he gave me the harmonica. He said, ‘Here kid, you need this more than me.’ (Laughs) I then moved on to banjo and piano and guitar. I got my first guitar from Sears & Roebuck. Cost about $3.95. My fingers were so small they couldn’t reach the big E string, so I pulled it off and only played with five strings. I guess I was about 6 at the time.

PRH) Who were your influences as a young guitarist?

LP) Well, one of the first ones to really influence me was a guy from your area in South Philadelphia, by the name of Eddie Lang. A little later on I discovered Nick Lucas but Eddie Lang was the guy early on.

PRH) I imagine you appeared in Philadelphia many times over the years?

LP) Sure, the Earle Theatre was down there; the old Latin Casino; did the Mike Douglas Show.

PRH) Besides being a great guitarist, you have been responsible for some of the most important recording inventions in music history.

Why do you think you excelled in two such diverse fields?

LP) Curiosity. My Mom had a player piano and a phonograph in our home. When you played the piano roll at different speeds, the pitch or the key stayed the same. However, when you slowed the phonograph down, the pitch or the key got lower. That fascinated me. So, I asked my teacher, Miss Ross, why was that? She said, ‘I can’t answer that.’

So, she took me over to the junior high school to speak to the science teacher. He said, ‘We need to go to the library.’ That was the first

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reference I ever saw about digital sound and audio. So, that got me interested and inspired and everything else that I have accomplished sprang from trying to find the answer to that first question.

PRH) I know you have been asked this a million times but why and how did you come up with the idea for the solid body guitar?

LP) Back when I first started, I was playing at a barbecue stand.

I had built a PA out of my mother’s radio. I sang and played into a telephone that I had fashioned into a microphone. I attached it to a broomstick that I put in a cinder block. (Laughs) I sang and I played through that to the people in the cars that would come in. Some guy in the rumble seat of a car wrote a note that he gave to the carhop who gave it to me and said: ‘Hey, your songs are good but the guitar’s not loud enough.’

I went home and decided to make an electric guitar. But then I ran smack into the problem of feedback. So, I filled the guitar with socks, tablecloths and anything else I could think of. Nothing worked right. Later on, I filled it with plaster of Paris. That was ok but it still wasn’t the answer. I decided it needed to be solid. I had to find the best piece of wood I could find so that it would not only be louder but also sustain better. But it all started from there because I needed my guitar to be louder.

Eventually, after a lot of trial and error, I designed a guitar out of a piece of railroad log. I strung a string across it, down the length of the rail and then put the earpiece of the telephone under the string. And lo and behold, I plugged it into my mother’s radio and out came the sound of the railroad track! I ran into my mother to show her and she said, ‘The day you see a cowboy on a horse with a railroad track...’ (laughs) For 10 years, I kept working at it. Eventually, I took it around to all the guitar manufacturers and they thought it was a joke. They laughed at me and called me the character with the broomstick with the pick-ups on it.

Finally, one day, Gibson called and asked me to bring it to Chicago for a demonstration. They decided to put it out and made four! (Laughs) PRH) What inspired you to come up with what we now know as the “Les Paul” sound on your recordings?

LP) Well, I had played in the Fred Waring Orchestra early in my career. And that’s where I learned about arranging for multiple instruments and voices. I wanted to do that with just the guitar and voices. I wanted to make my guitar sound like an orchestra.

That was one of the main reasons I invented sound-on-sound recording. I could arrange the guitars and voices and I could record when I wanted to. If I got an idea at 3 AM, I could record it then. No need to go down to a studio and get permission to record certain things. The studio was now in my home and I could do exactly what I wanted to do. Play with myself! (Laughs) As far as getting the sound itself, one of the main problems was the more layers of sound you add, the more fidelity of the recording is lost. You got a lot of distortion.

To get around that, I used to do everything backwards! Do the least important parts first and the most important parts last.

(Laughs) That way, the sound quality remained high. Listen to the CD versions that are out now. The songs still sound good. That is the reason why. I was always searching for ways to push the limits and that made me more creative. The problem today is there is so much available that we are losing our creativity.

PHOTO BY DELHOVLYN

PRH) How so?

LP) If you want a certain sound or something nowadays, you run down to the music store and buy it. Back then, you couldn’t. I wanted a solid body electric guitar. There wasn’t any, so I invented one. I wanted a multi-track tape recorder. They weren’t any, so I invented one. I wanted Mary to sound like she was singing on a mountain on the record. I needed something that could make that echo. It didn’t exist, so I invented one. The limitations of the time forced me to be creative.

PRH) Speaking of the Les Paul sound, did you get a chance to listen to the demo of Bye, Bye Blues I sent you?

LP) Yes, that was pretty good. You almost got it. (Laughs) You need to get a Les Paul! (Laughs) That sounds like a Gretsch you’re playing on there. You should move the mic closer to the speaker on the lead guitar. Who played the rhythm guitar?

PRH) Uh oh, (laughs) I did.

LP) Really? Nice job on that! That’s a lost art nowadays. Reminded

me of Jimmy Atkins, he used to be in my band. He was a real good rhythm player. Maybe you’ve heard of his brother, Chet! (Laughs) PRH) How did the idea for the multi-track tape recording machine come to you?

LP) Mary and I were doing our television show from our home. While we were on break, it just came to me…See, because I had invented sound on sound recording that made multi-track recording possible.

I just went from sound on sound acetates to the actual one-inch tape with eight tracks on it and stereo. After the show, I called Ampex, who was a reel-to-reel tape and recorder manufacturer and set up a meeting. A few days later, after about two hours, we were laying out the plans for the first multi-track tape machine. That was in 1953. It took a few more years before I got the eight- track. (Laughs) PRH) As an inventor, what do you think of today’s technology which is so sampler based, especially in the Rap music field?

LP) I think it’s great. Synthesizers, samplers, the whole nine yards, I’ve listened to rap and some of it is pretty good! (Laughs) The best thing is now almost all musicians have had to have some knowledge about electronics, too. Because of that, just about anybody can record in their basement or bedroom. I was looked at as a freak back in the old days when I did it. Now anyone can do it and I like that.

PRH) Speaking of Mary, you used to play guitar for the Andrew Sisters. Do you think you were influenced by their vocal harmonizing when you started working with Mary Ford?

LP) Hey kid, that’s a good question! (Laughs) Never thought about that. I’d have to say not consciously though.

PRH) You started performing weekly again in the mid-1980s. Why? LP) I do it because I enjoy it. This gives me something to look forward to every week. I play good music with great musicians, tell some stories, laugh and get to meet amazing fans, old and young.

I’ll continue to do it as long as the people enjoy what I do. It is no different now than it was 70 years ago.

Editor’s Note: Les performed every Monday night at the Club Iridium in New York City up until one month before he died. On behalf of music lovers and guitarists everywhere, God Bless you Les and thanks for everything!

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PRHMUSIC & ART

FAT CITY REPRISE

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

by BOB WAGNER

P

hiladelphia has a rich and well-documented musical heritage that has played a prominent role in developing popular music through the years.

Casual music lovers tend to focus solely on the eras of American Bandstand and Philly International as the high points of the Philadelphia music scene. On the surface, it’s easy to agree with that assessment. However, there is a simple formula for Philadelphia’s musical influence on the world. It always has and always will come down to the talent that this diverse city has brought forth.

The latest of these talented Philly citizens making a name for themselves in the music business is the group Fat City Reprise. They recently sat down with PRH to discuss their memories, career and dreams.

PRH) How long has the band been together?

FCR) This current line-up has been playing together for almost four years. There were a few incarnations of the band prior to this but we didn’t really hit our stride until our current line-up.

PRH) Who are the current members?

FCR) Frankie Pedano: Lead Vocals, Keys; Nick Anastasi: Guitars; Mike Vivas: Bass, Background Vocals and Jay Miraglia: Drums PRH) When did the band move out to L.A.?

Mike) We moved to Los Angeles last September (2008) after our February 2008 West Coast tour turned out to be successful.

Frankie) We were received really well at every place that we played. After that tour,

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we spent April - August 2008 recording for our upcoming release ‘Pirate Radio’ and then made our move.

PRH) How has the move benefited your career?

Jay) Out here, we are exposed to a world of opportunities that are exclusive to Los Angeles. We’ve played shows to audiences that have included Dave Grohl and Mike Inez. Business is more personal out here.

The industry people are more open to give you a chance and listen to your band.

Nick) Being in the epicenter of the entertainment industry can’t be a bad thing.

There are a million licensing, publishing and tour support opportunities in every venue.

PRH) What is the biggest difference between the L.A. and Philly Music scenes?

Mike: Out here, there are a thousand rock clubs. In just one block, you can find the Roxy, the Rainbow, the Whisky A Go-Go, the Viper Room, Key Club and the Cat Club. The House of Blues is right down the street.

Jay: Also, the huge number of bands and musicians migrating to LA every day creates a really competitive environment. It’s less like the Philly scene where all of the musicians are part of a huge unspoken family that includes all of the Philly music scenes.

PRH) What is the band’s most memorable gig?

Frankie) We opened for the Flaming Lips who are one of my favorite bands. Wayne Coyne is a big inspiration and to open for them was a dream come true.

Jay) We played after a Phantoms game at the Spectrum awhile ago and they brought

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us out on the back of a truck to do the show from center ice. While the crew was setting up, we got to stand on the blue line where the Flyers won their first Stanley Cup and also beat the Russians. It was just awesome.

Mike) I’ll go with the time that we opened for the Roots at their pre-Grammy party at the Key Club in LA. We shared the stage with the Roots, Doug E. Fresh, MC Lyte, Seal, Travis Barker and a bunch of other people.

The Roots tore the stage up and we had all access passes so we were backstage talking to everyone.

PRH) What is the band working on now?

Mike) We’ve been doing a lot of writing.

We just got done mixing and mastering our upcoming album ‘Pirate Radio’ and are getting ready for the tour to support the album.

Nick: We wrote some music for the serialized web comic Black Cherry Bombshells recently. We also recorded reggae versions of some Black Sabbath songs with Chuck Treece for a project of his called Dub Sabbath. We’ve been working with Skate Sauce, JSLV and SK8MAFIA, three awesome skate companies that we have apparel sponsorships with.

PRH) What does the future hold for Fat City?

Frankie) The new album is coming soon.

We will be spending a lot of 2010 touring and then we’ll be back in the studio so we can get back out on the road again in 2011.

Nick) In the words of the Wu-Tang, we’re trying to make a business out of this. We’re not trying to hop in and hop out. Our goal is longevity.

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PRHMUSIC & ART

THIS MAILMAN DELIVERS HIS DEBUT CD

by BOB WAGNER

F

or Johnny Pompo a/k/a Johnny Pescatore, music is not just a sideline, it’s a passion. While growing up in South Philly at 10th & McKean, Pompo ingested a steady diet of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin who inspired him to take up playing the guitar. Over the years, he has quietly continued to develop his craft, infusing his style with many diverse genres of music including funk, country and folk while dreaming of one day taking the time to record his own CD of original material. Inspired by the John Lennon lyric, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans,” Pompo finally stopped dreaming and started writing and recording. He completed this CD as a promise to himself and is now ready to share it with you, the South Philly people who inspired it.

PRH) Most people do not enter the music business at age 45. Why a CD and why now?

JP) (Laughs) Well, I have always been involved in music one way or another, listening to, playing guitar, piano and singing. Through the years, I’ve played in numerous cover bands, the last one being the

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PRHMUSIC & ART group Chaos. So, this was just a natural extension of that. However, I had reached a point in my life where I wanted to express myself and share my own personal experiences and feelings in songs instead of singing someone else’s. So, after I wrote the first few songs, I decided now was the time to finally pursue this dream.

