PRH Unplugged Music. Movies & a Mansion on the block
Give these local filmmakers a
July | August | September 2010 vol 9_issue 19_2010 gohomephilly.com $4.99 US
$5.99 CAN
Standing Ovation
James Brolin
His ties to Philly & the “Dream� team
VOLUME _9 ISSUE 19_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
Insidethis issue 14_LIFE
Philly Unplugged: Atlantic City Boardwalk Celebrates 140 Years by Brian Sheehan
18_REAL ESTATE
On the Block: Pine Street Mansion is one in a Million by Anna Palij photos by Drew Callaghan Photography
24_THE MENU
Neumann-Goretti Cooks Up a Successful ’Taste of South Philly’ Event by Megan Linkfield photos by Kevin Cook 30_Angelo Lutz The Return of the Cook, not the Crook by Lauren Gordon
34_FILM
East Coast: Philly Sizzles by Sharon Pinkenson 40_West Coast: The Wild, Wild West by Leo Rossi 41_Hollywood 411 by Rocco WIOQ102
JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2010
64
42_music & the arts
Command Performer: Philly Sound Flourishes from Bunny Sigler’s Gospel Roots by Maria Merlino photos by Phil Kramer
green space
45_A Blavat Bash: Geator marks 50 years by Michelle Torres photos by Phil Kramer 46_Kevin Mills: Bringin’ It Back by Bob Wagner photos by Phil Kramer
18
real state
54_business
An Affair to Remember: Save the Date! November 4th
60_fashion
Blushing Beauties by Nicole Tsikoudis
64_GREEN SPACE Eating Green by Kerri-Lee Halkett Anchor, WTFX FOX 29 photos by Phil Kramer
34
film
68_Tastykake is Movin’ On Up by Jessica Lista
78_HEALTH
A Cut Above by Angela DiGerolamo photos by Hector Valentin
88_the schoolyard
RowHome Remembers: T-Ball by Tony Santini
42
music 2
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78
health
63
fashion
VOLUME _9 ISSUE 19_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
regulars
JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2010
6_From the Publishers Let’s go to the movies!
10_Mailbox 12_Neighborhood Noir 16_Hangin’ Out Go Phillies!
94
ON THE CORNER
18_on the block Pine Street Mansion is One in a Million by Anna Palij photos by Drew Callaghan Photography
56
THE BRIDES GUIDE
56_The Brides Guide
6
All Aboard! by Elise Bowder
88_The Schoolyard Moms Like Me: The Low-Down on Lead Safety by Lisa Picozzi
FROM THE PUBLISHERs
94_On the Corner with Mark Casasanto Driving Coach Mark
96_Pressed Dreamweavers by Dorette Rota Jackson
88 THE SCHOOLYARD
on the cover
standing
ovation Introducing the Dream Team: Standing Ovation by Maria Merlino photos by Phil Kramer
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36
standing ovation
STANDING
OVATION Let’s go to the movies!
Friday, July 16th! Friday, July 16th! The chant grew louder in the Packer Avenue Parking Lot last month as the Standing Ovation tour bus departed for its crosscountry trip to promote the movie. Produced by a team of can-do neighborhood pros, the film’s been the center of conversation behind every coffee cup from Philadelphia to the Jersey Shore to the Hollywood Hills. On board? Members of the cast and crew (see page 36 for the local lineup) of the most rockin’ musical of the summer - a family feature set in Atlantic City. The flick follows the journey of five young friends - The Ovations - (including GAMP’s Joei DeCarlo) who defy the odds to chase their dreams. They want to beat the Wiggies to claim top prize in the biggest TV music video contest of the year. Hmm. A movie that teaches kids to believe in their dreams? Put the funnel cakes down and get in line. It’s time to Dance. Sing. Dream.
6
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VOLUME _9 ISSUE 19_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
fromthe publishers Photo by Joey Del Palazzo for pkphoto.com Movie & Popcorn provided by manager Gary Daly, United Artists Riverview Theatre Tour Bus Departure Breakfast provided by Tony Luke’s
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|7
fresh
VOLUME_9 ISSUE 19 _2010 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM President / Publisher Dorette Rota Jackson
Vice President / Publisher
experience
Dawn Rhoades
Editor
real
Dorette Rota Jackson
Vice President Marketing & Promotions Dawn Rhoades
freshness
Creative Director / production Omar Rubio
Contributors Donato Angelotti David Cava Alicia DeLeo Larry Gallone Brian Hickey Brett Jackson Jessica Lista Lauren Macaluso
Larry McMullen Maria Merlino Michael Rhoades Jade Rota Nicole Saylor Tony Santini Mark Casasanto Bob Wagner
assistant editor Lauren Gordon
Green space Editor Kerri-Lee Halkett
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Michelle Torres
THE BRIDES GUIDE Joseph Volpe
Marketing Communications Coordinator Carol Vassallo
Photographers Phil Kramer John McMullen Hector Valentin Paul Loftland
Account Manager Theresa Palestino
THE ITALIAN MARKET PHILADELPHIA
Serving Philadelphia Freshness for Over a Century Open Daily on South 9th Street Wharton to Fitzwater Streets
For more information, visit www.ItalianMarketPhilly.org 8
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Distribution Manager Mike Rhoades
INTERN PROGRAM COORDINATOR Lauren Gordon
Published by:
Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.com www.phillyrowhome.wordpress.com Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine and its contents are copyrighted. Content printed in the magazine may not be reproduced or reprinted, in whole or in part, by any other party without the expressed written consent of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. 2010 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.
Dr. Cohen and Staff are dedicated to addressing all of your orthodontic needs. We are committed to staying current with the latest technology and advances in orthodontics. Everyone in our office understands that each patient presents with different needs and expectations and we do our best to address them in a professional and compassionate manner. Since the beauty of your smile is a direct reflection on the doctor, in our office the doctor himself performs all of the “wire bending” and cementing of appliances. We feel strongly that this delivers the highest quality of orthodontic care possible. You will appreciate our level of commitment to achieve the finest result possible.
Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics Voted one of the best Orthodontists by Philadelphia Magazine 2010
T HEMAILBOX email your letters to: info@gohomephilly.com
Dear PRH:
Just a quick “thanks” to your magazine’s advertiser “Anthony’s Italian Coffee House.” I received a wonderful birthday gift from my sister Donna, which featured several types of coffees and a “large” wake-you-up-in-the-morning coffee mug from Anthony’s. They bent over backwards to help my sis and to ship it out ASAP to make it by my birthday. Without my sister getting your great magazine and seeing Anthony’s ad, I wouldn’t have this perfect gift. Thanks to Anthony’s (a wonderful name) and PRH! Anthony Fanticola Annapolis, Maryland
Dorette & Dawn,
You did a wonderful job with the family war pictures (Salute to Service, Issue 18). I felt proud seeing my dad’s picture. And I
know he feels the same way up in heaven. It’s nice to see a family magazine. Thank you! Missy Lynd
some reason the eggs and potatoes just taste better there! Diane Paquet Blue Grass, Iowa
Dorette & Dawn,
Thanks so much for sending me my first issue of Philadelphia Row Home. I was so excited to see my letter to you (Mailbox) and the issue is awesome. I will be sending my request for a subscription. Can’t wait to keep up on what’s going on till I can get home again for good. Good luck and congratulations on this fun magazine! Carol Comito, Arizona (but not for long!)
You girls are such beautiful and classy ladies. I wish you both the very best. Thank you for the salute to service and honoring the brave (Top Cop. Top Dog, Issue 18). God bless you. Bill Logan & Deuce
Hey PRH:
I love the magazine. It’s awesome. I enjoy reading about home, especially the Penrose story (Finger Lickin’ Ribs, Issue 18). My husband Dan and I always go there first thing (then pizza) when we land in Philly before we head to Jersey. Mmmm, pork roll. Can’t get that in Iowa! And for
Hi girls,
Dorette & Dawn:
I got a copy of the magazine. I love it! I am getting a subscription for my sister and myself. When I saw the pictures of my dad
vol9/10
and our uncles and cousin (Salute to Service) I started to cry. My dad would have loved it. The picture of the truckload (Neighborhood Noir) was great. I remember after my prom at the Bellevue Stratford, we went to Palumbo’s. When I worked, I had a lot of friends in South Philly so it’s nice to read about it and see the pictures. Your dad would be so proud of you girls. Keep up the good work. Linda Retallick
Dorette & Dawn: I got the new issue. I was hysterical about the Facebook (Pressed, Issue 18). I go right to the back of the magazine to read what you write in your column. I love the issue and the old-time photos. Maria Santory
Thinking of Buying or Selling? Let us work for you! PUTTING SMILES ON CLIENTS’ FACES FOR MORE THAN 35 YEARS.
