An Affair to Remember Join us on the Red Carpet
Home of the Brave Springsteen & the Spectrum April | may | june 2010 vol 8_issue 18_2010 gohomephilly.com $4.99 US
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VOLUMe _8 IssUe 18_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
InsIdethis issue 14_LIFe
14_Vince Papale: The Game of Life by Maria Merlino photo by Phil Kramer 18_One Family. Three Wars. A salute to our Veterans 20_Like Father. Like Son. by Brian Hickey photos by Hector Valentin 22_Top Cop. Top Dog By Jessica Lista
26_ROWHOMe sPOTLIGHT
april/may/June 2010
54_FILM
54_east Coast: A Site for Tour eyes by sharon Pinkenson 56_West Coast: Oscar-Mania by Leo Rossi
66_GReen sPACe
Is your child left inside? by Kerri-Lee Halkett photos by Phil Kramer
80_HeALTH
Real People. Real Stories A Perfect Match by Larry Gallone photo by Hector Valentin
22 LIFe
A Major Undertaking photos by Paul Loftland
44_ReAL esTATe Leader of the Pack by Maria Merlino
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84_sPORTs
CYO Coaches Score High Points by Tony santini photo by Hector Valentin
GReen SPACe
48_BUsIness
An Affair to Remember Red Carpet. Black Tie. Blue Sapphires. photos by Phil Kramer, John McMullen & Rebecca savedow
18
VeTeRAnS
52_THe MenU
Finger Lickin’ Ribs by Leah Curran photos by Phil Kramer
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SPOTLIGHT
84
neWS & SPORTS
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VOLUMe _8 IssUe 18_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
ReGULARs
april/may/June 2010
6_FROM THe PUBLIsHeRs dorette & dawn head to the Penrose diner
10_MAILBOx I’m coming home
12_neIGHBORHOOd nOIR Vic damone & Johnnie Ray
24_HAnGIn’ OUT
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Go Phillies!
On THe CORneR
60_THe BRIdes GUIde Put Jellyroll on the menu
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63_On THe CORneR WITH MARK CAsAsAnTO
THe BRIDeS GUIDe
Memories of the spectrum & springsteen
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74_WRITeRs BLOCK Father’s day by Keith Gilman Local cop pens a crime thriller
92_THe sCHOOLyARd neighborhood Program promises big payoffs
96_PRessed
FROM THe PUBLISHeRS
Ghostwriter by dorette Rota Jackson
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THe SCHOOLYARD
On THe COVeR salute serVice HOMe OF THe BRAVe FRAnk VInCenT DOnATUCCI TO
1920 – 1983 Truck driver, Us Army, Btry A, 305th Field Artillery Bn, 77th division (1942-1945). Awarded Good Conduct Medal; Philippines Liberation Ribbon with 1 Bronze star; American Thr service Medal; As-Pac Thr service Medal with 3 Bronze stars; WWII Victory Medal. Married 40 years to the late Rose Gugliotta and raised three children – Frank, donna & Joseph
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SALUTe TO SeRVICe
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.
VoLUmE _8 issUE 18_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
fromthe publishers
NapkiNs anyone? Dorette & Dawn with Penrose owners Pete Dovas and son Bill Dovas enjoy one of the most popular specials on this mouthwatering menu – finger lickin’ good ribs! Slow-cooked all day long for the utmost melt-in-your-mouth flavor, this secret recipe favorite is a crowd pleaser. A neighborhood landmark for more than 60 years, Penrose was voted “Best Diner” by South Philadelphians an impressive four years in a row. Penrose Diner is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine Business Network.
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Penrose Diner
20th & Penrose Avenue 215.465.1097 photo by Phil Kramer
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President / Publisher Dorette Rota Jackson
Vice President / Publisher Dawn Rhoades
Editor Dorette Rota Jackson
From ingredients to atmosphere.
Vice President Marketing & Promotions Dawn Rhoades
Creative Director / production Omar Rubio
Contributors Donato Angelotti David Cava Alicia DeLeo Larry Gallone Brian Hickey Brett Jackson Larry McMullen Maria Merlino
Michael Rhoades Jade Rota Bob Russo Tony Santini Mark Casasanto Lauren Gordon Bob Wagner
Green space Editor Kerri-Lee Halkett
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Michelle Torres
THE BRIDES GUIDE Joseph Volpe
ITALIAN SPECIALTIES ■ GOURMET PIZZAS
Marketing Communications Coordinator Carol Vassallo
Photographers Phil Kramer John McMullen Hector Valentin Paul Loftland
Account Manager
Real Italian... with a twist
Theresa Palestino
Distribution Manager Mike Rhoades
141 N. Dorset Ave., Ventnor 609.822.1067 • Reservations Accepted • Dinner: Tue.– Sun. 4pm - Closing • Breakfast: Sat.–Sun. 7am - 1pm • Closed on Monday Beginning May 28th: • Dinner: Mon - Sun. 4pm - Closing • Breakfast: Fri. - Sun. 7am - 1pm
www.redroomcafeattheshore.com
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Lauren Gordon
Published by:
Hours
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INTERN PROGRAM COORDINATOR
gohomephilly.com
Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.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. 2009 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.
THEmaiLBoX email your letters to: info@goHomePHilly.com
Hi Dorette & Dawn:
I followed the recipe for roast prime rib of beef with horseradish crust from Lombardi’s Prime Meats (Triple Crown, Issue 17/2010) that appeared in your last issue. It was the most delicious roast I’ve ever tasted. Even my in-laws were impressed! My friend works in South Philly and was kind enough to pick up the roast from Lombardi’s for me (I wanted all the ingredients to be authentic!). Needless to say, we will be going back to that butcher in the future. Keep those recipes coming! I wish your magazine came out every month. We love it! Doris Reed, Somerdale, NJ
Dear PrH:
I have never seen a home as beautiful as the one in your last issue (Drops of Juniper/2010).
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It looks like heaven on earth. All the best to the Riverso family for living their dream. R. Mehta Baltimore, MD You girls are the pulse of South Philadelphia. Keep doing what you do. The Geator (Jerry Blavat)
Tasker or Morris. They made the finest Birthday/Wedding Rum cakes in South Philly. Also, are back editions available for purchase? And it was “GRAVY”, never sauce. Keep up the great work D&D. We’ll all come back home eventually. Dennis D’Leon St. Nicholos of Tolentine/ Bishop Neumann
Dorette & Dawn:
Hi Dawn anD Dorette,
Dorette & Dawn:
Well, I am coming home. Grew up at 8th & Mountain and have to come back to South Philly for the food. Back before air conditioning, you could walk down the street and smell the various aromas of people cooking. Some people had stoves in their basement. Does anyone know what happened to Ciminera’s Bakery located I think on 15th/16th corner of
gohomephilly.com
I was just home in Philly over the holidays, (I’m living in AZ for now) and I met Carmen through a long time friend in South Philly. He had your shirt on and we started talking about the magazine. I lived in Philly for 50 years and I can’t wait to come back for good. It is so cool that South Philly has a magazine. I really miss Philly. I am an Academic Advisor at
voL8/10
ASU and I have quite a few students from Philly. We talk forever about how great Philly is. I can’t wait to see your magazine. Good luck with it! Carol Comito
Hi Dorette & Dawn:
Both my parents and I received our magazines this week. Thank you so much for giving my Dad a shout out! BTW, our Toys for Tots benefit collected over 860 toys which surpassed our previous high total from last year that was 700. Every year the event continues to grow and for that I am very grateful as the kids win and it is a fun holiday party for all who attend. Thanks again for all your help. Karen Rodgers Event Planner / Volunteer Toys for Tots of Philadelphia www.toys4totscitysisters.com
d rie an y. Ma ra, a d h t Chia st bir ras’ 1 nthony Di iChia A D za. d z y n o c a r Nan Car ncy 1943. Rocco, Na e,Victoria fr Joey ie Cia Minn
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Winter of 1978 . William Cacc avo, formerly of 82 8 Wilder St., in front of the Spectru m (middle) an d Veterans Stadium (fa r left). Class of 1977 South Philade lphia High Sc hool
1969. 7th
& Federal . Jackie, C indy, David & G ina Olcese.
sallo (Cookie) Vas 1942. Carol t of Jerome A.C. Pool on in fr (Angerome) , 831 Fitzwater St. Room
in Center 1953. The Latin Casino ) City. Loretta (Scalpato y. Ra e nni Joh and DeQuinque
& Uncle unt Marie lfaros at A ca S e. & u s bec Retallick of July bar 1969. The annual 4th Carmen’s
12 | rowhome magazine www.gohomephilly.com
tnut ny, 1400 Ches phone Compa ing. Widener Build
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100-years-old Ca mpanoro Family formerly of 1525 Mary Carmella Ca S. Carlisle St. Paren mpanoro, Rocco ts Campanoro, Vinc (baby), Anne Russe ent (Jim) , Albert ll, Sue. (2nd row) Josephine, Nick, Rocco, Dan.
St.,
1933. Wildwood NJ. Josephine (Jay) Olivo Campanoro.
Summer of 1940. Nancy Olivo Virgilio and Josephine (Jay) Olivo Campanoro.
1978, V ic Dam brothe one wit rs at V h frie assallo ’s Resta nd Mario V ass urant o n Fran allo and kford A venue.
on iChiara lk. vonne D 1953. Y eights Boardwa H e id s a Se
the co-Impo at anny DeMar F hia. & lp es de bl la hi ub Joey B Hotel in P Harry Finn, en Franklin B e th at r Affai Leboneesa
1949. Atlantic City. Louis & Rose Nardine.
1940. Th
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rowhome magazine | 13
P   RHLIFE
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Vince Papale
gets into the game of life
by Maria Merlino photo by Phil Kramer
Indomitable patriot Vince
Papale, our local Haliaeetus rara, has a few choice words directed toward a certain NFL player who talks second chances but who lacks the vision to see the full potential of his public speaking. Sitting in Popi’s Restaurant sipping a cappuccino, the immaculately groomed Papale looks me dead in the eye and begins to tell me how he invests his time and spirit into society. “Let me start with The Wounded Warriors,” he begins. “They never broke the law and they have a great need for second chances, too. I met them in Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Virginia and the USO, where we do fundraisers. These injured men and women come in all sizes, shapes, sexes, races and creeds. They are my heroes.” Using football lingo, he puts it into perspective. “Our soldiers are free agents, undrafted, with no signing bonus, just a strong belief to protect the dream of home and country. Their uniforms are proudly worn without the addition of corporate logos. They don’t second-guess their coaches and simply execute the play that they are asked to run. I call them Team USA, the most powerful team on earth!”
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I could feel his emotional vibration rising as he continued. “They will tug at your heartstrings like no other.” Arriving at the hospital, he envisioned an inspirational session where “I could try to boost their mental level,” but the tables got turned and he was blown away by the courage and attitude he witnessed. “What I saw was the trauma of lost dreams and lost teammates, missing body parts and missing memories. But it wasn’t about what they didn’t have. It was about what could never be taken away, an unbeatable attitude.” I mention his movie Invincible. “They knew the movie well. I was touched and honored when so many relayed to me that they used my story to help bolster their positive mindset.” Papale is inamorato with family life, in love with his spouse Janet and devoted to their two children, Gabriella, 16, and Vinnie Jr., 13. “My greatest achievement was to become a parent. And I have to admit that the utmost reward about the movie is that I have a more flexible schedule to be with them. We believe in the USA. We go together to the air force bases and greet the soldiers after the debriefing. It’s a big surprise for them to see my family in matching shirts, meeting and greeting. There’s never a dull moment in the Papale Household. It’s all fun and it’s all good.” Rounding out that paternal instinct, he also raises money for Community Treatment Solutions (CTS), a children’s outreach program for child victims and orphans. Still a team player, Papale joined forces with his wife to run their enterprise, Papale Promotions, now booking internationally. At ease with public speaking, Papale relates to a wide swath, from kids to Kiwanis to Fortune 500 companies. His theme encourages people
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
P RHLIFE
to explore the potential within. He encourages all to get in the game of life. With his very visual presentation of movie clips, slide show and powerpoint effects, his message of the ‘3 As’—Analyze, Adapt, Achieve—are the tools to success. “My wife Janet is amazing. She’s a wonderful mother to our children. She’s with Long and Foster Realty and can sell on both sides of the river. As a former USA gymnast, she used her skills to become head coach at the University of Pennsylvania with Chuck Daly. I also cherish that her concern for my health gave me a second chance at a well body, by encouraging me to get a colonoscopy. It was a slap back to reality.” His health was given a clean bill. ”They found no polyps during my last procedure but they did find my father’s shoe!” he wisecracks. As we come to the end of our time, Papale acknowledges the economic downturn and how worrisome it can be. “If you need a boost and inspiration, pick up the phone and ask for me. You, too, can be invincible in hard times.” ✽ Vince Papale PO Box 1635 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Whoozenuts@comcast.net Office: 856-751-5683
www.vincepapale.com Maria Merlino lives in and writes about South Philadelphia.
2010
TO SERVICE SALUTE Anvil IRON WORKS INC 1022-28 Washington Ave Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.468.8300
1265 Little Mill Road Erial, NJ 08081 856.783.5959 www.Anviliron.net
Banjo
BoB I
by elise Bowder photos by hector Valentin
f the sun is shining in philadelphia, chances are you won’t find 71-year-old robert pfenninger sitting around the house. Instead, this marine vet probably could be spotted sitting at the corner of 7th & oregon with his banjo in hand. “What am I going to do? I can’t sit at home,” pfenninger says. Shortly after coming to philadelphia in the early ‘90s, he bought a banjo and hit the streets, eventually earning the nickname “banjo bob.” over the past three years, the former sergeant has been delighting South philly locals along oregon avenue with his bluegrass tunes. For pfenninger, his street performing is a way of staying active while giving back to the community. and his presence surely doesn’t go unappreciated. cars toot their horns and drivers wave as they pass pfenninger plucking away. He is unmistakable in his red U.S. marine corps cap seated next to a sign that reads “banjo bob: retired and rewired.” a firefighter stops to say a friendly hello and a car full of rowdy teenagers yell “banjo bob” out the window. “I don’t toot my own horn but I’m wellrespected around here,” he says. (continued on page 91 )
1022-26 Washington Ave Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.468.8300
1285 Little Mill Road Erial, NJ 08081 856.783.5959
WWW.ANVILIRON.NET rowhome magazine
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PRHLiFe
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etallick, a
donald r
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army etallick III, George r nlisted 1971 e
William “bill” retallick, marin es
paul re tallick o nd carrier Kearsar eck of the ge, nav y
Salute to Service One Family. Three Wars.