PRH) The music on the CD is quite eclectic. You seem to change styles effortlessly. There are rock songs, pop songs and even a country song. Why is that?

JP) As a music lover, I have been exposed to and influenced by many different artists. Part of it is a result of when and where I grew up. South Philly was/is so diverse ethnically, culturally and musically. I grew up in an era where there was only one music chart and all different styles of music were represented in the Top 10. Whatever Nick Petrella’s Music Shop or the Record Bar had on the chart, I bought, listened to and studied. Quite different from today where commercial radio plays the same 10 songs over and over.

PRH) You wrote or co-wrote all of the tracks on the Johnny Pompo CD. Do you have a favorite?

JP) That’s kind of like asking a parent who is your favorite child!

(Laughs) While I do not have a favorite song on the CD, I will say that I am most proud of the song “Summer of 74.”

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PRH) What inspired you to write “Summer of 74?”

JP) I am a very nostalgic person. In my regular job as a mailman, you will always see me stopping on my route to talk to the older customers. I love reminiscing with them about the old days and remembering the old stores and people that used to be in the neighborhood. Summer of 74 is an extension of that. It’s like my version of The Beatles’ Penny Lane. They sang about the people and places in their neighborhood and I sang about Broad & Snyder and Passyunk Avenue in mine. (Laughs).

PRH) How did working with outside musicians and a producer effect your vision of the project?

JP) I could not have picked a better group of people to work with on this project. I recorded and mastered the CD at Fifth Stone Studios (www.FifthStoneStudios.com) with producer Mariano at the helm. I would like to take a moment and single out guitarist Bobby Rose for his contribution to this CD. It was truly an honor to work with a living legend of the jazz scene. Bobby is the long time sideman to the incomparable jazz guitarist Pat Martino. Another South Philly guy! (Laughs) PRH) What’s next on the agenda career-wise?

JP) Right now, I have been rehearsing the band in preparation for the upcoming CD release party. During the show, we will be performing the CD live in its entirety along with several new tracks.

I am also in pre-production for my next CD. PRH) Where can Philadelphia RowHome readers purchase the Johnny Pompo CD? JP) They can go to Amazon.com, itunes or log onto my website WWW.JOHNNYPOMPO.COM where we will be posting the release party/concert information shortly. I would also like to thank everyone for their response to the CD. It has been so gratifying for me to not only fulfill my dream but to have people enjoy it. It has been a joy. 6

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PRHMUSIC & ART

by BOB WAGNER photo by JOSH BRANDENBURG

THE URANIUM STORY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM hiladelphia may be the 49th largest city in the world but the sheer number of its current and former residents who have made and are currently making major contributions to the entertainment industry is staggering. The latest to emerge from this seemingly endless Philadelphia talent pool is Uranium Film Productions.

Uranium is an independent venture founded by four born-and-raised South Philly friends: Stephen Ligambi, Joan Roman, Jackie Alberici and Christina Kelly who decided to merge their formative and diverse talents to bring a fresh approach to the industry.

Whether it’s feature films, short films or webbased television, the Uranium team has something new and exciting to offer each medium and genre.

Their most recent entre is Rock Hero. This mockumentary-style web series chronicles the lives of four adult gamers who become so obsessed with the video game ‘Rock Band’ that they lose touch with reality. Cleverly written and filmed, the series combines E! True Hollywood Story with the offbeat comedy of The Office and Family Guy. Rock Hero manages to capture the excitement of the video gaming lifestyle while discreetly mocking today’s pop culture.

PRH recently sat down with Uranium to discuss some of their exciting projects.

P

PRH) In reading your bios, you are certainly an eclectic group!

Joan) (laughs) That’s true but it helps us to better manage both the creative and business worlds.

Steve) Exactly, for example, I have a B.A. in Communications and Visual Arts at Widener and Fordham. Joan has a B.A. and majored in Theatre and Acting, Christina

has a Masters Degree in Special Education, Jackie has a degree in Psychology. However, we all share a love and talent for writing, acting, film production and entertainment marketing and promotion.

Jackie) We all bring a different skill set and mindset to the table.

Christina) It enables us to think outside the box and the fact that we are all best friends and enjoy working together is just a dream come true for us.

PRH) What was your first project together?

Steve) It was a short film titled Hit & Miss. It was actually my final project at Fordham Joan) One week before it was due, he started working on it. (Laughs) Basically we started out as the free talent.

Jackie) But during the production we realized we had a good team chemistry going.

PRH) So this partnership has enabled you to create your own projects in-house as opposed to sitting around and waiting for projects to come your way?

Joan) Exactly! Like all new-comers to the business, we knew that our entre was via independent films. But it is a slow process and we are young and impatient! (Laughs) Jackie) The timing was perfect. We were all in a position personally, career-wise and geographically to do this ourselves.

Christina) Then we based our job descriptions on our individual talents and strengths. .

Stephen) Our goal is to create projects that appeal to our generation and make them easily accessible.

PRH) So it has become a quazifamily business?

Stephen) In a way, it’s definitely a by-prod-

uct of who we are and where we come from.

Joan) We are going to make our dreams happen and more importantly we are going to do it together. .

PRH) Tell us about “RockHero.”

Joan) It is a mockumentary style web series of 4 gamers out to take on the world in a popular video game.

Stephen) It has been very well received and is the first part of the much bigger Uranium TV project we have developed. In short, it is our own Internet based network which will feature our works as well as additional projects by others.

PRH) That’s a very ambitious undertaking.

Not only artistically but there are many marketing and technology hurdles.

Stephen) True, but it has enabled us to work with so many talented people. We work with other artists who are like us, passionate to make something special that hasn’t been done before.

Christina) It has been a lot of work but because we live in a viral marketing age we have been able to reach and attract and cultivate a very large and loyal audience.

Jackie) Technolgy-wise, Anthony Scafide of TechSmart Designs really brought our web vision to life.

PRH) What is new on the Horizon?

Joan) We will be filming additional episodes of “RockHero” for next season.

Stephen) Our first full-length film entitled “Closed Table” is scheduled to begin filming in 2010.

Jackie) We will be looking for opportunities to expand the content on Uranium TV. Christina) ..and continue to market our projects to an ever expanding audience. 6 ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHMUSIC & ART

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H

er family realized she could sing when she was only six years old. By the time she was 12, on the recommendation of Kenny Gamble, Rabiyah was on her way to New York City to compete in the prestigious Apollo Theater talent show. She placed second.

A graduate of Masterman and a current freshman at CAPA, this young jazz singer credits Maya Angelou and Dianne Reeves for inspiring her to chase the dream. In the past 35 months, she’s performed on 67 stages.

The seventh of nine children, Rabiyah is quick to point out the support of her entire family, especially her parents and grandfather Walli, who acts as her agent and manager.

“She’s going to be the next Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Donna Reese,” a proud Walli boasts. A modest Rabiyah smiles, obviously uncomfortable with the comparison.

Although a singing career is at the top of her “to-do” list, Rabiyah has her sights set on the University of Pennsylvania and law school.

She plans to become an Entertainment Attorney. Says it will keep her close to the field.

“I have a dream for a singing career –to become a well-known artist,” Rabiyah explains. “But I also want to be known as a good person and respected artist.”

Writing and performing her own music is a stepping-stone to that dream, she says. But so is her education. And though the prospect of one day being signed by a recording label looms, she says her studies keep her grounded.

PRH recently sat down with Rabiyah to talk about her plans for the future.

PRHMUSIC & ART Q When did you first start singing?

When I was in a daycare. I sang in a play we had in school.

Q Name a few of your most memorable performances?

The Apollo Talent show was a thrill for me. I was only 12 years old and I couldn’t believe I was in the Apollo Theater. Others include: John Coltrane Festival (Highlight of her career) Philadelphia Clef Club Cape May Jazz Festival West Oak Lane Jazz Festival RowHome’s “Street Songs” concert NACCP Convention Blue Horizon Penns Landing Jazz Festival Moshulu at Penns Landing

• • • • • • • • •

Q What bands have you played with?

Chew & Crew (Apollo show band) • Ray Philadelphia Clef Club Band • Young Lions Philly • Richard Tucker Universal Soul • Channel 44 Kid Rock Dance Party • (The show airs from the same studio where Dick Clark’s

Bandstand got its start)

Q What would you like to be able to do with your music?

I would like to travel and perform in places like New Orleans, L.A. and Nashville. I am a fan of the Southern States. For me, Jazz started down south. I have a lot of family there and have traveled to North Carolina to perform with Mia Angelo.

Q Have you thought of auditioning for American Idol?

I am very unsure of the American Idol show. I feel it’s more a popularity contest...I would have to say no.

Q Do you take voice lessons?

Yes. I have been taking voice lessons from Owen Fiidla Brown (Philadelphia Clef Club) for 10 years. My present voice teacher is Sherry Wilson Butler.

Q What was the first concert you saw?

My Grandfather took me to a Donna Reese concert.

Q When did you first see the inside of a recording studio?

I was 11 years old and recorded “The Way You Look Tonight.”

I am currently working on an original track that I wrote about the journey of my career to this point. It has a Bop tune with a Jazz and dance flair to it. I am working on this track with Richard Tucker and we plan a February 2010 release.

Q What would you like to share with the readers of PRH? The kids of Philadelphia are doing some positive things. I really appreciate and love Philadelphia. It’s a great city and I love growing up here.

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PRHFILM East Coast

A RECIPE FOR LEMONADE

by SHARON PINKENSON

Gratitude for your support!

F

irst, I would like to thank Governor Ed Rendell and our state legislators for keeping the PA Film Tax Credits alive and funded (albeit reduced) through this difficult and prolonged budget season. I would also like to thank YOU for doing your part; your phone calls, letters, emails, faxes and petitions really saved our tax credit program. Elected officials need to hear from their constituents and it’s really inspiring to see so many people – residents and business owners, alike – come together for a great cause!

So, what was the final film tax credit deal anyway?

While we did receive a sizeable “haircut” in the $75M allotted for last year’s film tax credit program, we at GPFO are busily cranking out gal-

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PRHFILM lons of lemonadeâ&#x20AC;ŚFor fiscal year 2010 (July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010), the film tax credit program is funded at $42M. For fiscal year 2011 (July 1, 2010-June 30, 2011), we are funded at $60M. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also been told that funding for the following year will be restored to $75M! What does this mean for Pennsylvania?

We are still open for film business and applications are currently being accepted for this fiscal year. Our film tax credit program remains a 25 percent transferable tax credit to qualified projects that spend at least 60 percent of their total production budget in the Commonwealth.

Please go to our exciting website www.film.org for detailed information on tax credits. And check out the lineup of films that are shooting in our area, jobs in film, movie tours and fun gifts for film buffs.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sure, when our pro teams win games, our civic pride soars! But, when Philadelphia takes center stage on the silver screen or as the backdrop to FXâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wildly popular Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Always Sunny in Philadelphia every week, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard not to be a proud Philadelphian.â&#x20AC;?

Root for the home team!

Sure, when our pro teams win games, our civic pride soars! But, when Philadelphia takes center stage on the silver screen or as the backdrop to FXâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wildly popular Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Always Sunny in Philadelphia every week, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard not to be a proud Philadelphian. This summer, despite the uncertainty of the tax credits, we hosted a handful of productions including the third Bollywood film in 2 years and an as yet untitled James L. Brooksdirected film starring Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, Paul Rudd and the ever-popular Jack Nicholson. Film production is an entertainment franchise. We take pride in the fact that directors and producers choose our region to call home for months at a time while using our resources to create their masterpieces. Showing your support for our creative industry is just like putting on your Eagles jersey or painting the town red in honor of the Phillies. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not forget that each film shot here translates into hundreds of new jobs for residents and money spent in your local businesses. Having movies shoot in our neighborhoods means film crews are spending their per diems in our local restaurants, dry cleaners and supermarkets - providing a shot in the arm to our local economy and to our morale as well.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Next?

