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Wild Pink hits Johnny Brenda’s stage Sept. 15

An inside look at the Mafia’s most violent family: The Scarfo Mob. | Page 5

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FROM THE EDITOR

SCHOOL DISTRICT GETS AN F ON ASBESTOS ISSUE

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s public schools open across the trict tens of millions of dollars. But this time city this week, children and their around, there was no need to rush. Remote parents hope for one more step learning, as flawed as it was, gave the school on the road back to normalcy. district a golden opportunity to repair many Students will be required to wear of its old, decaying buildings.

Many readers will respond that the district, masks all day, but they will be perennially cash-strapped, cannot afford to back in their physical school buildings, being taught by teachers in fix these problems. They might be forgiven for thinking that, given the way school fundperson. If you ignore the face coverings, it ing is represented in the mainstream media. looks almost like the classroom setting we all While there have been many articles over the remember. years about lack of funds, there are very few But not so fast: news broke last week that that actually contain the figures on how much teachers at Masterman, a magnet school at 17th and Spring Garden, were refusing to the district spends. State funding has been inenter the building. This was not a new labor creasing — in real, inflation-consistent dollars — for decades, and the federal government action over masks, PPE, or any other effect of has distributed massive amounts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The teachmoney during the pandemic. ers, joined by parents of MasterHow much do they have to spend? man students, were drawing attenAccording to the district’s fiscal tion to a much older problem: The year 2022 budget, the total expendidangerous conditions in the school tures are $3.91 billion. Of that, $338 building they said were caused by million goes to debt service and a loose and flaking asbestos. further $143 million is allocated to As reported in the Inquirer “administration,” leaving a total of last week, officials from the Phil$3.313 billion to spend. There are adelphia Federation of Teachers 199,560 students in all public schools claimed (citing school district docin the city — including district-opuments and federal asbestos inerated and charter schools — which spection reports) that “more than gives us a figure of $16,601 per stu60 areas of damaged asbestos have dent. That should be enough to enbeen identified in the school, with sure the schools aren’t full of buildimminent hazards identified in the @KYLESAMMIN ing materials that will kill you. art room and in a second-floor bathDrilling down on those numbers room, as well as damaged material even farther, we can see that excluding charand dust above drop ceilings.” ter schools from the calculations does not Superintendent William R. Hite disagrees change the result much. The district is prowith that assessment, saying at a news conjected to spend $2.067 billion on the schools ference the next day that the teachers’ and that it operates directly, servicing 124,184 stuparents’ concerns were “based on incomplete dents. information or a misunderstanding of appliThat works out to $16,664 per student. The cable regulatory regulations surrounding charters are spending $1.246 billion on 75,376 management of asbestos.” students, which is $16,530 per pupil. Charters Who’s telling the truth? It’s hard to say are actually spending slightly less per student because, as the PFT noted in a press release, than traditional schools, and in less hazard“the District has yet to heed our urgent calls ous conditions. to share data in a systemic, transparent, and All of which is to say: this is a failure of predictable way. As such, we are often left leadership, not funding. scrambling, looking for information that is The problem of asbestos has been present provided in incomplete and haphazard ways.” for years at Masterman. I know because I atCouncilmember Helen Gym, whose chiltended the school 25 years ago and we were dren attend the school, noted that the buildconcerned about it even then. The school dising was closed for more than a year during trict owns a lot of old buildings, but asbestos the COVID-19 shutdown, giving ample time to remediation is a routine, if costly, task. Pricomplete repairs. “This is not difficult,” she vate businesses and homeowners hire consaid on Friday to the Inquirer’s Kristen Gratractors to perform this task every day. The ham, “It is a no-brainer.” district had a perfect opportunity to do the There will not be many occasions where I same and blew it. write a column agreeing with Helen Gym and Government is good at funding education, the PFT, but when you’re right, you’re right. but shameful episodes like this show how bad Masterman gets a lot of attention because it it is at providing educational services. Philais the city’s premier magnet school, but asbesdelphians deserve better. If the school district tos problems are nothing new to the district.

Benjamin Franklin High School had a rushed, officials cannot turn $3.3 billion into a workable and safe system of schools, it should step botched removal of asbestos in 2019 that led to aside and let someone else do the job right. delays and unsafe conditions, costing the dis-

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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STATE OF OUR CITY

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LISTEN UP, SINFUL AND SINLESS

STATE

OF OUR

CITY

THE NEW SUSHI PLACE

Pop Punk/ Alternative Rock-infused Philly band Interkon just released its debut album, “429.” The album is made up of seven hand-selected tracks all written, played and produced by Interkon at its own recording studio in South Philly where the three members are all head engineers. If you haven’t heard, Shep, JOZIE and Kult are are a band for the people – for the misfits, for the lovers, for the sinless and for the sinful. Listen for yourself on all streaming platforms or at linktr.ee/interkon.

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Image | Eddy Marenco

Image | Daytodaychase

Glu Hospitality and Philly’s sushi whisperer Kevin Yanaga have announced the opening of Izakaya by Yanaga in Fishtown at 1832 Frankford Ave. Yanaga will debut two concepts under one roof.

Izakaya by Yanaga will open first just in time for fall dining season, followed by chef’s tasting room Omakase by Yanaga in late fall. Izakaya will open for a Labor Day Weekend preview on Sept. 2 to Sept.

4, from 5pm to 10pm nightly. After closing for Labor Day and additional interior work, Izakaya will officially open for regular daily service starting Sept. 9, with weekly hours running Wednesday to Sunday, 4pm to 10pm nightly. For more information, visit byyanaga.com.

The current number of homicide victims year-todate under Mayor Jim Kenney and District Attorney Larry Krasner’s leadership. This represents a 18 percent increase over the same time last year and is higher than the annual number of homicides that took place in 2008 through 2018.

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Contributors: A.D. Amorosi, A. Benjamin Mannes,Jesse Bunch, Paul Davis, Timaree Schmit, Ryan K. Smith, Stu Bykofsky, Eugene Zenyatta.

