PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE
PRH Unplugged
VOLUME 16 ISSUE 26 2012
RowHome goes
BACK TO THE BEACH
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VOLUME _16 ISSUE 26_ 2012 gohomephilly.com
Insidethis issue 14_ LIFE 14_Corner Reunion
69_Taking Care of Business by Bob O’Brien
18_City Hall Report Card by Larry Gallone
70_Pills, Rings & things with Strings This is not your mother’s birth control! by Dr. Richard Dittrich & JoAnn Casella, CPN
20_A “Nasty” 10-letter Word by Zack Burgess
72_The heart of the matter by Lauren Gordon
18_POLITICS
23_THE MENU 24_A Sporting Good Time by Bob O’Brien 26_Milk or Dark--Which one do you CHEWS? by Just Born, INC. 30_Summer Sweets: Isgro Pastries’ Summer Catalog
31_ON THE WATERFRONT 32_Ocean Breeze Condominiums – Wildwood Crest 33_Party on the Waterfront: Hot Entertainment at SugarHouse Casino by SugarHouse Casino
38_MUSIC & THE ARTS 42_For What It’s Worth by Clark DeLeon 48_Sal Dupree Rises Above by Bob Wagner 52_Frankie Avalon: Philly-born & Jersey-fresh by Maria Merlino 58_Tony Luke: Serving up Sounds by G.W. Miller III
61_PRH PETS How to Pet-Proof Your Home by Dana Spain, CEO of PAWS
62_FILM 62_West Coast: Breakin’ into Showbiz’ by Leo Rossi 63._East Coast: Tune In & Unplug by Nicole Giles
66_HEALTH
74_BRIDES GUIDE 76_Tara’s World: Summer Soirees beyond Expectation by Tara Buchanan 78_Summer Fun Cruising by Liz Emory
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80 FASHION
79_FASHION 79_Love Your Curls by Joanne Masciantonio 80_Sexy and the City: Life’s a Beach by Alicia DeLeo & Phyllis Palermo
84_WRITERS BLOCK 84_The Psyche of a Philly Fan by Larry Kane
86_PRH TECH 86_A Smartphone App that Keeps you Cruisin’ by Joe Osborne 87_Run, Philly, Run! by Daniel P. Olivieri, III
88_BUSINESS 88_The Ol’ “One-Two” by Lauren Gordon 89_Summer Slowdown: Market Advice to Aid Seasonal Business by Antoinette Johnson
90_THE SCHOOLYARD 90_A Selfless Celebration by Colleen Heavens 91_Student Writers Block: Pulling a “Cousin Ken” by Marialena Rago 94_Up to Speed by Danielle Rosati
66_PAWC: Turning Back the Hands of Time by Lauren Gordon
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30 MENU
58 music
18
Politics
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VOLUME _16 ISSUE 26_ 2012 gohomephilly.com
regulars 6_ FROM THE PUBLISHERS Follow the Leader!
10_ MAILBOX ZOWIE!
12_ NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR
JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2012
74
brides guide
16_ HANGIN’ OUT Let’s go to the Hop!
36_ON THE CORNER Dancing with the Cars by Mark Casasanto
64_ TIPS FROM THE PROS LAW & ORDER Fake ID? Real Penalties by Frank C. DePasquale Jr., Esq
74_ BRIDES GUIDE Hot Fun in the Summertime by Joseph Volpe
82_ GREENSPACE Go (Green) Down the Shore By Kerri-Lee Mayland
96_ PRESSED Will Smith — Phone Home! By Dorette Rota Jackson
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GREEN SPACE
on the corner
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PRESSED
on the cover Rive to River. One Neighborhood. More then just our PRH mantra, it’s how our City celebrates summer. From vacations down the shore to Fireworks at Penn’s Landing, RowHome Readers rest and revive ‘On the WaterFront!’See Page 31.
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Dr. Cohen and Staff are dedicated to addressing all of your orthodontic needs. We are committed to staying current with the latest technology and advances in orthodontics. Everyone in our office understands that each patient presents with different needs and expectations and we do our best to address them in a professional and compassionate manner. Since the beauty of your smile is a direct reflection on the doctor, in our office the doctor himself performs all of the “wire bending” and cementing of appliances. We feel strongly that this delivers the highest quality of orthodontic care possible. You will appreciate our level of commitment to achieve the finest result possible.
Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics Voted one of the best Orthodontists by Philadelphia Magazine 2010
fromthe publishers VOLUME _16 ISSUE 26 2012 gohomephilly.com
“I believe in the power of dreams. I believe that anything is possible. I believe in creating each day every day - one day at a time.”
Dorette & Dawn photo by Phil Kramer
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Liberties with Cescaphe Ballroom (2003), Cescaphe has become renowned for its impeccable cuisine, unparalleled service, unprecedented creativity and meticulous Joseph Volpe, Chef/CEO, Cescaphe attention to detail. With the addition of Tendenza, The Atrium at the Curtis CenEvent Group ter and Vie, Cescaphe Event Group has Almost one thousand brides (and grooms!) dazzled more than a quarter-million guests have followed Joseph Volpe to a fantasy in this City of Brotherly Love. “We take our wedding reception that has come to de- responsibility very seriously,” Volpe says. fine the Cescaphe Event Group. From “We promise that we will give every couple the time he first broke ground in Northern the dreams and memories of a lifetime.” gohomephilly.com
Follow your dreams
Do you want your business featured on our Publishers’ Page? Call PRH at 215.462.9777 for details.
Cescaphe Event Group 215.238.5750 cescaphe.com Bridal Gowns provided by UnVeiled Philadelphia (unveiledphiladelphia.com)
VOLUME 16 ISSUE 26 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2012 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM President | Publisher Dorette Rota Jackson
Vice President | Publisher Dawn Rhoades
Editor Dorette Rota Jackson
Vice President Marketing & Promotions Dawn Rhoades
There are two certainties in life. Only one comes with options.
Creative Director | production Omar Rubio
Contributors Mark Casasanto David Cava Alicia DeLeo Clark DeLeon Vince DeMentri Frank DePasquale Jr., Esq. Dr. Richard Dittrich Larry Gallone Colleen Heavens Hannah Heckner Brett Jackson Larry Kane Maria Merlino
George Miller Dr. James Moylan Joseph Osborne Bob O’Brien Daniel Olivieri, III Phyllis Palermo Sharon Pinkenson Michael Rhoades Danielle Rosati Leo Rossi Jade Rota Tony Santini Bob Wagner
assistant editor Lauren Gordon
Green space Editor Kerri-Lee Mayland
THE BRIDES GUIDE Joseph Volpe
COPY EDITOR Maria Merlino
Marketing Communications Coordinator Carol Vassallo
Photographers Phil Kramer John McMullen Megan Capobianco
David M. Spitzberg 1505 South Broad Street Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 P: 215.952.8800 F: 215.952.0800 www.CPAforBusiness.com www.CPAforSolar.com info@CPAforBusiness.com 8
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Heather Sizemore Hector Valentin
Account Manager Theresa Palestino
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mike Rhoades
INTERN PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lauren Gordon
Published by:
Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 | Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.com | www.phillyrowhome.wordpress.com Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine and its contents are copyrighted. Content printed in the magazine may not be reproduced or reprinted, in whole or in part, by any other party without the expressed written consent of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. 2012 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.
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THEMAILBOX email your letters to: info@gohomephilly.com
Hey RowHome: You know what the worst part of your mag is? Getting to the last page and wishing there was MORE to read! LOVE IT! Keep up the great work! Donna Blake Hacking
Dear PRH: Got it! The mailman delivered today and, like always, you deliver great articles, pictures and ads. Everyone is a celebrity rings true. It is the best of the best. ZOWIE! Your Biggest Fan, John Nacchio
HI PRH: I just read my latest issue of ROWHOME. It’s great as usual. I love the recipes and hope you do that every issue. I would love to
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see old Italian cookie recipes in it. Please let me know whenever my subscription expires. I don’t want to miss an issue. Thanks for this great magazine. It’s nice to see the ads, too, and what stores are in the area. The old pictures are super and I see my family in them, again (the Olivos) with my mother as a child. I missed the wedding ones in this issue. They are good, too. I am waiting to see my grandfather’s society from 9th and Tasker. My aunt sent in the picture. Thanks for such a great magazine. Maria Scocca from Cherry Hill NJ
Dear RowHome: Thank you so much for this magazine, we really appreciate it. I was
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invited to my son Anthony’s house on 17th and Porter for dinner. He recently got married and has a new house, so he loves this magazine for reference if he needs work done in his house! This magazine is great! Usually, after I read it, one of my children steal it! You are doing a great job for our community and business owners. Thank you again. Teresa Todaro
Dear PRH: You and your staff are doing a great job with the publication! I always enjoy the newest edition and always keep the past issues in the Deli, ready for the diners to look through them. They never get “old.” Susan Tavella, Vincenzo’s Deli
vol16/12
Hi RowHome: I would like to thank RowHome Magazine. At the Gala Event (PRH’s Annual Affair to Remember), I met some awesome business owners. Now, Seasational Cruises will be doing commercials! And it all took place at the Gala Event. Bon Voyage! Liz Emory, Seasational Cruises
INTRODUCING UNVEILED PHILADELPHIA A PREMIER BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Frannie Erace, a decorator for 32 years in the wedding business, has expanded her expertise to couture bridal gowns and accessories. Seeing the need for a more exclusive bridal experience, she has combed the runways and bridal markets to bring the most exquisite gowns and designers exclusively to her salon in the Philadelphia market. Unveiled offers a new way to shop. Brides-to-be will have the salon to themselves for up to two hours to view the entire collection. Walk the runway in Unveiled’s chic setting above historic Washington Square. Experience the dream, live the excitement and awaken a little girl’s memory playing dress-up as a bride posing in front of the mirror. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Breathtaking
1957. Charlie Graci e (left) with Dick Cla rk (Center)Â and sin (right) at the premi ger Jodie Sands ere of Warner Bro s. R&R movie, JA MBOREE! at the Stanton Theater in Philly.
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1958. Press photo of Charlie Gracie & wife Joan (right) with younger brother, 13-year-old Bobby Gracie, & their parents Sam and Mary Gracie (left).
12 | rowhome magazine www.gohomephilly.com
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rowhome magazine | 13
PRH
life
H
anging on the Corner. It has been a rite of passage in neighborhoods throughout the City since the Pilgrims landed. But what happens to friends when they outgrow the corner hang? When they get married, move out of the city, lose touch with people and places from the past? This group of friends from 18th & Snyder
decided that a 30+-year bond of friendship was worth passing forward - to their children - so they planned a “Corner Reunion” trip to the Canna Country Inn in Northern, PA, this past February. Joe Rhoades, Mike Rhoades, Mike Nunzio, Vince Caputo, Mark Conte, Robert Evert and John Marazzo, brought their families (including 17 kids!) along on this annual get-together.
Whether you are on a ski lift or a sandy beach, RowHome Reunions are the perfect way to stay in touch with old friends and build new memories for generations to come! Pass it forward!
Summer 2012 Every Friday Night Gia's in Wildwood, NJ Fridays with Johnny Looch Start time: 8 pm Every Saturday Night Mia of Caesars in Atlantic City Johnny Looch Dance Party Start time: 10 pm Every Sunday Afternoon Greenhouse in Margate Johnny Looch Jam Session Start time: 3 pm Other venues are shown on my Facebook page. LIKE my DJ JOHNNY LOOCH page and follow me, and my mixes, all summer long!!! www.johnnylooch.com 215-238-0374 johnnylooch@verizon.net
photo by Mike Revak
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VOLUME _16 ISSUE 26_ 2012 gohomephilly.com
HANGIN’OUT
JUNE|JULY|AUGUST 2012
1_ Hangin’ out at the GAMP Soph Hop! 2_ Temple University’s Study Away Program students hang out on the Howth Pier in Dublin, Ireland. 3_ The Lombardi family kids on the Oasis of the Seas cruise to Mexico last August. Vincent (20), Gianna (16) and twins Anthony & Alyssa (11).
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4_ The Imperial Security Team, headed by PRH’s Mark Casasanto, along with Frank Warren & Sal Rota greet Mauro Castano & Danny Dragone from the popular reality show “Cake Boss” at the PA Convention Center. Carlo’s Bakery provided the wedding cake for the Hawaiian Wedding that took place at the 2012 Philadelphia Flower Show. 5_ Jim & Al DeMarco enjoy a family wedding. 6_ Carmel Brylewski & Jennie Princiotta hang out! 7_ Michael Rhoades & Christina Farina at the Prep Charter Hop.
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8_ Kathy Ciancaglini is radiant at her 50th birthday celebration. 9_ Prep Charter’s Soph Hop featuring Michael Rhoades, Christina Farina & Chrissy Farina. 10_ Congratulations to the GAMP Cheerleaders who came in 1st Place at the All City Cheerleading competition! 11_ Cousins Brett Jackson, Nicolette Retallick, Michael Rhoades & Anthony Retallick hang out. 12_ 2012 PIAA District 12 AA Wrestling Champions Bishop McDevitt....WAY TO GO!!!!!
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13_ The handsome Stevenson Brothers pose in front of City Hall! 14_ Joe Mariutti dances with his mother at a wedding. 15_ Class of January 1950 SPHS FOR GIRLS AT LA STANZA.
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16_ Brett Jackson & Taylor Wall with friends Kweku McKenzie, Noelle McManus, Elyse Bologna & Michael Rhoades before the GAMP Soph Hop!
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&
POLITICS
City Hall Report Card
by Larry Gallone
M
any times, the business of keeping a city running isn’t the headline-grabbing, fast-paced drama that is fed to us on the television. Instead, it is the steady beat of the people who live in the neighborhood working with public and private entities that make this RowHome city run.
Parks, Ports and Pedestrians The Philadelphia City Planning Commission released two draft district plans for lower South Philadelphia and the area around City Avenue and West Fairmount Park. The Lower South district covers the Navy Yard, stadium complex, Sunoco refinery and neighborhoods to the south of Packer Avenue. The draft plan calls for improved highway and transit access, well-designed housing for seniors and families and better connections to parkland and the riverfronts. Exciting new restaurants and amenities will make the stadium complex a busy and more vital place at all times of the day and night. The Navy Yard will continue to expand as a first-class business campus and the port will add roads and shipping facilities to support job retention and the creation of new jobs in Philadelphia. The West Park district includes West Fairmount Park, adjoining communities and the neighborhoods along City Avenue. Draft recommendations call for new mixed-use development on 52nd Street, Lancaster Avenue and Parkside Avenue, allowing Fairmount Park and nearby communities to improve in a coordinated and well-planned manner. Neighborhood playgrounds will be upgraded at locations most 18
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accessible to local residents, while City Avenue will develop into a more urban and pedestrianfriendly corridor at the city’s edge. Let the sunshine in The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) has implemented two ordinances designed to encourage the use of solar panel systems in Philadelphia. Sponsored by Councilman Jim Kenney, the two ordinances amend the Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code to greatly reduce the costs of securing both electrical permits and building permits for solar panel systems (also known as photovoltaic systems). In a recent press release, Councilman Jim Kenney said, “Today, we move Philadelphia in the right direction, towards a more sustainable and greener future, while also encouraging economic development and job creation. As we continue down this green path, we must be open to further innovation and development of cleaner fuel sources.” Dollars and Sense Finding the right mix of spending, investment and cuts for the city is a continual challenge. Mayor Michael Nutter’s five-year outlook for the city and Fiscal Year 13 budget proposal balanced those concerns. According to
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a press release from the Mayor’s office, some of these FY13 spending proposals include: ❱❱ A commitment of $4.1 million to hire close to 400 new police officers by the end of FY13 and—while accounting for the effects of attrition—to maintain a strength of 6,500 uniformed officers on the police force over the course of the Five Year Plan. ❱❱ $9.0 million for the design of a new police headquarters, city morgue and health offices co-located at 4601 Market Street. This will be the City’s first new police headquarters in 50 years. ❱❱ To increase funding to $6.7 million in FY13 for improvements to six police stations and 11 firehouses. ❱❱ A $20 million investment over two years for the design and redevelopment of Love Park. This project will create an accessible green space connecting the redeveloped Dilworth Plaza with the revitalized Benjamin Franklin Parkway. ❱❱ $7 million budgeted for three years for neighborhood library branch capital investments, the Neighborhood Library Improvement Program, which will be leveraged to attract additional private investment. ❱❱ The City will join a partnership with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to build a brand new, multi-million-dollar health center in South Philadelphia. The partnership will save taxpayers from the cost of a $7 million renovation or $10 million rebuild of Health Center 2. ❱❱ $1.1 million increase in funding to the Office of Property Assessment to assist with their overhaul of the property assessment system scheduled to be completed in fall 2012. ❱❱ For the first time, the City will create a Traffic Operations Center and Streets Department engineers will begin to monitor many of the City’s key travel corridors and modify traffic signal timing plans to respond to real-time traffic conditions. During the last three years, the City closed a $2.4 billion gap in its Five Year Plan, eliminated 1,600 positions through attrition, and reduced spending by creating efficiencies. The FY12 budget, following multiple years of difficult budget cuts, included $9.5 million in mid-year additional cuts. In contrast, the FY13 budget cuts only $2.2 million in departmental spending. The Mayor added, “This is what a 21st century city government in a 21st century city looks like—smaller, smarter, more efficient and focused on the fundamentals. A government that makes investments in its citizens and neighborhoods, ever focused on ensuring that we have a safer city, a smarter city, a city that continues to attract visitors, residents, businesses and jobs from all over the world.” prh
picture by Antoine Taveneaux
PRHNEWS
PRHNEWS
&
C
POLITICS
by Zack Burgess
ompromise. How did it ever become an unreasonable word? Speaker of the House John Boehner said in an interview with 60 Minutes’ Lesley Stahl back in the spring that “I reject the word.” Unbelievable!
At one time in our history, political leaders came together for the betterment of country. They came together for future generations. Keep in mind, this not a Republican nor Democrat problem. It’s just a problem. Whatever happened to the give-and-take that’s necessary in order to have effective governance? But then “compromise” is what Freud would have called an indecisive word. On the one hand, compromise is the basis of human society itself. Edmund Burke put it succinctly in 1775 in a famous speech calling on the British Parliament to conciliate with the American colonies. “All government, indeed every human benefit and enjoyment,
Zack Burgess is the Director of Communications for Philadelphia Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, who represents the 2nd Councilmanic District. He is an award winning journalist with more than 20 years of experience, where he has reported on everything from sports to politics. Zack’s work has appeared in Code Magazine, The New York Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Newsday, Politics Magazine, The Washington Post, NBC Sports.com, NPR and USATODAY 20
A “Nasty” 10-letter Word
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every virtue, and every prudent act, is founded on compromise.” Obviously, something has changed over the past several decades as we have entered a new era of what I like to call the permanent campaign, where every day is effectively a chess game for the next election. At one time in history, politics was about working together on both sides of the aisle. It was the way we did things. Unfortunately, from where I sit, it seems very hard to achieve these days. I’m convinced that our Founding Fathers understood what it meant to come together, have a conversation and achieve a common ground. After all, they created the U.S. Constitution, which has been the foundation in which we have lived and changed things in this country for more than 230 years now. Think about it. The idea that either Party can and will gain complete control in order to push through their agenda, without compromise, is a complete fallacy. Furthermore, while Speaker Boehner has made this charge, President Barack Obama has been criticized by his own Party for compromising too soon, too much or on the wrong issues. Many who passionately sought universal health coverage, for example, could not celebrate its near-accomplishment because the President gave up the public option. The death of compromise has become a threat to our nation as we confront crucial is-
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sues such as the debt ceiling and that most basic of legislative responsibilities: a federal budget. At stake is the very meaning of what had once seemed unshakable: “the full faith and credit” of the U.S. government. Back when the powerful 19th-century senator Henry Clay was called “the great compromiser,” achieving a compromise really was considered great. On three occasions, the Kentucky statesman helped the Senate preserve the Union by crafting compromises between the deadlocked slave-holding South and the Northern free states. In 1820, his Missouri Compromise stemmed the spread of slavery. In 1833, when the South was poised to defy federal tariff laws favored by the North and the federal government was about to authorize military action, Clay found a lastminute compromise. And his Compromise of 1850 averted civil war for at least a decade. It was during an 1850 Senate debate that Clay stated his conviction: “I go for honorable compromise whenever it can be made.” Something else he said then holds a key to how the dwindling respect for compromise is related to larger and more dangerous developments in our nation today. “All legislation, all government, all society,” Clay said, “is formed upon the principle of mutual concession, politeness, comity, courtesy; upon these, everything is based.” Something is awfully wrong when concession, politeness, comity and courtesy are considered bad words. None of these words could be uttered now with the assurance of listeners’ approval. The word “comity” is rarely heard; “concession” sounds weak; “politeness” and “courtesy” sound quaint —much like the contemporary equivalent, “civility.” prh
PRHNEWS
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POLITICS
Peace
Not
Guns by Maria Merlino photo by John McMullen
I
t was murder or, shall we say, murders, that kick-started Philadelphia 2nd District Councilman Kenyatta Johnson’s character into action. “The year was 1998. Word got back to me that my cousin Sultan “Chick” Chandler had been shot on 17th Street in South Philly,” he begins. “Someone on a bicycle rode up to him near the schoolyard, G.W. Child’s Elementary School, and shot him.”