Check out films shot locally like Law Abiding Citizen, Dare and The Lovely Bones, all of which will be in theaters before the end of the year.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also excited because 2010 marks GPFOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25th Anniversary and we intend to celebrate! Since its inception, GPFO has provided services for more than 260 major films and TV shows, helped create thousands of jobs and is responsible for nearly $3 billion in economic impact to our region. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hearing about our plans for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silver Anniversary of the Philadelphia Silver Screen before long, so stay tuned and thanks for your support.

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athy Wickline has been a prominent name in Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment industry for more than 20 years, tallying more than 6,500 credits in feature films, commercials and industrials. Her most recent feature films include â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kimberlyâ&#x20AC;? with Gabrielle Anwar and Molly Ringwald and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Florentineâ&#x20AC;? with Luke Perry, Jim Belushi and Michael Madson. Other film credits include Jonathan Demmeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Long Kiss Goodnightâ&#x20AC;? with Geena Davis and Samuel Jackson.

Kathyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s television credits include Aaron Spellingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sunset Beachâ&#x20AC;? and other NBC soap operas. Corporate industrial clients include UNISYS, Dupont, Rohm and Haas and MAB Paints. She has also cast for many television commercials, both national and regional, including Safeguard Soap, Miller Lite, McDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, KYW-TV and LA Weight Loss.

PRH recently caught up with Kathy to learn more about her role as a leading casting director in our region.

Q: What exactly is the responsibility of a casting director?

A: As a casting director, I work directly for the producer of a film or advertising agency. I do the legwork in presenting the best talent to them for their project. I conduct auditions at my studio or I send headshots to the producer of actors submitted by talent agencies.

Q: So what is the difference between a casting director and agency? Do you represent actors?

A: The difference is that a casting director is hired and paid by a producer whereas an agency represents the model or talent. An agency can submit talent to a casting director for consideration for

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12/7/09 12:45:21 AM

PRHFILM a job. The director of the project usually makes the final selection on which talent is best for the project.

Q: What kind of work is available for an aspiring actor?

A: In most major markets, commercials, corporate training films, independent films and, of course, theater, are prevalent. Feature films offer opportunity for background artists (extra) roles as well as some day player roles.

Q: How can an aspiring actor get started if they do not have experience?

A: The best way to get started is to study acting. Most major markets offer acting classes. Do your homework and check out the legitimate ones. Attend Open Calls that are offered by talent agencies or casting directors. My company also has a development division for aspiring actors at any level whether you are in it just for fun or a career path. In addition, I offer private consultations for those who really need some guidance.

Q: It must be difficult to make a living as an actor. There are so many that try it. Is it possible to have a regular job and pursue acting?

A: Absolutely. People realize that it is a tough industry to ‘make it’ as an actor. However, not everyone is interested in ‘making it big’ as an actor. Most people DO have regular jobs and if they are flexible enough, they can pursue acting. People balance out their work life with a hobby all the time; so acting part time can indeed be a creative outlet for them. If they start booking a decent amount of work, then they may want to consider this as a career option.

Q: Is there anything that an actor should be aware of in selecting the right path?

A: If an actor is interested in theater, many theatrical companies offer acting classes for stage. The theater will ground you in developing characters. Casting directors take theater actors more seriously when casting important speaking roles.

Q: What is the opportunity for children in this industry?

A: Most of the work for children locally is in commercials, independent film and theater. For those kids who want to act, it is important that they get their parents’ support. Many kids’ schedules are loaded with sports activities and being competitive. Do not overlook the fact that many children may have a creative side and need to express this. Acting could be a fun balance in their lives. It is, however, very important that the child wants it. I had a parent a few years ago whose five-year-old child became whiney at the audition. I heard his mom say ‘OK! Forget about the ice-cream cone’.

My heart goes out to kids who are in this situation. It never works out… plus no one wants to work with an overbearing parent.

Q: As a casting director, what do you look for?

A: I appreciate talent that continually work toward strengthening their skill levels either by participation in theatre, acting workshops as well as keeping up on marketing of themselves. Talent should come prepared, have updated headshots that they really look like and that aren’t afraid of taking chances on-camera.

6

Marianne, Anthony, Ava Rose, Dina, Christina Back Row L to R

Paul and Teresa Front Row L to R

The Stolfo Funeral Home Where everyone is treated like Family Paul C. Stolfo, Director 2536 So. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376

Kathy Wickline is located at 1080 N. Delaware Avenue in Philadelphia. She offers opportunity for talent at all levels. Log onto www.wicklinecasting.com for more information.

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PRHFILM West Coast Good Credit Bad Credit No Credit Don't Sweat it

Our Pop-pop Will Never Steer You Wrong!

Logan & Ava

The team of Eastman-Rossi Productions – Lynn Eastman-Rossi & Leo Rossi

REPORTING FROM THE WEST COAST

FILMMAKERS FLOCK TO PHILLY!

by LEO ROSSI

I

had a long lunch with my Chicago buddies at Joe Mantegna’s restaurant, Taste of Chicago. Dennis Farina, (Get Shorty, Law and Order) Larry Manetti, (Magnum P.I.) and Billy Peterson, (C.S.I.) were all there. We decided that Chicago guys and Philly guys have a lot in common. The main thing is we stick together and hope each other does well. It’s not quite like that with New York actors, who seem to be in a competitive war with each other. My philosophy is ‘there is enough out there for everyone.’

Sad to say I have finally retired from the Show Biz softball league. It gave me a great deal of pleasure in the 25 years I played. The beauty of California is you can play year-round because of the weather. I have fond memories of my teammates over the years. A sampling of them: Chris Guest, Rob Reiner, Billy Crystal, (a helluva fielder) Hank Azaria and many more. The best softball player was Jack Scalia, (Casualties of Love – Long Island Lolita, All My Children) who played in the Houston Astro’s organization and was headed for the big leagues before an arm injury derailed his professional baseball career.

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PRHFILM Variety, the Show Biz bible, did a survey on films shot in the United States. In 2004, 69 percent of all films made in the US were shot in the Los Angeles area. By 2008, only 31 percent were filmed there.

Why the sizeable drop? Because states like Pennsylvania are offering tax credits and rebates. We are in difficult financial times and if studios and production companies can get 25-35 percent of their film budget returned to them, they would be crazy not to take advantage of that.

My dear friend Sharon Pinkenson has been a stalwart in getting the PA tax credit bill passed in Harrisburg. Also props go out to Governor Ed Rendell. With regional filmmaking becoming a force, will Hollywood still be known as the film capital of the world?

We decided that Chicago guys and Philly guys have a lot in common. The main thing is we stick together and hope each other does well. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not quite like that with New York actors, who seem to be in a competitive war with each other. My philosophy is; there is enough out there for everyone.

I have been signed as Executive Producer on a movie project that is very close to my heart. Wildcat Pictures, a local film company, has developed an excellent script about the Villanova Basketball teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heroic 1985 season that culminated with the unforgettable upset of Georgetown in the NCAA final. The script is a no-holds barred account of the trials and tribulations of Rollie Massiminoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crew. Team members Dwayne McClain and Chuck Everson have come aboard as co-producers to verify its authenticity. Villanova sports are part of who I am. I received a full four-year football scholarship to attend the great university. In my four years there, 10 football players made it into the NFL. My former roommate, Richie Moore, was the Green Bay Packersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; #1 draft pick.

The world was saddened by the passing of Patrick Swayze. I had the pleasure of meeting Patrick when I replaced him in the play The Brick and The Rose. He had just gotten cast in the mini-series North and South and I had to step into his role on short notice. His wife Lisa Niemi was also in the play. They were two of the most grounded, unaffected, sincere people I have met in my years in Tinseltown.

Until next timeâ&#x20AC;ŚCiao Philly!

Leo Rossi is a founding member of Eastman-Rossi Productions and has appeared in more than 94 films to date. His project 10th AND WOLF, which he produced, received a theatrical release and is now a cable favorite. The all-star cast includes Giovanni Rubisi, James Marsden, Brad Renfro, Piper Perabo, Dennis Hopper, Val Kilmer, Brian Dennehy, Leslie Ann Warren and, of course, Leo Rossi. He also produced WISEGAL starring Alyssa Milano and James Caan, which was the highest rated movie ever for the Lifetime Network. It won the 2008 Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Image Network award for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Outstanding Made for Television Movie.â&#x20AC;?

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PRHBRIDES GUIDE

DADDY’S

LITTLE GIRL IT WAS THE FIRST THING HE SAID WHEN HE SAW the sprawling backyard of his new Gladwyne home a few years back. ‘I can see my daughters getting married here some day.’

When Joseph and Donna Grasso asked Joseph Volpe to coordinate the wedding reception for daughter Melissa, it was ‘all hands out back’ to turn this glamorous landscape into a dramatic dreamscape for the bride and her groom, John Russo.

The Cescaphe staff pitched their tent – 60’ x 120’ – and built a ballroom for 325 guests. Over the next week or so, truckloads of products and props gave way to a fantasy affair

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that Donna describes as “awe-inspiring.”

Carpeting, chandeliers, linens, china, a dance floor, cigar bar, a 4-feet-tall cake and 17-feet-high topiaries are on the ‘most memorable’ list. As is the custom fleet of white Cescaphe trolleys (the only white trolleys in the city) that transported guests from the Center City Warwick.

“The flowers,” Donna gasped. “I will never forget how beautiful they were. Joe took care of everything. Every detail was more spectacular than you can imagine. We are still getting letters from our guests.”

THE MENU Filet Mignon Veal Stuffed with Prosciutto & Mozzarella Chilean Sea Bass encrusted with Black Ink Cappellini THE MUSIC Contagious (A Brandywine Talent Band)

THE FLOWERS Il Fiore Bianco

The bride’s Wine Calla Lily bouquet embraced lockets with grandparents’ photos.

THE VIDEO Doug Rivers INVITATIONS I Do Boutique

photos by SARAH DICICCO

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1947 Mary and Samuel Rabotino s.

Mr .& a r 0 M solt 195 e Lin Mik

1937 Mrs. C

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1936 Ema P

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citti

rs. Lou Mas 1930 Mr. & M

1947 Mary Casasanto

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1950 Mr. & Mrs. Gene Casto

ria

h and lizabet 1921 E o Paolone Serafin

1955 Jeanne (Renzi) &

Frank Petullo

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PICTURE PERFECT photos by MOFFA PHOTOGRAPHY Marisa Valenti and Chris Nasuti were married at St. Joan of Arc Church in Marlton, NJ on July 11th. Cescaphe provided them with the Ballroom Bliss that still has their family and friends buzzing.

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PRHBRIDES GUIDE

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Y

ou are in charge of planning the party.

An endless stream of questions ensue.

House Party? Restaurant? Hall?

House parties are nice. But you have to cook. And clean. And parking is a problem. You need a hall. Fortunately, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an array of premium facilities close to home from which to choose. Like Swan Caterers and The Waterfall Room.

For the past 43 years, Carmen Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Aquilante has been helping people plan parties.

He says he owes his party penchant to words of wisdom handed down from his parents. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pay attention to your business and be fair to your customers. It will come back to you ten-fold.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; From his early days at Holy Ghost Hall to the successful venues he manages today, Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Aquilante says success in the catering business comes down to one word â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;consistency.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; As Owner/CEO/CFO/Events Coordinator and Chief Cook and Bottle Washer, he attributes his success to generations of families who trust him when it comes to coordinating

gohomephilly.com

their â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;once-in-a-lifetimeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; celebrations. And to a long list of corporate clients, youth groups and class reunion presidents who turn to him to book their banquets.