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CRIMEBEAT

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George Anastasia’s ‘Blood and Honor: Inside the Scarfo Mob – the Mafia’s Most Violent Family’ covers ‘Little Nicky’ Scarfo’s bloody reign and the internecine mob wars in Philadelphia, where bodies were purposely left on the streets as a message. Image | Courtesy of George Anastasia

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THE SCARFO MOB

A look at Cosa Nostra’s most violent crime family Image | Courtesy of George Anastasia

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good number of readers have asked me how they can learn more about organized crime in Philadelphia, especially during the Nicodemo “Little Nicky” Scarfo era in the 1980s.

I suggest they read former Philadelphia Inquirer reporter George Anastasia’s “Blood and Honor: Inside the Scarfo Mob – the Mafia’s Most Violent Family,” which is perhaps the best book on Philadelphia organized crime. Originally published in 1991, an updated and expanded edition is available through Camino Books.

The book covers Scarfo’s bloody reign and the internecine mob wars in Philadelphia, where bodies were purposely left on the streets as a message. Anastasia’s primary access inside the Scarfo mob was via a cooperating witness named Nick Caramandi.

Being half-Italian and raised in South Philadelphia, the hub of the South Philly-South Jersey Cosa Nostra crime family, I know or know of most of the people and places mentioned in the book. I lived through the Scarfo era, and I’ve interviewed many people who were well-acquainted with Scarfo, from his nephew and underboss-turned cooperating witness, Philip Leonetti, to several detectives and FBI agents who worked the mob back then.

I reached out to Anastasia and asked him

them killed.” why he wrote the book.

How would you describe Scarfo? And how “Serendipity,” Anastasia responded. “Nick Caramandi had begun cooperating and was did he differ from former mob boss Angelo Bruno? being kept in a safe house by the FBI. Cara“Scarfo was a psychopath. He confused mandi had reached out to a book agent in New fear with respect and never really understood York who was putting a deal in place. The FBI what it meant to be boss,” Anastaarranged for Nick to meet with one sia said. “Angelo Bruno ruled with or two reporters from New York, an iron fist covered with a velvet but they didn’t connect. The feds glove. Scarfo saw no reason for the then contacted The Inquirer and glove.” an editor, Bill Marimow, put them How would you describe Carain touch with me. I met with Carmandi? amandi, and we hit it off. I already “I found him fascinating, a great knew the back story, so he felt story-teller and a funny guy. Still comfortable with me. I think the do,” Anastasia said. “In retrospect fact that I was an Italian-American – and I think he agrees – he should helped.” never have gotten made. It gave Why do you call the Scarfo mob him status and power, but it took the most violent mafia family? away his ability to maneuver in the “It was the wanton violence. underworld. He was better off beScarfo used violence as a solution ing an associate who could wheel to any and every problem. That’s a and deal on his own terms.” big reason why it all fell apart,” AnAnastasia said he interviewed astasia explained. “Caramandi coPAULDAVISONCRIME.COM dozens of people, such as lawyers operated, for example, because he and investigators. He was covering figured Scarfo would kill him after the Rouse extortion got screwed up. It wasn’t the mob story for the Inquirer at the time, and that he was worried about going to jail. He had he incorporated that newspaper coverage into the book. already done jail time. But both he and TomScarfo died in prison in 2017. What is the my DelGiorno, who cooperated at the same time, had screwed up and both knew that the legacy of the Scarfo Cosa Nostra crime famiway Scarfo would deal with it was to have ly?

PAUL DAVIS

“What happened in Philadelphia during the Scarfo era happened in almost every other American city where the Mafia operated,” Anastasia said. “So, in that respect Philadelphia was a precursor of what was to come – incompetent leadership, highly sophisticated law enforcement and devastating use of cooperating witnesses.

“This, coupled with the fact that by the 1980s the best and the brightest in the Italian-American community were doctors, lawyers, educators and the mob was scraping the bottom of the gene pool. Angelo Bruno was smart, and he knew how to lead. For him, I think, the Mafia – omerta, men of honor, etc. – was truly a way of life.”

But a generation later that wasn’t the case for a lot of the mob guys, Anastasia noted.

He said the mob was only a way to make money.

“And when they got jammed up, they made a business decision: How do I cut my losses?

By cooperating. And the witness protection program gave them a way out, a chance to walk away. That didn’t exist in the 1930s and 1940s. Different time, different type of gangster. So, all these things factored into the demise of the American Mafia. And it’s never coming back.”

Paul Davis’ Crime Beat column appears here each week. He can be contacted via pauldavisoncrime.com.

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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FEATURED

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Wild Pink to hit Philly in support of latest album, ‘A Billion Little Lights’

LIGHTING IT UP

John Ross and Wild Pink will be appearing at Johnny Brenda’s on Sept.

15 in support of their highly acclaimed album, ‘A Billion Little Lights.’

Image | Mitchell Wojcik

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY One of the recording sessions for Wild Pink’s ‘A Billion Little Lights’ took place right here in Philly.

Image | Mitchell Wojcik

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ild Pink will be in town at icana in their sound has always given their Johnny Brenda’s on Sept. songs a familiar, classicist resonance. On “A 15 in support of their reBillion Little Lights,” there are little details cent album, “A Billion like speckles of auto-tune, flashing synths, Little Lights,” which came and even trip-hop-esque drum loops that subout back in February. tly yet effectively rebuff the notion that Wild Hailed by Stereogum Pink’s music yearns for a bygone era: the alas “one of the most exqui- bum sounds at once timeless and unmistaksitely pretty rock albums ably modern. in recent memory” and named “2021’s best Get tickets for Wild Pink’s show at Johnny rock album” by NY Mag/Vulture, “A Billion Brenda’s at eventbrite.com.

Little Lights” was one of the year’s most critPW recently caught up with Ross to talk ically revered albums, seeing additional praise about the album and upcoming show. from the likes of NPR, Pitchfork, The AV Club, Wild Pink has been around since 2015.

Uproxx, Paste, Billboard, MTV, FADER, KEXP, How did you get together?

Consequence, BrooklynVegan and more. The The lineup has changed a lot since 2015, album saw frontman John Ross exthough the core group came togethplore life and love across the United er around 2016 when Dan joined States, ruminating on the small moTC and I for the S/T album. I had BY: EUGENE ments while simultaneously keepmet Dan at a show in 2013 and we ZENYATTA ing an eye on existential issues. became Facebook friends. Then we The band, which is rounded out needed a drummer right before a by bassist T.C. Brownell and drummer Dan lengthy tour and recording the S/T and luckKeegan, formed in New York City in 2015 and ily Dan was down for it. put out a handful of EPs before releasing their Your third album, “A Billions Little critically acclaimed self-titled debut in 2017.

