QVNA provides community stewardship, advocacy and service to help improve quality of life for Queen Village residents.
OF DIRECTORS (2023–2024 TERM)
OFFICERS
Cait Allen – PRESIDENT
Chris Mullen – VICE PRESIDENT
Matt Atkins – SECRETARY
Philip Holzhauer – TREASURER
DIRECTORS
Kevin Farrell
Andrew Jarrah
Mae Johnson
Patricia Kucker
Dennis Mahoney
Amanda Maize
Micah Shapiro
Rich Villa
Kim Vo
EMERITUS DIRECTORS
Kathy Conway
Inez Green
Michael Hauptman
Marian Buczek
Meet Your Neighbor Contributors
QVNA sincerely appreciates the time and talent of the volunteers who helped create this issue of the QV Crier.
Gabe Halperin-Goldstein moved to Queen Village in 2022. Gabe works as a social worker in the hoarding program at Jewish Family and Children’s Services, and otherwise can be found reading, playing ultimate frisbee, and eating a chicken quesadilla at New Wave.
Emily McDonnell has called Queen Village her home since 2024 after having lived up and down the East Coast. She plans to be a Villager for life. You can find her at the farmers market, picking flowers with her son Damian, practicing holistic yoga, or enjoying vegan hotdogs at the many no-frills grub spots in the area.
Tony Rojas is a writer, musician, and former college newspaper editor (which is how he met his wife). He moved to Queen Village in 2024 and is excited to learn more about the neighborhood characters.
Taylor Long is an urban planner, writer, and a former college newspaper editor (which is how she met her husband). She moved to Queen Village in 2024 and loves the walkability of the neighborhood.
Shawn Rybacki was born and raised in Queen Village. Her parents owned a small business on South Street in the 80s, so she considers supporting the QV community a legacy. Shawn is a licensed professional counselor, artist, and wellness nerd.
Daniel Lidon has lived in Philadelphia for nearly 20 years and in 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 2022, so she is relatively new to Queen Village but already considers it home. By day, she works as a director of media for an NYC marketing agency; by night and on the weekends, she’s an avid walker, amateur historian, and diehard 76ers fan.
Maxine Mayer has been a QV neighbor since 2004. After retiring from a ful-
filling nursing career, Mayer pursued her love of photography volunteering for the Southeastern PA Red Cross and QV Crier. Follow Maxine’s instagram @maxine.mayer.
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.
Kelly Joyce has lived on a tiny street in Queen Village since 2012. She is a professor of Sociology at Drexel University where she researches medicine and health. She volunteers with the Tree Tenders to help plant and care for trees in Queen Village.
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. ■
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GAVOTA AND SLAWA TRIUMPH TULIPS IN FRONT OF OUR GERMANTOWN STUDIO
Letter from the President
Hey friends!
By Cait Allen, QVNA President
Spring may be my favorite new season: The weather finally gets warmer, the stunning twin magnolia trees on 3rd Street bloom, and the neighborhood comes to life with incredible familyfriendly activities.
Our main event this quarter is our third annual Summer at Courtyard block party fundraiser on May 3 from 2–10pm on the 300 block of Catharine Street.
Our co-host as usual is New Wave Café, one of the most quintessential Queen Village restaurants, who will also be celebrating their 40th anniversary that day!
The event will feature live music, delicious bites and drinks, bouncy houses, raffle prizes, and much, much more!
All proceeds from the event go towards supporting the summer camp for kids who live at the Courtyard housing development in the southern part of the
neighborhood. This full-day program runs Monday through Thursday from July 7 to August 14 and emphasizes academics, athletics, STEM skills, and civics.
So, come out on May 3 to enjoy a burger and beer for a good cause and celebrate 40 incredible years of New Wave Café!
Cait
Queen Village Queen Village
The Balance Room
A New Business Highlight
Article by Emily McDonnell
Photos by Emily McDonnell and Maxine Mayer
Within the confines of Queen Village, you’ll find a gem that has been steadily growing since its conception in March 2021: the Balance Room, a Pilates studio that’s redefining what it means to offer a fitness space that is both inclusive and authentically supportive. This small but mighty studio was founded by Mari Rubin, a certified Pilates instructor with a deep passion for wellness and movement, and is a testament to hard work, community, and the importance of building a business that represents its owner’s values. From humble beginnings to a second location opening in 2023, The Balance Room has captured the attention of the neighborhood with its welcoming atmosphere, genuine instruction, and a commitment to making fitness accessible to all.
Rubin’s journey to Pilates wasn’t a straightforward one. Prior to calling Philadelphia home, she lived in Boston, where she became certified in Pilates in 2012. But the pivotal moment in her career came when she traveled to Israel through a program called Oranim. At 23 years old, Rubin found herself living on a kibbutz, a type of commune, where she was introduced to Pilates in a whole new way. The classes were taught in Hebrew, but as Rubin quickly discovered, movement transcends language. “Movement is universal,” she said. This experience deeply influenced her approach to Pilates and further solidified her dream of opening a studio that would reflect her personal practice and beliefs.
In 2015, Rubin met Karlee Markarian, a fellow Pilates instructor with a background in dance. Markarian, who had been teaching Pilates since 2011, came to the practice after dealing with her own injury and chronic pain while studying dance at Drexel University. The two formed a friendship and worked together at a different studio before Markarian joined The Balance Room team in late 2023, first as a part-time instructor and now as lead instructor and studio manager. She has been instrumental in operating a space that exudes soul and accessibility.
Rubin’s vision for The Balance Room began to take shape in the summer of 2020 when the world was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. People were
craving connection and normalcy, and Rubin found herself teaching Pilates classes in her backyard. That summer was a transformative experience for her: It not only validated her belief in the power of Pilates but also gave her the confidence to pursue the dream of opening a studio. By December 2020, Rubin signed a lease, and The Balance Room was born.
