Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is the Area Agency on Aging for Philadelphia County and is dedicated to serving Philadelphia’s older adults and adults with disabilities.
PCA publishes Milestones and offers:
• Care in the home
• Caregiver & grandparent support
• Employment & volunteer programs
• Health education
• Home-delivered meals
• Home repairs & modifications
• Information & referral
• Legal services
• Ombudsman services
• Protective services
• Senior centers
• Transportation
• Veteran-directed care
Report suspected elder abuse 24/7 to the PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040.
For general inquiries about PCA or aging services, email AskHelpline@pcaCares.org or call 215-765-9040.
Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP President and CEO
PCA Board of Directors 2025
Glenn D. Bryan, Chair
Louis G. Colbert, Co-Chair
Jaqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D., Secretary
Denise Adamucci, Treasurer
Satya B. Verma, O.D., Immediate Past Chair
Cheryl Croxton
Patricia Canela-Duckett
Sandra McNally
Norma D. Thomas, DSW
Sharlene Waller
Milestones is published monthly and distributed at more than 800 locations throughout Philadelphia.
Check us out online: pcaCares.org/ Milestones
Editorial & Distribution: Alicia M. Colombo 215-765-9000, ext. 5081 MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org
Advertising: Kristin Long 215-606-7310 Kristin.Long@pcaCares.org
Subscriptions: Home delivery: $12/year MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org
The views expressed in Milestones are not necessarily those of Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Milestones will not knowingly accept or publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. Milestones reserves the right to edit, revise or reject ads. Milestones assumes no responsibility for errors, misprints, omissions or misinformation; for failure to publish an ad; or for any damages of any kind. Neither the publisher nor any other party is rendering expert advice in this publication. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without the permission of PCA.
Proposed cuts to aging programs at federal level cause concern
By Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP PCA President & CEO
Last month, we told you about the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) restructuring. This change caused the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to be broken apart. ACL is the federal agency at HHS that administers the Older Americans Act (OAA). Various aging services programs under ACL would be split up and moved to other HHS agencies.
Since then, a draft copy of the President’s fiscal year 2026 budget for HHS was leaked. The leaked draft budget separates OAA programs into multiple HHS agencies. It also proposes elimination of funding in fiscal year 2026 for several critical programs. These programs include:
• Evidence-based health promotion and
disease prevention programs.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs.
• State Health Insurance Assistance Programs.
• Aging and Disability Resource Centers.
• Elder justice programs.
Since the leak, President Trump released his “skinny” budget to Congress. It did not contain additional details. This lack of information has caused concern among advocates. It may mean that proposed cuts and changes to aging programs are still being considered.
The full budget has not been released yet. Funding levels also need to be approved by Congress. Cuts to OAA-funded services would have wide-ranging impacts on older adults nationwide.
Additionally, congress is considering more than $700 billion in Medicaid cuts and $300 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in their reconciliation bill.
These cuts would be devastating. More than 10 million people will likely lose Medicaid coverage. More than seven million people will be uninsured. This will put older adults and people with disabilities at risk of losing coverage for critical homeand community-based services.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) will continue to monitor changes at the federal level. We’re closely watching the possible effects on older adults and adults with disabilities. We will keep advocating for programs and services that support the people we serve.
For the latest news about changes to services for older adults, visit www. pcaCares.org.
Raising awareness of elder abuse: Event provides support, expert advice
By Bill Conallen
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15 each year. WEAAD shines a spotlight on the mistreatment of older adults. It is also an opportunity to promote the rights and dignity of aging individuals.
Elder abuse can take many forms. These include physical, emotional, financial and sexual abuse, and neglect or self-neglect. One in 10 older adults will experience some form of abuse. But the vast majority of elder abuse cases go unreported.