It wasn’t the first time one of his peers was killed. “Prior to graduating college -- in 1996, ‘97 and ‘98 -- other friends were murdered. I realized that retaliation for a killing - no matter how many were murdered - was not going to bring my cousin back. I wanted the people to focus on healing. I organized the communi22
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ty and we held a Peace Not Guns Unity Rally and Prayer Vigil at the same schoolyard.” At the time, Johnson was working with AmeriCorps, a public education program created under President Bill Clinton, and had yet to launch his own political platform. He wanted to make people safer and help them focus on the gohomephilly.com
issue of peace. He started by instituting a conflict resolution and anger management effort for ‘tweens to young adults. The main issues? Youth violence and illegal guns. Mission Possible Now a member of City Council, Kenyatta Johnson says he will continue to focus on youth violence. He convened the Peace Not Guns Youth and Gun Violence Task Force to develop and implement a strategy to reduce the guns and violence that disrupt so many lives. It is a roundtable of collaborative efforts, Johnson explains, that will focus attention on what has become an epidemic of crisis proportion as well as a public health issue. “Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods, so now it’s time to start acting like you live in one ,” Johnson said. “Everyone has a stake in the city. From a law enforcement perspective, I clearly understand that if you commit a heinous crime, there will be consequences for your actions.” But there’s more to it than that, he starts. Peace Not Guns Youth and Violence Task Force has two main questions. How are guns being distributed around the city of Philadelphia? Where do these guns come from? “On the one hand, the city’s leadership wants to stress prevention -- provide mentoring programs, after-school activities, education and other preventive methods -to assist neighborhood organizations with their youth-development efforts,” Johnson explains. “But from a law enforcement and public policy aspect, we also have to target the individuals who actually sell illegal guns. Because somehow, these guns are coming from somewhere. Kids aren’t going to gun shops and purchasing a gun,” he quips. “We can’t overlook that guns are flooding the streets of Philadelphia. Children don’t go into stores and say ‘I want to buy an AK-47… I want to buy a 9 mm.’ Where are these guns coming from? That is the question that needs to be addressed.” It Takes a Village Johnson suggests we start at square one. Everyone -- from resi-
dents to elected officials -- has to focus on reducing youth and gun violence from a grassroots perspective as well as public policy. He says that roundtable discussions to address the complexities of youth violence issues are multi-part. “All young people need a quality education, after-school programs and mentors to help them follow their hopes and dreams. They need jobs.” And all of these programs require resources, he adds. “It truly does take a Village. Youth violence affects us all. We all are one community. One city.” How do we begin this process? It all begins at home, Johnson says. Kids need the right support systems. “Young people mimic what they see in the household. They mimic other adults and those who are older than them. They copy their actions and behaviors.” Another Roundtable discussion focuses attention on the shooters. What leads them to a life of crime? “We have to make sure we tell our kids that there is no glory in gangs. Keep it simple. Just the facts. ‘No, it is not cool to shoot up innocent people.’ ‘No, it is not cool to pull out a gun because you got into an argument with him.’ Carry a gun and you will go to jail or die.” Lessons Learned According to Councilman Johnson, the leaders of Philadelphia must embrace higher expectations when it comes to educating our children. “We need to take politics out of the educational system,” he continues. “You can’t replace the Schools Superintendent with each new mayoral administration. We sacrifice continuity in our system and the kids suffer. More importantly, leaders - from the School Reform Commission to the School District to the parents - have to join forces to ensure that our students receive the best education possible. “I believe it is incumbent upon every parent, every city official, to demand a quality education for children of every age. It may be a long process, but it’s a road we must travel.” prh
PRHthe menu
Angelo Lutz presents
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The Kitchen Consigliere hen I opened my restaurant in Collingswood, NJ just over a year ago, I had one thought in mind, says Angelo Lutz, Executive Chef of The Kitchen Consigliere. “I wanted to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere where I could serve Italian comfort food.” Born Angelo Jenaro Luzzi in the heart of South Philadelphia, Lutz says food is more than nourishment. It’s an experience. “Anyone who cooks for a family or for the public brings their life experiences to the table.” And Lutz has plenty of life experiences to bring to the table.
“You may have heard of me. I’ve been in the news from time to time,” he laughs from behind the counter of his trendy cafe just off historic Main Street. “I spent some time -- nearly eight years -- as a guest of the federal government.” "That’s part of who I am," Lutz readily admits. He gives a quick run-down of the many hats he’s worn. Blackjack Dealer. Caterer. Rug Installer. Sax Player. Golden Buddha. Gambler. Bookmaker. “The feds would add loanshark and extortionist to that list,” Lutz laughs. “I disagree. But that’s all in in the past,” he continues. “When I testified on my own behalf at a racketeering trial in 2001, I told the jury, ‘I’m a cook. Not a crook.’ The jury thought otherwise. Which is why I did my time.” But prison bars couldn’t keep this cook from slicing and simmering. “It’s amazing what you can do with a microwave and the right ingredients.” Now, from the comforts of his upscale restaurant, the kitchen consigliere keeps cus-
tomers coming back for more, like his authentic recipe that follows. Meatballs - The secret to making a good meatball is the meat. Use beef, veal and pork. Grounded twice (the way my mom ordered it from the butcher). Add eggs, cheese, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic and parsley to taste. Add wet bread or breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. The most important step is frying the meatballs! Not baking or placing them into the pot raw. FRY them! Cooking Tip: Garlic is a staple in Italian cooking, but don’t overdo it. Garlic should enhance not disguise the flavor of a meal. Moderation is key.✻
Come enjoy Old Italian Style dishes as Executive Chef Angelo Lutz presents the experience of a real, authentic home-style cooking. BYOB Reservations encouraged
The Kitchen Consigliere Cafe
8 Powell Lane, Collingswood, NJ 08108 Phone: 856.854.2156 Fax: 856.854.2184 Open 7 Days a Week
FREE CANNOLI with copy of this Ad!
The Kitchen Consigliere Cafe 8 Powell Lane, Collingswood NJ 856.854.2156. Open 7 days. BYOB.
www.kItCOnCafE.COm
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PRHthe menu
Philadium by the Stadium A Sporting Good Time
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by Bob O’Brien photo by Hector Valentin
f you’re looking for a bite to eat after a game, or for a place to hang out while it’s still happening, look no further than 17th Street and Packer Avenue. Owned by James Quinn, an 81-year-old Philly native from Grays Ferry and an avid sports fan, Philadium by the Stadium is close to the action and has been a hub for good food and good company for many years. The name Philadium is a legend in its own right. Before Veterans Stadium was built, officials held a contest to decide the best name for the fledgling arena. Although the name everyone knows was the winner, Philadium, a combination of ‘Philadelphia” and “stadium,” was a second-place runner up. Sensing that the name could still be put to good use, the original owners of the Philadium adopted the name for their establishment. Quinn has owned the business since 1978, 10 years after it first opened. The tavern’s proximity to the stadiums means that many of Philadium’s customers are involved in the city’s sports – players, umpires, sportscasters. Of all the teams that have come through his doors, Quinn has a special place in his heart for the Flyers -- despite calling himself a “baseball man.” “Flyers players are outstanding people,” he said. “They’re just regular guys.” And after 34 years in business, many players have come through his doors. “When we first started, the players weren’t getting paid what they are now, so they’d come here,” Quinn said. “When they came in, they saw it was a place where they wouldn’t be bothered. The food is good and the prices are reasonable.”
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gohomephilly.com
Among his favorite regulars were Bobby Clark, Bob Dailey and Bob Kelly of the Flyers, and Dick Allen, Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton of the Phillies. Now and then, they still stop in for a beer and a cheesesteak. Although it is a tavern, and many drinks are served, Philadium is best known for its food. “It’s a friendly atmosphere and it centers around the food,” Quinn said. “We do an awful lot more food than we do drinks.” He recommends the crab cakes and the hamburgers. Being so close to the city’s sports arenas, business is always booming during sports seasons, especially when the Phillies and the Flyers are playing. However, it’s the quiet atmosphere that keeps the regulars coming back. Quinn likes to keep his establishment familiar – his bartenders have been around since the place opened - and family-friendly. Even during some of the biggest celebrations Philadium has seen, from Stanley Cups to the 2008 World Series, the atmosphere has always remained respectable. “It’s always toned down,” Quinn said. “No wildness. We don’t go for any of that stuff.”✻ Philadium by the Stadium is a member of the PRH Business Network
PRHthe menu
Milk or Dark Which one do you CHEWS? A Candy as Full of History as the City Herself
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by Just Born, INC.
EANUT CHEWS® candies have been a Philadelphia favorite for more than 90 years and were developed by the Goldenberg family in 1917 for the U.S. Military during World War I. The delicious, high energy, high protein ration bar became quite popular with the troops, and have been in demand state-side ever since. PEANUT CHEWS® were first sold in and around Philadelphia. The brand’s loyal following was built by word-of-mouth and its fan base spread to New York, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. A candy steeped in Philadelphia history and a ton of fun facts. Learn all about a company that has been a Philly staple since the 1800’s:
❱❱ 1 890 - Goldenberg’s Candy founded in Philadelphia by Romanian immigrant David Goldenberg ❱❱ 1917 - PEANUT CHEWS® candy introduc– ed. It was originally developed for use by the U.S. military as a ration bar in WWI. When the soldiers returned home, they continued to yearn for the candy. ❱❱ 1921 - Harry Goldenberg produced the first wrapped PEANUT CHEW® candy ❱❱ 1930’s - PEANUT CHEWS® candy converted from full size bar to individual pieces and began selling the bite-size pieces in movie theaters. ❱❱ 1949 - D. Goldenberg, Inc. closes. Harry & Sylvia Goldenberg (2nd generation) purchase the PEANUT CHEWS® Division and focus solely on the production of
this one candy and moved to Wyoming Avenue from Frankford Avenue ❱❱ 1998 - GOLDENBERG’S® moves from Wyoming Avenue to State Road ❱❱ 2003 - GOLDENBERG’S® business acquired by Just Born ❱❱ TODAY- Two million PEANUT CHEWS® candy pieces can be produced each day. If placed end to end, they would reach 40 miles. PEANUT CHEWS® candies are still craved for their delicious chewy, chocolatey bitesized pieces loaded with crunchy roasted peanuts. Just Born continues to satisfy consumers with the delicious tradition started almost a century ago.✻
A. Criniti reAlty inC. For all your Real Estate Needs
1633 E. PASSYUNK AVENUE PHILADELPHIA, PA 19148 Phone: 215.465.4225 Fax: 215.462.4229 Anthony Criniti, Broker Theresa Criniti, Property Rental Manager 26
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gohomephilly.com
Let’s Go EAT!
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inding a great cheesesteak or hoagie around South Philly isn’t hard. There’s practically one on every street corner. While locals and tourists, alike, have declared their favorites, there’s no overwhelming consensus. Yet one thing everyone can agree on — it all starts with the bread. When it comes to taste and consistency, you can’t do any better than Liscio’s Bakery rolls (at least, according to their new Phillies spokesman Hunter Pence). But don’t take Hunter’s word for it. The best sandwich shops in South Philly use Liscio’s bread. So the next time you’re saying “Let’s Go Eat,” make it one of these spots:
Brought to you by Liscio’s Bakery ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱
ACME Markets Citizens Bank Park Lincoln Financial Field Wells Fargo Center Geno’s Steaks Chickie’s & Pete’s Pagano’s Johnny’s Hots Paesano’s Steaks On South Hot Diggity Tony Roni’s
❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱ ❱❱
Spataro’s Stogie Joe’s Passyunk Tavern Campo’s Deli Chink’s Steaks Tony Luke’s Ricci’s Hoagies Ishkabibble’s Eatery Bain’s Deli P & S Ravioli Co. Dad's All Natural Stuffings Fink’s Hoagies
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PRHthe menu
A Family Market brought to you
by Jennifer Colligas, of Colligas Family Markets Jim Colligas’ dream of owning his own store began when he was a part-time cashier at the ShopRite of Somerville in 1960. In 2005, his dreams came true when he became the president and CEO of Colligas Family Markets and the owner and operator of the ShopRite at Front & Snyder in Philadelphia. When he took over the Front & Snyder store in 2005, he knew it was essential to quality customer service that the store reflect the needs of the neighborhood. A renovation not only added 5,600 square feet to the previously 48,000 square foot store, but also a natural and organic department, a new seafood department and an enhanced appetizer department including products the community
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expects in a typical South Philly deli. Today, those needs are further being met through their new In-Store Delivery Service. When time is money, this service enables busy professionals to shop quickly and deliver from the store to your door at a time that is convenient for you. This Store also offers a discounted rate to multiple orders going to the same address such as a apartment complexes or condominiums. Coordinate your online or in-store shopping orders with your neighbors and take advantage of the discount! IN-STORE DELIVERY RATES: ❱❱ $6.95 each order for 1-2 orders delivered to the same address ❱❱ $4.95 each order for 3-4 orders delivered to the same address (Savings of $2/order!) ❱❱ $3.95 each order for 5 or more orders delivered to the same address (Savings of $3/order!) ❱❱ Hours of Delivery: 7 Days a week, 9 am -9 pm Other amenities and services for customers to enjoy: ❱❱ Customer Friendliness with hassle-free service ❱❱ A No Line, No Wait Checkout Experience
gohomephilly.com
❱❱ Steakhouse Quality Certified Angus Beef (Aged 21 days) ❱❱ Specialty Cheese (Around the World) ❱❱ Custom Party Platters (includes vegetables, fruit, meats and cheeses, seafood and pastry) ❱❱ Organic and Natural Foods ❱❱ Gift Baskets made to order for any occasion ❱❱ 7 Day Delivery Service ❱❱ Online Shopping @ www.ShopRite.com ❱❱ Meat Cutter on Duty 7 days, 6 am -9 pm ❱❱ Custom Wedding Flower Arrangements and Bouquets ❱❱ Catering service for all events including school lunch programs, office lunches and more ❱❱ Patisserie Case featuring fresh pastries made onsite ❱❱ Custom designed Wedding and All Occasion Cakes by Walter ❱❱ “Let us do it for you service” ShopRite can cater any party/celebration complete with appetizers, main dish, desserts, flower arrangements, delivery and set up! ✻ Colligas Family Markets & ShopRite at Front and Snyder is a member of the PRH Business Network
Pizzeria Pesto Presents
Garlic Knots Ingredients: ➜ 2 lbs. pizza dough, either homemade, bread bakery bought or frozen, at room temperature ➜ Flour to roll out dough ➜ Oil to grease baking pans
LOMBARDI’S PRIME MEATS presents
Prize Winning Baby Back Ribs INGREDIENTS: ➜1 tbs ground cumin ➜1 tbs chili powder ➜1 tbs paprika ➜S alt & Pepper to taste ➜3 lb. baby back pork ribs ➜1 cup barbecue sauce DIRECTIONS: Preheat grill for high heat. In a small jar, combine cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt & pepper. Close the lid and shake to mix. Trim the membrane sheath from the back of each rack. Run a small, sharp knife between the membrane and each rib and snip off the membrane as much as possible. Sprinkle as much of the rub onto both sides of the ribs as desired. To prevent the ribs from becoming too dark and spicy, do not thoroughly rub the spices into the ribs. Store the unused portion of the spice mix for future use. Place aluminum foil on lower rack to capture drippings and prevent flare-ups. Lightly oil grate and lay ribs on top rack of grill. Reduce heat to low, close lid and leave undisturbed for 1 hour. Do not lift lid at all. Brush ribs with barbecue sauce and grill an additional 5 minutes. Serve ribs as whole rack or cut between each rib bone and pile individually on a platter.✻ Lombardi’s Prime Meats is a member of the PRH Business Network
Garlic Coating: ➜ cup olive oil ➜ 2 tablespoons butter ➜ 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced ➜ cup fresh parsley, chopped ➜ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano ➜ Salt and Pepper, to taste Directions: Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Grease two 13x17 inch baking pans with olive oil Divide the pizza dough in half. Keep second half under a tea towel while you work on the first half. With a rolling pin, roll out the first half on a lightly floured surface, to form a 10-inch square. You may use your hands to draw it out if it’s very elastic. Cut the 10-inch square in half with a sharp knife or pizza wheel to form two rectangles. Cut each rectangle into 12 strips that are shorter and wider, rather than long and skinny. Sprinkle the strips with flour. Taking the strips one at a time, gently roll it back and forth to create an even rope; don’t stretch it. Tie each into a knot, and place on a greased baking sheet. Place the knots about 1½ inch apart. Continue to make the rest of the knots. Cover pan with towel and repeat process with the second piece of dough. Let the knots rest while you prepare the Garlic Coating. Combine butter, olive oil and minced garlic in a small sauce pan over low heat. Cook until butter has melted and the garlic releases its fragrance. Mixture should be warm, not boiling. Add chopped parsley, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Brush over knots to coat. Set remaining mixture aside. Bake knots for approximately 20-25 minutes, rotating pans after 10-12 minutes. The knots should be golden brown and fully cooked. When knots are done, remove from oven and toss with remaining Garlic Coating. Yield: 48 knots.✻
Tre Scalini Ristorante presents:
Polenta with Broccoli Rabe Ingredients: ➜ Grilled polenta slices ➜ 1 large bunch broccoli rabe ➜ Garlic cloves ➜ Red chili flakes ➜ Your best Extra Virgin Olive Oil ➜ Sea salt (to taste) ➜ Bowl of ice water Directions: For the traditional “polenta liquida” Bring a pot of salted water to a boil just as you would for pasta. Begin slowly adding polenta cornmeal while whisking at the same time. Continue until you have reached a porridge consistency, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes. Pour into a casserole pan. Allow to cool and solidify. Refrigerate until ready to slice and grill. For the broccoli rabe: Trim and clean broccoli. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli rabe and cook a few minutes until it turns bright green. Remove broccoli rabe from the boiling water and immediately plunge into the ice water bath. This shocks the broccoli rabe into keeping the color and prevents overcooking. Drain. Heat grill. Prepare 1 inch thick slices of polenta. Place polenta on grill and turn once you see all edges crisping. In a saute pan over medium heat, use your best extra virgin olive oil and a generous amount of smashed garlic cloves (can be smashed between parchment paper). Cook until garlic turns golden (not burned), add broccoli rabe. Add salt and chili flakes to taste. You may add a touch of water, cover and continue to cook over medium until broccoli rabe reaches desired texture. Plate slices of grilled polenta and top with sautéed broccoli rabe, drizzle with some more extra virgin oil and serve.✻ rowhome magazine
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PRHthe menu
BRIDES MADE SINCE 1904
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photos by Phil Kramer
raped Splendor. Contemporary Chic. Orchid Oasis. Ribbon & Rose. Those are the names of some of the most exquisite Wedding Cakes created by Isgro Pasticceria, an old world, family-owned bakery that has become one of the City’s most frequented landmarks over the last 108 years. Contemporary, Traditional, Elegant or Dramatic, your wedding cake symbolizes your love and commitment to each other. A tradition dating back to the Roman Empire, a loaf of baked barley bread was broken over the bride’s head to bring good fortune to the couple. When shared with guests, it is said to bestow love and prosperity to all who celebrate with you.