Lights,” dropped in February and was It was a sophisticated showing for a band’s called your most ambitious to date by Upfirst album, but it was the striking maturation set Magazine. How is it different from your of “Yolk In The Fur” in 2018 that established previous albums? How did it come together, Wild Pink’s unique sound: a glistening variand did the pandemic pose any challenges? ety of pastoral indie-rock akin to The War On My goal for “A Billion Little Lights” was to Drugs, Death Cab For Cutie, and Kurt Vile, but make a dreamy, big sounding album. I wasn’t informed by classic American rock poets like trying to pivot to a new idea. The S/T and Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty.

“Yolk In The Fur” were headed in that direcEven though Wild Pink was operating withtion already and “A Billion Little Lights” was in the relatively modest world of contempolike the final installment of the trilogy. It was rary indie-rock, critics likened them to the all pretty much finished just as the pandemic types of revered rock auteurs who rack up kicked off so that didn’t affect the production Grammy nominations. So for “A Billion Little of the tunes, though it definitely put a wrench Lights,” they actually made that leap. The rein the release plans – especially when it comes cord was produced, mixed, and co-engineered to touring on this album. by producer David Greenbaum, who’s worked You told Atwood Magazine that one of with the likes of Beck, U2, Cage The Elephant, the recording sessions that stood out to you and Jenny Lewis. Like all Wild Pink records, took place in Philly. Can you talk a little the songs were entirely written and arranged about that session?

by Ross, who shaped them into high-quality The Philly session was a lot of fun because demos over the course of a year in his new so many of the instrumentalists recorded home in New York’s Hudson Valley. But unthere over two days. Mike ‘Slo-Mo’ Brenner like previous Wild Pink albums, Ross enlisted did all his pedal steel parts plus all the piano, a deep bench of session musicians and friends accordion and a lot of the strings were done to perform a litany of additional instruments, over the two days. It was a pretty blissful 48 finally granting Ross’s musical visions the hours as these ridiculously good players came space and sonic resources they needed to in and did their thing over the songs. I owe achieve their finest forms.

Mike Brenner for sourcing the players and reThe 10 songs on “A Billion Little Lights” cording engineer for that. are adorned with fiddles, violins, wurlitzers, How eager are you to get back on stage? saxophones, accordions, pedal steel guitars, What will your fans see when they show up and a variety of richly textured synths and at Johnny Brenda’s on Sept. 15? keyboards. In addition to the instrumentation, I’m so, so excited to get back to touring.

Julia Steiner of the Chicago band Ratboys We’ll be doing the whole album as a five-piece provides beautiful harmonies throughout the on this tour and anyone who likes the new alrecord. On past records, Ross’s breathy delivbum is going to love the live show. ery rarely raised above a hushed murmur, but What’s ahead for Wild Pink? And what here he sings with a melodic confidence that are the best ways for your fans to stay curmakes songs like “Pacific City,” “Die Outside,” rent with what you’re doing? and “The Shining But Tropical” some of the We’re doing a new album this fall that I’m catchiest, most anthemic cuts in the Wild Pink very excited for. Follow us on Twitter, Instacatalog. The band has never sounded dated or gram and Facebook to get updates on that plus nostalgic, but the lingering twinge of Amermore tours.

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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GOSSIP

THE LABOR DAY

BLUES

How can we celebrate when so much is going wrong?

Image | Joshua Olsen

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

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ICEPACK

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elcoming in Labor Day as itolo Recreation Center playground’s b-ball an annual national holcourt for a shoot, as well as its neighboring iday – even though it is Ray’s Happy Birthday Bar, and again at andedicated to the can-do other basketball court at 24th & Snyder with spirit of America’s work76er Tobias Harris on the mat. Yes, there’s a force, an Eisenhower-ian Reddit thread about how someone yelled out, ideal if ever there was, but “Where’s Ben Simmons?” to which Harris restill sturdy – is a tricky, sponded, “I’m not his dad.” Yes, if Harris was even sad proposition now only always that clever on the court. To the that so many workers are hoop with that joke. Keep an eye out in the missing the fruits of their next several weeks for more “Hustle” action labor, and so many others are questioning just in town. And don’t be surprised if Sandler, what their fruited labor is worth in this a time James and fams show up at Made in America of crisis such as COVID, of social justice and for the extended holiday. regarding Philly/Delco’s rampant, everyday More Kurry Shacks street violence that wrongly keeps protecI can’t pretend that I know too much about tion at bay from hard-working homeowners, owner/operator Shafi Gaffar’s Kurry Shack families with children and such. What does it enterprise. But I do get that if he has enough mean to have pride in one’s work with such a dough and turmeric to open three brand new mess surrounding you daily? Sorry if I sound restaurants in three different neighborhoods like a crepe hanger here on the cusp of a long around Philadelphia while readying two more off-work holiday. Hey, though: at least they’ll Shacks to be announced later this year, I see be barbecues, shore trips and Made in Amerclearly that Gaffar is a serious contender in ica. Drink up. the North Indian influenced cooking stakes.

Shout out to Chloe owners Kurry Shacks just opened in the Center City/ We’re usually so busy at Icepack CenRittenhouse area (2101 Chestnut), Francisville tral celebrating the opening of new (1839 Poplar) and Old City (6 N. 3rd) restaurants that I hardly get the oplast week; those in addition to the K portunity to hail heartily a culinary Shack already open and recently exBY: A.D entrepreneur who has been in the panded in Brewerytown, at 2015 E. AMOROSI trenches for a minute, one of Philly’s Moyamensing Avenue. Impressive. chef-ing veterans. This week, I’d like New Nothing album to shout out one of the most charmThis one is a ways away, but its ing couples I’ve ever met (at a La Parnarda at very announcement sends chills up my spine, Le Virtu, yet – spend 10 hours hardcore dining just as it should yours if you are an avid Nothand drinking with someone cool and unique, ing fan like me. Philly’s favorite dark wave/ and you’ll never forget them), Mary Ann Ferdoom metal/dishy dusky shoegaze ensemble rie and Dan Grimes, the owners of Chloe, have an upcoming album, “The Great Dismal BYOB in Old City, who after nearly 21 years B-Sides,” that not only collects tracks left on of innovative comfort fooding, closed up shop the cutting room floor during its sessions for at 2nd & Arch, due to everything from this their neo-classic “The Great Dismal” elpee. miserable pandemic to family health issues.