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215-463-0777 LUD CAPOZZI OANH CHUNG
215-432-8181 267-978-2903
Photo taken at the Pavillion, 20th & Hartranft, dedicated to the memory of Packer Park Founder Ludwig S. Capozzi Jr., by his children Barbara A. Capozzi & Ludwig S. Capozzi III
10
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1943. Easter at alma Angelo DeP usiness of B & road e B om 25 ). 13 1920s. H Doorway usic. M (Angelo in of ily y or am F & onservat Coombs C St. next to
. , 5th & Pike Night Club family. 1961. Sciolli to pa al Sc e th ecker with Chubby Ch
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rowhome magazine | 13
CIRO
PRHLIFE
photo by Bob Jagendorf from Manalapan, NJ, USA
Philly Unplugged
LIGHTING AND DESIGN
A
The Broadway Collection
622 South Broad Street Avenue of the Arts Philadelphia, PA 19146 P: 215.732.1577 F: 215.732.7579
1601 Oregon Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19145-4596
Harry Alessi Real Estate Associate Office: 215.389.2222 Fax: 215.467.5547 Cell: 609.636.9783
halessi@spectrumrealty.net
Residential
Real estate www.spectRumRealty.net
14
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Atlantic City Boardwalk Celebrates
140 Years by Brian Sheehan
s they have every summer for more than a century, families flock to the Jersey Shore for a relaxing “unplugged” vacation. Atlantic City’s proximity to the city makes it the perfect hot spot. Shop in designer outlets. Dine in some of the world’s finest restaurants. Enjoy the exciting nightlife and the glamour of the city’s beachfront hotels and casinos. And take a walk down memory lane on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. This past June, the renowned Boardwalk celebrated its 140th anniversary. To mark this milestone, we traced its humble beginnings, noting some of the events that make the Atlantic City Boardwalk one of the most legendary landmarks in U.S. history. Originally built as a way to keep sand out of the beachside hotel lobbies, once hoteliers realized how popular the Boardwalk was, its length was extended, reaching more than seven miles. A hurricane destroyed much of the original Boardwalk, shortening it to its current four miles. Together with the Boardwalk in neighboring Ventnor, it is the longest Boardwalk in the world. ➜ June 26, 1870: At eight feet wide and one mile long, the first section of the Atlantic City boardwalk opened to the public. ➜ 1883: A vendor on the original Atlantic City Boardwalk began offering a new candy called “taffy” after a storm unexpectedly sprayed ocean salt water over his stock. The vendor changed the candy name to “Salt-Water” Taffy and sales boomed. ➜ 1896: The Atlantic City structure was officially designated Boardwalk with a capital “B” by the city’s municipal ordinance. ➜ September 8, 1921: The Atlantic City competition, a two-day beauty pageant, comes to Atlantic City. ➜ September 1924: The Atlantic City Pageant is renamed The Miss America Pageant. ➜ May 31, 1929: Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall was dedicated. This site is now considered the prime entertainment venue in the city, hosting hundreds of shows each year.
gohomephilly.com
➜ November 11, 1934: Atlantic City
becomes a boomtown after a board game known as “Monopoly” features the town in its game. Financial speculators from all over the world rush to Atlantic City to get in on the action. ➜ May 26, 1978: Resorts Hotel and Casino opens in Atlantic City, becoming the first hotel casino in the eastern part of the United States. ➜ March 8, 2003: After a much anticipated wait, New Jersey native Bruce Springsteen sings “Atlantic City” to a crowd of 13,500 at Boardwalk Hall. ➜ January 2006: The Miss America Pageant moves to Las Vegas, Nevada. ■
Did you know… ore than 32.4 million people visit •M Atlantic City annually, making it one of the most popular destinations in the United States. • Approximately 40,500 residents live in Atlantic City. • Boardwalk Hall (formerly Convention Hall) currently contains the world’s largest pipe organ. • All of the street names from the Monopoly Board Game are in Atlantic City except for one – Marvin Gardens (actually spelled Marven Gardens), which is located in Margate. • The Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort has four-and-a-half-times more steel than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. • The original inhabitants of Absecon Island, on which Atlantic City rests, were the Lenni-Lenape Indians. • When the first owner of Absecon Island, Thomas Budd, bought the area’s land, his mainland property was valued at 40 cents an acre, while the beach land cost a mere 4 cents an acre. That same piece of beachfront property today would be worth millions of dollars per acre.
VOLUME _9 ISSUE 19_ 2010 gohomephilly.com
HANGIN’OUT
JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2010
1_ Kicking off the 2010 Wawa Welcome America! festivities this summer are (l to r) City Representative and Executive Director of Welcome America! Melanie Johnson; Lisa Wollen, Wawa Inc.; Mayor Michael Nutter and colonial-era re-enactors. 2_ Jerry Blavat and Daily News Columnist Stu Bykofsky 3_ Ralph Pistoria with his childhood buddies at his 50th birthday bash at Swan Caterers.
1
2
4_ The South Philadelphia Senior Center, 10th & Reed, welcomes the Munier Mandolin & Guitar Orchestra. 5_ Renee Mazza and her Mom Diana Cisneros with family and friends at the Ovarian Cancer Research & Awareness Fundraiser. 6_ John Favano & Keith Richards backstage at Late Night with Jimmy Falon. The Rolling Stones Rock!
3
7_ The BUSINESS rehearsing at GAMP before their concert. L to R: Tom Marchesani (sound production), Justin Gonzalez (vocals, trombone) Greg, D’Agostino (guitars), Manny Capizzi (bass guitar), Andrew Carrozza (sax), Jimmy Edwards (keyboards), Jimbo McCloskey (drums, vocals), Erica Gagliardi (vocals), Dan Vanore (vocals), Tom Nataloni (vocals, trumpet), Charlie Sateriale (sound production). 8_ Brandon Dickens, Tom Longo (Metro Men’s Wear), Rob Green & Rick Mead are hangin’ out. 9_ Brett Jackson with cousins Jesse and Stevie Palladino.
4
10_ Ed Cunningham, WHYY, and wife Ellie with Dawn and Dorette 11_ Building Trades Pat Gillespie, Congressman Bob Brady, Mary-Rita D’Allessandro, Esq. & Variety Club Board Member Ken Adams. 12_ Ward Leader John Sabatina Sr, Variety Club Board member Ken Adams, Jimmy Binns, Esq. and Ozzie Myers celebrate John Dougherty’s (IBEW) 50th birthday. 13_ Workers United Erin Young, Controller Alan Butkovitz, John Dougherty & Workers United Lynne Fox. 14_ Dolly at one of Swan Caterers theme parties.
5 16
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15_ Ken Adams with brother Mickey Adams (Shooting Stars) who won 1st place Captain in the Fancy Division along with vocal star Bunny Sigler, the Bacon Brothers - Michael Bacon and Kevin Bacon - and Congressman Bob Brady.
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P   RHon the block
Pine Street
Mansion is one in a
million by Anna Palij
photos by Drew Callaghan Photography
18
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gohomephilly.com
address: 814-16 Pine Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Listed Price: $5,499,000
rowhome magazine
| 19
P   RHon the block As you ascend the stairway, light cascades gracefully through each of the stained glass windows. This recently renovated mansion is a slice of country royalty in the heart of the city and is up for grabs. The asking price? $5,499,000.
20
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P RHon the block
The Great Gatsby era townhome embraces four floors of unrivaled elegance, each with its own precious perk. Nearly every inch of the home’s 9,000 square feet is covered in Russian oak hardwood or tile floors. The first floor overlooks 4,500 square feet of manicured Pennsylvania Gardens. Don’t worry about parking. This stunning home has a four car garage as well as gated parking. In the living room, rich red draperies and gold gilded ceilings give this stunner its royal touch. Ten Frank Furnace fireplaces keep out the winter chill while the summer sun is cooled by central air. This newly adapted version of the old Italianate classic now has its very own elevator for easier access. One can revel in luxury in any of its six bedrooms, five full baths or two powder rooms - each boasting 12-foot ceilings. The kitchen is fully equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and marble countertops. Every floor in this modernized home is heated for your comfort. All of this sophisticated, architectural beauty is protected by a stateof-the-art security system, adding safety to sheer luxury. n Please view the virtual tour: www.tourfactory.com/514061 Contact: Mike McCann “The Real Estate Man” Prudential Fox and Roach Realtors Office: 215-627-6005 Direct: 215-440-8345 Margo Weil: 215-440-2079 www.mccannteam.com rowhome magazine
| 21
HAPPY
P RHBUSINESS
WINDOWS ❱❱ 2-inch wood ❱❱ Shutters ❱❱ Verticals ❱❱ Mini Blinds ❱❱ Pleated Shades ❱❱ Roman Shades ❱❱ Drapes ❱❱ Valances
CFO: Cash Flow Options from PNC
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Barry Moye President
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Email:Barry@B4URoot.com Phone: 1.877. 893.2335 Address: PO Box 3253 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
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Customers More Ways to Pay
Enhancing your receivables management starts at the point of sale. By offering your customers a choice of payment options, such as credit cards, check cards, gift cards and electronic check services, you can increase your cash flow significantly. To make it simple to process cash-free transactions, many financial
institutions offer point-of sale payment acceptance capabilities – usually under the label of “Merchant Services.”
➜ Make Every
➜ Take
Electronic Check Accep tance (ECA) allows you to expedite the processing of customer checks by transforming a paper check into an electronic transaction (an “e-check”) that’s processed as soon as a customer presents it for payment. ECA, which banks generally include in their Merchant Services offerings, also helps protect you against fraudulent checks and makes handling checks faster and simpler for your employees.
Advantage of Remote Deposit
Chances are your financial institution now offers remote deposit services, which allow you to simply and securely deposit checks into your business checking account without leaving your place of business. Remote deposit services enable you to put incoming checks to work for your business faster by depositing them as soon as you receive them, 24/7.1 Additionally, remote deposit helps you eliminate trips to the bank and frees up more time in your daily day to focus on managing your business.
1.- Funds may not be available for immediate withdrawal.