Addressing self-neglect
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) will host a free seminar on Tuesday, June 11, starting at 9:30 a.m., at 642 N. Broad St. The event is for professionals who work with older adults. Social workers, care managers, nurses and direct service staff are invited. The topic is “Working with Cli-
The June 11 event will feature expert presentations and interactive discussions. The following are discussion topics:
• Identifying the signs of self-neglect.
• Understanding the psychological and medical factors that contribute to this behavior.
• Navigating the ethical and legal responsibilities of intervention.
• Building trust with people who are reluctant to accept help.
In cases of self-neglect, OAPS staff often engage in outreach and work to build relationships. This encourages older adults to accept help. While every situation is unique, the goal is the same. PCA helps older adults live safely and with dignity in the setting of their choice.
ents who Self-Neglect.” This is a growing and complex issue in aging services.
Self-neglect is among the most challenging forms of elder abuse to identify and address. It occurs when older adults are no longer able or willing to care for themselves. Self-neglect can include neglecting one’s own health, hygiene, nutrition or safety. Unlike other forms of abuse, self-neglect does not involve a perpetrator. But it can still result in serious harm or even death.
Individuals who self-neglect may do the following:
• Live in unsanitary or unsafe conditions.
• Refuse help.
• Fail to take prescribed medications.
• Isolate themselves from family, friends and service providers.
• Developing approaches to make the person’s autonomy and safety a priority.
• Collaborating with community resources.
• Documenting concerns and interventions.
• Protecting older adults.
The focus of PCA’s Older Adult Protective Services (OAPS) unit is to prevent and mitigate elder abuse. The unit investigates reports of abuse, neglect, exploitation and abandonment of older Philadelphians. PCA’s OAPS receives thousands of elder abuse reports each year. Staff work tirelessly to address each case with compassion, diligence and respect. The rights of older adults are paramount. Trained protective services staff conduct a thorough investigation of each report. The older adult’s needs and risks are assessed. Supportive services are coordinated, if warranted.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect older adults from harm,” said Tamikia Morris, PCA’s director of Older Adult Protective Services. “Self-neglect is especially difficult because it doesn’t always look like abuse. But the impact can be as devastating. Our June 11 event will offer tools and insights to help professionals better support those who may be struggling in silence.” PCA encourages professionals who work with older adults to attend this informative event. To register, visit www.pcaCares.org or call the PCA Helpline at 215765-9040.
If you suspect any form of elder abuse in Philadelphia, you can make a confidential report 24/7. Call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040.
Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.
STOP SENIOR SCAMS: How to prevent elder financial abuse
Source: AARP
Each year, older adults lose $28.3 billion to financial abuse and scams, AARP reports. Financial abuse is the illegal or improper use of an older adult’s money, property or assets.
Strangers may try to steal money through scams. But financial abuse often comes from someone the person knows. Family members, especially adult children, are often the culprits. Even worse, these crimes are often not reported. In most cases, you can prevent financial abuse. Take these steps to help protect yourself or a vulnerable loved one from losing money.
Choose someone you trust as your financial power of attorney.
This person, called an “agent,” can make financial decisions for you if you are unable. Customizing the role to meet your needs is recommended. You
transactions. They cannot conduct business or access funds. View-only access is a safer option than creating a joint bank account. A joint account allows all account holders to make withdrawals. Your money becomes theirs upon your death without any action required. Contact your bank to add a trusted contact or view-only user to your account.
Consider services that monitor your bank accounts, investments and credit cards.
regularly, then call, email or text. Older people can avoid loneliness by getting involved with others. They can join a faith community, volunteer, or take part in social groups. Senior community centers are perfect for making new friends and staying social. PCA funds 28 senior centers and satellite meal locations throughout Philadelphia. For information: 215-765-9040 | www.pcaCares.org/senior-centers
Get to know your loved one’s caregivers.
may want to select an agent to handle all financial matters. Or you may choose to have the agent only file taxes or manage property. Contact a lawyer to help you draft a financial power of attorney that meets your specific needs. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) provides free legal services to older Philadelphians. For information: 215-765-9040 | www.pcaCares.org/legal-services
Appoint a trusted contact for accounts and investments.
