Dining In 2015

Dining In

Old world recipes for a new generation

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Foods from the family archives

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH 2015 VOL 26_ISSUE 36_2015 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM $4.99 US

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Insidethis issue 16_LIFE Philly’s hidden history gems

by Marialena Rago

24_ SALUTE TO SERVICE

January | February | March 2015

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An Affair to Remember PRH celebrates its 2014 Blue Sapphire & WishRock Award Winners at Vie photos by Andrew Andreozzi, Phil Kramer & John McMullen

38_THE MENU Dining In Old World Recipes for a New Generation

Street Beat Local Band Spotlight: The Johnny Pompo Band

by Bob Wagner / photo by Stephanie Farlow

54_ FASHION Spring ahead in sensuous suede photo by Zave Smith

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62_MUSIC & THE ARTS

72_FILM History Making Productions presents Urban Trinity- The Story of Catholic Philadelphia

by Sam Katz, Executive Producer

FILM

16 life

90_ ROWHOME REMEMBERS A Salute to the Turkey Bowl

by Tony Santini

54

FASHION

38

THE MENU

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VALLEY GREEN BANK’S SOUTH PHILADELPHIA BRANCH IS THE PROUD RECIPIENT OF THE BEST OVERALL DESIGN FOR THE 2014 STOREFRONT CHALLENGE AWARD.

Competition sponsored by the Philadelphia Department of Commerce and the Community Design Collaborative. Congratulations to our architect, Metcalfe Architecture & Design.

www.valleygreenbank.com Mt Airy | 215.242.3550 Chestnut Hill | 215.242.1550 South Philadelphia* | 215.462.2265 Radnor | 610.995.2265 Center City | 215.569.2265 *Hours: Weekdays 8:30 to 5 and Saturday 9 to 12

VOLUME _26 ISSUE 36_ 2015 gohomephilly.com

regulars

January | February | March 2015

PRESSED

96

6_FROM THE PUBLISHERS There’s plenty of pasta to go around! PRH Business Spotlight - Pastificio!

10_MAILBOX Readers rave about Affair to Remember & Blue Sapphire Awards

50_BRIDES GUIDE Fate, Fanfare & a Fancy Brigade!

Featuring James & Lindsay Colongo

by Joe Volpe, Cescaphe Event Group photos by Capone Photography

12_NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR 1953. Atlantic City

50 brides guide

20_HANGIN’ OUT 56_GREENSPACE

PRH readers hang with the stars!

Farm to Table

by Kerri-Lee Mayland

88_ON THE CORNER Family Matters. Mark Casasanto has a sit-down with Mob Wives’ Natalie DiDonato

96_PRESSED

on the cover

by Dorette Rota Jackson

GREENSPACE

Memories define us. As families. As neighbors. As people who care about each other and the traditions that bind us. We cook and we bake and we share because we watched in wonder. And repeated what we learned. And now we pass those memories on to our children. Family recipes, like memories, that sustain and comfort. Old world

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recipes for a new generation.

Begins on page 37.

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Philadelphia lit by

LOCAL 98 We wish you and your families a healthy, happy & prosperous New Year.

May all of your dreams and wishes come true.

John J. Dougherty Business Manager IBEW Local 98

photo hair

Phil Kramer The Cutting Point

staging

Remark Productions

Plenty of Pasta to go around! rank Sangiuliano and Anthony Messina have known each other a long time. They grew up in the same neighborhood.

Packer Park. Went to the same grade school. Holy Spirit. And learned the same trade. Carpentry. They are even members of the same family. Brothers-in-law.

Almost a dozen years ago, they

F

decided to “stop building houses and start building dreams”. They traded their hammers for a pasta machine and surrounded themselves with the foods and flavors of their rich Italian heritage.

Not only did they build their pasta factory from the ground up, they learned how to prepare their own foods on-site.

Nestled in the Packer Park Shopping

Center in the shadows of South Philly’s famous Sports Stadiums, Pastificio feeds a neighborhood hungry for tradition.

Homemade pasta. Sauces. Meatballs.

Fresh mozzarella. Imported Italian delicacies. And tray after tray of awardwinning hoagies, chicken cutlet combos and mouth-watering, heat & eat entrees featuring authentic family recipes.

Old world recipes for a new generation!

Dorette & Dawn

Do you want your business featured on our Publishers’ Page?

Call PRH at 215.462.9777 for details. * Food products depicted in this photograph were used for staging purposes only

Philly Pastificio 1528 Packer Avenue

Homemade

Pasta

pastificiophilly.com

Co. 215.467.1111

VOLUME_26 ISSUE 36 January | February | March 2015 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

President | Publisher Dorette Rota Jackson

Vice President | Publisher Dawn Rhoades

Editor Dorette Rota Jackson

Vice President Marketing & Promotions Dawn Rhoades

Creative Director | production Omar Rubio

Contributors Jennifer Barkowitz Mark Casasanto David Cava Sara Canuso Frank DePasquale Jr., Esq Dr. Richard Dittrich Liz Emory Larry Gallone Brett Jackson Maria Merlino

Dr. James Moylan Daniel Olivieri, III Phyllis Palermo Sharon Pinkenson Michael Rhoades Leo Rossi Jade Rota Tony Santini David Spitzberg, CPA Bob Wagner

Marketing & Editorial Assistant Jennifer Barkowitz

Green space Editor Kerri-Lee Mayland

THE BRIDES GUIDE Joseph Volpe

COPY COORDINATOR / THE MENU Maria Merlino

JUNIOR COPY COORDINATOR Nicolette Retallick

Marketing Communications Coordinator Carol Vassallo

Photographers Andrew Andreozzi Phil Kramer Maria Merlino John McMullen

Account Manager Theresa Palestino

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mike Rhoades

Published by

Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 | Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.com | www.phillyrowhome.wordpress.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. 2015 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 & Dawn

God bless you and your family! Thank you for the honor and the wonderful evening (An Affair to Remember IX & 2014 Blue Sapphire Awards) in which all the honorees and guests enjoyed! Congratulations to the entire family.

Love and blessings Ukee Washington

Dear Dorette & Dawn

T ROAST - S INGLEY INSURANCE

AGENCY, LLC

Mr. Gamble was honored to be there. And Gwen Gamble and our team were more than glad to assist arranging Mr. Kenny Gamble’s appearance and award acceptance.

On behalf of Philadelphia International Records and Mr. Gamble, thank you and your organization for being a fan of the Sound of Philadelphia.

Chuck Gamble Gamble Huff Music Gamble Global Entertainment Media Group

Dear PRH

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We would like to give Dorette Rota Jackson and Dawn Rhoades a Standing Ovation for an amazing night.

A class act, for sure.

John Ferrara Ben Ferrara UNICO

Hello Dawn & Dorette My family and I want to thank you both for such a wonderful night. We also wanted to thank you for presenting Audra with the WishRock Award. It was such an amazing honor to be a part of this glamorous evening with many awesome people.

We really appreciated everything. We absolutely loved the article in your magazine. I have been sharing it with all my family and friends. You ladies are amazing in everything you do and represent. I hope we can all keep in touch and we will continue to follow your magazine. Thank you so much.

Joan, Pat & Audra McLaughlin

Dear Dawn & Dorette, Wanted to reach out to both of you and extend my gratitude for publishing my article.

My father framed it and gave it to me for Christmas -- I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. I truly appreciate it, thanks for that.

Happy Holidays!

Blase Biello

Dear PRH

I just love this magazine!

Rosemarie V. Weinberg

Jan

| Feb | March 2015

Dear Dorette & Dawn

I really enjoyed the latest issue of RowHome Magazine.

Congratulations on your 10th anniversary. I think I have all the issues from day one! They dress up my cocktail table. Congratulations to the Blue Sapphire award winners.

Excellent choices. What better than a trade unionist (John Dougherty), a South Philadelphia success story (Joe Volpe) and my favorite news anchor (Ukee Washington) to be selected for this incredible honor.

I am now bi-coastal, dividing my time between Napa California and North Wildwood. Napa is all about food and wine. Growing up in South Philly, I know what good food is and realize that I have been eating gourmet all my life. There is a community here much like South Philly.

People care about their neighbors.

It’s easy to share stories about growing up in South Philly, especially when I have RowHome Magazine to share with my Napa friends. I always look forward to going home, especially to North Wildwood. You know what they say. ‘You can take the girl out of South Philly but you can’t take South Philly out of the girl.’ Thank you for your continued contributions to the South Philly lifestyles and the great pictures and stories. They are everything I miss about South Philly. It’s like going home. You can’t get a good cheesesteak in Napa (or Scrapple!).

I am proud to have watched you both grow up and become so successful. Keep up the good work.

I look forward to the next issue.

Pat Scarcelli

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rowhome magazine

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PRH

life

T

U N I C O r a i s e s m o n e y for local charities photos by UNICO Philadelphia

he Philadelphia Chapter of UNICO, headed by brothers John and Ben Ferrara, distributed more than $20,000 in donations to numerous charities during its annual Awards Dinner.

Recipients included Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, St. Christopher’s Hospital, Autism Speaks, Gift of Life Donor Program, Citizens Crime Commission, Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Joseph’s University and Saint Anthony of Padua Regional Catholic School.

UNICO is a non-profit organization comprised of philanthropists, professionals and businessmen and businesswomen whose main objective is helping others. Members of UNICO live by the following words: “Service Above Self.” prh

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By Genesis HealthCare

gohomephilly.com

PowerBackRehabilitation.com

Hidden History

PRH life

Gems

5

Marialena Rago Spots You by Need to Know

Everyone knows about the Liberty Bell and Independence Mall, but there are so many historical sites in Philadelphia that people rarely get to see them.

If you ever want to explore your own backyard, here is what you are missing.

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1Washington Square

In Washington Square, there is a hidden monument. This memorial is the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier, built to commemorate the thousands of soldiers who died and were buried in mass graves in the park.

In 1954, the Washington Square Park Committee decided to erect a memorial after finding one of the mass graves. An eternal flame and a bronze statue of George Washington mark the site of the tomb.

2Elfreth’s Alley

Elfreth’s Alley is another hidden gem.

Also known as “Our Nation’s Oldest Residential Street,” it was named for blacksmith Jeremiah Elfreth and was home to artists and tradespeople.

Even though the street’s surroundings have been modernized, the cobblestone road, old-fashioned flower boxes and Colonial brickwork still remain. There is even a small museum dedicated to two dressmakers who used to live on the street.

3Fireman’s Hall

Right by Elfreth’s Alley is Fireman’s Hall, a museum about the art and science of firefighting over the last three centuries. The building is a restored 1920s firehouse with old-fashioned firetrucks, artifacts like old uniforms and mock-up recreation rooms. The museum is dedicated to “preserve the ongoing history of Philadelphia firefighting through the collection,

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preservation and presentation of related artifacts for the education of the public and to encourage sound fire prevention practices.”

4The Declaration House

Everyone knows Thomas Jefferson’s words in the Declaration of Independence, but you can also visit where he wrote that famous document. Located right near the Liberty Bell, the Declaration House was home to a bricklayer by the name of Jacob Graff. Jr. When Jefferson attended the second Continental Congress and wrote those celebrated words, he stayed at Graff’s home.

The house has artifacts, memorabilia and some reenactments.

5The Mario Lanza Institute

If you like movie and music history, then the Mario Lanza Institute is the perfect place for you to visit.

Located in the legend’s South Philly neighborhood (712 Montrose Street), the museum honors the late film and stage actor with photographs of him in his youth and costumes from his stage and film roles. The museum was founded to help provide scholarships for young classical voice students.

Now in its fourth location, the institute has grown with the help of donors.

Philadelphia is more than the Liberty Bell and Benjamin Franklin. It has deep history in the arts and sports.

These are only some of the hidden gems in the area, so explore the city you love and find out all it has to offer.

PRHthe menu

Big Nick’s Christmas Soup

Serves 2-3 people Can be doubled or tripled by adding more chicken broth. Can also omit escarole.

Ingredients ➜ 1 medium sized bunch ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

escarole, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces pound ground meat (mixture, beef pork & veal) 1 large clove garlic, chopped teaspoon salt Salt, to boil in water teaspoon pepper

➜ cup bread crumbs,

➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

slightly mixed with water (to give a wet sand texture) 1 ½ tablespoon Pecorino Romano cheese 1/3 cup Pecorino Romano cheese 1 tablespoon fresh, flat leaf parsley, chopped 1 egg

Directions ➜ 3 eggs, beaten ➜ Olive oil (enough to coat 2 pans)

➜ 1/3 cup flour ➜ 2 stalks celery, from the

whites to the leaves, chopped in small pieces ➜ 24 oz chicken broth (homemade or canned)

Boil escarole in salt and water until tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside. (When cooled, if needed, cut pieces even smaller). Mix together meat, garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, pepper, 1 ½ tablespoon cheese, 1 egg, parsley & bread crumbs. When thoroughly mixed, form into tiny meatballs (about the width of a dime) and fry in oil until cooked.

Set aside. Mix together flour, 1/3 cup cheese, 3 eggs and celery.

Place a ladle-sized spoonful of mixture in a heated, oiled pan and fry until golden on both sides. (Each should resemble a small pancake) Repeat process until batter is finished. Drain on paper towels. When cooled, cut into bite or crouton-sized pieces. Heat chicken broth until warm. Add meatballs, escarole and croutons. Cook until warm.

Philly

Courtesy of Sammy Brown

Courtesy of Stephanie Donatucci

Stephanie’s Bolognese Sauce Ingredients ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

cup extra virgin olive oil 1 onion 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 celery stalk, chopped

➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

1 carrot, chopped 1 pound ground chuck beef 1 can crushed tomatoes 1 handful fresh parsley and basil

Directions In a large pot, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat, add garlic and onions, sauté. Add celery and carrots, sauté about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, cook until brown, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until no pink is showing. Stir in the crushed tomatoes with parsley and basil. Cook about 1/2 hour to 1 hour on low heat.

Serve with wide Rigatoni and Pecorino Romano cheese.

Buon Appetito!

Grandma’s

Suey Ingredients ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

2 pounds ground beef, 80% lean 1 and a 1/2 boxes of Creamette elbow macaroni 28 ounces Hunts tomato sauce 16 ounce block of sharp cheddar cheese, cubed. You could

also substitute shredded sharp cheddar for your convenience.

Directions Boil elbow macaroni in salted water per directions on the box.

While the macaroni is boiling, cook the ground beef all the way through in a pan. Drain the grease and transfer back into the pan. Strain your macaroni and transfer back into the pot.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In your 3-3.5 quart casserole dish, layer the bottom with macaroni until covered. Add a layer of ground beef, then a layer of cheese and finally tomato sauce. No need to worry if the layers do not completely cover one another but make sure it’s just about there. Repeat another layer or two until you reach the top of the casserole dish. You should always be left with a final layer of sauce on top. Bake for 1 hour and let cool for at least 15 minutes.

rowhome magazine

| 17

Vincent Gangemi Funeral Home, Inc.

James L. Guercio Funeral Director

Ann Gangemi Secretary/Treasurer

Vincent C. Gangemi, Jr. Supervisor

Serving the Community Since 1937 Vincent Gangemi Sr., Founder Vincent C. Gangemi Jr., Supervisor

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1801 Packer Avenue / Philadelphia, PA 19145 P: 215.940.2211 / P: 215.334.1212 / F: 215.940.2210 Photo by Dan Uhl Photography

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PRHNEWS

&

POLITICS

Passyunk Bridge named in honor of

Robert Donatucci

by Maria Merlino photos by Maria Merlino

I

t was the first bundle-up afternoon of November but that didn’t stop the warmth that permeated the crowd of more than 60 family members, friends and city officials who gathered for the re-naming of the Passyunk Avenue Bridge to the Honorable Robert C. Donatucci Bridge.

Fr. Joseph Kelley began the ceremony to dedicate the structure at 3144 W. Passyunk Avenue to State Rep Robert Donatucci, who died in 2010 after more than 30 years of civil service. His widow, 185th State Rep Maria Donatucci, joined by children Dierdre and Tommy, led the group in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Lea Falcione, a junior at Girard Academic Music Program, performed a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem.

A number of speakers recounted funny stories, poignant moments and serious legislative decisions surrounding the tenure of Robert Donatucci, whose career in politics began in the 1970s. From PHA Administrative Assistant to committeeman for the 26th Ward 15th Division, and finally, member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Donatucci served his constituents as well as his community until he died at the age of 58.

“Bobby wasn’t one for pomp and circumstance,” said his wife, State Rep. Maria Donatucci. “He focused on getting a job done and he did it.”

She said that naming a bridge after him seemed like the perfect way to honor him.

“He loved collecting cars but he was bi-partisan and worked with the Republicans in the legislature and bridged so many different opinions.”

His brother, the Honorable Ronald Donatucci, Register of Wills, lightened the mood when he quipped to the media, “When traffic runs smooth, this is the Robert Donatucci Bridge. But if there is a traffic back-up, it’s the Passyunk Avenue Bridge.” prh

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ten2two is a local creative agency looking for local small business owners who are ready to refresh, rethink or refocus their brand to better connect with their audience.

INTO THE WOODS

P

hiladelphia RowHome Magazine attended the local screening of Disney’s Into The Woods along with invited guests of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office and the local arts and entertainment community.

The movie is a twisted, musical mosh of fairy tales reinterpreted for the modern age. Cinderella, Jack (and the Beanstalk), Lil’ Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel all come together for a humorous romp “in the woods.” An all-star cast is led by Golden Globe nominees Emily Blunt (Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical) and Meryl Streep (Best Performance by a Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture). prh

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rowhome magazine

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VOLUME _26 ISSUE 36_ 2015 gohomephilly.com

January | February | March 2015 1. R ichie DiCarlo hangs out with Chazz Palminteri at the Columbus Day Parade.

2. Nicky Luke hangs out with Sheena Parveen.

3. Southeast Catholic reunion at Popi’s.

4. C ongratulations HUP. We did it again! Top 10 in the nation! #1 in the region! Jade Rota & X-Ray Tech team Ashley Rutledge, Lauren Mckeon & Chris Lupica.

5. H UP X-Ray Techs are hangin’ out at a baby shower for Heather Nilan. Lauren McKeon, Tamara Palmer, Heather Nilan, Maureen lannutti, Jade Rota, Ashley Meurdler, Angela Roberto.

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HANGIN’OUT

6. A nthony Retallick & Anthony Grosso hang out with the Geator & Chazz Palminteri.

7. L ucy Mattia and her children Maria, Julia & Tommy enjoy a night on the Wildwood Boardwalk.

8. M onique Impagliazzo backstage at Jimmy Fallon for the debut of Barbra Streisand’s Partners.

9. A nthony Fanticola snaps a selfie with Governor Chris Christie.

10. Cookie’s Tavern salutes our Vets on Veterans Day. 11. Jade Rota, Dorette Rota Jackson, Brett Jackson & Carol Vassallo at the Millay Club Awards.

12. Dawn, Dorette & Carol stop for a selfie at Philly Pheud at SugarHouse Casino.

13. Angel Salerno & friends are hangin’ out.

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14. Register of Wills Ron Donatucci & Ophthalmologist-in-Chief of Wills Eye Hospital, Julia Haller, M.D. Photo by Maria Merlino 15. Nick DiDonato, Joey DiDonato, Joe Longo, Mark DiDonato & Nicky Longo celebrate the 22nd Annual Family Reunion “Quoit Tournament.” Congrats to Joey & Nicky Longo - 2014 Champs.

16. Jennifer Tini hangs out with Hoda Kotb on The Today Show.

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17. PRH’s Mark Casasanto & Pat Croce are ‘feeling great’ after a recent appearance at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

18. Bianca & Tom Nataloni of The Business are Hangin’ Out. 19. Steven Solipaca & The Bird Gang on “Support the Troops Night” on Monday Night Football at Lincoln Financial Field.

