QVNA provides community stewardship, advocacy and service to help improve quality of life for Queen Village residents.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS (2023–2024 TERM)
OFFICERS
Cait Allen – PRESIDENT
Chris Mullen – VICE PRESIDENT
Matt Atkins – SECRETARY
Philip Holzhauer – TREASURER
DIRECTORS
Andrew Jarrah
Mae Johnson
Patricia Kucker
Amanda Maize
Mike McPhilmy
Micah Shapiro Rich Villa Kim Vo
EMERITUS DIRECTORS
Kathy Conway
Inez Green
Michael Hauptman
Marian Buczek
SING. DANCE. PLAY.
Meet Your Neighbor Contributors
QVNA sincerely appreciates the time and talent of the volunteers who helped create this issue of the QV Crier
Volunteers Volunteers
Jack Miller is a relative newcomer to Queen Village. He spends his time away from work reading, writing, and listening to music in various public spots throughout the Village.
Daniel Lidon has lived in Philadelphia for nearly 20 years and Queen Village for a decade. He works as a commercial photographer and filmmaker. In his spare time, he can be found in Mario Lanza Park with his dog Ziggy.
Nicole Maley moved here in early 2022, so she is relative new to Queen Village but already considers it home. By day, she works as a director of media for a New York City marketing agency; by night and on the weekends, she’s an avid walker, amateur historian, and diehard 76ers fan.
Maxine Mayer has been a Queen Village neighbor since 2004. After retiring from a fulfilling nursing career, Mayer pursued her love of photography while
volunteering for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Red Cross and QV Crier.
Maureen Brady Weir has been a Queen Village neighbor since 2000 and a member of The Friends of Moyamensing Point since 2008. A communications director by trade, she is also a certified Pennsylvania Master Naturalist.
Hilary Young is a Queen Village mom and owner of Hilary Young creative, a brand strategy and marketing consultancy.
Michele O’Brien is a Certified Aromatherapist and owner of Full Moon Blends in Queen Village, where she’s resided since 2017 with her husband and son. O'Brien earned a bachelor of arts in journalism from New York University.
Cait Allen is the president of the Queen Village Neighbors Association (QVNA), moving to Queen Village in 2019.
Louis Bartholomew is the executive director of the Queen Village Neighbors Association (QVNA). An avid urban planning nerd, coffee shop enthusiast, and architecture buff, he loves working with neighbors to make Queen Village an even greater place to live. ■
Philadelphia Gardens, Inc.
Native Species · Water Features · Paving · Fencing · Lighting · Irrigation · Container Gardens by Toni Ann Flanigan, Designer, Horticulturalist // 215.951.9193 // www.philadelphiagardens.com
Mary Louise Curtis Branch
Letter from the President
By Cait Allen, QVNA President
Winter is here!
Finally, after one of the more bizarre fall weather patterns that I can remember.
As someone who loves it when the temperatures drop and would rather reach for a scarf and gloves than shorts, I’m thrilled that we’re finally into the colder weather months.
For those who are already counting down the days until they will return to the beach, fear not! There is no shortage
of festivities to enjoy during this time of year to help you pass the time.
The DiBruno’s Holiday Market at 9th and Christian featuring local vendors and businesses is just a short stroll from the Village. The Philly Cheese School (701 S. 9th Street) provides a unique culinary experience that will make you love cheese even more than you already do—it’s possible!
Cozy up with a cappuccino in one of the several coffee shops lining the neighborhood and enjoy some people watching. Want something more active? Check
out the First Responders Hockey Association and support our hometown team, and league champions, the Philadelphia Police Department hockey club.
Learn about all this and more in this latest issue of the Crier !
However you choose or choose not to celebrate this season, wishing you a festive, safe, and healthy winter!
Fun Winter Activities in Queen Village and Philly
By Jack Miller
Photos by Maxine Mayer
With the winter months fast approaching, the weeks begin to feel more and more hectic as the weather gets colder. Amid all the holiday shuffle, it may be difficult to find some sense of wintertime peace during the season. Luckily for all of us looking for outlets to relax, eat, drink, and be merry, Queen Village and South Philly have a slate of fun (and free) wintertime events to enjoy. Whether you are looking for some uniquely South Philly gifts for your loved ones or to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, there are many local events to take advantage of this winter.
If you’re looking for a festive shopping experience with a Philadelphia-flare, look no further than the Di Bruno Holiday Market (@dibrunobros on Instagram). Lo -
cated a short walk from Queen Village on the 9th Street Italian Market Piazza, this holiday bazaar brings local vendors and businesses from throughout the city to sell and celebrate the changing seasons in South Philly. The market, which will have food, shopping, and the occasional musical act, runs from December 13–24. Like the idea of a holiday market but finding the weather too brisk to leave the Village? Head House Square, in conjunction with Sisterly Love Collective (@sisterlylovephilly on Instagram), hosts a holiday version of their year-round farmers’ markets during the winter months.