Since opening, The Balance Room has become known for its inclusive atmosphere and its dedication to offering a fitness space that feels welcoming to everyone. Rubin’s commitment to inclusivity is woven into the very fabric of the studio, from the way instructors are treated to the way clients feel in each class. “Fitness is for everyone,” Rubin emphasizes, noting that the wellness spectrum is something they are always exploring in their practice.
A key element of The Balance Room’s success is Rubin’s deep commitment to her instructors. She strives to make her studio an “instructor-forward” space, where teachers are supported and encouraged to further their education. She often subsidizes their professional development, empowering her team to grow
both as individuals and as instructors. This nurturing environment is reflected in the team dynamic, where the instructors are not only colleagues but also close friends who support one another, share ideas, and help each other succeed.
Markarian has played an instrumental role in the studio’s growth. A true righthand woman, Markarian is the perfect complement to Rubin’s visionary leadership. While Rubin is the big-picture thinker, Markarian excels at executing those ideas with precision and organization. Together, they’ve built a business that is more than just a Pilates studio— it’s a community. Even while raising two young children, Rubin has managed to balance the demands of motherhood with the needs of her business, thanks to Karlee’s unwavering support.
The success of The Balance Room isn’t just about its physical space; it’s about the people who walk through the door. The studio has quickly built a loyal following of clients who feel empowered by their practice. The diverse age group of clients—many of whom are older adults— are drawn to the studio’s unpretentious environment. It’s a place where everyone
feels seen, heard, and supported, regardless of their fitness level.
The Balance Room’s approach to Pilates is unique in its inclusivity. Pilates, often seen as a practice geared toward an exclusive demographic, is actively made accessible to people of all backgrounds. One example of this commitment is their recent “Pilates for Men” workshop, designed to break down the misconception that Pilates is only for women. The workshop was thoughtfully planned around the mobility and physical needs of men while also considering the emotional aspects that may come into play. It was an important step in making Pilates a more inclusive practice for all genders and empowering men to embrace their bodies in a new way. Markarian led the workshop, helping participants feel safe, welcomed, and supported throughout the process.
Looking ahead, The Balance Room shows no signs of slowing down. In April 2023, the studio expanded by opening a second space, and just this past fall, after a renovation of its basement, their new mat space was ready to welcome clients. This second location gives them more room to grow, offering even more oppor-
tunities for people in the Queen Village neighborhood to experience Pilates in a supportive environment.
The story of the Balance Room is a beautiful example of what happens when passion, dedication, and community come together. It is not just a Pilates studio—it’s a place where people can build strength, flexibility, and confidence in a space that feels like home. With a clear focus on instructor support and authenticity, The Balance Room has quickly become a beloved part of the Queen Village community.
For Rubin, the journey is far from over. The Balance Room’s story is one of growth, resilience, and a deep commitment to offering a fitness space where everyone belongs. It’s a place where people can experience the joy of movement, no matter where they are on their fitness journey. As Rubin continues to nurture her business and her family, she is proud of the space she has created—a place where Pilates is for everyone, and where people can feel empowered, supported, and welcome every time they step through the door. For more information, visit www.balancephl.com ■
Approved Textiles Picks Up The Thread Of Fabric Row For A New Generation Of Makers
By Taylor Long
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Approved Textiles, located in a cozy storefront on 4th Street just south of Bainbridge, is the first fabric store to open on Fabric Row in decades. The store’s selection of handloomed fabrics, clothing patterns, and materials for other fiber-based crafts, continues the tradition of the craftspeople that made Fabric Row famous more than a century ago.
The history of Fabric Row, located along 4th Street between Bainbridge and Catharine Streets, is what inspired owners, Matthew Addonizio and Loran Grishow-Schade, to make it the home for their new business.
“There was never any other place we were looking,” Loran said. “Truly. There really wasn’t. It seemed so obvious. You have to go to Fabric Row.”
Though deeply rooted in the history of Fabric Row, Approved Textiles’ offerings are unique and personally curated. They are informed by Matthew’s work in clothing and textile design and Loran’s background in social work. This combination has resulted in an attention to sustainability, craft, ethical sourcing of materials, and accessibility that informs their business decisions.
Here you’ll find hand-loomed fabrics from India, Africa, and the United King-
dom draped across large wooden racks and folded carefully in cabinets alongside deadstock fabrics (unsold leftover inventory) from the Philadelphia-based designer Lobo Mau. Gender-neutral sewing patterns which range in size from XS to 7X are tucked in a tall display shelf. There is a small rack of garments designed by Matthew hanging in one corner. Tools and thread for mending using a Japanese stitching method called Shashiko are laid neatly across a large table. Tall shelves are stocked with artisanal homewares and Mason jars full of unique buttons.
“We don’t want to be everything for everyone,” Loran said. “We want to be the right thing for the right person. That audience is growing daily.”
Many of the iconic textile and garment businesses that came to define Fabric Row started as families and craftspeople selling their wares out of pushcarts. In many ways, Approved Textiles continues this same story, although perhaps in a more modern retelling including a Kickstarter campaign, an online store, and pop-ups at art studios and craft fairs.
Approved Textiles opened in Novem-
ber 2024 after a year of fundraising and operating pop-ups out of Matthew’s studio space, at the Bok Building’s Fiber Craft Holiday Market, and the Queen Village Summer Solstice Block Party. It was the block party where they met many of their now-fellow business owners on 4th Street, including the owners of Fleischman’s Fabrics & Supplies. Less than a year later, Approved Textiles and Fleischman’s are referring customers to the other’s store.
“In speaking with them and hearing how they complement our service and we complement theirs... we know what the other has and how we can support people coming down here,” Loran said.
In addition to their selection of products, Approved Textiles also hosts events and workshops in their intimate space that are aimed at building skills like darning, visible mending, and patchwork. These skills underscore the store’s ethos of sustainable repair and reuse. The store welcomed its first artist-in-residence, Camilla Mustard, in March. Mustard’s work features a series of hand-painted swaths of regenerative cotton, which is grown using sustainable agriculture practices.