A trusted contact is a person you allow your bank to reach out to about any suspicious activity on your account. The bank can disclose some account information to your trusted contact. But he or she cannot make transactions. Another option is to give someone you trust view-only access to your account, if you feel this would be helpful to you. View-only users can only monitor your
Technology can detect suspicious financial activity. This includes missing deposits, unusual withdrawals or sudden changes in spending patterns. Apps and online services can notify you and a trusted advocate when they detect a problem.
Credit monitoring services provide frontline protection to detect scams, fraud and identity theft. They can also offer support to help recover lost money.
Banks and credit cards may also offer fraud detection services. One example is an email alert when someone makes a charge or withdrawal above a set amount.
Stay in touch with loved ones.
As we get older, we often lose close connections. This occurs through retirement, moving, death and other life changes. Social isolation is a big risk factor for elder financial abuse, says the National Center on Elder Abuse.
Maintain close contact with family members. If you can’t visit
Watch out for people who try to cut you off from family and friends. Be careful if someone pushes you on money choices or asks for a lot of cash. This is suspicious behavior, even from someone you know.
If you need in-home help for a loved one, think about using a bonded agency. They screen their staff and take action if theft occurs.
If you are concerned about your loved one, observe the caregiver’s behavior. Notice if your loved one is clean, fed and given medications.
If you or someone you know suspects any form of elder abuse, including financial, report it. Call the PCA Helpline, 24/7, at 215-765-9040.
Housing service programs help older adults age in place
By Jay Nachman
Most (89%) Americans, aged 45 and older, want to stay in their current home and community, reports AARP.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) helps older adults age in place.
“People want to remain in their homes,” says Mark Myers, PCA’s housing director. “They don’t want to go into a nursing home. They also don’t want to go into another type of living arrangement. They want to stay in their homes. They’re familiar with the communities. Many older Philadelphians have been in their communities for 30, 40 and 50 years. Their friends are there. Their family members are there, and they want to stay there.”
Housing Sustainability Program
PCA recently received a grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This grant will support aging in place through its Housing Sustainability Program. It funds housing modifications to keep older adults in their homes safely for longer. The program helps Philadelphians who are 62 or older and earn 80% or less of the average median income.
The grants cover minor repairs and modifications. Work takes place after an assessment by a licensed occupational therapist.
The initiative aims to:
• Reduce barriers to mobility.
• Improve safety.
• Promote aging in place.
The program helps people who have trouble with daily activities. “Housing modifications boost quality of life, reduce institutionalization and enhance independence,” says Alyssa Kalter, PCA’s Housing Sustainability Program manager.
The Housing Sustainability Program receives referrals from the Built to Last program. Built to Last is a whole-home repair program for Philadelphia homeowners. It combines the City’s home repair, energy conservation and healthy homes programs. The coordinated services make homes more affordable, healthier and safer places to live.
To learn more or to sign up for the Built to Last program, call 215-6864483 or visit philaenergy.org. (Click “Programs” and select “Built to Last” from the menu.)
Built to Last has a waitlist. Kalter suggests that interested homeowners sign up soon.
“Planning gives older adults more control and independence as they age,” Kalter says. “Planning for aging in place with home modifications can also reduce stress in a crisis. A fall or sudden health decline can lead to rushed or reactive decisions. This can severely limit options and make decisions more costly.”
Simple things you can do to make your home safer
You can make easy, free or low-cost home improvements to stay safe and comfortable at home. Here is a sample of suggestions from AARP.
No-cost changes:
• Open blinds and curtains and raise shades during daylight hours. This will increase natural light inside the home.
• Place exposed electrical, telephone and computer cords along a wall. This will prevent people from tripping over a cord.
• Remove all cords from under furniture or carpeting to lessen the risk of fire.
• Remove clutter from stairways and passageways to help prevent trips and falls.