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Check an E-Check
For customized Cash Flow Options to help improve your business cash flow, contact Chad Shank, PNC Business Banker, at 215.952.8750 or chad.shank@pnc.com or stop by any PNC Bank branch, call 1.877.BUS. BNKG or visit pnc.com.
P RHthe menu
Neumann-Goretti
Cooks Up a successful ‘Taste of South Philly’ event by Megan Linkfield photos by Kevin Cook
C
lose to 450 people gathered for the four-hour ‘Taste of South Philly’ affair to socialize, support the cause and as the name suggests, sample some signature South Philadelphia fare. Twentyeight vendors participated in this year’s tasting event, ranging from neighborhood staples like Pop’s Water Ice and Pat’s King of Steaks to top caterers and restaurants throughout the Philadelphia and South Jersey regions.
A collaboration of nearly two dozen committee members in conjunction with civic sponsors, the Millay Club and the SMG Alumnae Association made the night possible. Host Bob Pantano of 98.1 WOGL kept guests entertained with his “Live Sounds of Philly.” Between sets, the entire Quaker City string band even strolled through for a special performance. According to Dorothy Longo, the school’s director of Institutional Advancement, this annual benefit,
Every year, this fantastic fundraiser brings the community together for a night of food, fun and entertainment.
which dates back to the 1990s, raises around $40,000. Tickets, sold in advance for $40 each, give attendees access to unlimited food and drink samples. Raffle tickets also are sold for $100 and a door prize of $15,000 is awarded to one lucky ticket holder. Silent auction items like gift baskets and even a week’s stay at a private villa in Jamaica was up for grabs. The sights, sounds and savory smells keep supporters returning year after year.
“We’ve been really successful,” says Longo, expressing her hope that the event will only continue to grow. “The more people, the more fun there is.” This year’s event was held at the Philadelphia Navy Yard’s Cruise Terminal. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the students of Neumann-Goretti High School, located at 1736 S. 10th St. For more information on future Taste of South Philly events, visit www.atasteofsouthphilly.com. ■
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Last 5 Homes to Complete the Villas at Packer Park Community Delivery Summer 2010 – starting at $314,990. 10 yr tax abatement 3508 SO. 20th STREET – Interior corner w/ ultra fab side & rear yard – beautifully upgraded throughout, moldings, $599,900. 3410 TREVI COURT – 5 BR - 3.5 BA - plus Media Room and HUGE yard - Too many upgrades to list - $599,900. HISTORIC GIRARD ESTATE – 2420 S. 21st St – Grand
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Wide Variety of Rentals | Condos | Villas | Apartments | Homes
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Congratulations to the crew of “Standing Ovation” from your Packer Park neighbors!
P RHthe menu
Lombardi’s Grilled Veal Chops
Fire up that grill. It’s time to enjoy the outdoors and a recipe that will get your party going in the right direction!
➜ Ingredients ● 5 tablespoons of extra
virgin olive oil
● 1 cup dry red wine ● 1 tablespoon fresh chopped
rosemary or 2 teaspoons dried
● 2 large garlic cloves, pressed ● 1 teaspoon of salt ● 1 teaspoon of ground
black pepper
1022-26 Washington Ave Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.468.8300
1285 Little Mill Road Erial, NJ 08081 856.783.5959
WWW.ANVILIRON.NET 26
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gohomephilly.com
● 6 8- ounce veal rib chops
(to 1 inch thick)
Lombardi’s Prime Meats, 1801 Packer Avenue, Philadelphia, 215.940.2211, 215.334.1212 or www.lombardimeats.com
➜ Preparation Whisk oil, wine, rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper to blend in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Add veal chops to dish and turn to coat with marinade. Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour or refrigerate up to 4 hours, turning veal occasionally. Prepare barbeque (mediumhigh heat) or preheat boiler. Remove the veal from the marinade, shaking off excess. Season veal with salt and pepper. Lightly oil the grill. Grill or broil veal to desired doneness, about four minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer to platter. Garnish with rosemary sprigs then serve.
W H AT I F C I T Y L I V I N G M E A N T
M O R E PA R K I N G S PAC E ,
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P RHthe menu
An Original
Taste A by Erica DePascale
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Joe Pisano 267.444.2301 28
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s I bite down into my eggplant parmesan sandwich encrusted with fresh spinach leaves on a crisp sesame roll, countless fresh flavors blissfully fill my mouth. Why is this so good? Probably because it’s from Shanks Original Sandwiches, a famous sandwich spot amongst countless other sandwich and steak spots that fame Philadelphia. Shank’s isn’t your typical cheesesteak “witor-without” kind of place, though. Their guaranteed fresh produce and meat make the flavors one-of-a-kind and the selection generous. From their world famous Chicken Cutlet and classic ‘Uptown Shanker’, your choices are unlimited. “It started out as just a small hangout, until one day my dad started cooking on a little stove here and there,” daughter of the original owners, Pamela Poppa says. In 1961, “Shank” Frank Perri and his wife Evelyn started cooking for the locals in a small shop on 10th and Catherine Street, in the heart of the Italian Market. “One day my grandmother asked, ‘Why don’t we start cooking for everybody?’” recalls
gohomephilly.com
Poppa, and suddenly their hangouts and home-cooked meals turned into a business. It thrived as a small and quaint landmark for more than four decades until last year. In 2009, the co-owners Marcello Ciurlino and Phil McFillin bought out “Shank’s” name and sold the original building in order to expand the famous restaurant into Center City and South Philadelphia. So what makes Shank’s so different? “We’re known for our beef, pork and the Chicken Cutlet,” Ciurlino says with a smile. Their famous Chicken Italiano sandwich has been named Official Sandwich of Rittenhouse Square as well as being included with the title “Best Sandwiches” in Esquire magazine in 2008. In the future, Shank’s hopes to expand their business beyond Philadelphia. “We’re getting the name out there to where everyone knows it…we’re becoming more national,” Ciurlino says. Shank’s surely honors its promise of novelty, uniqueness and quality. Next time I visit, I’m in for a famous Gaimbotti: a six egg, 12 veggie, every meat omelet that can feed the menu’s “hungry party of two”. ■
P RHthe menu
Meloni’s Chicken Marinade
Tired of the same old chicken on the grill? This will add some pep to your step and keep your guests coming back for more!
There are two certainties in life. Only one comes with options.
➜ Ingredients ● 2 lbs. All Natural Boneless
Chicken Breasts (Hand trimmed at Meloni’s)
● 1 1/ ● 3/
2 cups vegetable oil
4 cup soy sauce
● 1/
2
cup Worcestershire sauce
2
cup red wine vinegar
3
cup lemon juice
● 1/ ● 1/
● 2 tablespoons dry mustard ● 1 teaspoon salt ● 1 teaspoon crushed
red pepper
● 1 tablespoon black pepper ● 1 1/
2 teaspoons finely minced fresh parsley
➜ Directions In a medium bowl, mix together oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, wine vinegar and lemon juice. Stir in mustard powder, salt, pepper (crushed red and black) and parsley. Use to marinate chicken before cooking as desired. We recommend marinating the chicken at least 3-4 hours in a covered bowl in the refrigerator. The longer you marinate, the more flavor it will have. Great recipe for your next BBQ! Meloni’s Butcher Block, 771 Black Horse Pike, Turnersville, NJ, 856.228.5000 or order online at www.melonis.com
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 rowhome magazine
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P RHthe menu
by Lauren Gordon
The return of
Lou’s TV
Electronics Satellite - Video equipment VCR - tV - Radio - CB’S miCRowaVeS - plaSma tV lCd - Hi-deF Sales & Service mon. tHuR. FRi. 9 AM TO 11 PM Sat. & Sun. 12 NOON TO 5 PM
1817 SOUTH DOVER STREET PHILADELPHIA. PA 19145 PHONE 215.468.3028 OR 215.271.1138 we RepaiR eVeRytHing eleCtRiCal we RepaiR any make oR model
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| rowhome magazine
the Cook S
not the Crook
ince he was 12 years old, Angelo Lutz’ favorite room in the house was the kitchen. In fact, his constant presence in the kitchen during Philadelphia’s last big racketeering trial in 2001 prompted Fox 29 reporter Jen Frederick to dub Angelo “The Kitchen Consigliere.” A recipe for success was in the making. Growing up in a traditional South Philadelphia Italian household, Angelo was surrounded by food, family and laughter. He said he began toying with the idea of making his very own cooking show based around the idea of incorporating food and fun. “The whole time I was away, I kept saying that this will work. It‘ll sell, it‘ll sell, it‘ll sell,” the chef proclaims. Apparently, Philly.com thought so, too. In November 2009, the website began airing the bi-weekly show on designated Thursdays. It is slated to soon become a weekly spot. Since Angelo and his co-host Marnie Hall - the face of Philly.com - got the ball rolling, the show has received more than 200,000 hits.
gohomephilly.com
Why? Because “The Kitchen Consigliere” is not your average internet cooking show, Lutz explains. During his very informal cooking sessions, Angelo tosses in a liberal amount of herbs and spices as he recounts tales of his life and experiences as the Kitchen Consigliere. “Poor man’s food,” like pasta, is Angelo’s favorite and he puts his own twist on some classic favorites. “Cooking should be fun. A meal is time for talking and eating and happiness,” Angelo confides. Though things are starting to pick up for Angelo and the kitchen crew, he hopes to keep everything local. “I love Philadelphia. This is my home. This is where I grew up,” Angelo proudly declares. “We have the best and freshest foods known to man right here along 9th Street,” he boasts of the city’s historic Italian Market. If you want to learn how to cook a great meal and laugh along the way, be sure to catch Angelo’s show on Philly.com. It’s the next best thing to Sunday dinner at mom’s. ■
P RHthe menu
Pork Chops Joey
Presented by
➜ Directions ❶ Rinse chops and dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic and parsley. Rub the seasonings into the meat.