Accessing quality, sustainable goods and fabrics is another challenge that is front-of-mind for Loran and Matthew, who are intent on providing affordable offerings and ensuring the store is accessible to all shoppers. This is why they of-
fer several items at more affordable price points, including mending transfers and a selection of fabrics that are $10 per yard.
“It’s not a liberation if we’re not all able to show up to it,” Loran said. “If we want to make the future sustainable, we all have to be sustainable in our practices and in our daily lives. Sustainability isn’t just for goop.”
In the spirit of accessibility, the store also established sensory-friendly hours on Saturday mornings from 10am to noon where no music is played, scents are not used, and shoppers can browse with minimal interaction.
This intentionality and attention to detail is something that is beginning to be felt by the community as the new business establishes itself in Queen Village. Loran says they’re acquainting themselves with a steady stream of regulars. They’ve found it exciting to learn people’s names, hear about what people are making, and get to know customers on a personal level. Some neighbors are experiencing financial difficulties. Others are regaining shaken confidence as they mend and repair their clothes.
“Because sewing is a way to take care of ourselves, it shows me how much people need a big hug,” Loran said. “We need to take care of ourselves. We need hope. And to be able to offer that to people feels really special.” ■
Welcome to the Charles Santore Library
By Kelly Joyce
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Ilove libraries. I always have. My mom used to take my brothers and me to the local library every week. As a kid, it seemed amazing that we could pick out new books again and again and it didn’t depend on how much money we had.
The Charles Santore Library, located at 932 South 7th Street, serves Queen Village, Bella Vista, and the surrounding neighborhoods. I sat down with Margaret Triandafyllis, library supervisor, and Lindsay Friedman, children’s librarian, to learn more about our local branch. The library is staffed by a powerhouse team that offers a variety of programming and accessible, welcoming spaces.
Santore Library is a community hub. People are welcome to use the library as a workspace, or as a place to read, write, and be. The building’s design, with its many large windows, creates a welcoming cascade of natural light. In the warmer months, the library has a beautifully landscaped courtyard with tables and chairs maintained by a volunteer. It is a perfect spot to sit and read.
And Queen Villagers read. The Santore Library, although a small branch, ranks in the top three of the highest circulation numbers for the entire Free Library system. It also has a high volume of patrons, with many folks accessing
library resources and/or participating in programs.
Small and mighty, Santore Library aims to serve people of all ages. The staff have developed programming with this goal in mind. Weekly programs include chair yoga, English conversation, read to a therapy dog, toddler story time, youth chess club, and more. Twice a month, PA CareerLink staff visit the library to help people with job searches and resumes.
The library staff aim to have consistent programming that responds to community needs. For example, they create original programs when schools have a half day so students have a place to go and parents can work. They also offer LEAP, an afterschool homework assistance program, every weekday from 3–5pm. Any child who needs extra support can drop in and receive help from a staff person and teen library assistants. No registration is required.
The library staff work with community members to make the library even more welcoming. For example, the staff redesigned the teen space to make it more open and inviting. Working with the furniture and shelves that they had, they reconfigured the layout of shelves and books to create open table spaces for teens to use. They also collaborated with
the Southwark School and Mural Arts Philadelphia to develop a mural called “A Tale of Two Sisters” for the library’s outer walls in 2023. Teaching artist Rebecca Miller’s students wrote the story and created collages that became the mural’s content. Told in four visually bold, colorful panels, the mural follows two sisters who are good friends. When one sister falls into a lake, the other calls for help. Responding to her plea, a magical fish rescues the girl from the water.
Groups can also use the library. If your group would like to use the library’s general space, call the Santore Library’s main phone number, 215-686-1766, to arrange it with Margaret Triandafyllis. If your group would like to reserve the meeting room, please fill out the meeting room application form.
Santore Library posts their program schedule each month. You can find the schedule at the library’s circulation desk or on the library’s website and Facebook page. If you have yet to visit Santore Library, it is worth a visit in the upcoming months. ■
� D
DAMIS TEAM
BERKSHIRE Fox & Roach, HATHAWAY REALTORS' HomeServices
Gregory J. Damis, CNHS
• Experience
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• Queen Village Resident
Serving Queen Village for 38 Years!
Our commitment to your happiness is the foundation from which a solid business relationship is built. Simply put, your satisfaction is our greatest reword. Our business hos been built on solid and unwavering foundations, and we look forward to putting our expertise to work for you.
Cohen’s “Old-Fashioned” Hardware
By Tony Rojas
“I’m old-fashioned,” says Mitch Cohen. “This is an old-fashioned business.”
What is old-fashioned? According to Mitch, it’s simple: customer service. “I don’t care if you’re selling t-shirts, shoes, or a hammer, great customer service is key.”
Cohen’s Hardware and Home Goods began in 1913 at 911 South Street and was owned and operated by Mitch’s great-grandmother, Barnett Cohen. “At that time,” says Mitch, “there were shops made for the people who lived in the neighborhood. Bridal shops and suit shops and hardware stores like us.” It was a full generation later that the neighborhood would truly start to change.
“My dad, Marvin, took over from his dad when he got back from the Marines,” says Mitch. By this time, the store had moved a few blocks east to 534 South Street, and business was booming so much so that it began to form a generational divide. According to Mitch, his grandfather, Phil, insisted on keeping the business small, but the increasing clientele and ever-increasing rent convinced Marvin to expand. “In 1976,” says Mitch, “my dad moved the store to a larger location down the street at 417 South Street.” Then in the 80s came the big box stores, but they weren’t the real threat. It was during Mitch’s time at the helm that the online retail revolution began.