A lifelong resident of South Philadelphia, Carmen is quick to give you the rundown: Raised at 18th & Mifflin; educated at St.Thomas Aquinas and Bishop Neumann High and still residing around 15th & Shunk. He is proud of his hometown. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been blessed over the years. Swan Caterers has been doing business since 1968; The Waterfall Room since 1985,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I treat all customers fairly and I do my best to give them a fabulous party at a decent price.

Is that a formula for success? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I guess Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m doing things right because my business is built on repeat business. I have some customers who have had every possible family function at one of my halls,â&#x20AC;? he points out.

Repeat business and a collection of notable awards through the years are sure signs of success in any business. But in the food busi-

LIFE CAN BE A PARTY

by TONY SANTINI photos by HECTOR VALENTIN

ness – given the discerning taste buds of Philadelphians – Carmen considers his longevity a true sign of success. “You can’t use Ragu Sauce in South Philly. People will know!”

He agrees that the catering business has undergone numerous changes over the years.

“The competition is much tougher. People expect more for their money and a lot of times, want something that is unique and vastly different than what their neighbor had at their party.

The expansion of cable television and the many food shows on both cable and regular TV have added to the expectations of the partygoer.”

To stay competitive, Carmen said he moved away from the standard “mayonnaise menu” of roast beef, stuffed shells and chicken. Instead, he brings an ethnic flair to his buffet tables.

Guests are faced with a culinary dilemma as they walk along the buffet line to stations featuring American, Chinese and possibly Greek, Caribbean or Hispanic fare. And they are overwhelmed by an extensive selection of traditional and old-world Italian cuisine.

“Italian food is universal but doing it right in the old-world style is what separates us from the competition,” he explains. “People are coming to South Philly for a party. They are expecting some great Italian food and we give it to them! Our buffet table includes dishes such as bonsette, escarole and beans, bracciole, broccoli-rabe, fig dish with prosciutto.”

In addition to the old-world dishes, guests are treated to another signature item unique to Swan and The Waterfall Room – the breads.

About 20 years ago, Carmen said a young baker – a friend of his grandfather, approached him. The gentleman wanted to expand his business. He boasted that he could make anything with bread. Carmen asked the baker if he could make loaves of bread in the shapes of the names of the Bride and Groom for their reception that evening.

History in the baking.

For the past two decades, the buffet table at Swan and the Waterfall Room features a bread station where you are likely to see a name, a

greeting or a sentiment expressed in the form of Italian bread.

Theme parties are another staple of D’Aquilante’s.

Over the years, Carmen and his staff have turned weddings, engagements, birthday parties and family celebrations into theme nights with such notables as a Cinderella Wedding, a Mardi Gras Sweet Sixteen and the traditional holiday parties for Christmas, New Year, Halloween and Valentine’s Day. More elaborate theme parties included a Sting Retirement Party complete with live horses; the Monte Carlo 21st Birthday Party with table games, dealers and pit bosses; and the Phillies Celebration Family Reunion Party complete with peanuts, Crackerjack and batting cages!

Carmen says there’s no limit to what they can do in the way of a theme party.

“Bring me an idea and I’ll make it happen”. 6 Swan Caterers.

1500 Shunk Street. The Waterfall Room.

2015 S. Water Street. 215.389.8888.

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PRHBRIDES GUIDE

On the

Corner with Mark Casasanto

“…Cab Driver, drive by Mary’s place, I just wanna chance to see her face…”

Old records

A

fter 43 wonderful years on this blessed earth, it comes down to - of all things old records.

My father passed away when I was just a teenager - a couple years after I graduated high school. Totally unfair – then and now. I think I deserved more than 19 years with the greatest person I ever knew. I mean, I was still getting to know the man who would shape my life in ways he would never come to know.

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Still, I’m luckier than most. I had an opportunity to grow up with a loving, caring father. When my father passed suddenly and without a word, I vowed to hold on dearly to my mother Mary for as long as she would grace this earth.

My mom succumbed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia this past September at the age of 80. During the brief tenure that was her brave battle, I faced the most stressful nine months of my life. I will never forget the moment she heard

gohomephilly.com

the diagnosis. The look of fear. The longing for comfort. Flashbacks of that moment burn like a scar in the flesh of my memory. She was always my rock and without warning, I needed to be hers. Her eyes asked that of me.

On the morning of the day she passed, she apparently fell when returning from the bathroom. She didn’t want to bother anyone else who could’ve helped. As I rushed up the stairs to her bedroom, I asked very tongue-in-cheek,

PRHBRIDES GUIDE

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â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;How did you get on the floor?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; In her always candid and feisty way, she faintly said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start, youâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Her wit was still sharp but sadly, her strength was zapped.

I said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mom, I need your help to get you into bedâ&#x20AC;Śjust kick your feet on the ground as I lift you.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; She did and we fell together into her bed.

Knowing my schedule better than almost anyone else, she knew I had to leave because of an early commitment at Temple University. But this proud woman - who asked for nothing in life - had something to ask of me before I left. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Before you go, lay here with me and rub my backâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; It was the last thing she said to anyone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;ŚCab driver, once more down the street, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little place we used to eatâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

My intense love of music can be traced back to the only childhood home I ever knew. The house with a Hammond Organ for all to play.

And a piano. After dinner, if it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t comedy hour, it certainly was amateur hour. Often, it was a wild mixture of both. The affection for music, however, started even before the instruments arrived. Like nursery rhymes at bedtime, Sunday morning music melted into my bloodstream and pumps through my heart to this very day. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where Al Martino first sang about the â&#x20AC;&#x153;prettiest eyes in all of Mexico.â&#x20AC;? Where The Mills Brothers took off up a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lazy River,â&#x20AC;? Connie Francis cried to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mammaâ&#x20AC;? and Dino crooned about â&#x20AC;&#x153;pasta fagioli and pizza pies.â&#x20AC;?

They say the hardest days of mourning come

after the fact. When the extended family goes home, the food trays stop coming and friends go about their daily routines. But, no one ever mentioned what to expect when preparing your childhood home for its sale. When the opening of every cabinet becomes a window into your book of life. When every photo tells a story.

Every piece of clothing holds a happy memory. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;ŚThen things will be just like they were before, cab driver, wait here by the doorâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

And then it happened. On a day when several friends and family members took time out to pack up our house, the end of the rainbow the pot of gold - suddenly appeared. Tucked inside a seldom-used entertainment center were the old records that brought my family so much love and happiness. Sinatra, Engelbert, Sergio Franchi and more. They all were there.

Looking the same as they did in their prime.

More importantly, the turntable still worked.

Like a Sunday morning from years gone by, with the aroma of gravy permeating the air, the old records played quietly in the background.

On this weekday afternoon, while we were kneedeep in cleaning and moving, the songs played on. Music filled the house again. People sang and smiled, and somewhere, far above it all, two proud angels had some final things to say.

Old records. Who ever would have thought? â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;ŚCab driver, better take me homeâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?

Cab Driver. Words and Music by C. Carson Parks 6

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PRHGREENSP CE Kerri-Lee atop the PECO building green roof in Center City. Totaling more than 45,000 square feet, it is the largest green roof constructed on an existing building in Philadelphia.

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Up on the

roof

by KERRI-LEE HALKETT Anchor, WTXF FOX 29 and PRH Green Editor

photos by Phil Kramer set direction by Scott Hickman catering by Tony Luke’s

A s I was sitting down to write this latest installment for RowHome Magazine, thinking to myself: ‘What should I write about this time?’

I got a text message from my environmentallyfocused other half, Kirt: “Call me if you’re free... I have a minute... I’m eating lunch looking at the river.”

While we chatted, I started to daydream a bit (as we girls do) and pictured him sitting in his office space at Penn Real Estate (PRE) in Bala Cynwyd along the banks of the Schuylkill River. Suddenly, it hit me -- it’s time to write about “green building,” and what better way to start than by telling you about the award-winning historic renovation of this space.

PRE’s principle focus is renewable energy -solar and wind -- so it is only fitting that their headquarters is a rehabilitated building that dates back to the 1880s. Historians know it as the Pencoyd Iron Works building. Several industrial companies occupied the space during the 20th century until the building was abandoned after ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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a fire in 1990. The space remained empty until Penn Real Estate Group took it over in 2000 and began its rehabilitation.

When looking for the right designer to take on the job, firm owner Sean McCloskey did not have to look far. His wife Donna was willing and able. As meticulous in her attention to detail as she is in her dedication to the environment, Donna had something early on that set her apart from the competition: vision. She saw beyond the weeds, trash and graffiti punctuating the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old brick façade, instead envisioning a beautiful, stylish â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? office space with lots of productive years left in its life.

WHAT MAKES IT GREEN An historic renovation is considered one of the highest forms of recycling since it saves a building from being torn down and the waste from being thrown into

our landfills. Walking into this building for the first time, my jaw hit the floor -- it was awe-inspiring. Much of the original building was salvaged and creatively meshed with the newly-planned space. For example, renewable bamboo floors were paired with existing ceiling beams, giving the space a fresh, eco-friendly feel while maintaining its charm. Also, instead of ripping down the original tile walls and ceiling, replica tiles were made to fill in the missing pieces, keeping the look authentic and original.

In addition to its creative design, the building employs the use of passive systems. These energy-saving details include natural ventilation via large, beautiful, operable windows that utilize fresh air from the river to help cool the building during hot, steamy Philadelphia summers.

These same windows also allow natural light to pour through the building, prevent-

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12/7/09 1:11:07 AM

PRHGREENSP CE ing the need for additional lighting during the day.

The company’s commitment to the environment was even evident during construction. When possible, work and materials were sourced locally, with the majority of the labor provided by local carpenters from the Mennonite community in Lancaster County. That helped reduce fossil fuel consumption for delivery of materials and transportation of those workers.

WHY GREEN? Penn Energy may have been on the bandwagon early, but today plenty of other office buildings and even residences in Philadelphia have caught “green fever.”

A new generation of homeowners is learning that the green building movement is, as Martha Stewart would say, a “good thing.” In addition to helping protect the environment and being an attainable, sustainable goal, building or decorating green can actually add value to your property and save you money in the long run.

If you’ve heard that it is too expensive to build green, put that myth aside and get more information. With careful consideration and a little planning, you can make a big difference in your carbon footprint. Building, designing and living green helps minimize the impact we human beings make on this planet daily. In the end, all it really comes down to is asking yourself when making design choices: ‘Is there a better, greener way to do this?’

TAKE THE “LEED” First, let’s go through a couple of important acronyms and ratings that may pop-up as you investigate green building or buying: LEED – This stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and it was established by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) as a rating system for green building construction. If you want to take your living environment down the green path, this is a road sign that you are heading in the right direction.

Green building – This refers to the design, construction and operation of buildings in an eco-friendly way. “Green building” is synonymous with ‘environmentally friendly’ or’ environmentally conscious.’

GREEN THE SPACE YOU ARE IN When thinking about green living spaces, there are many options.

If you are looking for a new home, consider looking at LEED-certified complexes or neighborhoods. One example is the 25-unit No-Lin complex, Duck Flats. Owners of the LEED gold-certified condos will enjoy solar panels, green roofs, energy star appliances and nearly 5,000 square feet of green space. This is just one example of the many green properties out there, so if you are looking for a new home, ask your realtor to show you some LEED-certified properties.