➜ Ingredients ● 8 center-cut pork chops
(about 3-1/2 pounds)
● 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil ● 1 (12-ounce) jar whole hot
cherry peppers
●1 /
2 cup red or white table wine
● 2 (16-ounce) cans baked
beans, preferably vegetarian
● Salt, pepper, minced
garlic (bottled or fresh), and chopped fresh parsley to taste
Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Add chops (in two or three batches if necessary; do not crowd). Cook over medium heat until partially cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and arrange in a large casserole dish or baking pan.
❷
❸ Meanwhile, drain peppers, cut in half, and remove stems and seeds. Raise heat to high and add peppers and wine to skillet. Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reduces and thickens, about 5 minutes. ❹ Add the beans, reduce heat
to medium-high, and cook until further reduced and thickened, about 4 minutes. Pour pepperbean mixture over chops.
❺ Bake, covered, in a preheated 350-degree oven until chops are thoroughly cooked, about 25 to 30 minutes.
the James J. Reilly DIV.1 AOH NORTH WILDWOOD, NJ Thursday, Sept. 23rd thru Sunday, Sept. 26th Please call for additional information
1-800-IRISH-91
|
www.cmcaoh.com
VENDORS (All weekend long) IRISH MUSIC (All weekend long) CEILI (Saturday) GOLF TOURNAMENT (Thursday) 5K RUN (Saturday) PIPERS EXHIBITION (Saturday) PARADE (Sunday) So pack the flip flops, beach chair and sun screen for a few more wild Wildwood days. What happens at Irish Weekend stays at Irish Weekend!
rowhome magazine
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P RHthe menu St. Richard Home & School would like to thank all of our Sponsors for their generous donations during our 2010 Walk-A-Thon
Platinum Sponsors The Troast-Singley Agency Sports Complex Special Service District Silver Sponsors A. Penza Bayshore Rebar C&D Appliances Cramers Uniforms Dino’s Party center Fifth Stone Music School Floor Three Designs Flowers From The Heart Foreign Fix Auto Grasso Funeral Home Little Popi’s Pizzelle Nocella Family Prudential Savings Bank Shoprite of Oregon Ave Spectrum Realty St. Richard CYO The Arena The Kaufman Family United Savings Bank Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5
Wine-Ohs! A toast to the Vendemmia winners! by Maria Merlino
W
OWNER ROCCO CIMA EVERYTHING UNDER 500 CALORIES EAT-IN TAKE-OUT DELIVERY 215.468.FUEL FUELPHILLY.COM FUELPHILLY@AOL.COM 1917 EAST PASSYUNK AVE. PHILA, PA 19148
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hen people look forward to the Vendemmia Festival as much as they do the Mummer’s Parade, the city has a recognizable entity that becomes part of the flavor and traditions of South Philadelphia. Founder and Chairman of the event, otolaryngologist Gerard “Jerry” Vernose M.D. has come a long way from the first gathering of 25 winemakers and 330 friends in 1997. “We now have anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 people attend. We needed a bigger venue and picked 20th and Pattison Streets as our new location. As a 501c3 non-profit, the biggest message I have is that what started out as a “fun raiser” has now become a fund raiser with all profits funneled into our scholarship program.” Any of the 8th graders from local Catholic elementary schools and high school seniors who live in zip codes 19145 to 19148 are eligible to apply for the tuition money. And gohomephilly.com
how may one apply? “All they have to do is download an application from our website, print it, fill it out and send it to our office. “ Vernose is also elated that participants of the festival have raised the bar on amateur vintners. “A lot of sophisticated techniques and a respect for the biochemistry, fermentation and yeast that you never saw in the past has popped up,” boasts Dr. Vernose. “The stimulus of the Vendemmia has driven winemakers into competition. All of our winning bottles can stand shoulder to shoulder with any big name winery. We even have a book of the Vendemmia experience called “Garagista” published and written by one of our first place recipients, Ralph Cipriani.” September 26th 2010 20th and Pattison 2-6PM www.vendemmiafoundation.org
P RHfilm
East Coast
Philly Sizzles by Sharon Pinkenson
T
ax credits have been on our minds a lot this season. And while they may not be as ‘sexy’ as a sighting of Robert DeNiro in Old City, they’re a huge part of the reason why big screen stars have been seen strolling the streets of Philadelphia so often this past year. The outlook for the film industry in the Southeastern Pennsylvania region for 2010 may have looked stellar last year thanks to the survival of the Pennsylvania film tax program. But we’re not out of the woods yet. And GPFO and the rest of the film and television community are still working 34
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feverishly to reverse crippling cutbacks to the program in the 2011 budget. But spring brought some encouraging news on the TV front. Conan O’Brien and his production team took some time out from tussling with NBC to shoot an hour-long series pilot that shot in downtown Philadelphia this March. The pilot is for a Washington, DC-based TV show starring Jimmy Smits about a Supreme Court Justice going into private practice. And Tony Danza sightings skyrocketed as the actor made Philadelphia his home this year while chronicling the life of a first-year teacher at
gohomephilly.com
Northeast High School for the upcoming A&E reality show Teach. Look for it this fall. Center City got a Big Apple makeover when the big screen flick The Dark Fields descended upon local hotspots like The Happy Rooster and Butcher & Singer. And more than a few necks were sprained as Philadelphians stretched to catch sight of Bradley Cooper (sometimes seen with visiting gal pal Renée Zellweger) and Robert DeNiro. We may have doubled as New York but the production had Philly written all over it.
The Fifth Time’s the Charm April 10th marked the launch of the fifth season of our ever-popular Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour, presented by PNC Arts Alive. The new season features several new blockbuster movies filmed in Philadelphia including Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Marley
P RHfilm & Me, Baby Mama, and Law Abiding Citizen. What hasn’t changed is the blast you’ll have visiting almost 40 iconic Philadelphia movie sites while lounging on a luxury bus equipped with flat-screen TVs, Surround Sound, and insider secrets from some of the sassiest tour guides around. This year, guests can get in on the action by acting out movie scenes filmed at select locations and later share their rolling ‘audition’ video with friends via a unique URL. Also new this year, couples that want to star in their own romantic comedy can take the Date Night Tour, held the second Saturday of every month. Who wouldn’t like to share a little wine and cheese with their sweetheart in a rolling movie theater? Hurry to make your reservations now at moviesitestour.com. This tour sells out!
in Philly’s Germantown neighborhood circa 1978. Magnolia plans to release the film in the fall, which means you’ll get a chance to see how lovingly Tanya embraced her adopted city of Philadelphia and her characters’ history, neighborhood and demons. I was hooked and I bet you will be, too. This year also marks GPFO’s 25th Anniversary and we intend to celebrate in a big way on November 14th, so save the date! That’s when we’ll host a not-to-bemissed gala for the Silver Anniversary of the Philadelphia Silver Screen. Stay tuned and thanks for more than 25 years of enthusiastic support. ■
STUDIO ELLE F X HAIR SALON 2430 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145
267.687.7134
www.studioellefx.com Michelle FX, Jamie, Tami & Vinnae
Art of Wellness Center
Numbers Game
Integrating holistic healthcare for the mind, body, and spirit
Yan Q. Huo, President/CEO, M.A.,ART-BC, LPC
Did you hear? Philadelphia made MovieMaker Magazine’s 10th annual ranking of the best cities to make films in the United States. Sure, we came in at number nine. But it’s a nice boost from the number 15 spot in 2009. And as we survey Philly’s film scene this year, we think 2011’s number one spot is thisclose. Watch out, Albuquerque! We fared way better in The Entertainment Economy Institute of Los Angeles’ report on the state of film and television production in the U.S. where they ranked Pennsylvania sixth in the nation. And 64 percent of film work in Pennsylvania is either in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. So we continue to be the little economic engine that could!
Board Certified Art Psychotherapist Licensed Professional Counselor
*Acupuncture *Acupressure *Nutrition Consultation *Tai Chi *Yoga and Meditation *Art & Verbal Psychotherapy *Massage Therapy *Allergy Elimination Tel: (215) 305-2238 yhuo@artofwellnesscenter.com www.artofwellnesscenter.com
647 Bainbridge Street Philadelphia, PA 19147
Hotter Than July Hometown favorite M. Night Shyamalan’s locally shot The Last Airbender comes to big screens this summer with an eye-popping new twist. Paramount is converting the live-action adaptation of the massively popular animated series to 3D. We’ll save you an armrest.
What’s Cool This Fall The good news doesn’t end this summer. We’re thrilled that Magnolia Pictures has snapped up U.S. rights to Night Catches Us, Philly-based screenwriter and director Tanya Hamilton’s film about a former Black Panther that stars Anthony Mackie and Kerry Washington as doomed lovers
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.