Mitch started working at the store when he turned 18 and not soon after knew that he wanted to be the next owner. “I tried out college, you know, took a couple classes, but I already knew
what I wanted to do,” he says. “I wanted to run the family business.” When he took over, Mitch moved the store again, this time to a smaller building in its current location just off South Street at 615 Passyunk Avenue. This was in 1996, just a few years before online shopping began to take hold. “Online shopping ruined America,” Mitch says. “You want people outside, walking around. It gives life to the neighborhood and,” he stresses, “the streets are safer when there are more people outside.”
To compete with one-click convenience, Mitch takes after his grandfather and recommends “small.” “When it comes to a local business, small is key. A thousand square feet is perfect; keep it small and unique.” For true impact, though, he still maintains that customer service
is the greatest tool. “It’s all about talking to people,” he says. “Asking them about their days, their families, the Eagles, the new restaurants opening around the neighborhood, making a connection.”
Beyond just talking to people, he also provides unique services, such as glass cutting, repairs, key-making, and free advice on the best new businesses around the neighborhood—which he does both with customers and on his Instagram page. “That’s also key. We’re all in this together, so it really costs me nothing to talk up another business.”
“For me,” says Mitch, “it’s a connection to the neighborhood and getting people in here that keeps me going, the human stuff—sorry,” he interrupts himself midsentence. “My voice is a little hoarse from talking to people all day.” ■
Photo by Maxine Mayer
Mark Your Calendars!
3rd Annual Summer at Courtyard Fundraiser
Saturday, May 3 from 2–10pm 300 Block of Catharine St
In conjunction with New Wave Café, QVNA is hosting our third annual fundraiser for Summer at Courtyard—the free summer camp for children who live at the affordable housing development between Christian and Washington, 3rd and 5th Streets.
The program provides a six-week curriculum with reading and math, athletics, workshops on civics and engineering, weekly field trips, and more! Join the celebration, enjoy some chicken fingers and a beverage, and help support this wonderful cause!
Yoga in the Park
May 15 through September 25, Thursdays at 6pm Jefferson Square Park
Join neighbors for relaxing yoga at Jefferson Square Park all summer long!
Beck Park Cleanup
Saturday, May 17 from 10am–12pm Beck Park
Come out and meet your neighbors around a shared love of keeping our public spaces clean!
For a full list of upcoming QVNA events, check out our events calendar at qvna. org/events. If you have any upcoming events you’d like us to list in our weekly newsletter or the next Crier, please reach out to info@qvna.org!
Discovering the Southwark Community Garden
By Maureen Brady Weir
Photos by Donna Pancari and Kelly Joyce
Take a walk down Christian Street between 3rd and 4th Streets, and the Southwark Community Garden is hard to miss. Behind its gates lies 18,000 square feet of lush greenery—a true oasis in the surrounding urban landscape. Whether you’re a gardener or simply an admirer of nature, this neighborhood gem is worth getting to know as it enriches our community in more ways than you may realize.
A Rich History Rooted in Community
Before becoming the Southwark Community Garden, the land was home to the Henry Burk Public School built in 1906. After the school’s demolition in the late 1960s or early 1970s, the lot sat vacant for several years. In 1976, as part of the neighborhood’s Bicentennial celebration, the Queen Village Neighbors Association’s commu-
nity garden committee transformed the space into a flourishing garden. Thanks to the dedication of local residents and support from city and state officials, the site has been preserved as a permanent green space, safeguarding it from future development. Nearly 50 years later, the Southwark Community Garden remains a cornerstone of our neighborhood and a model for future urban green spaces.
A Thriving Ecosystem in the Heart of the City
Under the umbrella of the Neighborhood Gardens Trust, the Garden is home to 67 individual plots where members cultivate a wide variety of herbs, vegetables, flowers, trees, and more. But beyond providing space for urban gardening, this community green space plays a vital role in supporting our local ecosystem.
Pollinator Support: With a diverse mix of plants and a dedicated pollinator garden, the garden attracts and sustains bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. This not only helps plants thrive within the garden but also enhances greenery and flowering plants throughout the surrounding neighborhood.
Wildlife Habitat: Native plants, trees, and water sources create a welcoming refuge for birds, insects, and other small wildlife that might otherwise struggle to find food and shelter in an urban setting.
Oxygen Production and Air Cooling: The garden’s trees and plants improve air quality by producing oxygen and filtering pollutants. They also help combat urban heating by helping to cool the air—especially during the city’s warm summer months.
Beekeeping and Local Honey: The garden is home to five beehives managed by dedicated beekeepers. The honey is bottled and sold to members, providing support for the garden’s upkeep—all while strengthening local pollination.
Sustainability Initiatives: Features such as solar panels and a composting toilet provide members with eco-friendly resources while reducing the garden’s environmental footprint.
Community Connection
The garden is more than a place to grow fruits and vegetables—it’s also a space that gives back. Through its participation in the PHS City Harvest Program, gardeners volunteer their time to grow, harvest, and distribute fresh produce to area residents facing food insecurity, ensuring that the garden’s bounty benefits the wider community.
Another unique feature is the fig tree grove, a nod to our local climate’s similarity to regions in Italy where figs flourish. If you happen to walk by in early spring, you may notice the trees looking heavily pruned—but don’t worry! This seasonal trimming is an essential part of ensuring a productive harvest later in the year.
Joining the Southwark Community Garden
The demand for plots is high and there is currently a waitlist. Those interested in joining the queue can sign up via the garden’s website: swqvgarden.org. Members are encouraged to stay involved by attending yearly meetings and completing 10 service hours, which can be fulfilled through monthly clean-ups, committee work, or other garden tasks.
You don’t have to be a gardener to appreciate the Southwark Community Garden. This vibrant green space enriches our environment, fosters community spirit, and serves as a living example of how nature connects us all. Whether you’re tending a plot or simply enjoying a stroll nearby, the garden is a reminder of the beauty and value of our neighborhood green spaces. ■
Volunteer Spotlight: Philly AIDS Thrift
Philly AIDS Thrift does so much more than sell second-hand clothes, none of which would be possible without the assistance of roughly 60 volunteers.