20. Go Eagles! Shannon & Peggy Wright are hangin’ out on the field before the Eagles/Panthers game.

21. Two & A-Half Men! Perry deMarco Sr., Perry deMarco Jr. & Perry deMarco III.

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22. Brian Stevenson hangs out with Vice President Joe Biden.

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by Dan Stevenson External Affairs Executive

T

hey say time flies when you’re having fun, and the past five years have certainly done just that.

I can’t believe that 2015 will mark SugarHouse’s five-year anniversary. It’s a big milestone to reach and one that makes us very proud. We opened in September 2010 as Philly’s casino and our indispensable SugarHouse team has spent the last five years bringing the city the best in entertainment. More than that, SugarHouse has woven itself into the fabric of this community and we couldn’t be more proud of our team’s continued commitment to the casino, each other and to the city of Philadelphia.

Personally, I have many fond memories of my first five years at SugarHouse, including riding in the SugarHouse doubledecker bus down Broad Street for the Mummers Parade and shaking hands with one of my favorite Eagles alums, Randall Cunningham.

As we embark on the next five years, 2015 will mark another important milestone for SugarHouse with our next grand opening. We will introduce new

restaurant brands, event space, free attached garage parking, more elbow room and additional waterfront patios. It’s our New Year’s resolution to bring a bigger, better SugarHouse to Philadelphia and we’ll be finishing off the year with a fresh look and feel.

Our indispensable SugarHouse team has spent the last five years bringing the city the best in entertainment.

Until then, be sure to visit us throughout 2015 for more of the great gaming experience for which we’ve come to be known.

Be sure to attend some of the many events we have planned throughout the year. From meet and greets with Philly sports legends to weekly live entertainment from the area’s favorite party bands and tournaments in the city’s first-ever poker room, there is always something exciting happening at SugarHouse Casino.

Cheers to a great five years! prh

REINVENT

THE WAY YOU PLAY POKER

GO ALL-IN RIGHT HERE IN PHILADELPHIA. SEE WHY EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT SUGARHOUSE CASINO’S NEW POKER ROOM! • 24 state-of-the-art poker tables •Open 24/7 with free self and valet parking •Free wi-fi •Wired for action with built-in charging stations at each seat •Ability to book a seat in advance with the free mobile app Bravo Poker Live • Smoke-free Poker Room with a smoking patio outside • Text to order food service available along with in-room beverage service Visit sugarhousecasino.com/casino/ philadelphiapokerroom or call 215.717.3883 for more information and tournaments!

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affair an

2014 To remember

Blue Sapphire Awards

It’s a night to celebrate accomplishment.

Our own. Each other’s. It’s An Affair to Remember. Philadelphia RowHome Magazine’s Annual Black Tie Business Networking Event & 2014 Blue Sapphire Awards Dinner. It’s a time to step out from behind our desks and counters and enjoy the company of friends and colleagues. People we recognize and those we have yet to meet. It takes a village, they say. And as you glance around the beautiful ballroom at Vie & see hundreds of smiling faces, you feel the pride. You recognize the commitment. And you appreciate the hard work and dedication that builds a city. Philadelphia RowHome Magazine is grateful to the members of our PRH Business Network for making this ninth annual event ”An Affair to Remember.”

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine would like to thank the following Sponsors ❙❙ A&P Kitchens ❙❙ Andreozzi Photography ❙❙ Appadooo ❙❙ Baldi Funeral Home ❙❙ Bianca Simone ❙❙ The Business ❙❙ CBS 3 ❙❙ Christian Carto ❙❙ Conestoga Bank ❙❙ Councilman James Kenney ❙❙ Councilman Mark Squilla ❙❙ CPR Restoration ❙❙ CyberSanTech ❙❙ The Cutting Point ❙❙ David M. Spitzberg, CPA ❙❙ D. Olivieri Jewelers ❙❙ DeFino Law Associates ❙❙ Frank DePasquale Law Offices ❙❙ Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) ❙❙ IBEW Local 98 ❙❙ Joe Volpe & Cescaphe Event Group ❙❙ Monti-Rago Funeral Home

Philly

❙❙ Moylan Chiropractic ❙❙ Pasquale & Anna Scioli ❙❙ Phil Kramer Photography & Remark Productions ❙❙ Philadelphia Federal Credit Union ❙❙ Philadelphia Training Academy ❙❙ Rudi’s Formal Wear ❙❙ South Philadelphia Business Association ❙❙ Spectrum Realty ❙❙ Ss John Neumann – Maria Goretti High School

❙❙ Standing Ovation Movie & Dupree Performing Arts

❙❙ Talk Radio / WPHT Philadelphia ❙❙ The String Theory Schools ❙❙ Stolfo Funeral Home ❙❙ SugarHouse Casino ❙❙ Synergetic Sound & Lighting ❙❙ Ten2Two Creative Solutions ❙❙ Tony Luke’s ❙❙ Valley Green Bank

Also

❙❙ Mark Casasanto, Master of Ceremonies ❙❙ Georgia Puhl, Awards Presenter (Gown by Bianca Simone) ❙❙ Dan Vanore & The Business, Entertainment ❙❙ The Cutting Point, Hair & Makeup ❙❙ Rudi’s Formal Wear, Tuxedos

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River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. o

The

Philadelphia

RowHome

Business

Network

Black Tie. Red Carpet.

Blue Sapphires! sponsored by Cescaphe Event Group

photos by Phil Kramer Andrew Andreozzi John McMullen

River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. o

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2014 Blue Sapphire Award Recipients John J. Dougherty

Business Manager, IBEW Local 98 Community Service Award Kenny Gamble

Songwriter / Producer Lifetime Music Achievement Award Joe Volpe. CEO

Cescaphe Event Group Local Business Success Story Award Ukee Washington News Anchor, CBS 3 Media Award

2014 Guest Presenters Pat Ciarrocchi, 2012 Blue Sapphire Award Bunny Sigler, 2010 Blue Sapphire Award Mike Neill, 2005 Blue Sapphire Award Sara Canuso, Women That Influence

WISHROCK AWARDS

Dream If I teach my children to dream they will learn to reach higher than what their eyes can see For it is not how much we have that defines us But how much we give to the generations that follow so they will remember us Not as someone who used to be But as one who is Forevermore Like the moon - Dorette

affair

P h i l a d e l p h i a R o w H o m e P R ESEN T S

an

To remember

2014 Black Tie Business Networking Gala

sponsored by Cescaphe Event Group rowhome magazine

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Anything is possible if you believe in yourself Philadelphia RowHome Magazine congratulates the recipients of its 2014 WishRock Award, presented annually to “young dreamers whose passion to succeed has inspired a new generation of believers.�

2014 WishRock Award Recipients sponsored by Standing Ovation Movie & Dupree Performing Arts Ricky Baccare singer The String Theory Schools Lea Davis singer / performer Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) Audra McLaughlin singer / songwriter Delco Let There Be Rock School & The Voice S6 #TEAMBLAKE Christian Carto 2014 Golden Gloves Champion St. Augustine Prep

2014 WishRock Award Presenters Sal Dupree Dupree Performing Arts, 2012 Blue Sapphire Award Kitten Hayward Welterweight/Middleweight Boxing Champion, PA Boxing Hall of Fame & PA Sports Hall of Fame

River to River. One Neighborhood.

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PRHSalute to Service

The Business Band of Gold

I

by Bob Wagner

s it really 27 years since local band The Business first plugged its amp into the Philly music scene?

Longevity certainly has its place but rarely is it found in the local entertainment field.

As they continue rocking into their third decade, the band can look back at a rewarding history that all started with a few friends who wanted to play good music.

South Philadelphia Review Reader’s Choice Award Best Band 10-time winner

PHL 17 - Philly Hot List – Best Wedding Band 2014 & the only band to place in the Top 5 for the past eight years Musical Directors for the 1991 ABC TV Network Special – A Tale of Two Brides – watched by more than 10 million households In 1993, the band wrote and recorded the official fight song for the National League Champion Philadelphia Phillies. Those Phillies Thrill Me was also selected one of the best songs of 1993 by Out On The Town Magazine.

The year 1993 also gave the group a chance to compete on the nationally syndicated television series, Star Search.

The Business aced more than 700 local acts to make its way onto the stage and into the homes of millions of viewers.

PRH recently sat down with Dan Vanore, The Business’ leader & an original member, to discuss his band’s rich tradition and still vibrant career.

PRH: What are you most proud of?

DV: Our longevity. We have managed to stay together all of these years with minimal personnel changes. We were originally a seven-piece band and four of us are still going strong today. Plus, this band is like a family. Even our old members come back and sit in at least once a year.

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1993. The Business at Stadium Hol Inn. Greg C iday arrozza, Andrew Car rozza, Jimmy McC loskey, Bob Jackso n, Tom Nataloni, D an Vanore, Manny Cap izzi.

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gohomephilly.com

PRH: How have you managed to adapt to the changing musical styles over the years?

DV: We have always prided ourselves on our ability to play any style of music the crowd wants to hear.

It’s all about what they want. We can cover Big Band to Hip-Hop. Disco to Doo-Wop and everything on the Top 40 at any given time.

PRH: Who are your current members?

DV: Tom Nataloni, lead vocals and trumpet; Andrew Carrozza, sax and vocals, Manny Capizzi on bass; Erica Gagliardi, lead vocals; Greg D’Agostino, guitar; Barry McCommon, trombone; Sean Finn; keyboards; Steve Tabilio, drums; Lea Davis, lead vocals; Jimmy Boyle, trumpet and myself on lead vocals. In addition, we have had the same sound engineers for most of our career. Charlie Sateriale and Tom Marchesani.

PRH: Any exciting plans for 2015?

DV: We plan on continuing to do what we do best; entertaining the audience in any type of environment.

Whether it’s weddings, clubs, casinos or corporate gigs, we have the material and the personnel to make the event a success. prh

Q &A Q) Music Mentors A) For me, it is first and foremost Elvis Presley Q) How did the band get together?

A few of us played together in the past but when the original 7 of us got together, it was magic.

Q) What’s your theme or style?

A) We pride ourselves on our ability to play any style so our theme is versatility.

Q) Who do you compare your sound to?

A) No one in particular but a bit of everyone. We are unique.

Q) What is your ultimate goal?

A) To keep entertaining for another 27 years! (laughs) Seriously, to keep doing what we love and to make our audiences happy.

Q) What neighborhood did you grow up in?

A) This is a South Philly band! (laughs) Q) Favorite thing about Philly?

A) The rich musical history.

PRHthe menu

Wine Know

by Vincent R. Novello Jr.

Getting Started

F

“Never save your good wine for tomorrow!” or the last 20 years, I have attempted a variety of winemaking methods. In 1998, my close friend, neighbor and winemaking partner Paul Policarpo and I got involved with the annual Vendemmia wine competition. We were fortunate to be taken under the wing of John Patane, who himself is well versed in all aspects of winemaking. Paul and I have been making award-winning wines together ever since.

Hopefully, I can do the same for you. If you are ready to make your own wine, follow my stepby-step method right here on the pages of RowHome Magazine. If you are ready to take part in a tradition that transcends generations of families both near and far, there’s no time like the present.

Winemaking. Wine tasting. Wine selections.

It’s everything you need to know.

Winemaking. Getting Started

Winetasting. Wine Selections

❚❙❘ Get the Kit. For first-time winemakers, I recommend purchasing a wine kit.

A wine kit consists of a fermentation bucket, 6-gallon glass Carboy, an air lock, syphoning hose, hydrometer, corker, sanitizer, brush, bottle filler, corks and corker. These are all the tools you will need for your winemaking journey.

❚❙❘ Sparkling Mionetto – Organic Prosecco. $15

❚❙❘ Find the right spot. Find an area in your home where the temperature is consistently between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature is a key factor in preventing wine spoilage. An indoor thermometer (under $10) placed in this area is a simple way to monitor and make sure the climate of the winemaking area does not fluctuate more than 10 degrees. This will prepare you for your actual winemaking which will take place in late August / early September, when you will be able to purchase your grape/juice. ❚❙❘ Make friends. Remember, surrounding yourself with other winemakers can prove to be a great and fun way to start your new hobby.

Coming Next Issue: Where to purchase Wine Kits at discounted prices Spring wine selections and pairings

❚❙❘ White Wines 2013 Cascina Chicco Roero Arneis. $14 (originally $23) 2013 Fiano Di Avellino. $13 (originally $22) 2013 New Zealand “Nobilo” Sauvignon Blank. $10 Perfect Host/Hostess Gift 2012 Conundrum white blend. $19 Great paired with Flounder Francaise or your favorite Quiche Gift Suggestion Kistler Le Noisette 2012 Chardonnay. $58 ❚❙❘ Red Wines 2013 “Gas Con” Malbec – Argentina. $14 2013 Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano D’Abruzzo. $14 2011 Solane Santi Valpolicella Ripasso – Italy. $15 Perfect Host/Hostess Gift 2010 Palazzo Della Torre – Allegrini. $20 Great paired with Stuffed Breast of Veal (Panzetta) or your favorite Bolognese sauce Gift Suggestion 2011 “Christom” Pinot Noir –Williamette Valley, Oregon or 2011 Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon – Sonoma County. Both at $45 ❚❙❘ Prefer a lighter, sweeter wine?

You can find reasonably priced Riesling or Moscato wines at your favorite wine store.

Vincent Novello has been making his own wine since 1997 and has competed in and judged the annual Vendemmia. His 2008 Brunello took first and second place in the competition. Today, Novello serves as the Vendemmia’s contest director.

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PRHBUSINESS

Stolfo Funeral Home

Four Generations of Service We are here to serve your every need at your time of need.

S

by Santina Pescatore

tolfo Funeral Home has kept true to this promise for more than 70 years. Charles Stolfo Sr. opened his funeral parlor business in 1939. Back when “wakes” were held in the homes of the deceased. In 1940, Charles’ son, Charles Stolfo Jr., joined the family business. But a year later, World War II broke out and the younger Stolfo enlisted in the army and served four years.

After the war, he returned to the neighborhood and re-joined his father at the Funeral Home.

As business grew, the family moved to a permanent location at 2536 S. Broad Street. Within a decade, they expanded the business to an adjacent property at 2538 S. Broad Street, as well.

Now in its fourth generation, the family-owned Stolfo Funeral Home has become a trusted source of solace for generations of families over the past 70 years. Paul Stolfo, Charles Jr.’s son, joined the business in 1974 and currently serves as its Director.

Paul Stolfo graduated from the American Academy McAllister Institute in 1974 with a degree in funeral service and obtained his license to become the third generation to join the Stolfo Funeral Home.

Marianne, one of Paul’s three daughters, plans to take her place alongside her father in February 2015, making her the fourth generation to become a licensed funeral director. She even attended

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“Whatever

they want us to do, we will do.We know how difficult it is to say goodbye to someone you love.”

gohomephilly.com

American Academy McAllister, her father’s alma mater. She received her license after apprenticing with her father just a few months after the death of her grandfather Charles Jr. in 2013.

For the Stolfo family, the most important aspect of their business is treating customers and the deceased like family. Paul and his family live above the South Broad Street Funeral Home and are available to customers in their time of need – day or night.

“When you call, I’m going to answer the phone,” Paul Stolfo assures.

He says the needs of the family are foremost during this grieving process. It is his responsibility to take some of the burden off their shoulders. Arranging the Church service and the burial.

Placing the Obituary. Providing the bereaved family with a memorial service that meets their needs and respects their wishes.

Over the years, families have consistently placed their loved ones in the care of the Stolfo Funeral Home because they trust in their profes-

sionalism. They recognize the care and are grateful for the support.

The Stolfo family feels the same way about their neighborhood.

“We’ve gotten to know families on a personal basis. We can relate to them. We want them to feel comfortable here,” Paul explains.

He knows how difficult losing a loved one can be for the families who contact him. He wants to make the process as seamless as possible for them. “Whatever they want us to do, we will do.

We know how difficult it is to say goodbye to someone you love.”

To ensure that every funeral meets the family’s expectations, Paul Stolfo said he attends almost every funeral. Grieving the loss of a loved one is overwhelming enough. His clients rely on him to oversee the details.

After 70 years and four generations of family service, the Stolfo Funeral Home continues its commitment to a community whose trust they have earned. So the memories live on. prh Stolfo Funeral Home is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network

PRH is Minding your Business!

IATSE Ballroom by Anthony’s Caterers

hosts Networking Night

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine recently held its Minding Your Business networking night at IATSE Ballroom by Anthony’s Caterers. Members of the PRH Business Network talked shop and sampled an extravagant array of appetizers and entrees prepared by Anthony’s Caterers, our host for the evening.

In addition to exchanging business cards, members got to brush up on the latest trends in mobile marketing during a presentation by Go Mobile Philly! Now that more than 1.4 billion people have cellphones, businesses have new and exciting ways to reach clients and grow their bottom lines.

PRH and Go Mobile Philly are joining forces to help our advertisers reach their customers on the go or around the table. With more than 200,000 loyal RowHome Readers in the network, PRH is minding your business!

Since its launch in 2004, Philadelphia RowHome Magazine has encouraged readers and clients to “Go Home Philly. Stop & Shop at our Local Spots.” That rally call has enabled hundreds of businesses throughout the region to successfully promote and advertise through PRH and its growing Business Network. It also has created a solid B2B unified network of advertisers who support each other and contribute to successful business goals.

Download Philadelphia RowHome Magazine’s free APP for details of upcoming networking nights.

Philly

About IATSE Ballroom

a

by Anthony’s Caterers

s you walk through the bright marquee entrance to IATSE Ballroom, you are draped in the warm theatrical lighting of this chic Philadelphia venue.

With more than 30 years in the restaurant and banquet industry, Anthony’s Caterers brings a modern approach to traditional Italian recipes.

What do you get when you marry authentic cuisine with a stellar presentation? An exciting event with rousing results.

Wedding Receptions • Corporate Events & Training • Black Tie Affairs • Fundraisers • Cabaret / Dinner Theater • Family Reunions • Funeral Luncheons • Sports Banquets / Award Ceremonies • Class Reunions • Bar /Bat Mitzvahs

Lights. Camera. Mangia!

Please call 267.861.0391 or email info@iatseballroom.com to schedule a tour of the facility.

IATSE Ballroom by Anthony’s Caterers is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network

photos by Andrew Andreozzi rowhome magazine

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PRHBUSINESS

Marketing Solutions for

I

Small Business Success

t’s 7 a.m. and your alarm goes off. Instead of reaching for a clock, you pick up your cell phone and swipe the screen to silence the mobile device. As you head to the bathroom and get dressed for the day, you check email, update your Facebook status and send a text to your friend who left a message the night before.

If this is your routine, it’s not uncommon.

According to emarketer.com, smartphone users worldwide will total 1.75 billion in 2014 and that number is growing. The average American spends almost What is it?

Go Mobile Philly marketing is a simple solution to assist business owners in gaining new clients and building customer loyalty using mobile text marketing and social media. Boost your marketing campaign and increase your sales revenue. Blast out coupons, deals, discounts and more to all mobile phones at once.

two hours per day on a mobile device. There’s no doubt that mobile technology has changed the way we live, shop, travel and interact with one another.

Ultimately, this technological advance has changed the way businesses market products and services to consumers. Long gone are the days when businesses relied solely on newspaper advertisements and word-of-mouth referrals to influence customers.

During our recent Customer Appreciation Celebration, PRH, in partnership with Sure Messenger Solutions, launched the GO PHILLY MOBILE Marketing Program to support the business community.

How Does It Work?

With the Go Mobile Philly marketing channel, simply select a keyword unique to your service or business and promote new or current marketing materials. Then send a branded mobile marketing message instantly to all of your customers at one time. Try it yourself. Text PRHMag to 71441.

What are the results?

Go Mobile Philly marketing enables businesses to create low-cost campaigns more quickly, reach customers faster, receive results instantly and increase revenue as compared to other marketing channels.

To learn more about the Go Philly Mobile Marketing program, call 267.422.1222.