TIERS: By the turn of the 19th century, the tiers of the cake represented prosperity. The more tiers, the greater the social status of the family hosting the wedding. WHITE ICING: Since pure, refined sugar was expensive and difficult to obtain, it was very rare to see white icing on a wedding cake. The whiter the frosting, the wealthier the family. CUTTING THE CAKE: Represents the first task in the couple’s life together
SHARING A SLICE: Represents the couple’s promise to provide for each other Call or visit:
Isgro Pasticceria In the Heart of the Italian Market 1009 Christian Street Philadelphia, PA 19147-3707 www.bestcannoli.com
Isgro Pasticceria is a member of the PRH Business Network.
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 PRHOn the Waterfront
PECO heats up the Delaware River
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content provided by The Delaware Waterfront Corporation he annual *PECO Multicultural Series at Penns Landing offers rich cultural outings with the chance to explore the world right here in Philadelphia. These festivals celebrate the diverse ethnic heritage that makes our city great. Admission is FREE for all events, held at the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Columbus Boulevard at Chestnut. So mark your calendars and head to the city’s favorite Waterfront to celebrate the season!
July 14 & 15 Hispanic Fiesta 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Great Plaza
August 18 Festival of India 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Great Plaza
July 21 Global Fusion 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Great Plaza  Â
August 21 Caribbean Festival 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Great Plaza
August 4 ACANA African Festival 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Great Plaza
September 16Â Mexican Independence Day 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Great Plaza
August 11 Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Festival 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Great Plaza
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Extended morning, afternoon & evening hours Dr. Robert Fortino 3OUTH "ROAD 3TREET s www.drfortino.com
*KYW Newsradio and NBC 10 are proud media partners for this series.Â
Public Programming at Penn’s Landing is made possible by corporate partners including PECO, Verizon, Pennsylvania Lottery, Coca-Cola Refreshments-Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation. The 2012 Summer Program of Free Events at Penn’s Landing is funded and produced by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC). Events are FREE to the public on the RiverStage on the Great Plaza, Philadelphia’s premier waterfront entertainment destination, and at Philadelphia’s newest park, the Race Street Pier. DRWC is a nonprofit corporation created in January 2009 exclusively for the benefit of the City of Philadelphia and its citizens. The fundamental purpose of DRWC is to design, develop and manage the central Delaware River waterfront in Philadelphia. DRWC is transforming the waterfront into a vibrant destination location for recreational, cultural, and commercial activities for the residents and visitors of Philadelphia. For more information and event details, call (215) 922-2FUN or visit: www.delawareriverevents.com.âœť
Chad Shank (215) 952-8750
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PRHOn the Waterfront
Ocean Breeze Condominiums
Wildwood Crest
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brought to you by Lees Real Estate Agency
ocated one short block from the white sandy beaches in Wildwood Crest, NJ, Lees Real Estate Agency wants you to see the last two remaining condo units at Ocean Breeze Condominiums. And just in time for the 2012 summer season! Looking for rental income combined with a dream vacation home? These condos are the perfect summertime solution! Many vacationers from the Philadelphia area may recall the Hi-Lilly Motel on the corner of Ocean & Stockton Avenue. A local developer purchased the popular getaway spot several years ago and turned it into a 12-unit condominium complex. What makes Ocean Breeze different from other condos? There are four exciting layouts – each with a different floor plan and all with a beautiful ocean view. Call now and let Lees take you on a tour of a first-floor unit.
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➜ Asking price - $359,900. ➜ Or we can walk you through a third-floor unit offered at $374,900. After a fun day on the beach, relax on the deck of your Ocean Breeze condo. Or kick off your flipflops and take a dip in the in-ground pool. Each condo unit comes with parking for two cars. And there’s plenty of off-street parking for those weekend guests. It’s the perfect vacation combo. Beautiful location + Affordable price + Low interest rates. ➜ Call Lees Real Estate Agency in Wildwood, NJ at 609.729.5108 today! Lees Real Estate Agency is a member of the PRH Business Network.
Party on the Waterfront Hot Entertainment at SugarHouse Casino
brought to you by SugarHouse Casino
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he sun is out. The days are longer. And it’s time to party it up outside. Catch the FREE Sugar Express to the waterfront and see what we’ve got planned for the hot summer months. Start your hot streak with never-ending 24/7 gaming action Find a table on The Refinery Patio for delicious outdoor dining Sit back & relax with Daily Happy Hour Specials • 6 pm – 8 pm $2 Beer * $3 Wine * $4 Cocktails
2531-35 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia PA 19148
There’s no place like ROWHOME for the Holidays!
➜ Rock out to live outdoor entertainment five nights a week: Old School Wednesdays Jerry Blavat spinning 50s & 60s hits! Plus, live hits of the 70s & 80s! ➜ Unplugged Thursdays Bugzy & Patty ease into the mellow side of Top 40 from the Beatles to today! ➜ Fridays with Eddie Bruce & Friends Philly Favorite Eddie Bruce shares the stage with the Tom Adams Trio and a weekly special guest! ➜ Party Hits Saturdays Rock out on the Waterfront to live hits! ➜ Island Sol Sundays Tropical rhythms to wind down your weekend under the sun! ➜ PLUS Free Self & Valet Parking Free Beverage Service During Play Free Rides on the Sugar Express – making stops throughout Philly Summer is here. Come out & play! ✻
A Subscription to RowHome makes the perfect holiday gift Keep friends & loved ones close to “Home” Call 215.462.9777 to order in time for holiday delivery Or subscribe online at gohomephilly.com Just *$16 for the year! *(online orders add shipping & handling)
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PRHOn the Waterfront
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Rolling on the River
Content provided by The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
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photos by Ed Savaria
he Delaware River Waterfront Corporation sets sail with a summer of events, now through September, including free concerts, multicultural festivals, large screen outdoor movies, fabulous fireworks, signature family programming and marquee talent. This season also offers spectacular concerts on the RiverStage at Penn’s Landing featuring smooth jazz, gospel, doo wop, another Free Philadelphia Orchestra Neighborhood concert and the return of the Global Fusion Festival and the WHYY Connections Festival. The 2012 Summer Program season features programming, events and activities on Race Street Pier on the Delaware River which will include a series called First Friday - Park After Dark, to be held on the first Friday of each month in connection with the Old City First Friday celebrations.
Summer 2012 program highlights include: ➜ SCREENINGS UNDER THE STARS The FREE outdoor film se- gather your family and ries, *Screenings Under friends, or take a date to the Stars, is held every watch a fabulous film on the Thursday night in July & Au- waterfront under the stars. gust (at dusk) at the Great Visit www.delawareriverPlaza at Penn’s Landing events.com for the list of (Columbus Boulevard at featured presentations. Chestnut). Grab the kids, ➜ PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT AT PENN’S LANDING The Philadelphia Orches- *Neighborhood Concert tra returns for the fifth time Series continues The Philto the RiverStage at the adelphia Orchestra’s comGreat Plaza at Penn’s Land- mitment to celebrating the ing on Friday, July 27, at 8 vitality of neighborhoods PM for a FREE Neighbor- throughout the Philadelhood Concert. Philadel- phia region. The Orchestra phia Orchestra Assistant brings the gift of music into Conductor Cristian Mace- communities in a variety of laru and the Orchestra settings and introduces the perform a festive summer- world renowned ensemble time program. The 2012 to new audiences. *sponsored by Wells Fargo
➜ Friday Night Lights Visitors to Penn’s Landing this summer will have more opportunities to enjoy fireworks than ever before! In addition to the traditional display the Saturday prior to the July 4th celebration (this year will be Saturday, June 30th during Taste of Philadelphia), the Delaware
River Waterfront Corporation will present FREE fireworks on six consecutive Fridays debuting Friday, July 27th through August 31st. The fireworks will begin at 9:15 p.m. and be launched near the new RiverStage at Penn’s Landing.
➜ SMOOTH JAZZ SUMMER NIGHTS August marks the 15th sea- of the most captivating and son for the Smooth Jazz musically exhilarating conSummer Nights Concert cert events of the summer. Series on the RiverStage Smooth Jazz aficionados at the Great Plaza at Penn’s will enjoy *Smooth Jazz Landing. This year’s series Summer Nights concerts celebrates women in mu- every Friday night in Ausic. Oleta Adams, Patrice gust beginning at 7:30 pm. Rushen and Sheila E are Visit www.delawarerivera few of the exciting per- events.com for the schedformers in this year’s series ule of performers. which promises to be one *sponsored in part by WDAS-FM, CW Philly 57 & CBS 3.
Stay in touch with Penn’s Landing on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for up-to-the-minute event information all summer long! Follow to gain insider access to activities, festivals and live performances at Festival Pier, Race Street Pier and the Great Plaza. Visit www.facebook.com/ pennslanding or follow www.twitter.com/penns_landing.✻
© Just Born, Inc. 2012.
*sponsored by media partners NBC 10 and B101.1 FM.
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Atlantic Physical Therapy Philadelphia Health Insurance Accepted Auto, Workman’s Comp, Personal Injury “We keep the Care in Healthcare” *New Location* 1208 Tasker Street 2nd Floor Philadelphia, PA 19148 The Graham Building 30 S. 15th Street Mezzanine Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102 Phone 215-271-4100 Fax 215-271-1785
www.atlanticptrehab.com Transportation Available
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PRHon the corner
The Stolfo Funeral Home Where everyone is treated like family Paul C. Stolfo, Director 2536 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376
Dancing with
the Cars by Mark Casasanto
After 18 years of dancing with the same partner (my dear friends at the Honda dealership), they who were once so eager to please such a “valued and loyal customer” as myself, decided that I should sit the last dance out. Picture ladies’ choice and you’re left standing with your back against the wall. But I’m a realist. I am honest enough to look at my situation and understand why any lender would be cautious about entering into a financial agreement with me given the difficulties of the last two years. Like most middle class Americans, however, I did everything possible to stay afloat and live to play another day. On relatively short notice, there I was, without a vehicle for the first time in 18 years. Depressed, confused and searching for answers, I decided the only thing I could do was change partners and dance. But what happens when no one wants to tango? It was time to try something completely out of the norm for me -- patience. Even though I am more of a rip-the-boxopen-forget-the-instructions guy, I convinced myself to practice patience. Starting with finances, I knew what I could afford because, for the last 42 months, Honda was more than happy to take my monthly payment. Armed with a significant down- payment, I was prepared to lay my money down and 36
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gohomephilly.com
drive something - anything - off the lot. Visits to various corners of this great city boasted windshield slogan promises of “An Owner’s Dream!” “Low Mileage!” And the ever-popular, “Has All the Toys!” Survey says... not good! While this might eventually be the solution, I wasn’t quite ready to jump at any of the former beauty queens on display. Tempting as they were, they had been around the block a few times and they were surely somebody else’s headache. I took my plight to social media. Entertaining advice from some of my hipster friends, I came to the realization that maybe, just maybe, I may have to... gulp... share my partner! Never into the group thing, I gave it some quick thought and then dove in head first. Zip-a-dee-doo-dah! Following some exhaustive research, I walked into the local Zipcar office, signed on and promptly used my first car share for a soccer tournament deep down in Chester County. Gas? Not my problem! Insurance? No worries! Keys? No need! I’m not saying this is a long-term relationship, but as the Zipcar slogan goes, “wheels when you want them.” And I’m talking serious friends with benefits! I’ve zipped around Philly in Audis, Mini Coopers and various hybrids. I’ve picked up my kids from their varsity sports on a moment’s notice and more. I actually like the stress-free “dating scene!” According to Peter Bruvik, General Manager of Zipcar Philly, “Gone are the days of finding parking spots and the bottomless tank of gas. Don’t be scared,” he says. “Zipcar’s business model is based on the economics of collaboration. Our members are smart, tech-savvy and money-wise. They understand the trend of sharing. Collaborative consumption is easy, convenient and economical. Just like buying music by the song, we sell car ownership one hour at a time!” And this, at least for now, is how I choose to dance. More information? Visit zipcar.com n
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PRHmusic&art
That’s
Amore
T
he proud stories and ancestral marks of Italian culture can be found all over Philadelphia. Some can be seen in the bricks and stained glass of South Philadelphia’s Catholic churches. Others can be heard over Sunday dinner at Nonna’s house. And some can only be felt through the music. A musical performance of Italian proportions will be presented by St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish on Friday, September 28th. The show was inspired by the book Amore: The Story of Italian American Song, and its author, New Jersey-based Mark Rotella, will host the program. Paired with Rotella’s adept commentary on the decade’s most celebrated singers, City Rhythm Orchestra will perform some of the greatest hits that are chronicled within the book’s pages. Amore tells the story of the great Italian American artists who dominated the pop charts from the 1940s through the 1960s. Rotella 38
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affectionately refers to it as the “Italian decade,” falling somewhere between the end of the big band era and the onset of Beatlemania. It is the time when Frank Sinatra’s fedora and Dean Martin’s cocktail became images etched in the history of pop culture, and when their timeless classics became the soundtrack of a generation. “Because of You,” “That’s Amore,” “I Got the World on a String.” These were the songs of Italian American singers breaking out of their working-class, immigrant neighborhoods and entering mainstream pop culture. Americans everywhere fell in love with their voices, as the Marios, Louies and Frankies took over the barrooms and nightclubs of Brooklyn, the Bronx and South Philly. South Philadelphia certainly plays a role in Amore, from its prime position in the era’s music scene to the stories of Mario Lanza and Al Martino – the neighborhood’s very own crooner legends. gohomephilly.com
by Colleen Heavens
“South Philly is a place that has given so much to American pop music,” Rotella said. “So the setting makes complete sense for a show like this.” Rotella hopped right on board when asked to join the project. It was City Rhythm Orchestra’s Pete Spina who first got the wheels turning. After reading the book, he knew there was definite stage potential. “I really wanted to bring the book to life,” Spina said. “It’s full of so many timeless songs.” Spina is the band leader and saxophone player for City Rhythm Orchestra, a 17-piece big band that’s been rocking nightclubs and venues around Philly for more than 25 years. While the band plays everything from pop and rock to jazz and swing, the Sinatra and Tony Bennet classics are at the center of its heart and soul. “This is the music that is right up our alley,” Spina said. The band also will perform onstage collaborations with singers
Marc Antonelli, Billy Ruth, Steve Ritrovato and Ray Gelato. The show, co-sponsored by Philadelphia RowHome Magazine, will be presented at the Neumann-Goretti Auditorium, located at 10th and Moore Streets. Proceeds will benefit St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. “We’re an Italian parish that likes to keep an eye on our past,” said Spina, a born-and-bred South Philadelphian who was raised listening to these records. He hopes the performance will weave an historical account of these classics with the heart-felt music of his heritage… the music of love, pride and passion. And as Dean Martin crooned, ‘That’s Amore!’ Tickets to “Amore: The Story of Italian American Song” are $20 and can be purchased at the St. Nicholas Rectory, located at 910 Watkins Street, or by calling 215463-1326. St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church is a member of the PRH Business Network. n
Bringing Philadelphia into the 21st Century One Energy Project at a Time
John J. Dougherty, Business Manager
Ray Pescatore named SPBA Person of the Year
R
ay Pescatore, Chief Executive Officer of Citizens Acting Together Can Help, Inc. (CATCH) has been named the 2012 Person of the Year by the South Philadelphia Business Association. For more than 30 years, CATCH has provided treatment, training, education, consultation and family support services to persons with cognitive delays, behavioral health issues, developmental disabilities and substance abuse challenges. Pescatore, who has been with CATCH for over 30 years, credits its success to the caring, handson individuals whose work is indispensable to so many local families. According to Dr. James Moylan, SPBA Executive Board Member, Pescatore’s commitment to the community is an outstanding example of service that spearheads change.
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gohomephilly.com
C.A.T.C.H. CEO on a mission to mend by Colleen Heavens
“In everything he does, he carries on his sleeve that he is a South Philadelphian,” Dr. Moylan said. “He has dedicated his career to helping individuals reach their potential -- lead more rewarding lives.” Pescatore will receive this distinguished honor at the SPBA’s annual Person of the Year Gala on Friday, October 12th, 6:30 p.m. at Galdo’s Catering and Entertainment Complex, 20th Street and Moyamensing Avenue. Proceeds benefit the SPBA’s annual scholarship fund, which provides deserving South Philadelphia students with $1,000 awards toward continuing education. “We want to support the active youth in our community and help fund their pursuit of education,” Dr. Moylan said. For tickets to the event, contact the South Philadelphia Business Association at 215-336-1108 or spba1897@gmail.com.
RH P For What It’s Worth
Clark DeLeon
Val Shively
The Emperor of Oldies by Clark DeLeon
“I
’m having a bad day,” says Val Shively. “I’m usually more manic than this.” It’s hard to imagine Shively on a good day because on a bad day, the man Rolling Stone magazine once dubbed the “emperor of oldies” is as manic as, say, Benny Krass in those famous 10-second -- “You wuz robbed!” -- TV commercials.
The key difference between Benny Krass’ “Store of the Stars” on South Street and Val Shively’s “oldies capital of the world” on Garrett Road in Upper Darby is that Krass actually wanted customers. Shively’s R&B Records store is about as welcoming as an outlaw biker bar. If it had a doormat, it would say “SCRAM”. Instead, there is a big red and white traffic sign on the front door that reads, “DO NOT ENTER” with the smaller words “Unless you know what you want” barely visible in the middle. Above that is another sign. “New Rules,” it reads, “5 Minutes and You’re GONE!” Peeking out between the two signs is a bug-eyed crustacean on a piece of driftwood bearing the words, “The Crab Is In.” The “crab,” of course, is Val Shively. “You walk in here with an attitude and you’re going to meet Godzilla,” Shively warns. I wouldn’t describe him as “bug-eyed”, exactly, but when he tells a personal story, his unblinking blue eyes tend to bulge and glisten like Rodney Dangerfield’s while his arms and hands move in all di42
| rowhome magazine
rections simultaneously. One second he looks like a symphony conductor, the next like a flight deck crewman landing a jet on an aircraft carrier. And this is Shively on a bad day, mind you. In the 50 years that he has been earning a living selling vintage records, the 67-year old Philadelphia music industry icon has had many more good days than bad. “I’m blessed to be doing something I love,” he says. “Most people hate their jobs. I love mine.” Customers, on the other hand. . . not so much. In 1977, Shively told a writer from Rolling Stone, “For some reason, record collecting attracts a bunch of weirdos.” Thirty-four years later, he has softened his language if not his opinion. “Record collectors are basically. . . off center,” Shively says. Another word for “off center” is “eccentric” and Val Shively could be the poster boy for Eccentrics Anonymous. As he speaks, he is standing in a narrow aisle carpeted with cat fur, crud, cardboard scraps and record sleeves on
gohomephilly.com
“I’m blessed to be doing something I love,”
Anyone who Lives, Works, Worships or Studies in Philadelphia can
Open an Account Free Check Card the second floor of his shop. On Thomson from Douglasville, Pa. either side of him are 45 rpm who started hanging out at Val records stacked on 16 shelves Shively’s record store in 1972. from floor to ceiling. This is the In those days, the typical hours messiest of the three similarly of the store were an eccentric stacked floors of his business, 3 p.m. until 4 a.m, talking, playwhich doesn’t look like a busi- ing pinball and listening to muness so much as a reality show sic. On this weekday afternoon, intervention waiting to happen. Thomson has stopped in and “I’m a hoarder,” he says. “I live in the old stories flow. “It’s not like clutter. I save everything. I have I changed his life,” Shively says. every check I’ve ever written. And Thomson replies quietly, And if I die tomorrow, my wife will “Yes, you did.” have everything in the trash by Val Shively’s passion, his raithe weekend.” son d’etre as a collector and a fan, Shively is known internationally is doo wop. He prefers to call the as the guy who has the rare vinyl genre “male vocal harmonies” of recording no one else has. And the 1950’s and 1960’s. He plays he probably does. Somewhere. me one of his favorites, Johhny He’ll let you look for it but don’t Carbone and the Five Discs singask him where. He’s got Chuck ing “Never Let You Go” on an old Dabagian for that. Chuck is Guy fashioned lunchbox-sized 45 Friday to Shively’s Robinson Cru- rpm record player. It’s awesome. soe on this island of oldies, his But Val Shively’s passion is older sole employee for 35 years, ever than an eight-track tape in an since he began hanging out at Ipod world. He knows it’s coming the store as a teenager. to an end, knows he’s a dinosaur “Chuck is the only guy who after the comet struck, knows he knows where everything is,” is extinct yet still walking. Shively says, describing that skill “When I go, this goes,” he says, as “job security.” Knowing where gesturing to the more than four “everything” is in the seemingly million vinyl 45’s stacked above, random chaos of this landfill dis- below and around him. But not guised as a record store is Ein- just yet. Not today. For now, even steinian in its simplicity: e=mc2 on a bad day, Val Shively is the last equals “Ask Chuck.” Ninety-five king of the Doo Wah Diddies. n percent of R&B Records business is mail order and the few Veteran journalist and Philadelphia walk-in customers are either native Clark DeLeon has been accidents, oldies pilgrims or speaking his mind about the city decades-long faithful like Denny he loves for more than 30 years.