• Check the carpeting on your stairs to confirm it is securely attached.
• Place furniture so people can walk through easily.
• Store flammable liquids in secure, labeled containers. This includes gasoline, cleaning products and paint thinner. Move them away from the home, if possible.
Low-cost home improvements ($35 or less):
• Use the highest-watt or LED light bulbs that fit your fixtures or lamps to increase light.
• Place nightlights in the bathroom. Also, add them in the bedroom and hallways to the bathroom.
• Use a rubber suction bathmat, anti-slip floor strips or decals in the tub or shower.
• Replace knobs on cabinets and drawers with easy-to-grip D-shaped handles.
• Replace traditional light switches with easy-to-use rocker-style light switches.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the house. Focus on areas near the bedrooms.
• If needed, replace any frayed or worn extension and appliance cords.
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
To help residents find Wi-Fi locations, the city created a simple online tool. You can search by your ZIP code or neighborhood to find nearby spots with free internet. Try the Philly Free Wi-Fi Finder at www.phila.gov/wifi. Free public Wi-Fi now available in many Philadelphia neighborhoods
Source: City of Philadelphia
The City of Philadelphia wants to help everyone get online, especially older adults. Free public WiFi is being added to more than 180 locations across the city. These locations provide fast – and free –internet access within the community. Areas include libraries, senior centers, parks and museums. Free Wi-Fi is a great resource to help people stay informed. Internet access lets you check email, join a video call or read the news online. Wi-Fi provides a way to connect while out in the community. It is especially helpful to people without home internet. Philadelphia’s free Wi-Fi net-
work started in October 2024 with more than 50 hot spots. The Office of Innovation & Technology and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation partnered on this service. A new agreement with Verizon allowed for the Wi-Fi expansion.
Events
June 2025
THIS MONTH:
• LGBTQ+ Pride Month
• June 14: Flag Day
• June 15: World Elder Abuse
Awareness Day
• June 15: Father’s Day
• June 19: Juneteenth
JUNE 3
ENHANCED FITNESS
Low-impact, full-body workout for older adults. Improve strength, flexibility & mobility. It also increases overall health & well-being.10 a.m. Center in the Park. 215848-772 | Free
JUNE 4
BINGO
10 a.m. Philadelphia Senior Center –Allegheny. 267-286-1455 | 10 cents a board (minimum of 6 boards)
JUNE 5
Send your calendar items two months in advance to: MilestonesNews@pcaCares.org Questions? Call 215-765-9000, ext. 5081.
OPEN TECH CENTER
Some instruction available for technology, such as iPads, cell phones & Zoom. 10 a.m. KleinLife: Northeast Philadelphia. 215-6987300 | Free
JUNE 6
LINE DANCE CLASS
Beginners to seasoned dancers welcome. 9:30 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
JUNE 9
STRETCH & SHAKE
Low-impact exercise class with gentle stretching & upbeat movements. Improves flexibility, balance & energy. 12:45 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Center- Allegheny. 267286-1455 | Free
JUNE 10
QUILTING CLASS
Welcoming space to develop skills. Noon. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215685-2715 | Free
JUNE 11
BILLIARDS
Relaxed & friendly environment to enjoy the game of pool. 9 a.m. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center. 215-685-2715 | Free
JUNE 12
PCA’S CAROUSEL OF TALENT
Performances by older adults include singing & dancing. 1:30 p.m. Philadelphia Senior Center- Avenue of the Arts. 215-5465879 | Free
JUNE 13
PINOCHLE
Sharpen your mind & enjoy friendly competition. Learn rules, strategies & techniques. 1 p.m. Journey’s Way. 215487-1750 | Free
JUNE
16
LGBTQ ELDER DBT SKILLS BUILDING GROUP
Dialectical behavior therapy teaches skills to tolerate distress, manage emotions, increase mindfulness & build interpersonal effectiveness. 3-4:30 p.m. William Way LGBT Community Center. Register: 267858-8010 | Free | 10 sessions
JUNE 16
MAT YOGA
In Touch Yoga blends physical yoga poses, breathwork & meditation to help people become more in touch with their bodies. 4 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-4268610 | Free
Play any card game you would like with others. Cards are provided. Noon. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
JUNE 26
POETRY CLASS
Engaging & interactive writing class for older adults who want to explore the art of poetry. Beginners welcome. 10:30 a.m. Center in the Park. 215-848-772 | Free
JUNE 30
COOKING CLASS
Each week participants learn to cook a new healthy dish, taste it & take home the recipe. 10 a.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-426-8610 | Free
Programs for LGBTQ+ elders
The Elder Initiative at William Way LGBTQ+ Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., hosts a variety of weekly & monthly programs for LGBTQ+ older adults. The following are just a few of the regular events. For more information, call the center at 215-720-9415 or visit https:// ElderInitiative.WayGay.org. For Zoom links, email elders@WayGay. org.