The new album, to be released on Oct. 8 on “How do we sum up Chloe? Joyous, exhilaRelapse Records, features three new songs – rating, magnificent, insane, crazy fun, festive, one of them having a local spin. That would be delicious, blessed, exhausting, backbreaking, “The Great Dismal,” “Amber Gambler,” and a amazing, filled with love,” both owners wrote cover tune from the legendarily Philadelphian on Instagram on Sunday night. The Chloe soul vocal outfit, The Delfonics, with “La La folk shared a quote from Dr. Seuss that manMeans I Love You.” Damn, that sounds creepy. aged to be almost as charming as the couple And too Tarantino-ish if you love Jackie themselves: “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile Brown. Nothing will also play Philly on Oct. because it happened.” Such optimism is con- 16 at Union Transfer. I know my first song retagious. Someone find these two a new venue. quest already.

‘Hustle’ back in town Specter squash We knew that Adam Sandler, producer The new Arlen Specter US Squash Center LeBron James and the cast and crew of “Hus- – huh – dedicated to the memory of the longtle” would be back in Philly to finish off their time U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania just Netflix baller film, because you told us, and opened at the Armory. No word yet when its because we believe everything that Adam Magic Bullet Theory wing will open (it will Sandler says. We just didn’t think that they however be down, and to the left) and where would be back until October. Yet, there they its changing parties dressing room will be were – a “Hustle” film crew led by director lodged. (and Philly’s own) Jeremiah Zagar (of the beDon’t forget JAW loved South Street Zagar arts family) – at CapLast week, when I made mention of the Ea-

GOSSIP

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gles practice camp, I missed mentioning wide receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside – a true superstar in the making. Shame on me. Here’s hoping he makes the squad.

Masked Philly: Lili Anel In Icepack’s way too-long and now way overly complex and continuing saga of asking mask-donning local celebrities what they’ve been up to, beyond the pale, during C-19 – from lockdown to the current reopening, present-day unmasking and re-masking, worrying about Delta variants, freaking out about Fauci’s call for a potential third round of vax shots and new mask and vax card mandates – I reached out this week to Lili Anel.

Famously, Anel moved from El Barrio Spanish Harlem NYC to Philleeee in 2004, never looked back and continued releasing her own patented brand of jazzy, Latino tinged folk on albums such as 2007’s “Dream Again” and 2018’s “In Spirit.” Much of her newly released album, “Better Days (Remastered)”, has everything to do with the mess that is COVID, Delta, what have you, but why rush ahead when we can find out just what the constantly touring, constantly album-dropping Anel did throughout the pandemic’s slowdown to ease her worried mind and quell boredom?

“I resumed knitting,” says Anel. “I originally learned how to knit years ago, but, like most things, you don’t use it, you lose it. I

didn’t lose it completely. This time, however, I did attempt some more advanced patterns. OK I failed miserably, but I tried.”

As far as masking faces and vaxxing goes, Anel loves her facemask. “I have a friend in California who was making masks for hospital workers,” says Anel. “She made a series of masks, one with my favorite superhero, Superman. I liken COVID-19 to Kryptonite and the mask protects me. I am vaccinated. I have asthma and Alopecia (autoimmune disease that brings other issues besides hair loss). I don’t want COVID or any breakthrough mutation. I have already lost seven friends to COVID. Vaccination is the only way out of this thing.”

Back to the saga of “Better Days (Remastered).” She originally released “Better Days” right before the pandemic hit, never got a chance to tour it, and is now re-releasing it with new songs added. “I have a run of shows scheduled in the fall and I look forward to performing live once again. I have the re-release due out on Oct. 1 of ‘Better Days (Remastered),’ a remix of my end of 2019 release, ‘Better Days’ that I believe deserves a second push.’ It was beginning to gain traction when the pandemic showed up. And yes, there are Better Days ahead, so it’s appropriate.”

@ADAMOROSI

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Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2021

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

10

MUSIC

Philly quintet Grayscale recently dropped its third fulllength album, ‘Umbra.’ Find it on streaming platforms everywhere.

Image | Fearless Records

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CATCHING UP

with GRAY

Philly band drops album, hits the stage again

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

SCALE P

hiladelphia alt-rock band Gray- stories of broken hearts, bad drugs, blissful scale has announced its third sex, and busted dreams and turned them into full-length album, “Umbra,” one alternative rock cult favorite after anoththe follow up to 2019’s “Nella er. Then, they crossed into the next dimenVita” and 2017’s desion with a bold depiction of the big but “Adornment.” sound they’d always hinted at upliftBY: EUGENE The album finds the ed on a high of gospel harmonies, ZENYATTA band – Collin Walsh horn solos, and the kind of lyrics (lead vocals), Andrew you get tattooed in places you want Kyne (guitar), Nick Ventimiglia people to see (and places you don’t (bass), Dallas Molster (guitar), and Nick Veno want people to see). (drums) – not reborn, but refined as they truly “This band is how we express ourselves,” came into their sound.

Walsh said. “I come from an old-school Irish Their story: Five best friends got together family that didn’t talk about feelings. This and started a band. They took intimate urban band means so much to me, because I’ve been

MUSIC

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY best friends with these guys since I was 13 years old. We’ve known each other for 60 percent of our lives at this point. These are real stories. We love what we do. It’s why we’re re alive.

“In a celestial sense, ‘Umbra’ is the area of complete darkness in an eclipse. It’s a shadowy interior that would otherwise be surrounded by light. The sound of the record is pop rock on the outside, but when you listen to what I’m saying, the stories on the inner core are sexual, vindictive, and wicked. That’s the concept. It reflects the authenticity of who we are as an East Coast rock band. We’re not trying to be anything other than exactly what we are.”

PW recently caught up with Walsh to talk

about the new music and the band.

You guys have been together since you were teenagers. How has the band and your music evolved over the years? Why do you think you’ve been able to achieve so much success?