Philadelphia has a history of local, community-driven, bright-light holiday events. Places like Boathouse Row and Franklin Square Park are always first to come to mind, but in recent years, South
13th Street has hosted one of the city’s premier decoration and light shows for the winter months. Miracle on South 13th Street (@themiracleonsouth13street on Instagram), as it’s come to be known, has taken over the 1600 block of 13th Street for the last two decades. In recent years, community members have begun to sell hot chocolate and apple cider to warm up those admiring the scenery. This annual neighborhood display lights from Thanksgiving weekend through the holidays. Lucky weekend visitors might even have a chance to meet Santa himself! No list of winter activities would be complete without mention of the Philadelphia Mummers Parade. Taking place every New Year’s Day, this parade shuts down Broad Street and Washington Avenue as thousands of costumed parade-
goers from over 40 Mummers societies throughout the region take to the streets. This century-old tradition is a Philadelphia staple and is considered the oldest folk parade in the country. No matter where you find yourself in the city, if you head to Broad Street on January 1, you’re likely to see thousands of brightly and elaborately costumed Philadelphians strutting their way to the Mummers Museum on 2nd Street for a celebration that lasts long into the night. More information on the Mummers and their goings-on can be found at www.mummersmuseum.org.
While South Philly’s unique winter activities reflect the diversity and eccentricities of our neighborhoods, the rest of the city offers much to do throughout the colder months. The German Christmas Village at City Hall and Love Park will return this year, opening from Thanksgiving to December 24. Vendors, ice skating rinks, and beer gardens take over Penn Square for the month of December. Franklin Park will again host their Winter in Franklin Square holiday village this year where visitors can watch the park’s hundred-bulb light show or enjoy seasonal food and drink around the park’s heated fire pits. Winter in Franklin square begins this November and will run through February of next year. ■
Embark on a Journey of Discovery at Independence Seaport Museum
By Nicole Maley
Photos by Maxine Mayer
About a mile from the stretch of museums and landmarks around Independence Mall lies a hidden gem on the Delaware River: the Independence Seaport Museum. Where else in Philadelphia can you enjoy a stunning waterfront view while poring over 10,000 artifacts on the city’s maritime history after touring not one but two historical United States seacrafts? The unique location and positioning of the museum is one of the things that president and chief executive officer, Peter Seibert, loves most about it.
“The story of this region is the river and the city’s connections to its waterways,” says Seibert. “Other museums will talk about specific periods, times, and battles. This museum gets to dance across history to tell a holistic story of the Delaware River. It also makes us a museum where the stories never stop!”
The Seaport Museum is changing and evolving right there with the Delaware River, having embarked on a multiyear redesign project. In March 2024, it opened a new main entrance, allowing direct access from the popular Spruce Street Harbor Park. The new entry point
now faces the museum’s core attractions: the 19th century cruiser USS Olympia and the World War II-era submarine Becuna, both docked along the Delaware riverfront walkway. Along with the upgraded entrance came the launch of a new introductory exhibit to the museum.
“You think we’re just about one ship [the cruiser Olympia], but we actually do a lot of different, cool stuff,” Seibert explains. “Each area in this front section now touches upon a different aspect of our story; we’re setting up the visitor for what they will see in the rest of the museum.”
The welcoming entry exhibit provides curators the chance to display unique objects from their collection that haven’t been showcased in years. This includes a “tin man” built by dock workers at the Navy Ship Yard, a massive propeller blade from a ship that originated in Philadelphia, and a grand 19th century ship figurehead sculpted by local artist William Rush that somehow ended up at a Lancaster County bar before finding its forever home at the museum. A whole room is dedicated to the famous Commodore (later Admiral) Dewey, who gave
the order for the USS Olympia to attack the Spanish at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898. That decisive win by the U.S. Navy led to the annexation of the Philippines as a U.S. colony until their independence after World War II. A special exhibit on the Battle of Manila Bay created in partnership with the Philadelphia Filipino community is also now showing on the USS Olympia through the end of 2025.
Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy, and visitors should look for an even more comprehensive naval collection in 2025, along with a new gallery for their incredibly popular model ship collection.
“The kid in everyone loves a model ship,” Seibert adds. But to his great pride, the museum goes beyond just U.S. naval history and covers a wide variety of topics in their collection, such as a special exhibit on the history of African Americans along the Delaware from the 18th century all the way to the 1960s. They have plans to expand this exhibit to modern day by 2026. Seibert values the responsibility of communicating the true historical record within the museum’s careful curation of displays.
“The public sees museums as truth tellers. We work really hard to do that, and we also have a vast collection of artifacts,” he says. “You can come here and really immerse yourself in the history of the city.”
The Independence Seaport Museum was developed in 1960, born out of a desire of collectors who were passionate about maritime history. The focus narrowed over the years from world maritime history to the still relatively large scope of the Delaware river and its estuaries, which passes through five states. The museum also bounced around to various locations in Philadelphia before moving to their current home on the riverfront in 1995.
“We were supposed to be part of a wave of museums that came down to the waterfront,” Seibert adds with a laugh. “We were the only ones who came though.”
As Philadelphians know, the riverfront is a perpetual work in progress, but the nearby residents remain enthusiastic about its potential, especially with the upcoming I-95 cap project and growth of the Spruce Street Harbor area. The
Seaport museum’s development and expansion align nicely with the future of the Delaware River waterfront. Visitors from Queen Village (only a 20-minute walk!) can watch the progress while touring the primary museum and two historic seacrafts. Parents can also participate in the museum’s many programs for children and teens.
The Seaport Boat Shop is a unique project for teens, as it partners with local schools to boost STEM development by teaching basic engineering to students across several grade levels. Another popular summer program, River Ambassadors, gives high school students a holistic education on the Delaware River and sustainability along with the opportunity to work in various parts of the museum, including the Boat Shop and Learning Lab.