If buying is not an option, look around you and think about

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whether you can bloom where you are planted. Little changes can make a space feel different while having positive environmental impact. If you are looking to redecorate, instead of buying new, recycle the treasures that await at thrift stores or garage sales. While you are there, drop off your old stuff for others to enjoy instead of throwing it out. For more permanent green adjustments to your decor, check out local companies like “Greenable,” which is chock full of innovative eco-friendly products and services.

Following are some other renovation ideas that you can use to “green-up” your space:

resource. Did you know it is the fastest growing plant on Earth? No worries about shortages here.

If recycled milk jugs or bamboo aren’t your style, look for carpets made out of seagrass, sisal, wool carpets and recycled nylon.

FLOORS Milk jug floors -- Personally, I love the idea. Finally, those #2 plastic milk jugs you’ve been putting on the curbs (thank you Mayor Nutter for the new one-bin recycling) have paid off in the form of cool floors that require little maintenance. Once your friends find out what your new floors are made of, they are sure to become a conversation piece.

Bamboo floors -- Another good flooring option is bamboo, which is not produced from a tree but an extremely fast growing grass making it a truly renewable

TEXTILES What about hemp seed throw cushions?

They are healthy for you, your home and the environment. Silk drapes, sheets or covered chairs feature the work of a born environmentalist – the silk worm. This fabric is free of chemicals, a renewable resource and is biodegradable.

ROOFS The concept of a green roof or ‘ecoroof’ is the icing on the cake. And a growing trend!

Instead of tarpaper and shingles, a green roof uses soil and plants. Many cities have an ecoroof movement, replacing traditional

WALLS Did you know you can paper your walls with recycled wallpaper? Sourced from managed forests, about half of it is made from renewable resources using methods that conserve water, energy and minimize waste. If paper is not for you, go green with environmentally friendly paint found in most hardware stores.

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WWW.SPECTRUMREALTY.NET 104

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gohomephilly.com

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PRHGREENSP CE roofing with living systems that are lightweight and beautiful, such as plants like sedums, grass and ferns. The effect is an oasis in the sky smack dab in the middle of an urban setting. The vegetation reduces storm runoff, since the roof garden acts as a sponge, while reducing heating and cooling bills in the process. A tip for first-time “Roof Gardeners” – word on the street is that using seedlings is slightly less frustrating than seeds, so cut yourself some slack.

MY GREEN EXPERIENCE I learn from every green article I write and this one was certainly no exception. I had the chance to put some of what I have learned on this subject to the test while renovating my home in Center City and our country cottage. In both homes, I tried to scavenge for accents in the décor -- a thrift store find here, a tag sale treasure there – and we bought trash cans with organizers designed to make separating recyclables easy.

In the city home, we have two-zone heating and cooling and purposely kept the square footage on the small side to keep energy costs down. We installed fans and skylights in our master bedroom to maximize air flow and cut down on using air conditioning during the summer.

For the country cottage, we also kept it small and opted to avoid things like microwaves and TVs, and use a wood stove for heat and some cooking, like boiling water. I also painted the walls using environmentally-friendly paint. Truthfully, it did cost a little more but it was worth it knowing that it was better for the environment.

Hey, I have a lot to learn, but I am giving it my best shot, just like everybody else. My big project next spring? I am going to take my green thumb to new heights -- yep, I am going to try a green roof of my own. Stay tuned for the review…

6

Tour the PECO green roof!

Want to learn more about “green roof” technology? Join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society for a tour of the PECO building green roof in Center City. Totaling more than 45,000 square feet, it is the largest green roof constructed on an existing building in Philadelphia.

Tours are $5 for PHS members and $10 for non-members. Participants must be 18 years of age and there is a limit of 25 people per tour. Tours meet in the lobby at the PECO building on 23rd & Market and begin with a brief orientation.

If you are interested, email us at PECOroof@pennhort.org or call 215-988-8869.For more information about PHS and its programs, go to www. phsonline.org.

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ur country has an energy crisis and 40 percent of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy use is in the home,â&#x20AC;? says Harris Gross, a home inspector and engineer.

The basic difference between a rowhome and a single, detached home is the exposure to the weather on two sides versus four sidesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; a significant advantage for heating and cooling a rowhome, Gross says. And since rowhomes have fewer windows than a detached home, less energy is lost via the windows.

What can you do to save energy?

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Seal the gaps around any holes in the ceiling.

When you take an outlet cover plate off, seal it with caulk and tape. Check for gaps around smoke detectors and bathroom exhaust fans.

Gross suggests insulating both the ductwork and the HVAC unit itself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will greatly improve the operating efficiency of your system. Fiberglass insulation is great on the ducts but only use aluminum backed (no paper backed) insulation around the furnace without covering any vent holes.

Once your home is energy efficient, keeping it that way is easy, Gross says. All it takes is a review of the steps you have already taken to ensure everything is working properly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to blow out a match to see which way the smoke travels - to pick up the direction of air flow - or to run your hand along a wall to check for cold spots.â&#x20AC;?

Review Make sure your heating system is energy efficient. Systems with 95 percent efficiency are available on the market and can save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year.

Add insulation. One way to tell is to feel the interior wall during winter. If the wall feels cold to the touch, it is not insulated. To add insulation to the walls, consider these two options based on your situation: If you have plans to renovate and remove the â&#x20AC;&#x153;drywallâ&#x20AC;?, then polystyrene or similar hard foam will yield the best results with an R value around 4-5.

If there are no plans to renovate, consider blowing insulation in at the top of each â&#x20AC;&#x153;stud bayâ&#x20AC;?. This will provide an R value of approximately 2. Still much better than nothing.

â?§ â?§

Replace your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original windows with double pane windows. In the meantime, adding storm windows will make a significant improvement and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bust the budget.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check your basement windows for drafts.

A high efficiency furnace will also save money in the long run. Replacing a furnace thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than 20 years old before an emergency arises will avoid the premium costs of the service call.

Make sure your attic is properly insulated.

6 Improve ventilation with a roof fan.

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 1:12:18 AM

PRHGREENSP CE

USE THE SUN TO SAVE MONEY! by

DAVID SPITZBERG

A Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System converts the energy of the sun into electricity for daily use. Properly installed equipment, including solar panels and invertors, will reduce electric bills.

There are lots of ways that Government can help pay for a PV System. There’s a Federal Tax Credit or, alternatively for businesses, a Federal Grant that’s available. Depending upon your state’s law, perks include rebates, tax credits, sales tax exemptions and even certificates that can be sold.

You’ll need a qualified installer and experienced tax professional, not only to navigate through the stream of benefits, but also to avoid surprising bumps in the road.

6 David M. Spitzberg has been seen and heard on various Philadelphia media outlets where he has been called upon to provide tax expertise. Spitzberg has been quoted or referenced in numerous national publications and online journals. He has been listed among “The 100 Most Influential CPAs,” “Top 40 Advisors to Know During a Recession,” The 10 “Most Influential CPAs” in the area of Tax and has been Nominated among the “Top 50 IRS Representation Practioners” by CPA Magazine. He may be reached at David.Spitzberg@CPAforBusiness.com or David.Spitzberg@CPAforSolar.com.

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PRHFASHION Jovani Collections Available at Felice Elan Inc. 2529 So. Broad St Phila., PA 19148

SEXY IN THE CITY

by FELICE ELAN written by ALICIA DELEO fashions by JOVANI COLLECTIONS

E

very city has its fashion niche and Philadelphia is no different. Some of the best places to find up-to-the-minute trends and unique fashion-forward pieces may be hidden behind tiny storefronts, on top floors of city skyscrapers or mixed in with a few row homes. And that’s where the history behind Felice Elan Inc. dress shop lies. Owner and buyer for Felice Elan, Phyllis Palermo knows a thing or two about fashion. Growing up with a mother who, for 50 years, owned La Phil Mar— one the most prestigious dress shops in the city— and with years of modeling experience, Phyllis has been surrounded by fashion her entire life. Owning her own shop for more than 15 years, Phyllis has become one of the region’s high-end style experts, especially when it comes to dressing women for life’s

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most memorable occasions.

Take a look at the hottest trends for formal and prom seasons and a sneak peek at spring and summer must-haves.

Flashy Formal Fashions What are the best dressers wearing this season? Fun and exciting frocks!

Dress rules have changed and black has taken a step back when it comes to formal affairs. ● Cocktail dresses take center stage in shorter lengths and captivating colors if you’re looking for another option for that Black Tie gala. Skin tones play a major factor in color choice. Be open-minded to shades that complement your complexion. ● Dazzle, sparkle and shine! Glitter,

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 1:17:33 AM

PRHFASHION beading and crystals make an impact this season. But remember, if you want to go for the glitz, wear an understated dress with statement accessory pieces.

Long pearl necklaces, chandelier earrings, crystal bangles and jeweled stilettos accentuate the positive. ● Out with the old and in with the new.

Skin is in! Strapless styles with low, low backs, off-the-shoulder necklines and short, flared taffeta trends are all the rage.

Pick the fad that flatters your assets.

PROMising Fashions With so many options this prom season, you can work with a style that flatters your body and stands out for all the right reasons. ● Prom trends have changed. Whether you choose a short cocktail dress or a luxurious gown, take your time. Be selective. You will recognize your ‘perfect’ dress when you see it. ● It’s all in the S’s. One-shoulder, strapless, bare and low-backs, cutouts. All these styles are showing up in designer collections. It’s okay to show a little skin, but be mindful of what is most flattering for you. ● Colors that pop! Yellow, turquoise and red are this year’s hottest shades. But who says you have to stick with solids?

Prints were also popular on the runway.

Try a flattering floral for a soft, feminine look.

Spring & Summer Snapshot Get a head start on your warm-weather wardrobe. ● Don’t be blue. Wear it! Hues of blues including periwinkle, cobalt, dove gray and eggplant will help you spring into sunnier seasons and right through fall.

Short, cotton printed micro-mini dresses with peep-toe shoes make a great outfit for hanging out at that outdoor café or your favorite beach bar. ● Hang onto your scarves! These winter staples will carry over to next season.

Scarves easily turn your everyday outfits into fashion-forward and fabulous!

In the next issue of PRH, all eyes are on summer trends from Felice Elan, Philadelphia’s fashion expert!

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Four Generations of Our Family Serving Your Family ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHFASHION

JADE’S PAGE ‘SCENT’SIBILITY

by JADE ROTA

Fragrance is at the top of everyone’s Wish List so check out some of this season’s most popular scents:

❱❱ Jade’s Faves: ❱❱ Ed Hardy’s Love & Luck

110

❱❱ Best Sellers (For Him & Her):

❱❱ Viva La Juicy by Juicy Couture

❱❱ True Religion – Popular with today’s jean generation

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gohomephilly.com

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PRHFASHION ❱❱ Prada ❱❱ Dolce & Gabanna ❱❱ Versace ❱❱ Cartier (For Her) ❱❱ Michael Kors (recently named ‘Top American Designer’)

We specialize in you.

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The orthopaedic specialists at the Rothman Institute can treat problems involving virtually every bone and joint in your body.

What do you want to do?

Call 1-888-309-5566 and let us help you. Today.

TrustRothman.com ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHFASHION

ASK THE JEWELER

by PIETRO PACE Here are answers to some of this year’s most frequently asked questions about your jewelry.

Q I lost a diamond or two from my new engagement ring. Is there something I can do to avoid this?

A

The most popular styles for engagement rings today are called micropavè settings. I am sure you have seen them. Usually, there is a large center diamond surrounded by a single row or multiple rows of small diamonds and diamonds down the shank- usually in white

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gold or platinum. This style greatly enhances the brilliance and size appearance of the center stone, especially if the center diamond is already good quality.