By Gabe Halperin-Goldstein
by Maxine Mayer
Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou, cofounder of Philly AIDS Thrift, credits an often-unheralded group as essential to the store’s success.
“The volunteers are the backbone of the whole place,” says Kallas-Saritsoglou.
The thrift store located at 5th & Bainbridge, which Kallas-Saritsoglou founded in 2005 alongside Tom Brennan, Peter Hiler and Mike Wilson, employs a unique staffing model with roughly 60 regular volunteers to supplement the work of 30 part-time and full-time staff.
Depending on their interests, volunteers assume a range of responsibilities, such as working the cashier, displaying items, moving boxes, sorting new
Photos
inventory, and operating social media. While the inventory at many other thrift stores in Queen Village is highly curated, the work of volunteers helps Philly AIDS Thrift sustain a business model based on volume.
“So much stuff comes in, and so much stuff gets turned over in a day,” says John, a volunteer who started during the height of COVID-19 and spends his shifts sorting and pricing donated books. “This means that prices are lower. Every time you come in, there is fresh stock and shelves are totally turned over.”
The wide range of apparel coupled with low prices makes the store a place for everyone.
“We really serve all communities here,” says Kallas-Saritsoglou. “The items we have in the store are everything from dollar items, which can really help people who are in need or on a budget. And then we also have designer clothing, collectibles, and mid-century modern furniture. It really runs the gamut.”
As another means of making their products affordable, Philly AIDS Thrift gives vouchers to local HIV organizations that have case management services. People living with HIV who are struggling financially can get a voucher from their case manager and use it towards essentials such as clothing and kitchenware.
Thanks to the many volunteers coming in and out, most of whom work one three-hour shift per week, everyone at the shop can stay fresh.
“It seems like no one gets too burnt out here, because the volunteer shifts are not too long,” says Stevie, a Queen Village resident who has been volunteering with Philly AIDS thrift since 2017.
There is always someone with energy, just beginning their shift. This boost uplifts the mood of volunteers and relieves the burden on staff.
“When you walk in, sometimes someone comes in with different energy, and they are ready to tackle something new,” Stevie continues. “If I am down, I look forward to coming into the shift. Being here makes me feel good.”
Happy volunteers and staff lead to a more welcoming store for customers. Ekillous, a volunteer at Philly AIDS Thrift since 2022, identifies safety as Philly AIDS Thrift’s biggest contribution to Queen Village.
“It is a place of community,” says Ekillous. “A place you can go if it is cold or raining. You can just walk in and be like, ‘I need.’ Nobody is pressuring you about it or saying, ‘Ah you got to get out, you’ve been here for 40 minutes.’”
Volunteers tend to see repeat customers regularly. They often give umbrellas to those who need protection from the weather. Beyond that, the store’s spaciousness, interesting products, and friendly staff make it a comfortable place to spend time.
“It gives me a place of, almost like, home,” says Ekillous. “Or, like shopping at your grandmother’s house.”
The volunteer tasks are a true neighborhood effort. Come in on a random day, and you might find business owners from other integral Queen Village enterprises
during their free time, such as Annamarie from Cohen’s Hardware, Barry from Jim’s Steaks, and Nicole K, co-owner of South Street Art Mart. Nicole is also a resident of Queen Village and a Philly AIDS Thrift Board Member.
A rare handful of specialized volunteers use their expertise to identify hidden gems. Barb, who works on Jeweler’s Row, prices all the jewelry, and recently identified a chain of 24-carat gold that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. In another example, John found a vintage, unused Keith Haring coloring book that quickly sold for $800 dollars.
Volunteers can take satisfaction in knowing that the payout of their efforts are going back to the community. KallasSaritsoglou, Brennan, Hiler and Wilson are longtime public health activists who saw the devastating impacts of HIV and AIDS on their queer communities. They opened the store to support those living with HIV and AIDS.
Beyond staff and operating costs, all Philly AIDS Thrift proceeds go to local HIV organizations. Most recently, the store gave $358,000 in February 2025. Since its inception, it has donated just over $5 million dollars.
“So much of the money goes back out the door to charitable endeavors,” says John. “For me that is important. I don’t just want to pay some CEO’s salary with my volunteer labor.”
Neighborhood stalwarts like Philly AIDS Thrift are not built overnight, nor built alone. Their shifts may be short, but the volunteers’ efforts go a long way toward making Philly AIDS Thrift a bedrock of the Queen Village community.
“Philly AIDS thrift is more than just a thrift store,” says Kallas-Saritsoglou. “Tom and I have always looked at this place as a piece of art, and everyone is contributing.” ■
Butcher’s Sew Shop
By Hilary Young
Photos by Maxine Mayer
The thrill of making something–something usable or wearable–is not a feeling readily available to most of us who live in a commoditized, ondemand world. But a local neighborhood establishment is looking to change that.
Butcher’s Sew Shop, located at the corner of 8th and Catharine Streets, is on a mission to help people fall in love with making things.
“We live in instant gratification culture,” said Emily Coleman, head of afterschool programming for Butcher’s Sew Shop. “And we’re encouraging kids to slow down to engage in the maker experience. It’s a way for them to see that they can break complex things into small steps to reach a goal. They walk out with so much pride for what they’ve achieved.”
“Once you figure out how to make something small,” added owner, Megan McCusker. “You start to think about what else you can make. It opens up an entire world of creativity for people of all skill levels.”
In a modern world where parents are competing with screens to get their
children’s attention, Butcher’s Sew Shop is a welcome antidote. Their afterschool programs and summer camps allow children between the ages of 5 and 15 to be fully present, screen free. Children who are new arrivals to the program must first earn their “sewing license,” which helps familiarize them with the sewing machines they use in class.