Friday Check In – Fridays on Zoom, from Noon to 1 p.m.
Each week, a facilitator guides this confidential, friendly session for LGBTQ 50+ community members to share what is on their mind.
MorningsOut – Tuesdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Zoom last Tuesday of month) Social & educational group for gay, bisexual & transgender men who are 50 & older. Join for discussion topics, presentations, tours, events & more.
The Doctor Is In – Second Wednesday of each month, 12-1 p.m. In-person presentation by geriatricians & palliative care professionals. Each month covers a different health topic relevant to LGBTQ communities. Next meeting: June 11 about nutrition. (No meeting in July.)
OLDER ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
For Older Philadelphians at Risk
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR OLDER ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES?
Protective services are available to those older adults with all of the following characteristics:
• Are 60 years of age or older
• Live in Philadelphia County
• Are incapacitated mentally or physically or can’t perform basic tasks of self-care
• Lack a responsible caretaker
• Are believed to be at-risk of imminent danger
Those who reach out to PCA for assistance but do not meet these characteristics are referred to other social services within PCA or other relevant agencies as appropriate.
WHAT ARE OLDER ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES?
PCA’s Older Adult Protective Services are those activities, resources and supports provided to older Philadelphians to detect, prevent, reduce, or eliminate the following:
• Self-neglect
• Neglect by a caregiver
• Physical, sexual, or psychological abuse
• Financial exploitation – misuse of money, resources, or personal property
• Abandonment
Staffed by trained care managers, investigators and specialists, Older Adult Protective Services are available to older adults through PCA to provide:
• Intake
• Assessment
• Investigation
• Care planning/Risk mitigation
• Crisis resolution
• Follow-up Services
HOW REPORTS OF NEED ARE MADE
Older Adult Protective Services are provided by calling PCA’s Helpline, 215-765-9040, (outside Philadelphia, toll-free 1-888- 482-9060) 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Anyone may call and report an older adult in need and remain anonymous. As mandated by law, all reports are strictly confidential.
**If anyone is in imminent danger, please call 911.
Partners in life, love and creativity: Michael Biello and Dan Martin
By Jay Nachman
Multi-disciplinary artist Michael Biello and musician Dan Martin are true partners. They have been together in life, love and creativity since meeting a half-century ago. Their relationship is expressed in the lyrics of a recent collaboration. “Elderland” is a work-inprogress musical theater piece. It is inspired by life stories gathered from a group of elders living in a retirement community in South Florida.
“IT GROWS STRONGER, LOVE DOES THE LONGER WE HOLD ON NOT A TIGHT HOLD BUT A GENTLE CARESS
LOVE IS THE ANSWER TO EACH AND EVERY QUESTION HOWEVER LONG LIFE MAY ALLOW
SO HERE, NOW, WITH YOU, TODAY
I AGREE TO STAY … I AGREE TO STAY … WE AGREE TO STAY”
Both men are from the area. Biello, 73, graduated from West Catholic High School. Martin, 72, graduated from Abington Senior High School. They met at a workshop at Antioch College in Ohio. Biello was a dancer with Group Motion. Martin was working as a pianist, playing with dance companies and other artists.