PhiladelPehia Rowhom Magazine mbers of the
promotes the me
s Network esses. PRh Businesyo ur local busin Please support
RiveR to RiveR. d. one neighboRhoo
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Standing
Ovation Anything is possible if you believe in your dreams by Maria Merlino photos by Phil Kramer
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Diane Kirman, founder of independent film company Kenilworth Films, was inspired by her parents' unshakable faith and love of music to produce 'Standing Ovation,' a classic rags-toriches musical that premieres across the country this summer. Filmed along the Jersey shoreline, Kirman's quest led her to a talented team of Philadelphia pros through local talent agent (and Associate Producer) Mary Anne Claro. Together with Jennifer Tini, Krystal Tini, Monique Impagliazzo and Dr. William Lewis, Kirman's own dreams of success have become a reality. Add James Brolin as Executive Producer and local vocal coach Sal Dupree to the mix, and there's no doubt that 'Standing Ovation' is about to rock theaters from coast to coast. The only child of singing cowboy James Kirman and his wife Bernadette, Producer Diane Kirman saw herself as a typical kid, horsing around and playing the guitar. "My father, whom everyone called Jay, supported the family with his business, Gabe's Speedometers, in southwest Philadelphia. Every cab company knew him. Then he'd come home and start strumming and singing." Recently celebrating their golden wedding anniversary, the parental Kirmans enjoy life in Cape May where the singing continues and Bible readings are the norm. And it was in that Cape May atmosphere where the seeds of her dream germinated. "I always felt that the Jersey Shore was the perfect place to make a film," she begins. "My vision came to fulfillment because of my mother's and father's dedicated prayer life and the
Fearless Women Warriors of South Philadelphia. We never saw obstacles, only solutions." Kirman retrieves a small Concordance from her handbag and inspires me with the Word. 'You will prosper and be successful. Be strong and of good courage. Do not be afraid. Do not be dismayed before God.' "I wanted to show children that if you believe it, you can achieve it and never give up on your childhood dreams." It's at this moment that I let Kirman know that she was part of my dream when she cast me in my first movie, Mannequin. I was a shopper, one of the many extras going in and out of Wanamaker's with shopping bags. Letting loose a big laugh, she acknowledges "That's the movie where I met my husband, Stewart Raffill! We've been married 18 years. I must thank him for agreeing to write the script for Standing Ovation on spec. It was better for him to write it than be nagged all day! He's also our director. About halfway through shooting it, James Brolin, who is friends with Stewart, learned of the project. From the time he was on set, he said he had to be in on it. Jim is positive and uplifting." So many have tried and failed and then walked away dejected. But to Diane Kirman, who has 15 years of film production experience, opening the door of success uses many keys. "Get a clear vision. Step into the water. Live every second of it. Every day, use prayer, meditation, thanksgiving and action. Never lose sight of your goal. Don't see problems as a negative but as a means to get your circumstances back in a positive way." PHIL
A. R OW
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SP TRIM READ A DS : PEC SAF 10.5” S BLE ETY: 9.7 X 16.7 : ED: 5 10.7 5” X 1 ” 5” X 6” 17”
Monique Impagliazzo, Associate Producer With her beautiful beam, flawless complexion and sanguine demeanor, Monique Impagliazzo quickly lets me know that she never played with dolls as a child. "I was a tomboy!" she chuckles. "I loved sports!" Growing up on the 1100 block of McClellan Street with her parents Tony and Rita and siblings Anthony and Gina, Impagliazzo felt nurtured and supported in all her ventures. "My mother was an inspiration to me," she begins. "Growing up, she introduced me to musicals like Funny Girl and always encouraged me by saying 'You can do this!' My mother also loves contests and whenever she saw a talent show, she told me to send in a tape." In her senior year at Goretti Neuman High School, Impagliazzo was cast in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat. With her degree in Film and Media Arts, Mary Anne Claro recognized Monique's potential and hired her as an assistant in her talent agency. "The Tini sisters and I share an apartment in L.A. We do quite a bit of traveling." With three beautiful women living together, is there a secret to cohabitation? Her eyes light up. "It's The Secret," she smiles, referring to the best-selling book. We're like magnets. Happy thoughts create happy circumstances."
Jennifer Tini, Co-Producer Willowy scholar Jennifer Tini had a typical Packer Park childhood filled with wonder, possibilities and dreams. As a student, looking out the window at Holy Spirit Elementary School, her future looked as nebulous as the cumulus clouds overhead. "I always wanted to live in California. I had a fascination with movies," she reminisces. Tini trained for 10 years in dance and theater and by the time she graduated cum laude from La Salle University, she decided to give back by volunteering at her newly re-named high school, Saints Neumann-Goretti, as a Recruitment Director. After two years, she joined the faculty as a history teacher. But the call of the west coast was always on her mind. Taking a leap of faith and her sister Krystal with her, she moved to Los Angeles. "I knew the timing was a now or never. One day I got a call from my friend, Mary Anne Claro. She knew a producer, Diane Kirman, who needed an assistant. I had no experience and Diane was reluctant to hire me. What started out as a two-week temp job has lasted three years. Diane and I have a lot of projects in our future." With a warm heart for her old neighborhood, Tini is gracious for all the love and support from her family and friends. "South Philly culture is always welcoming with open arms. It's allowed me to go away and allowed me to return unscathed."
Krystal Tini, Choreographer Costume Designer Born with a photographic memory and a penchant to move rhythmically in response to music, Krystal Tini's disposition to dance was her obsession. "From when I was three years old, all I could think of was dancing. I wanted to be an entertainer," the gifted choreographer reveals. As an aspiring ballerina, her heart was broken when she tried out for The Nutcracker and was told that her "Italian body type" didn't meet the perfect limb-to-torso ratio as a soloist. Maybe this fact would have been brutally discouraging to another child who studied at The Children's Ballet Company for five years, but Tini was unfazed. Throwing herself into every type of dance from tap to salsa, she soon caught the eye of the 76ers cheerleading team and at the age of 17, became their youngest member. With ten years of actors training, including The Walnut Street Theater, Claro Talent Agency and The New York Film Academy, Tini was used to being in front of the camera. "This was my first time behind the camera," she divulges. "It was fun to watch the kids' wings grow, to see what I taught them, to pass along knowledge and to give my wisdom."
James Brolin, Executive Producer Silvery Moonchild James Brolin has ancestral connections to Philadelphia. "Two in my family, George Ross and George Read, signed the great document of the revolutionary war, The Declaration of Independence. Over the years, I've traveled to Philadelphia many times." When his wife, Barbra Streisand, was doing a concert here, he said they visited the Constitution Center and Independence Hall together. "There is the great bronze statue of George Washington in Independence Hall. She really enjoyed that." For more than a decade, Brolin, an Emmy winner and Golden Globe nominee, said he searched for a film in which he could believe. Knowing Diane Kirman since her marriage to longtime friend Stewart Raffill, he learned of the project about four weeks into production. "Diane had an idea of a magical, high hope plot that involved school kids, 'tweens' and junior high school students. She called me and said that I should be part of it. I felt enthusiastic and responsible at the same time. I put my own money into it. Many of my friends felt the same way and funded the movie with checks ranging from $10,000 to $270,000. I've been a producer before but I'm lucky to be along and feel so good about it. To step into something so creative was exciting. You know when something is not going to work, but there was a street logic here to give it time in the saddle." Brolin senses this movie can re-model American youth. Enumerating, he ticks down a list of positive aspects. "First of all, something like this can get kids off the street and into revitalizing neighborhood dancing schools. Next, the film also has the ability to empower kids to totally respond in a wonderful way to how the plot line develops. And third, if you're poor, you don't have to envy the kids from Mulholland Drive. Kids that would have gone in the wrong direction will want to change. I want to tell you that anything you want is yours to take."
William J. Lewis M.D., J.D., MBA, Executive Producer At the age of eight, an intellectually curious little boy named Bill Lewis was inspired to become a physician. Recalling the days of his childhood in Duquesne, PA, the son of a blue-collar steel worker and housewife was fascinated by family pediatrician, Dr. Fletcher. "We didn't have a lot of money so he would give my mother a big jar of penicillin for the kids. He was such a nice guy." As a member of the College Scholar Program, he was eligible to enter Jefferson Medical College in only three years and graduated with honors. His residency was otolaryngology, specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of all ear, nose, head and neck disorders. He also received a Masters Degree in Business and Preventative Medicine and earned a law degree. He is a member of the Bar of the Supreme Court of the United States. Did I mention he also has a SAG card? "When movies come to town, I sometimes get calls from the directors to give medical tests if the actors are having throat problems. Once I got cast as captain of a private yacht. I had four lines and worked with Jim Brolin." Four years after treating Diane Kirman's father, she asked Dr. Lewis, Chief of Surgery at Lankenau Hospital, to join the production team. "This film will introduce the Boardwalk to the rest of the country and will also generate interest in dancing schools," he added. "I was told there would be no major stars, just a talent pool of unknown children and Sal Dupree's students. In this stormy economy, people have to believe. I believed and my friends at Lankenau Hospital believed."