John retallick, army, 1943, France
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nt US army Staff Sergea regorio G rocco J. de a, 1950 ri st u a z in Sr., l -1960) 4 4 9 1 d e rv (se
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cpl USmc rocco J. deGregorio Jr.
gohomephilly.com
Geroge “dick” retallick served in WWI with the famous manchu division. He was awarded the purple Heart and the French croix de Guerre. Seven of eight sons of dick and Florence retallick served their country in uniform – five were in combat. John retallick, Kenneth retallick and George retallick served overseas in WWII. donald, paul & bill retallick proudly served during the Korean War.
go master Sgt. dominic ra July 6, 1945 (czechoslovakia WWII),
Kenneth re ta
llick, army
P H I L A D E L P H I A
Charter
School
Celebrating a Decade of Academic and Artist Excellence NOW ACCEPTING K-8 APPLICATIONS FOR OUR PROPOSED MAJOR EXPANSION
The only Philadelphia charter renewed in 2009 unconditionally. “Philadelphia Performing Arts is a wonderful school – warm, inviting, a place that children want to be. It is also a high-performing academic program, the kind of school the city of Philadelphia needs more of.” BEN RAYER The School District of Philadelphia Chief Charter, Partnership and New Schools Officer
PPACS, 2600 South Broad Street, Philadelphia 215-551-4000 For information and application go to www.ppacs.net
2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
P RHLIFE
Like Father Like Son by Brian Hickey photos by Hector Valentin photos courtesy of Daytona Beach Police Department
W
hen it comes to the Philadelphia Police Department’s family tree, the name Frank Rizzo plays a paternal role. But few monikers have as much public-recognition cache as Mike Chitwood – either Junior or Senior. That’s just what results from a father and a son bringing decades of tireless law enforcement, not caring what the criminals they’re pursuing, or the rivals they’re surpassing, have to say about it. In Senior, you have the detective who, methodically working his way up the ranks and earning a “Dirty Harry” nickname, pulled a trunk from Ira Einhorn’s closet in Powelton Village containing the body of Holly Maddux. Little did he know then that the gruesome discovery would launch a more-than-twodecades tale of international cat-and-mouse that, without dedication, would have left the Maddux murder unpunished. In Junior, you have the detective who, also happening upon high-profile cases, brought charges when height-ofhis-career Allen Iverson allegedly went out on the town with a gun to deal with some personal issues involving “pompom pants.” Though Iverson did what Einhorn wanted to do – beat the rap’s weighty charges – Junior got some “go ahead, make my day” points for doing not what he thought would be easy, but by doing what he thought was right. While they’re both now gone from the PPD’s commandhierarchy chart, their contributions to Philadelphia as a whole 20
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Michael Jr. with parents Michael and Elizabeth Chitwood ▲
“One of the things that amazes me when I’m out there with officers is that we’re arresting the grandchildren of people I arrested 45 years ago."
deserve acknowledgement, a salute to the kind of service in which any day can be their last. Ironically, the duo’s story goes back to where you’d sociologically expect: When younger, Junior vowed and swore never to end up like Senior. What happened? Oh, he eventually became a carbon copy and their relationship blossomed into one of both support and, to this day, competition to be the best chief in their personal family tree. But before we get to that, let’s start at the beginning, in April 1964 when Michael Chitwood Sr. joined the Philly PD. Growing up near 7th & Oregon, he’s an educational product of Epiphany, Stella Maris and Bishop Neumann High who married a “South Philly girl” and lived at 24th & Clarion for two decades. He worked his way up through the 22nd District, Highway Patrol, Investigations, Narcotics, West
PRHLIFE Detectives and Homicide. Says that if there’s a job in the PPD, chances are, he worked it. Not a crime of which he hasn’t seen the aftermath. “I remember being on safety patrol as a seventh grader, and seeing the officers out on the beat. He’d tell stories about what he did. I saw what he did as helping people,” Chitwood Sr. recalls. “In seventh grade, I knew what I wanted to do with my life.” Though he had a passion for serving his hometown – the in-laws still live in South Philly – following his dreams of advancement, he was named chief of Middletown Twp., Bucks County, from 1983 to 1987. From there, it was off to Portland, Maine, where he’d serve as chief for 17 years before returning to the area and taking the Upper Darby helm in 2005. (“Leaving Philadelphia was about career opportunity,” he says.”) Now, he’s into his 46th year with a badge and a gun, an impressive run that becomes downright stunning when you consider many officers count the days till their 25th year of service renders them retirement-eligible. “There’ve been a lot of ups and a lot of downs. And, I’ve done everything you can possibly do while walking a beat. But I absolutely love my job,” he says. “Even today, I like to say that I don’t know it all. I’ve been lucky enough to surround myself with smart and driven to do a good job.” After taking a break in the interview so Chitwood Sr. can address yet-another group of students touring the Upper Darby station – the commissioner says the city is “an extension of West Philadelphia, the 19th District.” – he explains that one of the keys to effective law enforcement is communication with the public, either directly or via the media. (To be sure, neither Chitwood is shy about talking to reporters, sometimes to the dismay of media-averse peers.) In his current job, that means conducting high-profile narcotics stings because, when he arrived, “the residents’ quality-of-life was being destroyed.” Hinging a lot of that on the open-air heroin, crack and more trade, his press conferences are a common draw for the local media. He produces an Upper Darby “War on Drugs” pamphlet that says Chitwood et al want to “send the message to drug dealers that they may not sell drugs in Upper Darby and, if they do, they would face certain consequences.” When those consequences reach the dealers, the cameras closely follow the SWAT teams. “We started this war on drugs to give the community back to the people. And saying ‘No comment’ means you did something wrong.” Civil libertarians may not like the fact that Chitwood boasts that they made arrests for “even one pill or one joint,” but Chitwood has always been upfront about his intentions. “Drugs trickle down to all other areas,” he avers. “People cry that we can’t build more prisons. Well, why can’t we? “One of the things that amazes me when I’m out there with officers is that we’re arresting the grandchildren of people I arrested 45 years ago. These kids don’t have a chance. Treat people the way you want you and your family to be treated: If you live by that, you’ll be successful.” To hear Senior tell it, Junior didn’t get any career coaching from the old man. To hear Junior tell it, while growing up in South Philly, he’d have just laughed it off anyway. Being a cop wasn’t in the cards, or so Mike Jr. thought. He was a gym rat on more of a coaching/teacher route, though he admits there might have been signs of career paths to come. “As a kid, my father was my hero. I’d play with the cuffs, the gun, read the reports on his desk,” says Junior on the phone from Daytona Beach, Florida, where he’s been police chief since 2006. “But in high school, my father just was not cool anymore.” (continued on page 59 )
There are two certainties in life. Only one comes with options.
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
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
Top Cop Top Dog
I
by Jessica Lista
t was a typical middle-of-the-night in Atlantic City. At 3:30 in the morning, people were dressed to the nines on the boardwalk where neon lights from this shore town’s swanky clubs and glitzy casinos compete for visitors’ attention. That night in 2005 may have felt like any other party night but little did those people on the boardwalk know that a Czech Shepherd named Deuce was about to save their lives. Officer William J. Logan of the Atlantic City Police Department wanted to be a K-9 handler for years and in 1999, he got his chance. K-9 trainer Michael Knights and Logan located Deuce from a vendor in Maryland and on Christmas Eve, they decided to drive up to get him. That day marked the beginning of a partnership that was like no other between Logan and Deuce. “Deuce and I were a match made in heaven,” Logan said. “Someone up there was definitely looking out for me.” That night in Atlantic City in 2005 could have played out much differently if not for Deuce. Logan and Deuce followed an armed robber under the Boardwalk where he barricaded himself with sand. Deuce sniffed his way to the barricade and dug ferociously until he found the robber. Logan pulled him out and arrested him. This heroic act won Deuce a spot in the New Jersey Veterinary Foundation Hall of Fame in 2006. In addition, Deuce won awards from the Philadelphia Crime Commission and the USS Intrepid in New York. Talk about a great resume. The duo also finds time to give back to their community. They visit schools to explain the training process of the K-9 unit and to showcase the special partnership between Officer Logan and Deuce. After years of hard work, Deuce recently retired with a bash in his honor. “He is so well noted in Atlantic City. He is just as great with kids as he is on the job,” Logan boasts. “I get pretty emotional talking about him. He is just that one-of-a-kind.” On that Christmas Eve in 1999, Deuce proved to be not only the perfect gift for Officer Logan, but for the people of Atlantic City, as well. ✽
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IBEW Local Union 98 acknowledges Philadelphia RowHome Magazine’s 2010 “Salute to Service” honorees including
The Sacred Heart Men’s Club Women Coaches of the CYO
VOLUME _8 ISSUE 18_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
HANGIN’OUT
APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2010
1_ Callan Joseph Murtha hangs out with his Poppy, Mike Giuda, Spectrum Realty. 2_ Dorette & Dawn hang out with Fr. Gary at the Padre Pio Festival’s kickoff dinner.
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3_ E-Zee Travel’s Italy group tour 2007 photo taken near Mount Etna in Taomina, Sicily. Pictured are ‘RowHome Grown’ travelers Louis Giuffrida, Elaine Trulli, Barbara Ann Diana, Joseph Diana, Sharon Perez Suarez, Suzanne J. Rossomando, Barbara Ferrilli, Robert T. Ferrilli, Mario and Ann Marcelli, John and Josephine Turley, Michael and Phyllis Martinelli, Rita and William D’Ambrosio, Damon D’Ambrosio, & Louis Desiderio. 4_ Epiphany All-Class Reunion - Miss DeRose & Class of ‘71 Students 5_ IKEA’s Transportation Operations Department and their families and friends participated in the Breast Cancer Awareness 5K Walk at Cooper River Park. 6_ Dawn with Fr. Nick Martorano at St. Nicholas’ annual Festival of Saints celebration.
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7_ Happy Anniversary to Pete Santini (from 600 Sigel Street) & Nancy (Trignani) Santini (from 1600 Juniper St.) who have lived happily for the past 55 years at 11th & Wolf. 8_ Gina Santini & friends. Go Phillies! 9_ Jacinta Maria Love is hangin’ out. 10_ Nicolette Retallick & Madison Gillen at the pool party. 11_ Joseph and Dominic Love are hangin’ out. 12_ Brett Jackson, Michael Rhoades & Michael Gillen enjoy a dip in the Jacuzzi.
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13_ Uncle Tomy’s Pizza congratulates the Barrels’ Brigade on their 11th place finish at the 2010 Mummers Parade. 14_ Hangin’ Out with the Retallicks at the Family Reunion. 15_ Dorette & Donna Diorio with Vincenzo from DaVinci’s Restaurant.
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16_ The Goretti girls from Class of 1977 get together for dinner at DaVinci’s. Cheryl Mitchell, Donna Galligan, Andrea Nicolucci, Dorette Rota-Jackson, Cheryl Conforto, Donna Diorio, Donna Galligan, Michele Anastasi & Sally Ferullo-Bagley.
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P   RHSPOTLIGHT
by Dorette Rota Jackson photos by PAUL LOFTLAND Architec 360
Monti Rago Funeral Home
A major
undertaking Contractor Spotlight Scaramuzza Construction Co.
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P RHSPOTLIGHT
Private lounges and seven bathrooms keep guests comfortable.
Families can view their “Life” videos via a closed-circuit AV system and flat screen televisions on every level.
Insulation in every wall and floor ensures privacy.
To assist physically challenged guests, contractors drilled 33 feet to install an elevator that accommodates 25 people.
“This project marks a resurgence for Broad Street.” Vincent Mancini It had been more than four decades since any renovations were made to Monti-Rago Funeral Home, a neighborhood landmark since founder Sam Monti joined a dozen existing parlors on Funeral Row back in 1953. So when it came time to renovate the Broad Street manor, Funeral Director Mark Rago called on contractor Frank Scaramuzza to lead the way. The challenge? Merge traditional with contemporary. Maintain the high-ceilinged, crown-molded integrity of the original edifice while addressing modern issues like traffic flow and multi-use rooms. As he does with all of his projects, Scaramuzza said he first selected an architect to help execute Rago’s vision. Vincent Mancini of Landmark Architectural Design joined the team. “To do everything right, you have to plan…have the team in place before the project starts so everyone 28
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has input,” Scaramuzza explains. “Renovations are more difficult and more costly than new construction. You have to work within the constraints of the existing structure.” Thirty renderings later – “We drove around Philly and noted amenities on old buildings that caught my eye,” Scaramuzza interjects – the project commenced. For the next 48 weeks, passersby watched the team transform the dated building into a stately tribute to the memories it houses. “Broad Street is a beautiful street,” Rago answers when asked about the steep pricetag for renovating the building’s 6,000 square feet of space. “As a resident,” – he has lived in the same zip code his entire life – “I wanted to re-invest in this community where I live and work. My kids are here. My wife is here. My business is here. I invested in this project for the generations of families who use this facility.” ✽
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PRHLIFE
life
Addicted to
P Second Chances by Samantha Stein
hiladelphia native Frank Donatucci doesn’t believe in second chances. He believes in third, fourth and fifth chances. And when addiction has you at its beck and call, one needs more than chance to win the battle.Growing up in South Philadelphia was full of heartache, mistakes and substance abuse for Donatucci, 32. He said doing drugs was not about ‘fitting in’ or ‘peer pressure.’ It was about filling voids. “Something was missing in my life. After trying drugs, it felt complete,” he said. Donatucci was no stranger to the perils of substance abuse. His brother died from drugs and his neighborhood was full of people involved in the
same thing. He said he started out using drugs only on the weekends. Then the weekends turned into Monday and Wednesday. Eventually, every day was a weekend. By the time he turned 21, his drug use had gone from casual to full-fledged addiction. After a serious car accident, Donatucci said he reached his personal ‘rock bottom’ – swallowing about 10 Oxycontins a day. He knew he needed to change. A family friend suggested a halfway house in Florida. Boarding the plane was his first step toward recovery. The Twelve Step Program that followed became a life-changing journey. Things began looking up for Donatucci. (continued on page 33 )
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
Performing Arts Charter Founder and CEO Angela Corosanite (top row, 3rd from left), Principal Dr. Gail Avicolli (bottom row, 3rd from left) with a group of teachers and staff.
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Performing Arts Charter marks 1 0th year
T
by Emily Bufano
he large silver letters on the bright blue brick building at Broad & Oregon boldly announce the home of the Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School. According to everyone involved in Philadelphia education, this high-performing K-8 school is a first-magnitude star among the constellation of 70 or so charter schools in the city—and the only one ever to have had its charter renewed unconditionally. This year the school is celebrating its 10th Anniversary— “a decade of education through the arts,” as the row of colorful banners hanging outside proudly proclaims. Its arts-based, inner-city, grade-school already has served as the prototype for schools in Pittsburgh and Chester. Plans are underway to add significantly to the school’s enrollment. The school’s overarching mission, says CEO Angela Corosanite, who founded the school with her husband Joseph, is first to identify a child’s natural-born learning style and intelligence type—and then gear instruction accordingly. “Students have to be in a place where their inherent gifts and tendencies have a large enough frame in which to emerge,” says Corosanite, a dark-haired native South Philadelphian with high cheekbones and the gracefully confident carriage of a former ballet dancer. “Children won’t thrive in an environment that doesn’t expose them broadly enough to allow them to see who they are and who they can be. Our children thrive.” The school is unique in a number of ways: Classical arts is at the heart of its rich traditional curriculum. Principal Dr. Gail Avicolli, who calls her tenure at Performing Arts Charter “the best experience I’ve had in my 40-year career,” reviews every test taken by every student-and there are 482 of them this year. Everyone takes ballet, French and creative writing, and each student learns an instrument. But the school’s administration points out that it is not in business to create performers (though it has helped develop its share). It is in the business of education and academic performance is paramount. Over the years, the school has raised the standardized test scores of
PRHLIFE students who were accepted at its inception from the 20th—percentile— and worse—to the 70th-, 80th- and, in some cases, the 90th-percentile, consistently meeting or exceeding state Department of Education goals. Graduates have received more than $1 million in scholarships to prominent private high schools such as the Baldwin School, Choate-Rosemary Hall and the Agnes Irwin School or routinely attend highly competitive, criteria-based public schools such as Central, Girls High, CAPA and GAMP. All it takes is a visit to the facility to be blown decades back to an era Corosanite remembers fondly, when public schools offered comprehensive art and music as a matter of course. The school building itself, once a Food Fair supermarket, may not be much to look at from the outside. “But when people come inside,” Corosanite says, “they say it’s magic.” ✽
Addicted to Life
(continued from page 30) His girlfriend moved from Philadelphia to be near him while he was in recovery. Before long, friends from the neighborhood started showing up in search of treatment for their own addictions. Things were seemingly on track. He and his girlfriend got engaged and had a baby girl. And he was clean and sober for three years and counting. Then misfortune reared its ugly head. His fiancé’s father was sick. For Donatucci, moving back to Philadelphia was the right thing to do. “You always have ‘nevers’ -- things you’ll ‘never’ do again….and then you wind up doing it again,” Donatucci said. Depression set in and he fell back into his old habits. He ended up right back where he started three years prior. Once again, Frank Donatucci made a commitment to better himself. After a short stint in a New Jersey rehab, he relapsed. He knew he had to go back to Florida. Only this time, it was harder. He had a wife, child and had just purchased a house that he was fixing up. But he knew he was a “product of his environment.” The Frank in Philadelphia was no comparison to the one in Florida, he explained. He booked a flight and headed back to halfway in the Sunshine State. He wound up doing so well with his recovery that a staff member he met his first time around recommended him for a job in a nearby treatment center. Today, Frank Donatucci is the Director of Admissions at the Florida House Experience, a 170-bed campus-style facility in Deerfield Beach that offers residential, intensive outpatient and transitional living. Frank lives in nearby Boca Raton with his wife, daughter and son. Through his work and treatment, he said he has become a better son, husband, father, friend and employee. Sober now for three years, Donatucci knows “relapse is not a requirement.” And ‘second chances’ are a good thing. “Hope is in others when you don’t see it in yourself,” he said. ✽ For more information, contact Frank Donatucci at the Florida House Experience, 888.421.6242 or log onto www.floridahouseexperience.com.