Winter activities for families abound at the museum with the Schooner Diligence, a massive replica ship perfect for playing pirates and patriots, as well as River Alive, an exhibit on local waterways with tons of interactive elements. Seibert guarantees that not only will the kids have a blast, but the parents will learn something new.
“Even if you’ve lived here your whole life and know everything there is to know about Philadelphia, I bet there’s something here you’ve never seen before.” ■
Unite for Safety. Empower for Change.
By Cait Allen
Photos by Lyrical Lenses Photography
On Saturday, October 23, QVNA, Sweat Fitness, and the South Street Mini Station co-hosted a self-empowerment workshop lead by retired mixed martial arts (MMA) champion and former Bella Vistan, Jamie Miller. The goal of the event was to provide participants with practical skills and resources to help themselves or a loved one take control of a difficult situation.
Miller began the workshop by sharing her own story of escaping an abusive relationship to provide a better life for her and her daughter. She set the tone for the afternoon by explaining how perseverance and positivity are powerful forces when faced with insurmountable odds.
Next was a question-and-answer (Q&A) session with the Philadelphia Police Department, led by South Street Commanding Officer, Lt. Steve Ricci. One of the most frequently asked questions was when to call 911. “Anytime you’re in
a situation where you don’t feel safe or something feels off. Trust your ‘spidey sense,’” Lt. Ricci said. “A lot of people have told me that they don’t feel comfortable calling because their situation doesn’t feel like an emergency, and they don’t want to 'bother' us. But 911 calls are triaged, and we can only respond to the things we know about.”
Lt. Ricci also shared safety tips based on his own experiences. “It’s safer not to talk on the phone when you’re walking around, especially late at night. My wife is a nurse and feels safer if she calls me walking to her car after a shift. But it’s better to stay off the phone and pay attention to your surroundings. Keep your head on a swivel.”
After the Q&A, Chief Public Safety
Director, Adam Geer, and Representative Mary Isaacson discussed resources available to domestic violence victims through the city and the state.
The highlight of the workshop was when Miller, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, demonstrated various jiu-jitsu techniques that can be used if you find yourself face-to-face with an assailant. “Jiujitsu is made to defend against attacks from a larger opponent by using leverage and weight distribution to gain the upper hand,” she explained. “First, find your base. Plant your feet so you’re harder to move around. Then look for weak points, like thumbs, where you have your best chance to break free from someone.”
Volunteers tested several techniques and one by one were able to escape each scenario when following Miller’s instructions, even against a much larger opponent!
The workshop concluded with a raffle drawing that raised almost $1,000 for local domestic violence victims. The prizes ranged from a free hotel room and spa session to a Queen Village-themed basket and a helmet signed by Eagles Hallof-Famer Brian Dawkins.
A huge thank you to the event’s sponsors, Target and Councilman Mark Squilla, in addition to the numerous businesses who contributed to the raffle or helped raise money for the cause, including New Wave Café, Farina Di Vita, Lightbox Café, Full Moon Blends, Mahalo Hawaiian BBQ, Luv on Fire, Halycon Floats, and Loews Hotel. ■
Mario Lanza Dog Park – A Tail of Community Connection
By Maureen Brady Weir
As you stroll through Mario Lanza Park, you can’t help but appreciate its beauty—towering trees, lush greenery, and inviting benches make it a true urban oasis. But there’s more to the park than its natural charm; it feels alive. Conversations flow, connections are made, and the warm spirit of neighborly camaraderie fills the air. And at the heart of this connection, tucked in one corner, lies the Mario Lanza Dog Park.
Run by a dedicated group of volunteers known as the Friends of Mario Lanza Dog Park (MLDP), MLDP has its own mission, objectives, and goals. Their commitment ensures that this slice of the park remains a vibrant hangout for dogs and their caretakers, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond its gates. Yes, it’s an ideal spot to let your dog enjoy some outdoor playtime, but at the end of the day, it’s about more than that. It’s a gathering place where neighbors connect, form friendships and share their love for the neighborhood.
The core volunteers behind the dog park include Greg Lee, Kelsey Lilyquist, Brendon Lynch, Kate Vail, Tina O’Donnel, and Terri Pawelski. This group, a blend of longtime residents and newer faces, is united by a shared passion for making the park a welcoming space for both dogs and people. Contrary to popular belief, the City does not proactively maintain many
public spaces, including the dog park. Instead, dedicated neighborhood volunteers handle everything from keeping the lights on and completing repairs to taking out the trash and more. They do it because they care—recognizing that the dog park is woven into the fabric of our neighborhood and plays an essential role in strengthening our community.
In addition to their ongoing maintenance efforts, the volunteers organize community clean-up days and host fantastic social events, such as the park’s Annual Howloween Dog Costume Contest and the recently introduced Yappy Hours at nearby Lucky’s Last Chance. They also support and collaborate with local busi-
nesses to offer discounts to MLDP members and provide dog etiquette classes to new dog caretakers.
Managing volunteer efforts for the park also involves a serious commitment to the future, ensuring it remains a great community spot for years to come. For the Friends of MLDP, this involves working with the Friends of Mario Lanza Park to fix and restore the park’s water source—an effort that needs support from the City. They’re also planning to resurface the grounds, put in new gates, and replace some benches. The recent addition of a new dog park rules sign has already helped improve the overall experience, but there’s still a lot to do to ensure the park remains a great place for everyone to enjoy.