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gohomephilly.com

“We listen to

our customers and recognize that our clients need complementary services to promote their businesses. We are providing a solution that will enable them to continue to be successful with their marketing efforts,” says Dawn Rhoades, PRH Publisher.

A Taste For Tradition

sh” “Deli e, Voted talian Far I g n r n i e t h a t Sou Zagat R 2013

700 Haddon Avenue Collingswood, NJ 08108 Call 856-854-2156 for reservations www.kitconcafe.com

Monday: Closed.

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Tuesday – Thursday: 4PM – 9:30PM

Friday: 4PM – 10:00PM

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1968, 1973,

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Sunday: 12AM – 9PM

  PRHthe menu

Food.

Family.

Traditions.

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gohomephilly.com

M

emories define us. As families. As neighbors. As people who care about each other and the traditions that bind us.

Traditions we learned from growing up in this place we call Philly. Generations of families and friends who went to the same schools, dances, corner stores.

We like pizza and parades. We make our own wine. And beer. And we have each other’s backs.

We cook and we bake and we share because we watched in wonder. And repeated what we learned.

And now we pass those memories on to our children. A circle of life that we celebrate. Rituals we remember from the days we left behind. Recipes that sustain and comfort.

Testaments to the loved ones who went before us. Leaving us to mimic and to honor.

A priceless gift that is ours to pay forward.

We cherish our traditions. And the loved ones we miss. The loved ones we honor every day. And the memories that remind us to never forget.

F

Pie High

by Maria Merlino

or the most part, a 100-year-old recipe – even a three-ingredient one – goes through various adaptations over the years. “Flours back then were more rustic,” begins Mike Giammarino, owner of Gennaro’s Tomato Pie. “The milling process was stoneground. There was no breaking down of the courser grains. It was a type of flour dirtied with husks. The science was not quite where it is today.”

Giammarino said he worked with mills to reproduce the antique flour recipe but was disappointed with the outcome. “The flour couldn’t make the standard. Our palates have changed over the years,” he explains. “They’ve been refined.

Most people wouldn’t like an exact duplication recipe.

But we did develop a flour that meets our standards.”

Giammarino, whose knowledge of pizza puts him in the historian category, has a relations record with the Gennaro Lombardi family. “My father worked with the family and is friends with the grandson, also named Gennaro Lombardi,” he says. “When the Lombardis wanted to take a backseat to the business in the 1990’s, my father took over.”

Growing up, Giammarino spent a lot of time in the kitchen with his grandfather. He remembers the stories of the Lombardi family in the early 1900’s.

How Gennaro took a Neapolitan snack and turned it into a family meal.

Immigrants who lived in nearby tenements or worked in local factories lined up for the lunchtime delicacy. One penny bought a thin-crusted pie topped with tomato gravy.

If you couldn’t afford a whole pie, Gennaro was happy to sell pieces of it to his customers.

“Toppings like anchovy and cheese came a little later,” Giammarino says. “The ends and rinds of the hard cheeses were ground up and used. Probably with the waxy coating still on!”

Giammarino says he learned the value of consistency at a very young age. “My favorite toy was a chemistry set,” he laughs.

“I can come up with a system that marries technology with the organics. By following this system, a consistent product can be duplicated,” he says matter-offactly. He applies this same system at his restaurant.

The result? Consistency. “We only use premium ingredients and they speak for themselves. There is no greasy residue. The crust is crispy and well done.”

Tucked away on the corner of Chadwick & Jackson Streets (1429 Jackson), Gennaro’s Tomato Pie is a welcomed addition to the deep-in-the-heart-ofSouth Philly locale.

“I wanted to give our customers the experience of a day in 1940s New York,” he says, reminiscing the stories his grandfather shared.

Family photos and collectibles from his personal archives add to the ambiance of this corner café.

From the rich wood hues to the black & white tile floor to the Big Band soundtrack, Gennaro’s is a walk back in time. Even the formica tabletops add to the authentic dining experience. Salads. Antipasto.

Tomato Pies. Calzones. Homemade desserts. This BYOB is a local gem.

Giammarino himself designed the ovens to mimic the coal-burning ovens of yore. “I can streamline things and make everything run like a Swiss watch,” he smiles. “If you order for pick-up, we tell you what time to arrive,” he adds. And rest assured. Your pizza will be ready. “There are time slots.”

Unlike traditional pizza, tomato pies consist of thin, crisp dough topped with sauce. Due to the high temperatures of the original coal ovens used to bake the pies, cheese is placed beneath the sauce to keep it from burning.

Giammarino’s reputation for crusted perfection follows him from his last pizzeria on 18th & Rittenhouse Square called Lombardi’s. He says 1998 was the year of the pizza and his had a great reputation. He enjoyed a good 10-year run but moved when developers bought the block and he had to close.

“I went back to New York and helped my parents revitalize their Lombardi’s,” he said. “People would come up from Philadelphia to get the pizza.”

He wanted to re-open in Philadelphia but Center City rents were at an all-time high. That’s when he came up with the concept – Gennaro’s Tomato Pie. “It’s what Gennaro Lombardi would have done during WWII.” To add even more authenticity to his neighborhood spot, Giammarino serves desserts he makes from both his grandmothers’ family recipes. Grandma Grace’s Chocolate Cream Sponge Cake (served with fresh chocolate cream). And Grandma Rose’s Pineapple Upside Down (served with fresh cream).

Currently, Michael Giammarino is working on another concept restaurant on East Passyunk Avenue. Family-friendly Itailian, he calls it. With a different type of pizza that he customized for delivery.

“People want to be in the know. People want to talk about pizza and bring a friend. I want to remind them of their ancestors,” Giammarino says. “People tend to forget the past. But through food and atmosphere, it can be re-created.”

Gennaro’s Tomato Pie is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network www.GennarosTomatoPie.com prh

1429 Jackson Street Philadelphia PA 19145 Howard 3 - 5070 215-463-5070 Hours: Closed Monday & Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 5-10 pm Friday & Saturday 5-11 pm

BYOB

www.GennarosTomaTopie.com

photo by Elisa Maria

TNT

ENTERTAINMENT with DJ

Tommy Pipino

Weddings Serenades Graduations Block Parties Birthdays 856.325.8521 tpipino@yahoo.com rowhome magazine

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PRH THE MENU

A Dining Car named “Desire” by John Nacchio

I 40

n A Streetcar Named Desire (1947), the cinematic moment when Marlon Brando howls “STELLAaaaa!” from the street to his wife evokes a cultural touchstone. Something in that root emotion echoes inside of me – passionately yearning one glorious name – “DINERrrrr.” Yes. I love a Diner!

Sitting at the counter was a carefree part of growing

| rowhome magazine

up and it became an extended family experience. For me, it was The Melrose, The Penrose and The Oregon Diner. And the simpler corner luncheonettes with individual counter stools like George’s, Joe & Lena’s, Deleo’s and Millie’s. Each offered quick menus, ice cream sundaes and the entertainment of a pinball machine. Placing a quarter on the glass top – staking claim to be the next player up – was like standing in line for the next “IPhone.” It

gohomephilly.com

was an episode of “I Love Lucy” when the Ricardo and Mertz families gave up show business for a Diner. That got me thinking.

Born in the USA, the Diner and the Luncheonette are considered American – continually evolving for more than 100 years – and yes, still changing.

It most likely started with a lunch wagon for factory workers in the 1800s. Plop down a long plank, add stools and the image takes hold. America was growing rap-

idly with the Railroad. Take a Railroad “Dining Car” or angle two together for a quick, readymade pre-fab building that could be set down at any location. The architecture became one influence for the iconic stainlesssteel look and feel.

Diner emotion loudly echoed in the recent movie Silver Linings Playbook. A scene that figures prominently in the film focuses on a first “non-date” between the characters of Bradley Cooper

HUNGRY YET? Hoagies Salads Wraps Specialty Sandwiches and much MORE!

and Jennifer Lawrence. The scene erupts at the Llanerch Diner in Upper Darby, just outside the city. Many of us may recall nondate moments throughout our teens and twenties taking place at Diners. Maybe ours had a little less drama than the movie but those moments all point to that fact that life happens at a Diner.

It is a place of gatherings, meeting with friends, brief reunions, birthday celebrations and special occasions. Back in the day, they were places to unwind after hours of “clubbing” at Disco Clubs. Diners offered a good variety, reasonable prices and breakfast any time of the day. But a Diner is not always about the food served.

‘Hey Honey, more coffee?’ servers – traditionally women – do more than serve food. They are part psychiatrist, part grandmother, part friend. They serve every walk of American life. From the retired and the widowed to the wounded and the lonely, the classic diner wait staff is an icon of American culture.

As a kid, a perfect place to go without a parent was the Five & Dime lunch counters. My favorite spots were Woolworth’s on Broad & Snyder and 13th & Chestnut, and other lunch counters like S. H. Kress, H.L. Green, W.T. Grant and McCrory’s. The Menu was perfect with choices like a grilled cheese, tuna melt and the ice cream soda fountain. The special ice-cream gimmick was a Houseboat with the works – a banana split made with three generous dips of vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream between a sliced banana topped with crushed cherries, pineapples, chocolate syrup, whipped cream and a bright red cherry on top. The price? It was the thrill of chance – a lottery determined by picking and popping a balloon that hung on a string above the counter. Each balloon contained a tiny piece of paper with prices ranging from a penny to 25 cents. As crazy as it sounds, even a quarter wasn’t much to pay for more ice cream than you could possibly finish. A kid’s budget and a kid’s dream!

Diners like the Mayfair or the Trolley Car in the Northeast, and the Philly Diner in NJ, brought the Wildwood, Vegas and Marvis Diners back to life on the shore town’s nostalgic strip. An experience different from the chain restaurants, Diners provide us with a love affair that never ends.

Many diners in the United States, especially in New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, are owned or operated by Greek Americans. It is true that Greeks became a visible presence in the diner and coffee shop business in the late 1950s after several waves of immigration. They congregated largely on the East Coast, where the food service industry provided an easy economic foothold for many immigrants. As their businesses grew, they sent word of opportunity back home, encouraging others to come to America.

Shout out “DINERrrrr.” I am crazy in Love with you!

Dedicated to the memory of Panagiotis “Pete” Dovas (2014 Penrose Diner owner and management), who looked upon America as the Promised Land and entered Diner history with a true feel-at-home signature. prh

MI-PALS Featuring

Cold Cuts

Deli & Caterer

Serving the entire Tri-State area 2300 S. 16th Street

We specialize in Pharmaceutical and Corporate Catering

Including delivery and set up

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Mi_Pals-2009.indd 1

11/4/09 4:16:46 PM

The three things I love about Philadelphia.

Local Community Sports Teams Food While you may like other local spots or food, there is one thing we can both agree on: we love this community.

So give me a call at (215)468-4116, or stop by my office on 1636 South Front Street. I can help protect the things you care about,, and just maybe, become one of your favorite places to visit.

John R Ferullo

Ferullo Insurance Agencies LLC

Phone: (215)468-4116 ferullj@nationwide.com www.ferulloinsurance.com Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, Ohio. Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Nationwide Insurance, the Nationwide framework and Nationwide is On Your Side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2014 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

All rights reserved. NPR-0708AO (02/14)

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PRHthe menu

Coffee &

BANQUET ROOM • CATERING happy hour • live entertainment sports & more

Cake

for coupons & special offers login with your facebook at www.flatironphilly.com

by Camille DeCaro

26 east oregon ave

philadelphia, pa 19148 across from tony luke's

215.465.1901

I

f you ask anyone over the age of 40 what comes to mind when you mention coffee and cake, it most likely brings back many memories. The scratch-made pineapple upside-down cakes, the matching sugar and creamer, the tablecloths and the unannounced, unscheduled guests.

The doorbell rang and in walked Uncle John and Aunt Gloria. “We are here for coffee and cake,” they would yell from the warm vestibule. The table was set within 10 minutes and the memories began. Everyone crammed around the table if you were lucky enough to get a seat. Otherwise, standing room only would have to do. With your coffee came the chatter. Sometimes at very high volume.

In today’s world, the thought of someone dropping by unannounced might be considered an intrusion. If the doorbell rings, it better be UPS, FedEx or the Fire Department.

There is a recent trend in local coffee houses catering to the need for raw, social interaction. Eye-to-eye, belly-to-belly, faceto-face people connecting over a cup of hot java.

So, the next time you get a text, e-blast or tweet about what’s going on at your neighborhood coffee shop, show up! Bring the whole family or gather a group of friends. Support local businesses. A night of trivia games, teen karaoke, poetry, music or open mic are reason enough to get up and go.

Let’s get to know what gathering with friends and family really feels like and start to make memories that will last longer than SNAPCHAT. Camille DeCaro/Butterflychef

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gohomephilly.com

My Lunch with

i

Georges Perrier

by Maria Merlino

was ecstatic when I spotted Philadelphia’s most famous chef, Georges Perrier, at the Vendemmia last October. He was kicking back, smoking a cigar. Content. A few friends surrounded him and a pretty young lady leaned on his shoulder. I walked up to him and gushed, ‘Georges Perrier! May I take your photo?’ That got us talking about the event. ‘How do you like the Vendemmia?’ I started. “Oh very much!” he exclaimed. “There is nothing like this in France.”

‘Is this your first time, here?’ I continued. “Yes. I was invited by the owner of Fond.” Of course I had to know. ‘How do you like our homemade wines?’ A smile appeared on his face. “The wine is very good. It’s the right wine for the right time.

Timing is everything.”

We made plans to meet for lunch at The Sansom Street Oyster House. I was early. He was late. Looking out the window, I watched a figure approach wearing a charcoal topcoat and a gray fedora. A film noir star, I thought to myself. Everyone at the Oyster House knew

Georges. We sat at the bar and he ordered for both of us. Manhattan Clam Chowder, a half-dozen little necks and a half-dozen oysters. The place is crowded.

“I come here every day,” he confesses. As far as his retirement from the restaurant business, “I hate it.” But grass doesn’t grow under Perrier’s feet. He snagged a consulting job with a restaurant/casino owner in Macau, just off the Southern coast of China. For a good part of January 2015, he will be there.

Perrier is excited about a new grandchild on the way. And he loves taking walks with Isabelle, a Bichon Frise.

He opened up to me about the sadness in his life. He misses his beloved brother Bernard, who “died too young.” And he misses his mother who died only a few years ago at the age of 103.

He shares a story of his childhood. “During WWII, she suffered. My mother, she was a Jew and the Nazis were rounding up Jews.” His father, a jeweler, took his family to a house in the forest where they hid. “It was very difficult times,” he

remembers. “I miss my mother very much and my brother, so much.”

French cuisine was a twinkle in Philadelphia’s eye when Perrier arrived in Philadelphia in the mid-Sixties. When it comes to his skills as a saucier, Perrier is a genius. A natural food scientist. “I don’t make béchamel or use any cream.

I do stock reductions,” Perrier explains. “I know when the molecules are right.”

Lunch was delicious. Before I left, I had one last question. What advice do you have for the home cook? “Use the recipes of your mother and grandmother. You know them. Perfect them.” prh

Philly

Galette de Crabe

{Crab Cakes}

Ingredients ➜1 bunch scallions ➜ 1 teaspoon butter ➜ 1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat ➜ 14 ounces large shrimp, peeled and deveined ➜ 2 eggs

➜1 pint heavy cream ➜ 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard ➜ 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce ➜ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions Cross cut the green part of the scallion 1/8-inch thick and sweat in 1 teaspoon butter. Mix together with picked crabmeat. Set aside. Put shrimp in very cold bowl of food processor. Process on high speed for 1 minute. Add eggs and process on high speed until mixture is smooth and shiny (approximately 2 minutes). Keep shrimp mixture in bowl and put into freezer to re-chill. Return bowl to machine

and slowly add heavy cream while machine is running. Scrape sides of bowl. Process one more time to make sure the cream is incorporated. Add mustard, hot pepper sauce, Worcestershire to the mousse, and then fold into crabmeat and scallions.

To Cook: Saute 1/2 cup portions in oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook approximately 2 minutes on each side. Makes 10 crab cakes.

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PRHthe menu Courtesy of Cannuli’s Sausage

Nonna Jenny’s Sausage Sauce Ingredients large cans crushed tomatoes 2 2-3 fresh basil leaves teaspoon sugar (optional) 1 tablespoon olive oil medium onion, peeled and chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled and chopped 1 lb. Cannuli’s hot or sweet sausage (removed from the casing) ➜ cup sherry or red wine (optional) ➜ Salt & pepper to taste ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

Directions

SEE THIS AD? Of course you do. And so do thousands of readers throughout the region and across the country.

Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming back.

PRH Advertisers get results.

Courtesy of Bernadette Nolan

Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

Directions In a 3-quart saucepan, heat all ingredients to boiling over high heat.

Reduce heat to medium and cook, uncovered, until most cranberries pop and mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon into serving bowl, cover and refrigerate until well chilled, about 3 hours or up to 4 days.

Don’t let the prunes scare you off. You barely taste them.

215.462.9777 Info@gohomephilly.com

| rowhome magazine

Philly

➜ ( 1) 12 ounce bag of fresh cranberries (3 cups), rinsed ➜ 1/2 cup of raspberry jam ➜ 1 cup prunes, pitted & chopped ➜ 1/4 cup sugar ➜ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar ➜ 2/3 cup water ➜ 1/4 teaspoon salt ➜ 1 stick (3 inches long) cinnamon

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44

In a large saucepan, place the tomatoes, basil and sugar and begin to simmer over medium heat. In a frying pan, sauté the onion and garlic in the olive oil. Pour into the simmering tomato sauce. Fry the sausage until brown and add into the tomato sauce (you may want to drain any fat that renders in the frying pan during cooking). Pour the sherry or red wine into the frying pan and stir to loosen any of the delicious juices still in the pan and add to the tomato sauce. Simmer uncovered at least 1½ hours, stirring occasionally. Serve over cooked shell pasta or spaghetti.

gohomephilly.com

Start

Wining this Winter

by Kiera Missanelli

T

ake a peak outside your frosted window. There’s snow on the ground, ice on the streets and you are thinking of ways to stay warm. Well, what could be better than a glass (or bottle) of local and delicious wine to warm you up on these cold winter nights? Luckily, our prolific Pennsylvania soils are home to some impressive wineries and are close enough to home that you won’t freeze in what can feel like our never-ending winter.

Lehigh Valley Wine Trail

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is home to nine family-owned vineyards and wineries and is just an hour-and-a-half drive from Philadelphia. The wineries and vineyards include Amoré Winery, Big Creek Vineyard, Blue Mountain Vineyards & Cellars, Ltd., Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, Franklin Hill Vineyards, Galen Glen Winery, Pinnacle Ridge Winery, Tolino Vineyards and Vynecrest Vineyards & Winery. An easy escape for wine lovers, the Lehigh Valley Wine trail is committed to producing a quality experience and quality wines. From wine-tasting classes to tours and food pairings, the Lehigh Valley Wine trail does it all with a picturesque view. This March, the trail is offering a $35 passport, which gives each guest access to special events and wine-and-food pairings with local chefs and purveyors every Saturday and Sunday in March. lehighvalleywinetrail.com

Brandywine Valley Wine Trail

An even closer option is the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail, which is home to five wineries and vineyards where wine-tasting season never ends. They include Black Walnut Winery, Boderland Vineyard, Kreutz Creek Vineyards, Paradox Vineyard and

Penns Woods Winery. During select weekends in February, the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail hosts wine and chocolate tastings as well as other romantic events for the season. Come March, each weekend features tastings at each winery where you can purchase a passport and visit them all. Whether it is a visit to get cozy with your significant other, or a group outing, the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail offers a true Pennsylvania wine experience. brandywinetrail.com

Lovers and Tarot Card Reading and Wine Tasting, just to name a few. To find out exact dates and make reservations, visit crossingvineyards.com. For a winery with a more local feel, the New Hope Winery is close to downtown and also Peddler’s Village.