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gohomephilly.com ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 27
2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
State of the
Arts by Angela DiGerolamo
S
tanding on the corner of Broad & Shunk Streets at 3:30 PM, crowds of children eagerly exit the doors. It’s a typical scene for most students—excited to be finished school for the day, dreading tomorrow’s return. However, the tune is different here at the Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School (PPACS). Students sprint to their parents to spill details of the thrilling things they’ve learned that day. Many students are singing the praises of one teacher in particular, Mr. Falcione. Born and raised on the 2300 block of Carlisle Street, native South Philadelphian Joseph Anthony Falcione, known to many as “Joe Journey”, is a science teacher at PPACS. He began teaching for the School District of Philadelphia in 1993, where he shuffled around different schools before receiving an offer for a 5th grade teaching position at a new charter school. Excited to be able to create his own teaching environment, Falcione quickly accepted the offer. PPACS opened its doors in September 2000 for grades Kindergarten through 5th, quickly adding additional grades and teachers as the years progressed. The school has since blossomed into a full K-8th grade program with a mission of integrating the Arts into its elementary and middle school curriculum. The Arts program features French as a language, Visual Arts, Creative Writing, Computers, Innovations in Science, Ballet, Instrumentals, Vocals and a full Choir and String Orchestra (both multiple award winners). In March 2009, Falcione was asked to create a new Science program that included a brand new laboratory to give students an opportunity that most other schools lacked. “My mouth dropped and I immediately jumped at this remarkable opportunity. I felt honored to have been asked,” Falcione recalls. He spends his days teaching all areas of science including Life Sciences, Forensics and Amusement Park Physics to more than 450 students - one hour at a time. “Watching my students literally run to my lab excited to get their hands on science is exhilarating. Now that is a great feeling. This is a great job.” PPACS recently received the distinction of being the only charter school in Pennsylvania to receive a charter renewal with no conditions attached. The waiting list for PPACS is in the hundreds and it’s not hard to understand why. With dedicated, energetic teachers, a unique Arts program and a state-of-the-art science lab, this school’s report card is a dream-come-true for parents, students and staff. ✽
2010
CATCH ALL
SALUTE TO SERVICE
THE ACTION
Members of the Sacred Heart Men’s Club. Front: Joe McKenna, Brian W. Donnelly, Robert Acasdia, John Demchuk,Tom Betteridge. Back: Tom Nicolo, Greg Donzuso, Ken Dougherty, Mike Connell, Dom Ricciuti, Dan Dziadon
A True Labor of
by Lauren Macaluso photos by Joe Krause
Like father, like son! Joey Sarnese (All CAL, free safety, wide receiver) makes another game-saving catch for Holy Spirit High School, reminding his dad of his own glory days as linebacker at Bishop Neumann HS, Glassboro State College & Rowan University.
Call JOE SARNESE your “RowHome Grown” connection 609.442.7900 36
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T
Love
he Sacred Heart of Jesus Church at the corner of 3rd & Reed is recognized by the community as a symbol of family, tradition and faith. Recently, the church has come to represent much more. The Sacred Heart of Jesus Men’s Club was formed to sponsor renovation projects to maintain this century-old church for future generations.
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P RHLIFE It was at a Catholic Life Conference on stewardship that Tom Betteridge decided to start a club that would combine the different skills and trades of people in the neighborhood. On Father’s Day of that year, Betteridge and President Mike Connell announced the idea. “Everyone in this neighborhood is proud of their heritage and they’re proud of their mummers clubs and their unions,” Betteridge said to the congregation. “It’s about time the men in this neighborhood spoke up and said they were proud to be Catholic and proud to be from Sacred Heart.” The first project began when Brian Donnelly funded a painting campaign. After Donnelly paid for a section of the sanctuary to be painted, other parishioners saw what a difference it made and wanted to sponsor a section, too. All 104 members of the Men’s Club, numerous in-kind donations and the parish itself were instrumental in renovating the sanctuary and the church’s basement. John Dougherty, President of IBEW Local Union 98, worked with MLK Lighting to replace 300 light bulbs in the sanctuary under their ‘Go Green 98’ initiative. Mike Fera, from Cement Masons, connected the
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Men’s Club with someone who could fill a large hole in the basement floor. According to Connell, the parish is restoring the church. The Men’s Club just helped “get the ball rolling.” In just three years, communion rails and light fixtures have been restored, cracks have been filled, statues of the saints have been dusted off and parishioners are thrilled with the results. “It’s a great feeling when you come to church on Sunday with your kids and you look up to see how nice it looks,” Betteridge said. “We often say what are we going to do after we completely restore the church back to its original beauty?” Betteridge continues, “I turn around to these guys and I always tell them, ‘there’s always the rectory, the convent and the school.’ There’s always plenty of work for the Sacred Heart of Jesus Men’s Club and by the time we’re done, it’ll need another paint job.” The Men’s Club will continue work on the sanctuary but is also developing a strategy to preserve the heritage of the church and Sacred Heart of Jesus School. Any alumni, companies or individuals interested in supporting their efforts can visit www.sacredheartchurchsp.com. ✽
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F The man
behind the stage by Brittany Esser
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
PRHLIFE
rom the extravagant 4th of July fireworks in the heat of the summer to the delightful ice skating rink in the midst of the bitter cold, Penn’s Landing site operations worker Ron Lacy is always there to set up the show. Thanks to Lacy and the 14-member on-site operations crew, visitors are able to witness the magic that takes place during all seasons at this beautiful landmark. Ron Lacy is a Philadelphia native who attended Ben Franklin High before working for the site operations department at Penn’s Landing. For 26 years, Lacy has worked with his crew to set up ethnic festivals, fireworks for New Year and July 4th concerts, shows, annual events and the famous ice skating rink at Penn’s Landing. “It is a beautiful place to work for. Every day is something different,” Lacy explains. “I wouldn’t be able to do it without my co-workers. We are all very good at and used to what we do.” Not only does Lacy work for Penn’s Landing but he also does work for the Marina, docking and setting up coming and going naval ships. “One of my memorable experiences on the job was when I first started,” Lacy recalls. “We were trying to turn the bow on Philly’s tall ship Gazella when the ply board underneath it slipped. I lost my balance and fell in the water. It was the coldest day of my life.” Fortunately, that was Lacy’s first and only time plummeting into the water on the job. So, the next time you enjoy a traditional event and the beautiful riverside Penn’s Landing, remember Ron Lacy and his staff for their outstanding contributions to one of the city’s most memorable experiences. ✽
Gone too soon
A
by Lauren Gorden
fter nibbling at her turkey club, psychologist and counselor Angela Betances daintily wipes the crumbs from the corners of her thin lips. She sets the napkin down and leans across her husband Robert towards the waiter. Her bright eyes alight with curiosity, she reaches out to the young waiter and, in her rich Greek accent, asks him what he is doing there and what he is studying in school. A sheepish grin appears as the young man bends his lanky body down to speak with Dr. Betances. “I am actually not in school right now,” the waiter admits, pushing brown wisps of hair from his eyes. “I don’t know what I want to do yet and since I am paying for school myself, I don’t want to waste money on a career I could hate in 20 years.” Dr. Betances’ eyes widen with disapproval. She begins a five-minute lecture on how a bright young man such as himself can do anything he wants. She even proposes several options. The waiter politely nods as Angela offers her generous advice. Her husband of 40 years smiles and shakes his head. He’s obviously accustomed to the scenario. Though one may expect this reaction from a seasoned psychologist, it is Robert and Dr. Betances’ painful past that makes this good-natured doctor so awe-inspiring. In 1994, Robert and Dr. Betances’ only son Anthony went on vacation to Jamaica to celebrate his cousin’s recent induction into the field of pediatrics. On day two of their trip, as they returned home from a charity golf outing, they were struck by a moped driver who, according to Dr. Betances, was under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Anthony and his cousin were killed. In his memory, a devastated Dr. Betances opened “A.N.B. Counseling” in Berlin, New Jersey. She dedicates her counseling career to families that are victims to drug and alcohol abuse. She also counsels
2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
P RHLIFE
children who are bereaved and broken. Emotions that are all too familiar to her and her husband. When you walk into her office, artwork abounds. A photograph of a handsome young man with dark hair and chocolate eyes smiles at you from a sunlit wall. “His looks were nothing compared to his personality,” Dr. Betances affirms. “He was a poet, an artist, an athlete, a scholar and most of all, a humanitarian. He had a beautiful mind.” Just before his death, Anthony was accepted into six early enrollment medical school programs but chose Jefferson University, Betances continues. He was called to continue the research he previously began at the National Institute of Bethesda where he helped discover a gene that contributes to childhood leukemia. “He used to say ‘It is in my blood’ to be a neurosurgeon,” Dr. Betances proudly remarks. “He came from two distinct backgrounds. His grandfather had 12 brothers. All of them were doctors - 10 of them medical and two of them doctors of philosophy. My background was very religious and this inspired Anthony to tell me he would see patients for free a few times a month to help out.” In his first year of college, instead of gaining the “freshman 15“ and the inevitable beer belly, Anthony coordinated anti-drug and alcohol programs. He hosted music nights and an intellectual discussion evening to help distract his peers from using. Anthony even became a DJ and donated his money to various charities. His good nature inspired his mother to pick up where her son left off. “I am devastated, totally devastated and detached from the world. But I am not detached from doing good and from believing in good,” Angela Betances affirms. After her son’s violent death, Dr. Betances said she buried herself in her work. She began counseling at schools and eventually returned to school for psychology. She earned her second master’s in the subject and is licensed in drug and alcohol abuse training. Her dream is to finish what Anthony started. Despite her silent grief, Dr. Betances said rowhome magazine
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she is on a mission to tend to the needs of children all over the world. She volunteers in the community, produces plays and lectures throughout the Garden State. She attributes her strength to her Greek Orthodox faith, mediation, a lot of writing and recording messages for her lost son. “I survived because I found a lot of comfort in those kids,” Dr. Betances says, “And I was very inspired by them. I used to hold them in my arms and talk to them about Anthony’s life, what he did and how successful he is – was - and how he was able to resist the pressure in his first year of college when everybody was drinking and using.”
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Anthony’s legacy inspired her to write a book for parents called “How to Shield Children from Alcohol and Other Drugs.” Most of the book focuses on psychological counseling. The rest discusses specific drugs and their effects on children. Dr. Betances says the goal of her book is to help parents understand the effects that social and genetic environments have on children. Readers will learn how they can prevent kids from becoming part of the drug and alcohol culture. How they can help develop a productive child. “I have a message for parents out there,” Dr. Betances declares. “I want to teach them about the world around them. Just like they teach their children how to walk, talk, touch and feel, they can teach their kids about the world. By doing that, they can shield them from many evils, mainly drugs and alcohol. Violence, theft, abuse. They are all there waiting to hijack the minds of our children.” More than a decade later, Dr. Betances says she struggles daily with her loss. Despite her immeasurable grief, she says she still views the world with awe and respect. “Do I cry?” she rhetorically asks. “Yes. I cry every day. In the morning when I get up. At night. But now, I am tired of crying. I am strong when it comes to the value of life and I have a great pathos and compassion for children and specialize in almost all backgrounds. If you take that away from me, I wouldn’t make it. Helping them has helped me.” ✽ Contact Angela R. Betances, Ph.D. at www.anbcounseling.com or call 856.768.1101.
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
P RHLIFE
Specializing in ● Fresh Meat ● Deli ● Oven ready ● Prepared Meals ● Catering
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2
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1 1_Ludwig Capozzi Sr. with his family (back row, l-r) Jim DeGregorio, Adelaide Capozzi DeGregorio, Domenica (Minnie) and Fedele. (front row, l-r) Ludwig Jr., William and Salvatore. 2_Packer Park, March 1959 – Left: Uber St.; Top: Forrestal St.; Right: Halsey Place. 3_Ludwig Capozzi Jr. (second from left) and members of the Capozzi family join with students to attend the blessing and unveiling of the marble statue of St. Maria Goretti donated by Ludwig Capozzi Sr. 4_Another view of 1959 Packer Park.
Leader
of the
Pack Cu’ nesci, arrinesci. Chi esce dal proprio paese, trova la fortuna. (He who goes outside his country gets lucky.) Sicilian proverb
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A
hundred years ago and a hundred miles northwest of Messina Sicily, in the little mountain town of Calvaruso, Domenica Irerra, an unschooled, diminutive teenager surrounded by a tomato garden and grinding poverty, sat on a straw-stuffed tuffet. Bone gohomephilly.com
needles in hands, she concentrated on knitting a pair of dark blue woolen stockings for her dowry. In a month, she and her father, a widower named Cheech, would follow her sisters Maria and Sadie to America - to Philadelphia. Her betrothed, one of the Capozzi boys from a yonder hamlet, made it across the ocean the year before. Ludwig salted away enough money to send for her. “They had nothing when they came here,” third generation Real Estate Broker, Insurance Broker and attorney Barbara Capozzi emphasizes about her grandparents, waving a piece of dry toast in the air. We’re sitting at a table in the back of the Penrose Diner, eating breakfast. “What they had was a dream,” she reveals, “to help other immigrants.” Ludwig Capozzi knew if he could escape the porca miseria of his old life and focus on hard work, he
4 could have a better existence. Like so many of his fellow emigrants, he first lived in a boarding house in the heart of a huckster neighborhood in South Philadelphia. He saw how the Sicilian immigrants settled in the same neighborhoods. How they liked to keep their language and culture alive. Many refused to learn English, relying on translators instead. He noticed that rows upon rows of tiny homes were being built on narrow streets. He yearned for a home for his young bride - the impetus he needed to learn all he could about construction, real estate, business and the English language. He learned from his breaks and his mistakes. With Domenica by his side to rear the children and pinch the pennies, he could give back to his new community. Through a graceful sip of her decaf, Capozzi kicks off with a little nostalgia.
Home is a place where memories Your legacy begins today.
P RHreal Estate
Barbara Third gener pro Specializ Rentals in
Broker Barbara Capozzi, Esq. third generation of real estate professionals specializing in sales and rentals in the Packer Park area, stands in front of the Lion’s Preserve she and brother Ludwig III dedicated to the memory of their father, Packer Park Founder Ludwig S. Capozzi Jr.