However when 30 or 40 (sometimes as many as 60) tiny diamonds are set right into the exposed part of the ring in mini (micro) prongs, even normal wear will cause a diamond to get dislodged. If you have this type of setting and you have a problem, don’t worry. Your Jeweler should be able to replace this easily and under warranty for the first year. Even after that, repairs should cost minimal.

If you are selecting a ring, discuss the design with your Jeweler. Some ring designers are

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12/7/09 1:18:35 AM

PRHFASHION

WE TRIED OTHER SCHOOLS BUT FOUND A HOME AT

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eliminating some diamonds in more vulnerable areas and replacing them with hand engraving. This continues the diamond pattern but adds some durability to the ring.

Buy your Engagement ring from a Jeweler that is known for quality repair work and has a reputation for standing behind their merchandise. And enjoy your ring!

Q My white gold ring seems to have a tint of yellow on the bottom. Can this be fixed?

A Since white gold is a mixture of yellow gold and other alloys, normal wear can expose the yellow content. That is because the finish, which is a whiter metal called Rhodium, has worn off. Your ring can be easily refinished at a minimal cost (about $20 to $30) and your ring will look like new.

Q Can I have my yellow gold jewelry plated with Rhodium?

A

Yes! And it will look as if it was always white gold. This process is also easy and inexpensive. And it is a great way to get use out of that sentimental piece that looks a little outdated.

Q Are you still buying gold?

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ROWHOME MAGAZINE

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PRHWRITERS BLOCK

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I

t is never too late. Never too late for innate potential to blossom.

Witness the inimitable Gibby Palmaccio and her adoring husband Nick Palmaccio, who are celebrating their golden years in a most extraordinary fashion – she by becoming a novelist and he starting a singing career.

But my story focuses on Gibby.

On the day that I am scheduled to meet with the author, Nick accompanies her.

The two cut elegant figures as they make their entrance at Il Giardino Restaurant and before long, patrons are abuzz with curiosity about Gibby’s novel. Many of them are vying for an introduction.

For my benefit, Nick brings along two samples of Gibby’s artwork to convey yet another recently discovered talent – pieces which the owners of the restaurant would have proudly displayed on their walls.

When I am able to steal her away from her attentive fans, we settle down at a corner table away from other distractions.

With Gibby’s effervescence, it is not long before I settle back to listen and become acquainted with the rich tapestry of her life and her family – both tragedies and successes.

But I want to know about her creative process and the impetus for writing a novel.

Despite being a Floridian snowbird, Gibby’s cultural roots are firmly ensconced in South Philadelphia. She is a product of the vernacular society that honed her narrative.

In fact, it was because of the separation from her family and friends that she took to writing.

La Casa Nostra, despite the better-known antonym, is Italian for “Our house”, and a true labor of love for this author. A decade in the making, the novel was woven from a great deal of encouragement from her family.

Like many other works of fiction, it is molded with real life events.

I had not read the book when I met the author but she assured me that it was a page-turner.

True to her word, that is the case. The unexpected revelation for me is the voice and tone through which the story is told. Anyone who grew up in a row home will recognize the storytelling. The hyperbole that emphasizes an event or a situation and the everyday language steeped in the American-Italian culture: passion, emotions, guilt.

But this is not a review of the book. I will leave that to others.

Rather it is the celebration of the achievement by a dilettante and an inspiration for the rest of us who believe that our best days are behind us.

Hope to see the movie soon, Gibby.

6

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 1:19:55 AM

PHOTO BY JOHN MCMULLEN

PRHHEALTH

James J. Purtill, M.D.£

Real People Real Stories

The Rothman Institute Four hips in two years

by Dorette Rota Jackson

O

ver the course of their 74 years of marriage, they’ve shared two World Wars, 17 Presidents, a walk on the moon and four broken hips. Two apiece to keep the scales balanced.

Anthony and Caroline Angerome say they’ve witnessed many wondrous ‘firsts’ in their lifetimes. Television. Pacemakers. Permanent Press fabric.

Woodrow Wilson was President when they were born. Seventeen leaders of the Free World have since taken office – including Franklin Delano Roosevelt – their hands-down favorite (and Ronald Reagan who runs a close second Anthony laughs).

They thought they’d seen it all until Dr. James Purtill, 45, accomplished what they considered to be the impossible – successful hip replacements in their 90+-year-old bodies.

“When I went for my first checkup after the surgery, Dr. Purtill was smiling. ‘Walk to me, Anthony,’ he said. ‘You’ve made a remarkable recovery in such a short time.’

Unfortunately, that was not the last time Dr. Purtill would see Anthony. Less than six months after his hip replacement, his wife broke her hip. Then he broke the other hip. And she broke one more. Four hips in two years.

“I couldn’t believe what was happening. I saw

her on the floor in the kitchen and I knew she was in pain. I prayed she wouldn’t need surgery,” Anthony says as he fixes his wife a cup of tea.

“But she’s strong. We both are. I told her, ‘Carrie. Just do what the doctor says and you’ll be alright.’ They can fix hips nowadays.

Even at our age.”

According to Dr. James Purtill, an orthopedic surgeon with Rothman Institute, more than 250,000 hip replacements are performed nationally every year – the majority the result of acute fractures. He himself has performed about 700 of those surgeries this past year – most of them for patients in their 70s and 80s.

One-third of patients who break hips require replacement, he says.

“We try to fix broken hips as soon as possible,” Dr. Purtill explains. “We want to get our patients into the operating room within 24-48 hours.”

Purtill says that hip fractures are very common among the elderly and agrees that the vast majority will heal and continue to enjoy the same quality of life they did before surgery.

“Age doesn’t dictate surgery. People who

are relativel relatively healthy are able to get back to their lives,” he adds. Family members are a key component to this healing process, Purtill explains. “It’s good to get family members involved and educated about the process.”

Skilled nursing facilities, physical therapists and home health aides help patients make the transition from the hospital to outpatient facilities and eventually, home.

“Family members are part of the recovery process. Patients will require extra help preparing meals, doing the laundry and shopping,” Purtill explains. “It’s important that everyone is aware of the recovery process and what to expect post-surgery.”

Based on the injury, patients are about 80 percent healed after six weeks. It will take at least six months for them to feel like themselves again.

“We’re getting along just fine,” Anthony beams.

“We both use our walkers as a precaution but my goal is to climb the stairs without any help. It will be nice to sleep in my own bed again.”

Many elderly patients have balance issues but are reluctant to use canes or walkers because of social stigmas, Dr. Purtill confirms.

“Ignore the stigmas,” he advises. “Safety is our main concern. These devices provide patients with a greater level of comfort.”

“And I do my exercises every day.” He demonstrates leg lifts from his living room recliner.

“Show them how great you’re doing,” he encourages his wife. She’s sitting in a matching recliner right next to him.

Caroline reluctantly obliges.

“I can’t wait till he can climb the stairs, either,” she interrupts, rolling her eyes. “He watches the Mass twice a day. I hear the choir singing in my sleep and wonder if I’m dead.”

Modern day miracles. Hip replacement surgery for 94-year-old patients. And 74 years of marriage.

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PRHHEALTH

Perelman

is Center of attention for

HUP

by Brian Hickey photos by Phil Kramer

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PRHHEALTH

I

n the underbelly of an airy, sunlight-embracing, ahead-of-itstime addition to Philadelphia’s medical-community skyline, the Ruth and Raymond Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine hosts a scene right out of science-fiction movies past.

Or, more accurately, the future.

It’s called the Roberts Proton Therapy Center and it was still in its formative stages in September. A sign on the “gantry” door, near the “Beam On/Off” display, noted that access was restricted. With access granted, however, one could easily mistake the sterile white circular frame encapsulating what will be the table – upon which patients will lie for medical experts to hopefully perform radiation marvels – resembles a starship’s operating room or escape pod.

In explaining what will eventually happen here, neither Penn Medicine’s Chief Operating Officer Johanna Epstein nor Dr. Keith Cengel, MD PhD could contain their anticipation about how a proton machine that temporarily forced the closure of a Delaware River bridge will improve X-ray technology.

X-rays, Cengel explained, just go through a patient; protons can stop exactly where doctors want to examine.

“It’s a precision you just don’t have, to zero in on bad cells and offer more normal-tissue sparing in precise treatment,” he said of a proton center that will be just one of six in the nation and the largest affiliated with academia. “It gives us the capacity to explore more. That’s very cool. I like to think of this as the first second-generation modern unit.”

Indeed, it is cool.

In formulating the Proton Center specifics, a team researched the benefits and drawbacks of similar centers and formulated their wish list. What they came up with will offer hope to the sick at a time in American history when cancer and cardiovascular disease are on a perpetual rise. The subterranean marvel will not only help America’s returning injured servicemen via a relationship with Walter Reed Medical Center, but it’s just one piece of a massive undertaking.

Across five bright, open floors (not to mention an adjacent building under construction), Penn brought an outpatient Mecca to the 34th Street site of the old Civic Center where the Beatles played on their inaugural American tour and Wilt Chamberlain won an NBA title.

When I called for a tour, Epstein couldn’t have been more gracious to share Penn’s 500,000 square-foot, $325 million pride-and-joy that represents the largest capital project in university Health System history.

The money came from the school’s budget; fundraising; $20 million from local, state

and federal governments; and weighty alumni donations including $25 million from the namesake Perelmans and $15 million from Comcast’s Roberts family.

Sure, a Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania spokesperson told me before I visited that many think the place is bland enough to evoke Ikea comparisons – I soon saw her point in the futuristic mall feel upon entering – but the convergence of crossspecialty care in rarely-seen-before proximity more than made up for the lack of flair. That, and it’s subconsciously refreshing to be inside a facility designed to invite maximum daylight inside via an abundance of windows.

When planning started – President/CEO Ralph Mullen was a driving force – the center was supposed to be cancer-centric.

Epstein notes that changed when “it became increasingly evident that in order to be totally patient-centric and multi-disciplinary in our care model, other sub-specialties would have to be in the Center. With that decision came the Heart and Vascular Center and the Lung Center. More floors were added to the blueprints and in no time at all, we were able to decant practices in Penn Tower and elsewhere in HUP.” Next fall, the neighboring Fisher Translational Research building will add outpatient Ophthalmology, General and Metabolic Surgery and Urology to the Perelman mix.

“The upper floors of the tower,” adds Epstein, “will be used for Translational Research where scientists will research treatments that can be tested on patients in clinical trials at the Perelman Center. This ‘Bench to Bed’ concept is really the driving force behind the project.” The doctors’ proximity to one another will enable them to look at patients “on the fly, without having to wait three months (for an appointment).”

The driving principle is delivering of “realtime medicine” that enables doctors, nurses and technicians to adapt quickly to patients’ changing conditions. (Even if, when several people were asked for the drawback, it is a ranging web of a facility inside of which one can easily get lost. They’re offering iPod tours to help acclimate workers and enable patients’ relatives to pass their waiting time.) With the Penn Lung Center, Abramson Cancer Center and Heart and Vascular Center already under one roof, that filters down to a paperless system and waiting-room computer screens

offering details of where a patient is at every step of the surgical process. Epstein said the “patient-focused care” center was planned with future advances in mind.

By taking specialties out of HUP and placing them into the new building, Penn says the emergency and overnight-stay care will also see a boost.

There are still some finishing touches to tend to, including the information kiosks that still read, “touch screens to go here.” As for improving patient outcomes, care and satisfaction in a center philosophically committed to cutting down the run-around time between specialists, “So far, so good.”

“Having seen this from when it was just a hole in a ground to a facility that’s starting to take on its very own personality, it’s an amazing thing,” Epstein says. “As much as people like to say we’ve finished (the project), I like to think that it’s just a beginning.”