Home to an intimate 250-seat concert venue, New Hope Winery hosts live music most weekends as well as chef-prepared foods.

No matter which winery you try, you are sure to enjoy delectable wines and a tranquil getaway. buckscountywinetrail.com

Bucks County Wine Trail

At the Bucks Country Wine Trail, bop around to nine different vineyards and wineries, located less than an hour away from home. The wineries and vineyards include Buckingham Valley Vineyards, Crossing Vineyards and Winery, New Hope Winery, Peace Valley Winery, Rose Bank Winery, Rushland Ridge Vineyards, Sand Castle Winery, Wycombe Vineyards and Unami Ridge Winery. The wineries, located in the gentle rolling hills of Bucks County, are both welcoming and scenic and offer great local wine. Crossing Vineyards, the most well-known and voted Best Winery in Bucks for four years in a row, offers many events this winter season. A Dummies Guide to Wine Tasting, Wine Tasting for Singles, Pairing Wine and Chocolate, Champagne for

Chaddsford Winery

Lastly, Chaddsford Winery is another local treat you will not want to miss. Located about 45 minutes away, Chaddsford is home to some famous (and delicious) mushrooms as well as luscious wines. Housed in a charming barn, Chaddsford Winery prides itself on a great atmosphere, an excellent experience and a great reputation that will keep you coming back for more.

Try their second tasting room located in Peddler’s Village for another historic atmosphere and a great selection of wines. Take a self-guided tour at the winery or sit and relax in the tasting room. Either way, you are sure to learn the history of Pennsylvania wine while sipping on sourced grapes from trusted growers. chaddsford.com

So, take a weekend and step out into the brisk air of winter. Wine awaits! rowhome magazine

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PRHthe menu

italian specialties

From homemade pasta & fresh mozzarella to heat & serve meals & party trays & everything in between, we have a great selection of quality products to make any meal a special occasion.

Courtesy of Camille DeCaro

Nana’s Struffoli Italian Honey Balls

Gift Certificates Available Call for Daily Specials

i n m e m o ry o f k at h e r i n e d i g u g l i e l m o

This is how we make Struffoli in our home – a recipe that has been in the family for more than 100 years.

Christmas would not be Christmas without them. But your family and friends will enjoy this authentic delicacy any time of year. Traditionally, the glaze is made with honey, but we use Dark Karo. Either way, they are delicious!

215.467.7644

Iliscoitalianfoods@verizon.net 12th & Ritner Philadelphia, PA 19148

Ingredients

Catering Available

➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

eggs 6 1 cup of sugar 1 cup of peanut oil (or other vegetable oil) 2 teaspoons baking powder

➜ t easpoon salt ➜ 6 cups of all purpose flour ➜ Multi-colored nonpareils for decorating

Directions

Spitalieri’s Italiano Ristorante

In a very large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the sugar and the oil and whisk together. Stir in salt and baking powder. Add the flour, one cup at a time, and stir until well blended. Use a wooden spoon or an electric mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Turn out dough onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Cover with a towel and let rest about an hour. Pinch off pieces of dough and roll into snakes the width of a pen. Cut into ½ inch pieces.

Flour them if they stick together.

To fry, you can use the Fry Daddy and peanut or vegetable oil, following manufacturer’s instructions.

Fry a handful at a time. Or, fry in a cast iron pan of hot oil. Once golden, after 5 to 10 seconds, remove from the pan using a slotted spoon.

After frying, place the Struffoli on a plate lined with white paper towels. Finish frying all of the dough. Make the glaze. Using glaze of choice, toss the struffoli in the hot syrup, coating well. Place on plate, arranging in a mound, and sprinkle with multi-colored nonpareils.

Traditional Honey Glaze Ingredients

Directions

➜2 cups honey ➜ cup sugar ➜ cup water

Place all ingredients in a 6-cup pot and heat on medium-low until sugar dissolves. Watching constantly, raise heat to high, bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Cook a few minutes more until thickened.

Remove from heat

267.324.3144 613 E Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa 19147

Karo Syrup Glaze

(Passyunk & South Streets)

www.spitalieris.com Like us on Facebook Ideal for Private Parties Call for Availability

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| rowhome magazine

Ingredients

Directions

➜2 bottles of Dark Karo Syrup

Pour syrup into a large pot and heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

gohomephilly.com

Courtesy of Matteo’s Italian Specialties

Maria’s

Chicken Palermo Serves 4 Total time to prepare and cook: 30 minutes

Ingredients ➜ 4 skinless boneless ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

chicken breasts 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 cup all purpose flour 1/4 cup olive oil 3/4 cup chicken stock 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes

➜ 1/2 cup heavy cream ➜ 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese

➜ 1/2 cup small diced sun-

dried tomatoes in olive oil

➜ 1 cup shredded aged Asiago cheese

➜ Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Rinse chicken breasts, trim fat and pound thin. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and dredge in flour. Heat olive oil in sauté pan, over medium heat. Pan sear chicken in pan 3-4 minutes on each side and transfer to a baking sheet pan.

Set aside. Add chicken stock and deglaze your pan, scraping away any fond (browned bits) from the pan. Bring to a simmer. Adjust flame if too high. Add crushed tomatoes and cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and add heavy cream. Simmer together for about 3- 4 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in grated Romano cheese. Spoon 3 tablespoons of sauce onto each chicken breast.

Top each chicken breast with 3 tablespoons of Asiago cheese and 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes. Bake in oven about 5 minutes until cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley.

I like to serve my chicken with roasted asparagus, red pepper, baby bella mushrooms and couscous.

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PRHbrides guide

The Secret to a Successful Marriage: The Wedding Coach

G Remark Weddings

Start with the right Coach.

We can help you find that joy! With services including photography and videography, to Wedding Planning and Staging, our team of industry professionals tallies more than three decades of expertise and can ease you down the aisle of your dreams.

A Wedding Coach can help you navigate this exciting time and make your wedding journey more memorable.

Interested? Here is a sampling of what a Wedding Coach can do for you.

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| rowhome magazine

by Heather Yerrid

etting engaged is one of the most important days in a girl’s life. After the excitement and surprise of the engagement, what’s next? LOTS of questions, for starters. When are you getting married? Where? What type of wedding are you having? How about the Gown? The bridesmaids’ dresses? On and on and on! What is supposed to be the happiest time of your life oftentimes becomes the most stressful.

We will Develop a be your budget and emotional rock. stick to it!

When it comes to weddings, family and friends are happy to share their insights with you. Remark represents the objective support you need.

We will be your emotional soundboard – creating a solid buffer between you and well-intentioned friends and family.

We will work with you to develop a budget and hire the experts to help make your dreams come true. One of the most stressful aspects of planning a wedding is analyzing the costs. We will help you stay within the bounds of your finances and stick to your wedding budget.

gohomephilly.com

Look and feel fabulous!

Every bride wants to feel beautiful and confident on her big day.

Interested in a healthy diet and exercise routine?

Let us help connect you to the pros that specifically cater to your workout interests so you can be the most amazing version of you!

Navigate your unique wedding dynamics.

Family dynamics sometimes complicate the wedding process.

Wedding Coaches specialize in dealing with divorced or remarried parents, extended families and logistics. We will help guide you through every family moment – the amazing and the awkward.

Stay on track.

We have the skills and the knowledge to keep you on track with mutually agreed upon wedding timelines. One of our jobs is to respond to emails from various vendors and serve as your primary point of contact.

Remark Weddings We will help bring your vision to life. We will guide you through the details so you can concentrate on your work, your relationship and your celebration.

So, sit back and enjoy the journey.

For more information visit www.remarkweddings.com Phil Kramer & Remark Weddings are members of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network

 PRH

Brides Guide

Fate,

Fanfare &

a Fancy Brigade!

a

by Joe Volpe

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| rowhome magazine

gohomephilly.com

I photos by Capone Photography

f you’ve been following this column for a while, you know that I usually begin it by focusing on the ecstatic brides and grooms whose weddings my team and I orchestrate at my Cescaphe Ballroom, Tendenza, Atrium at Curtis Center, Vie and Down Town Club.

Over the past 10 years, we have grown to coordinate more than 600 weddings a year. Each one is unique and represents the personal experiences of our happy couples and their families. Every 12 weeks, my RowHome Magazine Brides Guide column celebrates the trends that we hope will inspire brides and groomsto-be. From modern to traditional, sensational to sublime, our wedding receptions and ceremonies mark the start of a lifetime of memories.

On November 9th, 2014, my team and I produced a wedding for Lindsay Goehringer and James Colongo at our newly renovated Cescaphe Ballroom. I was so blown away by the amazing story that led to this young couple’s wedding day that I decided to take a break from showcasing wedding trends so I could document their journey and celebration.

Lindsay and James grew up about two miles from each other in Washington Township, New Jersey. Both have big, loving Italian families. In fact, the two had actually met about 20 years ago when James was in his early teens and Lindsay was in Kindergarten. Lindsay used to watch her father coach Little League baseball at the local field where James watched his brother play ball.

On Christmas night 2009, the two ended up with separate groups of friends at a nightclub in Philly. Neither could take their eyes off the other. As soon as Lindsay noted to her friends how handsome ‘that guy across the room is,’ James was standing in front of her introducing himself. Within seconds, the two realized that they had met a few decades earlier. James couldn’t believe how gorgeous the pretty little girl he briefly met all those years ago had grown to become.

James worked in financial services in San Diego.

Lindsay is an event coordinator for Anthony Michael Events in Horsham, PA. The two weren’t sure a long distance relationship would work but they traded numbers anyway. “We were optimistic,” Lindsay said. “But California is a long way from Philadelphia.”

The following Thanksgiving, family members encouraged them to get together. They agreed to go out to dinner to “see what would happen.”

“We picked up right where we left off,” James said. “It was as if we didn’t spend a year away from each other!” A few weeks later, Lindsay flew out to San Diego and spent the weekend with James. “As soon as I got on the airplane to come home, I knew he was the one,” Lindsay laughed. “I knew that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with this guy.”

by Joseph Volpe, Cescaphe Event Group

Lindsay and James managed the long distance relationship for three years before fate dealt them another opportunity. His company transferred James to Philadelphia.

They spent a year together before he got the call to return to the West Coast in September 2013. “It was like a cruel joke,” Lindsay said. “I couldn’t believe he had to go back to San Diego. We were both devastated.”

In the spring of 2014, James’ mom was diagnosed with cancer, which she has subsequently overcome thanks to the dedication of her medical team and a loving family.

James, who was head-over-heals in love with his longdistance girlfriend, decided to return to the East Coast to be with his family and to propose to his future wife. On March 9, 2014, James asked and Lindsay said “yes.” The two wasted no time planning their wedding for Sunday, November 9th, at Cescaphe Ballroom.

As an event coordinator, Lindsay was able to work quickly with Cescaphe Event Manager Bree Tomar to produce one of the most remarkable weddings that I’ve ever witnessed in my 20 years in the wedding business. In addition to the stunning décor and an endless array of mouthwatering delicacies – hallmarks of the Cescaphe experience – Lindsay and Bree pulled all the punches to deliver what this young couple refers to as “the perfect day.” I must note that James was involved in the entire process and insisted on selecting their amazing wedding cake.

Lindsay and Anthony Michael Events produced a 7-minute photo montage that they showcased on 70-inch flatscreen TVs for 200 friends and family members.

The images inspired laughter, tears and applause from an appreciative audience. The evening was elegantly enchanting until the die-hard Philadelphia sports fans in attendance unveiled an incredible surprise visit by Philadelphia Eagles mascot Swoop, who brought down the house with a rousing rendition of the team’s fight song, Fly Eagles Fly. But the real fireworks commenced when a 20-piece Pennsport String Band waltzed through the doors, inspiring guests to launch into their best Mummers Struts while out-of-towners quickly learned some fancy Philly footwork on the spot. “Everybody was blown away when the Mummers entered the room,” James said. “We were still slapping high-fives and fist-bumping after Swoop appeared. When the Mummers walked in, the place went crazy. We had so much fun! It was without question the best night of our lives.”

It’s heartfelt stories like these that get me up early every morning and keep me working until late each night. I love that my team and I help couples produce “the best nights of their lives” every weekend in Philadelphia. I feel blessed to meet so many happy people who commemorate the start of their lives together with Cescaphe Event Group.

Long live traditions. Old and new.

Cescaphe is a member of the PRH Business Network.

Ever keeping his eyes focused on the latest wedding trends, Cescaphe Event Group CEO/Chef Joseph Volpe

is recognized as the area’s leading authority on ballroom bliss. With his innovative approach to the most important celebration of your life, his award-winning Cescaphe Ballroom, The Atrium at Curtis Center, Tendenza, Vie and The Down Town Club combine a captivating ambiance with exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable experience. Visit cescaphe.com or call 215.238.5750.

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PRHTRAVEL

Snowvs.boots Sandals FLORIST • DECORATORS EVENT PLANNERS 1921 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-336-3557 800-248-3557 www.tenpenniesflorist.com

Bella Angel Bridal Hair & Makeup

Sunny shores are a phone call away

i

by Sandy DelGiorno

f you are lucky enough to live in Philadelphia, our proximity to a major airport makes it easy to trade your snow shovel for a swizzle stick and seek a smooth sailing, a magic kingdom or sunnier shores. With direct flights to countless destinations, an affordable vacation is just a yes away.

But not so fast! Getting away from it all certainly has its perks, but getting what you pay for can make all the difference. Before packing your bags, consider the services of a personal travel agent. Not only can an agent provide you with top-notch customer service, they are your best source for current specials, professional advice and recommendations.

Passport ready?

Did you know that your passport must be valid for 3 to 6 months beyond the date of your trip depending on the country you visit? A travel agent cannot guarantee sunlit skies but we will help you prepare to fly the friendly ones with pro-active management.

More bang for your buck If you have the time and inclination, using Internet travel sites can be fun and rewarding. You may find some good deals but booking online may not give you more bang for your buck. The buck can stop “there” if you need help with important questions, concerns or quick intervention on a reservation.

Call vs. Click

We come to you! photo by Andrew Graham Todes

Locations in Old City Philadelphia & Cherry Hill, NJ

Voted #1

in Philly for Best Hair & Makeup.

856-227-7774 WWW

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.BELLA-ANGEL.COM

| rowhome magazine

gohomephilly.com

An experienced travel agent will focus on cost and convenience, craft custom itineraries and arrange for transportation and guides.

Agents will even monitor your trip and store your travel data.

Upgrades, credits & a bottle of Bubbly Travel professionals are privy to a lot of industry information and are up-todate on emerging brands, innovative

trends, unique experiences, destination weddings and honeymoon hotspots. We have vast resources around the globe and our strong connections with reputable vendors and hotel managers that may help when it comes to a sweet little upgrade, food and beverage credits or a bottle of bubbly to enhance your stay. We compete against any published rate and may be able to offer a booking bonus or discount incentive.

Sign up for the latest specials VacationWired will provide you with exceptional personal service, offering complimentary consulting to help you customize the perfect getaway. Established in 2000 by Candace Sneberger, a former VP of the renowned Rosenbluth Travel Corporation, our boutique-style agency is staffed by dedicated specialists with more than 35 years of expertise.

Visit our website at www.

VacationWired.com for member access to monthly specials, leisure activities, destination details, travel guidelines and brochures.

Or call 215.735.2222 to speak with a VactionWired agent.

VacationWired.com is a member of the PRH Business Network

PRHfashion

Spring Things ❱❱

by Dominique Verrecchia

Nostalgia. It’s the one word that best describes the trends for spring 2015. Welcome back to the ’70s.

1

Minis & Midriffs This spring, the mini skater skirt is back! Any shade, any color, any print, any style. As long as it flows, it goes.

Skater skirts look best with high socks and closed-toe shoes.

Feel creative? Wear them with your Converse. Midriff tops are back on the racks. Loose tops show off your mid-section and are fun to wear with high-waist pants, boots or flats.

2

Loosey Goosey Loose-fitting shirts and dresses are taking a top spot on the fashion shelf, this spring. Loose tees with leggings or stockings are definitely a wise choice for hangin’ with the girls or going out on the town. Dress them up. Dress them down. They can never do you wrong.

3 4

Tee-Shirt Dresses & Kimonos Two big trends - the tee shirt dress and the kimono - are also keeping their spot on the stylish list. Tee shirt dresses can be worn with boots, sneakers, glads, toms. Dress up any casual look with a stylish kimono.

Cedrone’s Flowers Any Occasion. Every Day.

Floral & Funky Spring means flowers. Flowers mean floral! Designers are representing flower power in a new way with patterns, colors and designs. Funky denim is another big trend climbing the spring list of do’s. Jeans and denim jackets come in all different shapes and colors including bedazzled, printed, ripped or washed out.

5 6

The Hipster is NOT Dead The hipster-style is here to stay and better than ever. Flannel shirts, graphic tees, combat boots, Converse and grungy jeans and leggings remain on the list of what to wear this spring.

Fringe It’s a bird…it’s a plane… NO! It’s fringe! Back on the shelves to wow us in every way. Fringed shirts, fringed jackets, fringed bags, fringed everything! Fringe may come and fringe may go, but fringe will never stay away. Fringe is the happy median to any outfit.

The perfect “hippie” touch. It can make anything look fabulous.

This spring, get your flower headbands and John Lennon glasses ready because the fashion world is giving us a flashback to the prime time of the ’70s. As Coco Channel once said, ‘Trends may come and go, but style is eternal.’

Stay Fabulous!

Wedding specialist, John Marotta, former owner of La Mimsoa has joined the staff of Cedrone's Flowers

800 Lombard Street Washington Square West Philadelphia, PA 19147 PH: 215. 629.9858 CELL: 215.990.7812 Email: jaz349@comcast.net rowhome magazine

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PRHfashion

Sexy

and the

City Follow Krystal on her latest journey at www.instagram.com/krystaltini

KRYSTAL TINI photo by

| Zave Smith

wardrobe| KRYSTAL TINI hair, makeup

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gohomephilly.com

Spring ahead in sensuous suede  Slip into Suede. From skirts to pants to cropped jackets, we can’t get enough of soft, sensuous SUEDE this season.  Gingham makes the cut. This All-American print finds its way onto many shapes and styles of fabrics in hues of blues and pastel pinks.  Bohemian Rhapsody.

Drama makes an entrance with loose, luxurious, flowing fabrics that make a bold statement. Maxi dresses and skirts keep the Seventies trending into the next season.  Trace of lace. White lace is softening wardrobes and claims a top-slot as a must-have staple for any occasion. Blouses.

Cuffs & Collars. It’s all in the details.

 Not just for dressdown Fridays anymore, deep, dark denim stakes a claim in your closet. Jackets, skirts, dresses and jumpsuits for day or night. Tailored or oversized.  Flared pants will take you from a day at the office to dinner with friends. Pair them with a sparkly blouse or sequined tank for a night on the town. Finish with a tuxedo jacket or boxy blazer.  Flowers are big and bold. Oversized florals or pretty pink petals add a hint of sexy to dresses and suits.  Ballerina beauty makes a graceful entrance in chiffon skirts, tiered tulle dresses and organza capes.

 Shirtdresses add shape to your wardrobe with drop waists, sky-high slits and belted chic.  Mellow yellow. From canary to marigold, yellow melts like butter on fabrics, fashions and accessories. Find a shade that complements your skin tone and step out in style.  Black & White. Mix and match textures, patterns and silhouettes to turn this classic color combo into a bold new world.

Accessories in demand.

Mismatched earrings. Obi Belts.

Gladiator shoes and sandals – from ankle to knee-high. Flats are here to stay. Platform soles in leopard prints or sultry suede.

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PRHGreenSp ce

F

Farm to Table

ertile farmland. Not the first (or even the 100th) thing that comes to mind when you think of Philadelphia, but it’s not a total stretch, either. From Center City to Old City, South Philly to Fitler’s Square, plenty of Philadelphians are eating what they are growing.