If you want to learn more about these efforts or get involved, follow MLDP on Instagram (@mariolanzadogpark) and Facebook, or reach out via email at mariolanzadogpark@qvna.org. You can also become a member for just $50 per household annually, with proceeds supporting volunteer initiatives. Beyond the practical benefits, membership also allows you to be part of something special and connect with others who share a love for their pups and their neighborhood.
So, the next time you’re strolling through the park, be sure to stop, sit, and stay a while to appreciate the strong sense of community that the MLDP brings to Queen Village. ■
Photo by Maxine Mayer
Southwark Soup Kitchen History
By Daniel Lidon
Taking care of your family, friends, and neighbors has long been built into the structure of our lives here in Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love has deep roots in community care and mutual aid, a tradition that continues to this day with prominent organizations, such as Philabundance and the Share Food Program. In addition to these larger food banks, there are smaller initiatives, such as the South Philadelphia Community Fridge (their nearest community fridge is located at 9th and Ellsworth). Despite this citywide effort to combat food insecurity, the roots of this movement can be traced back to Queen Village in the early
19th century when the Southwark Soup Society became Philadelphia’s first formal charitable food organization.
The Southwark Soup Society emerged during a time when many in the city faced severe food insecurity, with the need growing during the cold winter months. The Society is tucked around a quiet side street, near 2nd and Queen, and it pioneered the burgeoning crusade to address hunger; it predated many of the modern initiatives we know today. Its mission was simple but impactful: supply soup and bread to the “deserving poor,” during the coldest time of the year when work and resources were scarce.
By 1865, the Southwark Soup Society’s model had inspired the creation of at least eight other soup societies throughout Philadelphia, including the Moyamensing Soup Society and the succinctly named “Philadelphia Society for Supplying the Poor with Soup,” which was located in Green’s Court behind the modern-day Acme that is located in Society Hill. These organizations formed a vital safety net for the city’s most vulnerable, long before social welfare systems had been established.
Although the Southwark Soup Society only operated during the winter, its members remained active throughout the year, meeting periodically for planning and maintenance. Donations were collected, investments were made in properties to help cover operating costs, and subscriptions were solicited from the community to ensure the society’s survival. The meticulous minutes taken dur-
ing their meetings detail everything from payments to butchers and bakers to the possibility of constructing a bathhouse for the poor in 1880—an indication that the Society’s mission may have expanded beyond soup distribution.
Over the course of several decades, the Southwark Soup Society adapted to the changing needs of the city. In 1949, it merged with the Union Benevolent Association. This union marked the end of an era for the original society but ensured the continuity of its legacy.
Today, the spirit of the Southwark Soup Society can still be felt through the many organizations and community-wide endeavors that revolve around alleviating hunger. From the early days of localized soup and bread distribution to more sweeping and widespread programs, Philadelphia’s commitment to helping its citizens has been a consistent and defining feature of its history. The Southwark Soup Society is a testament to the power of local action and Queen Village’s enduring value of community care. If you are interested in volunteering or donating this holiday season, please email info@qvna.org for more information. ■
Ice hockey has been a beloved local pastime since the Philadelphia Flyers joined the National Hockey League in 1967—so much so that several minor and amateur leagues have followed, including one featuring Philly’s finest: the First Responders Hockey Association (FRHA).
In its second season, the league has 10 teams from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York composed of first responders, such as firefighters, EMTs, and police officers.
Our hometown team, the Philadelphia Police Department Hockey Club (PPD Hockey), consists of 25 officers from around the region, including the South Street Mini Station’s own, Frank Roesner. Roesner, a Fishtown native, has been playing hockey since he was a kid. (Shout out to the North Catholic Falcons varsity team!)
In addition to the regular season which runs from October to April, members of the FRHA have been playing in charity tournaments for more than a decade to raise money for a variety of causes, such as breast cancer research and a survivor fund for families of fallen firefighters and police officers.
“The league games are fun, but I prefer the charity games,” said Roesner. “It means more to get to wear a jersey and support a cause. Especially games that honor fallen officers. Anything we can do to remember their name.”
One such tournament is Cops for K.O.P.S., an annual event played in Her-
by Frank Roesner
shey (now in its 19th year) that raises money for the families of police officers from Pennsylvania and New York City who were killed in the line of duty. (K.O.P.S. stands for “Keep Our Pipers Silent,” a reference to the music traditionally played during a police officer’s funeral.) The next Cops for K.O.P.S game is scheduled for February 1, 2025, at the Giant Center.
Other tournaments have taken the team across the country, including Fenway Park (Boston), Heinz Field (Pittsburgh), Lake Placid, and Florida for the Battle of the Badges: the an -
nual survivors charity event hosted by the Orlando Firefighters Hockey Club. (PPD Hockey has won the tournament multiple times.) The team has even been invited to play abroad in Montreal and Switzerland!
PPD Hockey began this season as reigning champions having won last year’s Tier 2 bracket with a 7 to 2 victory against New Jersey Fire. Fingers crossed for a repeat!
Want to know more about the FRHA, including a schedule of upcoming games? Follow firstresponderhockeyassoc on Facebook or Instagram. ■
Photo
Volunteer Spotlight
Meet The New Board
On November 7, 2024, board elections were held for the 2025–2026 term. The QVNA Board of Directors establishes the association’s strategic direction and budget and determines our key priorities, programs, and services. Board members work collaboratively to address issues and concerns of Queen Villagers. Each is an at-large community leader, representing the whole of our community.