“From the beginning of our relationship, I would set his poems to music. They were the first songs that we wrote together,” Martin says. He primarily plays piano but also plays guitar and flute. Thus, Biello added to his artistic portfolio as a writer and lyricist for musical theater.
The couple began presenting original performance-art musicals around the country about their relationship. They would take the stage together to tell their stories. We’re “not doing it to make a big point. But doing it because that was our truth,” Biello says. “We’re just telling our truth. If straight people can do it, so can I do it.”
Since the early 1990s, they’ve transformed their writing. It’s now critically acclaimed body of musical theater work.
“A lot of our work is very universal. It’s about love, it’s about family, it’s about spirituality,” Martin says. “We weren’t out to
shock. We wrote passionate pieces because of our experience when we lost friends to AIDS. But it’s always been about love at the heart. We’re still doing that.”
In the 1980s, the couple moved to New York. They thought their sometimes provocative work would find greater acceptance there. It did -- in both the gay and straight communities. While in New York, they started gathering LGBTQ musicians together in their living room. This organization was a first, they believe. This led to public concerts by the members of the community they had assembled. At the same time, Biello was showing clay pieces he was sculpting in galleries.
In the early 2000s, they moved back to Philadelphia to take care of Biello’s aging parents.
As a result of their collaboration, Martin says, “We’re mildly famous. (We) moved the needle, (and) moved forward queer self-expression. Owning it, loving it and sharing it.”
That doesn’t mean that the pair hasn’t faced homophobia. The artistic community has provided a shield of sorts. Being artists themselves, they were somewhat insulated from employment discrimination.
They are now working on “Michael & Dan’s Amazing Queer Songbook.” This musical documentary honors their shared life, LGBTQ activism, and legacy projects.
In addition to collaborating, Martin writes, arranges and pro-
duces music for other artists. Biello is focusing on his ceramic sculptures. He currently has an exhibition at The Clay Studio, called “holy.body.”
At this stage of his life, Biello is less concerned with people accepting his work. “At this age, with the show at The Clay Studio and the new musical we’re writing, ‘Elderland,” it’s my time to just be. I want to trust that what I’m doing is taking me where I need to go. ...That’s why I’m here on the planet. And whether people have made a big deal out of them or not, they’ve changed some people’s lives. They’ve affected some people. And they are going to live longer than me because it’s art and theater.”
The artistic give-and-take with his partner makes the work special. Biello says, “To be doing that with the person I did it with 50 years ago, it only grows stronger. It just does.”
Michael Biello’s exhibition “holy.body” runs through June 29. It’s on display at The Clay Studio, 1425 N. American St. His sculptures depict what he calls the “holiness of the body.”
“Through art we heal,” Biello says. “Art has always been my path to finding center in a sometimes unsettling, ever-changing world. Art is my sanctuary, where I can feel safe in the midst of the madness.”
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
MARRIAGE RECORDS
We require:
The names that both people used when they applied for the marriage license
The date of the marriage
A self-addressed, stamped envelope
A telephone number
Please Note: Each money order should be payable to the CITY OF PHILADELPHIA Find and Request a Marriage Record
To Request a Certified Copy:
$40 money order for the certified copy fee
$70 money order for the expedited certified copy fee
To Request an Exemplified Copy:
$65 money order for the certified copy fee
$95 money order for the expedited certified copy fee
Miss Lisa Lisa: The heart of Philly’s longest-running drag show
By Sarah Greer
Every Thursday night for 30 years, one woman has taken the stage to light up a small bar on South Street. Her name is Miss Lisa Lisa.