Once they can use the machines properly, they get to work on creating–everything from mittens that look like whales to stuffed animals to makeup pouches.
“It’s incredible to watch these kids navigate the unfamiliar and build skills that translate to other areas of their lives,” said Coleman. “It might not seem like it, but sewing has the power to have a big impact on young people. We’ve watched so many kids develop who they are as people as they’ve developed sewing skills.”
Founded in 2014, Butcher’s Sew Shop was launched to make sewing more accessible to people. The original owner chose the name based on the historical
context of the building: It was home to Guarrera’s Quality Meats for nearly 80 years. As mentioned on their website, the original tiled walls and punched tin ceilings still remain intact at the Sew Shop–an homage to the level of excellence
the Guarrera family delivered to chefs throughout the city “and to the legacy of lives earned through diligent commitment to a craft.”
McCusker purchased Butcher’s Sew Shop from the original owner in 2022 and has carried on the tradition of excellence and commitment to craft. Additionally, however, McCusker’s goal has been to foster a sense of community while also building skills through sewing.
“We serve people of all ages and all levels of skill,” McCusker said. “From those looking to take a refresher course or learning how to sew from scratch to children who are looking for a creative outlet outside of school; we are an inclusive space and try to meet every student where they are. We want sewing to be available to everyone.”
If you are looking to build up your sewing skills or have a child interested in learning about the joy of making things, visit www.butcherssewshop.com to learn more about after-school programs and camps for kids and workshops and classes for adults. ■
Now Enrolling Toddlers & Preschool & Kindergarten Aftercare (Meredith Students)
• Project based learning
• Experienced Teachers
• Yoga, Music & Movement, Arts and Crafts
• Field Trips & In-house Special Guests
• Natural light classrooms
• Healthy Lunch/Snack Program
Visit our Website to Schedule a Tour! Beanstalk • “Where Learning is Organic” 729 E. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA www.beanstalkschool.com • 215-278-2960
Rock and Patrol All Night
By Cait Allen
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Illegal vehicular activity is one of the most common sources of complaints by residents and business owners in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, warmer weather often coincides with an uptick in vehicles blasting music, revving engines, and riding on sidewalks.
Though Mayor Cherelle Parker and Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel have both prioritized this issue since taking office, addressing it can be challenging, since typical police cruisers have limited mobility, and illegal vehicles can often outrun officers on foot or on bicycles.
That has required the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) to get creative, including using dirt bikes of their own. Enter the Citywide Off-Road Vehicle (i.e., “dirt bike”) Detail who can maneuver easily down Philly’s notoriously narrow streets.
The collective efforts of the dirt bike detail have already proven successful. In 2024 alone, there were more than 1,200 confiscations/stops citywide. Common in other cities but new to Philly, the PPD now crushes confiscated illegal vehicles rather than just returning them, and riders of illegal vehicles face fines in excess of $2,000.
One surprising advantage of the Detail? Paperwork. Different information is required depending on what type of vehicle is stopped, why, and whether it’s legally registered. Dirt bike-trained officers are more adept at completing the forms, because they are more often involved in interactions with illegal vehicles.
Members of the Detail also educate riders on how to bring their vehicle
into compliance. A common misconception is that all dirt bikes are prohibited on city streets. However, it is possible to make a dirt bike street legal if a rider takes certain steps, such as obtaining proper registration, insurance, and a motorcycle-class endorsement on their license.
While dirt bike-trained officers have occasionally been deployed to the neighborhood during warmer months, the South Street Mini Station welcomed two fulltime members of the Detail this winter.
Officer Michael Duffy is a 28-year PPD veteran who joined the Detail in 2020.
Since then, Duffy has had his own share of encounters, including one notable instance in Queen Village while stationed here over the summer.
A civilian notified officers that someone who crossed the South Street pedestrian bridge had a gun. Duffy pulled up near him on his bike, and the man started running. Duffy followed him and recovered a firearm that the man discarded during the pursuit.
During an earlier encounter, someone driving a slingshot (the three-wheeled open-air vehicles) hit another officer who was riding a bike. Officers were easily able
to pursue the vehicle and apprehend the suspect. On another occasion near 4th and Snyder, a man on a bicycle fired a gun in the air before dirt bike officers were able to apprehend him.
In addition to addressing illegal vehicular activity, dirt bike-trained officers have proven to be an effective deterrent for retail theft and are better equipped to control large crowds, such as during recent football celebrations.
Duffy’s partner, Officer Travis Clark, was on duty during the Eagles’ National Football League Championship game when a woman inexplicably drove her car into a group of pedestrians, injuring six people. Clark was able to break through the crowd and take the woman into custody without incident because of the maneuverability his bike provides.
Clark has been a member of the PPD for the past 13 years, and like many of
those detailed to the South Street Mini Station, he wanted to become a police officer to help people.
Duffy’s interest in law enforcement began as a five-year-old kid watching the Highway Patrol Drill Team’s Hero
Thrill Show—an annual event that raises money for the college tuition of children of fallen police officers and firefighters. His passion for police work continued to grow as he watched his father, a 28-year veteran of the PPD, serve his community.
Duffy and Clark were both particularly drawn to South Street because of the strong emphasis on community policing. (Within the first few weeks of their new assignment, the officers eagerly took neighborhood kids ice skating at Rizzo Rink, several for the first time!)
Say, “Hi,” to Officers Duffy and Clark if you see them rolling around the Village this spring. ■
Note: The dirt bike detail is made possible by support of the Philadelphia Police Foundation who supplies the requisite riding equipment: boots, gloves, and helmets.
Future of Headhouse Square Clock
Article and Photo by Dan Lidon
Headhouse Square, located just north of our QVNA boundary on 2nd and Lombard Streets, is home to the popular Sunday farmer’s market. Neighbors gather year-round under the pavilion that has been continually used as a public market since 1804. However, perhaps some weekend shoppers have noticed that one of the most notable features of the square, its historic clock, hasn’t been ticking.