We’ve evolved quite a bit since the start and are still evolving. While we are so grateful for the success we’ve had thus far, we are still growing as human beings and as musicians; in many ways we feel like we’re just getting started.

Talk a little about the Philly music scene. Has being from this city impacted your music? Are there any local artists who’ve influenced your sound?

While I can’t pinpoint a specific artist that

has influenced us, I can say with certainty that the art, history, and attitude of Philly are all elements that have shaped us as people and as musicians over the years. We are so proud to be a part of the Philadelphia community; we want to make our city proud.

Talk a little about “Umbra.” How did it come together? How is it different from your first two albums?

“Umbra” is our third full-length record, and our favorite record of our career so far.

We have pretty much been working on it since the release of our previous record, “Nella Vita.” While the same five band members were behind the creation of the record, the producer, approach, and considerations were totally different. We made Umbra with our

11

dear friend Courtney Ballard, an LA-based producer. Together, we focused on truly finding the sound that we wanted more so than any record we had done in the past. With an increased confidence and acumin under our belts, we felt that, for the first time, we have really found the path we are meant to be on sonically, pulling all the influences that we love and that make up Grayscale in its truest form. We have a wonderful team of people around us that we cannot thank enough.

How can people get the album?

“Umbra” is available worldwide on pretty much every internet/streaming platform you can think of. You can get it directly from us, along with learning more about the record and the band on our website, grayscalepa. com.

What’s ahead for you? Back in the studio? Any live shows coming up?

Tour, baby. We’re going to be all over the U.S. for the rest of the summer, and then again on the Umbra Tour (our headlining tour) this fall. Those tickets actually just went on sale, you can get them at grayscalepa.com as well!

What are the best ways for your fans to stay current with what you’re doing?

So many good ways to keep in touch with us. Follow us on socials at @grayscalepa or text us anytime at 215-4361-3693.

Philly’s Grayscale is eager to hit the road again, now that the pandemic restrictions are easing. Image | Fearless Records

Thom Carroll

Enjoy the Region’s Trails

Run, walk or bike. Relax or play. Get into nature. Do what you love #OnTheCircuit.

circuittrails.org/mycircuittrails PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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THE RUNDOWN

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THE RUNDOWN Image | Nathan Ansell

Murder ‘80s style

Devil’s Den is traveling back in time for “Gnarly Carnage: Murder ‘80s Style,” a bloody good evening of true crime stories and conversation hosted by homicide investigator Sarah Cailean, with ’80s-inspired cocktail flights, pub fare, trivia, prizes and an in-depth tale of infamous true crime cases and killers from the ’80s, on Sept. 9 from 7 – 9pm. The 1980s aren’t just famous for synth music, big bangs, and Rubiks Cubes, it’s the decade that gave the world Molly Ringwald, Elton John, Duran Duran, and most importantly – some of the most well-known murders and crimes, including Richard Ramirez who is also known as the Night Stalker, Jeffrey Dahmer, Larry Eyler, and many more. devilsdenphilly.com

CRAFTS, FILMS AND MORE

Summer is almost over, but there are still a lot of fun things to do around the city. Here are a few of the events you’ll want to check out.

Adult craft night

Join Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens for an inperson adult craft night. Guests are invited to enjoy a casual evening in the sparkling mosaicked space. For this event, they’ll be providing supplies and instructions to create a mosaic medallion and mini bottle cap mosaics. Participants are encouraged to bring food and drinks to enjoy while they craft. 1020 South Street. Sept. 9, 6:30 – 8:30pm. phillymagicgardens.org

Image | Courtesy of Philadelphia Magic Gardens

Films from 2001

SOUR PROM Dance Party

Dr Livingston Presents ‘RUB HARDER’

Wine Gala

In honor of the Philadelphia Film Society’s 20th anniversary, PFS is celebrating films that debuted on the big screen in 2001 and have entertained audiences for two decades. Check out “Donnie Darko” Sept. 7 at the PFS Drive-In at the Navy Yard. Tickets: $12 / $8 for PFS members, $7 for children 12 and under. For more information please visit: Filmadelphia.org.

Image | Courtesy of Devil’s Den

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Brian Sanders’ JUNK joins forces with Jasmine Zieroff, co-creator of the erotic 2012 Fringe hit “RUB,” for “RUB HARDER” for this year’s Fringe Festival. Get hot, heavy – and hard – for art. Prepare to be blown away by 45-minute homo-erotica, male cabaret lounge performances while surrounded by parking lot tiki kitsch, and Blow Pops at the Candy Bar. Cleanse yourself at the cash booze bar, and sit back and indulge while “experienced” rule-breakers steam up your glasses and tear down your ideals. Take in the sights of open-air bathing, men in kilts on a trampoline, fire rites, and a twerking contest open to the public. Shows at 9pm and 11pm. 200 Spring Garden Street. Sept. 3 to Oct. 2. fringearts.com

Presented by Riot Nerd. Sept. 3 from 9pm - 2am at Underground Arts. 21-plus and proof of vax required.

Prom photos by Pop Up Polaroid. Prom attire is encouraged but not required. Prom decor, themed drink specials, and more. Tons of Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift and other similar artists. Brought to you by the same people that throw Shake It Off: Taylor & Friends Dance Party. Tickets are on sale now. riotnerdphilly.com

Resources for Human Development will host its Main Line Wine Gala on Sept. 30 at the Appleford Estate in Villanova. The annual event is going al fresco this year to showcase the world’s most exclusive winemakers while benefiting RHD’s innovations in human services.

Groth Vineyards & Winery is the featured winery for the evening. For more information: mainlinewinegala.com

THE RUNDOWN

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Delco Arts Week

The Delaware County Arts Consortium is inviting the public to experience every facet of the arts over eight days during the third annual Delco Arts Week, Oct. 2 - 9. Delaware County will host more than 60 events – including many free to the public – from concerts, film, and dance, to exhibitions, festivals, theater, kids’ activities and more. Visitors and Delaware County residents alike will have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of events for people of all ages as Delco artists and performers share their talents and love of the arts.

For more details, including a regularly updated schedule of events, please visit DelcoArts.org.

o k out.

If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss these upcoming presentations and exhibits.