Bob and Barbara’s Lounge at 1509 South St. was opened by Robert Porter and Barbara Carter back in 1969. It has been a South Street staple ever since.
“It’s not a straight bar. It’s not a gay bar. The ambiguity of it is the best thing. There’s no label. It doesn’t matter who you are; you are welcome here,” said general manager Katrina Duva in a CBS Philadelphia interview. This sentiment makes the bar the perfect home for Miss Lisa Lisa’s drag show.
Miss Lisa Lisa has been performing, hosting and
LGBTQ+ communities. They help people connect and express themselves. From the trailblazing performances of icons, like Marsha P. Johnson and Crystal LaBeija, to today’s vibrant local scenes, their creativity and leadership have shaped drag into the dynamic cultural force it is today.
Today’s drag culture is more visible, thanks to television and social media. But its roots run deep. Drag was shaped by pioneers, like Miss Lisa Lisa. These pioneers built community and created magic long before drag became mainstream. Today, drag is more recognized than ever.
authentic and joyful.
What’s most impressive isn’t just how long the show has lasted. It’s how steady Miss Lisa Lisa’s presence has been through all those years. She keeps showing up, adjusting to the times and giving the crowd a great show.
“She’s a Philly treasure,” says one fan of the show. “The kind of person who reminds you what being part of something bigger means.”
entertaining in Philadelphia for decades. The weekly drag show at Bob & Barbara’s Lounge is the longest-running drag show in Philadelphia and the country. In 2023, Miss Lisa Lisa earned the title of “Drag Veteran” in Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly Awards.
Drag has a long and powerful history in the LGBTQ+ community. It began in underground clubs. It’s a form of performance that challenges traditional ideas of identity and self-expression. Over time, drag has become a global art form that blends theater, fashion and activism. Drag shows create safe and joyful spaces. They are a place for celebration and support, often led by Black and brown performers.
Drag balls are powerful spaces for Black and brown
Long before drag was popular on TV, Miss Lisa Lisa was on stage every week. She makes people laugh, cheer and feel at home. “I was probably the first trans woman that was doing the show,” Miss Lisa Lisa says. “But I came with a whole different style. So that’s how it happened.”
Miss Lisa Lisa is not just a performer. She’s a mentor, a leader and a respected member in Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community. The weekly drag show at Bob & Barbara’s Lounge is proof of her dedication and talent. It’s a place where locals, tourists, and longtime fans gather — week after week — to experience something
LGBTQ+ Pride Month in June is the perfect time to honor the icons in our own backyard. Miss Lisa Lisa has shown us that legacy isn’t built overnight. Rather, it’s built with each step on the stage, each story told and each person made to feel seen. Her drag show isn’t just a performance. It’s a piece of Philadelphia history.
(See page 15 for crossword)
Sarah Greer is the communications manager at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA).
Miss Lisa Lisa (pictured above holding a microphone) has performed in America’s longest-running drag show for 30 years.
Cool places for a hot summer
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
Summer brings plenty of sunshine and warmth. But intense heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable or even risky. There are plenty of indoor, air-conditioned activities you can enjoy.
Older adults will receive a warm welcome at senior centers. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) funds 28 senior community centers and satellite meal sites in the city. Each center offers unique programming. All promote socialization and a healthy lifestyle. Activities include classes, exercise and crafts. Attendees can connect to a variety of programs and services at their local senior center. These include transportation, legal assistance and volunteer opportunities. Lunch is served weekdays at all centers. To find a center near you, call The PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit www.pcaCares.org/senior-centers.