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PRHmusic&art
Cedrone’s Flowers Any Occasion. Every Day.
Felicia Punzo is 800 Lombard Street Washington Square West Philadelphia, PA 19147 PH: 215. 629.9858 CELL: 215.990.7812 www.cedronesflowers.com Email: jaz349@comcast.net
“Grown”
photos by John McMullen
PRH joined hundreds of fans at Finnegans Wake for a Single & Video Release Party for South Philly singer Felicia Punzo’s “Grown.” The single was remixed and produced by Giuseppe D. Video by Luis Aponte.
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gohomephilly.com
“I am so amazingly blessed,” Felicia says. “It’s all about believing in your dreams. Never give up.” Her R&B single, “Alone,” was included on the “Winter Music Conference Compilation CD” released in March in Miami. For more updates, follow Felicia Punzo on Facebook.
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PRHmusic&art
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1: Karen Lafferty Award Winning Stylist and Makeup Artist gets Jennifer Ragusa ready for her big day! 2: Jennifer and her “entourage” on their way to the salon. 3: Plaque Presentation from the Gatsby Salon Tour 4: Bob Townsend , Karen Lafferty (Stylist), Donna Ragusa (Mother), Jennifer Ragusa, Frank Olivieri Jr (Owner of Pat’s Steaks), Joe Ragusa (Father) , Geri Rycharski, Albert Schiavo (Grandfather).
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ig hair, fancy clothes and the rock star lifestyle is everything that is connected with the hit Style Network show, Jerseylicious. Jerseylicious, a reality television show that centers around the Gatsby Salon, is jam-packed with all of the beauty, glamour and of course, drama, any reality TV fan loves. Eleven-year-old Jennifer Ragusa, a South Philly local and aspiring singer, won the opportunity of a lifetime to spend the day at the Gatsby Salon in the lap of luxury as an extra on the hit show. Jennifer won this fabulous prize last year through a random drawing contest sponsored by CEO of GRPR Agency Geri Rycharski, the producer and director of the Gatsby Salon Tour. In addition to winning the prize, Jennifer got to meet two of the show’s cast members -- Gigi Liscio and Tracey DiMarco -- who were present for the drawing at a meet & greet at Chickie’s & Pete’s. One year after winning the contest, Jennifer was finally able to receive her winnings as an extra on the set of Jerseylicious, with the support of local businesses like Pat’s Steaks and H&S Limo. On a Sunday in March, Jennifer and the rest of the Ragusa family were picked up in style and whisked off to the glamorous Gatsby Salon in northern New Jersey. “It was an amazing day. I got my hair done, rode in a limo and met the cast of Jerseylicious. It was so much fun,” Jennifer said smiling as she recalled her special day. Not only did Jennifer get the chance to be an extra on her favorite television show, but the rest of the Ragusa family did, as well. Jennifer got her hair done by Gatsby Salon stylist and Jerseylicious star, Gigi Liscio, during taping of the episode.
gohomephilly.com
by Danielle Rosati photos by Rob Schwartz of Who?Mag
Although she got to meet the majority of the cast while taping, unfortunately, she did not get to meet her favorite cast member, Olivia BloisSharpe, who was not present at the salon. Which cast member was most memorable? Jennifer and family say without hesitation, colead makeup artist Doria Pagnotta. “Doria was very kind and extended herself to Jennifer that day the most, more than the other cast members. She made the day very pleasurable,” said Rycharski, who is also Jennifer’s press agent. In addition to hanging out on set, Jennifer was given the opportunity to showcase her singing talent to some of the cast outside of the salon. “It was a lot of fun to sing in front of them,” Jennifer described. Rycharski and the cast were amazed to hear her belt out Halo by Beyonce. The Jerseylicious episode featuring Jennifer is scheduled to air in season four on the Style Network. This day of glamour at the Gatsby Salon will definitely be an unforgettable experience for Jennifer, who is only just beginning to pursue her Hollywood dreams. GRPR Agency & the Ragusa family would like to thank the following for making this day possible for Jennifer Ragusa: ➜T he Gatsby Salon ➜P at’s King of Steaks ➜F rank Olivieri ➜H &S Limousines, owner John DeLuca ➜P hil Stein, Manager of Events for Chickie’s and Pete’s ➜C hickie’s and Pete’s ➜R ob Schwartz of Who?Mag
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PRHmusic&art
Sal Dupree
Rising Above by Bob Wagner
I
t has been said, “true art comes through sadness and tragedy.” I’ve always felt a more apropos statement would be, “true art comes from rising above sadness and tragedy.” This would certainly be true in the case of Sal Dupree.
Sal Dupree is a nationally known veteran performer, vocal and acting coach as well as producer. For 22 consecutive years, Dupree was a favorite at Bally’s Park Place, Taj Mahal, Golden Nugget and the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, where he holds the record for the longest-running act in Atlantic City history. In 1975, he founded the Dupree Performing Arts Studios which has become the largest private performing arts school in New Jersey. However, his students span the globe from Los Angeles to Europe. He has provided talent for major Broadway shows including Annie, The Sound of Music, Peter Pan, Tony and Tina’s Wedding, Sunday in the 48
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gohomephilly.com
Park with George, Les Miserables and Beauty and the Beast. Most recently, he was the Music Supervisor, Producer and featured actor/singer in the movie musical Standing Ovation. While Dupree has performed all over the world and his students or his “kids” as he calls them, span the globe, his story really begins right here in South Philadelphia. Dupree was born Sal Amorello in Brooklyn, New York. Shortly after his birth, his father left the family and his struggling mother relocated the family to Philadelphia. They settled at 9th & Shunk Streets. Times were tough and in 1951, the strain of single motherhood became too much for her. She placed Sal and his sister in the Down-
“If you have any talent, that is God’s gift to you. If you use that talent, that is your gift to God.” town Jewish Orphans Home, later known as the Greenwich Home, hoping they could provide a better life for her children. From 1951 – 1961, this was the only home Dupree knew. He attended Fell School, Furness Junior High and Boone High School, trying his best to bond with “regular” neighborhood kids. Dupree said he grew up with a chip on his shoulder. A father who abandoned him, a mother who did the best she could but could not cope and children who teased him for being an orphan. He said there were many nights he would have gone to bed hungry if it weren’t for the kindness of a woman named Mrs. Neiman, who snuck into his room at the home late at night to give him two bagels with cream cheese. While at the Downtown Home, Dupree not only discovered the inherent good that lies in some people but also his gift -- a golden voice. While trying out for the choir to sing at the annual fundraiser, young Sal so impressed the staff that he was chosen to sing Eddie Fisher’s, “Oh My Papa.” He brought the house to tears. He raised so much money, the staff made him sing the song for 10 straight years. Dupree left the Downtown Home in 1961 at the age of 17. For a while, he did odd jobs to survive and slept in a pool room. One day, while sitting on a bench at Broad Street & Snyder Avenue, stuffing cardboard into the soles of his shoes, he was recognized by Billy Carlucci lead singer of popular Doo-Wop group “Billy & the Essentials” - who heard Dupree sing with a number of Doo-Wop groups in the area. Billy took Sal home for a hot meal and Mrs. Carlucci not only fed him, she insisted he move in until he got back on his feet. Once again, the gentle hand of kindness touched Sal Dupree. Mrs. Carlucci also arranged an audition for Sal, which led to gigs in Las Vegas. A life-long career in music was launched. Dupree says he tells his students, “If you have any talent, that is God’s gift to you. If you use that talent, that is your gift to God.” Sal, we thank you for sharing your knowledge, talent and passion for music with us all. You have undoubtedly made your students not only better singers, but, more importantly, better people. The Dupree Performing Arts Studios are located at 199 New Road in Lindwood, New Jersey 08221 n
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1703 S. Broad Street • 215.463.5333 rowhome magazine
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PRHmusic&art
We need the sheets for the table! photos by Andreozzi Photography
Local crooner Ralph “Ralphie Head” Abbruzzi brings his style of Louis Prima to a standing-room-only crowd of fans at Galdo’s Catering & Entertainment center. Prima, the “King of Swing,” combined jazz, swing, big band and pop for a legendary sound that resonates in his timeless hits like “Lazy Mary,” “Buono Sera,” “Just a Gigolo,” “I Ain’t Got Nobody,” “Jump Jive an’ Wail,” and “Angelina” (named for his mother). In his tribute to Louis Prima, Abbruzzi incorporates the same “exuberant personality” into his act. Judging by the audience’s response, Ralphie hits the nail on the Head.
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gohomephilly.com
St. Anthony of Padua Regional Catholic School 910 Pierce Street, Philadelphia PA 19148 Students will experience the best of: Catholic Environment & Values Academics Co-curricular opportunities Scholarships & Financial Aid Athletics
COME VISIT To meet the Principal, Sister Mary Esther Carsele, M.P.F. arrange a tour, and receive registration materials, please call the school office at 215-468-0353 www.stnicksphila.com
The St. Nicholas of Tolentine school family welcomes the Annunciation school family to their site for the 2012 – 2013 school year!!
PRHmusic&art
Frankie Avalon
Philly-born & Jersey-fresh
TONY’S
I
TIRES
f Tony Bennett left his heart in San Francisco, Frankie Avalon left his heart and soul in South Philadelphia. “I wouldn’t trade or change my childhood for anything,” said the former child prodigy and teenage idol whose cultural references are both acute and obscure. A native son of the city’s tight-knit neighborhood, Avalon was playing his trumpet to television audiences across the country by the time he was 12 years old. As a teen, he played with friend and local talent, Bobby Rydell, in Rocco and the Saints. In 1959, his single “Why” spent five weeks in the number one slot on the Billboard Hot 100. Thirty-one charted U.S. Billboard singles followed between 1958 and 1962, including “Just Ask Your Heart,” “I’ll Wait for You,” “Bobby Sox to Stockings” and “A Boy Without a Girl.”
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by Maria Merlino photos by Maria Merlino
Avalon also starred alongside Annette Funicello in a host of popular “beach” comedy movies during the 1960s including “Beach Party” and “Beach Blanket Bingo,” earning him iconic star status during that era. His Teenage Angel performance of “Beauty School Dropout” in the hit 1978 musical “Grease” introduced Avalon to a new generation of fans. “I live on the West Coast, but it’s just a location. Growing up here was the best and it made me the person I am today,” Avalon reminisces. “I played with kids of all ethnic groups and learned different cultures. One of my best friends was Filipino. We just got along with ev-
gohomephilly.com
eryone,” he smiles. “Whenever I return, I see that the city has changed, but always for the better. It’s got great food and atmosphere. It’s one of the best cities in the country.” A loyalist, Avalon recently celebrated 50 years of marriage to wife Kathryn, with whom he has eight children: Frankie Jr., Tony, Dina, Laura, Joseph, Nicolas, Kathryn and Carla. The Avalons also have 10 grandchildren. “My son Frank plays drums and Tony plays the guitar and teaches at the Rock Nation School. I’m so happy that my very talented kids tour with me.”
“I wanted to give a gift to my brother,” Belfiore begins. “But what do you give a man who has everything? We had this picture of our mom and I used that as my inspiration. There is also a high demand for Jersey tomatoes. My son and I put the two of them together and began a canning company. It was a real surprise to my brother!” A man of his own terms, he was an original member of the 1960s Golden Boys of Bandstand alongside Fabian and Bobby Rydell. Nowadays, he says he “doesn’t do oldies shows” but performs at least 15 concerts a year and makes many personal appearances. Never one to lean on his laurels, Avalon became a marketing maven, creating a health and cosmetic line called Frankie Avalon Products. One of his signature items, Twilight Tan, is a self-tanner that he introduced on the Home Shopping Network. He also developed homeopathic remedies called Zero Pain and Rescue Cream. Theresa Belfiore, Frankie’s sister, joins her brother backstage at one of his concerts. She is holding a can of tomatoes with a label depicting the smiling countenance of a woman in an apron. “She’s our mother, Mary,” Theresa smiles, pointing to the label. The product she holds is called Avallone Tomatoes -- “Jersey-fresh” crushed tomatoes that can be enjoyed yearround. Belfiore and her son Stephen formed the company a little over a year ago as a tribute to their family’s matriarch. The company, Theresa explains, is a gift to her brother Frankie. “I wanted to give a gift to my brother,” Belfiore begins. “But what do you give a man who has everything? We had this picture of our mom and I used that as my inspiration. There is also a high demand for Jersey tomatoes. My son and I put the two of them together and began a canning company. It was a real surprise to my brother!” Avallone all-natural tomatoes, Theresa adds, are grown by local farmers and canned fresh from the fields. “We proudly display the New Jersey Fresh logo on our cans,” Belfiore points out. What does Frankie Avalon have to say about his family’s new business venture? “We all like to cook,” he affirms. “Every time I open up a can of her tomatoes, it smells and tastes like love.” n rowhome magazine
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A Sterling Performer with a
by Hannah Heckner photos by John McMullen
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Heart of Gold
F
elicia Punzo believes in fate and good luck. But she’s not going to rely on either to make her dreams come true. The 18 year-old South Philadelphian has the self-possession and clearheadedness of a woman twice her age and she’s already accomplished more than most 36-year-olds. Felicia is the host of a dance television show, has 22 songs and 4 albums available for purchase on iTunes and CD Baby and is working on an accelerated schedule to get a degree in the highly-selective Vocal Performance program from University of the Arts in two years’ time. She also is working alongside music writers and producers that have worked with the likes of Jennifer Lopez and Justin Beiber. What motivates her to follow her dreams? “It’s the kids. It’s my fans,” she answers without hesitation. This dedication to her fans has inspired almost every move in Felicia’s career. Her most recent performances were not profitdriven shows with high-priced tickets. Instead, she stepped out to support local events including the Italian Festival and a fundraiser to benefit the Philadelphia Light the Night Walk team supporting her friend Tonimarie Variello, who recently was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease.
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Felicia’s desire to get her fans dancing and singing brought Party Rockers Dance Reality Hour and Tween Scene to NBC Nonstop’s Saturday line-up. Produced by her father, Frank Punzo, and Kerri Gallagher-Salome, who also was behind the 1980’s popular teen dance show Dancin' on Air the show focuses on today’s music. It brings kids from the Philadelphia and South Jersey areas to Chickie’s & Pete’s to move to top-40 dance tunes and rock to performances by the area’s rising musical stars. The show also features
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215.339.0333 www.troast-singleyagency.com interviews and other activities that emphasize the program’s main purpose: to give kids an outlet to express themselves and, more importantly, to have fun. Felicia wants to carry her message to “be yourself” past Saturday television programming and into school auditoriums across the region. She’s currently working on an anti-bullying campaign called the “I’m Just A Kid” tour. Based on her song of the same title, the tour’s goal is to reach school kids who are both bullying and being bullied and urge them to seek their own dreams…not belittle the dreams of others. Felicia says she followed the mantra “live, pray, music, and always believe” when things got tough for her. She said she would love to tell others who are having a tough time to “just hold on.” And to “realize that in the long-run, this won’t matter.” The possibilities for Felicia’s future seem boundless. She’s currently working on a new album with producer Giuseppe D (who’s also worked with Justin Beiber) at Robin’s Entertainment. In the shortrun, she’s looking forward to recording more songs, attracting clothing sponsors and other financial backing, and graduating from UArts. After that, it seems a move to New York City or Los Angeles is in order. But no matter where her future takes her, she says she is “Here to make Philly proud!” You can follow Felicia on twitter @feliciapmusic or visit her website www.feliciapunzo.com. Party Rockers Tween Scene is on NBC Nonstop Saturday mornings at 11 and the Dance Reality Hour is on at 12 am Saturday night. n
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PRHmusic&art
Chickie Pagano
Old School soul gets a teenage makeover by Hannah Heckner photos by John McMullen
D
on’t let Chickie Pagano’s sweet name fool you. She’s not making saccharine songs that are as toothache-inducing as those marshmallow chicks on supermarket shelves around Easter. This driven 16 year-old lists performers like Frank Sinatra, Adele, Amy Winehouse and Ella Fitzgerald as inspirations, not just Disney-pop stars favored by so many of her cohorts. 56
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Chickie’s love for old school Soul and R&B is more than apparent in her album Here Comes the Show, currently available on iTunes. The album includes covers of the Jackson 5 and Joss Stone along with some of her own original songs. Each has a flair. A sultry sound and young verve all of its own. While Chickie shines in the studio, her real love is performing in front of an audience. “I just love the sound and energy of live music,” she says on a busy workday morning. Chickie hopes one day soon to assemble her own band, but she seems to be doing just fine without permanent accompaniment. She recently appeared as a guest performer on local singer Felicia Punzo’s show - Party Rockers Dance Reality Hour - and has a full schedule of summer performances awaiting her including Yachtstock Rising Stars in June and a Philadelphia Soul game in August.
Before the last school bell rings this academic year, however, the sophomore at Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) has her hands full. Chickie is currently in the thick of rehearsals for the school’s production of RENT. She’s playing Maureen, one of the rock musical’s main characters. “It’s definitely fun to play someone totally different,” she says of the part. Anyone familiar with RENT’s plot knows that this character is quite different from the lifestyle of this driven and polite teenager. When she looks past the RENT performance and her busy summer schedule, Chickie looks forward to a future that focuses on developing her art. She aspires to pursue a music degree from a highly respected university the likes of NYU, UCLA or USC. And one day, she hopes to compose her own music and master the piano. Once all of those skills are intact, she dreams of going on tour with a band. “But that’s a long shot!” she quickly adds. After speaking with this poised and talented young Philadelphian, however, I can’t agree with her there. n
WAY BEYOND GAME DAY
1100 Pattison Ave. | Philadelphia, PA 19148 xfinitylive.com | facebook.com/XFINITYLive | twitter.com/Xfinitylive
PRHmusic&art
Tony Luke Jr.
Serving up Sounds
T
by G.W. Miller III
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ony Luke Jr. sits in his BMW SUV and thumbs through his iPhone, which is plugged into the car’s stereo. He scrolls through a litany of songs until he finds “Always in my heart,” a 1994 track that he recorded. A gentle keyboard intro emerges from the speakers. “You mean more to me than I could ever show you,” Luke croons on the re-
gohomephilly.com
“It was a shock to me to find that Tony can sing, and sing well,” says producer Craig White, who spent 18 years working with Gamble & Huff and has worked on several projects with Luke. cording, his smooth, tender voice flowing over the easy-listening, R&B beats. And then the real-life Luke begins singing along with the recording, his right hand occasionally pressing down onto an air keyboard. It’s surreal to see this bald, stocky, tattooed guy with a goatee who is probably best known as the king of the roast pork sandwich – singing so soulfully, confidently and well, surprisingly good. “People don’t look at me as a performer,” he offers after the impromptu concert. “They look at me as a cook. But I’ve done music way longer than I ever did food.”