Perhaps you have even walked by one of these vegetable plots in the summer, often hidden behind unruly flowers growing up the sides of chain link fences. In the winter, these same Philadelphians are frequenting the countless farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants and arguably, their food is fresher, tastes better and is better for them.

Make no mistake. It’s a fertile concept in Philly. There are hardcore “Locavores” – people who thrive by living off local land – in our midst. That is the extreme. Many of us fall somewhere on the spectrum of this trend by supporting local farmers or chefs at some of the city’s finest restaurants. And the most appetizing part of it all, it has never been easier. A great website to get you going: “Farm to Philly.” In their words, “We’re not barefoot hippies with patchouli stank running around trying to save the world. We’re students, homemakers and professionals just trying to do what’s best for us and what’s best for our community - which is to eat local as often as possible! ➺

by Kerri-Lee MAYLAND

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gohomephilly.com

I caught up with contributor Kevin Parker to learn more.

KL: Kevin, how big has the “farm to table” concept gotten in Philly?

KP: I am not sure how to quantify this but I think one measure is how farmers markets and local food have been absorbed into food culture in Philadelphia. A restaurant that uses local ingredients or a farmers market on a given day is typical now. Neither was 10 years ago.

KL: Why do you think it’s catching on?

KP: Well, first, it’s nearly impossible to argue that the quality is not superior. If it weren’t, it would never have caught on to the degree that it has. I think people also like that their purchases are helping the local economy and local farmers.

KL: For people wanting to change the way they eat and support “eating local,” what are some easy ways they can get started?

KP: There are so many farmers markets throughout the city now (some of them even year-round), that it is relatively easy to find one near you. If you are beyond just a few weekly purchases, you could join one of the many cases (community supported agriculture) and receive a “share” of produce each week.

Of course, there is the Fair Food farm stand in the Reading Terminal and Farm to City in the winter months with their fantastic buying program called Winter Harvest.

KL: What are some of your favorite “Farm to Table” Philly restaurants?

KP: Like all Philadelphians, I think of my neighborhood first, so my favorites are listed in proximity to my house. Southwark immediately comes to mind. They’ve been doing this longer than just about anyone else and have maintained a consistency and creativity that few restaurants have matched. For a casual neighborhood meal, I like Kennett.

Their gnocchi is a great example of a menu staple that adapts to seasonal produce. What Ellen Yin, Eli Kulp and the rest of the team at Fork have done is amazing. In addition to the local produce and meat, they are even incorporating foraged ingredients and heirloom grains into food that deserves every piece of acclaim they have received. Mitch Prensky at Supper does a fantastic job, as well. Few chefs pay as close

attention to vegetables as he does.

The Farm and the Fisherman is every bit as good as it was when Josh opened it and I think Russett has really come into its own.

KL: You mentioned the Winter Harvest. How can people keep eating local and supporting area farmers?

KP: Several of the farmers markets are year-round - most notably the Saturday Market at Rittenhouse. The Fair Food farm stand in Reading Terminal is always open and as I mentioned before, Farm to City’s winter harvest buying club is fantastic.

KL: Do you think this is a fad or is this style of eating here to stay in Philly?

KP: I would hope this represents a fundamental shift in how we eat. I hope farm-to-table progresses from one option for dining - to be considered alongside French, Vietnamese, or Mexican - to reflect a basic philosophy about the importance of local food and the possibility of using local food regardless of style.

Kevin practices what he preaches with a city garden plot of his own.

In my Center City neighborhood, my neighbors and I grew veggies, peppers and herbs in our flower boxes and whiskey barrels and I was always invited to sneak some bunches of basil from my next-door neighbor’s prolific display. (Can you say fresh pesto on a Tuesday?) Years of working at 4th and Market Streets introduced me to Fork, which has been around for more than 15 years and has remained one of my favorite restaurants. Another one for you to try is the gorgeous M Restaurant.

Phenomenal when the weather is warm but why not enjoy their beautiful indoor décor and dishes in the off-season? You’ll be supporting their commitment to eating locally year-round while savoring herbs and some veggies grown right in their own garden in a concept known as seed to plate. Talk about knowing where your food is coming from!

And in the summer months, you can dine while you watch it grow!

If your mouth is watering to change the way you eat, what have you got to lose? Oh, and just a little tip if you are going to plant edibles in containers in front of your row home this spring. Make sure your home is not on the way to one of the dog parks. a

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PRHTIPs FROM THE PROS Legal

141 League Street TEL: 215 271 0403

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Favors & Flavors Etc. 1827 E. Passyunk Avenue 215.271.7621

Chocolate Covered Fruit Snack Towers Crepes Donuts w/ Toppings

& rder LawO No will Who owns the home Q:

My mother passed away in 2010. My dad recently passed and he had no will.

My sister has no interest in the home, which has no mortgage and is worth approximately $75,000. What steps do I need to take to claim the property?

ElizabEth a. Emory Referral Associate Weichert Referral Associates FAX: 856-218-8424 OFF: 800-937-6777 RES: 856-218-8424 CELL: 267-252-4792 EMAIL: ee0809@comcast.net

A:

Assuming you and your sister are the only heirs of your father, your sister would have to execute what is known as a disclaimer. This document should be drafted by an attorney as it must describe her interest in the property and must state the extent of her disclaimer.

Lastly, it must be signed by her.

Q:My father was a retired fireman and

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2800 South 16th Street (Corner of 16th & Moyamensing)

Philadelphia, PA 19145 Call for appointment Walk-ins Welcome 58

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died of Mesothelioma 7 years ago. My mother thinks that she may be entitled to compensation for his death because of all the commercials that urge you to contact law firms if “a loved one died” of this condition. I think it’s going to cost her money that she doesn’t have.

Is this a scam or are families really entitled to some kind of settlement?

Once again, Frank DePasquale has been recognized by his peers as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for 2015. He heads DePasquale Law Offices, 2332-34 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145. P: 215.755.4410.

Email him at frank@depasquale-law. com or visit www.depasquale-law.com

gohomephilly.com

by Frank C. DePasquale Jr., Esquire

A:

Victims of exposure to asbestos may be entitled to compensation in the event they contract Mesothelioma.

However, in a wrongful death claim, there is a 2-year statute of limitations within which to file a claim of record with the court that begins to run from the date of death. Unfortunately, it appears that the SOL expired.

Q:

I am 77 years old and collect my ex-husband’s social security (he passed away in 2011). If I remarry, do I lose the benefits?

A:

If a person remarries before the age of 60, that individual cannot get widow or widower’s benefits.

Remarriage after age 60 will not prevent you from collecting those benefits



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.

PRHthe menu

Philly Courtesy of Lombardi Prime Meats

Roasted Beef Tenderloin In an easy Red Wine Sauce Serves 10 Ingredients ➜ (1) 4-5 pound whole beef

tenderloin, trimmed ➜ 2 teaspoons kosher salt ➜ 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper corns

Sauce

➜ 6 tablespoons butter ➜ 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots or substitute red onions

➜ 1 fresh rosemary sprig ➜ 1 cup dry red wine ➜ 1 cup beef broth, can be from a carton ➜ teaspoon pepper

Directions Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees. Turn small end of beef under about 6 inches. Tie turnedunder portion with string at about 1 1/2-inch intervals. Place in shallow roasting pan.

Sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is in center of thickest part of beef. For medium-rare, roast uncovered 30 to 40 minutes or until thermometer reads 135°F. Cover loosely with foil; let stand 15 to 20 minutes until thermometer reads 145°F. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10 degrees and beef will be easier to carve.) For medium, roast uncovered 40 to 50 minutes or until thermometer reads 150°F. Cover loosely with foil; let stand 15 to 20 minutes until thermometer reads 160°F. While beef is roasting, prepare wine sauce. In an 8-inch skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add shallots and rosemary; cook about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add wine; cook about 4 minutes until reduced slightly. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook about 10 minutes longer, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1 cup. Beat in remaining 4 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, with wire whisk. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Strain through a sieve to remove any solids. Remove string from beef and slice roast crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Arrange on platter. Serve with sauce.

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PRHTIPs FROM THE PROS

Power!

You’ve always had the

by Sara Canuso

I

nfluence and Persuasion! These are powerful words associated with success. The power of influence and persuasion is truly an art that can be mastered with careful practice. People are hard-wired to be driven by instinct, emotions, needs, wants, desires and beliefs. The majority of people have been using the power of persuasion from birth, but very few people actually study techniques on influencing others.

Before we go further, here are the definitions so we can be clear on what we are about to discuss.

❱❱ Influence – the capacity to have an effect on the character, development or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself

❱❱ Persuasion – the action or fact of persuading someone or of being persuaded to do or believe something.

I knew at a very early age that there was something about influence and persuasion that I not only liked and

enjoyed, but that I was pretty good at. I am going to go as far as to say that I was great at it. I became fascinated with my ability to influence people, and being conscious of it, it felt so right to me that I used it quite often. At the time, I knew it was impacting my life in a big way. Being a people person and loving to empower and inspire those I met, I found that the ultimate way

to influence and persuade people was to be myself.

Being authentic and caring was the wow factor in living a life of purpose and fulfillment.

I learned this on a two-day coaching retreat that really plunged me into searching for the next step in reaching a higher level of success.

Trying to find the tools and resources that were available, I discovered that those tools and resources were right within me. The following morning, I was scheduled to give a half-day women’s workshop at one of the leading companies in the region.

I was so fueled and filled with passion and excitement following my discovery, the words and emotions just poured out from both my heart and wisdom. This was

it. This was my natural facility when I saw the line of women waiting to speak with me. To share the words behind their tears, the dreams that had just been revived and, most importantly, the hope that now came to reside within them. Hope that led the way to a bigger, brighter and, for so many, a new future.

That was it! My life was never the same again. I knew then that this was the power of influence and persuasion.

There are those who use influence and persuasion to mislead and deceive people, but that is not what we are discussing here. When you approach people with honesty, truthfulness and sincerity, when it is clear that it is for their wellbeing, everyone feels the energy.

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gohomephilly.com

Everyone likes what they hear and, most significantly, everyone benefits.

We have all been victims of those who have tried to persuade us—or should I say con us—into doing something that would not benefit us in any way. We can sense it at first, then the feeling stirs mixed emotions, causing us to become confused. In most instances, when the confusion sets in, it is a red flag that something is wrong.

I can say, with the certainty of experience, that when you use the power of influence to benefit others – when you are your authentic self – everything flows with ease.

Instead of draining you, it continues to fuel you.

You must know your truths and eliminate the road-block-

ers so you can be in alignment and go with the current.

Are there days when there are detours? Absolutely. The road to success is always under construction. The difference is that we now know to enjoy the view while on the detour. Funny, when I was going through a time when both myself and my business were under major construction, the detour allowed me to find one of my greatest opportunities, which then launched me into writing for a newspaper, that in turn led to being featured on BBC on three separate occasions. You see, it turned out to be not such a bad detour, after all.

Here are a few basic principles of power and influence: ❱❱ First Impressions – This is critical. Within seven seconds of meeting someone or having someone

spot you, they are being very heavily influenced by you before you say a word. ❱❱ Head to Head – Think about the person’s pains, problems and circumstances. Carry on a conversation with interest, concern, honesty, and then work out how you can help solve their problem and reveal the next action step. ❱❱ Liking – People love to help others as a natural process of our shared DNA. When someone likes you, they will go out of their way to help, support, refer or do business with you. To have people like you, will give you the leverage to open many doors into powerful opportunities. To have people like you, you must begin by building good relationships. Be a good listener. Show sincere interest. Most importantly, show your appreciation for

those you meet. Even for the simple things that a person may have done for you. People want to know that they are appreciated.

I always show my appreciation by either sending a hand-written card or a small gift. It’s the little things that make a big difference. ❱❱ Storytelling & Proof – People love to hear stories. And they love to hear about proof of a solution working. I make a point to use storytelling as my proof in giving those I meet awareness, hope and solutions. I have used stories throughout my book and when doing my keynotes and workshops, I always use stories. My best reward is meeting someone long after they heard me speak and they share how one of my stories changed their life.

One such story that touched my heart deeply came after I

told my own story of how, at one point in my life, I needed money. Working two jobs was not enough. I had to take on a third job selling items at flea markets. Yes, collecting others’ trash and selling it to help me make ends meet. A young woman with tears in her eyes explained how she prayed every night that God would take her. End her life of hopelessness. She was saddened each morning as she opened her eyes and realized that her prayers had not been answered. After hearing my story, she wiped away the tears with a new feeling of hope. All that was needed was hope to pull her out of the darkness and into the sunlight.

I encourage you to consider the qualities of the people who have influenced you in your life and who continue to be an influence. I can probably guarantee they are people who are loving, sin-

cere and honest, who have touched either your heart or thoughts in a special way.

Think about how we enter into this world, with the touch of the doctor, then placed into someone’s arms to be held and feel nurtured and secure. Now, given the nourishment to grow, the words that bring a smile to the face, our cries until we are held and assured everything will be okay. Do you really think we are that different as adults? Think about yourself and what makes you smile and feel secure.

As you think about your own emotions, desires, needs and influences, you will see that you can master the power of influence with ease. prH Sara Canuso, Women That Influence, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network

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CONSTRUCTION, LLC. PHILADELPHIA, PA

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CRO Construction, LLC. 215.952. 8740 www.croconstruction.net rowhome magazine

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PRHmusic&art

Street Beat

Party with Pompo

by Bob Wagner photo by Stephanie Farlow

M

any musical acts today seem more interested in self-glorification than in simply entertaining their audience. One local performer is on a mission to change that trend. Meet Johnny Pescatore a/k/a Johnny Pompo.

For the past several years, Pescatore has been fronting the Johnny Pompo Band at various venues throughout the Delaware Valley. His performances give his audience something to watch. And something to remember. PRH recently sat down with Johnny Pescatore to talk about his alter ego - Johnny Pompo - and the band.

PRH How long has the Johnny Pompo Band been together?

JP The Pompo band has been

together since 2009. Following the release of my CD, I put the band together so I could get back out in front of a live audience again. It’s fun writing songs and recording, but there is nothing that compares to performing.

PRH Who are the members of the band?

JP Albert Fortino on drums. Dan Tillson on bass. Mark Perri on lead guitar. Michelle Marchiano

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on vocals/percussion and myself on lead vocals and rhythm guitar.

The musicians backing me up are all very talented, but more importantly, they are great people. We have fun together on stage and the audience picks up on that.

PRH What are you striving to accomplish with the Johnny Pompo Band?

JP I want to bring back old time

show business! I want every gig to be a party with Pompo!

Look at someone like Bruce Springsteen. The audience is having a ball at his shows. Ok, not everybody gets to play in a stadium! This is a grass roots effort. (laughs) But the

gohomephilly.com

same thing happens on a smaller scale. Have you ever seen a Charlie Gracie show? That guy has been performing for over 60 years and he and his audience still have a blast together every single night! True entertainers have that mastery. I work to make our audience have that kind of fun. Let’s forget about all of life’s problems for a few hours and have a good time!

PRH Where is The Johnny Pompo Band appearing these days?

JP Starting in January 2015, the

band will begin a residency at JR’s Bar (22nd & Passyunk). The entire Pompo Band will perform there once a month.

On other weekends, I will be hosting an open-mic night. But this will feature a full back-line of equipment – drums, amps, keys, the works. So come on out and party with Pompo!

In Memory The Johnny Pompo Band remembers fellow musician

Jimmy (James) Cleaver – a dear friend and fellow alumnus of St. Nicholas of Tolentine.

Jimmy was a great bassist and an all-around great guy. We celebrate his life and memory.

Follow the band at johnnypompo. com and phillysoundstudios.net

Q: Music Mentors?

A: I had 2 important musical men-

tors. Sadly, both are now deceased.

When I first took an interest in playing guitar, my boyhood friend Billy D’Aguanno was already an accomplished guitarist. Billy had a natural aptitude for the instrument and it showed. His mentoring had far reaching effects. I lacked Billy’s natural aptitude and struggled to learn to play things that came effortlessly to him. His encouragement helped me to learn to believe in myself. I was a young man at the time but he accepted me as someone who was serious about learning the

instrument. And his patience and understanding had a tremendous impact on my ability to learn (with great struggle) what came so easy to him. His death in September of 1986 was a loss that continues to resonate with me to this day.

When I was in my late 20s, Franny Carto (Nunzio’s son) was a mentor to me.

Franny was far and away the best guitar player that I ever knew personally.

Playing with him really expanded my horizons. He could play Led Zeppelin better than Jimmy Page.

He knew EVERY guitar part to every Zep song. I was once playing a gig and Franny showed up so I handed him my guitar. Some young kid asked, ‘Do you know Thank You by Led Zeppelin?’ Franny responded, ‘I know everything by Led Zeppelin.’ And I’m watching this exchange laughing because I know this kid thinks he is exaggerating or bragging. He wasn’t.

He LITERALLY knew every song

by Zep. ALL the overdubbed guitar parts, too! He was amazing.

Q: How did the band

get together?

A: Albert Fortino and I have been playing together for many years.

Going back to my cover band ‘CHAOS’. I was playing with a cover band named ‘WILD CARD’ with Dan Tillson earlier this year and when the band dissolved, Dan joined Pompo. Michelle saw us at a ‘WC’ gig and when I heard she sang, I invited her to join us on stage.

And I hooked up with Mark Pilli a little over a year ago on East Passyunk.

We just started talking and he mentioned he was a guitar player and joined us in September of 2013.

Q: What’s your theme or style?

A: Each gig is a party. Our tagline is ‘Come Party With Pompo!’ My aim is to break down the division between “us” and “them” – the performers and the audience. I want everyone to feel like we are all at a really cool house party where some people are playing acoustic guitars and singing. And the whole room is

engaged even if they are not playing or singing. My style is outrageous and I am known for my “over the top” outfits. Pompo is always decked out in flashy clothes and shoes.

Q: Who do you compare your sound to?

A: All of the players in this band have classic rock sensibilities. Our instrumentation is Bass, Drums and 2 guitars so in a sense, we are similar in sound to acts like John Mellencamp, U2 or Bruce Sprinsteen. However, my songs are very diverse. Partly because of my writing style and partly because I switch between playing a Les Paul, a Telecaster, a Martin Acoustic guitar and a Danelectro Electric 12-String.

Q: What is your ultimate goal?

A: Our ultimate goal is to bring joy and happiness to a larger audience. I am a performer and an entertainer. Not just a songwriter or singer/guitarist.

In 2015, we hope to produce some

conceptual videos to reach folks all over the world via YouTube and Facebook.

We have some videos up already on the website www.JohnnyPompo.com but I feel as though my songs will really work well as videos. I have already storyboarded a video for “The Big Mahoff.”

Q: From what section of the city do you hail?

A: We are all South Philly peeps!

Born and raised. Pompo and Albert are St. Nicholas of Tolentine guys.

Mark is from Epiphany parish and Michelle from Annunciation.

Dan bounced around a lot.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Philly?

A: The people. Particularly the “Old School” folks who treat everyone like family and know how to eat, drink and have a good time. They respect the generations that have come before them and treat their elders as wise and valued. I’ve travelled around the country and no one makes you feel as welcome as South Philly people.

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PRHmusic&art

Service Holistic healing helps pets above You deserve a Standing Ovation Self photo courtesy of Rose DiLeva

A

cupuncture, herbs and holistic medicine are not words we generally associate with Veterinarians. But Chadds Ford’s Dr. Rose DiLeva VMD is changing the way pet owners think when it comes to effective remedies.

Dr. DiLeva decided she was “tired of the same old treatments” and wanted to learn more about Chinese herbology, a field that has fascinated her for as long as she can remember. That fascination led the 1987 University of Penn grad to her certification from the Traditional Chinese Medicine & Chinese Herbology Institute of Chinese Medicine in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1997.

“I wanted to integrate conventional veterinary medicine and holistic medicine,” she said. It was her way of providing her furry patients with the best possible care.