President Cait Allen (2025–2026)
Vice President Chris Mullen (2025–2026)
Directors
Kevin Farrell (2025–2026)
Andrew Jarrah (2024–2025)
Mae Johnson (2025–2026)
Patricia Kucker (2024–2025)
Dennis Mahoney (2025–2026)
Amanda Maize (2024–2025)
Micah Shapiro (2024–2025)
Rich Villa (2024–2025)
Kim Vo (2025–2026)
Thank You for Your Board Service
As a volunteer-driven nonprofit, QVNA salutes two neighbors whose board terms ended in 2024.
Treasurer Philip Holzhauer (2024–2025)
Secretary Matt Atkins (2024–2025)
The QVNA Board of Directors establishes the association’s strategic direction and budget and determines our key priorities, programs, and services. Board members work collaboratively to address issues and concerns of Queen Villagers. Each is an at-large community leader, representing the whole of our community. ■
Thank you, Mike McPhilmy, for your volunteer contributions as a board director. McPhilmy has served as both a director and Treasurer on the QVNA board. He has also been a stalwart leader and presence on the Finance and Grants Committees, shaping QVNA's financial direction and contributing to over $150,000 in community grants.
Dan Orr was elected to the board as a director in 2022 and served until summer 2024. Upon his board approval, he was responsible for overseeing the candidate nomination process and board elections. Thank you for your service to QVNA, Dan! ■
Queen Village Holiday Gift Giving Guide
By Michele O’Brien & Jamie Bischoff
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Don’t stress over your holiday shopping list this year. Grab your favorite scarf and take a stroll through Queen Village, one of Philly’s best shopping districts, for all your gift-giving needs. Chock full of independent stores, charming boutiques, and family-run businesses, these neighborhood shops offer plenty of gift ideas for everyone on your list.
For the Music Lover
A neighborhood staple, check out Repo Records at 506 South Street for a great selection of new and used music, as well as decorative pins, posters, and other musicrelated gifts. Around the corner sits Cratediggaz Records at 711 S. 4th Street, a hotbed for hip-hop culture and art. The shop offers a wide array of rare releases and other items, including vintage clothing.
For the Art Lover
South Street Art Mart at 530 S. 4th Street has an eclectic range of products created by more than 150 independent artists. Pop culture themes and icons adorn everything from clothing, jewelry, and accessories to artwork, toys, ornaments, home dé -
cor, and more. It also carries a selection of adults-only art prints. Eyes Gallery at 327 South Street is a neighborhood gem offering many practical gifts, such as clothing with an artistic flair, including socks and zippered bags in a host of fabrics, patterns, and colors. It is equally hard to resist their unique pottery, plates, and candles.
For Those with a Sweet Tooth
You will be greeted by the scent of freshbaked cookies at Sam Shaw’s Treatery at 306 South Street, which sells individual
treats through party-sized trays. Munch on a tasty “crookie” (i.e., croissant cookie) while browsing a selection of thoughtfully curated gourmet food and home goods that also make great host/ess gifts. You can also treat the chocolate lover in your life to a small-batch creation from Aurora Grace Chocolates at 517 S. 5th Street, which is just on the cusp of Society Hill. This local chocolatier combines ethically sourced raw materials to create a modern take on sweets, including bonbons and bark bursting with unique flavor.
For the Nature Lover
For the health and wellness enthusiast, check out Full Moon Blends at 617 S. 4th Street. A variety of aromatic skincare products and candles are hand-blended right on premise using essential oils and other all-natural ingredients. Snag a holiday basket with self-care goodies or take a class and blend your own vegan-friendly custom spray, lotion, or oil for that special someone. Look no further than Walter Pine at 729 S. 4th Street if you are hunting for artfully designed flowers and plants. Offering a variety of gorgeous arrange -
ments, they also have related gifts, such as elegant watering cans, and fragrant soaps, shampoos, and herbal perfumes. There is also an appealing book selection, colorful socks, and gourmet food items such as olive oil and exotic chocolate bars.
For the Vintage Hound
There is no shortage of vintage shops in Philly, much less in Queen Village. Here are just a few to check out this holiday season. Browse a carefully curated collection of cozy sweaters and other vintage clothing at B-Bop Vintage at 619 S. 4th Street. This adorable shop offers a nice range of styles and sizes of pre-loved clothing, jewelry, belts, and other accessories spanning the 80s, 90s, and other beloved decades. Retrospect at 508 South Street has an extensive selection of vintage men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, as well as a large sampling of lightly used home goods from artwork and glassware to accent pieces and small furniture. Be sure to visit Sweet Peel at 744 S. 4th Street for an incredible mix of pristine, yet approachable vintage, including fringed leather, corsets, and jewelry. They also offer styling services, costume design, and rentals. Finally, check out Noni at 760 S. 4th Street for a great selection of size-accessible vintage and retro clothing, as well as homewares, including books, vinyl records, toys, and more!
For Those Hankering for the Handmade
If you are looking for unique gift ideas for multiple people, check out the colorful offerings from Bodie at 520 S. 4th Street, which has thoughtfully selected home goods, pantry items, stationery, gifts, and more from independent makers and artists. You are sure to find something for everyone there! For the lover of the bling, visit Bario Neal at 524 S. 5th Street to shop their acclaimed collection of handcrafted, ethically sourced jewelry. Bario Neal offers celebration rings, bracelets, and other fine jewelry and can create bespoke, custom designs by appointment.