P RHfilm
West Coast
Reporting from the West Coast
The wild, wild West
W
ith the theme for this issue of RowHome being “unplugged”, I decided to ‘plug’ you readers into what my wife Lynn and I do in our chill time. When we get an urge to frolic in the snow, we get in our car and make an hour and 40-minute drive to Big Bear, where we go sledding. I know people in Philly don’t go out of their way to find snow but for us wacky Californians, it’s a novelty. When we want to go to the beach, it is only a 20-minute drive to Santa Monica or to Venice Beach. “People watching” on the Venice Boardwalk is one of our favorite pastimes. You can see the ‘one-man band’ or watch the weightlifters pump iron at Muscle Beach. There are rollerskaters galore and the basketball courts usually have college and pro-talent on display with trash-talking elevated to an art form. When you live only 5 minutes from the Santa Anita Racetrack, you have to take advantage of an afternoon of betting delight every so often. Lynn and I sit in the splendor of the Turf Club and enjoy picking our losers while having a Margarita. We are “Bowl” situated for our entertainment 40
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gohomephilly.com
by Leo Rossi pleasure. The Rose Bowl is only a 15- minute walk from our house and they have the largest Flea Market in the West on the second Sunday of every month. In the fall, we make that walk to see the UCLA Football Team play their home games. For our concerts, we go to the Hollywood Bowl. It is carved into the side of a mountain and the acoustics are brilliant. The Paul McCartney concert was the highlight of the season. You can bring a picnic basket and enjoy the concert while partaking in your own gastronomical banquet under the stars. If Little Tokyo is in our plans, it is only minutes away and we can have…you guessed it…a Teriyaki Bowl! We don’t have the Liberty Bell but we do have the Gene Autry Museum. A tour of the museum gives you the feeling of being back in the Wild West. I am taking the family to the Dodgers game tonight, which is an 8-minute drive. It’s a little overcast but I don’t worry about a rainout. Since the Dodgers came west in 1958, they have only had 2 rainouts. This is sunny Southern California, after all. Until next time, “Ciao Philly”! ■
P RHfilm
The Hollywood
S
o 2010 became the year of "Relationship Turmoil" between Jesse James and Sandra Bullock and the Tiger Fiasco. Sources are now saying Tiger’s list rose to 121 women! On the other hand, some cheating rumors remain unconfirmed. Josh Duhamel, actor and husband to Stacy “Fergie" Ferguson of the Black Eyed Peas, was bit by the cheating scandal bug when an exotic dancer claimed she spent time with Josh
while he was on location for his latest film. However, Josh adamantly denied the claims and Fergie continues to stand by her man. In movie news, the sequel to the Dark Knight is scheduled for release in the summer of 2012. Who will play the Villain? Since Heath set the bar so high, it will be no easy task. Sources point to Johnny Depp as the Riddler and Philip Seymour Hoffman as the Penguin. Also, get ready for Men in Black 3 in 3D coming May of 2012
411
with returning stars Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith. It is no secret that the world caught "Bieber-Fever" when rising star Justin Bieber came on the scene. The young pop star shut down cities, concert venues and malls. On a recent visit to Q102, 3,000 fans swarmed outside the studios to catch a glimpse of the teen heartthrob. The “Biebs” comes to the area this summer but get ready to pay top dollar for your dose of the 16-year-old sensation.
with R occo WIOQ102
The show is completely sold out! Is Philadelphia the new Hollywood? More and more movies are picking Philly to film. This summer, Bradley Cooper and Robert DeNiro will be out and about filming “The Dark Fields” which is expected to be released in March of 2011. That’s the Hollywood 411! Always get late breaking news at www.q102.com - Keyword “Rocco”. n
ROMAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Est. 1890
With a student body representing 142 elementary schools, an average of $17 million dollars in college academic scholarships, a comfortable learning environment and a College preparatory program that is second to none, Roman Catholic High School remains, after 120 years, not just a neighborhood school, but every neighborhood’s school.
16 Varsity Sports 30 Clubs & Activities Over 120 Years of Tradition
Discover South Philly’s Home in Center City Roman Catholic High School. 301 North Broad Street. Philadelphia, PA 19107. 215-627-1270. admissions@cahillite.com
www.RomanCatholicHS.com
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gohomephilly.com
Command Performer Philly Sound flourishes from Bunny Sigler’s gospel roots by Maria Merlino photos by Phil Kramer
Four -time Grammy winner and nominee and multi-platinum recording artist Walter “Bunny” Sigler was singing before he was born. “My grandmother heard me crying in my mother’s womb. Being old school, she wasn’t sure if I was a devil or an angel! When I was born, I had a fully developed tooth. My mother looked at me and said that I looked like a bunny rabbit. I’ve been called Bunny ever since.” As the seventh of eight siblings, he was considered a Golden Child. Growing up in a neighborhood near the Delaware River, Sigler benefited from the diverse ethnicity in the vicinity. “We had all kinds of people living on my block; it was like something out of a movie. We had Jewish, German, Spanish, Italian and English. My brother-in-law, Eugene Mazzuca, bought me my first football when I was 10 years old. I spent a lot of time at The Helping Hand Mission where I heard the story of Joseph and the Multicolored Coat. They would take me to all these places and I was a little songbird. Everybody hated me because everybody loved me. I was shocked to find out I was black!”
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P RHmusic & art
Nadine Vogel Master Stylist Salon Leader
Hartford Plaza
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Strong and able-bodied, Sigler worked on a soda truck for the now defunct Squirt Soda and Sweeties. “I was only 14 but I worked like a man loading 50-pound cases of soda onto the trucks. I made $3 a day.” When he went home, he shared his pay with his mother. “I gave her a dollar and a half, and I’d keep the rest.” Sigler also showed aquatic and athletic prowess in his youth. “I was swimming champion. My friend, keyboardist Dexter Wanzel, was the state champion but I managed to out-swim him. I learned how to dive by diving on my bed but I caught a beating for that! “Also on the gymnastics team, he could walk a tenth of a mile on his hands. “I remember I once ran into an old friend and he asked if I joined the circus!” Deeply spiritual with a profound connection to Divinity, Sigler credits his emotion to growing up with gospel music. “My best friend, manager and lawyer, Lloyd Zane Remick, nearly had a Baptist moment when he heard me sing The Lord’s Prayer, “Sigler laughs. “I thought he was going to shout!” gohomephilly.com
Remick, an entertainment attorney who represented Grover Washington Jr. for 25 years until his death in 1999, tells me in addition to being friends with Sigler for 35 years, they have a wonderful working relationship. Bunny just came back from the Vienna Opera House where he played Othello. His album, The Othello Syndrome, was nominated for a Grammy. His song Mr. President, about Barack Obama, is a huge youtube hit. He ’s produced and been recorded by almost every artist in the industry. The O’Jays, The Spinners, Patti La Belle, Lou Rawls, Outcast, J-Zee, Nelly, 50 Cent, have all used his material. That’s 35 million units. Sigler’s first big hit, a double song, “Let the Good Times Roll & Feels So Good,” was 12th on the Billboard chart in 1967. Remick and Sigler joined forces and began a music company, BUN-Z Music and Record LLC. With their first CD, The Lord’s Prayer, well on its way, they now are releasing a single from the next album of music, From Bunny, With Love, called You Never Know. “In my many years of being in the entertainment world, there are very few writers, producers and artists as versatile as Bunny,” Remick says. “He is a gift to the music world as a talent and as a human being.” ■ Bunny Sigler is available through Zane Management remick@braverlaw.com 215.575.3803 www.bunnysigler.com youtube /bunny sigler
P RHmusic & art
A Blavat Bash by Michelle Torres photos by Phil Kramer
On May 26th, one of Philadelphia’s most
famous radio hosts was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating 50 years of “Geator Gold” music. On behalf of family, friends and colleagues, PRH Publishers Dawn Rhoades and Dorette Rota Jackson (dubbed the “Doublemint Twins” by the Geator himself) presented Jerry Blavat with the award at his Wednesday night show at Philadelphia Park Casino’s 360 Bar. Since the 1960s, Blavat has been spinning the best sounds of the 50s and 60s that the region has ever known. Working in the business for so long has earned him a lot of friends in high places. Some of those celebrities were on-hand to congratulate the Geator with the Heater including Chubby Checker, Bunny Sigler, members of The Trammps, world famous record collector Val Shively, Leon Huff and Broadcast Pioneer Trudy Haynes. WHYY’S Ed Cunningham served as MC and FOX 29’s John Bolaris reported live from the Philadelphia Park Casino. ■
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P   RHmusic & art
Kevin Mills Bringin’ it back by Bob Wagner photos by Phil Kramer
T
he name Elvis Presley conjures up a myriad of images: the hip-shaking Hillbilly Cat, the Hollywood Heartthrob and the Las Vegas Showman. The entertainment field has never produced a performer that rose to his heights. There are those of you who will plead a case for Frank Sinatra, The Beatles or Michael Jackson. However, a quick check of the facts will produce some astonishing results. To date, Elvis Presley sold more than one billion records worldwide. As of January 2004, 147 Elvis albums and singles have been certified gold, platinum or multi-platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). When Elvis died on August 16, 1977, he left behind an infatuated public that wanted more. Today, a plethora of Elvis Presley tribute artists perform regularly around the world. South Philadelphia is home to one of them. Kevin Mills is well known throughout the industry and considered one of the best in the business. Mills (aka Milanese) recently sat down with Philadelphia RowHome Magazine to discuss his award-winning show.
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P RHmusic & art
cucina
Forte Ristorante Italiano
768 So. 8th Street Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.238.0778 Maria Forte PRH) Tell us a little about your background. Where did you grow up? KM) Well, I am a proud South Philly native. I grew up in Packer Park. My family moved over to Cinnaminson, NJ, when I was 13. For the past 17 years, I have been living up in Toronto with my wife and two children.
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KM) The first time I went on stage as Elvis was in 1990. I had entered the 4th Annual Elvis Impersonator Contest down in Memphis and was crowned World Champion out of 80 contestants. I focused on the 50s Elvis in the contest. As a result of that, I started working for Legends in Concert in 1991 as well as additional gigs on a freelance basis.