DiLeva says the most common ailments in cats and dogs are musculoskeletal problems like arthritis and disc injuries.

She treats these problems regularly with acupuncture.

DiLeva says the greatest benefit of acupuncture is that there is no placebo effect, which can sometimes cause the mind to play tricks on the bodies of humans. DiLeva shares the case of Rusty, a Dachshund who suffered from a herniated disc. Barely able to walk when he first visited, DiLeva immediately administered acupuncture. Week after week, Rusty continued to improve. “He continues to jump and run around to this very day,” she smiled.

Rusty’s mom Eileen was so taken by Rusty’s response to DiLeva’s treatment that she contacted Carol Erickson of CBS 3’s Ask the Vet. The connection led to a monthly segment on the show where DiLeva discusses alternative treatments for common and not-so-common pet ailments. Ask the Vet airs on Sunday mornings at 7 a.m.

How does DiLeva get pets to sit still during treatment?

“Believe it or not, it is not very hard to get the animal to sit still.”

After placing the first needle into the GV20 point of an animal’s head, the obstruction of the Qi (pronounced Chi) is removed and the animal immediately relaxes, she explains. “Some animals actually fall asleep during acupuncture,” she says.

In addition to her holistic approach to animal care, DiLeva’s work with local firehouses – which was publicized nationally – caught the attention of Standing Ovation Movie producer Diane Kirman.

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gohomephilly.com

DiLeva received an Official Citation from Congressman Curt Weldon and The United States House of Representatives for her efforts to provide firehouses with properly fitting oxygen masks for pets rescued at fire scenes. The idea to help these four-legged fire victims came from the Delco Kennel Club, which turned to DiLeva for assistance. “Pets can suffer smoke inhalation, too,” DiLeva said. That call led to the Kennel Club’s purchase of 25 masks, a donation DiLeva matched. Ten years later, those masks have been distributed to firehouses nationwide.

Her concern for animals is an ongoing mission. DiLeva’s herbal knowledge led to further research on the benefits of herbal healing. In 2002, she founded Dr. Rose’s Remedies.

Her Healing Salve and Spray product line help combat common skin irritations that can be extremely uncomfortable for animals. The best part? These remedies are all natural.

“Once the salve is on the affected area, if the animal licks it (or if your kids touch it), it’s perfectly safe.”

Testimonials on her website speak volumes about the many animals Rose has treated. DiLeva continues to make major strides to help our four-legged friends each day through herbs, traditional and holistic medicine. When asked what she hears most from her patients, she says, “I wish I had known prh you were here earlier.”

To learn more about Dr. Rose DiLeva’s treatments and products, visit www.altpetdoc.com or drrosesremedies.com

by Jennifer Barkowitz

When Standing Ovation movie producers Diane Kirman, Dr. William Lewis and James Brolin heard about DiLeva’s donation of masks to the four-legged community, they knew that this was the perfect example of someone whose actions make the world a better place.

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine has teamed up with Standing Ovation Movie to give a Standing Ovation Award to someone who Stands Up, Reaches Out & Takes Action to make this world a better place by improving life on this planet for the people, the animals and all living things.

The movie Standing Ovation is about empowering young people to follow their dreams. As the lead character in the film says, “Just do it ’cause it’s the right thing to do.” If you know someone who should receive a Standing Ovation Award, email us their story at info@yourStandingOvation.com. Our panel will pick a winner and their story will appear in Philadelphia RowHome Magazine, on their website at gohomephilly.com and on the Standing Ovation webpage at StandingOvationMovie.com.

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PRHmusic&art

Hanging with Harry by Mark Casasanto

L

ast fall, I accompanied my daughter on a final round of visitations to her paired-down list of potential colleges and universities. Acting as her athletic agent, she paid close attention to academic curriculums of interest while we jointly focused on what a future collegiate lifestyle might look like for her.

As we checked out the clubs, extracurricular activities and the local landscapes, each school offered something interesting in terms of distinctive traditions.

And then there was Chestnut Hill College. Steeped in the natural beauty of the Wissahickon Valley, it’s hard not to stand in wonder, especially on your first visit. Amid the sloping hills, there’s a certain mythical, mystical – even historical – tinge to the architecture that surrounds the scenic grounds. “This feels so very Harry-Potterish,” I remember thinking. Little did I know!

Let me first declare that my interest in the original Harry Potter movie stemmed from a wild, mid-eighties fortnight spent with actor Richard Harris, who portrayed Professor Dumbledore. And of course, as the father of a then seven-year-old boy...

“Can we daaa, please daaa, can we go see it daaa pleassseeee!”

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Now in its 5th year, Harry Potter Weekend at Chestnut Hill College has grown from a relatively small gathering of Quidditch-playing enthusiasts to a neighborhood-wide celebration of wizardry, concerts, 5k runs, pub crawls and more.

There’s an educational component of the weekend that kicks off on campus on Friday with discussions, seminars and a keynote address. But the official start takes place when SEPTA runs the “Hogwarts Train” out of the Chestnut Hill West Station during Saturday morning’s opening ceremony. Even the Woodmere Art Museum pitches in with the Bales of Corwall Straw Maze for all to enjoy throughout the festive weekend. Germantown Avenue becomes a showcase of characters from the J.K. Rowlings series as they move from venue to venue clad in the costumes in and of the spirit of the magical weekend.

The highlight of the weekend, however, remains as it was in the beginning – the battle for The Brotherly Love Cup. This year, the Griffins from Chestnut Hill battled seven other colleges and clubs for the right to be called champion of the Quidditch pitch. Squads from Shippensburg and Kutztown Universities, as well as LaFayette and Vassar Colleges, were among the visiting teams.

gohomephilly.com

Christina Diaz, the Griffins’ Team Captain, was optimistic early on with “high hopes” for success on the pitch. She and her teammates practice twice a week, complete with broomsticks in hand. They work hard at it and as it often does, hard work pays off. For the first time in the tournament’s five-year history, the Griffins were able to hoist The Brotherly Love Cup after an exciting overtime victory over a strong and experienced club team, the New Jersey Nargles.

For Diaz, a senior, it’s the culmination of all things Harry Potter. She serves as co-chair of the Quidditch Board, the very group responsible for growing this smallscale idea to a destination weekend in one of Philadelphia’s prettiest neighborhoods dressed for fall. She says of the win and the weekend, “it’s all very exciting.” A tad understated, given the magnitude of what her respective teams pulled off on and off the pitch.

So, circle the next Harry Potter Weekend on your 2015 calendar and brush up on your wizardry before Chestnut Hill transforms, once again, into Hogsmeade Village. Until then, I may just have myself another butter beer whilst in search of my magic wand.

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PRHSalute to Service

Group honors Babe Heffron Bronze Statue for Bronze Star hero

by Maria Merlino photos by Maria Merlino

“I

f you called Babe Heffron a hero, he would have a few choice words for you,” joked Councilman Jim Kenney, who addressed a crowd that is raising money for a statue in his honor. Family, friends, dignitaries, military buffs and genuine admirers gathered at the Irish Pub to remember the local World War II army hero.

Heffron fought on the front lines in several major battles including Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge, for which he was awarded a Bronze Star. Actor Robin Laing portrayed Heffron in the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers.

“To Babe, his heroes were the men he served with, like “Wild” Bill Guarnere,” Kenney said. “This statue will show the 20-somethings and the millennials what can be done with a life. That any problems they may have are nothing compared to what men and women of service have paid for with their lives.”

The statue will depict Edward “Babe” Heffron as a 19-year-old soldier from a row house neighborhood in South Philadelphia.

It will be erected at Herron Park, 2nd & Reed Streets, in the Sacred Heart parish where he grew up.

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The Heffron dedication will be held on September 17th, 2015 – the 71st anniversary of Operation Market Garden.

Councilman Kenney contacted Sculptor Terry Jones after he saw Jones’ Scottish Immigration Memorial at 2nd and Chestnut.

“This will be a life-sized bronze,” Jones said. “Babe will be standing on marble steps, just like the kind you see on little streets around here. There will be an iron railing on one side, just like a row home.”

Visitors will be encouraged to take photos next to Babe’s likeness – a tribute befitting a man who fought in the name of freedom.

“The process I went through mentally was almost monastic. Public art is supposed to inspire people and make them think,” Jones said. He is happy with his vision.

Daughter Trish Heffron will donate her father’s ashes to the memorial, which will be preserved in a heart-shaped vessel and placed within the finished sculpture. In the same spot where his heart is.

“That will be his final resting place,” Jones said. In the heart of the neighborhood he called home. prh

2531-35 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia PA 19148

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The Petal Pusher

PRHSalute to Service

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Sid Mark celebrates 58 years as The Sounds of Sinatra

Bobby Rydell and Frank Sinatra Jr. joined the broadcast pioneer’s recent celebration held on what would have been Frank Sinatra’s 99th birthday. Sid Mark, known to Sinatra fans across the country as “the voice of Sinatra,” is the host of Sundays with Sinatra and the nationally broadcast Sounds of Sinatra.

Mark, a member of the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame, started his program – Friday with Frank – back in 1957. It has aired continuously ever since.

“I could have been anywhere for my father’s 99th birthday but I chose to spend it with Sid on his 58th anniversary,” Frank Sinatra Jr. said.

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PRHfilm

rban Trinit U y

W T he S tory

of

C atholic P hiladelphia

by Sam Katz Executive Producer

illiam Penn envisioned a different kind of community in his colony that would include the open practice of religious liberty – a “holy experiment”. But the reality was that this openness mostly applied to Protestants.

In fact, Penn wrote against Catholicism and the truth about “papal superstition.” And, on the ground in Pennsylvania, the reality was that Catholics did not enjoy quite so much of the “toleration.” Catholics prayed in their own homes, out of public sight, and when they finally did build Old St. Joseph’s church in 1733, it looked like a home and was tucked away in an alley. Catholics were barred from holding public office. By the end of the 18th century, while there were 11 Catholic congregations in Philadelphia, there was a growing uneasiness about the conflicts between American republicanism and Roman Catholicism. For many, the fear of Catholic loyalty to a distant Pope persisted, and kept the religious and political pot boiling.➺ By the middle of 1844, tension between Protestants and Catholics in Philadelphia emerged over which version of the Bible Catholic students would use in public schools.

The debate erupted into a full-scale street riot, among the most deadly and violent in urban American history. When the dust cleared and the blood stopped flowing, Philadelphia Catholics rose off the alley and stamped their roots in a new cathedral, ethnic parishes, their own schools and a cradle to grave cocoon

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that evolved into one the most impactful and powerful Catholic diocese in America. In Philadelphia, a Catholic could be hatched, matched and dispatched without ever leaving the safety of the Catholic Church and the institutions and communities it helped to establish.

This story, and so many others, will be among the many told by the documentary filmmaking team of History Making Productions, the firm I created to present Philadelphians with our city’s unique story. Our latest series,

Urban Trinity: The Story of Catholic Philadelphia is an 80-minute film that will excavate and explore the incredible journey that European, Latin American, Asian and African immigrants made, over two centuries, on their way to becoming Americans in Philadelphia.

Their common denominator was that they were Catholic. The film will be edited into three chapters: Off of the Alley (1700-1844); A City of Parishes (1845-1930); and Rise to Power (1930-2014).

Philadelphia’s rich history of ethnic neighborhoods, working class families, industrial power, labor movements, diverse and prideful communities, machine and reform politics is deeply ingrained in the City’s Catholic culture and people. In many ways, this is more a city of parishes. In the code of the Catholic resident, it was your parish that defined you. Over time, Catholic influence shaped the city in ways not well understood by most of us.

People like Saints John Neumann and Katherine Drexel and powerful prelates like Bishop Francis Patrick Kenrick and Dennis Cardinal Dougherty left an indelible mark on the Catholic flock and their city, a mark that remains at work today. And consider that no Catholic diocese in the western hemisphere has more Catholic colleges and universities than Greater Philadelphia.

Philadelphia’s Catholics have travelled a great distance from Ireland, Germany, Poland, Italy, Vietnam, Puerto Rico, Central America and West Africa and have helped make Philadelphia a diverse, complex and unique place.

St. Joseph’s University professor and South Philadelphia resident Dr. Kathleen Oxx leads our team of historical advisors. Katie’s book, The Nativist Movement in American History: Religious Conflict in the 19th Century, smartly analyzes anti-Catholic sentiments that commanded so much of the landscape of American political life in the early 1800s. She has recruited an all-star team of historians and scholars to help us uncover and interpret the Philadelphia Catholic story.

Urban Trinity will premier on September 23, 2015 at the Kimmel Center during the week of the World Meeting of Families and the recently announced visit of Pope Francis. It will also be broadcast that week as three separate episodes. The region’s leading television station, 6abc, will broadcast the series to be hosted by Action News Anchor, Jim Gardner.

Production of Urban Trinity is expected to cost $1 million. The Connelly Foundation has generously granted $300,000 and Pennsylvania has awarded a Film Tax Credit for $230,000. An additional $50,000 has

been committed and we are raising funds to cover the balance. Support, no matter how modest, is being solicited from people, foundations and companies throughout the region.

History Making Productions has been producing its first series, Philadelphia: The Great Experiment since 2010.

This EMMY award winning documentary film history, also broadcast on 6abc, has been highly popular with TV audiences as it traces the history of the city through episodes, webisodes and other short films covering 14 periods from 1600-1995. The next episode of the series tells the story of Philadelphia during the years of Benjamin Franklin’s rise to prominence from 1720-1765 and first aired on 6abc on January 8th at 7.30 pm. We are also working on a series called The Women of Philadelphia, a six-part documentary and the first in a series of films about Philadelphia innovation and innovators that will focus on the city’s surprising role in the motion picture industry. Both of these series are in production and will be ready for broadcast and screening in 2016.

Urban Trinity will be hosted at www. urbantrinityfilm.com. Philadelphia: The Great Experiment is available for public streaming at www.historyofphilly.com. All of the films are available to the public at no cost. ■

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Share your Family Album!

Send us those old family photos for Neighborhood Noir.

by Leo Rossi

RIVER TO RIVER. ONE NEIGHBORHOOD.

Writer, Actor, Producer Eastman-Rossi Productions

Hollywood

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PRHfilm

The Lessons I’ve Learned

Over my career, I have worked with hundreds of actors and directors. What I learned from some was restraint. The restraint I needed to stop from strangling them! But the life lessons I have learned from the following people have really helped me during my career.

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74

Ed Asner: (Mary Tyler Moore Show) Mr. Asner had total, unwavering confidence in the way he attacked his work. It was contagious.

Billy Crystal: (When Harry Met Sally, City Slickers) Billy uses humor. But there was always a lesson that was imparted along with the joke. It made me stop and think.

James Woods: (Onion Field, Casino) Jimmy works on the edge all of the time. It can be exhausting but he certainly kept me on my toes.

Which is necessary for an actor’s spontaneity.

turmoil. Some directors are “screamers” but Harold was a nurturer.

Robert DeNiro: (Goodfellas, Raging Bull) Bob possesses an insatiable curiosity.

He never takes anything at face value. He The late Harold Ramis: always digs deeper.

This is a diverse (Groundhog Day, group for sure but Analyze This) Harold they all taught me was a director who something I continue had the innate ability to use in my work. to stay calm through

Eagles go Hollywood There’s a sports bar in Hollywood where I got to watch the game whenever the Eagles play. It’s called Big Wangs. Yes, that’s the name of the bar. I didn’t make it up. The place is jammed with 300 to 400 Eagle fans, all wearing Eagles hats, jerseys and Eagles green. So, if you’re ever in Hollywood when the Eagles are on TV, you know where to go.

Jimmy Rollins playing shortstop for the LA Dodgers just doesn’t seem right. There ought to be a law!

w w w. c o n e s t o g a b a n k . c o m

My wife Lynn Eastman-Rossi and I are now the proud grandparents of a bouncing, baby girl, Nova Lynn Van Kooning. ■

Member FDIC

Ciao Philly!

| rowhome magazine

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East Coast

Picture Perfect Is your home fit for the big screen?

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Executive Director, Greater Philadelphia Film Office

alling all Property Owners and Managers of Functional, Film-Friendly spaces throughout the region!

We want to add you to our ever-growing database, which houses nearly 8,000 locations!

The GREATER PHILADELPHIA FILM OFFICE (GPFO) is the film commission representing Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. In addition to facilitating permits, police and other city service needs, all location requests must come through the GPFO. As an economic development agency tasked with creating jobs for working professionals in the creative economy – specifically, the moving picture industry – our job is to promote all of the resources and incentives that filmmakers seek when scouting for FILMING LOCATIONS. This process always engages our community of homeowners, business owners, neighborhood associations, block captains and more. Think of Silver Linings Playbook! Scouting for that project was greatly aided by the availability of public and private neighborhood location photos.

Some locations, such as warehouses, are especially important because they can be used in a variety of ways ranging from soundstage

to raw space, including storage for the art department and parking.

There are also categories in our database in which we could use more or updated images including Office Space, Performance Venues, Restaurants/Bars, Retail (Florists), Houses of Worship, Daycares, Medical Facilities, Nursing Homes and Private Residences (Row Homes, Mansions, Apartments/ Condos, Lofts and Mobile Homes).

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and exteriors are equally important.

Also, show what’s across the street Property.

Note whether there is street or lot parking on or nearby the site. ■ or on the sides of the

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PRHHEALTH

A-Weigh we go

Happy New

by Dr. Richard Dittrich

You!

t

he Christmas tree sits at the curb. Boxes of holiday decorations are back in the attic.

Strains of “Auld Lang Syne” still echo in your brain. With the exception of some stale holiday cookies left in the tin (the kind that no one really likes) and a never-ending supply of pine needles in the carpet, the holidays have faded to a dim memory.

It’s the time of year to don sweat clothes and hibernate with a good book and some hot chocolate.

Sound like a good idea? It really isn’t! What IS a good idea is to embrace the New Year with a new YOU! It is time to take a good hard look at the person in the mirror. Do you recognize the person looking back at you? Do you like what you see? You don’t?

Then it is time for change.

Take Control

Have the holidays landed on your hips? Some weight management strategies may be in order. The first step in controlling your eating is to identify the enemy. Purge your kitchen of holiday leftovers.

Empty the Christmas tins. Dump the leftover eggnog. Give the rest of the fruitcake to a nice neighbor.

Removing high-calorie snacks

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is the first step in weight control.

Most of us will eat what is available before “dashing through the snow” for a box of TastykakesÒ.

Make a plan for your next trip to the grocery store. Planning is the key to success. Make lists of lowcalorie foods that you enjoy and stick to the list. Never go shopping on an empty stomach. Nothing makes for an overflowing grocery cart like a growling stomach.

Avoid the aisles that tempt with cookies and high-calorie snacks.

Shop with the purpose of buying nutritious, low-calorie foods.

Plan your Meals

Does “low calorie” and “nutritious” sound boring? Then it is time to do some research. There are dozens of sites on the Internet that can help you plan healthy meals around foods that you enjoy. Don’t have a computer or I-Pad? Make a trip to your local library. If you need assistance, the librarian can direct you to books and magazines that will help you with meal and snack planning.

Make low calorie foods more appealing. A plain celery stalk is boring. Add some low-calorie cream cheese or peanut butter and it becomes a satisfying snack.

Is Fettuccini Alfredo your favorite meal? Look up recipes that substitute fat-free dairy products for highcalorie cream. Raw vegetables taste better when served with lowcalorie dressing or hummus.

Eliminate heavy gravies and buttery sauces. Instead, experiment with spices to add color and flavor to meats and vegetables. Craving something sweet? Try baking an apple with some cinnamon.

Read Labels

Become food label savvy. Check out the calories on the foods that you love and find acceptable substitutes. Is bread a daily part of your breakfast? Instead of a bagel (290 calories), switch to an English Muffin (130 calories). Trade a cup of ice cream for frozen yogurt and save 60 calories. It may not seem like much, but it adds up to 420 calories in one week! Beware of portion size. What does the portion size listed on the label mean? Raisin Bran is about 190 calories per cup – not per bowl! For the same amount of calories, you can have 4 cups of Puffed Rice! How hungry are you?