Image | Courtesy of Delco Arts Week

Art, art and more art ‘Mind Carnival’

“Mind Carnival” combines conceptual art foundations with narrative text and appropriated cultural iconography in an aesthetic pursuit of investigation. David Deakin, artisan and visual philosopher, uses cultural symbols and historical analysis to convey the effects of prevailing sociopolitical powers on the human mind. The exhibition is open at Da Vinci Art Alliance in Galleries 1 and 2 through Oct. 28 by appointment. davinciartalliance. org

‘Plein Air Guitar’

An exhibition titled “Plein Air Guitar” at See/Hear Now Pop-Up Gallery, as part of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival 2021, is scheduled on Sept. 18, 1-6 pm and Sept. 19, 1-4 pm. This exhibition is the first solo exhibition of Derek Ayres’ work in Philadelphia and will feature 20 new watercolors. Ayres is exhibiting 20 matted and framed images on paper consisting of watercolor primarily with touches of gouache and ink. The images follow a similar format: the placement of an opaquely rendered and outlined guitar amp placed into a soft focus, impressionistic landscape. fringearts.com

Linda Dubin Garfield

Artist Linda Dubin Garfield participated in the Philly Fringe Festivals from 2006-2016 creating art on various topics and inviting the public to join her in mixed media memoir workshops at The Book Trader on 2nd Street near Market Street. This year, she is having a retrospective of the 11 years work (both hers and the participants’) at the Old City Jewish Art Center, 119 N. 3rd Street in Old City Sept. 9- 26.

There will be a workshop on Sept.12, 1-3pm, for participants to create their own mixed media works on paper. Materials will be provided but participants are encouraged to bring specific things (photos, papers, ribbons, etc) they want to include in their art. lindadubingarfield.com

Rock art

The art of the Beatles and Rolling Stones is being exhibited for the first time in a rare collection of their hand-signed artwork at Dane Fine Art in Rittenhouse Square. This special collection includes limited edition signed art by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and RIngo Starr, along with Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones. This exhibition will run through Sept. 12, and admission is free. 116 S. 19th St. danefineart.com

Image | Courtesy of Linda Dubin Garfield

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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THE RUNDOWN

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Winding Way Records Presents: Music in the Park

Come out to enjoy a free socially-distanced outdoor concert featuring Ella Beyer, Lauren Mendelsohn and Evelyn Brown. It will be held at the Clem Macrone Park in Bryn Mawr on Sept. 11 at 4pm. The gate opens at 3pm. Bring a blanket, chairs, etc. to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Feel free to bring food and beverage (no alcohol permitted) and please pack out your trash. More information on the event and the performers can be found at windingwayrecords.com.

Live music is back.

Here are some concerts you’ll want to experience for yourself.

Rock on, rock out Image: wikimedia.org

ERRA

ERRA will play Franklin Music Hall on Sept. 9 with August Burns Red. This will be the first time the band has toured since the release of their highly lauded self-titled record that came out earlier this year via UNFD. It’s their most massive album to date – filled with genius technical riffs along with enchanting/ cerebral melodies and immersive soundscapes. It confronts depression, anxiety and desperation throughout.

Tickets: axs.com

Soccer Mommy

Soccer Mommy – a.k.a. Nashville native Sophie Allison – released her criticallyacclaimed sophomore album “color theory” last year, earning countless accolades and year-end list nods. She is finally bringing the album on tour and making a stop at Union Transfer on Sept.

18. utphilly.com

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Nation of Language

Nation of Language will release their sophomore album, “A Way Forward,” on Nov. 5. The Brooklyn trio returned to the stage recently for the first of three soldout NYC shows in the next five weeks, and will hit Johnny Brenda’s on Sept. 9. A third single, “This Fractured Mind,” arrived earlier this month, with a video that acts as an ode to lost summer moments.

Tickets: eventbrite.com

Yo La Tengo

Yo La Tengo will be at Union Transfer on Sept. 21. The show comes on the heels of the first anniversary of the band’s latest effort, “Sleepless Night,” a six-song EP with one new tune (“Bleeding,” a windswept ballad where delicate guitar melodies give way to cyclonic fuzz) plus covers of songs by The Byrds, The Delmore Brothers, Bob Dylan, Ronnie Lane, and The Flying Machine. utphilly. com

THE RUNDOWN

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Art in the Age

Old City’s esteemed tasting room, home bar supply, and bottle shop, invites imbibers to sip on a hand-crafted artisanal bottled cocktail – chilled to perfection – in the lush, dog-friendly Cocktail Garden, located outside the shop on North Third Street. Tipples available from the summer menu include the Punch Drunk Love, Smoke Signals, Snap Pea Margarita, and more! While the shop is closed on Labor Day itself, cocktail lovers are welcome all Labor Day Weekend during standard hours of operation: Saturday noon7pm, and Sunday noon-6pm. 116 N. Third St. | 215.922.2600 | artintheage.com

Celebrate Labor Day this weekend with these great deals.

Image | Courtesy of Art in the Age

Eat, drink and be merry this Labor Day Assembly Rooftop Lounge

Center City’s chic rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the ideal venue for dining al fresco over the long weekend. Come for the elegant fare and craft beverages, stay for the iconic views – especially this weekend when Philadelphia’s annual music festival and celebration Made in America is happening. This year, guests and festival-goers are invited to enjoy happy hour, available Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm – 6pm, with offerings spanning a robust menu of small bites, craft cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass. 1840 Benjamin Franklin Parkway | 215.963.2723 | assemblyrooftop.com

Café Ynez

The Mexico-City inspired all-day diner located on Washington Avenue in South Philly boasts an exquisite weekday and weekend brunch service and daily dinner offerings for folks staying in town for the holiday weekend to enjoy. Diners may dig into an array of dishes including the Tacos de Pescade ($13), composed of pan-seared tilapia, topped with freshly made pineapple habanero salsa, sliced avocado, lettuce, cotija cheese, served with a side of sour cream, and placed on a soft corn tortilla.

2025 Washington Ave | 215.278.7579 | cafeynez.com

Franky Bradley’s

Mark Bee’s effervescent funk- and kitsch-filled nostalgic restaurant and bar in the heart of Center City’s Midtown Village offers a jam-packed schedule of late summer events, including an evening of Golden Girls-inspired drag with the buzzed about Hot Flashbacks: A Golden Girls Musical Adventure on Sunday, Sept. 5 at 7pm.