The 50-year old, South Phillyborn foodie entrepreneur has been singing since before he attended the High School for Creative and Performing Arts, and since long before he, his father and brother opened their now iconic sandwich shop on Oregon Avenue in 1992. He’s had major label deals and he’s written, produced and performed on a variety of projects, including movie soundtracks. This past spring, he toured with Daryl Hall, of Hall & Oates fame, and every night he sang on stage - with Hall singing harmony. “It was a shock to me to find that
Tony can sing, and sing well,” says producer Craig White, who spent 18 years working with Gamble & Huff and has worked on several projects with Luke. Luke’s latest venture takes his lifelong passion for music one step further. Early this year, Luke and longtime friend Joe “2Cool” Callari, a Power 99 DJ for 17 years, launched their own label. “We had this pool of talent that I wanted to work with and do things with but I had no vehicle,” Luke says. “So you know what? We said, ‘Let’s just start a label. We’ll call it Philly Records and we’ll get it all out.’” Luke and British singer/songwriter Michael Constantino are the only artists signed so far but Luke and Callari have big plans. “We want to do kind of a throwback from the 90s – Luke and Callari, featuring other artists,” Luke explains. “We’ll sign artists to a one record deal. Whatever track we think fits them, we’ll give them that track but it will be under our guise.” The goal is to give talented people an outlet to get their music out. It’s a direct response to the constantly evolving music industry that let Luke hang out to dry during his prime years. “To be perfectly honest, I don’t give a shit if I don’t make a dime,” he says. “It’s what I want to do. For me to be writing and creating
and producing and putting stuff out? It’s what I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid.” “It’s more of a passion, a love of what we do, than anything else,” adds Callari. “It’s about making people happy.”
Back in the car, Luke pops on another track. “I sound different in every song,” he says. “I sound like Neil Diamond in this one. It’s really weird.” Then he pulls out his iPad and searches videos. After scrolling through a few film clips, TV shows and commercials, he finds a gem – a 1985 clip of him recording “She’s a freak.” He sports a lush head of hair and a sleeveless sports coat that’s fully unbuttoned, revealing his bare chest. He rocks back and forth in the video as he breathily delivers the Rick James-esque lyrics. Joe Callari is in the background singing back up. “I always seemed to be ahead of the curve, which is not always a good thing,” Luke says. He’d been in Los Angeles for a few years by that point but breaking through was difficult. His music couldn’t easily be categorized. “Frankly, we don’t know what to do with you,” Luke recalls a label executive telling him. “We can’t market you as a black artist be-
cause you’re white. And we can’t market you as a white artist because you do black music.” He tried another label but faced similar issues. His music was never widely distributed. “I was so scarred by that, I literally quit music,” he says. Then he came back to Philly. That’s when the family began transforming their lunch truck business into a cheesesteak sandwich empire.
“There is zero money in selling records,” Luke admits. There’s money in touring, he believes, and Luke is nothing if not a performer. As he plays his music in his car, he bobs his head, taps his fingers and occasionally plays air guitar while singing along. And he constantly looks around to ensure someone is watching. “Years ago, you toured to sell records,” he says. “Now you give records away so you can tour.” He’s already famous – locally, if not within the food world at-large. And he’s not doing this for the money. The label is about something larger. “When I leave, I don’t want to leave a building,” Luke offers. “I want to leave a legacy of people who were touched by the music that I wrote or the performances that I did. That’s what it’s about.”n rowhome magazine
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De Fino Law Associates, P.C. Don’t Settle for Less
PRHmusic&art
The Hollywood
Hotline by Anthony E. McBride
Michael Anthony De Fino
Vincent Anthony De Fino
Attorney at Law
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A
merican Bandstand still holds the title of television’s longest-running variety show, and from 1956-1964, Dick Clark broadcasted AB from West Philadelphia until moving the production to Hollywood where it aired until 1987. Clark passed away on April 18th 2012 in Santa Monica, California. He was 82. Prophetically, Madonna told Dick Clark in 1984 that she wanted “to rule the world�. She hasn’t stopped since and is set to debut the North American leg of her 2012 World-Wide Concert Tour in Philadelphia on August 28th! Insiders say she has something special up both her sleeves for her Philly fans! The Queen of Pop will turn 54 on August 16th. Britney Spears has sold her Beverly Hills home for $4.25 million dollars, which was $1 million over the asking price! After all, this was the mansion where the once fragile pop princess had her infamous 2008 meltdown. Naturally, Britt’s beau, Jason Trawick, is set to become a coconservator of Britney’s lengthy court-ordered conservatory. The State of California is the only one buying the food at the home of Nadya “Octomom� Suleman, who is now officially on welfare. She professed it was the last thing she wanted to do. This is after Suleman reportedly got about $10,000 to pose in nude
panties and not much else for the British magazine Closer. Heidi Klum also has made her affairs official while dating her Germany’s Next Top Model co-star Thomas Hay; she simultaneously filed for divorce from estranged husband Seal after 8 years of marriage. She filed for joint legal and primary physical custody of their 4 kids. All while finding new romance. Things could get nasty as Seal will undoubtedly fire back for more than just visitation rights! Could it be half her fortune?The first spinoff from the Jersey Shore has aired and while Pauly D has been spinning records in Vegas, fellow castmate Mike “The Situation� Sorrentino completely spun out of control and entered, then exited the famed Cirque Lodge rehab center in Utah for substance abuse (his first stint at rehab was back in 2007). Re-casting “the Sitch� is probable. Meanwhile, Snookie has seemingly given up getting pickled for her pregnancy! She is due this August and her spin-off with castmate J-Wow is still due to premiere sometime this year, but it could be a yawn fest if taping includes non-alcoholic beverages! Season 7 of America’s Got Talent returns to the airwaves sporting the newest addition to the judging panel; self-proclaimed “King of all Media� Howard Stern! This will undoubtedly be the ratings thief of the summer! n
PRHPETS
How to Pet-Proof
Your Home
A
by Dana Spain CEO of PAWS
s you do with children, you must take precautions to prevent your pets from dangerous situations in your home. Pets bring joy and love into our lives but they can also give us quite a scare when they get into things they shouldn’t. Every year, thousands of pet owners are faced with emergencies when pets swallow something they shouldn’t. Some items are so common, you may not realize they are a risk to the health of your pet. Here is a quick, room-by-room guide to help safeguard your furry friends.
The Kitchen While it may seem kind to feed Spot from the table, some simple foods are toxic to dogs. Grapes, raisins and currants can result in kidney failure in dogs. Chocolate, especially the kind used in baking, can result in acute stomach and intestinal problems. Xylitol, currently considered the most canine-toxic “human food”, is a sweetener found in pediatric medications, mints, candy and commercial baked goods and causes liver failure. Read your labels. Fatty table scraps, onions, garlic, coffee and alcohol can have disastrous results and are often found in other food items (like chocolate chips in cookies or garlic on that nice piece of steak).
The Bathroom Keep chemicals and medications in locked cabinets and out of reach of your four-legged friends. Cats are especially curious in the bathroom, often finding their way into an open cabinet and playing with loose pills.
The Bedroom We often forget that Spot and Fluffy may join us to sleep but they wander during the night and get into trouble. Do not leave medications or sleep aids on your dresser or nightstand. Make sure mothballs in closets or drawers are kept in containers that cannot be chewed or ripped open and ingested. Close jewelry boxes and sewing kits before bed. While you may think that string, ribbons and rubber bands are safe for your playful feline, swallowing a piece of these items can obstruct the stomach, intestines and rectum leading to painful maladies.
The Living Room Certain plants and flowers can be deadly to your animals. While we all like poinsettias and lilies for our holiday displays, they are especially poisonous to cats. Air fresheners and potpourri baskets should be treated with the same mindfulness as flowers. The smell may attract your pet so make sure they are in solid containers that cannot be opened by your pet. If you have a cat, avoid liquid air fresheners and candles that kitty may try to touch, inadvertently burning herself. Dogs love a chew toy. Unfortunately, sometimes the remote control can look like fun. Batteries in remotes and cell phones can result in severe intestinal damage. Tack down electrical cords to make them less attractive to Fluffy to bite into or play with. Pet-proofing your house is the simplest way to keep your cat and dog safe. The above list is simply a guide. The best way to safeguard your house is to walk through at your dog’s eye level and see what dangers exist. For your cat, don’t forget to look up, as well. Unlike a child who can learn to avoid household dangers, only you can keep your pet safe. PAWS, a 501c3, is Philadelphia’s largest animal rescue and only nokill shelter. We are funded entirely by donations. Help us continue our mission and offer services to those in need. Donate online at www. PhillyPAWS.org or mail to: PAWS 100 N. 2nd Street Philadelphia, PA 19106
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PRHfilm
Showbiz’
Breakin’ into
by Leo Rossi
West Coast
Writer, Actor, Producer Eastman-Rossi Productions
T
he question I am asked the most is, “How can I break into Show Business?” While I may not have the ultimate answer (if I did, I’d be rich), I do have some insight. For one, age is just a number, baby! Peter Falk was an accountant before he tried acting when he was 29. Charles Durning was in his 30s, teaching dance at Arthur Murray’s Dance Studios, before he decided on acting. Dennis Farina was a cop in Chicago and didn’t start acting until he was 45. But is there such a thing as too young? I am very sensitive on this issue. There is always the debate. Does the child really want to do this? Or is the child being pushed by a parent who is trying to live vicariously through the child? In my career, I have been involved with two young actors who were child stars but didn’t really want acting as a career. They were pushed into it and it resulted in a distorted look on life and ultimately, tragic deaths. Corey Haim and Brad Renfro were basically good kids who I worked with in movies. Unfortunately,
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they got caught up in the “Hollywood scene” that led to drugs and a premature ending to two talented, but lost, young actors. I am a Philly guy who had no family or friends in Show Business. I read in the Philadelphia Inquirer that auditions were being held for a play at the Abbey Stage Door Theatre at 6600 Rising Sun Avenue. I decided to take a shot. Dumb luck and maybe a little bit of talent got me a part in the play, “Butterflies Are Free.” I realized that this was my calling in life and I would work harder than anybody to make my dream come true. Thirty-eight years later, I don’t regret that choice and the sacrifices that went with it. Ciao Philly! P.S. - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE PHILADELPHIA FILM OFFICE and congrats to their fearless leader Sharon Pinkenson for fighting the good fight! P.P.S. - My wife Lynn EastmanRossi and I would like everyone to check out “Hotel Impossible” on the Travel Channel, HGTV and The Food Network. We are Co-Executive Producers on the show! ■
East Coast
AVALLONE TOMATOES
Tune In & Unplug by Sharon Pinkenson
Film.org
Executive Director, Greater Philadelphia Film Office written by Nicole Giles
offers something for Filmmakers & Film Fans
W
ant to have some fun? Visit www.film.org, then text a code. You can win free pre-release movie tickets! This new partnership between the Greater Philadelphia Film Office (GPFO) and Allied-THA, a premier industry advertising and PR firm, is just one of the cool features available for movie-lovers on the new Film. org. Following the launch of its new website, Film.org—an online interface primarily developed with the producer, film crew and vendors in mind—GPFO highlights several new features that cater to film fans, experts, aspiring filmmakers, residents and students. Free Screenings: Interested in seeing new releases before they’re released? Film.org, in partnership with Allied-THA, will feature regular Text Contests for avid movie-goers stalking the next cult classic! Check often. Text early. Blogs: Our local film community is nothing if not vocal, so GPFO launched a new blog in April featuring a variety of interesting topics like Green Production, reviews on new equipment, how to scout for locations, commentary from local filmmakers and GPFO staff as well as links to popular industry blogs. PicTour: The Greater Philadelphia Film Office channel is now live on PhillyInFocus.com. Download the app for our signature Philadelphia In The Movies PicTour. Explore Center City neighborhoods using Google maps, production photos and
cool, ‘behind-the-scenes making-of’ insider information! Festival Schedules, Workshops: Film.org visitors can search by county or event type to find out about a range of filmmaker events in the region. Festival schedules have also been added. Please visit our Event Calendar to keep track of calls for submissions, special events and screenings. “When we kicked off our new website, we wanted to keep the main thing, the main thing. Film. org is a resource for production professionals. However, because Greater Philadelphia is such a media hub, we also wanted to incorporate some features for the folks who support and are inspired by what we do. You want to see that new movie before it’s released; register for the next creative networking event; read our Blog about the haps at Sundance or Tribeca or Comic Con, visit Film.org!”. About The Greater Philadelphia Film Office: The Greater Philadelphia Film Office (GPFO) is a “film commission” representing Southeastern Pennsylvania that officially serves the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia. A non-profit economic development agency committed to the growth of the regional film production industry, GPFO has been responsible for impacting the local economy with nearly $4 billion since 1992. Please visit http://www.film.org for more information. ■
“MOM MADE IT BEST WITH JERSEY FRESH!” Portions of the proceeds will benefit Eden Autism Services. www.avallonetomatoes.com Frankie Avalon
photo by Phil Kramer
rowhome magazine
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 PRHTIPs FROM THE PROS
m21st Annualn Irish Fall Festival September 20, 21, 22, 23rd, 2012 North Wildwood, NJ
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& rder LawO
F  ake ID? Real Penalties
by Frank C. DePasquale Jr., Esquire
Q: I am behind on my student loans. What can I do? Can my wages be attached? A:Unfortunately, you are not alone. There is help though. All lenders have Deferment, Consolidation and Rehabilitation programs that, if you qualify, can provide the means and time you may need to get on your feet. In fact, if the debt collectors do not offer you these programs, they can be sued for not advising you of your options. And yes, the Federal Government can attach your wages and bank account but you must first be notified of a dispute period and process to contest it. If you are in default, do not hide from your mail. Consult with a professional to learn your rights.
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Legal
Q: My daughter is renting a shore house with her friends in Wildwood. The lease looks standard. Is there anything I should look for before signing it? A:Do not sign it until an attorney reviews it. Most of the leases I have reviewed include personal guarantees that have to be signed by the parents of each tenant and all of them limit the number of guests, if any, that can visit. The landlords are using these extremely restrictive leases to evict the children as soon as the most minor violation of the lease occurs.
Q: My son was charged with having a fake ID and had it confiscated at Xfinity Live. What is he facing?
A:For a first offense, he faces a minimal fine and a 90-day loss of his driving privileges. For a second violation, a fine up to $500 and a 1-year suspension and for any subsequent violations, a fine up to $500 and a 2-year suspension.
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Legal Questions
Legal questions for Frank DePasquale? Email him at info@ gohomephilly.com or mail to PRH Law & Order, PO Box 54786, Phila., PA 19148. Please include your name, address & phone number for verification purposes. PRH will not publish your last name.
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Four Generations of Our Family Serving Your Family rowhome magazine
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PRH HEALTH
The Hands of
Time
“Stress is the trash of modern life. We all generate it but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.” Danzae Pace
by Lauren Gordon
PROFESSIONAL
Aesthetics Wellness C E N T E R
Love the way life looks on you
PROFESSIONAL
Dr. Richard J. Dittrich
Aesthetics Wellness C E N T E R
Love the way life looks on you
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Job Name: PAWC Logo – B&W Font(s): Dax – Medium Trajan Pro – Regular
gohomephilly.com ©2011 Albert Magonagle. All rights reserved.
S
ometimes life can feel like you are standing in a crowded room screaming at the top of your lungs, one woman shared regarding her hectic lifestyle. And no one even bothers to look your way. The kicker? You’re not even sure why you are so stressed out. Good job, good family, good friends. If things are seemingly going according to plan, why are you feeling so lousy? Step back. Breathe. Realize the reasons behind your malaise are not as mysterious as you think.
According to Dr. Richard Dittrich, Medical Director of the Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center, he and his staff are committed to helping every patient achieve the invigorating wealth of a healthy lifestyle. By combining medical expertise, advanced technology and a personalized, all-natural aesthetics & wellness program unique to every client’s needs, Dr. Dittrich says that patients will look their best and feel healthier, too. “I’ve been searching for new and innovative ways to help my patients,” says Richard Ditttrich, D.O., a 30+-year veteran in the field of gynecology. “When you are treating the whole person, you have to evaluate every single factor.” Since the Wellness Center opened about a year ago, patients have been reaping the rewards of the successful, physician-directed treatments Dr. Dittrich provides including Anti-Aging Therapies, Bio Identical Hormone Replacement and Weight Loss programs. And since medical offerings are constantly changing, the staff at PAWC wants to make sure that every patient has access to the most current, state-of-the-art services available. In light of these advancements, Dr. Dittrich is gearing up to provide patients with additional hormone replacement therapies like SotoPelle Pellet Therapy. He said he also is working with neurotransmitters that address chemical inconsistencies that occur naturally as we age.
Are you looking for a weightloss program that actually works? Dr. Dittrich says his Center for Medical Weight Loss is getting rave revues from patients feeling its effects as early as six weeks. He says he also is investigating other weight loss plans like the HCG and OWL diets to provide his clients with a fullrange of options. Both of these plans use pregnancy hormones to promote weight loss. ➜ A Balancing Act “You have to first understand that the nervous system is extremely complex,” Dr. Dittrich states. “Your body has neurotransmitters that control every single response in the body,” he explains. Sometimes, these transmissions are interrupted. The body relies on its natural chemicals - or hormones - to properly stimulate these transmissions through the nervous system. Hormonal imbalances, like those that occur during menopause, can wreak havoc on the body’s delicate system. An all-natural remedy, Bio Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) not only restores those hormones to optimal levels, it replicates the exact chemical makeup of your own hormones. Replacing the hormones that are deficient in your body during menopause helps alleviate a long list of unpleasant symptoms like fatigue, memory loss, insomnia, low libido, wrinkles and dry skin. With the addition of SotoPelle, Dr. Dittrich now offers patients
Staff & h ic r t it D . r Dear D er. No t t e b g in p e e l S “I feel great. of the night TV. Carb more middle cially at night, are cravings, espess anxious. I can gone. I feel le a book without actually read nd down to do the jumping up a rity. Peace. Serenity.’ laundry. ‘Cla D.J.
a virtually painless insertion of natural hormones in pellet form to address these imbalances. The treatment, which lasts 4-6 months, offers both women and men another effective, convenient hormone replacement option. The hormone pellets, which are injected under the skin, are made up of either estradiol or testosterone-- both regulated by the FDA. The hormone pellets contain pure hormone (99.89%) and a human fatty acid (0.2%) to bind them together (unlike synthetic fillers) and are fused into very small solid cylinders which are about the size of a grain of rice. “It is like physically turning back the clock. You will have more mental clarity, a better drive and even sexual enhancement,” Dr. Dittrich promises. As with the nervous system’s neurotransmitters, the body’s endocrine (which contains the glands and hormones that control many of the body’s functions, including metabolism and mood) and immune systems are interwoven and slowly change over time. Each system impacts the other. If one is out of sync, the body is off balance. The resulting symptoms, like depression, can be treated naturally with hormonal replacement therapies such as compounded hormone creams and SotoPelle therapies - both of which which are painless with no significant side effects, Dittrich says. “Other than restoring serenity and sanity into your life,” he quips.
➜ Moving Forward Dr. Dittrich says he will continue to explore new medically managed weight loss programs on behalf of his long list of clients. “I participate in seminars across the country to see what is best for my patients,” he says. “I am looking for new therapies with positive, lasting effects that are medically safe. What does he like most about some of the new diet programs? “There is a higher caloric intake which is more manageable for some of our patients.” According to Dr. Dittrich, PAWC now offers a full range of aesthetic treatments and procedures, including Botox, Dysport and dermal fillers to enhance a patient’s facial appearance. Pushing the envelope in order to eliminate wrinkles and erase years of sun damage, skin care treatments including advanced laser techniques support his current Cosmetic filler lineup: Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane. Patients are thoroughly evaluated -- blood sampling, saliva testing -- before Dr. Dittrich recommends an effective course of action. As Medical Director of the Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center, Dr. Dittrich says he takes each client’s unique medical history into account before determining the best course of action. “I am here to tell you that you can look and feel your best at every stage of your life. And we are here to do everything we can to restore your peace of mind.” The Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center is a member of the PRH Business Network prh
“I feel happier, I’m healthier, I sleep better, I eat better…..” M.