Love the way life looks on you

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Hibernating may seem preferable to exercise, but if you want to manage your weight, exercise is essential. Don’t want to join a gym? Take a walk.

Walking is great exercise. Do you work on the seventh floor? Try walking up a few flights and then get on the elevator. A few floors up or down can help with weight management AND heart health.

Ride a bike. Learn to play tennis. Find an activity that you enjoy and exercise will become fun.

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Have you tried food substitutions and exercise without results? Do you need more of an organized program of weight management?

Then it is time to meet with a physician and find a weight loss plan that is right for you. For many people, sticking to a low-calorie diet plan is easier if a weekly “weigh-in” is part of the plan.

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Dr. Richard Dittrich, GYN & The Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center are members of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network Serving patients for more than 30 years, Dr. Richard Dittrich has offices conveniently located in South Philadelphia at 1313 Wolf Street - 215.465.3000 - and in Voorhees, NJ - 856.435.9090.

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PRHHEALTH

Writer Honors Patients Battling Cancer Gina Naseef recited her poem for an audience of patients and their families at CELEBRATE LIFE at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

“The patients were being honored because they have been cancer free for 5 years,” Naseef said. “The poem is about finding your inner sunshine. It is a poem that offers hope. Everyone needs hope and this poem gently reminds us all that even in our darkest hour, we can look inside ourselves and find the hope we thought was lost.”

SUNSHINE

by Gina M. Naseef

I can’t go a day without my sunshine you see It feeds me - makes me feel whole, said she When sun shows its face She glides through the day Smiling and happy All things go her way But when a day offers a blustery wind Rain, snow or sleet Darkness or dim

By the brim Cover her eyes ‘Til sun shines again When she feels very low It’s up to her to decide To GET UP and GO Find the sun where it hides REMEMBER when sun isn’t shining outside That there’s plenty of sun that comes from inside

She wants to pull down her hat

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Food for thought 78

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S E RV I N G B R E A K F A S T, L U N C H & D I N N E R

Stress: An assault on our senses

T

by Dr. James E. Moylan, D.C he increasing complexity of our daily lives and the demands on our time and attention are commonplace. The stress and competitive nature of our jobs are also on the rise. Our reliance on technology has brought the world’s troubles to our doorstep, instantly, through social media and the Internet.

Sound, air and water pollution are all at their highest levels ever. Combined, these assaults on our senses create a physical and emotional reaction.

At Vincenzo's we take our cooking seriously

Fight or Flight

Modern healthcare is recognizing that many illnesses are caused – or worsened – by stress. The simplest explanation of how stress weakens the body and leaves it vulnerable to disease has to do with the release of excess amounts of the stress hormone, cortisol. When stressed, our brains signal the body to dump extra cortisol into the bloodstream, preparing us to fight or run in the face of imminent danger.

This is commonly known as the “fight or flight” response.

Top 5 Ways to Avoid Stress 1 Eat high protein foods.

Protein-rich foods contain the amino acid tyrosine, which boosts levels of the feel-good neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.

These chemicals increase by eating chicken, beans and lean, grass-fed beef.

2 Increase Vitamin D. Vitamin D levels are very low in those who suffer from depression and heart disease. Sunlight is our best source of Vitamin D but supplements of Vitamin D3 have helped those suffering from winter depression.

Vitamin D levels are linked to melatonin levels. Melatonin is normally secreted as we sleep and increases during seasonal changes in daylight.

3 Get Essential Fatty Acids. Essential fatty acids

include Omega-3’s, Omega6’s and Omega-9’s. Proper balances are required for physical and mental health.

4 Exercise & Shut Down.

A walk, a run, a stroll. Anything that gets your heart pumping and your muscles moving is good for you. Enjoy nature, inhale the cool air and most importantly, turn off the electronic devices for a while.

5 Get a Chiropractic Adjustment. The physiological impact, the relief of nerve stress and the subsequent relaxation of muscles and associated organs makes a Chiropractic adjustment not only a great way to reduce stress in the short term, but in the long-term, as well.

Restore the normal function that stress steals away.

Dr. James E. Moylan, Chiropractic Physician, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network

Andreozzi Photography

WEDDINGS • SPECIAL EVENTS • BIRTHDAYS • ANNIVERSARIES

Andrew Paul - Photographer “QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHY FOR LESS” (484) 614-1952 apandreozziphotography@aol.com apandreozziphotography.com rowhome magazine

| 79

by Wendy Hamilton

HAPPY WINDOWS

• 2-inch wood • Pleated Shades • Shutters • Roman Shades • Verticals • Drapes • Mini Blinds • Valances

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PRH Writers Block

The Mommy Memoirs

Where, oh, where is that Elf on the Shelf

“B

rush your teeth NOW!” I hiss the last word like a cartoon villain.

8:17. Still time to make him more than toast-to-go for breakfast. Still time to start today feeling (briefly) like the mom who has it all under control. Hah. “Mom! Come look!” I keep making my bed, and yell back from my room, despite the nagging knowledge that this distant response will be ineffective. “It better be clean teeth I’m looking at.”

No response. My 6-year-old has mastered the art of Not Responding - knowing that it is the fastest way to get me to “come look.” Genius, really.

I start down the hall toward his room, only to turn back toward the foyer when the dogs erupt.

“OK OK OK!” It’s the plumber about the drain out front. The plumber who, I was certain, promised to stop over tomorrow. I will squeeze this in or he will start another job and I’ll be raking leaves off the storm drain all winter.

I crack the door open.

“Morning, Rick. Be right out.

Let me throw on a coat.”

Bed hair, pajamas and yesterday’s mascara slip off my priority list just like that.

“Mom! Come look!”

“LISTEN. TO. ME.” Cartoon villain again. “I’m running outside for a minute.

Be IN the kitchen when I return. TEETH. CLEAN.” 8:32. Back in the kitchen.

Owen and his babysitter need to be in the car by 8:53 to make art class on time.

And still, no shiny-toothed child has appeared.

“MOM.” Grabbing my hand, pulling me to his room. “You are going to LOVE this. Ok wait here. Come in when I tell you!” He loves lights and music so his projects always involve a minute or two of leadtime while he starts the show.

“Bud, we gotta move. Can

gohomephilly.com

I see this one tonight?”

“Just stand HERE. One minute.” He disappears. Along with my hope for more than toast.

At least art class provides a deadline today. The minute they back out of the driveway, I will grab the elf from the storage room, set him up and be off to work. Easy peasy.

I planned to leave at 8:15, stop at Starbucks (yay!) and be in by 9:00 today. But 10 is looking like a pretty good outcome given the circumstances. The elf should have been planted after bedtime last night but I fell asleep. So he didn’t wake up to an elf. He can come home from school to one. High-class problem.

8:55. Handing over toast as he heads toward the car. “Bye buddy. See you tonight. Love you! Thanks, Sarah. Drive carefully.” I watch them climb in and leave the driveway.

I am up the steps in a single bound. Scanning the room, scanning the room, where is that elf? I move a large box of tree ornaments and am relieved to see the Elf on the Shelf package behind it. I flip back the lid but the wire ties are wide open and no elf. Hmmmm. Scanning the room. Really need to find a day to organize these shelves.

What a bomb scene. My eyes lock on a shoebox with Sarah’s handwritten note: Elf on the Shelf is in here. Thank God. 9:05. I have to get on the road.

Empty? Where else would the little bastard be? I remind myself that he is not eluding me. He is wherever I put him away on December 26th last year. (I spend an entire month each year talking casually about his nightly trips to the North Pole. Explaining the special sugar-powered bike that gets him there and acting surprised each morning to find him hanging upside-down in a cupboard, appearing to drink maple syrup through a straw. Or submerged to his waist, head-first, in a dish

of M&Ms. So I’m not completely crazy for thinking, momentarily, that the little devil is hiding.)

Scanning the room. Panicking at this unexpected delay. I rifle through boxes of Christmas decorations, worsening the condition of the room. What the hell? I’m always distracted and multi-tasking. But I’m logical. There is NOWHERE else I would have put him. 9:10. The nutcracker and tree-top angel are staring at me, tight-lipped, from their shelf. I think they are laughing. Quick text to Sarah.

She suggests all the places I’ve already searched. This is a problem because she - and she alone - knows where everything related to my son can be found. Left shoe. Helicopter remote control. Favorite dinosaur. Lucky Chapstick. But now, in this crisis, not the elf.

She returns from art class dropoff. We search together. No elf.

9:15. My decision is made.

I am en route to the Hallmark store, mentally testing possible explanations for the two risks I now face: 1. Today’s replacement elf might not look exactly the same as the one I bought five years ago. Owen will notice if one eyelash is out of place.

2. The first elf might turn up. Owen, I am sure, will be the one who finds him.

9:45. I have both of these dilemmas worked out by the time I reach the display.

I grab the box, scanning the artwork for anything new as I approach the counter. I am a Girl it says in the upper right corner. Back to the display.

(I can explain that, too, but maybe Christmas at age 6 isn’t the time or the place.)

I am victorious. I am paying for I am a Boy elf. I will be at work by 10:20, albeit with no Starbucks. We will wake up to the return of our Elf on December 2nd.

Only one day late. Mommy, 1. Evil Universe, 0. prh

  PRHthe menu

De Fino Law Associates, P.C. Don’t Settle for Less

Courtesy of Jen Jackson

One Cowboy’s

Bourbon Chili

Michael Anthony De Fino

Vincent Anthony De Fino

Attorney at Law

Attorney at Law

Nicholas J. Starinieri

Nicholas L. Palazzo

Attorney at Law

Attorney at Law

Areas of Practice Personal Injury DUI Wrongful Death Criminal Defense

Wills and Estates Corporate Real Estate Traffic Violations

4PVUI #SPBE 4USFFU t 1IJMBEFMQIJB 1" 5&- t '"9 XXX EFÄ•OPMBXZFST DPN

Ingredients âžœ 2 pounds ground beef or âžœ âžœ âžœ âžœ âžœ âžœ âžœ âžœ ½

ground veal or sausage 2 red onions, diced 4 mini sweet peppers, diced 1 jalapeĂąo, diced 1 tablespoon chopped or minced garlic 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon celery seed 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

teaspoon sage 1-2 cups Bourbon 2 large cans tomato puree cup sugar 3-4 tablespoons barbecue sauce 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 3 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon paprika Scant pinch cinnamon Small bunch fresh cilantro, minced

Directions Combine onions, peppers, jalapeĂąo and garlic, set aside. In a large pot over medium high heat, brown meat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

If using sausage, remove casings first. Add set aside vegetables to meat immediately. SautĂŠ vegetables with the browning meat. When the onions begin to become translucent and meat has begun to brown, remove meat and vegetables from stove. Place a colander over a large bowl and drain until the majority of grease has run out. Return the meat and vegetables to pot. On high heat, continue to brown the meat and vegetables. Add to mixture black pepper, cumin powder, celery seed, sage and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir into meat mixture. When meat has begun to darken deeply, remove from heat and deglaze the pan by adding the bourbon.

Return to high heat and stir for two minutes to let the alcohol burn out.

Turn heat to medium and add 2 large cans of tomato puree. Stir. Stir in sugar, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, cinnamon and fresh cilantro. Let chili simmer on medium-low heat for 30 minutes or until you can’t wait to eat it.

Paul Stolfo, Director • Marianne Stolfo, Director

The Tradition Continues the Fourth Generation

The Stolfo

Funeral Home Where Everyone is Treated Like Family 2536 So. Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376 rowhome magazine

| 81

PRHthe menu

Courtesy of Dominic Condo

Nutella Stromboli cucinadomenico.com

Being a writer of an Italian-American-themed food blog, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that I have quite a few tasty and traditional guilty pleasures. Nutella and Stromboli are way up on top of my list. With this recipe, I allowed both tasty worlds to collide. This was a fun and easy recipe that my daughter Julianna and I enjoyed working on together. We started by having Jules spread Nutella on a defrosted frozen pastry sheet as I sliced up some fresh strawberries and bananas. When spreading the Nutella, we left a one-inch border on all four sides. This would allow us to fold and tuck the pastry sheet and not have any Nutella run out while baking. Once rolled, jelly-roll style, we brushed a little egg wash on the top of the rolled pastry. We topped it with a sprinkling of cinnamon and baked it in a hot oven on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet. In just a short amount of time, we had a piping-hot dessert ready to be shared with my wife and our younger daughter Ava. Be sure to serve it with a little whipped cream on the side. I’m positive that you can go in all kinds of fun and crazy directions with this recipe. Keep it fun, let the kids get involved, and I guarantee that it will make for a tasty and memorable evening for you and your family!

Nutella Stromboli Ingredients ➜ 1 frozen pastry sheet, thawed

(Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry) ➜ cup Nutella spread ➜ cup sliced strawberries ➜ cup sliced bananas

➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

1 egg 1 tablespoon water Cinnamon sugar Whipped cream

Directions Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. On a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet, place thawed but still cool pastry sheet in the center. Spread Nutella evenly over the pastry, leaving a one-inch margin on all sides. Place sliced fruit over the Nutella in a single layer. Carefully roll the pastry sheet jelly roll style. Beat egg with water for an egg wash. With a pastry brush, paint the top of the roll with the egg mixture. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. Bake for 15 minutes in the pre-heated oven. To serve, slice and top with whipped cream.

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PRH

SPORTS

The Philadelphia

Spinners

gain momentum

Tues. - Sat. 11am - 8pm / Sun. 11am - 5pm

215.551.0717

1906 East Passyunk Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19148

One of pro sports’ best-kept secrets is turning heads

M

ove over Eagles! Philadelphia sports fans have a new team in town. The Philadelphia Spinners are just a month away from kicking off their third season as part of Major League Ultimate, a professional Ultimate Frisbee league with teams in eight countries across North America.

And with the first round of tryouts for this year’s Spinners’ squad set for January 4th, the returning key components of the team couldn’t be more excited.

“The guys have already been putting in the work in the gym and out on the field this offseason,” Spinners captain Nick Hirannet said. “We’re going to be bigger, faster and stronger, which means more exciting plays and a lot of Ws.” Hirannet has the right to be excited.

The Spinners had a bounceback season, last year, becoming one of the league’s must-watch teams, just missing the playoffs by a game. And with Philadelphia returning all of the best players for 2015, the Spinners look poised to challenge the MLU Champions, the D.C. Current.

But it’s also exciting because, as a part of Major League Ultimate, the Spinners are bringing the sports world’s bestkept secret to the masses.

“Fans who are new to Ultimate should come to games to see

why Ultimate is such a fastgrowing sport,” says top-player Dave Baer. “Ultimate is unique in that it combines a lot of the best parts of other sports. We have the pace of hockey, the field sense of soccer, the elevation of basketball and the highlight reel big plays of football.”

There are numerous highlight reel plays in each contest and the mainstream sports world has taken notice. A number of plays have made it onto ESPN’s Sportscenter Top-10 Plays.

A family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on the young fans of the sport complements the intense play on the field.

The Spinners make their presence known in the community, holding plenty of events for children interested in the largest-growing sport in the United States. Since last season, they have run clinics for young athletes and a canned-food drive for charity, while also appearing at plenty of events, including Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Spinners’ general manager Jacqueline Freedman initiated the Spinners Student Program, designed to provide rewards to the Spinners’ young, rapidly growing fan-base.

At games, the Spinners’ mascot, Dizzy, quickly became a staple last season, hyping up the fans, posing for pictures and making everyone’s experience that much more memorable.

The Spinners play a 10-game regular season, with five home games. Each one is sure to be a party, with the majority looking like they will end in wins.

“The biggest thing to look forward to this year is how high the Spinners’ ceiling really is,” Baer said. “Last year, we really ended on a high note, and as a team, we are primed to continue that momentum. We have all the main pieces back and we are in a great position to succeed this year. If we can stay healthy, we should be one of the top teams in the league.”

Regardless of result, Spinners games are sure to entertain.

“Once you see it,” Hirannet said, “you’re gonna love it.”

Visit philadelphia.spinners. mlultimate.com to learn more

SEE THIS AD? Of course you do. And so do thousands of readers throughout the region and across the country.

Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming back.

PRH Advertisers get results.

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FAX: 215.271.5720

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| 83

A message to our

Neumann-Goretti

Alumni W

e hope this communication finds you with a residual hint of holiday glow and eager to make the most of your 2015! We here in the Alumni Office are starting off the New Year by making a resolution to reacquaint ourselves with our valued alumni. To this end, we hope that you will enjoy this gift of nostalgia courtesy of the Millay Club Alumni Association of Ss. John Neumann-Maria Goretti High School and Philadelphia RowHome Magazine.

Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine is a quarterly publication that promotes the positive aspects of Philadelphia neighborhoods. Its people, traditions, lifestyles, businesses and home design.

RowHome, which debuted in 2004, was founded and is currently published by St. Maria Goretti graduates Dorette (Retallick) Rota Jackson ’77 and Dawn (Retallick) Rhoades ’80. After just one glance, we are sure you will agree that this magazine is a must-read and a testimony to all that a Neumann-Goretti education can inspire!

Ss. John Neumann-Maria Goretti High School continues to instill strong Catholic values in the youth of Philadelphia and beyond. We would love nothing more than to keep you connected to our past and present success stories.

Respectfully,

With Pride,

Edward McBride ’55

John Murawski Jr. ’96

Millay Club President

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Director of Alumni Relations

Forging our future….Treasuring our tradition.

Our gift to you!

We welcome your support!

Please accept this issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine as a gift from the Millay Club Alumni Association. It is our way of keeping you connected to the neighborhood you call “home.”

To continue to receive the magazine OR to support Ss. John Neumann – Maria Goretti High School as we welcome a new generation of students, we invite you to get to know us, again.

Sign up for a full year’s subscription to Philadelphia RowHome Magazine! All proceeds from your subscription benefit our school! OR make a one-time donation. For your convenience, we have included a postage-paid envelope inside this issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine.

Giving back is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1

___Please continue to send me Philadelphia RowHome Magazine and alumni updates by mail.

Millay Club Members ___ $32 for an annual subscription (4 issues)

2

3

___Please continue to send me Philadelphia RowHome Magazine and alumni updates via email to me at this email address: email______________________

___Thank you for sending me this gift issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. Enclosed is my donation to Ss. NeumannGoretti High School.

Non-Members ___ $48 for an annual subscription (4 issues)

Include your contact info!

Name: Class of ‘: Address: City: State: Zip: Email Address: Phone: Cell Phone:

Saints WIN!

Perfect Score

Congratulations to the Neumann-Goretti Saints Football Team for winning our first Catholic League Football Title since 1954! The Saints defeated West Catholic ending their 52 game winning streak and dominance of the Catholic League crown for the past 2 years. The Saints then went on to defeat the Huskies of Prep Charter for the City Title!

The Saints were recently eliminated from the state playoffs after a 3rd round loss. We are so proud of all of their hard work and accomplishments this season. Go Saints!

What can a Neumann-Goretti education inspire? How about a perfect score in not one but two sections of the SAT! Congratulations to Ss. Neumann - Goretti senior Jessica Pasquarello on this amazing academic achievement. Jessica has been accepted to the University of Alabama where she plans to study Journalism. We are certain that Jessica will continue to amaze and inspire all of those that surround her, thanks to the education that she received here at Neumann-Goretti!

Tap the APP! Download the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine FREE APP on your Smart Phone today!

Tap the Millay Club button and your donation will be directed to Ss. Neumann-Goretti! It’s that easy. w w w

.

t h e m i l l a y c l u b

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o r g

/

i n d e x

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p h p

/

a n n u a l

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a p p e a l

We look forward to hearing from you! rowhome magazine

| 85

PRHSCHOOLYARD

It All Just

Clicked

by Joan Roman of Uranium Productions

Part: One

It began early summer when Stephen Ligambi and I received a call from Fred Ellman and Steve Lernell to produce a digital commercial for their new tween jewelry line Click-eez. We all felt passionately about the video being more than just another advertisement for a trendy fashion accessory.