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KM) I was about nine years old when I first became aware of him. I used to see his old movies on TV and family members had his old records. Something about him just grabbed me. As years went by, I started singing professionally in a Rockabilly band and we used to do some of his 50s songs.
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PRH) That is quite impressive. What other competitions have you won or are you competing in? KM) In 2007, I was crowned Grand Champion in the Pro Division at the Visions of the King Elvis Festival up in Ontario. I placed 3rd in the 2009 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest (UETAC), sponsored by Elvis Presley Enterprises. This year, I am competing, again, in the UETAC, in Memphis. There were 26 preliminary competitions held around the world with over 750 contestants. I will be competing against the other winners down in Memphis in August for the $20,000 prize. PRH) Today, are you focusing on a particular era of Elvis’ career on stage? KM) Yes. Presently, I focus on the 1970-73 time period of Elvis’ career. It is so diverse, musically speaking. The man could sing anything and any style. PRH) What is the hardest part of trying to capture the spirit of an Elvis performance during that period of his career? KM) Over the years, Elvis’ voice had matured
and during that period of his career, the sheer power he was able to project on-stage, especially during the power ballads, is quite difficult to capture. In addition, capturing the nuances - all of the karate moves he had incorporated into his stage movements presents quite a challenge. PRH) What was your most memorable gig? KM) The 2010 Legends in Concert series sponsored by Elvis Presley Enterprises. In six weeks, we hit 25 cities and the audiences were absolutely phenomenal throughout. PRH) What do you feel was Elvis’ greatest contribution to music and culture? KM) Quite simply, he changed the world. He cobbled together various forms of music into a style and genre all his own. He helped break down the racial barriers and exposed the black Rhythm & Blues and fellow Rock & Roll performers to white audiences. If that was all he ever did, that would be quite a legacy. But there is that and so much more. ■ Log onto www.kevinmillsbringingitback.com for more information.
P RHmusic & art
Mike Tarsia
Number One With a Bullet
J
by Lauren Macaluso
ust as STAX and MOTOWN were associated with a specific sound from a specific city - Memphis and Detroit respectively from the mid 60s to the early 80s, Philadelphia also had its own identifiable resonance that dominated the charts and airwaves of the world. The Sound of Philadelphia came to life at Sigma Sound Studio. Founded by Joe Tarsia in 1968, it was only the second studio at the time to offer 24-track recording and the first studio anywhere to successfully employ console automation. During its hey-day, the unique sounds that emanated from Sigma Sound made the Tarsia family and Sigma Sound synonymous with The Sound of Philadelphia. When Sigma was sold in 2003, Mike Tarsia took his memories and a venerable treasure trove of Gold and Platinum Records that his father amassed in his studio back to his home. Those awards provide testament to the influence of Sigma Sound during its reign. When asked to choose one award that stands out among the dozens which include Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, The O’Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, Patti LaBelle, The Jacksons and David Bowie, Mike laughs and points to McFadden & Whitehead’s self-titled album. Mike was an assistant producer for the 1979 album sessions. “Take
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856.424.1700 1916 Route 70 East Suite One, Cherry Hill, NJ
P RHmusic & art
Summertime in South Philly www.daviscps.com
a look at this,” he says, pointing to a small piece of metal at the bottom of the album’s frame. “It’s a bullet.” Turns out, a shooting took place near Sigma Sound Studio and a bullet somehow found its way into the BREAST frame leaving a hole in the gold-plated record. Mike calls it the “Number One with a Bullet.” AUGMENTATION When asked why an institution like Sigma Sound Dr. Steven L. DavisStudio was sold, Mike offers an explanation. TM TOP PHYSICIAN “Giant record labels aren’t what they used to beFOR 2008the ever-changing technologies and expenses that Board Certified Plastic Surgeon go into running a traditional state-of-the art recording studio no longer make it possible to proceed in Liposuction the old school manner. AS FEATURED ON But there are thousands of bands out there nowTummy Tuck you can support them and download their music,” Eyelid & Necklift he adds. Acknowledging the changing music scene, Mike Botox continues to produce and mix tracks from his home Juvederm in South Philadelphia. He collaborates with musicians from Philadelphia to Vietnam. Restylane Through his company, Mike Tarsia Recording, he Sculptra teaches clients how to properly mix and master tracks Breast Augmentation Lasers & More… or Mini Breast Liftto control their own sound. With more than 30 years of experience to back him up, he’s confident with the Saline Implantsend result. “Just because more recording is being done nowor Silicone Implants doesn’t necessarily mean it is being done right. When Bra Line LipoI’m done working with [an artist], they’ll know how to Liposuctionmix.” As the founding director of the Philadelphia Chapter Tummy Tuckof the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Mike Tarsia ensures that local musicians Dr. Steven - supported and receive national recognition. He L. Davis Face & Neck Lift are Surgical & Non Surgicalalso takes part in GRAMMYs in the Schools and lectures at local colleges like Drexel University and Lip EnhancementUniversity of the Arts. ■
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AS FEATURED ON
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PRHmusic & art
Mike McCann “The Real Estate Man” & His 5-Star Team
It doesn’t cost any more to choose the best and Mike McCann is the #1 PRUDENTIAL REALTOR™ IN THE ENTIRE UNITED STATES! Thinking of selling? Call 215.778.0901
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Mighty Heart Mighty Voice
Freestyle star Denine is back and ready to shine
W
hen Denine’s doctor told her not to speak or sing for two days straight, she knew that it wasn’t going to happen. The South Philadelphiaborn songstress has been hard at work, returning to the recording studio after a long hiatus and she couldn’t be more excited to talk about it. Her freestyle hit “Baby I Love You” surged the airwaves after Q102 picked it up in 1991. Soon after, she had a contract with Viper/Metropolitan and was well on her way to stardom. But then life took the artist a different route. Family always came first for Denine, whose ice-blue eyes light up when she speaks about her sons. And when 16-year-old Gino Jr. and 9-year-old Michael were both diagnosed with autism, raising them became her passion. “I really felt like music would have to take the back seat to being a mom,” Denine says. “I take the job very seriously.” She said goodbye to music and
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by Nicole Saylor put everything into becoming an advocate for autism and playing an important role in her sons’ lives. But when Denine’s mother passed away last year, she remembered her mom telling her that music was what she needed to be doing. So, in honor of her mother, she decided to master her amazing mother role while staying true to herself and returning to the stage and studio. “You’re never too old,” she adds. “I’m going to shake it like I did when I was 27.” This May marked Denine’s first performance in a decade. An impressive crowd of fans showed up at Chickie’s & Pete’s Play2 to welcome her. Denine lovingly dedicated the show, which sold out in three weeks, to her mother and to her sons, donating a portion of the proceeds to autism programs. With a successful performance and new single “Shine” releasing this summer, Denine is well on her way to rekindling her passion with the finesse of a true star. ■
Anthony’s Italian Coffee House is the celebration of a century-long Family Tradition of Excellence in Philadelphia’s Italian Market. Owned & operated by the 4th Generation of the Anastasio Family, Anthony’s Italian Coffee House is Philadelphia’s Premier Italian Café, featuring the area’s finest selection of Coffees, Chocolates and Gelato. Located in our Family’s original retail store on the Italian Market, Anthony’s Italian Coffee House now offers nationwide shipping of our specialty products for all to enjoy—whether you’re across town or across country.
Italian Coffee House 903 S. 9th st 215-627-2586 Chocolate House 915 S. 9th St 215-627-5080 Open 7 Days a Week Mail Order 800-833-5030
www.ItalianCoffeeHouse.com rowhome magazine
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We Tried OTher SchOOlS buT FOund a hOme aT
P RHmusic & art
neumann-GOreTTi
Wiggle your feet with
Sneaker Pete
Charlie Fitzsimmons ‘11
Gianna Cassello ‘12
Save The d
aTeS:
Steve Lopes ‘11
Open House & Registrati on September 30 , 2010; 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Scholarship /Placement Tests 9:00 A.M. to 12 :00 P.M. October 23, 201 0; November 6 , 2010; November 20, 2010 Universal Vis itation Day November 18, 2010
FOrGinG Our FuTure... TreaSurinG Our TradiTiOnS
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I
t was 1966 and Sneaker Pete Thompson was fresh out of The American Academy of Broadcasting School where his teachers were renowned Boss Jocks - Jim Nettleton, Long John Wade and Tony Bruno. The dream of becoming a disk jockey came true. His Federal Communications License was matted and placed on the wall. As he adjusted the askew frame, the telephone rang. It was a friend who worked at the JFK Stadium. ‘Can you come down here right away?’ he asked. ‘Barbra Streisand needs you.’ Thompson took public transportation down to the stadium and was escorted to the superstar’s trailer. ‘Thank God you’re here, Pete!’ It was Elliott Gould. He pointed to a sink-full of dirty dishes. ‘Barbra will be here any minute from the show. Would you mind…?’ And yes, Thompson washed the china. “I remember that night well,” he reminisces. “Barbra was pregnant with her son Jason. Her assistant Renata was out. It was pouring rain. I had no transportation home. She said ‘Don’t worry! Elliott and I will take you home.’ And there I was, in the back of a limo sitting between a pregnant Barbra and Elliott. I got dropped off right in front of my house!”