“My experience w BioIdentical Hormith been really great. ones has on them for abou I’ve been and I feel much bt a year I’m much calmer etter now. much better at nig. I sleep ht.” R.I. rowhome magazine
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PRHHEALTH
A The most dangerous sport for women? Three cheers for the Cheerleader! by Dr. James E. Moylan, D.C
2009 report by the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research cites cheerleading as the “most dangerous female sport in the United States.” Two-thirds of severe school sports injuries result from cheerleading. As a result of increased competitiveness, cheerleading jumps, splits and acrobatic tumbles have become the blindside hits, collisions and flying tackles of their football counterparts. While injuries have made cheerleading the most dangerous sport for young American women, experts say that the risk and severity of injury can be kept to a minimum with Chiropractic care. Chiropractors identify injuries early and properly manage them before they progress into something more serious, say individuals like Krista Parks, executive director for the National Cheer Safety Foundation. Parks, severely injured in a cheerleading trauma in 2003, credits chiropractic care with her pain management. She recommends consistent chiropractic care to help make cheerleading safer and promote faster healing after injury. Some of the most common cheerleader injuries include: ➜ Overuse of the shoulders, wrists and elbows
➜ Neck injuries ➜ Head traumas ➜ Fractured wrists and dislocations-- which tend to happen from falls onto hard gym floors and tracks Cheerleaders are true athletes. They endure tremendous amounts of physical stress. Periods of rest and down-time between extended seasons is a must, as is weight training to strengthen shoulders and upper body muscles. These help to reduce the risk of injury and manage the wear and tear that occurs over the long season. Cheerleaders also tend to suffer repetitive motion injuries like patellar tendinitis, ankle sprains, stress fractures, hip strains and joint inflammation. There are also low-back injuries that can become chronic without proper care. To perform some of the athletic gymnastic moves required in cheerleading, it is vitally important that all muscles and joints are working properly. No matter the level of involvement (grade school, high school, college or professional), the proper care and rehabilitation are necessary to ensure the best results. prh Dr. James E Moylan, D.C,. Chiropractic Physician, is a member of the PRH Business Network.
St. Monica Manor We’re in your Neighborhood!
Short-term Rehabilitation Skilled Nursing Care Stop by to see our beautiful new Chapel and Short-term Rehab Unit! 68
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2509 South 4th Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-271-1080 stmonicamanor.org
Atlantic Physical Therapy
Taking Care of
business by Bob O’Brien photo by John McMullen
W
hen in pain, most of us want the comfort of a friendly face, someone who relates to us as a person rather than just a patient. If you are looking to forge such a relationship with your caregivers, Joe Mariutti, a partner in Atlantic Physical Therapy along with Robert Hammond, Virgil Mariutti, and Sal DiNardo, would like you to give their rehab center a try. Mariutti compares the service at his locations -- the newest is conveniently located at 1208 Tasker Street -- to an “old school mom and pop store,” where everyone knows your name. “We try to eliminate any stress of getting from point A to point B,” Mariutti says. That’s why Atlantic offers free transportation to and from their facilities and tokens for more independent patients who want to take public transportation. CEO Robert Hammond started Atlantic Physical Therapy in 1999. Five locations already existed in Maryland and Delaware when he saw a need for his type of business in Philadelphia. Mariutti, a graduate of St. Joe’s Prep and St. Joe’s University, teamed up with Hammond last year. Hammond has been a close friend of the Mariutti family for years. “He’s someone I consider an uncle,” Mariutti said. “He’s a man for others. He’s a gentleman.” The result was two new Atlantic locations in Philadelphia, including one in Center City and
one in South Philly. At 27, Mariutti is responsible for running the two Philadelphia locations. His duties include marketing and networking on behalf of Atlantic. Mariutti thinks of himself as a “product of his environment,” and looks at working so close to home as returning the favor to those who taught him valuable life lessons while growing up. “I was raised on the foundation that being a man for others is a blueprint for success,” he says. “I believe my biggest asset is being able to relate to everyone in the community. “ To that end, Mariutti tries to assist the community by offering the best services available. “We pride ourselves with offering our community the highest level of care,” he adds. Atlantic addresses a wide range of physical ailments within its patient population, but it all starts with a standard evaluation. The evaluation determines who you go to next – to one of the three physical therapists or three orthopedic surgeons working in their Philadelphia locations – and who you’ll stay with while you’re there. In the end, it’s all about getting patients back to their everyday lives and out of therapy as quickly as possible while doing the job right. “We want to make sure we get them healthy,” he said. To view more photos of the facility,visit www. atlanticptrehab.com. Atlantic Physical Therapy is a member of the PRH Business Network prh
CRUISE
PLANNERS
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LIZ EMORY Cruise Specialist
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PRHHEALTH
✚ pregnancy. With oral contraceptives, you can opt for a shorter, lighter period by choosing a pill with a dose pack containing 24 hormonal pills with 4 placebos. Or, if you prefer, say “bye-bye” to your menstrual cycle for several months with pills that reduce monthly cycles to only four times a year! For women who suffer from severe cycles or menstrual migraines, birth control pills can add quality days to each month. To work effectively, you must take the pill at “about the same time” every day.
Pills, Rings & things with Strings This is not your mother’s birth control! by Dr. Richard Dittrich & JoAnn Casella, CPN
I
f your current method of birth control has become more trouble than it ‘s worth, maybe it’s time to brush up on what’s available when it comes to safe, reliable, hassle-free contraception. ➜ THE PILL The birth control pill remains at the top of the list of birth control options. Pills are synthetic combinations of the two primary female hormones - estrogen and progesterone. Today, oral contraceptives can contain as little as 10 micrograms of estrogen, decreasing side effects while effectively preventing
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➜ IUD or IUC IUD stands for “Intra-Uterine Device.” IUC is short for “Intra-Uterine Contraceptive.” Both names refer to the same method of contraception. Currently, there are two different (and safe) IUDs from which to choose: the Paraguard® and the Mirena®. The Paraguard® contains no hormones and uses copper as its primary method of action. The Mirena® contains progesterone and releases it slowly into the body via the uterus. Both IUDs are inserted by your GYN health care provider. Once inserted, the Paraguard® can remain in place for 10 years; the Mirena® for 5 years. A thin string protrudes through the cervix so you can check that your IUD is in place. No matter what the family elders tell you, the IUD does not cause a monthly “abortion”. The IUD prevents pregnancy by affecting the movement of sperm, thereby preventing conception. ➜ NEXPLANON® Nexplanon® is the “newest” of all forms of birth control. A single sylastic rod about the size of a match, Nexplanon® is inserted just under the skin of the upper arm. A relatively painless procedure, the insertion takes only a few minutes in your GYN office. Nexplanon® releases a small dose of the hormone progesterone. The rod can be left in place for up to 3 years. It is removed during a GYN visit and a new rod can be immediately reinserted. ➜ DEPO-PROVERA® Depo-Provera® is an injection of the hormone progesterone. It can be given intra-muscularly in the upper arm or in
gohomephilly.com
the hip and prevents pregnancy for 12 weeks. It is a safe, effective and convenient method of birth control. ➜ NUVARING® Nuvaring® is a flexible 5-centimeter ring that you can insert into your vagina, yourself, eliminating multiple visits to the GYN office. Nuvaring® releases the hormones estrogen and progesterone (the same hormones as the birth control pill) into your system via the tissue of the vagina. It remains in the vagina for 21 days before it is removed and disposed of. After seven “ring-free” days, the next Nuvaring® is inserted for a 21-day cycle. It is left in the vagina during intercourse and is usually undetectable by either partner. ➜ EVRA PATCH® “The patch” is a square “band-aid” that measures about 1-1/2 by 1-1/2 inches. It can be worn on the outer area of the forearm, in the shoulder area of your back or “hidden” below your bikini line. The patch releases estrogen and progesterone through your skin. Place one patch per week for three weeks then go “patchless” for seven days. The patch should remain in place while bathing or swimming. In addition to selecting the contraceptive that best meets your needs, Dr. Dittrich recommends that women schedule an appointment with their GYN. Following an accurate assessment of your past medical, sexual and surgical history -- including a list of any medications you are taking -- and a thorough examination -- your healthcare provider can guide you to a contraceptive method that is right for you. Serving patients for more than 30 years, Dr. Richard Dittrich has offices conveniently located in South Philadelphia at 1313 Wolf Street; 215.465.3000 and in Voorhees, NJ; 856.435.9090. New patients are welcome.
Dr. Richard Dittrich is a member of the PRH Business Network.
PRHHEALTH
The heart of the matter
E
by Lauren Gordon photos by Hector Valentin
Dr. Pasquale Procacci, Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia
very 34 seconds, someone, somewhere in this country, has a heart attack. And every minute, someone dies from a heart diseaserelated illness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). As alarming as that sounds, it actually represents a reduction in cardiac morbidity and mortality over the last 30 years. Philadelphia cardiologist Pasquale Procacci credits an increase in education and heart-health awareness with having a positive impact on the public and heart patients, in particular, over recent years. For more than three decades, Dr. Procacci has been at the forefront of that movement. A founder of Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia, his group has grown to more than 75 physicians serving patients throughout the region. “I think what has actually happened is that, over a period of time, lifestyles have become more healthy compared to the way people lived 30 years ago,” he explained. “I think people are now paying more attention to risk factors. Newer drugs including statins, and techniques, such as angioplasty/
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“Because of the chronic nature of the disease, I see my patients often enough to help make changes in their lifestyle and manage them medically to try to give them a long-lasting and full life,”
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stents have also had an impact. Despite an increase in awareness, heart disease continues to rank as the leading cause of death in America. It is attributed to a number of factors, from heredity to poor diet and high-risk behaviors like smoking. Regularly-scheduled check-ups to control contributing factors like cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes are essential to maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, Dr. Procacci insists. “Heart disease can be very chronic,” Dr. Procacci explains. “Because of the chronic nature of the disease, I see my patients often enough to help make changes in their lifestyle and manage them medically to try to give them a longlasting and full life,” he assures. And with more than 30 years of service in the neighborhood, Dr. Procacci is a familiar face to 3+ generations of families to whom he has become a lifesaver. Pasquale Procacci discovered his passion for internal medicine while a medical student at Hahnemann Medical College. In 1976, he launched what was to become a long and successful cardiology career in South Philadelphia under the guidance of Joseph Gambescia, Chief of Medicine at St. Agnes Hospital. Eventually, Dr. Procacci invited Dr. Mark Victor to join him.
They moved their practice from a smaller office near St. Agnes Hospital to their current location at 1703 S. Broad Street, where they have been servicing the South Philadelphia community for more than 20 years. “We had a vision of keeping the practice on the crest of the wave,” Dr. Procacci says. “We have the best electronic record. We are able to consolidate costs and, in truth, we were able to do things better because we were larger. Here at the South Broad Street office, we perform nuclear imaging, and echo-cardiography and peripheral vascular imaging. It is all right here as a convenience for the patient. Dr. Procacci and his Associates at 1703 S. Broad Street have a goal of providing capable, convenient, and compassionate care to all members of the South Philadelphia Community. Thirty years of commitment is not taken lightly. The Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia is now the largest single specialty group in the eastern part of the United Sates. The practice currently expands from the far Northeast to Delaware County. “We are committed to the community and committed to its health. The backbone of my practice is South Philly.” prh
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The Cardiology Consultants of Philadelphia is a member of the PRH Business Network rowhome magazine
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 PRHbrides guide
by Joseph Volpe CEO, Cescaphe Event Group
74
Hot Fun in the
Summertime
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love summertime in Philadelphia! Besides possessing a beautiful urban landscape with serious historic assets, our city is simply gorgeous when the trees and flowers bloom and everybody heads outside to eat, drink and play. The brides and grooms we host at Cescaphe Ballroom, Tendenza, The Atrium at the Curtis Center and Vie, all seem to love getting married in Philadelphia in the summer as much as my team loves planning and executing their dream weddings at our venues. Our city is just mesmerizing this time of year. We’re often asked to use our trolleys, which usually just transport our guests from ceremonies to receptions, to swing by Independence Mall, City Hall, Fairmount Park and the neighborhoods where the families we’re joining together reside. I’m certain I could just ride along with each wedding party every weekend and enjoy the views and the personal stories that mean so much to the families we work with. Besides the beautiful landscape, the photographs from summer weddings in Philadelphia are also stunning. Whether the images are taken atop the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s infamous steps, in the middle of Broad Street or on the grass in one of our celestial parks, there’s nothing quite like a summer wedding photo in Philly. Once the temperature rises above 70 degrees, everyone loves to head outside to enjoy fresh air and the action that our city bestows. I’m very excited to announce that our newly-opened venue, Vie, has just expanded from 17,000 to 30,000 square feet with the addition of a new enclosed outdoor courtyard. The new space includes a retractable roof, which enables us to provide food and drink stations, cigar lounges and even perform ceremonies for our brides and grooms - alfresco - most of the year. After experiencing the mild winter we recently enjoyed, we might even have the opportunity to dine alfresco all year long! Speaking of alfresco entertaining, I am clearly not alone in my love of the foods of summer. Over the past decade, Cescaphe Event Group has earned a reputation for producing incredibly lavish seafood hors d’oeuvre-themed receptions. There’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh, sweet clams, oysters, shrimp, mussels, lobster, scallops and crabmeat. Whether you love these delicacies served ice cold with cocktail sauce or steaming hot with zesty marinara or drawn butter, these delicious fruits from the sea seem to transform every party we orchestrate into a culinary celebration of a lifetime. Just referencing them makes my mouth water. In addition to our bountiful seafood extravaganzas, the season also delivers incredible greens, edible flowers and vegetables bursting with flavor, which play starring roles in our summer salads and entrees. Add some traditional favorites from our treasured Italian Market, and you have one serious Philadelphia celebration. I am so proud to be from the City of Brotherly Love. From the food to the sites, the history and the people, there’s no question that this is one of the greatest cities in the world. Have an inspired summer, my friend.
Cescaphe is a member of the PRH Business Network. About Joseph Volpe, the Brides Guide. Ever keeping his eyes focused on the latest wedding trends, Cescaphe Event Group CEO/Chef Joseph Volpe is recognized as the area’s leading authority on ballroom bliss. With his innovative approach to the most important celebration of your life, his award-winning Cescaphe Ballroom, The Atrium at the Curtis Center, Tendenza and Vie, combine a captivating ambiance with exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable experience. Visit cescapheballroom.com or call 215.238.5750.
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PRHbrides guide
Tara’s World
Summer
Soirees
Enhanced
Beyond Expectation by Tara Buchanan Wedding Event Planner for EBE
style parties like this, so keep that in mind when planning the details. Island-Inspired Event: Nothing exudes Caribbean vibes like a live Calypso or Reggae ensemble. Extend that mood with exciting selections like cerviche, grilled fish, tropical fruit skewers and coconut shrimp. Complement these Island delights with Pina Coladas, Bahama Mamas and other frozen Tropical concoctions. Book a Live Custom Cigar Roller to create an interactive experience and pick party favors that fit the theme. Boardwalk-Style Barbecue Shindig: This is a classic favorite that touches on so many nostalgic features that it’s hard to go wrong, but add some small creative twists for originality. These can include providing the same timeless boardwalk foods in miniature sizes. You can book classic games/activities like Ski-Ball, Pop-A-Shot, a Caricaturist or Fortune Teller. Provide an airbrush artist or old-fashioned Photo Booth for an interactive experience that doubles as a party favor. Instead
of grilling up standard cheeseburgers, hand out cheeseburger sliders, mini-cones of cotton candy and ice cream, miniature versions of Boardwalk French fries and a real crowdpleaser, funnel cake fries. Green Picnic Gathering: Hipsters everywhere will enjoy a laidback picnic that favors local farmfresh ingredients combined with a relaxing outdoor setting. An Acoustic Ensemble playing Indie/Folk/ Rock music can set the mood for a casual, enjoyable experience. Try pouring a homemade or local-made chilled cider along with a selection of locally brewed beer-on tap, of course. You can use locally grown produce to make salads, fruit gazpachos, farmraised chicken or tofu, vegetable kabobs and cobblers. If you really want to spread the Green, distribute small potted vegetable plants to each guest for them to plant in their own garden. For more ideas, planning assistance, or to check out all that EBE has to offer, visit www.ebetalent. com today! ■
With the temperatures rising, what better way to enjoy the Summer season than sipping cocktails on a city rooftop, gazing at the gleaming river view, flanked by the picturesque Philadelphia skyline? At The Warehouse at EBE, we are thrilled to premiere our brand new rooftop deck that overlooks the Delaware River and to join the handful of venues in the city with an outdoor, water-view event space. With our first-class Entertainment, Planning, Production and Event Space, we have endless ways to enhance your Summer Soirees. Whether you’re hosting an event on our rooftop deck or in your backyard, we are the experts who specialize in creating the perfect atmosphere and the perfect event, regardless of where it takes place. Here are some quick ideas for enhancing your Summer Soiree: Chic, City-Rooftop Cocktail Party: Let our vibrant DJ and live Drummer duo engage your guests and boost the energy of the crowd. Create your own custom cocktail or two to serve along with martinis and cosmopolitans. Indulge in butler-passed hors d’oeuvres like seasonal sushi with mango or avocado, caprese lollipops, cheesesteak rolls, gourmet dessert shooters and other assorted, conveniently served items. Be sure to stick with either finger foods or items that are easily consumed (shooters, skewers, martini glass specialties) because no one wants to be stuck with a big place-setting in that atmosphere. Mingling is a fun and important part of cocktail76
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EBE Talent is a member of the PRH Business Network
818 South 9th Street Philadelphia, Pa 19147 215.928.9664 Email: reyjewelry@aol.com Large selection of Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands We also buy old Gold & Diamonds
 PRHbrides guide
Celebrating our 80th Anniversary! Soft & Hard Ice Cream Gelati Sundaes Soft Pretzels & other Treats
Open 7 Days a Week March thru September
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History of Pop’s
In the Summer of 1932, Filippo “Pop� Italiano began selling frozen treats from a pushcart in his South Philadelphia neighborhood. These treats, long popular in his native Italy were known as “Water Ice� or “Italian Ice.� Today at Pop’s, we are committed to that same kind of quality and fast, friendly service that has made us the benchmark for excellence in the Italian Water Ice business for more than 80 years.
7X Best of PhillyÂŽ Winner www.popsice.com Follow us on Twitter for promotions @Pops_Water_Ice
Summer
Fun Cruising brought to you by Liz Emory of Seasational Cruises
A
s a Cruise Specialist, I have traveled the high seas and experienced the fun of summer cruise ships. And what’s the best part? There is a cruise vacation fit for any group of people. Whether you are looking for a romantic cruise for two, a family fun experience, an individual or group cruise, a reunion, or wedding and honeymoon, I can plan it all! With a beautiful cabin, entertainment to wow you, sensational night life and dancing, dining options galore and casino royal, there is something for everyone to do! Take a break from the everyday life and enjoy a wonderful cruise vacation to relax and enjoy summertime pleasure. Here are a few cruises that I am featuring for summer fun in 2012:
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Latest Trends for Men & Kids Hot Shaves Personal Grooming Walk-Ins Welcome! 215.551.0717 Tuesday – Saturday 11 am - 8 pm Sunday – 11:30 am - 4:30 pm
Come see Rabih!
1906 E. Passyunk Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19148
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Celebrity Summit Cruises Departs from: Cape Liberty Cruise Port, N.J to Kings Wharf Bermuda 8/5/2012 to 8/12/2012 With Celebrity Cruises, you will reach the absolute pinnacle of premium cruising. This large cruiser is intimately and elegantly designed to make your stay a comfortable one. Enjoy a refined evening of Broadway style productions at the signature Celebrity Theatre or walk through the on-board art galleries. With an array of dining options, Fortune’s Casino, pools, spas, fitness centers, clubs for adults and fun clubs for children under the age of 18, everyone will find something they can enjoy! Cabin prices start at $1049 per person, double occupancy per person.
Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas Departs from: Fort Lauderdale, FL to ports of call: Nassau, Bahamas, Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas, Phillipsburg St. Maarten & returns to Fort Lauderdale, FL 8/19/2012 to 8/26/2012Â The Allure of the Seas is an amazing ship, equipped with spas and thermal suites, an extensive treatment menu, a fitness center, 4 pools, 10 whirlpools and even a Central Park to completely unwind while on board. This can also be an adult-only retreat with many dining choices and the Aqua Theater Broadway shows for an invigorating nightlife! Cabin prices start at $1269 per person plus taxes and port charges.