Bullying is currently a serious social issue affecting 3.2 million students each year. Children deserve the freedom to be themselves. So, when we presented our “Click not Clique” video marketing campaign, the decision was unanimous.

From that moment on, it all just clicked. I knew instantly our Rowhome kids would be the leaders of this anti-bullying movement. The next call was to

childhood friends Aci Nae founder Monica Mullett’ and PPACS teacher, Nicole Malandro. Both women gathered more than 200+ local students to participate in Click-eez related events and have become an integral piece to the campaign’s overwhelming success. The 1st video premiered online with more than 1,000 views in less than 24 hours.

When your child wears Click-eez, they make a promise to CLICK (Care, Love, Include, Considerate, Kind ) & a portion of that sale is donated to the ETCB (End of Cyber Bullying Organization).

We also are proud to announce most recent collaborations with star maker Sal Dupree, Mara Justine of America’s Got Talent and female indie sensations

NiNA SiEGEL & Stevi Leigh in association with Valentina Scaruzzi, Armani Fresh, and LJ Philly Dance who are now creating the new Click-eez theme song & music video together.

Uranium Productions is a boutique multimedia marketing and production company founded

by South Philly natives Joan Roman & Stephen Ligambi. Order now & support the anti-bullying movement on: www.click-eez.com Click -eez will host an anti-bullying benefit concert at the IATSE Ballroom on Saturday, February 28th.

Ss. John Neumann-Maria Goretti Catholic High School Success Starts Here!

Congratulations to the Neumann-Goretti HS Football Team

The Saints are the 2014 Catholic League and City Champions!

With so much to be proud of ...

Who wouldn’t want to become a Saint!

To learn more about how to start your SUCCESS story please visit us at neumanngorettihs . org

Ss. John Neumann-Maria Goretti High School 1736 South 10th Street, Philadelphia PA 19148 215-465-8437 ex: 229

1736 South 10th Street • Philadelphia, PA 19148 “SUCCESS STARTS HERE” www.neumanngorettihs.org • 215-465-8437 86

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PRHon the corner

Matters ON THE CORNER

I

with

Mark Casasanto

t’s just after 9 p.m. on a damp, dreary December night. Sitting in a black SUV outside a local Starbucks, I’ve been laying in wait for well over an hour. An arrangement for a sit-down has now been onagain, off-again for three nights running. Suddenly, in the quick of the night, she appears. As she scans the crowded cafe, I peer through the rain-splashed windows to get a good visual. She looks determined, so I move quickly towards the entrance. Pleasantries aside, we get down to business. As these things go, wasted time is opportunity lost.

Two nights after the Season 5 premiere of Mob Wives, there’s a swirl in the South Philly air. And Natalie DiDonato is cruising in its jet stream. A quick look at social media outlets confirms that the buzz is more like a blizzard. And from deep within this raging Nor’Easter, a powerful left hook is about to be unleashed. Should DiDonato have her way, that’s the punch that will be heard around the world, both for her and her beloved hometown.

Ever in motion, this much

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we know about the aspiring entrepreneur and the newest cast member of Mob Wives.

She’s been in public accounting since she was 14 years old. After getting her real estate license, she earns an honest living as a listing agent for The Condo Shop. Those experiences – the number crunching, the art of the negotiation – are the essentials responsible for crafting her management skills.

Talents she now applies to managing and booking locals like DJ Major and songstress Margie Martino through her comgohomephilly.com

pany Puro (Italian for pure).

Even with time being at a somewhat taxing premium, she’s a tireless advocate for charities, donating enthusiastic know-how to causes near and dear to her heart. She helped feed more than 300 homeless people at St. John’s Hospice on Thanksgiving Day with Food For Thought. DiDonato hosted A Celebrity Christmas Charity Event whose guests included most of her Mob Wives cast mates. The crew raised money, gifts and awareness for Toys For Tots and Women Against Abuse.

Then there’s La Creme. A family alliance with local design femmes Aci Nae to produce a luscious line of lingerie that’s looking to launch sometime this spring. Models, however, need not apply. Natd215 (as she is often hash-tagged) will strike the poses herself.

Navigating this congested highway can be tricky, but DiDonato vows to stay in her lane. Still, burning up both ends of the Jersey Turnpike is no easy task. Although she’s focused and ambitious, it comes with very little sleep.

She says she doesn’t want to get caught up in the hype along the way.

To that, DiDonato remains humble. She’s worked hard

Comedian Buck Wild & Natalie DiDonato mug on the Red Carpet.

for her shot. While there are obvious similarities to Kim Kardashian, even the suggestion backs me into my corner with a counterpunch. This reality star sees herself more as a business maven, not another pretty face living her 15 minutes of fame. She makes it perfectly clear. Oprah is the better inspiration, no disrespect to Kim. Then there’s family.

Her lineage is traceable through Philadelphia’s Organized Crime family tree. She doesn’t run from the truth.

Honestly, it was the perfect hit for the producers of the popular VH1 series. But beyond the swagger, the cursing and finger waving, there’s more substance to the 34-year-old DiDonato than what’s seen on TV in seven-minute segments.

She is steeped in the traditions of South Philadelphia.

Passionate. Caring. With a deep-rooted love for family and friends. At the end of the day, it is abundantly clear what matters most to DiDonato. But before heading back into the black of the night, she coyly confesses that her mom would love to move to California. How can you not like the odds of Natalie making that happen?

After all, family matters. Onthecornermark@verizon.net prh

photos Courtesy of Kee Vandaway / Mikee White of Vandaway Imaging

Family

Natalie DiDonato walks the Red Carpet for her Celebrity Christmas Charity Event at the Tower Building.

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me. e the staff all know “I love to bank wher ships ion n Bank values relat Like us, Valley Gree interest in the local and has a genuine re.” community and cultu ALLAN EDMUNDS, RKSHOP BRANDY WINE WO 2009 CE SIN ER OM CUST

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PRH Remembers

A salute to the

Turkey Bowl A 40-year tradition

by Tony Santini

O

n Thanksgiving Day, I travel to Broad & Jackson in the heart of South Philly to a place known as the “Flat” – at the entrance to South Philadelphia High School – where I cover a tradition that has been going strong for 40 years. Welcome to “The Turkey Bowl.”

Back in the day, on Thanksgiving Eve 1974, two groups of friends from the neighborhood around Epiphany Church, 11th & Jackson, decided to get together for a friendly rough-touch football rivalry on the night before the big day.

The group of multi-sport athletes, who are now considered the founding fathers of the Turkey Bowl, organized their teams – the Raiders and the Bombers – and met up at Southern’s Flat for an early evening game. The legends back then were Joe Laino, Tommy “Bird” Peltz, Nickie Beaty, Jimmy Pilla, Stevie Sweetman, Billy Flaherty, the Cramatola brothers and the Massimi brothers. To round out the two teams, the legends allowed some of the younger neighborhood guys like Vince Tarducci and Tracy Biondo to tag-along and see limited action.

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1

3

2

4

A tradition was born. Now, 40 years later, Vince and Tracy carry that tradition and are passing it on to their children and the children, nephews and friends of the original founding fathers and players who have joined in at various points throughout the years.

The Turkey Bowl is now in its fifth decade. It has lasted through eight U.S. Presidents and three generations of family members. Even the grandchildren of the original 16 players attend the games. Unlike most annual gatherings, Turkey Bowl players don’t call each other before the game. There’s no plan. No RSVPs. Every year on Thanksgiving Day, everyone just shows up at Southern at 10 in the morning to play (or watch) a football game.

For the first 35 years, the teams were always a derivative of the original Raiders or Bombers. Stats say the Bombers hold a one-game advantage in the win column when the organizers modified the format to accommodate the changing demographics of the players. For the past five years, the teams have split into the “Over 40s” and “Under 40s,” which, in itself, is pretty amazing considering that none of the Under 40s were even born when the inaugural game was held. This continues to be a male-dominated game as the men and boys leave their girlfriends, wives, sisters, aunts, mothers and grandmothers to cook the Thanksgiving meal in the warm confines of their South Philly row homes.

The guys, on the other hand, show up no matter what the weather throws at them. prh

1.-Turkey Bowl Mascot, “Fudge” and his friends. | 2.-Group shot of players at the 40th Annual Turkey Bowl at South Philadelphia High School | 3.-Oldest & Youngest players at the Turkey Bowl: Joe Laino and Anthony Romeo | 4.-Turkey Bowl Founding Fathers

I asked Vince and Tracy a few questions about the Turkey Bowl tradition.

SEE THIS AD? Of course you do. And so do thousands of readers throughout the region and across the country.

Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming back.

PRH Advertisers get results.

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Rates as low as $250.

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TS: Do the girlfriends and wives object to you going out on Thanksgiving morning?

V&T: No, they seem happy to get us out of the house for a couple of hours.

The Moms – well that’s another story!

TS: Any serious injuries over the years?

V&T: Only to a guy’s pride when he gets embarrassed by a missed catch or a blown coverage!

TS: What was the most memorable game?

V&T: In 1999, one of our long-time regular players, Tony Guerrera, didn’t show up for the game. No one thought about it but we later found out that he passed away the night before. In 2000, we dedicated the game to him. That was a really tough game to get through.

2014 Turkey Bowl Highlights The Old Heads beat the Young Bucks, 10-7.

participate was the Biondo family who were 10 strong.

Joe “Pop” Laino was the oldest active player at age 67.

The Tarducci Family provided the greatest lineage of athletes with Vince Sr. 53, and his four boys – Vince Jr., 30, Matt, 26, Nick, 17 and Joey, 14.

photos courtesy of Tony Santini

The youngest participant at the day’s event was Anthony Romeo, 7.

Jimmy Romeo tallied the largest family representation with his crew of 12 including siblings, children and nephews.

The second largest clan to

Fudgy the dog served as the game’s honorary mascot.

The best line of the day was uttered when Pop Laino tried to catch a pass that was just beyond the reach

of his outstretched arms.

One of the sidelined players yelled, ‘Hey Pop, you don’t seem to have that same vertical leap that you had 40 years ago!’ To which Pop replied, ‘I also didn’t have this extra 40 pounds that God gave me either!’

Forty years have passed and Vince Tarducci and Tracy Biondo are contemplating another format change for next year’s game. They want the previous year’s MVPs to pick their teams.

Similar to the way the NFL picks its Pro Bowl teams.

Whatever changes take place, some things will remain a constant on Turkey Bowl Thursday.

Old acquaintances will be renewed. New friendships will be formed. And the two-hour, self-imposed time limit will ensure that everyone gets home on time for Thanksgiving Dinner so the Moms don’t get mad.

50 min Signature Massage $50 50 min Signature Hydrating Facial $50 2545 S. Broad St Philadelphia PA 19148 215.467.9666

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BUSINESS NETWORK DIRECTORY

Shop Local / Support Local Automotive Services

Florists & Decorators

Professional Automotive Service 2023 S. Percy St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.551.7559

2515 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.463.5485 www.petalpusherflowers.net

Accutune

_____________________________ Foreign Fix Auto Center, Inc. Foreign Car Repair Specialists 822 Reed St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.755.6880

_____________________________

Building Supplies

Kerrs Building Materials 1528 Washington Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215.735.9964

_____________________________

Computer Repairs & Sales Cybersantech

2436 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 267.603.9749 www.cybersantech.com

_____________________________

Contractors

Fortuna Roofing

814 Jackson St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.468.3925 www.southphillyroofing.com

_____________________________

Entertainment DJ P-Leah Desiree Caldwell

267.253.5221 Desiree@djpleah.com www.djpleah.com

_____________________________ DJ Tom Pipino

Your deejay for all occasions 856.325.8521 tpipino@yahoo.com

_____________________________ DJ Tommy Bertolini

THEDJTOMMYB.COM Washington TWP NJ 856.381.2557

_____________________________

Financial Services Conestoga Bank

2444 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.465. 2230 www.conestogabank.com

_____________________________ United Savings Bank

1510 Packer Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.467.4300 www.unitedsavingsbank.com

The Petal Pusher

Medical Billing Inc. of Delaware Valley

_____________________________

_____________________________

Graphic Design

ten2two creative solutions Ken Cahill 267.408.5501 ken.cahill@ten2twocs.com

_____________________________

Home Improvement Ritner Hardware

1641 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.4927

_____________________________

Home Services

Kim’s Home & Office Cleaning Service 267.207.7664

_____________________________

Insurance Services

Troast-Singley Insurance Agency, LLC Kim Troast-Singley 2700 S. 18th Street Philadelphia, PA 19145

_____________________________

Jewelers

Olivieri Jewelers

2523 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-336-1130 www.dolivierijewelers.com

_____________________________

Legal Services

Perry deMarco, Jr. Esq.

1500 Market St. Suite 4100 Philadelphia, PA 19102 215.563.6100 PerrydeMarcoJr@gmail.com

_____________________________

Medical

Dr. Denise D’Adamo DC

2432 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.2999 www.Drdenisetdadamo.com

_____________________________ Marconi Medical, LLC

7-week Phlebotomy Courses 438 Ganttown Rd. Sewell, NJ 08080 856.723.9599 www.marconimedical.com

Adelina Taraborelli 1533 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.551.6080

Pennsport Physical Therapy 2101 S. Columbus Blvd.

Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.467.4431 www.pennsportpt.com

_____________________________

Professional Organizations South Philadelphia Business Association

Now accepting members!

215.336.1138

_____________________________

Real Estate

Leonardo Realty

2136 S. 16th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.7944 Ciampittiventure@aol.com

_____________________________

Restaurants

L’Oceano Ristorante

833 Haddon Ave Collingswood, NJ 08108 856.833.9888 www.loceanoristorante.com

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Security Services

SPI Security Services Inc.

2440 Federal St. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215.338.0800 www.spissecurityservices.com

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Spa Services Bella Angel

158 N. 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 856.227.7774 www.bella-angel.com

_____________________________ Hot Hands Studio & Spa 2545 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.467.9666 www.hothandsphilly.com

Specialty Foods & Catering Big Nick’s Cold Cuts & Italian Specialties

1311 W. Moyamensing Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148

(Between 13th & Broad on Moyamensing)

215.952.2500

_____________________________ Cannuli’s Sausage

1640 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.7997

_____________________________ Dad’s Stuffing

1615 W. Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.3237 www.dadstuffings.com

_____________________________ Frangelli’s Bakery

9th & Ritner Sts. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.271.7878 www.frangellis.com

_____________________________

Travel Services

Travel with Pam Draper

Full Service Agent 856.956.3532 TravelWithPamDraper@gmail.com www.TravelWithPamDraper.com

_____________________________ VacationWired Travel Agency 1334 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 215.735.2222 www.vacationwired.com

Join the PRH Business Network!

Call Carol at 215.462.9777 or info@gohomephilly.com

PRH Remembers

Panagiotis Vasilios “Pete” Dovas 1951- November 5, 2014

Owner, Penrose Diner A life that touches others goes on forever.

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gohomephilly.com

RowHome Remembers

In My Life In memory of Mark S. Romano March 15, 1954 - November 17, 2014 There are places I remember All my life though some have changed Some forever not for better Some have gone and some remain All these places have their moments With lovers and friends I still can recall Some are dead and some are living In my life I’ve loved them all But of all these friends and lovers There is no one compares with you And these memories lose their meaning When I think of love as something new Though I know I’ll never lose affection For people and things that went before I know I’ll often stop and think about them In my life I love you more Though I know I’ll never lose affection For people and things that went before I know I’ll often stop and think about them In my life I love you more In my life I love you more Song by The Beatles from the album Rubber Soul Lyrics by John Lennon & Paul McCartney

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9

The Leak D E S S E R P a Jackson

By Dorette Rot

I

don’t get DIYers. My idea of a home improvement project is buying a fluffy down comforter and mocha-colored accent pillows in a variety of geometric shapes.

Words like rehab, refurb, rewire and restore make me cringe.

Don’t hand me a paintbrush, a Phillips head or grout. I have no interest and little inclination to google a makeover on my laptop.

I love to vacuum, Pledge and Swiffer. And the scent of Gain inspires me to wash loads of laundry. Tasks like these help me relax. Stop the wheels in my head from spinning out of control.

Dawn hates laundry. Says it’s a side effect of managing a drycleaners in her early years. ‘A human hamper,’ she called it.

When it comes time for Dawn to wind down, she whips up some amazing meals. Veal Picante.

Chicken Marsala. Stuffed Peppers. And that’s just for lunch!

She is less of a Do-It-Yourselfer than I am. But if something has to break, burst or crumble, it better happen at Dawn’s house.

We can work, clean and eat in the same space with minimal

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by Dorette Rota Jackson

disruption of our daily routine.

You can imagine our reaction to a leaky ceiling in Dawn’s dining room. After the first few droplets fell upon our workspace, we did the same thing we do when we get a flat tire. We stare at each other and make bold statements like ‘We have a flat.’ Or, in this case, ‘The ceiling is leaking.’

And since the dining room is directly below the bathroom, there are a variety of possibilities when it comes to identifying the problem. The shower. The toilet. The sink. The tub. And an endless array of twisted copper pipes that hide beyond the crown-molded walls and ceilings of your shiny swiffered floors.

Anyone who has experienced the “covert” leak knows the ordeal that lies ahead. A contractor has to bust things up in search of the source. So much for Gilda’s tantalizing tilapia dish Dawn couldn’t wait to make for dinner.

Nope. The dust left no chance for anything edible during this home repair. The ominous crater in the ceiling loomed like a black hole of destruction. A villainous smiley face mocking all attempts to locate the leak that kept leaking. For days. Then weeks. Drip.

Drip. Drip. Through brand new gohomephilly.com

sheetrock and layers of smooth spackle. Through coat after coat of flat white Finneran & Haley.

The ceiling came down and went up so many times, she opted to live with the rubble rather than risk another renovation.

“Water is a sign of emotion,” Dawn repeats every time something wet breaks. “There are leaks and floods and typhoons because the universe is in a 9,” she reminds me every day.

“Crazy things happen in a 9,” she says. “They break. Or end.

Or fall apart. Physical and emotional.” The Black Hole wasn’t just an interruption of life. It was a sign of the unrest around us.

“Just turn on the news,” she barks from behind the mop we keep next to the china closet.

For me, the Black Hole means no Food Channel lunches.

No lump crab cake fritters. No carmelized yam balls. No break from Dawn’s incessant whining. I know it’s selfish but my ‘fight or flight’ reaction kicks into high gear. I’m outta here.

But there is no escape. My cell phone rings. Every 10 minutes.

‘Remember my furry art-deco throw rug?’ She screams into the phone. I mumble ‘yes.’

‘Ruined!’ she hollers. ‘It’s buried

under three feet of spackle dust and duck-taped to the hallway floor!’ And my designer Ralph Lauren Luxury Towel Collection? Dropcloths!’

I tried to ignore the phone. But she’s relentless. She resorts to show & tell and facetimes me.

Takes me on a walking tour of the destruction. Always ending with a close-up of the Black Hole.

The images on my phone are rocking and rolling so much, I feel nauseous. ‘You are triggering my anxiety,’ I tell her. Wrong thing to say to someone whose house is under construction.

‘I’m losing my mind over here and you have the nerve to talk about your anxiety?’ Her face contorts on my phone screen.

Two pairs of reading glasses on the top of her head. A few spackle dust hives on her neck.

I pretend I can’t hear her.

‘Something’s wrong with the connection. I’m losing the signal,’ I say as I hit the red button to end the call.

I grab the Swiffer and surf the channels for CSI reruns.

Dr. Phil’s face pops up on my TV screen. Hmmm. I wonder.

Is he man enough to handle a facetime call from Dawn?

Nope. Not in a 9 year. prh

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