For Lovers of Unique Home Décor
An intimate marketplace of vintage home décor, Design Nest Studio at 713 S. 4th Street is curated by the owner of Juju Salon, which still offers organic professional hair products and services. For the Goths in your life or fans of all things spooky, check out DreamEerie at 623 South Street. This unique shop offers home décor with a macabre slant like coffins and creepy sculptures as well as Victorianstyled mirrors and other furnishings. For the sustainable sort, be sure to check out Everland at 529 S. 4th Street to shop their collection of sustainable living home and self-care products. To recycle and reuse,
they also offer lightly used and carefully vetted toys, books and kids’ clothes based on life stages.
For the Fashionista
Urban Princess at 620 S. 4th Street is a gallery full of reasonably priced fashion finds, such as dresses, shirts, and accessories. Shop regular store hours or check out their weekly Facebook Live videos for the latest additions, including everyday indulgences (e.g., jewelry and fun hostess gifts: wine glasses, candles, and more). If you know your loved one’s shoe size, head to BUS STOP shoe boutique at 727 S. 4th Street. Located in historic Fabric Row,
BUS STOP has curated a selection of some of the most popular designer shoe brands for women. This premier shoe boutique also features limited-edition BUS STOP X brand shoes created by the owner.
For the Eclectic Sort
A neighborhood anchor, Moon & Arrow at 742 S. 4th Street is an environmentally conscious boutique offering a wide selection of handcrafted jewelry, culinary treats, and other goods from local artisans. They even offer gifts for children, including clothing, puzzles, and bath toys. Merrygold at 721 S. 4th Street offers a stunning range of gifts, accessories, and more. Meander through the whimsical place to draw inspiration for the person who is hard to shop for. The store opens into Wallflower Paper & Party at 723 S. 4th Street, where you can find a variety of cards, celebratory candles, and other party supplies.
For the Bookworm
Book lovers are in for a treat in Queen Village, with several perusable shops dotted around the neighborhood. Head House Books at 619 S. 2nd Street offers tons of new hardcover and paperback books. They also have a broad selection of related gift items, such as bookmarks, journals, and coloring books. Brickbat
Books at 709 4th Street is a quaint shop offering a mix of new and used hardcover and paperback books. They also offer gift certificates if you cannot decide what to purchase. Mostly Books at 529 Bainbridge Street lives up to its name. This multi-roomed shop offers not only an abundance of used books but also other entertainment, such as CDs, DVDs and even VHS tapes.
Knowledge and Experience Combined with Your Best Interests in Mind
For Your Favorite Four-Legged Friend
Do not forget the furriest part of your family this holiday season, especially if they aren’t on the naughty list. Ham + Bone at 715 E. Passyunk Avenue not only sells pet food, treats, and toys but offers a range of grooming services to get your favorite furry friend ready for the holidays! Doggie Style Pets at 715 S. 2nd Street also offers dog and cat grooming services, as well as food, collars, and a dazzling array of colorful toys that will make you want to roll on the floor and play with them right now! This list may be long, but it is only a small sampling of the dozens of retail shops sprinkled throughout the Village that offer distinct and often handmade items. By shopping local this holiday season, you will discover a variety of unique gifts suitable for everyone on your list while supporting our small business community. ■
C: 267-225-3678
O: (888) 397-7352 EXT.# 1523
E: deidre@deidrequinn.com
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Old Swedes Holiday Events
By Daniel Lidon
This holiday season, our community is gearing up for a series of festive events that offer both rich cultural heritage and the chance to give back. From an enchanting Lucia Fest to a traditional Scandinavian market and a toy drive for local children, there is something for everyone to enjoy and support.
Lucia Fest and St. Eric’s Fair
The Lucia Fest is a beloved tradition that brings the story of St. Lucia to life, honoring the saint known as the bearer of light during the dark Swedish winters. (Queen Village was named after Queen Christina of Sweden!) This year’s pageant will be performed in our community’s historic church, Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Episcopal Church—a structure built by Swedish settlers over 300 years ago, making the experience even more authentic. The pageant, set for Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8, will feature three showtimes each day at 2pm, 3:30pm, and 5pm. Audiences will witness a beautiful display of live candles and traditional Swedish music, creating a serene and uplifting ambiance. The event also serves as a fundraiser to support the upkeep of this cherished historic building, and tickets are available at www.old-swedes.org.
Complementing the Lucia Fest is St. Eric’s Fair, a lively Scandinavian Christmas bazaar. Open before and after each showtime, the fair offers an opportunity to browse imported goods, sample traditional foods, and enjoy festive drinks. This delightful addition allows visitors to take home a piece of Scandinavian holiday charm.
Photo by Daniel Lidon
Toy Drive for Snyder Avenue Congregation
Adding to the holiday spirit is a communitywide toy drive organized by Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) in support of the Snyder Avenue Congregation (SACC), a multiethnic, multi-congregational church in South Philadelphia that serves many refugee and immigrant families. Neighbors are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages by December 13. Volunteers from the congregation will wrap and distribute these
gifts, ensuring that local children experience the joy of the season. This initiative provides a way for the community to come together and brighten the holidays for families in need.