This Pavillion is dedicated to the memory of Packer Park Founder Ludwig S. Capozziwith Jr. byhis his children Barbara A. Capozzi Simultaneous contem“My grandfather helped a lot
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the opportunities he was given of Packer Avenue. It was farmand wanted to give back. www.CapozziRealEstate.com He land and rural spaces but Lud bc@CapozziRealEstate.com opened a little office on 1801215.551.5100 S. saw a thousand or more families 3320 South 20th living inStreet a modern community of 10th Street - Capozzi Real Estate. PA 19145 homes with lawns, They had a big family to feed. Philadelphia, My contemporary father, Ludwig Jr., was one of 5 private parking and off the grid, children - four boys and a girl. cul-de-sac traffic. Mustering all the fervor of a new He was the middle child. After getting his real estate license, he father, he assembled 21 sepaworked out of that office for many rate parcels of land. “This was an years. He literally learned at his arduous task for him,” Capozzi father’s knee. I know the feeling recounts. “Some of these parcels because that’s how real estate were lots, others were farms. He was introduced to me, by going had to trace people down. It took time. He also found partners.” to open houses with my dad.” From a historical point of view, Although her father encouraged her to go to law school - “He want- Packer Park had its origins in a ed me to be a judge!” she laughs defunct territory called Passyunk - it was the call of the closing that Township. Here is where the caught her attention. Both she original Swedish settlers took up and her brother, realtor Ludwig III, residence before they eventually found other areas to occupy. are successful in their legacy. When the township ceased to It was the 1950s and babies were booming. Lud Jr. mar- exist, the Act of Consolidation of ried Rita Foti, another child of 1854 incorporated it into the city. immigrants, and with their two The consolidation was drafted to toddlers in mind, remembered help combat lawlessness that the the early lessons of his father’s many local governments could experience: a home equals sta- not handle separately and to bring bility and young families like to in much-needed tax revenue for live close to their parents (but the city. William Fisher Packer was not too close) in clean, secure governor at the time and the main avenue was named for him. communities.
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The Reser Custom
Sol
P RHreal Estate The sons and daughters of Italian immigrants and their offspring soon populated the irresistible Packer Park. It had all the South Philadelphia amenities and conveniences with the look of the suburbs, plus a shopping center, nice schools, a playground and church. It was the perfect place to live. Lud got to observe his vision of the future. “Let me see,” recounts Capozzi, as the waitress removes our plates. “I’m married 18 years. My father’s been gone now for 17 years. I’m still being inspired by him. In the late 1950s, my grandfather and father donated the St. Maria Goretti statue that stands outside the school. My grandfather passed away during that time and my father dedicated it in his memory. I had no idea about this. I never really saw the plaque. I went to Girls High. Then, in the mail, I get a few photocopied pages from an old Goretti yearbook and there is a picture of my father standing by the statue with a crowd of people!” So moved, in homage, Capozzi developed a memorial open green space on 20th and Hartranft Streets called The Lion’s Preserve. I ask about the symbolism of the lion. “ My father had the heart of a lion,” she explains. “He was devoted to this area and fought hard to make it what it is today.” Picking up where her father left off, Barbara Capozzi partnered with private developer John Westrum and became the exclusive Broker for a series of new luxury Packer Park townhouses with colonial style architecture and green technology. Called The Reserves, the development occupies the site that once housed Navy personnel. By using the existing street layout, a preservation of existing green spaces, large back yards with open pocket parks and tot lots could be maintained. Sotto voce I ask her the secret of successful home ownership. “I like to bring buyer and seller together, like a matchmaker,” she divulges. “I feel joy when I pair the right house with the right family. Our properties are safe and have retained their value because of the inter-family geography, whether it’s the The Reserves, The Villas or The Regency.” Fifty years ago, a new South Philadelphia emerged from a patchwork of marshes, grasses and quagmire. Today, like a phoenix, Packer Park is once again rising. ✽ Maria Merlino lives in and writes about South Philadelphia rowhome magazine
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River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. o
Philadelphia RowHome Magazine presents Once again, the Philadelphia Eagles walked the runway in fashions by Pat Scioli, “tailor to the Eagles,” during Philadelphia RowHome Magazine’s annual Red Carpet gala. Sponsored by Cescaphe Ballroom, the event convenes more than 250 members of the PRH Business Network, celeb-
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rity guests and media personalities, to celebrate our business community – the heirs and the entrepreneurs that are the economic backbone of our city of neighborhoods. As part of its annual ‘Salute to Service’ program, PRH presented its 2009 Blue Sapphire Awards to Cathy Gandolfo,
gohomephilly.com
Action News (RowHome Grown Award); Ed & Steve Sabol, NFL Films (Local Business Success Story); Sid Mark, Broadcasting Pioneer (Entertainment); Michael Toklish, Friends of Jefferson Square Park (Community Service) & Ray Didinger, Sportswriter & Broadcaster, who received the Harry Kalas
Memorial Award (Sports). Special thanks to Philadelphia Eagles DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, Todd Herremans & Macho Harris escorted by Dana Forgione, Dana Barone, Nicole Castelli & Karol Escobar. River to River. One Neighborhood.
affair an
To remember
9 2009
one neighboRhood. hood. RiveR to RiveR. Rive one neighboRhood. RiveR to Rive RiveR. one neighboRhoo sponsored by Cescaphe Ballroom
SAluTe To Service
Blue SaPPhire AwArd
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eagles, Pat & anna Scioli
eagles, the cutting Point
Salvatore inc.
Jellyroll, Ray didinger
PRh
nFl Films, Jellyroll, the Business
hot hands
Marnie hall
RiveR to RiveR. one neighboRhood. RiveR to RiveR. one neighboRhood. RiveR to RiveR. o
the
PhiladelPhia
ROwhOMe
BuSineSS
netwORK
Loyal brand
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Cops for the Cure
PRH
South Philadelphia Business Association
Happy Windows
Gangemi Funeral Home
Jimmy Styles
TD Bank, Day’s Soda
B4U Root, Hair Cuttery
PRH
one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhoo
Event Sponsors:
›Joseph Volpe & the Cescaphe Staff › Men’s Fashions provided by Pasquale & Anna Scioli › Women’s Fashions provided by Felice Elan, Aci Nae ›Tuxedos by Rudi’s ›Hair & Makeup by The Cutting Point ›Jewelry by D. Olivieri Jewelers ›Music by Jellyroll
›Sinatra Entertainment by Lou Dottoli ›Videography by Nick Lanciano › Lighting/Audio by Jason Weldon, Synergetic Sounds & Lighting › Photography by Phil Kramer, John McMullen, Rebecca Savedow › Master of Ceremonies – Larry Gallone › Special thanks to J-Walkers for the Cure & Cops for the Cure
affair
P h i l a d e l p h i a R o w Hom e P R E S ENT S
an
To remember
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P RHTHE MENU
Dorette & Dawn - with Penrose owners Pete Dovas and son Bill Dovas - enjoy Chef Savas Kiriazoglou’s famous ribs.
Finger Lickin’
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gohomephilly.com
by Leah Curran photos by Phil Kramer
L
ooking for something tasty to sink your teeth into? Then you might want to head to the Penrose Diner. Rumor has it that the diner is home to the best ribs in the city. And if you’re looking to discover the secret ingredients, don’t bother. The only secret that Penrose’s manager Bill Dovas will dish out is that these ribs are slow cooked all day long in order to achieve the utmost melt-in-your-mouth taste. A neighborhood landmark for more than 60 years, Penrose was voted “Best Diner” by South Philadelphians an impressive four years in a row. After tasting anything from its extensive menu, this duly earned title is understandable. The regulars include neighborhood patrons and people from all over who come to get their grub on while enjoying the great service and the friendly, com-
P RHTHE MENU fortable atmosphere at the Penrose. Located in the shadows of the city’s Stadium District, it’s served its share of celebrities through the years (former President Bill Clinton recently stopped by during a visit to town.)
“A neighborhood landmark for more than 60 years, Penrose was voted “Best Diner” by South Philadelphians an impressive four years in a row. After tasting anything from its extensive menu, this duly earned title is understandable.” Just ask 3-year-old South Philly local Frankie Motti why he loves coming to this particular diner every weekend.
“The pancakes!” He answers without hesitation. “Penrose Diner is a great meeting place on Sundays after church service,” claims Judy Malone, a lifelong resident, “It’s where the people gather to talk about the day’s sermon and enjoy delicious breakfast or lunch.” Apparently, Malone isn’t the only one who feels this way about weekends at the popular spot. “On Sundays between noon and 1 o’clock, the people stand in line and wait to be seated,” she shares. So what is this restaurant’s key to keeping business deliciously booming for so long? An informal poll of happy patrons reveals a popular Penrose Combo—accommodating service provided by friendly staff; convenient hours (open 24 hours on Fridays & Saturdays); and mouthwatering, homemade food (including daily specials) that keep the faithful coming back for more. Penrose Diner, 20th & Penrose Avenue, Philadelphia, 215.465.1097.
F O R S A L E S A N D R E N TA L S , P L E A S E C A L L 2 1 5 - 8 0 5 - 1 2 2 6
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Prhfilm
Good Credit Bad Credit No Credit Don't Sweat it
a site for tour eyes Our Pop-pop Will Never Steer You Wrong! Logan & Ava
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east Coast
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by sharon Pinkenson
T
he Greater Philadelphia Film Office is off to an exciting start in 2010. This spring we are thrilled to launch our fifth season of the Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour. We have added several blockbuster movies filmed in Philadelphia to the tour including: Law Abiding Citizen, Transformers 2, Marley & Me, The Answer Man, Baby Mama and The Happening. The Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour is presented by PNC Arts Alive, a five-year, $5 million grants initiative that supports arts organizations in putting forth their best, most original thinking to expand audience participation and engagement. The Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour visits more than 30 movie locations and lasts about as long as a feature-length film. At each site, guests enjoy movie clips while lounging on a state-of-the-art luxury bus equipped with a large screen plasma television and surround
P RHfilm “The Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour visits more than 30 movie locations and lasts about as long as a feature-length film. At each site, guests enjoy movie clips while lounging on a state-of-the-art luxury bus equipped with a large screen plasma television and surround sound – just like a rolling movie theater! The tour stops at iconic movie sites such as Famous 4th Street Deli, PA Convention Center/ Reading Terminal Market, Eastern State Penitentiary, Amtrak’s 30th Street Station, City Hall, Italian Market, Tequila’s restaurant and Jamaican Jerk Hut.” sound – just like a rolling movie theater! The tour stops at iconic movie sites such as Famous 4th Street Deli, PA Convention Center/Reading Terminal Market, Eastern State Penitentiary, Amtrak’s 30th Street Station, City Hall, Italian Market, Tequila’s restaurant and Jamaican Jerk Hut. Not only will guests enjoy experiencing the actual sites where the movies were filmed and seeing clips from these scenes, but they will also learn the inside scoop on some of their favorite stars and other fun facts from the movie set. In addition to our Saturday tours, we are adding “Date Night” the last Friday of every month. This fun new tour will be similar to our daytime tour but with the addition of a delicious dinner. This is a terrific twist on the normal Friday date night—instead of one movie, guests can see 30+. For group fun, there is also the option to book a private tour for up to 50 people. During this personalized tour, time is allotted for passengers to pose with the Rocky statue, run up the stairs and stand in Sylvester Stallone’s bronze footprints for photographs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Specialized tours can be created depending on any group’s particular interests. Just ask us! Tours depart from Independence Visitor Center and travel through Center City, Old City, Queen Village, South Philadelphia, Parkway Museum District, Fairmount and the Art Museum Area. Reserve your seat today at www.moviesitestour.com and we’ll see you at the movies! Sharon Pinkenson has served as Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office for 18 years. A non-profit corporation generating more than $3 billion during her tenure, Pinkenson markets the City of Philadelphia and surrounding regions to the film, video and television industry. She coordinates all aspects of production from cast and crew, support businesses and locations to community relations, government services and incentives, enhancing the region’s reputation internationally on both the big and small screen. Visit www.film.org for more information. �
Marianne, Anthony, Ava Rose, Dina, Christina Back Row L to R
Paul and Teresa Front Row L to R
The Stolfo Funeral Home Where everyone is treated like Family Paul C. Stolfo, Director 2536 So. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376
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PRHFILM
West Coast
The team of Eastman-Rossi Productions – Lynn Eastman-Rossi & Leo Rossi
Reporting from the West Coast
Oscar-mania by Leo Rossi
T
he major Hollywood studios spend millions upon millions of dollars on their publicity campaigns seeking Oscar recognition. An Oscar win brings with it not only fame and fortune to the winners but also translates into beaucoup bucks and prestige for the studios. I would like to relate two stories involving me and the Oscars. I played the antagonist (a very bad guy) in the movie “The Accused” starring Jodie Foster. She had been away from acting for 4 years while studying at Yale. The studio wasn’t sold on her so she had to screen test – TWICE – before finally getting the role of the gang rape victim. We shot the movie in Vancouver, Canada, and it turned out to be a box office smash. Jodie won the Best Actress Oscar and during her acceptance speech, she thanked four people; her mother, the director – Jonathan Kaplan, her co-star Kelly McGillis and me. She didn’t have to mention me but I was real glad she did. I guess she realized you need a nasty villain to make the star shine. 56
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My second brush with Oscar came while I was in Chicago rehearsing my one-man-show, “The Way of the Wiseguy”. I wrote the play with Bobby Moresco and Joe Pistone. Moresco and I were in a coffee shop about 8 AM planning the day’s upcoming rehearsal. His cell phone rang and the message he received changed his life and his career. His agent called him with the news that he was nominated for an Oscar for writing and producing the movie “Crash”. The movie ended up winning Best Picture of the Year and Best Original Screenplay for Moresco. I ended up paying for breakfast because he forgot his wallet in the hotel room. Speaking of Oscars, congratulations to Philadelphian Lee Daniels for his Oscar nomination for directing the film “Precious”. It was a powerful film and Lee deserves all the accolades. I love my Phillies but I’m feeling pressure from my two Italian brothers, Joe Torre (Dodgers) and Mike Scoscia (Angels) to support their teams. When the Phillies come to Los Angeles I attend all the games. Let me tell you, eating a Dodger Dog can’t come close to biting into a delicious Tony Luke’s Cheesesteak. Wish me luck. I am setting up meetings with the Networks to pitch a new series called “The Flying Under Squad”. It is based on the FBI’s first all-female undercover squad. It’s definitely going to be harder edged than “Charlie’s Angels”. More like “24”. Until next time, “Ciao Philly”! Leo Rossi is a founding member of Eastman-Rossi Productions. His project 10th AND WOLF, which he produced, received a theatrical release and is now a cable favorite. The all-star cast includes Giovanni Rubisi, James Marsden, Brad Renfro, Piper Perabo, Dennis Hopper, Val Kilmer, Brian Dennehy, Leslie Ann Warren and, of course, Leo. Rossi. He also produced WISEGAL starring Alyssa Milano and James Caan, which was the highest rated movie ever for the Lifetime Network. And won the 2008 Women’s Image Network award for “Outstanding Made for Television Movie.” �
PRHLIFE Like Father Like Son
(continued from page 21) A PAL kid, he went from being “the Irish guy with all the Italian guys” to a St. Joe’s Prep grad off to further his education at West Chester College. Then came the fake ID, blowing off classes, partying and eventually having to leave college altogether. “That was the hardest car ride home ever,” Junior says whose livid father “couldn’t see straight. On the way home, he said you’re officially a man now. You have 30 days to get out of my house.” A string of family-sustaining jobs became a necessity when Junior was a married father at the age of 20. In 1984, he broke apart from the nopolicing mindset when he saw an Italian Market merchant get jumped and robbed, watching an officer at the scene “really make a difference.” He was in a hiring-freeze era, so he tried the New Jersey State Police, SEPTA and Philly, for which he went to the academy in April 1988. “The minute I hit the academy, our relationship did a 360,” Junior recalls. “From hero to hating to lukewarm to having kind of an understanding of what he did for a living.” Junior’s path up the ranks mirrors Senior’s, jumping from the Sixth District to Narcotics, and rank from Officer to Detective to Sergeant to Lieutenant. In all, Junior logged 18 years in the PPD. He caught a break during John Timoney’s tenure considering the new commissioner tried out his initiatives – notably, the Gun Violence Task Force – in the district where Junior was based. (Hence, the internal-political beefs that still linger against him from ranking officers who didn’t like someone with fewer stripes catching so many breaks.) It also enabled him to see that, even though some beat guys are wary of educated folks, getting degrees was the key to advancing up the departmental hierarchy. That, his experience with departmental budgets and performance, and a willingness to move. After 17 years in Philly, Junior was named the chief of police in Shawnee, Oklahoma, where he stayed for a year before being sworn in as Daytona Beach’s chief in May 2006. Along the way, he got his Bachelor’s in management from Eastern University in 2004 and Masters in criminal justice from NOVA Southeastern University. He’s currently an adjunct professor at the University of Central Florida. In other words, neither Chitwood fits the central casting model for “Philadelphia Police Officer.” While Senior says he’s never pulled strings or offered on-hands coaching for Junior to follow in his chiefly footsteps, Junior says “there’s always been some competitiveness between us, even as chief.” Notably, when Senior heard about Junior using “bait cars” to catch auto thieves, “he won’t tell me that he likes it,” but that didn’t stop him from just bringing the concept to Upper Darby. They talk regularly, bouncing ideas off one another both chief-tochief and father-to-and-from-son. Even if they won’t say it, each is eminently proud of the other’s accomplishments. Today, Junior finds himself working the same tireless hours that he begrudged his father of back in the day, realizing that he has the same “moral compass” leading him to countless hours on the clock, rather than off. “It’s a way of life. That was a hard thing to understand when I was a kid,” Junior says. “I owe everything I am to my father. I am who I am because of him.” ✽
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PRHbrides guide
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Put
‘Jellyroll’ on the menu by Michelle Torres
Selecting the right music for your wedding is a task that commands as much attention as your menu according to Joseph Volpe, Owner/Chef of the award-winning Cescaphe Ballroom and The Atrium at the historic Curtis Center. “The right music is the difference between ‘memorable’ and ‘unforgettable.’ It sets the tone for your entire venue…puts your guests in the mood to celebrate with you.” If you are looking for the perfect musical complement to one of life’s most important occasions, look no further than the Philadelphia original horn party dance band, Jellyroll. In addition to winning “Best Of Philly,” “Best Of Delaware” and “Best Of The Main Line” awards, Jellyroll was recently selected as one of America’s best dance bands by Modern Bride magazine, which referred to it as one of the “150 Hottest Bands and DJs” in the United States. Performing at more than 100 exclusive and private events annually, Jellyroll’s style encompasses a mix of high energy and sophisticated chic featuring a repertoire of material from 1940’s swing and classics to the pounding dance floor rhythms of the new millennium. PRH recently sat down with Jellyroll founder and bandleader Kurt Titchenell to discuss the band’s award-winning past and its bright future.