Worried about staying on track and managing the fun? I travel with all of my group tours to make sure it is “smooth sailing� on your special retreat! Come Sail Away with me for a summer fun vacation you’ll never forget. Book your cruise today by calling 877-327-7707 toll free, 267-252-4792 local. or email Liz@ seasationalcruises.com. Visit www.seasationalcruises.com for more details n Seasational Cruises is a Member of the PRH Business Network gohomephilly.com
PRHfashion
The Cutting Point Salon says
Love Your Curls
Your beautiful curly hair “scrunch & squeeze” the excess moisture should be treated like delicate fabric. Several steps can be followed to promote healthy, hydrated & beautiful curls. Start with the basics:
No harsh shampoo No machine drying Air dry only & never iron Shampoos with sulfate, ammonium and sodium ingredients provide no benefits to your hair. These are detergents that only create unnecessary suds and lather. When conditioning, it is not necessary to rinse completely. This will allow your curls to remain hydrated. While the hair is still wet from the shower, apply gel in an upward scrunch. Using a soft old t-shirt or a microfiber towel you then
from your hair. You then allow your hair to air dry. A blow dryer set to low or medium, with an attached diffuser, can be used. Never touch the hair when drying. When the applied gel dries, it crystallizes and sets the curl formation. Gently scrunch the hair toward the scalp to open the gel- cast curls. Do not run your fingers through the hair. “Deva Curl” is a curly hair system and line of products that we’ve been using in the salon with tremendous success. We held a “curls night out” earlier in the year and plan to hold another. We invite interested women in to apply the system to their hair and provide instruction for home use. The first of these events was a great success and we plan to make the next bigger, better and even more informative and enlightening. The Cutting Point Salon is a member of the PRH Business Network. n
Francis S. Matarazzo, DDS Anita M. Milici, DMD 2416 -18 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 215-389-3161 www.matarazzoandmilicigroup.com The South Broad Street office of Drs.’ Matarazzo and Milici have been creating healthy, beautiful, smiles for discerning patients from the Main Line to the Jersey Shore. Both doctors have dual specialty training from Penn’s elite Periodontal– Prosthesis program. Their office offers highly advanced technologies and their team is dedicated to ensuring a warm and personal experience. Services include: • Cosmetic Dentistry: Veneers; Zoom Whitening; Porcelain Restorations • Periodontics: Laser Therapy (LANAP); Gum Sculpting and Grafting • Implantology: Surgical Placement and Restorative; 3-D Radiography • Invisilign Orthodontics • Sedation / Sleep Dentistry • Botox, Dermal Fillers and PRP Enhancement Pictured: Francis S. Matarazzo and Anita M. Milici
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PRHfashion TOGETHER AGAIN
Dr. Richard Dittrich & JoAnn Casella, CNP are practicing GYNECOLOGY at 1313 Wolf St Philadelphia, PA 215.465.3000 AND Glendale Executive Campus 1000 White Horse Rd., Suite 612 Voorhees, N.J. 856.435.9090
Sexy and the
City Life’s a Beach
by Alicia DeLeo & Phyllis Palermo
It’s time for sun, sand and sexy swimsuits. Summer is a season to kick back and relax. The same goes for your wardrobe! Feminine dresses that flow, slip-on sandals and floppy hats prove that life’s a beach, ladies, so let’s dress for it!
JoAnn will also be joining Dr. Dittrich at Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center Conveniently located at 1315 Wolf Street Philadelphia, PA 215.465.9600 Just next door to our GYN office Dr. Dittrich’s MedSpa offers Wellness Programs for both women and men. Services Include: Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Laser Treatments and Cosmetic Procedures Medically Managed Weight Loss Anti-Aging Therapies Please Stop In For A Tour!
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Suit up Let’s start with the basics: your swimsuit. Whether you are planning a family vacation at the beach or a summer by the pool, you’ll need the perfect suit. Look for bright colors, polka dots, high-waisted retro bikinis or a ruffled one-shoulder one-piece. The season’s “dare-to-wear” trend is the monokini -- an almost one-piece with peek-a-boo cutouts. Or go nautical. Some red and blue stripes with whimsical anchor details will have you ready to set sail in any style suit. On a budget? Try mixing and matching old suits. Color blocking and pattern mixing are all the rage. Piece together a bright pink top from last year with this season’s yellow ruffled bottoms! Or throw a sexy sarong over last’s year’s suit for a fresh update.
Simply accessorize Less is more in our book, especially on days spent on the sand or by the pool. For a funky DIY accessory, try running with scissors right into your boyfriend’s old tee. Slant cut one shoulder, then trim it short for a sexy midriff or add some strategic slashes! Planning a boardwalk day with mom? There’s never a better time for a floppy hat. Look chic and protect your face from the sun at the same time. Wear it with a striped pleated dress or skirt.
Easy, breezy Is it the first date or a girls’ night out? Go skirt! They breathe, saving you from muggy nights. Maxis are still hot -- try a funky tribal print or a neon hue. If you can’t decide, go asymmetrical for a party in front and business in the back. Or pair a flouncy skirt with a feminine midriff top. Feeling edgy? Try sexy socks with pointed heels! The key to wearing socks with heels is choosing super thin socks (no athletic socks allowed) and mixing and matching unexpected colors. Both are summer must-haves!
Destination wedding Brides who are planning a beach wedding on an exotic Hawaiian Isle or beautiful Myrtle Beach, the theme is modern and so much fun! What about runway to aisle? The hottest dress trends include the Audrey Hepburn sweetheart neckline and a knee-length tulle skirt. For brides who prefer elegance and simplicity, try a stretch sheath column halter dress. It can be flouncy at the bottom for the perfect mermaid look. Destination weddings are the perfect excuse for two dresses! Why not change into another sensual style after the ceremony? For a cocktail party or reception, try a short cocktail dress – in all white of course -- comfy and easy to dance in! n
Happy shopping! Phyllis & Alicia
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PRHGreen
Sp ce
Go
[Green]
Down the Shore
by Kerri-Lee MAYLAND
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gohomephilly.com
T
here is nothing quite like a perfect summer day. You know the one. Where the golden sunshine streams through the venetian blinds in your office, making your cubicle suddenly feel unbearably claustrophobic. The only remedy on days like this is to escape, and for me, it’s all about going to the shore. So what are you waiting for? Close that laptop, leave those fluorescent lights behind and give your smart phone a day off (alright, maybe not that extreme). Unplug in whatever way you fancy and let’s “go green” down the shore - packed with a couple of ideas to keep things green.
PRHGreenSp ce ❱❱ DO
❱❱ BRING
...car pool. It’s a one tank trip for Philadelphians and we all know “stay-cations” do the environment good. We also know the beach is better when shared with friends, so drive together to keep it green and if one of you has a Prius? Score! And why not show your Philly pride while you soak up the sun with a Phillies/Eagles/Flyers/Sixers beach towel? I found a bunch available for less than $30 online.
...your Ipod. Unplugging doesn’t have to mean abandoning technology entirely, especially when it comes to summer mood music. Set a little “ear bud atmosphere” by downloading Summer Fiction, the band’s self-titled debut album. Philly singer-songwriter (and friend!) Bill Ricchini is behind this dreamy, nostalgic summery sound. “By the Sea” was heard this season on ABC’s beach-based hit show “Revenge” while “Kids Playing in Catalina” inspired my baby girl’s name. What will it inspire you to do?
❱❱ GO ...through the South Jersey countryside. Give the expressway a break and take the scenic route so you can stop at South Jersey Farm Stands along the way. Packing water ice can be tricky, so instead, try a farm-fresh snack (fresh blueberries packed with antioxidants, anyone?). A little nature’s candy will keep your beach bod tight and the local farmers in business so everyone wins!
preserve beach habitat, of which you are not. And no, the crab your kid caught will not make a perfect pet. Trash? You brought it, you take it. We would all hate to hear our future grandchildren say, “Is it true? There really used to be real live fish and birds at the shore?”
❱❱ FORGET …the laptop, the drama, the work, the stress, the to-do list and the fact that your boss may not be happy with you tomorrow. An unpluggedperfect-summer-green-beachescape is always worth it. ✽
❱❱ DON’T ...leave a souvenir of yourself. Perhaps you have heard the expression, “Leave only footprints, take only photos.” The shore is a vulnerable ecosystem and you, my friend, are one of its greatest enemies. Dunes protect and
Illness? Surgery? Accident? The road to recovery has a fast lane. Transitional Care, one of Genesis HealthCare’s ShortStay Rehabilitation programs, offers therapy and treatment after you leave the hospital but before you return home. Choose to travel the fast lane to recovery and be pampered along the way.
Services offered “Right in Your Backyard.” - Orthopedic Rehabilitation - Stroke Care 1526 Lombard Street | Philadelphia, PA 19146 Phone: 215-546-5960 | www.genesishcc.com
- Cardiac Rehab
rowhome magazine
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by Larry kane
PRH Writers Block
I
always get a little irritated when nationally televised football games prefer to show video and “live” coverage of Philadelphia fans, generally naked from the waist up, tattooed extensively, braving sub freezing temperatures and cheering for the Eagles. I love those fans who bring so much color and excitement to our games, but the naked truth is that the cold weather fanatics are few and far between. And then there are the TV broadcasters, like Joe Buck, who have these negative vibes about the Philadelphia sports fan, as if they really knew what this town is all about. Because they don’t, not really. I’m sure Joe is a nice guy, but he hates Philadelphia, and hardly shows any simpatico for the beauty and grace of this community. And then there’s Bernie Parent, the legendary Flyers’ goalie of the 1970’s. Bernie has been here a long time, and all that time, through triumph and turmoil, victory and defeat, the people of this region have loved him back.
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The Psyche of a
Recently Bernie and I, along with Jerry Blavat and authors Glen Macnow and George Anastasia, appeared at a Michael Smerconish Book Club event. Bernie had just been enlisted by the Phillies to explain Philadelphia fans to their young players. Kudos to the Phillies management. What a great idea. Bernie said: “I told them that everybody thinks Philadelphia fans are tough and unforgiving. I told them they can be tough, but if you work hard and don’t complain and don’t make excuses, they will like you forever. And I reminded them, you never see empty seats in the arena or the stadiums. That makes Philadelphia fans the most loyal in the nation. And I reminded them that they have special appreciation for the players and coaches who are invested in the community. So I said, ‘Don’t get upset at boo birds and fan unrest. They’ll cheer harder than anyone else when you work hard and they’ll let you have it when you make gohomephilly.com
Philly Fan excuses. Just deal with it.’” Bernie’s comments are well-received. So are the other icons of local sports. And all of them have one thing in common: a love for the community. The desire to live here after their athletic careers are over and a real appreciation of the Philadelphia area fans. Yes, it is true – in our region, you are only as good as your last show to some people, but to many, you are appreciated, over time, for that commitment. That’s why Bernie, Bob Clarke, Greg Luzinski, Gary Maddox, Bob Kelly, Larry Christiansen, Cole Hamels, Jimmy Rollins, the injured Ryan Howard, Ron Jaworski, and many others are so admired. On the flip side, Philadelphians from everywhere in our region can admire athletes in a different way. Mike Schmidt is an example. Arguably the greatest third baseman in history, Mike is a very nice guy. But while he played here, and after he left, he said some unwise things about the fans. So did Donovan
McNabb, who had a great run here, I mean a really great run. Mike and Donovan do not elicit the same affection like many other athletes do, but maybe time will heal that. So the bottom line is that our fans are the most loyal in America. They pay for tickets, they live and breathe sports, but there are three things they will never accept – slacking off, criticizing the region and being disrespectful to fans. The last part, being dignified and gracious when you meet a fan in person, is something that is very special. Unfortunately, some of our biggest sports stars of the current era are rude and, at times, crude, when they meet up with fans. I’m not going to be mean but they know who they are. Chances are they don’t work for Ed Snider, our town’s premiere sportsman, who will never tolerate it. Chances are they won’t be settling down and living here after their sports careers are over. My advice: appreciate the fans. They are the best in the world. n
PRHWRITERSBLOCK
Pat & Anna Scioli
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South Philly on a RolL by David W. Cava do a lot of listening throughout the day. If I’m not listening to my customers, I’m in the car listening to news or sports radio. I welcome others’ opinions. I find them educational and insightful – unless the topic of discussion is Philadelphia’s official sandwich. I’m all for healthy difference of opinion, but can someone tell me why the roast pork sandwich isn’t even mentioned when discussing our city’s favorite hand-held meal? Have you ever noticed where our returning RowHome Grown loved-ones venture when back in town for a visit? After finding some cannoli, they make a special stop at DiNic’s, Tony Luke’s, Chickie’s or John’s Roast Pork. And even though they could procure a great tasting hoagie or cheesesteak at any of these famous eateries, they go for the one-of-a-kind, out-of-thisworld taste of a hot roast pork sandwich. This isn’t just a sandwich, it’s South Philadelphia on a roll. The garlicky bitterness of the broccoli rabe combined with the extra sharp provolone and seasoned roast pork create the perfect trifecta of flavor. Throw some long hots into the mix and you’re calling family just to tell them you love them. Nowhere
I
in the world can you find rolls like here in Philly. And no other sandwich is better suited for the Philly roll. The inside soaks up the pork’s delicious juices while the outside of the roll stays nice and crisp. You savor each and every bite. I recognize that it’s next to impossible to stop the marketing freight train that nationally promotes the Philly cheesesteak. And who hasn’t waited anxiously in the cold after a night out with friends to order a “cheesesteak wit”? I even appreciate the sentimentality and history behind the Philly hoagie. With roots as far back as 1929, it’s a staple item on our city’s menu right next to the soft pretzel. Both the hoagie and the cheesesteak have great and varied stories behind their origins and if it’s a history lesson you’re looking for, then go where the marketing dollars take you. But if you’re looking for the best tasting sandwich in Philly, go get a roast pork sandwich. I’ve heard all I need to hear and tasted all I need to taste. Unfortunately, the official sandwich of Philadelphia will never be the roast pork sandwich, but I hear that St. Peter hands you one on your way through the pearly gates. I guess that’s recognition enough for me.. n
Vincent Gangemi Funeral Home, Inc.
James L. Guercio Funeral Director
Ann Gangemi Secretary/Treasurer
Vincent C. Gangemi, Jr. Supervisor
Serving the Community Since 1937 Vincent Gangemi Sr., Founder Vincent C. Gangemi Jr., Supervisor
2232-40 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 Funeral Pre-Planning Available Handicapped Accessible
P: 215.467.3838 F: 215.551.4247
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PRHtech
A Smartphone App that Keeps you
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by Joe Osborne photo by Heather Sizemore
| rowhome magazine
A
Cruisin’
ccording to a recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than 80 percent of teenagers have used an electronic device while driving, distracting them from what’s on the road and putting them in danger of an accident. In the age of smartphones that can do everything from send text messages to act as a GPS, distracted driving has reached epidemic levels -- so much so in Philadelphia that it’s prompted a law. But what if the same smartphones that distract so many drivers could be used to keep them safe? That’s where Nigro’s Auto Body comes in. This South Philadelphia auto repair shop has made enormous strides to protect drivers from the super computers in their pockets. It’s something even owner Dominick Nigro admits is, well, ironic. “We wanted to take a stance and really protect people. It’s kind of ironic, a body shop telling people that we don’t want you to get into an accident--but we don’t,” Nigro says. “We don’t want people getting injured. We’re all about consumers and safety.” That’s why Nigro set out to publish three different mobile apps to protect not only his own customers, but drivers around the nation. The first of which is Nigro’s Auto Body Accident Assistant, developed by Sum-
gohomephilly.com
mit Mobile Solutions Inc. Available for iPhone and Android, the free app allows users involved in an accident to report their accident to up to three emergency contacts, their insurance company and a body shop of choice with the press of a button. It can even send an accident report, complete with photos, to an insurance company and body shop. Considering those in an accident will likely need immediate assistance, the app can provide a local body shop with a small map showing their exact location as well as finding the closest shop to them, thanks to smartphones’ GPS technology. Nigro’s app can also locate and contact the nearest police department, hospital, ambulance, rental car company and towing company. “The intention of that app was to make sure people are safe and make sure they get a proper repair, too. It takes the not-knowing out of your claim,” Nigro confidently asserts. “It’s an On-Star on your phone that helps protect you.” However, Nigro wants to do more than help people in the event of an accident. He wants to stop accidents before they happen. Nigro’s Auto Body teamed up with Mobile Tattletale LLC to license two of its apps, Teenage Speedster and Mobile Tattletale, both of
which are paid apps available on iOS, Android and Blackberry. The former is simple enough: Using the smartphone’s accelerometer, Teenage Speedster can track when a driver exceeds a preset speed limit and send a text to someone, in most cases a parent, to warn them of the activity. When programmed correctly by a parent, the Mobile Tattletale app keeps drivers from sending and receiving text messages altogether while driving. Whenever a driver reaches a certain speed, using the phone’s accelerometer, his or her phone will automatically be rendered unable to send or receive text messages until the vehicle slows down to below that speed. Of course, all outgoing and incoming messages are sent and received so kids still don’t miss a beat. “We’re a small, family-owned body shop in Philadelphia that’s doing something that no other body shop in the country is doing. We’re putting things out there for people’s safety,” Nigro says. “Hopefully, it stops a ton of accidents in the city.” Nigro’s Auto Body is a member of the PRH Business Network ■ Joe Osborne is a freelance technology writer for sites such as games. com and PCMag
Run
HUNGRY YET? Hoagies Salads Wraps Specialty Sandwiches and much MORE!
Philly MI-PALS Run! T 215.271.5545 Featuring
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PRHtech
by Daniel P. Olivieri, III
he Nike+ FuelBand is the perfect companion for running along Kelly Drive or the Penn’s Landing Waterfront this summer. Sporting a dazzling array of more than 120 LED lights, the water resistant Nike+ FuelBand tracks your activity through a state-of-the-art built-in 3 axis accelerometer. This device calculates calories burned and overall steps taken while measuring your total activity in a proprietary metric called Fuel Points. Whether you’re working out, running a trail or even fidgeting at your desk, the Nike+ FuelBand will account for every ounce of activity toward your goal. The FuelBand is supported by a free iPhone application, which syncs to your customized Nike+ account via Bluetooth. From here, you can track your progress and even share your Fuel numbers with friends over Twitter and Facebook. This stylish workout accessory is definitely a conversation starter with its size and shape resembling more of a LiveStrong bracelet than a watch. Your progress is actually indicated on the band itself by a line of LED dots that move from red to yellow to green while automatically adjusting the display brightness depending on the given amount of ambient light. The battery life will last more than three or four days before needing a recharge. The device plugs into your computer via USB connection and completes a full charge in a little less than an hour. While the FuelBand won’t completely replace your workout GPS, it is extremely satisfying (and fashionable) to be able to track your daily achievements through a glowing bracelet. It’s comfortable, unobtrusive and provides a consistent benchmark for improving your workouts each day. With the cold weather behind us for good, hopefully, even geeks who are inclined to be a little more athletic this summer will marvel at the robust functionality and mobility of the Nike+ FuelBand. So stop making excuses and start treating life as a sport! Follow @nikefuel on Twitter for more information. ■
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Serving the entire Tri-State area 2300 S. 16th Street
We specialize in Pharmaceutical and Corporate Catering
Including delivery and set up
FAX: 215.271.3767
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11/4/09 4:16:46 PM
Daniel Olivieri is a systems administrator, journalist and entrepreneur currently living in Philadelphia, PA. Follow him on Twitter: www.twitter.com/hey_daniel
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PRHBUSINESS
DeFino Law Associates
The Ol’ “One-Two”
by Lauren Gordon photo by Phil Kramer
W Attorneys Michael & Vincent DeFino
e’ve all heard the old cliche. Details matter.