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By the Numbers ● – 1.6 million: feet of copper wire in the Perelman Center ● – 385,000: The number of patient visits expected during the first year of operation. ● – 350,000: number of annual savings, in dollars, Perelman is projecting that energy efficient standards will save ● – 5,882: number of 170-pound people that the lead blocks for Radiation Therapy weigh ● – 3,000: projected patients-peryear for the Proton Center ● – 1940: the year Raymond G. Perelman graduated from Penn’s Wharton School of Business ● – 1874: the year HUP became America’s first university-owned teaching hospital ● – 1,646: number of football fields the center’s piping would cover ● – 600: square feet in the center’s operating rooms ● – 110: square feet in Perelman’s exam rooms, which are 60 percent larger than the norm ● – 84: number of private chemotherapy infusion rooms ● – 21: charging stations for electric cars in the garage. ● – 16: hours a weekday the Proton Center expects to treat patients ● – 1: year, to the day, that the Perelman had been open on the day Epstein offered RowHome Magazine a tour

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PRHHEALTH

Beauty at the Right Price

by Dr. Richard Dittrich t’s all the rage. Beauty at a price. From nips & tucks to botox.

Since health and beauty go hand-in-hand, take the time to select the services that will make you feel your best – mind & body. Affordable services that you don’t have to put on hold. Here are just a few beauty solutions available from the Professional Aesthetics and Wellness Center.

I

Latisse™ can help you grow your eyelashes—making them longer and fuller. It is the first and only FDA approved treatment for women who want lusher lashes.

Just apply this once a day treatment every evening to the base of the upper eyelashes and notice the results in just four weeks. Full benefits of the treatment occur after 16 weeks.

Microdermabrasion is a skin resurfacing treatment that works by gently exfoliating the top layer of skin with the help of micro aluminum oxide crystals.

The result? A new, fresh layer of healthy skin. This non-invasive, non-surgical cosmetic procedure can revitalize dull skin, reduce enlarged pores, erase fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars. It is also successful in treating mild pigment irregularities, stretch marks and age spots. The procedure takes 30 minutes or less and can be done on the face, neck, chest, back, feet and hands.

IPL Photo-Rejuvenation delivers pulses of intense light through very specific filters to the skin. The targeted tissue absorbs the light’s energy that reduces skin pigmentation, enlarged pores and also minimizes redness. Collagen produc-

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tion is stimulated and softens the appearance of aging skin. In addition to treating facial wrinkles, sun damage, age spots and brown pigmentation, IPL reduces the redness and flushing caused by rosacea by 80 to 90 percent. Areas that can be treated include the face, body and hands.

Laser Hair Removal uses a low-energy laser to gently remove unwanted hair, putting an end to routine shaving and waxing.

This advanced technology transcends the older, painful hair removal treatments to deliver long-lasting results. Because the laser treats more than one hair at a time, it is possible to treat larger areas like the back, shoulders, arms, legs and face. Laser treatments leave your skin looking and feeling smoother and silkier. Best of all, Laser Hair Removal treatments are a safe, fast, gentle and effective alternative method for hair removal for both men and women.

Our Center for Medical Weight Loss is a medically supervised program that offers nutritional products and strategies available only to physicians. We will review your overall health, medications and the weight-loss programs you have tried in the past and create a personalized weight loss program just for you. Our goal is to help you lose weight quickly, safely, and most importantly, keep it off permanently. There are three basic weight loss options - each includes a body composition analysis that measures your body’s water, muscle and fat compositions and helps to provide a

formula to predict the maximum amount of weight you will be able to lose safely over a specific period of time. Learn to take control of your eating and exercise habits as well as manage food temptations. As you begin to lose weight, not only will you feel better about your appearance, you will be on the road to better health.

Call the Professional Wellness and Aesthetics Center or visit its website to find out more about these and the many other services.

215-465-1183 215-465-3000 856-435-9090 www.wellnesscenterpa.com www.wellnesscenternj.com

Dr. Richard Dittrich has been practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology in the South Philadelphia area for 25 years. He has been an active member of the staff at Methodist Hospital and served as the Chief of Gynecology.

Dr. Dittrich is also a staff physician at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and a member of their faculty. He is a member of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Pennsylvania Colposcopy Society, and the Philadelphia Medical Society.

He practices gynecology at 1313 Wolf Street and also has an office in Voorhees, NJ. Dr Dittrich is now offering a wide variety of Wellness Programs to enhance your outer beauty and renew your body. Schedule a consult for laser hair removal, IPL for the face and veins and/or Botox, Radiesse or Juvederm injections. We currently have available a variety of Omega-3 nutraceuticals formulated for every life stage. In the very near future, we will be adding an extensive weight loss program to our services. Please visit our website at www.wellnesscenterpa.com to learn even more.

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12/7/09 1:21:37 AM

PRHSPORTS

YOU CAN FIND ME IN COOPERSTOWN

By David W. Cava

T

he game of baseball has a long history of superstitious behavior. Obsessive-compulsive pregame rituals along with quirky habitual routines help players and managers alike to feel more comfortable and focused on the task at hand.

Writers, too, have their own habitual rituals prior to putting their thoughts into words.

Some are more comfortable using a pen and paper while others feed off the clickity-clack of an old typewriter. I for one like to have a cup of coffee next to me while I write. If I don’t, the words just don’t seem to come.

Ryan Howard spits in his gloves and rubs them together. He steps in the box, taps the plate, hunkers down and extends his right arm towards the evening sky. Jayson Werth and Chase Utley both lean backwards stretching their spine prior to getting set to do battle.

My son enjoys watching baseball almost as much as he likes playing it. I love to watch him at the plate as he goes through his own version of the Jayson Werth back stretch and the Ryan Howard bat extension. In my youth, I too emulated my favorite Phillies. Whether it was The Bull, Shmitty or Gary Maddox, I stood in the batter’s box with the dream of one day playing with the big boys.

Thanks to the Philadelphia Inquirer and RowHome Magazine, I managed to land myself in the Baseball Hall of Fame without ever throwing a pitch or swinging a bat.

My journey into the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum began with a story that ran in the April 17th Philadelphia Inquirer and then later in the summer edition of RowHome Magazine.

Like so many Philadelphians, I felt as if I had lost a friend when I learned of the passing of Harry Kalas. With a fresh cup of coffee by my side, I was compelled to write. For weeks after the

story ran in the Inquirer, I received e-mails from all over the country thanking me for describing exactly how they, too, felt about Harry. What an honor to be able to contribute to the memory of a true Philadelphia icon.

On the return trip home from a family vacation in Niagara Falls, we stopped at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. The variety of exhibits combined with the extraordinary volume of memorabilia was a real thrill for the entire family.

As we made our way through the Museum, my daughter alerted me to an unmistakable voice calling a play in an exhibit that honored broadcasters and sportswriters. On that day not Mays, Aaron, or the Babe himself were as relevant as hearing Harry Kalas. There in the Hall of Fame’s Library was Harry’s picture along with the other recipients of the Ford C. Frick Award. Since 1978 the award has been given each year to a deserving broadcaster for making a major contribution to baseball. A well-deserved honor for Harry the “K”.

When I returned home, I felt compelled to thank the Hall of Fame for the experience. I wrote a quick letter and included copies of both the Inquirer and RowHome Magazine articles.

Within a week of sending the letter, I received a handwritten postcard from the Hall’s Director of Research, Tim Wiles. He thanked me for the material and advised me that both articles would be placed in Harry Kalas’ library file.

So, if you take a trip to Cooperstown to see the tens of thousands of artifacts and photos which depict the history of baseball, its great players and most memorable moments, don’t forget to ask for Harry Kalas’ library file. And if you’re compelled to try your hand at writing, don’t forget the coffee. It may just help you hit one out of the park.

6

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PRHTIPS FROM THE PROS LEGAL

& RDER LAWO Bad financial advice?

Who’s libel?

by FRANK C. DEPASQUALE JR., ESQUIRE

Q: Over the past few years, every investment recommended by my financial advisor resulted in a loss of my money. Is there anything I can do to recover my investment losses due to my financial advisor’s poor advice?

Philip L., Ardmore A: Yes. Your financial advisor has a legal duty to provide sound investment advice and to act in your best interest. If he or she failed in that regard, you can bring a claim against him or her to attempt to recover your losses.

Q: Last week, I visited my boyfriend on his military base in New York. During the visit, I slipped and fell on a wet floor in the base commissary. I broke my ankle.

Can I sue the federal government for my injuries?

Kyrsten, Philadelphia A: Yes. Although the Federal Tort Claims Act does protect and shield the Federal Government from most suits, it does allow claims against it when its employees are negligent within the scope of their employment.

Little Miss Sunshine Kids Savannah Sheridan, Nina Schrock and Sofia Deihl are braiding bracelets to help raise money for Children’s Hospital. For a small donation, you get to choose your favorite colors while the girls get busy turning the strands into fashionable accessories. Their first check for CHOP was more than $300!

SunShine Kids

Q: I heard that struggling consumers with exorbitant credit card debt can no longer file a Bankruptcy to protect them.

Is this true?

Samuel R., Germantown A: Yes, to some extent. The new Bankruptcy Code came into effect in October 2005 and makes it more difficult to avoid personal debt.

However, bankruptcy is still a very effective option in helping consumers relieve and manage their financial obligations, so long as the consumer receives the correct legal advice.

Frank C. Depasquale Jr., Esquire was named one of Philadelphia Magazine’s Super Lawyers for 2009. He heads DePasquale Law Offices, 2332-34 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145. P: 215.755.4410.

Email: Frank@depasquale-law.com www.depasquale-law.com

£

LEGAL QUESTIONS

Legal questions for Frank DePasquale? Email him at info@gohomephilly.com or mail to PRH Law & Order, PO Box 54786, Phila., PA 19148.

Please include your name, address & phone number for verification purposes. PRH will not publish your last name.

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PRHCOMMUNITY SERVICE

215.755.1480 1928 E. Passyunk Ave Phila, PA 19148 Acinnae@aol.com Womens Volunteers at Youth Services, Inc. do some yard work as part of United Way’s Days of Caring.

United Way volunteers fix up the Ricketts Community Center in Pottstown,PA.

United Way Can Help

Looking for the perfect match?

by EMILY E. ROSENBERG

V

olunteering comes in many different forms for many different causes.

Whether you are 12 or 20, 17 or 70, working together, side by side with coworkers or family, helps build stronger communities.

As part of the United Way LIVE UNITED movement, United Ways throughout the region are asking people to Give, Advocate and Volunteer. Although donations to any nonprofit are needed and necessary, the value of volunteering cannot be overstated.

Volunteering for a cause or on behalf of an organization provides individuals with opportunities to expand both their business and social networks. It’s the perfect way to meet new and interesting people with likeminded interests. You will also gain experience in the nonprofit arena and maybe even find that perfect soul mate.

Family volunteering provides parents and children with a chance to spend some quality time away from the rigid schedules of work and

soccer practice. Instilling the importance of sharing and giving back at an early age will lead to a new and active generation imprinted with the sense that we are all one.

To make volunteering easier than ever, United Way is introducing a new partnership with VolunteerMatch - a web based program (LIVEUNITEDdelval.volunteermatch.org) that can help you select the perfect volunteer opportunities that best meet your interests and your busy schedule.

The more that people within the community work to help others. the better the community works as a whole. If you are currently a volunteer, United Way thanks you. If you have yet to experience the joy of volunteering, now is the perfect time to come on board. Volunteering is like money in the bank. Make a deposit soon.

The return on your investment will amaze you.