PRH) When was band formed? JR) The band was originally formed back in 1980. We went from performing originals in the early ‘80s to cover material in nightclubs in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s before we evolved into the sophisticated high-energy dance band that we are today. PRH) Has there been much turnover in band personnel thru the years? KT) As you know, that is the nature of the business. But I am proud to say that there are still three original members from the first incarnation of the band that formed almost 30 years ago! PRH) Who are the current members of Jellyroll? KT) We have Dondi Allen – Lead Male Vocalist; Tesa Williams – Lead Female Vocalist; Cheryl Hicks – Female Vocalist; Ronin Ali – Male Vocalist and Percussion; Steve Sheppard – Guitar & Vocals; Gerry Antonelli – Bass & Vocals; AJ Nester – Trumpet & Vocals; Gary Brennan – Drums; Joe “Blues” Ramagano – Sax; Carole Armstrong – Electric Violin and Sax; Dave Dettra – Keyboards and myself, Kurt Titchenell – Bandleader & Trombone. I would like to also mention our sound technician Fred Beckel. rowhome magazine
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P RHbrides guide
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PRH) What was the band’s most memorable gig? KT) Without question, the 2007 Congressional Ball at The White House with President and Mrs. Bush, members of Congress, the Senate and other dignitaries and their guests. After a private photo session and presentation with the President and First Lady in the East Diplomatic Reception Room, the band performed a 2 1/2 hour show only to be asked by President Bush to continue for another 20 minutes! Needless to say, we did not decline! (Laughs) PRH) What is the best part of being in Jellyroll? KT) Performing with amazing musicians while making our clients’ dreams come true. We consider every performance to be our most important and truly appreciate the opportunities and blessings our band has been given. That is why we strive to pay it forward by giving back to the community by sponsoring and providing entertainment for various local charities such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand and the Flyers Wives Fight For Lives. In addition, we recently did the Cescaphe Ballroom cancer benefit.
P: 609.823.5301 F: 609.822.4109 Souneek@Comcast.net 62
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PRH) Has the current economy impacted the band? KT) We are very fortunate that Jellyroll’s hard work and reputation has protected us during this recession. While we lost a few corporate events, we were able to increase our social bookings. The future looks bright and our schedule is full of performances at the best venues in the area. PRH) How can our readers contact your band for potential bookings? KT) They can contact me at: Kurt Titchenell Brandywine Valley Talent 114 Commons Court Chadds Ford, PA 19317 610-358-9010 Cell: 484-888-8124 Fx: 610-358-9013 kurt@phillydancebands.com www.phillydancebands.com
�
About Joe Volpe, the Brides Guide: Ever keeping his eyes focused on the latest wedding trends, Owner/Chef Joseph Volpe is recognized as the area’s leading authority on ballroom bliss. With his innovative approach to the most important celebration in your life, his awardwinning Cescaphe Ballroom and The Atrium at the Curtis Center combine a captivating ambiance with exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable experience. Visit cescapheballroom.com or call 215.238.5750.
PRHon the corner
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The Last
Good
Time by Mark Casasanto
T
he floors were sticky and the air in the arena hung heavy with a perfect blend of humidity and the stench of stale beer. Still, there was a breathless anticipation as the brown brick building sprung to life with the opening wails of the 2001: Space Oddity theme. Ladies and Gentlemen, Elvis was in the building! I won’t profess total recall from that evening’s performance. In fact, it’s possible that I may have been more impressed with the grilled cheese
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PRHon the corner sandwich at the Penrose Diner afterward. more than 30 years later, I still remember that damn grilled cheese! Looking back, however, I stand in awe that on the corner of Broad & Pattison - in my own backyard - stood this building that provided the live version to the soundtrack of my life. It also offered up-close and personal trading card views of my childhood heroes. Guys like Reggie Leach, Julius Erving, Chief Jay Strongbow and meadowlark Lemon. Sadly, my first experience with the Spectrum was not so special. The Flyers, back in the day, held an annual clinic. The cost of admission was simply an Abbotts milk Bottle or a Tastykake® wrapper. As a mere child of seven, it’s no fun to be swiftly separated from your older brothers in the crush to get into the arena to see, of all things, a practice! Crying with Tastykake wrapper still in hand, I eventually was reunited with the neighborhood crew from 19th & Wolf. Slowly but surely, my love affair with the Spectrum began in earnest. There are so many snapshots of picture-perfect memories tucked into every corner of the “old gal”, it’s downright impossible to chronicle or rate them all. most were shared with about 17,000 people a night. Still, some remain personal. Like the night my father and I rocked out to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band after my dad took me up on my ‘extra ticket’ offer. Or the time when my wife and I enjoyed a madonna concert partying with some guy named Charles Barkley and his lovely wife maureen. There were magical nights walking backstage with the likes of Patti Labelle, Lionel Richie and Bon Jovi. Even my children filled a few pages of mental scrapbooks by playing soccer on the Spectrum turf and knocking the net for goals, victories and championships. There were skipped school days because of 76ers’ matinee playoffs, emotional tributes to fallen heroes like Pele Lindbergh and John Lennon (courtesy of Springsteen himself). And oh those snowy winter nights when Gene Hart invited you in by saying ‘Come on down folks. The doors are open!’
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PHOTO By ROD SnyDER
2700 S. 18th Street * Philadelphia, PA 19145
Photos courtesy of Comcast-Spectacor PR Department
PRHon the corner Later in life, while transitioning into the Sports and Entertainment industry, I had an awesome opportunity to work in the Spectrum. My first desk in America’s Showplace was nothing more than a plywood plank placed diagonally in a corner. For me, it was the corner office in a corporate high-rise. Because to get to that desk, I had to walk the same halls of the venerable arena that Sinatra, Jagger and Joel walked before me. With just a handful of events remaining, I chose to close out my Spectrum run with my daughter as we recently sat in the sold-out building enjoying Hall and Oates perform. I doubt that she’ll profess total recall from that night years from now. But I hope when she tells the tale -- the sticky floors, the stench of beer and murky haze –she’ll paint a picture of the night she shared the last good time at the Spectrum with her dad and about 17,000 friends. �
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PRHGreenSp ce
IS YOUr
CHILD LeFT INSIDE? by Kerri-Lee HaLKett
Anchor, WTXF FOX 29 and PRH Green Editor photos by PHIL KRAmER
Cash flow isn’t just important to business. It’s everything. PNC knows that cash flow is the lifeblood of your business. That’s why we’re committed to offering cash flow options that help improve your cash position. Our relationship managers will help you develop a total cash flow solution customized to your specific needs.
T he first time I heard the phrase, “No Child Left
Inside,” I thought I heard wrong. Surely, the person was referring to the “No Child Left Behind” Act, which we have all heard much about. I had indeed heard correctly and instantly became curious as to what exactly “NCLI Act” was all about. It turns out that the concept is a wonderful one, one that focuses on programs and funding to get children back outside, uniting them with nature. Children left inside are often the same children battling the childhood obesity epidemic in this country. These children tend to be sedentary, physically under-stimulated or stimulated by the wrong things, like hours parked in front of a television. Recently, I was writing a story for the “FOX 29 News at 10 p.m.” about Michelle Obama’s efforts to wage a war on children’s obesity. While writing the piece, I came across a recent study that found that 1/3 of American children are overweight and 17 percent are obese. I was encouraged by our First Lady’s optimism, “The problem is imminently solvable” through child nutrition programs, improving families’ access to healthy foods and (you guessed it) getting our children outside and moving.
Joanne Baccari (215) 952-8747 Cara Rossi (215) 351-4334 Jason Herbert (215) 339-1583
Business Checking1 | Remote Deposit 2 | Merchant Services 3 | Lines of Credit 4
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1 Banking and lending products and services and bank deposit products are provided by PNC Bank, National Association, Member FDIC 2 Remote Deposit is subject to bank approval. 3 Merchant services are provided by PNC Merchant Services Company and subject to credit approval. 4 All loans and lines of credit are subject to credit approval. ©2010 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. BB PDF 0709-062
LET’S REWIND To get a better perspective of the future, let’s take a look back at our own childhoods. Do you remember what life was like back then? When I pull out my boxes of faded photos from my 70’s childhood in British Columbia, I am transported back to those carefree, long lazy summer days, when the action-packed afternoons turned into exhausted but satisfied evenings. My three siblings and I played with all the neighborhood kids and together we used up every rowhome magazine
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phasize bit of sunlight there was to explore and discover the world around us. On several occasions, we were having so much fun outside, we would forget to eat! There weren’t any cell phones or video games back then but plenty of June bugs and blackberry bushes by the ravine where we hiked, fished and learned about the plants and animals around us. I remember being so tired at the end of the day that we would rest under a neighbor’s plum tree, looking up at the sky through the leaves of the tree. We would pick the ripe plums and munch on them while we figured out what we were going to get into next. All the while, a giddy excitement and sense of freedom built up in the way it does for a child playing outside on a summer’s day. As a news anchor in Philadelphia, I’m a long way from the island I grew up on and as a mother, I am realizing how difficult it can be to inject nature and outdoor experience into our children’s lives. Especially since, like so many of you, I’m raising
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my little boy in an urban setting in one of the biggest cities in the country. However, persistence pays off and it is possible to bring the nature in. Before I share some of my outdoor havens with you, let’s reflect on why getting our children outside and learning about nature is so important.
KIDS NEED NATURE Nature is essential to a child’s growth and development in several profound ways. Research shows children of this generation are losing their ability to connect with the outdoors. There are many reasons for this – one being the immense distractions available to children today. Studies demonstrate that nature is important to children’s intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual and physical development. Outdoor activities nurture creativity, problem-solving and intellectual development in toddlers and younger kids. It is proven that such activities provide self-esteem, self-con-
PRHGreenSp ce fidence, independence and initiative in tweens and teens, creating lasting effects on a child’s life. There is great competition for your child’s time thanks to video games, cell phones, computers and high-tech toys, not to mention hyper-structured schedules packed with school activities, sports, church events and dance classes. According to a recent study, in the past 25 years, children’s free time has decreased by nine hours a week. Nine hours a week! Children who are not challenged to run outside, visit a playground or wildlife refuge often end up eating more, gaining weight and becoming a statistic on the childhood obesity charts.
TRY IT FOR YOURSELF Are you thinking that maybe your kids need to open the door and step outside? Why don’t you show them how to get started? It is actually pretty easy, even if you live in the city. Any playground is full of nature… bugs, birds, dogs etc. However, if you really want to pique the kids’ interest, get more exotic and explore some places that are right outside the Philadelphia city limits. These places have become special places for my family and I hope they will be for yours, too.
WISSAhIcKON PARK Years ago, when I first visited this park, I remember being in awe by the beauty of the towering trees, the massive flowing river and the recreational opportunities the park offered. Bring the whole family: you can wander the upper trails together, check out the only red covered bridge in any major city, climb Livezey Rock or search for the The Indian and Toleration statues tucked away in the dense brush up a steep hill. You’ll see mountain bikers, runners, dog walkers, horseback riders; you will be in good company. Hike to Lover’s Leap, Mom Rinker’s Rock and Devil’s Pool, or sit beside one of the creek’s last remaining dams from the Wissahickon’s important industrial past (and be thankful the trees grew back.) One of the valley’s favorite pastimes is fishing, so bring your pole when you visit. If you’re a climber, try climbing Livezey Rock. Oh, and don’t forget to leave time to grab a bite at the Valley Green Inn - it is comfort food at its best and you can’t beat the view.
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PRHGreenSp ce The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge This is a more recent discovery for me. It was my husband who found it online and introduced it to our family. It is phenomenal and has become fondly referred to by my 5-year-old as “The Wildlife.” Just the term alone has my little guy grinning and the dog’s tail wagging. “The Wildlife” is located in both Philadelphia and Delaware Counties. You have probably driven by it a million times before, since it’s located one mile from Philadelphia International Airport. It was established in 1972 by an act of Congress to protect the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in the state and each time I have gone there, I am always astounded at how many animals we see; snakes, spiders, birds, deer, fox, muskrat, turtles, frogs, fish... it’s a virtual wildlife wonderland. Bring the bikes and enjoy the winding bike trails. Bring a picnic and hike to a secluded meadow to enjoy lunch or just look around and enjoy the countless wildflowers. Near the parking lot, you’ll see the nature center (which has bathrooms); it’s packed with educational displays the whole family will enjoy looking at, even the little ones. Fishing is also permitted in certain areas of the refuge and I’ve seen many a lucky angler walk away with their catch.