When it comes to hiring an attorney, the longer you wait to seek professional counsel, the greater your risk of losing critical details that can lead to justice say Attorney brothers Michael and Vincent DeFino. “It’s important that individuals seek counsel as soon as possible,” says Vincent Anthony DeFino of DeFino Law Associates, a family practice that he and Super Lawyer brother Michael have headed since 1999 “If you wait too long to ask for help, you risk losing critical time and evidence that can help prove your case.” Vincent DeFino says the biggest mistake most people make is not obtaining a lawyer immediately after an incident occurs, especially in cases involving personal injury. “I had a client who was working on an improperly-leveled worksite. He fell out of the back of the truck due to the rough terrain and sustained a life-long injury,” Vincent explains. “We immediately sent an investigator to the scene. He took photographs of the ground that 88
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showed the hills. The next day, the site was leveled.” If our client didn’t call our office right away, we wouldn’t have access to critical evidence,” Vincent continues. “It’s my job to act quickly on behalf of our clients. Details matter.” If Vincent’s role is the researcher, Michael’s is the litigator. A Super Lawyer since 2005, Michael Anthony DeFino’s portfolio includes Summa Cum Laude graduate, a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the1978 Class of Villanova University Law. “We were raised in a family where it is more important to help people than make money,” Michael says. gohomephilly.com
“I was born a lawyer. I’ve been following my father around since I was four years old. This is all I know.” Both Vincent and Anthony DeFino credit their father, former Common Pleas Judge Anthony DeFino, with their journey down the legal lane. Common Pleas Judge Rose Marie DeFino-Nastasi also followed in her father’s footsteps. For the past 30 years, the DeFino family has been practicing law in the neighborhood where they grew up -- providing clients with legal services ranging from criminal defense to personal injury. “It is a one-two punch,” Vincent gestures from behind his desk. “In this office, one brother guides you through the process -- making sure your medical bills are paid, setting up your claim properly, documenting the evidence. The other brother litigates fiercely so you get justice.” In addition to the 52+ years of
expertise that Michael and Vincent DeFino offer clients, their staff includes Managing Attorney Nicholas J. Starinieri and Nicholas L. Palazzo, Esquire. Starinieri is a 1988 graduate of Villanova University Law. Palazzo is a Cum Laude graduate from Widener University School of Law. “I think reputation is important. People buy into warehouse and succumb to advertising,” Vincent says when asked about the barrage of legal-mercials that flood the market. “About 40 or 50 times a year, we get cases that are transferred from “factories,” he adds. “Companies are looking to grab the big cases. The cases in the middle get tossed to the side.” “No matter what your case is, if you bring it here...we will make sure our clients are taken care of,” Michael DeFino assures. “It is more important to help people than make money.” n
M
Summer Slowdown: Market Advice to Aid Seasonal Business
by Antoinette Johnson, CEO of At Media
any business owners say they experience less foot traffic and a slowdown in new business during Philly’s summer months. Business owners in the region are often told that going on a month-long vacation in August is less costly than keeping their doors open. It seems that just about everyone has packed up for the Jersey shore, or they’re all invited to some pool party in the ‘burbs’ for which we business owners missed the invitation! You might be an entrepreneurial mom who’s happy to anticipate a slower summer season, but for most of us, we’re a little concerned that a mild winter will somehow bring about an even less profitable summer. In fact, these mild winter numbers show for an interesting way to think about business in the summer. Advertising Age recently reported that the mild winter amounted to declining sales of winter goods such as snow boots, snow shovels, rock salt and space heaters, but spiked in non-traditional winter items such as lightweight jackets, fake snow and outdoor running gear. Plenty of businesses were down this year because of the weather shift, but if you were flexible and identified the trend, you could easily use the market to your advantage. For example, if you’re a hardware store owner and see the winter continuing toward a mild one, simply replace your seasonal shelves with spring gear--seeds, gardening tools and such. With both product types, you’ll end up selling when the market trends change. Go a step further to be ahead of the curve by taking out a few advertisements enticing the garden lover to start early with exclusive organic seed selections.Target the audience that makes your intuitiveness pay off. ❱❱ SEASONAL MARKET FACTS (WINTER 2011-2012): Philadelphia business owners can beat the summer slowdown by learning from the mild winter’s marketing forecast. Offer products and
specials that residents can’t deny as a deal, and make them want to stick around to enjoy the specials available in their own neighborhood. Restaurants should be highlighting their fun iced drinks, like specialty flavored margaritas and smoothies or seasonal menu items with local veggies. Highlight treats that celebrate summer. If you own a retail store, give them something they can’t live without during the summer months, such as products necessary for their vacation trips and summer days including the best flip-flops in town, cute beach bags, towels with a Philly flare and anything that you predict they’ll need for a holiday retreat. A salon should be advertising its cute, colorful Snookie-like extensions and Brazilian waxes. And if all else fails, do what Duke & Winston did, a local Philly menswear line, and head to the shore with a specialty product, the Beach Tee. Flexibility is the key and the summer slowdown is something everyone can anticipate, even if we get lucky and it ends up being a summer everyone wants to spend in Philadelphia!
Hours of Operation Monday thru Thursday: 11 - 9 Friday and Saturday: 11 - 10 Sunday: 3 - 8
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❱❱ ABOUT AT MEDIA: At Media is a branding firm in Philadelphia specializing in making your presence known. Antoinette Marie Johnson is a marketing expert who offers advice and tips via her blog at www.atmediadesign.com and on Twitter @antweetnette n
Of course you do. And so do thousands of readers throughout the region and across the country. Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming back.
At Media is a member of the PRH Business Network
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215.462.9777 Info@gohomephilly.com
rowhome magazine
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NeumaNN-Goretti
PRHSCHOOLYARD
We Will Get you there!
KERRY CANDELORO’S 8TH, SPONGEBOB SQUARE-PANTS THEMED, BIRTHDAY BASH
A Selfless Celebration by Colleen Heavens
N-G Students Class of 2011 Proud recipients of more than $9.5 million in college scholarships
Save the D
ateS:
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Please join us at the ALL CLA SS Reunion at Keenan’s Irish Pub in No rth Wildwood, NJ Cost is $25 per tic ket in advance $30 at the door The 2006 Boys ’ Soccer and th e 1998 Girls’ Softball Team s will be recog nized Any questions, please contac t Neumann-Gore tti at 215.465 .8437
Saints John Neumann and maria Goretti Catholic high School 1736 South 10th Street Philadelphia, Pa 19148 215.465.8437 WWW.NeumaNNGoret tihS.orG
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gohomephilly.com
A
sk any eight-year-old to define ‘birthday’ and you’ll likely receive a description that’s punctuated by the words ‘presents’, ‘cake’ and ‘MORE PRESENTS!’. But at the ripe age of eight, one South Philly kiddo had a different definition in mind. “I wanted to do something to give back,” says now 18-year-old Kerry Candeloro, who lives with her parents in the Lower Moyamensing section of South Philadelphia. “So I decided to do something special.” And yes, while her ‘something special’ still involved plenty of birthday cake, she opted for a different spin on the ‘presents’ portion.
For her last 11 birthdays, Kerry has asked friends and family to provide donations for the poor and homeless in lieu of gifts. Each year, guests were asked to nix the trip to the toy store and bring a bag of toiletries instead to her birthday party -- like bottles of shampoo and soap. Kerry collected these essentials and passed them on to the Missionaries of Charity in Norristown, an organization she learned about from her secondgrade teacher. “I’ve been around the Sisters of Mercy for my entire grade school and high school education,” says Kerry, referencing those involved in the work of the Missionaries of Charity. “I was so inspired by that Mercy charisma, and I think that spirit was instilled in me at a young age.” Kerry’s well-spoken ease gives the impression of someone twice her age, so it’s not hard to imagine her tallying up donations and organizing bundles while attending her very own Sponge Bob Surf n’ Turf party. Each year was a different theme – Harry Potter, Broadway, and even an
indoor block party. After all, a January 21st birthday doesn’t really lend itself to the outdoors. And each year meant another large donation of toiletries to charity -- soaps, razors, shaving creams, you name it. A decade of birthday bashes and countless bags of donations later, Kerry is about to graduate from Merion Mercy Academy with plans of attending New York University in the fall. She’ll be studying Speech Pathology and Theater, combining her interest in helping others with her love for the stage. Among her many performances and live theater experiences, she most recently played the part of Maggie Jones in her school’s production of 42nd Street. Her philanthropic endeavors are also something she’ll carry into her future, as she already plans on pursuing service trips and other service opportunities while at NYU. “And service isn’t always doing some huge project,” Kerry adds. “Every random act of kindness, both large and small, is a service to someone, somewhere.” n
Pulling a “Cousin Ken”
E
veryone has that one family tradition that they do every summer. For me and my family, it is a “Cousin Ken.” When a friend’s cousin Ken came to the shore for a visit, he wanted to experience all the shore had to offer in one day! Ever since, every summer I would wait for my mom to say we were pulling a “Cousin Ken.” There are three basic rules to this ritual: not going home, changing in the car and staying out late.
Student Writers Block by Marialena Rago
I was in the sixth grade the first time I experienced a “Cousin Ken.” A group of family friends decided to go to the water park in Ocean City, but the kids also wanted to go on the rides on the boardwalk. Taking us to Margate just to come back was not worth the trouble. So we took a cue from Cousin Ken. The next morning, we loaded our car with all of our clothes and beach necessities. I was so excited to go on all of the water rides. As soon as we got to the parking lot, I hopped out of the car and ran to wait in line. When we finally did get
in, the kids handed their stuff to the mothers and headed for the rides. As the kids went on the slides, the parents stayed by the pool and talked. It was a win-win for everyone! When our day passes to the water park expired, we headed to the car to change for the boardwalk. The girls got changed first, then the boys would follow. As we got changed, the mother on duty held up beach towels blocking the view of any bystanders, joking about what the kids’ fathers would say if they could see what they were doing.
All dressed and ready, we headed for the Boards. Before any games or rides, we had to go to Mack and Manco’s for their famous pizza. For dessert, we would get funnel cake, Kohrs ice cream, cotton candy, Johnson’s popcorn and salt & vinegar french fries. After that, is was all rides until we were too tired to even walk back to the car. But the fun didn’t stop there. The adults always had to go back to a family friend’s house for cocktails while the kids would sleep in the living room. That night was the beginning of one of my favorite traditions. Even now as I get older, I still wait for my mom to tell us that we are doing a “Cousin Ken.” I hope to one day live out the tradition with my own family and create new memories. After all, a Cousin Ken embodies all of the major aspects of the shore: fun, food and friends. n
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215.463.9666 g 215.463.4975 Fax rowhome magazine
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PRH SCHOOLYARD
RowHome Remembers
The South Philadelphia Business Association (SPBA) presents its annual “Person of the Year” Gala Please join us in honoring Ray Pescatore, CEO of C.A.T.C.H. Event Details: October 12, 2012 Galdo’s Caterers 20th and MOYAMENSING Ave. Cocktails: 6:30 pm Dinner, Dancing, Award Presentation: 7:30 pm Tickets: $80 per ticket ($750 for a table of 10) Contact SPBA @ 215-868-5502 Or spba1897@gmail.com for tickets and Ad Program information
All proceeds directly benefit the SPBA Scholarship Fund
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gohomephilly.com
Boardwalk Memories
“F
by Tony Santini
rom the park, you’ll hear the happy sounds of the carousel. Mm-mm… you can almost taste the hot dogs and French fries they sell!” You probably recognize these lyrics as the second verse of the Drifters’ hit, “Under the Boardwalk.” Now let’s see if you recall some of your favorite memories from “Up on the Boardwalks” of Wildwood, Atlantic City and Ocean City and the places, rides and fun-food spots— whether long-gone or still thriving—that you will always cherish. ❱❱ Wildwood For many, their first thrill ride was the Hell Hole in Wildwood. This early version of the modern Graviton ride placed riders in a circular room where centrifugal force kept you pinned to the wall as the floor dropped beneath you and strobe lights flashed. Add this to a walk through the original Haunted Mansion, a boat ride through Dracula’s Castle and then “hanging out” at the Himalaya Ride listening to the music of the day and meeting up with friends. Your night on the Wildwood Boardwalk wasn’t complete without a slice of Mack’s Pizza. ❱❱ Atlantic City If Atlantic City was your Boardwalk of choice, a full day on the beach probably included an ice cream bar from the Fudgie Wudgie man, then getting “dressed up” for your night on the boardwalk. You walked past the old boarding houses and then hit the Steel Pier or watched the Diving Horse show. You may have played the wheel games where you actually had a chance to win a decent prize without going broke. Maybe you spent some time at Wolfie’s Arcade or strolled through the Woolworth’s Store before passing through Steeplechase Pier, Central Pier and then the Million Dollar Pier where you grabbed something to eat at the Italian Village. On special
nights when you entertained visiting relatives, you went to Tussauds Wax Museum, then said hello to Mr. Peanut at the Planters Peanut Factory before picking up a souvenir from Irene’s and some Steele’s Fudge for the ride home. ❱❱ Ocean City The Ocean City Boardwalk was always the “family-oriented” boardwalk. Seven ride tickets for a dollar seemed to be the going rate no matter if you were at Wonderland, Gillian’s or Playland. Your folks made you sit through free concerts at the Music Pier before having a slice of Mack & Manco’s pizza for dinner and then a treat from Johnson’s Ice Cream and Candy where you could get a square ice cream cone. The OC Boardwalk always seemed to embrace whatever the latest summer fad was and, over the years, there have been many. Remember the invisible dogs (a dog leash with a hardwire empty harness at the end)? How about glow sticks and glow necklaces; Clackers (two glass balls on separate strings that “clacked” together with a certain movement of your wrist); novelty shirts like “I’m With Stupid.” Whichever Boardwalk you favored as a kid, a discussion among friends and family about memories from back in the day can last for hours. n
A Century of Faith, Family & Tradition
St. Nicholas of Tolentine marks its 100th year photos by Mike Moffa
Approximately 640 guests (more than double the number anticipated!) celebrated the 100th Anniversary of St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church at Vie Ballroom presented by Cescaphe Event Group on April 29th. Aptly titled A Century of Faith, Family & Tradition, the gala featured an endless array of Hors d’ oeuvres, 4-course dinner, music by Peter Spina & The City Rhythm Orchestra and an ongoing lineup of exciting entertainment. Special guests included Nick Desiderio, the Vivace Folk Dancers, Marc Antonelli, Joe Piscopo, the Quaker City String Band, 2nd Chance and The Kraft Strings. Fr. Nicholas Martorano, O.S.A., pastor for more than 30 years (and a lifelong parishioner), said he was overwhelmed by the generosity of the hundreds of families, parishioners and guests who contributed to the success of the Church’s Centennial Celebration. He was especially grateful to the Centennial Committee, headed by Chairman Peter Spina, and numerous Sponsors. To reserve a copy of St. Nicholas’ Centennial Commemorative Book or DVD, contact the Church at 215.463.1326 or visit www. stnicksphila.com
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aints John Neumann and Maria Goretti (SNG) Catholic High School always has strived to be on the brink of academic and technological advancements. Faced with the pitfalls of closing Catholic schools in the Philadelphia area, the Neumann-Goretti administration says it is nothing but determined to succeed in increasing enrollment and achieving key academic milestones by bringing the most technologically advanced methods of learning to all SNG students.
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by Danielle Rosati photos by Hector Valentin
Most recently, SNG installed the Wii Fitness Lab to bring students up to speed when it comes to staying in shape. In addition, its brand new biology and chemistry labs have increased students’ interests and overall grades in the classroom. Each lab has flat screen monitors to show specimens and other scientific examinations in a clearer way, giving students a better perspective and understanding about what they are learning. With the Apple iPad being the latest and most popular gadget on the technology market, Neumann-Goretti naturally became the home to a brand new iPad lab for its students. “Our school needed the amenities to compete with other schools. We are the only and first school in the city to have an iPad lab and Wii Fitness lab,” SNG President John Murawski explains. All classes have access to the iPad lab for academic related use and research though the science and art classes use the iPads in a far more extensive way. In biology classes, students can use the iPad to digitally dissect frogs and other animals without the mess of an actual dissection. “Our students still dissect actual frogs in the biology lab, but the iPads give them the opportunity to learn about the dissection of other animals as well,” Murawski clarified. SNG students enrolled in art classes utilize the iPads through extensive research of many different
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forms and exploration of art work. Technological strides are not the only efforts Neumann-Goretti is making. The high school has partnered with Community College of Philadelphia to enable students to take college level courses related to the medical field to guarantee students a jump-start in the pursuit of a health-related education and career. Currently, the enrollment at Neumann-Goretti stands at 688 students for the 2011-2012 academic year. As many know, a Catholic education comes at a price, but NeumannGoretti works with families to the best of its ability in order to achieve a flexible financial aid package, Murawski says. The Faith and Future Foundation has offered the first 55 SNG registrants a $1000 scholarship. Continuing Catholic education is the main goal of the Faith and Future Foundation, along with making it affordable for struggling families. To supplement these efforts to provide students with a Catholic education, the school’s Alumni raised $20 million to help students and families. Achieving success and providing students with a quality education is Neumann-Goretti’s main priority, Murawski says. The efforts that have been created to make it a better place are in full effect. SNG students gain academic abilities that will guide them toward a promising future. n
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WILL SMITH
PHONE HOME! by Dorette Rota Jackson
e’re not in the car for 30 seconds before someone starts complaining about something. It’s my sister Dawn’s turn tonight. She kicks off her heels and throws her feet up on the dashboard of my car. ‘Look at this,’ she whines. ‘I think I’m having an allergic reaction.’ She points to clusters of bumpy red rashes that cover both legs. ‘Oh My God!’ our mother gasps from the back seat. ‘She has to go to an emergency room! Did you eat shell fish?’ ‘What did you use to shave your legs, a hatchet?’ I ask. Dawn shoots me a dirty look. ‘I used conditioner. They say it’s as good as shaving cream if you’re ever in a pinch.’ My mother thinks I should be more concerned about my sister’s legs. She’s been diagnosing diseases since Marcus Welby, MD. ‘It could be Lime disease’, she mumbles under her breath. ‘It’s razor burn. Classic case. She’s an idiot,’ I repeat. ‘Why doesn’t anyone ever take my problems seriously?’, the middle child moans. Her lumpy legs still resting on my dashboard. Groundhog Day. Same incessant nagging. Different topics. A promo for Will Smith’s new MIB 3 movie comes on the radio. ‘This is the year Will Smith calls us.’ Dawn announces. ‘I am mentally attracting him to us. Manifesting. You know - believe and you will receive.’ She piques my interest. ‘I’m in’, I say. ‘I believe in the power of positive attraction.’ My mother interrupts our zen moment. Why would Will Smith call you? She sounds sarcastic. ‘Because he’s West Philadelphia born and raised,’ Dawn starts singing. ‘...you’re moving with your auntie and your uncle in Bel Air...’ ‘We are his neighbors. His buddies. His RowHome Grown comrades. And we want to give him a Blue Sapphire Award at our November event,’ Dawn’s still talking. ‘That woman Gilda called again,’ my mother digresses. ‘She wants us to write a story about her Uncle Ben. He’s been playing the accordion for the senior center for 50 years.’ ‘Please ma, with Gilda’s uncle. We’re trying to get to Will Smith and you want to talk 96
By Dorette Rota Jackson
| rowhome magazine
about the accordion player.’ Dawn is obviously annoyed. ‘His story is worth being told, too. He’s a nice old man who makes people happy.’ Guilt trips. A mother’s vengeance. ‘Will Smith will hear our list of previous winners and know he’s in good company. Dawn counts down some of our Blue Sapphire alums. Individuals who have left their mark on our great City for future generations to enjoy. In the Entertainment Category, we’ve presented awards to Jerry Blavat, Bunny Sigler, Charlie Gracie, Sid Mark. Will Smith is nominated every year. We’re trying to track him down to let him know. ‘He’s been in Philly a lot. Everywhere I look, I see his face. With Sharon Pinkenson and M. Knight Shyamalan.’ Dawn is still manifesting as she gets out of my car. I pull away before my mother gives me the accordion player’s phone number. I’m not in the house five minutes when my cell phone beeps. It’s Dawn. I’m in no mood to talk about her phlebitis - Marcus Welby’s latest diagnosis of the razor burns. PICK UP THE PHONE!!! she texts in CAPITAL LETTERS. Someone surely died. I am forced to return her call. ‘Put the Sixers Game on. Will Smith is here. At the Wells Fargo Center. Only blocks away from our homes. It’s a sign. We have to go there now. I manifested him right to us.’ She sounds out of breath. ‘Well, you better manifest another ride ‘cause I am not driving anywhere tonight.’ She ignores me and continues to rant. ‘Harry’s at the game but he’s embarrassed to hand Will a note to call us. He said there are too many bodyguards around him. Says he’ll never get anywhere near him.’ She told me she called our friend Harry a ‘kitty-kat’ (not the actual word she used). ‘I would have done it for him if the shoe was on the other foot.’ No note. No ride to the Sixers Game. But hope abounds. We are convinced that someone reading this right now knows Will Smith. And you are going to show him this note from his friends at RowHome. And Will is going to call Dawn. It’s the power of positive attraction. Now, altogether. Everyone repeat after me: Will Smith. Phone Home! n
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Actor Will Smith lights up the stage as he hosted the 2011 Walmart Shareholders Meeting.
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