For more information about your local United Way, please visit: LIVEUNITEDdelval.org ✽

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Get Rooted Marketing, making your Business a part of our Business

Email:Barry@B4URoot.com Phone: 1.877. 893.2335 Address: PO Box 3253 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

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PRHCOMMUNITY SERVICE

Young America: Christmas from the

Titan Heart

by BRIAN SHEEHAN

O

n a cold and rainy wintry morning last December, two suburban school busses drove through unfamiliar streets in North Philadelphia. The students and faculty inside weren’t thinking about the rain or the bone chilling temperatures. Instead, they anticipated their arrival at a local elementary school where they’d spend the day making gingerbread houses, giving out free lunches, hats, gloves, and most importantly, presents, to children who lived in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city.

Little did many of them know that the events that took place over the course of the day would ultimately change them all, opening their eyes to a world none of them knew existed so close to home.

Developed a few years ago as part of a community service project involving the members of Central Bucks High School South’s Titan Council, the project was designed to give the children of the Isaac A. Sheppard School an early Christmas. Since the zip code the school serves has a 98 percent poverty rate, many of the students’ parents are unable to give their children a Christmas. So the students of C.B. South decided to give back to the community and start The Sheppard Project. Over the years, members of the Titan Council have 122

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remained in touch with the Sheppard students and look forward to returning to the school each season to see how they are doing.

For some members, including junior Kate Schneider, last December marked her first time to the school.

“I wanted to go to the Sheppard School because I like helping people and this project would give me the opportunity to give back as well as allow me to appreciate the things I often take for granted,” Schneider said.

After stepping out of the gray wintry morning and into the warm school, Schneider was greeted by a cold dose of reality.

“Everything really took me by surprise.

Some of these kids had their pajamas on. It just broke my heart to see that we have people living like this so close to home.”

Sheppard Project Coordinator Veronica Tovia describes a similar experience.

“I couldn’t believe what I was looking at.

Some of these kids were bruised and others just looked sad. No little kid should have to ever be sad, especially at Christmas.”

Those frowns were replaced with wide, happy smiles later in the day when beloved Santa visited the students.

“The looks on their faces were priceless,” Tovia said.

While many of the kids tore through the packaging to see what Santa brought them, the Titan council members watched from the side of the room. Some even found themselves wiping away tears of joy as if they were watching their own children.

It was a harsh reality for the students of C.B. South, an $85 million school that serves mostly upper-middle class neighborhoods, when they realized this was going to be the only Christmas gift these children - and many other children across the region - were going to receive.

“Words cannot even describe how different their lives are from ours. It’s just a whole other world down there,” Tovia said.

While many of the students from C.B. South join The Sheppard Project so they can list it as ‘community service’ on college applications, Tovia said that once the day is over, many say they would still do it, even if it didn’t count for anything.

Both Tovia and Schneider agree that while it may seem overwhelming to organize at first, in the end, it is unlike any other eye-opening experience they have ever been a part of. For Tovia, the project helped her realize her calling in life.

“I don’t care if I get paid or not, I just want to be able to help people and give back to those who are not given the opportunities I’ve been given.” ✽

gohomephilly.com

12/7/09 1:25:09 AM

PRHCOMMUNITY SERVICE

Community Spotlight

COPS FOR THE CURE After losing loved ones to breast cancer, Joanne Facenda and Joanne Harrington decided to get in the fight.

“Crying doesn’t help, action does,” they say.

So, in 2006, the two formed the non-profit group called J-Walkers for the Cure and started walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day. The group has grown to 25 members, each committed to raising $2,300 for the Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Their latest fundraiser? A “Cops for the Cure” Calendar featuring photos of local police officers who volunteered to help raise money and awareness for the cause. Photographed by Dana Romano, calendars are $20 and available at jwalkersforthecure.com ✽

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PRHSCHOOLYARD

NOWHERE TO GROW? LOOK DOWN

by LISA PICOZZI photos by TIM SCHADE

R

owhomes, so beloved for their inimitable charm, character and uniqueness, are notorious for being tight on floor space. But options for expanding are severely limited, causing frustrated homeowners to find themselves

running – quite literally – into brick walls.

“Rowhouses are, by nature, a compact way of living,” explains Rachel Schade, AIA, a partner at Schade and Bolender Architects, LLP, in Center City Philadelphia. Schade explains that one solution to the space crunch is constructing a back-end addition, but many homeowners are hesitant to trade precious yard space for living space.

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Sometimes the only viable option for increased rowhome living space is found in the basement.

And since it is inherently impossible to add to the sides of a rowhome, there are only two remaining choices: building up or down – the latter being the more attractive choice because, as Schade explains, there

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12/7/09 1:26:41 AM

PRHSCHOOLYARD are fewer structural and legal issues with which to contend.

Transforming a basement is like painting on a blank canvas, as the options for what your space may become are virtually limitless: exercise room, home office, in-law quarters, media/game room, home theatre, playroom, wine cellar, and so on. While Schade and Bolender have designed a few stand-alone projects that have transformed basements into family or laundry rooms, some of the houses they have reworked on a larger scale (like the one pictured here) include kitchens in the basement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where they may have originally resided, in some cases.

Getting Started Down Under Like any other renovation project, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re considering a basement makeover for your own rowhome, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to start with a plan.

One of the very first issues youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll contend with

fessional to conduct mold, carbon monoxide and radon checks. These are menacing problems that can be remedied relatively easily with the help of a qualified service provider before you start your project.

If your new room is to be used as a sleeping space, keep in mind that your plan must also include installation of an accessible window or external door. Codes require light and air to be available by natural means, and they mandate that, in the event of a fire, there is a way to quickly exit without having to maneuver up through the house.

The Water Factor Because older rowhomes are infamous for basement leaks and floods, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to take waterproofing measures to ensure you can keep your new room reasonably dry and free of damage. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you want to make [this] space habitable,â&#x20AC;? Schade advises, â&#x20AC;&#x153;you want

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transforming a basement is like painting on a blank canvas, as the options for what your space may become are virtually limitless: exercise room, home office, in-law quarters, media/game room, home theatre, playroom, wine cellar, and so on.â&#x20AC;? is whether or not your space has enough height to suit your plan. Building codes require a basement to have a 7-foot ceiling clearance to be refinished as a living space. And while there are sometimes options for excavating to meet this height requirement, this makes the project infinitely more complicated and expensive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and you should consider whether the return would be worth your investment of time and money if you find yourself in that situation.

While still in the planning stage, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also need to check on codes, permits and restrictions on building in your area and in your particular home, especially if your residence is designated as a historical building (check with the Philadelphia Historical Commission, www.phila.gov/historical/index.html, 215.686.7660.).

Next, Schade advises you to ask yourself: What do I need the space for? That will largely determine the layout and features in the room. Think about existing structures like heaters, furnaces and meters and how you will section them off while maintaining adequate storage space. Finally, hire a pro-

to make sure that you can keep the water out. Coatings applied to the interior surface of a foundation that is moist will not last; the source of the water needs to be identified and diverted before coming through the wall.â&#x20AC;?

While regular flooding may derail your plans for renovation, occasional wetness is not necessarily a showstopper. In this case, Schade recommends using a self-draining dehumidifier to remove dampness and installing inexpensive flooring like ceramic tile or painted concrete instead of expensive wood floors and carpeting that may possibly get ruined down the line.

Where to Turn for Help To obtain further information on doing a rowhome basement transformation, including necessary permits, pertinent codes and general guidelines, see The Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual; a Guide for Homeowners, available online at http://www.philaplanning. org/pubinfo/rowhousemanual.pdf.

Second in a series brought to you by Philadelphia MomsLikeMe.com. Join the conversation today. â&#x153;˝

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PRHSCHOOLYARD

ST. NICHOLAS OF TOLENTINE ALL CLASS REUNION

ROWHOME REUNIONS ANNUNCIATION BVM CLASS OF 1974

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12/7/09 1:27:05 AM

PRHSCHOOLYARD

PHILADELPHIA

ROWHOME MAGAZINE Join the PRH Business Network of advertisers for LESS THAN $30 A WEEK! Contact Theresa at 215.462.9777 for details!

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HISTORY MARKS

TOUR OF THE DESTROYER

IVER. RIVER TO R ORHOOD.

ONE NEIGHB

by BRETT JACKSON & MICHAEL RHOADES

T

he Navy’s newest guided-missile destroyer made a port visit to Penn’s Landing for its October 10th commissioning ceremony that placed the ship into active service status.

The USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG-108) is the 58th of the Arleigh Burke-class and carries the 100th Aegis Combat System - the first fully integrated combat system built to detect and defend against air, surface and subsurface threats.

The destroyer weighs 8373 tons and carries two MK III helicopters and 8 Harpoon

Missiles on board.

It was named in honor of Rear Admiral Wayne E. Meyer who was a leading developer in the Aegis Combat System. Rear Admiral Meyer joined the Navy in 1943 and retired in 1985.

He died on September 1, 2009. ✽ The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation hosted the Commissioning Ceremony at Penns Landing and the public was welcome to take a tour of the Ship while it was in Philadelphia. Visit www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com for more information.

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SS

PRH

ROWHOME

MEMORIES

by Dorette Rota Jackson

We all need a break. I realized I was delusional when I decided to downsize Thanksgiving dinner. Not only the number of family members attending the soiree but the entrée selections, as well. I kept thinking to myself, ‘Do we really need to make the gravy, the escarole soup, a turkey and all those sides?’ Somebody requested cornbread. Then they added that green bean cream of mushroom soup casserole. And whose idea was it to bake cheese pies?

And crescent rolls? Has anyone really ever timed this whole fiasco just perfectly? It’s maddening! The turkey’s got to be carved.

The soup has to be hot and do you know how long it takes those candied yams to cook in a conventional oven!

It didn’t take much to get Dawn on board.

Which was extremely surprising since she’s the gourmet chef in our family. I’m talking ‘serious’ cook, here. Tefal excites her as much as Tiffany.

‘Let’s just make a ham,’ she says.

‘A ham? You can’t eat ham for Thanksgiving’ I tell her.

‘The thought of touching a turkey is making me nauseous’ she snaps. ‘Why am I always the one who has to pull that sack of organs out of a hole in a dead bird’s chest?’

Here we go again. She catches me rolling my eyes.

‘Ple-eaa-sse!’ I beg her. ‘Not daddy’s old hunting stories again. He hunted! What can I tell you? Lots of people hunt!’

‘It traumatized me!’ she nags. ‘But you

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wouldn’t know that. You were too busy reading in your room...’

‘Listen. Do you want to figure this dinner thing out or do you want to keep whining your middle child woes?’

If looks could kill.

‘Why don’t we all retreat to our own little pods and enjoy Thanksgiving in the privacy of our own homes?’ I suggest. ‘We can cook a little of everything instead of a lot of everything. We all have leftovers. We don’t have to get out of our pajamas or answer the phone!’ I am seriously excited.

Silence.

We’re thinking about the last time we tried to break with the old and start a new family tradition.

Dawn’s Thanksgiving getaway to the casino was a complete flop a few years back.

She thought her son would always remember seeing the ocean on Thanksgiving morning.

‘Your kid could care less. He spent most of the time calling me from your hotel room and the rest of the time ordering room service,’ I remind her.

‘And the ‘traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner’ at the Five-Star Steakhouse,’ she grunts. ‘Cost us a fortune.’

More silence.

‘I’ll make the escarole soup. You make the gravy. Ravioli not lasagna.’

‘What about the turkey?’ she blabs.

‘You have better pans.’

Tradition. You can’t live with it…

6

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The Atrium at the Curtis Center Independence Square West at 6th and Walnut Philadelphia, PA 19106 212-238-5750

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Also visit our original location, Cescaphe Ballroom 923 N. 2nd Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-238-5750 www.cescapheballroom.com

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