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TAKE THE CHALLENGE If you and your children already enjoy the great outdoors, wonderful! I don’t need to tell you the good it is doing the whole lot of you. But if your child is being “Left Inside,” I hope you have found new inspiration to discover the local opportunities that await you and your family. The chance to breathe fresh air, move around, play and discover the living world around us will be something your family will enjoy together and remember for the rest of your lives. There is nothing better than feeling the sun on your face, the wind in your hair and your spirits lifting... it really is a great feeling. I hope to see you and yours “alfresco” soon. ✽
PRHGreenSp ceserve large casinos.
a positive impact on area businesses that can
Schweiker said the internships are part of a system of programs managed by the Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN). The Chamber partners with PYN along with the Philadelphia Academies, Inc. and the United Way of Southeastern PA to recruit employers to hire interns. Its corporate partner is TD Bank.
Schweiker calls the gripes of residents concerned about casino traffic “legitimate.”
pin-point the presumed location of the trapped miners, translating subsurface mine maps to locations at ground surface.
redUce YOUr FederaL IncOme Tax wITh EnERGy hOme ImprOvemenTS “We can’t SAvInG fight “I am a big “Solutions should be in place before the casinos open,” he said. “As soon as possible. Once a plan is provided, it will help calm fears.”
“There are few experts in public service when you face life and death,” Schweiker recounted. “The most important thing you can do is get there quickly and provide support—from emotional to mechanical.
Those solutions include improving
crime but we can believer in executive Delaware Avenue through Mass Transit Your tax bill can beexpansion—a cut by 30 percent of Don’t re-engineering of the just area consider Federal standards. provide more to handle the Stadiums, Casinos costs paid or incurred to modify your pri- Navy ForYard, example, you won’tpresence. want to miss out Asking the positive opportunities and the Waterfront. mary residence, limited to a total of $1,500. on any state incentives. If you don’t owe right questions on the Items to consider include: enough income tax to fully utilize the Federal LOOKING BACK to young scene. 1. Insulation Credits, ask your tax preparer about theYou can’t Prior to joining the Chamber, Schweiker Philadelphians,” served as Pennsylvania’s 2. Exterior windows and doors (including Governor—the possibility of carrying forward the unused have people walking Governor in the nationportion to holdtothea future year. windows,only storm doors and skyInternal Revenue he added.storm position as a direct result of the onateggs. No gray lights) Service Form 5695 is available www.irs. by
DAvID SPITzbERG traffic—not just channeling it—along
September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on As for the Business Privilege Tax of asphalt roofs 3. (6.5% Metal or gov forTom more guidance. the United States when Governor net profits), Schweiker says it’s a burdensome 4. Central air conditioners Ridge resigned to head the Office of tax law and listening to the concerns of his 5. Electric heat pumps David M. Spitzberg has been seen and Homeland Security. membership is paramount at the Chamber. 6. Electric heat pump water heaters heard on various Philadelphia media outIn July 2002, Gov. Schweiker led one of “Our experienced public policy works 7.staff Water heaters using natural gas, oilmine or rescues lets where he has been called upon to the most successful in national in the best interest of the entire business propane provide tax expertise. Mr. Spitzberg has history when he oversaw a 77-hour operation community, whether it is lobbying for tax in Quecreek, Somerset County that saved or nine 8. Natural been quoted referenced in numerous reform or developing relationships betweengas, oil or propane furnaces “When they came up, it was the most trappedmain coal air miners. (and related advanced circulat- national publications and online journals. elected officials and members of the incredible feeling for everyone. We still Chamber,” he said. “We are holding own ingour fans) and hotAtwater He has been listed among “Thetime 100to Most aboutboilers 9 pm on July 24, 2002, a work talk from time…get together on but we can enjoy more with a better tax law.” In some cases, crew the $1,500 limitation Influential CPAs,” “Top 40 Advisors of nine men from the Quecreek Coal the anniversary of to the event. It’s a religious Mine inadvertently drilled into anDuring adjacent experience for many of the families and and primary residence requirement do not Know a Recession,” The 10 “Most ON THE HORIZON abandoned mine, freeing an estimated 50-60 rescuers…the entire town.” Examples Influential CPAs” in the area of Tax and Schweiker said there are threeapply. big fronts that of property include equipmillion gallons of water into the active mine. can enliven South Philadelphia: ment that utilizes: has been NominatedON among the “Top NOTE A PERSONAL The men were trapped in an air pocket within 1. Solar energy to produce electricity 50 IRS Representation Practitioners” Schweiker’s ties tobyPhiladelphia go back to a 48-52-inch coal seam 240 feet underground The Navy Yard, which has more developable his parents - both of 2.Port, Solar energy to for heatmore waterthan (but3not for a CPA Magazine. He may be reached at whom were raised in row days. real estate than Center City; the whose homes, he smiles. His David.Spitzberg@CPAforBusiness.com or father graduated North expansion will create an estimatedswimming 14,000 pool or hot tub) As pumps worked to discharge the Catholic High and LaSalle University. His new jobs; and the Casinos, which 3. would A wind turbine to create electricity David.Spitzberg@CPAforSolar.com. floodwaters from the rapidly filling mine mother graduated Hallahan. They met at increase the city’s tax revenue, provide new shaft, engineers and surveyors worked to Lit Brothers on Market Street and were ��� job opportunities to area residents and have
talk. It’s a military operation. You have to have a crew that can handle pressure.
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Sexy in the City by FeliCe elan written by aliCia Deleo
Sassy but Sweet Spring Flings Philadelphia RowHome’s fashion expert is back! This issue, Phyllis Elan, owner of prominent dress shop Felice Elan Inc., brings us the latest trends for Spring and early Summer. Warmer months mean sassy but sweet, fun and flirty. Fashionistas - inventory your closets and add the following trends to your shopping list! Colors that POP: ❱❱ Bright, bold shades and prints ❱❱ Greens and yellows. Hues of blues are in! Idea: Match a bold-printed mini-dress with platform sandals and finish the look with large sunglasses. Ah, Natural: ❱❱ Get noticed in a crowd with natural-toned fabrics in short skirts and delicate feminine blouses. ❱❱ Camel colors look soft but say sexy. Perfect work look: Pair a neutral tone pencil skirt with a printed top or a deeply romantic ruffled blouse. Floral, Feminine and Flirty: ❱❱ Flower prints are perfect for warm nights. ❱❱ Short flirty skirts with little floral patterns and big, bright colors. Jewelry: ❱❱ The key word this season? A key charm that can be worn as a necklace or bracelet. With or without diamonds. In silver or gold. ❱❱ For your fingers: eye-catching, large flower rings. PROMising Ideas and Evening Wear: From the Runway and Red Carpets: ❱❱ Another level, the fitted black dress. From classic to modern or edgy, elegant lines that can be worn with a suede pump. It’s head to toe perfection! ❱❱ Sexier approach: Gorgeous backed gowns, one shoulder. Strapless, column gowns and the mermaid. Worn by celebrities at the Healthy Hearts for Women fashion show. ❱❱ Watch for Red, cobalt blues, huge floral patterns, pastel hues and iridescent looks. Happy Shopping! Phyllis & Alicia
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Plain Sight
by David W. Cava
W
hen I was young, I enjoyed rummaging through the nooks and crannies of my home. On top of my father’s dresser was a nifty wooden jewelry box that resembled a pirate’s treasure chest. Inside were a few uninteresting pieces of jewelry and scraps of papers that I imagined would lead me to some real treasure. Using my newly acquired treasure map, I made my way through the darkness of my parents’ closets in search of my fortune. Dad had a few pairs of pants, a couple of dress shirts and a pair of black and brown shoes. Mom’s closet was more of a storage closet than a
place for her clothes. She had a few dresses and shoes, but like my father, had only what she needed. There wasn’t much room in their monthly budget for non-essentials so there was plenty of room inside of those closets for me to explore and hide. I’ve recently had to think long and hard about what I do for a living and how my wife and I provide for our family. This wonderful economy has many of us rethinking and retooling our financial present and future. Amazingly, money has this strange way of helping us afford the things we want as well as pay for the things we need. Money may not be able to buy us love, but it definitely helps with everything else. I know that my wife and I will do whatever it takes to provide for our family, but facing the possibility of a complete lifestyle change has us reevaluating our priorities. If only there were maps to help navigate through these difficult times. Remembering my childhood and how my parents sacrificed has me thinking about how I can differentiate between what my family needs and what we want. My siblings and I were given an abundance of what we needed. We had amazing celebrations, plenty of food and countless memories of spending time together. We had everything that was important and we were happy. Those closets and jewelry boxes weren’t crowded with extravagant trinkets or expensive designer brands - not because my parents didn’t like nice things, but because they decided they didn’t need them. Balance seems to be my favorite response to most things of late and I believe I can apply it to how I navigate through my financial future as well. Making adjustments and learning how to get by without so much stuff may actually be a good thing. What I realized is that my parents are the map for which I’ve been searching. By the way they ran their household and raised their family, my parents inadvertently left behind a trail of breadcrumbs for me to follow. They did what they could with what they had. We grew up with the love of family and friends all around us. And although I didn’t understand it at the time, that love and those experiences were more precious than any ‘thing’ purchased in a store. Without the need of a dusty old map, my parents found their treasure in the family. It definitely helps ease the stress of this transition knowing that at the end of the day, my treasure is and always will be the family, as well. �
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CRime tHRilleR W
by lauRen goRDon
hen you live in the city, corner stores, basketball courts and steak shops are more than just places. They are your landmarks. Where you go for a pack of smokes or a cold soda. Where memories live. Keith Gilman, a 15-year Haverford cop, chose Philadelphia as the setting for his debut crime novel Father’s Day. Never a resident gohomephilly.com
himself, Gilman says he spent so much time here – working with former Philly cops and studying the neighborhood – that the city “adopted” him. Father’s Day was released this past spring by Minotaur Books, a division of St. Martin’s Press. The novel’s publication was Gilman’s prize for winning a prestigious writing competition – the 2007 St. Martin’s Press/ Private Eye
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Writers Association Best First Private Eye Novel contest. If you like the kind of read where the good guy gets the girl and rides off into the sunset, skip this one. Gilman’s stories are dark. His characters struggle with their own morality. They are comfortable with chaos and betrayal. Gilman’s noir protagonist Lou Kline is an ex-cop following in his father’s footsteps turned private investigator. He returns to Philadelphia after a failed marriage and a dark past. As he searches these familiar streets for an old friend’s daughter, Lou digs up parts of his own buried past. A drinker, a smoker and a cynical man driven by his own moral compass to do well no matter how many punches she throws, Lou defends his beloved Philadelphia fiercely. Gilman admits to the similarities that he shares with his character, especially the way they view the world. “I don’t know how well I do characters,” Gilman confesses, “and it’s the single most important factor to me. People have a certain expectation for these types of characters because they live by a code. They aren’t perfect but they have a camaraderie that keeps them doing the right thing.”
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Unlike his main character, Gilman was not a part of the family cop dynasty that so many cops grow into. Writing was always his first passion. He claims that asking him if he always wanted to be a writer is like asking a cop if he always wanted to be a cop. For Gilman, the line of duty was something he just fell into. “They’ve all been very supportive,” says Gilman of his fellow police officers. “Cops are cops, though. They are teasers and bust on me a lot. They call me Shakespeare.” In Father’s Day, Gilman delivers layer after layer of pure emotion for readers to peel away. Every sentence puts the reader to work. Every chapter brings you one step closer to knowing his not-so-perfect family. “Family. Family is the heart of emotion,” Gilman explains. “I want to dig deep with these novels and I need to hit home with them. And when you dig into the family, that really is where you are going. That’s about as deep as you can go.” Gilman is already working on the sequel. “My ultimate goal is to be paid full time to write,” Gilman hopes. “I have a very organic style. For me, the starting point and an ending point are the only definitive things. And I am nowhere near being done with Lou Klein or any of the characters that appear in Father’s Day.” � rowhome magazine
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PRHheaLTh
healthy Weight by Dr. Richard Dittrich What is a healthy weight?
by the damaged area of the brain can’t work properly. Can you prevent a stroke? After a stroke, you are at risk for having another one. You can make some important lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of stroke and improve your overall health. These include eating a heart-healthy diet that includes plenty of fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, high-fiber breads and staying at a healthy weight.
What is obesity?
High blood pressure
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Obesity is a chronic disease that requires a lifelong treatment. Obesity is a disease process with a physiological cause like diabetes or hypertension. It is not a result of “weakness” or “lack of willpower”on the part of the patient.
Why pay attention to your weight?
Staying at a healthy weight can prevent serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.
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Heart disease remains a leading killer in America, but even if you have a family history, heart disease and heart attacks are not inevitable. A healthy diet, regular exercise, cholesterol-lowering drugs and lifesaving surgeries can reduce your risk of having—or dying from—a heart attack.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts. Without blood and the oxygen it carries, part of the brain starts to die. The part of the body controlled gohomephilly.com
Blood pressure is a measure of how hard the blood pushes against the walls of your arteries as it moves through your body. It’s normal for blood pressure to go up and down throughout the day, but if it stays up, you have high blood pressure (hypertension).
What causes high blood pressure?
In most cases, doctors can’t point to the exact cause. But several things are known to raise blood pressure including age, weight, family history, excessive alcohol and salt.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong disease that affects the way your body uses food for energy. The disease develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas cannot make enough insulin, which causes high blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and often results from being overweight and physically inactive. It can be prevented or at least delayed by maintaining a healthy body weight. Treatment focuses on keeping blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure at safe levels.
CENTER FOR MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS There are several weight loss options available through the Center for Medical Weight Loss—a medically supervised program with nutritional products and strategies available only to physicians. Dr. Richard Dittrich will review your overall health, medications and past weight loss programs to create a personalized weight loss plan to help you lose weight quickly, safely, and most importantly, to keep it off permanently. The Center offers three basic weight loss options. Each begins with an in-depth evaluation that includes a body composition analysis that measures your body’s water, muscle and fat compositions. It also helps to provide a formula to predict the maximum amount of weight you will be able to lose safely over a specific period of time. All food necessary for your individual program will be supplied to you at your weekly visit and is included in the cost of the program. The Center also offers programs that include appetite suppressants and lipo-B injections. The program selected for you depends on how much weight you want to lose. It will put you in charge of your eating and exercise routines and teach you how to manage food temptations. As you begin to lose weight, not only will you feel better about your appearance, you will be on the road to better health. Call 215.465.1183 to schedule an appointment or visit www.centerformedicalweightloss.com. We are excited to announce that Danielle Dittrich has joined our practice. Danielle is a certified nurse practitioner in women’s health. She graduated from Vanderbilt University and spent the last three months starting a women’s health screening program in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. She will be seeing patients in both Philadelphia and Voorhees, NJ offices. Please call to schedule an appointment for yourself, your daughters, your friends and anyone who would prefer to see a female practitioner. 215-465-3000 or 856-435-9090.
“VOTED BEST OF PHILLY”
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Dr. Richard Dittrich has been practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology in the South Philadelphia area for 25 years. He has been an active member of the staff at Methodist Hospital and served as the Chief of Gynecology. Dr. Dittrich is also a staff physician at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and a member of their faculty. He is a member of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Pennsylvania Colposcopy Society, and the Philadelphia Medical Society. He practices gynecology at 1313 Wolf Street and also has an office in Voorhees, NJ. Dr Dittrich is now offering a wide variety of Wellness Programs to enhance your outer beauty and renew your body. Schedule a consult for laser hair removal, IPL for the face and veins and/or Botox, Radiesse or Juvederm injections. We currently have available a variety of Omega-3 nutraceuticals formulated for every life stage. In the very near future, we will be adding an extensive weight loss program to our services. Please visit our website at www.wellnesscenterpa.com to learn even more.