With these events, our community not only celebrates its unique heritage but also embodies the season’s spirit of generosity. Whether you are attending the Lucia Fest, browsing at St. Eric’s Fair, or donating a gift for a child in need, there are plenty of ways to experience the joy of the holidays in and around Queen Village! ■
New Queen Village Small Business
By Maxine Mayer
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Majdal Bakery (618 S. 5th Street), one of the new additions to Queen Village, is a dream come true for Kenan Rabah. As you step into this cozy light-filled shop, your senses will take in the smells of freshly baked pastries and coffee. Several tables welcome you to sit and experience everything the bakery has to offer.
Presently, their hours are Thursday through Sunday, 8am to 2pm, but get there early! They have sold out of their Middle Eastern treats before closing each day since they opened! Warning: You will be hard pressed to pick what you want to try first! ■
Coffee Shops Around the Village
By Louis Bartholomew
Photos by Maxine Mayer
One of the best things about living and working in Queen Village is the litany of great coffee shops to choose from. They attract residents and visitors alike as a gathering spot, offering a respite from the work-from-home setup, a pre-commute caffeination station, a refuge for those who need a break from their work from home setup, or a place to hold small meetings.
In the Village, we have several wonderfully unique options, including (in no particular order): Shot Tower Coffee, Wim Cafe, Ox Coffee, Philadelphia Java Company, Red Hook Tea and Coffee, Three Graces Coffee, and the Green Line Cafe. What makes a great coffee shop? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Shot Tower Coffee, located at 542 Christian Street, boasts high ceilings, an open glass storefront with plenty of natural light, and a warm atmosphere inside, of-
ten buzzing with activity. This is a favorite hangout spot for Nebinger parents after dropping off their kids at school! The number of times I’ve asked to meet people at “Shot Tower” and left out the important word “coffee” has resulted in a few self-inflicted planning errors on my part. Just shows how embedded it is in
some of our brains!
Wim Cafe, a relative newcomer to the neighborhood, is on the bottom floor of Yowie, a boutique hotel which focuses on curating small collections from friends, artists, and designers. The cafe space at 226 South Street, founded by Shannon Maldonado and Everett Abitbol, features distinctive and charming yellow outside chairs and tables, making this the perfect location to meet folks on South Street or to enjoy some people-watching.
Just down the street is Ox Coffee, located at 616 S. 3rd Street, which offers an intimate atmosphere to catch up with friends or meet a new passing doggo! If you go past their main counter, you’ll find a small backroom with tables, as well as an intimate outdoor patio. This spot is also a main hangout for the 2nd Ward Democrats, as Ox Coffee is co-owned by ward leader, Will Gross!
Philadelphia Java Company, located at 852 S. 2nd Street, immediately makes you think of an Old World-style Italian cof fee shop, with its green, black, and white striped canopies, exposed brick interior, and classic outdoor thatched chairs. This spot is close to both Beck Park and Moya mensing Point, giving coffee lovers mul tiple options to enjoy nearby nature!
One thing that sets Red Hook Tea and Coffee (765 S 4th Street) apart from the others is the comfy seating. When you walk in, you’re greeted by some of the plushest chairs in Queen Village, ensur ing you’ll be staying right up until clos ing time. As a bonus, they also have one of the most active bulletin boards in the community, playing host to artists, tutor advertisements, and a plethora of group sports and activities.
Three Graces Coffee, located at 719 E. Passyunk Avenue, has unique dualflanking windows and entrances, offering access on both E. Passyunk Avenue and 5th Street. Located across from Meredith School, you can always count on finding parents before and after pickup mixed in with the usual crowd of professionals deep in thought hunched over their lap -
tops. There seems to be a disproportionate number of cute doggos who frequent this location!
Located right on the edge of the Village, Green Line Cafe, located at 518 S. 4th Street, has a great cozy, intimate at-
small room with a couch and additional tables. This is definitely one of the best spots to be in cold weather!
No matter your mood, you can always find a great coffee shop in Queen Village. If there are any on the list you haven’t yet patroned, stop in and grab a hot beverage this winter! ■
OL D SWED ES ’
Old Swedes’ Episcopal Church
Philly Cheese School Experience
By Hilary Young
The first thing I noticed when I opened the door to the Philly Cheese School (701 S. 9th Street) was how warm and inviting the sunlightfilled space felt. A neon-pink sign hung on the exposed brick wall that reads “say cheese,” a cow-hide rug, plants sitting along the oversized windows, a pink accent wall, and several tables pre-set with plates of cheese. It’s cozy, it’s cheerful, and it’s hipper than you would expect an educational space to be.
In other words, the Philly Cheese School is a totally unique experience. I bought tickets for two friends and me to do the Wine & Cheese Class with Santé, a Philadelphia wine and dining experience curation service. The event, which was hosted by Alex Stanton from Philly Cheese School, also featured wine pairings courtesy of Santé’s Alyssa Ellis. The two women greeted us when we walked in and guided us to our table (if you can call it that; the space is very intimate and only seats 16 people). Many of us had never been to a cheese tasting before, and Alex opened the event by reminding us that the tasting experience is subjective, so despite what any expert might say, we should trust our own palettes.
Over the course of the next hour, we tasted four different cheeses and four different wines. We learned about the regions where the cheeses and the wines are produced, the science behind how they are made, and the farmer supply chain. According to Alyssa, a good rule of thumb for pairing wine and cheese is “if it grows together, it goes together.”
Photo by Maxine Mayer
My most surprising discovery of the evening? Experiencing how much a wine could change my opinion of a cheese and vice versa. I came in with strong opinions of some of the wines and cheeses but managed to have my mind changed (and my horizons broadened!) by the end of the event.