Around 1804, neighbors pooled their money to erect the current building at 2nd and Pine Streets. In their design, they included a beautiful large town squarestyle clock. They commissioned master clockmaker Isaiah Lukens, who is most notable for building the clocks at Independence Hall and Christ Church in Old City. Aside from its elegant blue and gold face, the way these large mechanical clocks work is a work of art in itself. A series of gears, pulleys, and weights carefully controls the movements on the hands and allows the clock to keep precise time. However, as time passes and without constant upkeep, these pieces of art are known to break down. The Headhouse Square Clock, while in relatively good condition, is currently undergoing a major restoration under the skilled hands of master clock builder Keith Winship of Winship’s Piece of Time, located in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and expertise in restoring historic timepieces, Winship is dedicated
to preserving the clock’s original beauty while ensuring its continued functionality for years to come. The plan will be updated to include an electric power source for the clock, as well as an electronic bell.
In November 2024, the community came together to support the restoration efforts that raised tens of thousands of dollars for repairs of the treasured landmark. Yet, the journey to restore Headhouse Square to its former glory is far from complete. The total cost of the restoration, which includes vital repairs to the clock, the Shambles, and the iconic cupola, is estimated to reach $1.5 million. The ongoing maintenance and restoration efforts are crucial to preserving the historical significance of this landmark for future generations.
For those who wish to contribute to the restoration efforts, donations can be made directly to the New Market and Headhouse Conservancy, a dedicated organization working to ensure the longevity of Headhouse Square. Learn more at headhousesquare.org.
As the Headhouse Square Clock is lovingly restored, it serves as a reminder not only of Philadelphia’s rich history but also of the collective effort required to preserve our cultural heritage. The next time you’re buying some fresh local groceries or taking shelter from the weather, be sure to look up and admire the Luken’s clock, which will hopefully be ticking again soon. ■
Welcome, Rev. Cavaness, New Pastor at Mother Bethel AME Church
By Nicole Maley
Photos by Maxine Mayer
Last November, Mother Bethel
AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church appointed Reverend Carolyn Cavaness, its first female pastor in a history spanning over two centuries. Located on 419 S. 6th St., the church has been serving the community since 1791 when the AME denomination was formed by Rev. Richard Allen. The church sits on the oldest piece of land continuously owned by African Americans in the United States and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974. I spoke to Rev. Cavaness about the legacy of Mother Bethel and what she is most looking forward to as its new pastor.
Nicole Maley: Tell me about your journey to Mother Bethel. How did you get started as a pastor?
Rev. Cavaness: I am a fourth generation AME pastor. I’ve been preaching since I was 14 and I always knew I’d be a preacher. With [being a preacher] also comes an itinerant system; we are moved to where our gifts and talents are needed, from one congregation to another. I’m originally from Newark, New Jersey. My first
church was in Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania and then to Ardmore on the Main Line. In November, I was assigned to Mother Bethel. I’m still very much humbled by this opportunity to be the pastor of the mother church of African Methodism which sits on the oldest parcel of land owned by African Americans in America.
What strikes you about Mother Bethel being in the Queen Village/Society Hill community?
This is the cradle of where it all began; the birthplace of democracy is in this quadrant.
When you look at the landmarks, the old buildings, and the cobblestones, you realize this is living history that has withstood hundreds of years and is still a marvel. Mother Bethel was the centerfold of Black Philadelphia life; it was that anchor, that launching pad, that gathering place, that safe place. If a person of color could not find what they needed, they knew that they could count on Mother Bethel and that surrounding community to care, to have concern, and to provide. That very much holds true now. Those same tenets haven’t gone away, even two hundred years later.
What do you love about Mother Bethel?
The marvel that this is a place that has withstood from 1791 to present and when visitors come just to experience that marvel. I met a woman on Sunday who came to Mother Bethel on her birthday just to worship and go to the museum. It really meant a lot that someone wanted to mark the anniversary of their life in this historic space. Another thing that means a lot is the intergenerationality that takes place here; families together are all drawing from this rich place.
Is there a certain aspect of the Mother Bethel story that appeals to you the most?
The notion of self-help, self-determination, and what it means to be a holistic community and a refuge space. Those are key tenets for me that held that community together then and I still believe holds the community together now.
Are parishgoers mostly regulars or is it a mix of old and new?
It’s a mix! And we get plenty of visitors, such as the woman who came for her birthday, someone who saw something in the newspaper, or another person who just walked by and always wanted to come inside. It’s really neat when you hear those kinds of testimonials. We have groups that travel too; we have a group coming up from Maryland in March.
What are your goals for your pastorship? Near and long-term?
To learn as much as possible about this historic landmark and about the community. To pay homage to the tradition and make sure it continues to be a lifeline for so many. To protect the legacy of Mother Bethel and Richard Allen. Again, how can we help to fill a void or be a lifeline for those who need it?
Are there any upcoming events that you are particularly excited about?
It’s always action packed! We are celebrating Richard Allen’s birthday on February 14, as well as an additional three days of celebration with other AME’s across the Eastern seaboard. And along with all that, we’re open for tours so people can see the museum and the stainedglass windows that are now fixed. There was a vandalism incident on the windows last February and we had a tremendous community outpouring to ensure they were repaired.
How do you consider your role as a female pastor at Mother Bethel AME?
All I can do is just be me and do what I feel called to do and whatever is needed.
What do you want to ensure people of Queen Village know about Mother Bethel?
All are welcome, the door is always open. We’re “Mother” for a reason. ■
F I N D Y O U R H O M E
Planting Seeds for the Future!
Article and Photos By Susanna Ding
Meredith Elementary’s afterschool Nature Club crafted interpretive signs to share what they studied about wildlife habitats. These signs not only educate fellow students but also promote awareness about the significance of native plants and the creatures that rely on them. The students learned about the importance of pollinators, such as solitary bees and moths, which play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem.