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reaL PeoPLe. reaL STorieS.
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said to him, “Would I not give you a quality gift – and not a piece of junk?” Fran Cardella smiles when she speaks about the greatest gift one can give another – a chance to live life normally and in good health. Fran should know. She gave her husband a kidney. Fran and Tom Cardella have been married for more than 45 years. They are close. Once you meet them, you know they are a perfect match. So when Tom found out he needed a kidney, where else would he turn but to – as it turned out – his perfect physical match? The physician monitoring Tom didn’t like some of his test results. His
creatinine levels (abnormally high levels of creatinine warn of possible malfunction or failure of the kidneys) were consistently elevated. Fran joined Tom at his next appointment with nephrologist Dr. James F. Burke. “The doctor was talking in numbers. I asked, ‘What does it all mean?’ How worried do we need to be?” ”He needs a kidney transplant. It’s unavoidable,” he answered. “We were speechless. And I’m never speechless,” Fran smiled. Tom had a year – maybe 18 months – before he would need to go on dialysis—a grueling and debilitating procedure—and something the Cardellas wanted to avoid. But the waiting list for kidneys can be up to five years or longer.
“Fran and Tom Cardella have been married for more than 45 years. They are close. Once you meet them, you know they are a perfect match. So when Tom found out he needed a kidney, where else would he turn but to – as it turned out – his perfect physical match?”
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Fran immediately volunteered to be the donor. Identical twins offer the best chance for compatibility for any organ donation. But with the advancement in anti-rejection medications and surgical techniques, living kidney donors have the best track record of all forms of donation. Statistics from the Organ Procurement and Transplant Network show that a kidney donated from living donors still functions in 96 percent of cases after one year; 81 percent of cases after five years; and 58 percent of cases after 10 years. “My wife was determined that she had worked it out that if she was not compatible with me, she wanted to be matched up with someone else in a group (who she would be compatible with) hoping that another match could be found. She was willing to go through that kind of grouping so she could get a kidney for me,” Tom remembered. Testing continued up until almost the day of the transplant. After a scare of delay (due to a false positive on one of the tests), the transplant took place at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. It could not have gone smoother. The fact that Fran’s kidney was slightly smaller than Tom’s helped in the transplant, as well. Ironically (or sentimentally), the transplant took place in May – just a few days removed from their wedding anniversary. “Now that’s togetherness,” Tom added. Both Tom and Fran have high praise for the team at Jefferson. “They were tremendously informative and kept us involved every step of the way,” Tom said. The Cardellas say they were comforted by the fact that everyone on the team was familiar with their case. From Tom’s transplant surgeon Dr. Warren Maley to Fran’s transplant surgeon Dr. Adam Frank to Nephrology nurses Karen O’Neill and Linda Wright to Cheryl Boyd, MSW, the social worker for the Kidney Transplant Team who provides social and emotional support to transplant patients, living donors and their families. Additionally, Tom still sees Dr. Burke while Fran keeps her appointments with nephrologist Dr. Pooja Singh. “It’s very serious surgery but very successful. For a donor, you can function very well on one kidney,” Fran said. “Surgery is laparoscopic so you don’t have the big healing.” rowhome magazine
| 81
P RHHEALTH
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“But I think my bikini days are gone.” Tom said before the surgery, “I was still pushing myself but doing it at half speed. Everything became an effort, even climbing the stairs. My exercise is taking long walks – but I couldn’t do it. But now, it’s amazing. The energy level. I’ve lost weight. This is as good as I’ve felt in years.” The surgery and recovery are actually harder on the organ donor than on the recipient, Fran explained. That’s why Tom and Fran stayed in Center City before and after the surgery as they both recovered. They said it helped with post-op follow-ups and testing. “It’s Incredible – an absolutely incredible thing – that if for every serious illness we had something like this that could be done,” Fran said. “The strides that have been made to save a person’s life -- incredible.” For Tom, life is back as it was before the transplant. There are no real restrictions on diet (except common sense), he gets regular exercise and takes the required medications. “This is the best I’ve felt in years,” he says again. He continues to work as well as write a weekly column and co-host an Eagles talk show during football season on WBCB out of Levittown. Fran has also made a full recovery. She continues to work and looks after Tom, her children and grandchildren. “We hope they (medical science) continue to come up with advances and more people will consider being donors --so that less people will have to die waiting for a kidney,” Tom said. Fran also said the Cardellas’ decision opened up a lot of ‘Would you do that for me’ questions for married couples. She said a lot of people aren’t answering. The Cardellas hope their story will inspire others to get involved and become organ donors. What’s next for Tom and Fran Cardella? “We’re looking forward to the future.” A future together. In spirit. And body. �
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PRHTiPS From The ProS
LegaL
& RDeR LaWo full tort? Limited tort? What’s the difference?
by FRANk C. DEPASquALE JR., ESquIRE
Q: What is the difference between limited tort and full tort automobile insurance coverage?
A: Limited tort coverage, although slightly cheaper, greatly limits you
and your family’s right to sue for injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Limited tort coverage only allows an individual to make a recovery for medical and other out-of-pocket expenses but not for pain and suffering unless the injuries are serious. Insurance carriers all too often deny claims for pain and suffering to individuals with limited tort coverage. Full tort coverage does not restrict your right to sue and allows you and your family to seek full compensation for all damages including pain and suffering. I cannot stress enough that all Pennsylvania residents should purchase full tort coverage.
Q: My father is a Korean War Veteran. Although fortunately not injured in battle, is he still eligible for a VA pension?
A: Yes, so long as your parents’ net worth is less than $80,000 (excluding their home) and his annual income from any source (including social security and other pensions) does not exceed $14,643.00 or $22,113.00 if he is unable to care for himself. Q: I am recently divorced and want to change my name back to my maiden name. Can it be done in Philadelphia? A: Yes. A Petition has to be filed with the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas with notice to your ex-spouse.
Mr. DePasquale was again recognized by his peers as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for 2010. He heads DePasquale Law Offices, 2332-34 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145. P: 215.755.4410. Email: frank@ depasquale-law.com or visit www.depasquale-law.com
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rowhome magazine
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P RHSports 2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
CYO Coaches score high points by Tony Santini photo by Hector Valentin
F
or many young girls within our “river to river” community, their first exposure to athletic competition comes by way of participation in the well-organized programs of the Philadelphia Catholic Youth Organization (CYO). Under the tutelage of some very talented and dedicated coaches, these young ladies learn how to play the game and the true meaning of sportsmanship while continually displaying respect for their teammates, opponents, coaches and officials. While many of these student athletes progress no further than the grade school level of competition, some go on to higher levels and achieve college scholarships based on athletic ability honed in local CYO sports programs. Although every CYO coach should be commended for the job they do, this salute to service in the community focuses on a few of the women coaches who have been volunteering their time for 10, 20, even 30 years! In fact, some of the current CYO coaches throughout the region played for these featured coaches in years past. PRH salutes these volunteer coaches for their ability, their knowledge of the game and their commitment to young athletes throughout the region. ✽
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18 84 | ROWHOME rowhomeMAGAZINE magazine www.gohomephilly.com gohomephilly.com
Name:
Lori Brown
Personal stats:
Married to Mike for 26 years. 4 Children: Ashley, 25, Bubba, 23, Mandy, 17, Shane, 14
Current coaching assignments:
Sacred Heart Varsity Girls Basketball Head coach Sacred Heart JV Girls Basketball Assistant Coach
Years coaching:
15
Sports coached and level:
7th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball; 7th & 8th Grade Girls Softball
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
High School Varsity Basketball
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Allison Nelson, Division III College Basketball
Your mentors:
My father Charles Kyser
Best coaching memory:
Girls CYO Basketball Championship 2002
Day Job:
Legal Assistant
Elementary school you attended:
Woodbury Heights
High school you attended:
Gateway Regional
Best friends growing up:
Terry Brown, Janet Curry
What I miss most about being a kid:
Playing basketball and softball all day long
Name:
Cathy Del Ciotto
Personal Stats:
Single
Current coaching assignments:
t. Nick’s - Head Coach, Volleyball; Assistant Coach, Basketball and Softball; SS. NeumannS Goretti - Head Coach, Woman’s Volleyball
Years coaching:
18
Sports coached and level:
High school JV Softball and Soccer; 7th & 8th Grade Soccer
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
Division I Softball for 2 years at La Salle University
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Andrea Clark, basketball, Neumann University; Sara Kelly, Soccer/Softball, Neumann University
Your mentors:
I was fortunate to have many good coaches and teammates growing up. I like to think that I took something positive from each of them.
Best coaching memory:
Varsity CYO Girls Basketball team rallied behind a teammate to help her achieve the points necessary to reach 100 points for her elementary school basketball career.
Day Job:
Technical Assistant, Social Security Administration
Elementary school you attended:
St. Nicholas of Tolentine
High school you attended:
St. Maria Goretti
Corner hang:
We didn’t “hang”, we “played” on 10th & Fernon.
Best friends growing up:
Adeline Walters, Donna Ferrer and Marie Negro
What I miss most about being a kid:
Summers off!
Favorite South Philly memory:
he Mummers Parade and shopping at the Italian Market. (Mom shopped, kids went to the T playground.)
Favorite Kid TV Show growing up:
Looney Tunes cartoons, comedies and history shows
Name:
Susan Dean
Personal stats:
Single
Current coaching assignment:
Head Coach, St. Gabriel’s CYO Varsity Girls Basketball
Years coaching:
20
Sports coached and level:
Basketball, grades 7th & 8th
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
Played Division I Basketball at St. Joseph’s University
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Jill Henry and Carlene Hightower, college basketball
Your mentors:
My Mom, my sister Helen and Bobbie Gormley-Rice, former coach at St. Gabriel’s
Best coaching memory:
Too many to list. Seeing the girls improve each year from Day 1
Day Job:
Jefferson Hospital Family Medicine Receptionist
Elementary school you attended:
St. Gabriel’s
High School you attended:
St. Maria Goretti
Corner hang:
29th & Tasker, Lanier Playground
Best friends growing up:
Chrissy Dulisse and Paula Malandro
What I miss most about being a kid:
Snow days from school!
Favorite South Philly memory:
Growing up in Grays Ferry and the wonderful people who live there
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P RHSports
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gohomephilly.com
Kayla Glendening
Personal stats:
Single
Current coaching assignments:
St. Nick’s CYO JV Girls Basketball; Varsity Girls Softball
Total years coaching:
5
Sports coached and level:
Girls basketball, 5th & 6th grade; Girls softball, 7th & 8th Grade
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
arsity softball for Girard Academic Music V Program (GAMP). Was named first team AllPublic during my senior year.
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
rankiann Cavaliere currently plays on SS. F Neumann-Goretti’s Girls Basketball team.
Your mentors:
Current St. Nick’s CYO coaches Trish Pizzo and Marie DiStefano.
Best coaching memory:
First time I was asked for advice by a former player. It felt good to know that she valued my opinion.
Day Job:
Substitute Teacher
Elementary School you attended:
St. Nicholas of Tolentine
High School you attended:
GAMP
Corner hang:
10th & Mifflin
Best friends growing up:
Jade Rota, Chrissy Forline, Michelle Sheridan, Kaitlin Forline and Tara Gurscik
What I miss most about being a kid:
Playing sports for the school team
Favorite South Philly memory:
Going to Broad Street on New Year’s Day with my friends to watch the Mummer’s Parade
Favorite Kid TV Show growing up:
Full House
SALUTE TO SERVICE
2010
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Name:
Name:
Rosemary McGrory
Personal stats:
Single
Current coaching assignments:
o-Head Coach, Our Lady of Mount Carmel (OLMC) School C CYO Girls Varsity and Junior Varsity Basketball
Total years coaching:
31
Sports coached and level:
Girls basketball and softball, Grades 5-12; Instructional Basketball, grades 3-5.
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
ember of the St. Maria Goretti High School Basketball Team M that won the Catholic League Championship in 1976. Member of the St. Maria Goretti High School Softball Team
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
I ’ve coached a number of young ladies who have played basketball in college at the Division II, Division III or community college levels.
Your mentors:
My Mom and Dad. My twin sister Maryann is my main coaching mentor.
Best coaching memory:
here are so many to recall. In addition to the ones my sister T mentioned, we both share a special memory of the time when one of our former players, who survived life threatening injuries as a 6th grader, came back to play for us as an 8th grader and scored a basket.
Day Job:
Maintenance Management Assistant at Independence National Historical Park
Elementary school you attended:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
High school you attended:
St. Maria Goretti
Corner hang:
I spent a lot of time playing sports at Burke Playground, 2nd & Jackson, Murphy Recreation Center, 4th & Shunk, and in the Sharswood schoolyard.
Best friend growing up:
My twin sister Maryann
What I miss most about being a kid:
Playing in the snow
Favorite Kid TV Show growing
Scooby Doo
Name:
Marie DiStefano
Personal stats:
Married to Michael DiStefano, 26 years. 2 Children: Lisa, 24, and Krissy, 21
Current coaching assignments:
Assistant Varsity Soccer Coach, SS. NeumannGoretti; Head coach, St. Nick’s Softball and JV Basketball; South Philly’s Women Softball League Commissioner
Total years coaching:
20
Sports coached and level:
High School Varsity Soccer; 7th & 8th Grade Softball, 5th & 6th Grade Basketball; T-Ball, Softball, Basketball and Soccer, Grades 2-8
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
High School
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Adria Vitale played soccer for four years at Lock Haven University and also was Assistant Soccer Coach at Temple University. Sara Kelly currently plays soccer and softball for Neumann University. Nica Meccariell currently plays soccer for Neumann University.
Your mentors:
Roe Kelly, Cathy DelCiotto, Roe Ianieri and Trish Pizzo have all been an integral part of my coaching career.
Best coaching memory:
One of my 5th grade basketball players tragically lost her mother. During the following game, this player scored her first basket. There certainly was an Angel on the court that night!
Day Job:
Sales Associate, Majestic Clubhouse Store at Citizens Bank Park
Elementary school you attended:
Stephen Girard
High school you attended:
Southwark (South Philadelphia High School)
Corner hang:
29th & Snyder
Best friends growing up:
Doreen Badolato and Franny Jamack
What I miss most about being a kid:
The simple things in life – playing sports and being free of responsibilities.
Favorite South Philly memory:
May 19th, 1974 - Flyers win their first Stanley Cup and Philly holds a parade for the Champs! Phillies World Championship celebration of 1980 and Untitled-1 1 2008 are close behind.
Favorite Kid TV Show growing up:
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rowhome magazine
| 87
CIRO
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| rowhome magazine
P RHSports
Name:
Maureen Fiocca
Personal stats:
Was happily married for 26 years to my husband George, who recently passed away. Four great kids: George III, 23; Brian, 18; Gregory, 17; and Maureen, 15
Current coaching assignment:
Sacred Heart CYO JV Girls Basketball
Total years coaching:
6
Sports coached and level:
Girls Basketball, Grades 5 through 8
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
CYO High School Basketball - I played for Mt. Carmel when our 12th grade team went 19-0 during the season and won the Mid-Atlantic Tri-State Championship. That team was coached by two of the best current OLMC Girls coaches Maryann and Rosemary McGrory.
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Since I only started coaching six years ago, I’d have to say my daughter Maureen, who is currently one of the top scorers on the SS. Neumann-Goretti Varsity Girls Basketball team.
Your mentors:
My parents John and Theresa Dougherty, hard-working Irish-Catholics, who instilled in me the importance of family, Church and community. On a coaching level, Lillian and Smokey O’Connell and Maryann and Rosemary McGrory.
Best coaching memory:
he first time I walked into the EOM gym and saw the Championship Banners for two Sacred Heart T teams with three Fiocca names on them.