The Arthur Ross Gallery is a learning lab. Visitors can engage with important and rare art and artifacts. The gallery shows interesting art from different cultures, me-
dia and time periods. Admission is free. The Arthur Ross Gallery is open daily. (Learn more: 220 S. 34th St. | 215-898-2083 | www. ArthurRossGallery.org)
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is affiliated with the Smithsonian. It brings the American Jewish experience to life. This museum shows the diversity and freedoms that Americans seek. Tickets are free with a suggested donation. (Learn more: 101 S. Independence Mall East | 215-923-3811 | https:// TheWeitzman.org)
The Barnes Foundation showcases art by visual connections. The art is not labeled like in a typical museum. To learn more about a specific artwork, a guided tour is recommended. The Barnes Foundation is open Thursday through Monday. (Learn more: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway | 215278-7000 | www.BarnesFoundation.org)
The Academy of Natural Sciences at Drexel University offers adult education. Activities include lectures, workshops and dinosaur skeletons. The museum presents
a variety of shows and live exhibits in its auditorium. Admission for adults 65 and older is $21 in person or $19 online. Weekdays, after 3 p.m., everyone gets in for just $10. The Academy of Natural Sciences is open Wednesdays through Sundays. (Learn more: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway | 215-299-1000 | https://ansp.org)
The Museum of Illusions explores the world of optical illusions. Solve hands-on puzzles or view exhibits that challenge your perception. The Museum of Illusions is open daily. Tickets are $23.50 for adults 60 or older. (Learn more: 401 Market St. | 267703-2270 | https://moiphilly.com)
The National Constitution Center is the only museum focused on the U.S. Constitution. Constitutional education and debate is explored through interactive exhibits, rare artifacts and performances. The center is open Wednesdays through Sundays. Tickets for adults 65 and older are $15. (Learn more: 525 Arch St. | 215-409-6600 | https://constitutioncenter.org)
The African American Museum in Philadelphia showcases African American culture and history. It’s the first big city museum that preserves and shares African American heritage. The museum shows the achievements and dreams of African Americans. It covers their history from pre-colonial times to today. The African American Museum in Philadelphia is open Thursday through Sunday. Admission is $10 for older adults.
The Athenaeum of Philadelphia is a cultural forum of books, art and architecture. It strengthens our community through cultural engagement and fellowship. The Athenaeum of Philadelphia offers a speaker series featuring authors, architects and scholars. There are also book clubs, conversations and workshops. The Athenaeum is free and open Monday through Saturday. (Learn more: 219 S. 6th St. | 215-925-2688 | https:// PhilaAthenaeum.org)
Free Library of Philadelphia has 55 neighborhood branches. Many libraries have air conditioning. These include Parkway Central Library, Fumo Family Library and Logan Library. Library branches offer weekly activities, including yoga and book clubs. To find a branch near you, call 1-833TALK FLP (825-5357) or visit www.FreeLibrary.org/locations. Watch a movie. Philadelphia is home to more than 10 movie theaters. These are comfortable and air conditioned. Discounts are often available for older adults. Showtimes during the week, mornings or early afternoons may also be less expensive. Inquire at the theater for pricing details. Independent or foreign films are shown at Ritz 5 at 215 Walnut St. or the Film Society at the Bourse at 400 Ranstead St.
Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.
Stay safe in the heat and sun
Source: Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA)
It is important to take care of yourself in the heat and strong sun. Heat-related illness often affects older adults, people with disabilities and children.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) offers the tips below to keep you safe, when out in the heat.
Stay cool:
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Stay in air-conditioned buildings. If your home is not air-conditioned, spend hot days at locations with AC. These can include a senior center, library or a trusted friend/ neighbor’s house.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink plenty of water. Do not wait until you’re thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.
Celestial
Seek medical attention for these symptoms:
• Heavy sweating.
• Headache.
• Weakness, fatigue, dizziness.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Very high body temperature.
• Confusion.
• Pounding headache.
• Unconsciousness.
During a Heat Health Emergency in the City of Philadelphia, PCA operates its Heatline. The Heatline is open to callers of all ages for extended hours. Callers learn how to prevent heat-related illness and detect signs of heat stress. For more information, call 215-765-9040 or visit pcaCares. org. For information about the City’s cooling centers, public pools and spray grounds, call 311 or go to Phila.gov.