Enjoy the evening of laughter, surprises, and fun without the Sunday Scaries settling in. 1320 Chancellor St | 215.735.0735 | frankybradleys.com

Sor Ynez

This Mexican inspired veg-focused restaurant is a go-to for quality, authentic Mexican fare and the ideal spot for dining out with friends to celebrate a three-day holiday weekend. Diners may enjoy signature dishes prepared

by Executive Chef Alexis Tellez such as the Vegan Mixiote ($18), composed of eggplant, chayote squash, nopales, celery root, kale, steamed in banana leaves, topped off with tangy chipotle sauce, and served with fried red onions and rice. 1800 N. American Street | 215-309-2582 | sorynez.com

Image | Courtesy of Sor Ynez

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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SEX WITH TIMAREE

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

Radical Permissionist and ‘$7 Girl’

“Radical Permissionist is a term I first the company, “explores the personal, political, heard used by intimacy coach and self-deand industrial aspects of sex and sexuality scribed ‘pleasure warrior’ Dr. Hazel-Grace as Mae questions the possibility of a world in Yates. Those words really resonated with me which their worth is no longer attached to dilas a title that I felt finally encompassed all of dos and dollar signs.” my work as an erotic laborer, as well as my “I’ve been a sex worker for seven years personal ideals around intimanow,” says West. “I began as a cy,” says Mae West, lead artist stripper, and now have expeand performer in the upcoming rience across many areas of production “$7 Girl.” the industry, both online and “To me, a Radical Permisin-person, under criminalized sionist is someone who pursues and legalized conditions. I’ve and embraces pleasure, for been very privileged to always themselves and for others, with work indoors, and have done a focus on eradicating shame erotic labor both by choice and and welcoming the complexity as a means to survive undermake it ha and diversity of desire. Radical chooses. capitalism.

Permissionism is for everyone, “Much of my work centers Despite and pertains not only to sex, but advocacy for the decriminal-which firs to everyday life,” says the Memization of pleasure and sexno longer phis-born artist who moved to work in all its forms.” They addon their s Philly four years ago. that they also volunteer for or-few days l @TIMAREE_LEIGH They add, “I feel like this ganizations that support sexcial and s

DR. TIMAREE SCHMIT

philosophy is easier to understand when shown rather than described, which is exactly what ‘$7 Girl’ seeks to do.” “$7 Girl” is the latest piece by Almanac Dance Circus Theater, a group that devises autobiographical performance art and includes a lot more flipping and aerials than your standard stage production.

This show examines West’s experiences as a queer, trans sex worker and, according to

workers, likeers.

“I watc Philadelphia’s loved one Project Safe.

The timingsituations for this show isto surviv as relevant ascome bac ever, West says.“It doesn Folks in sexualthis way, industries arewe can more and moredecrimina marginalized sure auto in the era of er worki FOSTA-SESTA, for ALL including in le-the sex tra gal spheres like But des stripping andis optimis porn. Adult en-tious, esp tertainment – athe potent field largely populated by women, as well aslike we’re queer, trans, disabled and otherwise margin-ple are ea alized people – faces banking discrimination,most vuln social media censorship, and stigma that cansay, addin

“Adult entertainment – a field largely populated by women, as well as queer, trans, disabled and otherwise marginalized people – faces banking discrimination, social media censorship, and stigma that can make it hard to leave the industry if a person chooses.”

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

SEX WITH TIMAREE

learn more and sign up for early access at nourity.com

, political, sexuality a world in hed to dil-

ven years egan as a ave expeareas of nline and minalized ions. I’ve to always have done hoice and ive undermake it hard to leave the industry if a person chooses. k centers Despite the dramatic 180 turn by Only Fans, ecriminal-which first announced last week they would and sexno longer allow depictions of sexual activity They addon their site, only to “suspend” the changes a eer for or-few days later, there is still an ongoing finanpport sexcial and social war being waged on sex workrs, likeers. elphia’s “I watch as my co-workers, friends, and t Safe. loved ones enter risky timingsituations every day just is show isto survive. Some don’t levant ascome back,” says West.

West says.“It doesn’t have to be in sexualthis way, and together ries arewe can work towards and moredecriminalization to ennalized sure autonomy and safe era of er working conditions A-SESTA, for ALL people within ing in le-the sex trade.” heres like But despite this, West ing andis optimistic and ambiAdult en-tious, especially about nment – athe potential impact of this production. “I feel as well aslike we’re at a social tipping point where peoe margin-ple are eager to take action for those who are imination,most vulnerable in our communities,” they a that cansay, adding that “it’s so rare to see these issues

‘$7 Girl’ explores the personal, political, and industrial aspects of sex and sexuality as lead performer Mae West questions the possibility of a world in which their worth is no longer attached to dildos and dollar signs. Image | Dee Melody (@gogogooplet)

Stimulus Check? Rent? Food? School? Reopening? Green Phase?

Testing? COVID19? Safety? Voting? Stimulus Check? Rent? Food?

OVERWHELMED, School? Reopening? Green Phase? Testing?

COVID19? Safety? tackled on stage in this way. I believe expanding people’s personal views on sex and labor inevitably catalyzes deeper thinking about capitalism, white-supremacy, and the worth we subconsciously attach to others, which is absolutely necessary to spark social change.”

West has been working on this project for about two years, and while they will be performing it solo, the piece is a collaboration with other Philly artists. It’s co-directed by Mia Donata Rocchio and Ben Grinberg, in collaboration with Nathan Alford-Tate. Emma Luz contributed sound design and original music. “$7 Girl” is appropriate for audiences 18 years and older, and includes discussions of sexual abuse, violence, and sexual situations.

Tickets are available now for the first look showings Sept. 19-25 at the MAAS building, as part of the 2021 Philadelphia Fringe Festival.

Have a question for Dr. Timaree? Send an email to asktimaree@philadelphiaweekly.com.

“I feel like we’re at a social tipping point where people are eager to take action for those who are most vulnerable in our communities.”

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18

VOICES

OF OUR

CITY

How the COVID IP waiver could sabotage cancer research President Biden craves a cure for cancer. In a speech to Congress this spring, he vowed to “end cancer as we know it.” And as vice president, he helped start the Cancer Moonshot initiative.