Day Job:
Judicial staff employee
Elementary school you attended:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
High school you attended:
St. Maria Goretti
Corner hang:
Orkney & Ritner
Best friends growing up:
Susan Carr Dumond, Denise Gaul, Mary Boccasini.
What I miss most about being a kid:
No worries!
Favorite South Philly memory:
I would need a whole issue of PRH to respond to this question!
Favorite TV Show growing up:
M*A*S*H*
Name:
Maryann McGrory
Personal Stats:
Single
Current coaching assignments:
o-Head Coach, Our Lady of Mount Carmel (OLMC) Grade School CYO Girls Varsity and Junior Varsity C Basketball
Total years coaching:
33
Sports coached and level:
Girls basketball and softball, Grades 5-12; Instructional Basketball, grades 3-5
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
ember of the St. Maria Goretti High School Basketball Team that won the Catholic League M Championship in 1976. Member of the St. Maria Goretti High School Softball Team. Named to the First Team All-Catholic in junior and senior years.
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
I ’ve coached a number of girls who have gone on to play basketball in college at the Division II, Division III or community college levels.
Your mentors:
y mentors were my Mom and Dad. As for my coaching career, I would say my sister Rosemary M because we work well together and are able to discuss different ideas with each other.
Best coaching memory:
y involvement with Roseann and Joe Kirlin of the Katie Kirlin Fund. Together, we have arranged M to have our 7th and 8th girls play basketball in wheelchairs against the Katie’s Komets Wheelchair Basketball team at the Carousel House for the last 10 years. Also, coaching the OLMC High School Girls CYO team that went undefeated and won the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Championship and went on to win the Middle Atlantic States Tournament Championship.
Day Job:
Administrative Assistant for Undergraduate Records in the College of Education at Temple University
Elementary school you attended:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
High school you attended:
St. Maria Goretti
Corner hang:
I spent a lot of time playing sports at Burke Playground at 2nd & Jackson, Murphy Recreation Center, 4th & Shunk and in the Sharswood schoolyard.
Best friend growing up:
My twin sister Rosemary.
What I miss most about being a kid:
Having summers off!
gohomephilly.com
Name:
Trish Pizzo
Personal stats:
Married for 20 years to Mike Pizzo. 2 children: Shane, 18; Tyler, 12
Current coaching assignments:
t. Nick’s Varsity CYO Girls Basketball Coach; Assistant Coach S for Varsity Girls Volleyball and Softball; St. Nick’s Athletic Director
Total years coaching:
21
Sports coached and level:
Coached Girl’s basketball, volleyball, softball and co-ed Soccer
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
layed varsity basketball, softball, volleyball and field hockey P in high school
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Andrea Clark, basketball, Neumann University; Sara Kelly, soccer/softball, Neumann University
Your mentors:
anny Parrillo taught me the most about coaching children and D Bernadette Grimditch taught me a lot about dealing with them.
Best coaching memory:
oaching St. Nick’s Girls at the NBA All-Star Jam Session. A C while ago, we had a player whose younger sister, Marianna, had Downs Syndrome. The team included her in everything they did at the practices and she came to every game. During one particular game, I called the team together for pre-game instructions. One player stopped my instructions and then ran across the court to the bleachers to get Marianna and bring her into the huddle, then told me to continue. Talk about getting choked up!
Day Job:
8th grade teacher at St. Nicholas of Tolentine
Elementary school you attended:
St. Martin of Tours (Northeast Philly)
High school you attended:
Melrose Academy
Corner hang:
Benner & Oakland (Northeast Philly)
Best friends growing up:
Linda Russo, Joann Livingston and Lori Campbell
What I miss most about being a kid:
anging out with my friends and playing ball outside all day and H night…didn’t matter what sport it was!
Favorite South Philly memory:
Being on Broad Street when the Phillies won the Championship in 2008
Favorite Kid TV Show growing up:
The Wonderful World of Disney
Name:
Lynn West
Personal stats:
arried to Mike West. Two wonderful daughters: Janae M Dabbundo, 17; Sammi Dabbundo, 10 , and stepson Austin, 18
Current coaching assignment:
Head Coach, St. Richard’s CYO Girls Varsity Basketball
Total years coaching:
23 (10 years at St. Monica’s; 13 years at St. Richard’s)
Sports coached and level:
Basketball, 7th & 8th Grade
Highest level of personal athletic achievement:
ompleting the Marine Corp Marathon, 26 miles of grueling C pain, but it was worth it!
Student-athlete you coached who advanced the furthest:
Elizabeth Berry, Drexel University.
Currently coaching five potential college prospects:
Ericka Brown, Alexis Santarelli, Allison Grubb, Marlena Arrigale and Sammi Dabbundo who all play AAU basketball.
Your mentors:
everend Frances Dreger was my basketball coach from 5th R through 11th grade. He was a great teacher of the game and also a great mentor.
Best coaching memory:
oseann Cascia shooting the ball at the buzzer and hitting a R 3-point shot to win a game over St. Gabe’s for a playoff spot
Day Job:
Director of Operations at the Rothman Institute
Elementary school you attended:
St. Monica’s
High school you attended:
St. Monica Business School
Corner hang:
16th & Shunk, but typically, always inside the gym!
Best friends growing Up:
Denise Maiale and Jane McKain
What I miss most about being a kid:
I miss playing stickball on the corner of Rosewood & Oregon with all the boys on my block. More recently, after trying to play in an adult basketball league at age 47, I would say that I miss my legs and speed.
Favorite South Philly memory:
Going to Millie’s on 15th & Shunk for a milkshake and a cheeseburger after every game
Favorite Kid TV Show growing up:
The Brady Bunch
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rowhome magazine
| 89
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2010
SALUTE TO SERVICE
Name:
Perry (Petrone) Petrongola
Occupation:
District Lottery Representative, Pennsylvania State Lottery
Part-Time Avocation:
Sports Official: Baseball, Basketball & Football
Affiliations:
atholic Youth Organization (CYO); Grade School Sports C Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA); High School Sports Association of Registered Conference Officials (ARCO)
Years Officiating:
Baseball (20); Basketball (15); Football (10)
Personal Stats:
Married to Meg, 33 years. 2 children: Natalie, Carly
Elementary School:
St. Monica’s
High School:
South Philadelphia High School
Corner Hang:
16th & Jackson
Best Friend Growing Up:
All my friends were the best but the one who comes to mind is the one who got me started in officiating sports, Danny Parillo!
What I miss most about being a kid:
Summer break from school and hanging in the layground at 16th & Jackson, all day and night, p playing half-ball.
Favorite South Philly Memory:
Flyers winning the Stanley Cup and winning the World Championship!
Best athlete I’ve seen play while officiating:
Kevin Lubanski, Outfielder, Kennedy-Kendrick High School
What I like best about officiating:
o matter how long you’ve been officiating or how N good you think you are at doing it, you can always learn something new.
gohomephilly.com
PRHLIFE Banjo Bob
(continued from page 17)
Criminal Defense • Family Law Personal Injury • Real Estate Veteran Affairs 2332-34 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 Office: 215.755.9000 Fax: 215.755.4110 agambone@gambone-law.com Pfenninger loves meeting people, especially fellow seniors and Marines. As an elderly man drives past, he gives the former sergeant a salute. Pfenninger, saluting in return, proudly declares “Semper Fi.” Although he’s been “plucking” for about 20 years, the banjo isn’t the only instrument he plays. As a kid growing up in New Jersey, Pfenninger took violin lessons from his town barber, enabling him to later teach himself the banjo. He also plays the harmonica and mandolin. Despite his knack for music, Pfenninger used his hands to make more than just music. He loved to box and in 1957, became the middleweight champ of the Marine Corps. “I was a fighter,” he says with pride as he shows off his certificate. Regardless of all that he has accomplished during his lifetime, he remains modest and genuinely touched that people of South Philly appreciate him. When Banjo Bob goes out to play in the morning, he stations himself outside of Dunkin’ Donuts. When the sun shifts in the afternoon, he moves down across from Oregon Windows. Pfenninger says he plays in the same location because that’s where the locals expect to see him. He says that he’s grown to be part of the community and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Over the years, Pfenninger has played throughout Philly – outside of the old University Medical Center and along South Street – but he’s decided that here on Oregon Avenue “is where I want to stay.”. ✽
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P RHSCHOOLYARD
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Philadelphia’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program promises to halt urban blight and create new jobs for housing workers
Rebuilding City neighborhoods one home by Lisa Picozzi
A
select group of Philadelphia neighborhoods is getting some muchneeded protection against the housing market’s economic fallout. The support comes in the form of a nearly $20 million federal- and state-funded stimulus program called the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), which promises to provide big payoffs for both home owners and housing workers alike. The program, which was developed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is funded through the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and is overseen by the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia (RDA). Under this plan’s guidelines, a group of approved developers will receive up to $20,000 following each successful purchase, renovation and sale of a foreclosed property. The RDA works with lenders to negotiate a reduced price for these targeted properties, which are currently unoccupied in otherwise stable neighborhoods in the city. The developers are then required to purchase, rehab and sell them at a reasonable price to qualified buyers who will occupy the homes as their primary residences. To be approved, homebuyers gohomephilly.com
at a time
must have an income that is no greater than 120 percent of the area median income – this equates to $65,400 for a single buyer and $93,360 for a household of four. They must also complete eight hours of housing counseling. In all, it is predicted that 200 homes will be renovated and 140 construction jobs will be created before the program is finished. “Philadelphia has responded to the national housing crisis with an innovative program to renovate homes in neighborhoods,” explains Terry Gillen, RDA Executive Director. “Every time we fix up a house, we are keeping the neighborhood strong. At the Redevelopment Authority, we are doing our part to strengthen neighborhoods and create jobs.” To select the neighborhoods that were targeted by this program, the City’s Office of Housing and Community Development identified those that had the highest foreclosure rates and the highest number of sub-prime (so-called “predatory”) loans, as well as those that had taken the biggest hit in home values due to vacant and foreclosed homes. The idea was to identify areas where urban blight could be squelched before it had a chance to take hold. ✽
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According to the City of Philadelphia’s website, the NSP program hopes to accomplish four important goals: Reducing Blight: “Every time a house is rehabbed, NSP eliminates a blighted property in a neighborhood, preventing further neighborhood deterioration. Research by the Wharton School has found that a single blighted property decreases the value of each surrounding property by more than $3,000 Providing Jobs: “The program provides construction jobs for workers who are hired by the developer – providing much-needed employment in a slow economy.” Improving the Accessibility of the Housing Stock: “NSP provides a homeowner with a renovated home in a neighborhood of their choice.” Sustaining Small Business: “The program provides a $20,000 developer fee to the CDC or the developer in charge of the project – giving them an extra source of operating income during this recession.” Source: cityofphiladelphia.wordpress.com Mayor Michael Nutter is solidly behind the NSP program. In December 2009, he visited the first completed rowhome on Wellington Street in Northeast Philadelphia’s Mayfair section, and hailed the program as one of hope for the city. “Today, we celebrate the beginning of a stimulus program that is eliminating vacancy in our neighborhoods and creating stimulus jobs,” Nutter stated. “This block has one less vacant house and a new homeowner has a new place to live in this neighborhood.” Diane Menke, whose development company is an approved NSP developer and who also is a principal at design-to-build contractor Myers Constructs, Inc., echoes the Mayor’s sentiments: “We believe in the stabilizing, positive community effect of home ownership. We get fired up about it, in fact,” she explains. “We all feel privileged to be able to bring new homeowners to great remodeled homes in Philly’s neighborhoods.” Third in a series brought to you by Philadelphia MomsLikeMe.com. Join the conversation today.
rowhome magazine
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Residential
Real estate
o you need to run around the block five times to get that energy out?” Rachel Loeper asks a young boy standing on the front step. Loeper is the program director of Mighty Writers, a non-profit that aims to improve the writing skills of students ages 5 to 17. The young boy to whom she speaks is one of 50 students enrolled. Like most of his peers and Loeper herself, the young writer is a bundle of energy. According to Loeper, she started holding meet and greets with people interested in starting a
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gohomephilly.com
project like Dave Egger’s 826 Valencia, a writing center that helps students ages 8-18 develop writing skills. In the meantime, Loeper quit her job in educational technology and took a position substitute teaching at Universal Institute Charter School in South Philadelphia. That’s when someone handed her Tim Whitaker’s business card. Whitaker, a former editor of Philadelphia Weekly, was looking to start a similar project. The two met “and talked for about two weeks straight and eventually just kind of merged our forces,” Loeper says, sitting at a table in the reception area at the Mighty Writers headquarters. At the time, Loeper had between 50 and 100 volunteers signed on when Universal Institute, through its parent organization Universal Companies, offered Loeper the 1501 Christian Street storefront that was once the location for an “Obama for President” effort. “Tim had funding for a year and a board of directors and a logo that I loved and we just took off running. So after meeting in April, we opened July 1st. We had 12 workshops last summer and then the afterschool workshop started in the fall,” Loeper says. Mighty Writers is open Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. for the after-school program, during which kids do homework before opening their red folders and working on their writing. On Sundays, from 3 to 6 p.m., Mighty Writers is open for tutoring and the community is welcome to walk in. There are also workshops, hosted after 6 p.m. on weekdays and between 1 and 4 p.m. on Sundays. These workshops include “Graphic Memoirs,” “Writing Like a Ninja” and “Girl Power Poetry.” Now, Loeper says the hope is to expand with a second location in West Philly. The group is always looking for people who want to join the list of 300 volunteers or who want to teach workshops to some talented students and community members! ✽
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PRESSED PRH
Dorette Rota Jackson
rowhome
ghostwriter by Dorette rota Jackson
In case you’re wondering, I have a ghostwriter. Her name is Dawn Rhoades. My sister decided that Facebook is a great way to connect with old friends. While I write stories on my laptop, Dawn puts herself in charge of viral marketing. I watch her from the corner of my eye. She seems intent as she goes about facebooking friends from near and far. Says it opened up a whole new world to her. She decided she’d take a crack at creating a RowHome Magazine fan page. ‘What’s your email address?’ she hollers over. I answer her. ‘I need your password.’ Again. I answer. A few hours later, I attempt to log onto my Facebook page. Three different sites pop up. ‘Dawn, what did you do with my email address and password?’ I ask, already knowing the answer. ‘I created our very own facebook page. I posted fun photos and now we can log onto the site and find all of our friends and family.’ I peruse the site. It’s tagged ‘Dorette RowHome.’ Not to be confused with the ‘Dorette Rota Jackson’ site. Or the ‘Dorette Dawn RowHome’ site. Or the ‘RowHome Magazine’ site. If looks could kill, she’d be on ice.
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‘Dawn. What did you do with my password?’ I ask again. ‘Nothing,’ she snaps. ‘I’m networking.’ Problem is, she’s networking with all of her friends on my site! Not that I don’t like my sister’s friends. I do. But I like my own friends, too. And now there are so many friends on all three of my sites, no one knows whether they’re talking to Dawn or me. ‘Why didn’t you just use your own password to create the new site?’ I ask impatiently. ‘Because I knew you’d want to proofread it. God forbid I misspell anything on the RowHome site. I’d have to hear your big mouth.’ Great. Now I spend all of my time proofreading the seven sites that Dawn created in an attempt to network with all of her friends. As though her shot at viral marketing wasn’t enough, she put a call in to her good friend Tony Luke. She asked him to help her build an even bigger site using my password. Now we can link all of our friends together in one big happy facebook circle. I’m not sure but I think you can order a cheesesteak from my RowHome Dorette profile page. Tony Luke will even deliver it. Talk about a strong business network! �
gohomephilly.com
As we celebrate our 25th year, we would like to thank our Staff and Clients for being part of our family. Joanne & Jerry Masciantonio
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