And that is really the whole point according to Julia Fox Birnbaum, a cheese visionary and Philly Cheese School founder.
“I’m a big believer in learning through storytelling,” said Birnbaum. “I want to bring people into the story of the products we share, making sure they feel welcome by the experience. Cheese shouldn’t be too serious; we aim to be accessible to everyone, and a little silly.”
Birnbaum launched what eventually became the Philly Cheese School in 2020 during the pandemic. Like everything else at the time, it was all virtual. People
would book a class online, Birnbaum would ship them the cheese for the virtual class, and then they’d all have a fun shared experience from the comfort of their own homes. As the world began to reopen, Birnbaum began to offer in-person experiences in parks around Philadelphia. By the summer of 2022, she had opened her brick-and-mortar shop on the corner of 9th and Bainbridge.
“Cheese is all around us all the time,” she said. “We encounter it, but we never really stop to think about it or learn about it. But once you show people that pathway, it opens a whole world of food for them.”
Birnbaum is clear that right now, Philly Cheese School does not sell any of the cheese for their classes. They are an educational space only. She does, however, have dreams of eventually opening a nearby cheese shop.
Photo by Maxine Mayer
“Sometimes cheese is weird! It can smell; people have feelings about it that they have to move past,” Birnbaum said. “But when they’re open to it, they’re usually converted. My goal is to create spaces where you feel safe to explore your senses.”
The creation of safe spaces is really important to how Birnbaum crafted the concept for her brick-and-mortar shop. After graduating with a bachelor of arts in English from Sarah Lawrence College, Birnbaum moved to New York City to pursue a career as a magazine writer but quickly realized she’d need to find a side gig in order to pay her rent. She ended up taking a job at a cheese counter and—surprisingly— found that she loved it. What she didn’t love? A lot of people offering up opinions about her decision to work at a cheese counter.
As a result, Birnbaum decided to build the business she always wished she had access to. And with Philly Cheese School, she’s successfully become a disrupter in the industry.
“My hope is that people leave and think differently about food in general. There are so many great stories behind artisanal foods and it can help you see that it’s about so much more than just the food; it’s about the process and a labor of love.”
If you’d like to sign up for a Philly Cheese School event, book a private event, or purchase a gift card for friends and family, visit https://www.phillycheeseschool.com ■
Essential Oils for the Winter Months
By Michele O’Brien
The practice of using plants, flowers, and herbs in medicine spans centuries and cultures. People all over the world leverage aromatics, such as essential oils, for spiritual, religious, and medicinal purposes.
Essential oils are, quite literally, the essence or fragrance of a plant or fruit, drawn out via one of several methods of extraction. Steam distillation is the most popular method, followed by expression, also known as cold pressing; the latter is mainly applicable for citrus fruits.
Here at the Crier, we know all too well that while winter often brings cheer and festivities, it may also bring added stress. Colder weather can, similarly, increase the likelihood of aching joints and catching colds. Turn to Mother Nature to provide some physical or emotional relief during the busy holiday season.
Ease Congestion
For headaches and congestion related to the common cold or flu, choose peppermint or eucalyptus essential oils. Peppermint is a natural antiseptic and decongestant, while eucalyptus opens the respiratory tract, which will loosen mucus.
Steams of either oil can be created by adding a few drops of the oil to boiling water. For more severe congestion, do this in a bowl, cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and take in several deep breaths. If you’re in a pinch, try just adding a few drops to your shower, bath, or a diffuser. Eucalyptus steam, specifically, can alleviate symptoms of bronchitis, coughs, and flu. Peppermint steam, on the other hand, can assuage sinus issues.
Most mainstream ointments contain peppermint and eucalyptus oils as key ingredients. Make your own by mixing a few drops into common carrier oil, such as coconut, shea or jojoba oils. Rub these mixtures under your nose and across your chest to breathe easier.
One final benefit of each oil is their ability to energize and uplift. Smell them to experience this added bonus, enjoy their scents, and combat the stress and woes of the season’s celebrations.
Soothe Aches
Feeling achy and tired after hours of holiday shopping or baking? Juniper berry or frankincense have anti-inflammatory properties that can provide some relief.
Add either oil to an unscented lotion or a carrier oil, such as grapeseed, almond, or jojoba, to create a massage oil that may soothe sore muscles.
Both oils can also be diffused. Their scents will boost your spirit and purify the air. Frankincense, especially, may help maintain a healthy immune system and is prized for its ability to heal the body and the psyche. To avoid headaches or overuse, be sure to run your diffuser in 20 minute intervals and clear thoroughly after each use.
Everything Else
It would be remiss to leave out lavender, often referred to as the “GOAT” (greatest of all time) of essential oils. It can be used in any season, so there is no harm in always keeping a bottle on hand.
Lavender soothes the soul and the skin. The grounding, calming scent of lavender can relax an anxious and racing mind. It also invites restfulness, making it the insomniac’s shining star in a galaxy of sedatives.
Unlike the aforementioned essential oils, lavender alone can be applied directly to the skin without using a carrier oil. It can calm dry, itchy winter skin, and it also can improve light burns, scrapes and cuts. Store it in your fridge so it’s within arm’s reach, should your holiday baking go awry. Don’t let the winter blues get you down: Keep your body and mind healthy with essential oils. No matter the season, they are here to protect us naturally! ■