In addition to beautifying the front schoolyard, the school is improving the appearance of the parking lot chain-link fence on Monroe Street. With the help of local artist and Meredith mom Sarah Peoples, students made “urban pollinator” cutouts from recycled coroplast election signs, which will be hung in the spring. (This project was partially funded by a generous neighbor.)
Another part of the school’s beautification efforts added tables to the schoolyard, which were funded through a Queen Village Neighbors Association (QVNA) grant. This new seating created a comfortable outdoor space for students to learn and engage with nature, enhancing their educational experience.
In our garden, we have a lot of native plants that we have been planting since fall 2024. We’ve been making compost from leftovers from school lunch, and it’s helping our plants grow. We need native plants, because the native animals and insects need those plants to eat or drink. For example, bumblebees are native insects, and they need to go to different flowers and eat
Thanks to the Philadelphia Green Schools Grant awarded in February, science teacher Christopher Leshock’s 8thgrade students can turn regular flowerpots into self-watering ones to save water and enable a larger variety of native plants to thrive in the schoolyard. They are also learning how to make their own
nectar. In return, the bumblebee buzzes its wings and the pollen gets on its fuzzy body. Then, when the bumblebee goes to a different flower, it gets pollen on the other flower. This is how the bumblebee pollinates. More people should learn about gardening with native plants because it is really fun to see all the plants grow and change with the seasons.
— Written by Senya, age 10
After-school nature club kids sitting on their newly built bench
Plants for the yard from the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve and Bartram’s Garden
potting mix without peat moss, which is an important carbon storage mechanism in bogs and best avoided for gardening. Raised beds have been added to the yard for students to grow herbs and vegetables in the spring and fall.
Through these initiatives, the students at Meredith are not only beautifying their school but also gaining a deeper understanding of urban wildlife and the environment. Their efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving nature in an urban setting and highlight how young individuals can make a positive impact on their community. These initiatives are possible because of the strong Meredith and Queen Village community who volunteer, donate, and work together to improve the school and the neighborhood as a whole.
Picture by Lilu, age 9
A Honda Pilot full of mulch from the Fairmount Organic Recycling Center
“It feels satisfying and disgusting at the same time” described nine-year-old Meredith student Miriam while holding a red wriggler worm. The worms are used in a new vermicomposting bin to turn school lunch leftovers into worm castings for the garden. Students are also working on a project to create a wildlife habitat on school grounds. This initiative aims to foster a more vibrant ecosystem by incorporating native plants, a water source, and shelter for essential insects and birds, while at the same time beautifying the school and neighborhood. Funded by a generous QVNA grant, the school acquired a variety of native, pollinator-friendly plants from Bartram’s Gardens and the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve in New Hope to ensure that the habitat supports local wildlife. Parent volunteers added compost from the Fairmount Organic Recycling Center, made a wood chip walking path for easier access, and planted dozens of native plants last fall. ■
HOW WE MADE COMPOST
Composting is a process that takes a lot of time. First, we gathered fruits and vegetables, peals, water, and things like dried leaves and cardboard. We put them in a tumbler to get the air in the compost. We still haven’t made it completely muddy, but it’s getting there.
WHAT COMPOST IS USED FOR
When we use the compost, we usually use it for planting the seeds in our garden and using it to make a home/shelter for worms. (It might sound disgusting, but we actually hold them in our hands sometimes. It feels satisfying and disgusting at the same time.)
— Miriam, age 9
Kids from nature club watering the yard during the drought last October
Nature club kids munching on nasturtiums
8th graders Ashley, Lena, and Penny filling the new raised vegetable beds with perlite and compost
Miriam, 9 years and Senya, 10 years carrying the compost bucket from the lunchroom to the compost tumbler in the yard
Allister, 9 watering the new plants
Mini Station Gets Mini Lesson in Mindfulness
By Shawn Rybacki, LPC
Photo by Dan Lidon
As a therapist navigating the current challenges of our world, I try to find creative ways to increase community connections and spread awareness about mental health. I recently had the opportunity to visit the South Street Mini Station to lead a workshop on mindfulness and stress management for the police officers who work there. The goal of this training was to help them understand the physiological and psychological effects of stress, recognize their own responses to highpressure situations, and learn how mindfulness can be an effective technique for recovery and resilience.
We started by exploring what happens in the body during moments of acute stress. The fight, flight, freeze response is the body’s automatic survival mechanism, triggered by real and perceived threats. This response can be lifesaving in dangerous situations but can also contribute to long-term stress if the body doesn’t have time to recover. By practicing mindfulness, we can develop awareness of the signals our bodies send—further deepening our understanding of our needs—and create opportunities to fulfill them.
For officers who regularly encounter unpredictable and high-stakes situations, understanding this response is critical, not only for their own well-being but also for recognizing it in the people with
whom they interact. Someone who appears uncooperative, aggressive, or unable to respond may not be acting out of defiance but rather is experiencing a physiological response which can make it difficult to communicate, move, or cooperate. Beyond self-care, mindfulness can help officers to understand the people they serve. Recognizing stress responses in civilians can assist officers in interpreting behavior and implementing effective de-escalation strategies.
To help officers manage their own stress, I introduced them to a few simple but effective mindfulness techniques. We discussed how to integrate mindfulness
both on and off the clock, underscoring the need for intentional stress recovery, including leaning on each other as a team. Prolonged periods of stress can take a toll on both mental and physical health. Without active recovery, chronic stress can lead to burnout, fatigue, and difficulty regulating emotions.
I am grateful for having had the opportunity to work with the Mini Station! This training is the beginning of what I hope will be an ongoing conversation about mental health. By working together and collaborating through a diversity of ideas and skillsets, I believe we can build more resilient communities. ■