Yet by giving his backing to a global waiver of intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccines, Biden may have endangered millions of Americans living with cancer.

The Biden administration has said that it would join a World Trade Organization move to suspend IP safeguards for the vaccines. Its intentions are no doubt sincere, founded in the belief that a waiver will help rid the world of COVID. Yet the setting aside of IP protections has consequences that the administration seems to have overlooked.

If adopted, the waiver won’t galvanize the supply of vaccines bound for the developing world – certainly not in the immediate term.

What it will do is threaten scientific innovation that could lead to cures for cancer and other diseases.

I’ll explain why. Technically, the waiver supported by the United States would only apply to IP on COVID vaccines. So what has this got to do with cancer?

There are two consequences. First, intellectual property underpins scientists’ incentives to make discoveries. Without proprietary “armor” to protect research, rivals could blithely – and lawfully – use scientists’ know-how, data, or manufacturing processes.

Second, waiving IP on underlying vaccine technology has ramifications for drug innovation. Since the same technologies are used for potential treatments for other diseases, vaccine-makers would have to give up IP on those projects too.

Consider the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. They use “mRNA” to promote an immune response to COVID-19, a technology that took decades to develop. With the suc-

cessful rollout of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, researchers in the United States and Germany now hope they can use mRNA to fight other viruses. Moderna has active trials for mRNA vaccines for Zika, HIV, and the flu.

Cancer doctors and patients pray that mRNA is the key to a cure. Moderna, in fact, has two mRNA vaccine candidates for cancer.

Researchers hope that mRNA could instruct the body to combat cancerous tumors like it fights a virus.

With the IP waiver, Moderna’s mRNA technology could end up with rivals, leaving the company with greatly diminished incentives – and greatly diminished investment dollars – to continue with mRNA clinical trials, including ones for cancer.

Advanced drug innovation could come to a halt. What investor would fund biotech startups if copycats can swoop in?

This scenario is made especially distressing by the fact that the upsides of the IP waiver are negligible. Manufacturers need specialized facilities and hundreds of ingredients to make vaccines. Vaccine-makers have struck licensing deals to scale up production. Every facility on earth that can safely produce effective vaccines is already doing so. Getting rid of IP won’t make the scale-up go any faster. It could, however, unleash millions of shoddy copycats and even counterfeit vaccine doses.

Biden has shown how he can help vaccinate the world without holding mRNA research hostage. For instance, he has already agreed to donate 580 million of the United States’ surplus vaccine doses to COVAX COVID a WHO, CEPI, and Gavi co-led initiative to distribute COVID-19 vaccines to developing countries.

With Biden, the cancer community has an ally in the White House. And yet, with the IP waiver, he’s undermining the only industry that may find a cure for cancer.

Andrew Spiegel, esquire, is the executive director of the Global Colon Cancer Association.

SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

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THE SHOUT OUT

Labor Day weekend is only days away.

Your turn: How will you be celebrating? Made in America? A barbecue? Something else?

Send your thoughts to voices@philadelphiaweekly.com

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NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE WHEREAS, on May 19, 2011, a certain mortgage was executed by Emily A. Guidotti, as mortgagor in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS MORTGAGEE, AS NOMINEE FOR URBAN FINANCIAL GROUP INC., ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County in Mortgage Document ID 52358553 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 1221 Dickinson Street Philadelphia, PA 19147, parcel number 012435900(“Property”); and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by Emily Guidotti and Vincent Guidotti by entireties by virtue of deed recorded November 4, 1983 in Book: 00877 Page: 149; and WHEREAS, Record Owner Vincent Guidotti died on July 13, 1998. By operation of law title vests solely in Emily Guidotti and Vincent Guidotti is hereby released of liability pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1144. Emily Guidotti died on July 18, 2018 intestate and is survived by her heirs-at-law, Vincent Guidotti, Jr., Joseph Guidotti, Anthony Guidotti and Maria Edelstein aka Maria Guidotti; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on December 27, 2016 in Document ID 53153253, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (a)(i)), as Emily A. Guidotti died on July 18, 2018, and that upon the death the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of January 11, 2021 is $330,814.19 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable;

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HAPPY WINDOWS

NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on September 29, 2011 in Misc. Instrument #: 52395684, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that at September 8, 2021 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Philadelphia City Hall located at Broad Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 all real property and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises will be sold at public action to the highest bidder: The land hereinafter referred to is situated in the City of Philadelphia, County of Philadelphia, State of PA, and is described as follows: All that certain lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, described according to a survey and plan thereof made by Charles F. Puff, Jr., Surveyor and Regulator of the 2nd Survey District on 04/26/1916 as follows to wit: Situate on the North side of Dickinson Street (50 feet wide) at the distance of 232 feet Westward from the West side of 12th Street (50 feet wide) in the 1st Ward of the City of Philadelphia.Containing in front or breadth on said Dickinson Street 16 feet 6 inches and extending of that width in length or depth Northward between lines parallel with said 12th Street 67 feet 3 inches.

Together with the free and common use, right, liberty and privilege of the certain 2 feet wide alley which extends Northward into Wilder Street as and for a passageway and watercourse at all times hereafter forever, in common with the owners and tenants and occupiers of the other lots of ground bounding thereon and entitled to the use thereof.

APN: 012435900\ Being known as 1221 Dickinson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 The sale will be held on September 8, 2021 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Philadelphia City Hall located at Broad Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $330,814.19 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale.

The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $330,814.19 as of January 11, 2021, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein.

KML LAW GROUP, P.C. Foreclosure Commissioners (215-825-6305)

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Public Notice

Public Notice

Notice is hereby given that Follow Through Capital has submitted a Remedial Investigation Report/Cleanup Plan to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Southeast Regional Office, to demonstrate attainment of a combination of the residential site-specific and statewide health standards for a portion of the site located at 3320 Collins Street in Philadelphia. Follow Through Capital has indicated that the remediation measures taken will attain compliance with the residential site-specific and statewide health cleanup standards established under the Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act. This notice is made under the provision of the Land Recycling and Environmental Remediation Standards Act, the Act of May 19, 1995, P.L. #4, No. 2.

AT&T proposes to modify an existing facility (new tip heights 197.3’ & 198.3’) on the building at 18 W Chelten Ave, Philadelphia, PA (20210840). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2021

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