by Maria Merlino photo by Hector Valentin Professional DJ Sneaker Pete Thompson has come a long way from spinning records at The Packer Park Swim Club for $20 a show when he was 13 and rubbing elbows with Barry Manilow, Al Martino, Jamie Farr, John Travolta, Elvis, Cheech and Chong and John Lennon. “Lennon was a good man. I got to know him well. When we first met he said, ‘Sneaker Pete? That’s a hell of a name for a disc jockey,’ Thompson laughs. “I still have a towel he gave me.” Today, his focus is on charity events booked through his 501c3, The Sneaker Pete Foundation. “I worked very hard for that,” he declares. With a brand new van that was re-furbished by Lowe’s, Avellino Carpet, American Mobility and A and J Wholesale Cabinets, look for Sneaker Pete in a neighborhood near you. “My goal in life is helping people and giving back to the people of South Philadelphia. I was born in a row home on Durfor Street and still live in the same row home. All I ask for is a little respect and a chance to make a living.” ■ Contact Sneaker Pete: www.sneakerpetethompson.com 215-271-7079 Maria Merlino lives in and writes about South Philadelphia
NOW Center City 423 South Broad Street (Avenue of the Arts) Serving South Philadelphia For over 45 years Spectrum Realty Co South Philadelphia & Center City South
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River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. one Neighborhood. River to River. o
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P h i l a d e l p h i a R o w H o me P R E S E N T S
an
To remember
2010
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B u s i n ess
The most exciting Business Networking event of the year. Sponsored by Cescaphe Ballroom November 4, 2010 Reserve your tickets early. Call 215.462.9777 or email info@gohomephilly.com Black Tie. Red Carpet. Blue Sapphires.
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P RHLIFE
Wildwood
Tattoo Beach Bash T
he 1st annual Wildwood Tattoo Convention, presented by renowned artists Mike Siderio and Tony Olivas, is headed for the beach on September 10, 11th & 12th and November 4, at the Wildwood Convention Center. World famous tattoo artists and renowned sponsors will make this an event you won’t want to miss, according to Siderio. Owner of Rebel Image Tattoo in Rio Grand NJ and an internationally known award-winning artist, Siderio has been featured in numerous tattoo magazines throughout his 26 years in the business. Olivas, founder of Sacred Heart Tattoo in Atlanta, has been tattooing for 28 years and has a global presence in the tattoo community. Exciting activities include tattoo contests, trick skateboarding demos, art exhibits, magazine coverage, door prizes and much more. Along with the Beach Bash, tattoo enthusiasts will be in town for the 15th annual “Roar to the Shore” motorcycle rally, taking place at the same time. More than 100,000 to 140,000 people are slated to take part in this four-day event. For information, contact Mike Siderio at wildwoodtattoobeachbash@comcast.net
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rowhome magazine 60 | ROWHOME MAGAZINE www.gohomephilly.com
P   RHbrides guide
All aboard! by Elise Bowder
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Lucia Spina Bridal Consultant
W
ith a classic look and spacious interior, a custom Cescaphe trolley will surely turn your wedding day into an affair to remember. The trolleys have an exquisitely unique look with all-white exterior trimmed in luxurious gold. The interior features classic oak benches and sleek brass handrails. “A beautiful white trolley turns heads,” says go-to trolley guy Joe Erace. “Limousines don’t turn heads anymore.” The classic, old time look is what makes the trolleys noticeable whereas limos tend to be overdone nowadays, Erace says. But the advantages of the trolleys go beyond their appearance. The trolleys offer both capacity and “moveability.” They can hold a large number of passengers who are free to move about. In a limo, Erace explains, you’re stuck sitting down -- slowly wrinkling your beautiful gown. In a Cescaphe trolley, passengers are able to stand, sit or walk around as they please. Cescaphe trolleys hold 26 to 33 passengers. If the trip is not too long, passengers are welcome to stand so the trolley can hold even more people. All trolleys are air-conditioned and heated, so they are a great means of transportation
PERSONAL DRESSER SPECIALIZING IN
“‘Brides love them,’ Erace says. More than 95 percent of Cescaphe’s bridal parties select the customized transportation they offer – the only white trolleys in the city. “ during any bridal season. They also boast a state-of-the art entertainment system complete with a CD/DVD player and a 17-inch flat screen television. Erace encourages brides to make their trolley experience even more memorable by providing their own music or videos. “Brides love them,” Erace says. More than 95 percent of Cescaphe’s bridal parties select the customized transportation they offer – the only white trolleys in the city. If you’re searching for creative yet elegant transportation, Cescaphe trolleys add flair and finesse to your perfect day. n 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.
DAY – OF – WEDDING SERVICES ASSISTING BRIDES EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
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215.334.3400 Petalsfloristphila@yahoo.com
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y) e (Jo phin oro. e s o .J an 1939 o Camp Oliv
June 25, 1964. Carmela (Taormina) & Vince Lombardi, from 11th & Annin St.
September 19 46. Catherine Arnao & Pete Olivo from Stocker St.
ss. Cathth & Cro 10 s. 0 3 19 peartore tti) Com erine (Pa
an 12, 1964. Je September azzo. ar at M ) lo (Truscel
1946 . Jo 800 hn & Cat b h daug lock of D erine Sic hter ilian udle y o Mar y (Se St. with , bast iano ).
November 16, 1942. Rita (Morabito) and Rosario Maccarone from 12th & Wolf.
58 | rowhome magazine www.gohomephilly.com
October 1, 1943. Melbourn e, Australia. Nick & Pop py (Porter) Parice from Cen ter City Philadelphia.
P RHfashion
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Blushing
Beauties
T
here are women who dream in assorted colors of lipstick tubes, eyeshadow palettes and wands of mascara. The Blush Beauty Bar, owned by Karen Massanova in the newly renovated Passyunk Square, is a sophisticated boutique that offers clients a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lined with Mario Badescu products, the beauty bar features an array of mirrors, brushes and Massanova’s own mineral makeup line based out of Manhattan. A variety of esthetic treatments will rid you of unwanted hair as well as relax, revitalize and rejuvenate your skin with facial treatments customized to your needs. Tired of your same old makeup selections? The Blush Bar will lead you down a fresh new path
by Nicole Tsikoudis
of exciting products in shades that complement your skin tone and your style. Your friends will appreciate a night on the town that includes eyelash application, a European facial or The Blush Bar’s popular Vitamin C facial. Or kick back with a refreshing clay mask to help cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize tired skin. From blushing brides to prom queens to princess parties, every event is a special event, says Massanova, an esthetician whose career spans Toppers in Center City to Giuseppe Franco in Beverly Hills. Her services include makeup, skincare and spa treatments for both men and women. Blush Beauty Bar, 1714 E. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, 215.468.2811, blushbeautybarandspa.com
P RHfashion
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P 215.389.8888 | F 215.389.2045 2015 S. Water Street • Philadelphia, PA 19148 1500-02-04 Shunk Street. Philadelphia, PA 19145 62
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hether your hair has survived bleaching, highlighting, coloring, perming or straightening, the Brazilian Keratin Treatment can revive and rejuvenate your battered mane. This revolutionary chemical-free treatment dramatically straightens, smoothes, conditions and adds a healthy sheen to your tired tresses. The treatment contains keratin, an extremely strong protein and a major component in hair. And it provides a lot of benefits that just won’t be tamed. Once used, your hair will dry in about a third of the time with very little effort. It will also straighten even the frizziest of do’s so you can toss that flat iron away! Now is the perfect time to treat yourself to the Brazilian Keratin Treatment. Your hair will be soft, shiny and 100 percent frizz-free-even down the shore! The Cutting Point - a total image salon, is located at 17th & Oregon, Philadelphia, 215.389.8100. n
P RHfashion
Philly’s new best kept secret. cooperage: A wine & whiskey bar
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by Lauren Gordon
cross buns N
o mater how silky smooth your tresses are, sometimes hair needs to be out of your face fast when the weather and humidity soar. No longer just for adorable four-year-olds and graceful ballerinas, buns are always stylish and easy to accomplish. The Ballerina Bun Begin the do by wetting hair and adding a few dabs of gel, brushing from root to tip thoroughly. Simply smooth and secure hair at the crown with a sturdy hair-tie. Tightly coil hair and wrap around base of the pony tail. Secure tightly with a few bobby pins.
The Rose Bun Pull hair into desired level pony tail. Just as if you were going to make the standard braid, separate hair into three sections while still damp. Twirl each individual section and plait twirls. Tie off the end and twirl into a circular bun around base of ponytail. Secure with bobby pins. The Upside-Down Bun After securing in a pony tail, twist hair as if wringing it out to dry. As you twist, the pony tail will start to curl around itself. Keep twisting until it has curled into its own unique pattern. Use clip or bobby pins to secure bun and catch fly-aways. Remember to accessorize your do with suitable headbands and fashion clips! n
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PRHGreenSp ce
Eating
Green by Kerri-Lee Halkett
I
Anchor, WTXF FOX 29 photos by Phil Kramer
don’t quite remember when my culinary calling began. Was it after I watched “Julie and Julia?” Or maybe it began with the delicious earthy whiff I got the first time I grabbed a bunch of fresh herbs from the fridge to feed my bunny. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when and why my love for cooking originated but I guess if I had to pick a memory that stands out, I’d say it was when my husband bought me Julia Child’s famous “The Art of French Cooking.” I love nothing more than the chance to spend an entire afternoon in the kitchen. Since I anchor the evening newscasts during the week, my dinner cooking career is relegated to weekends, usually Saturday afternoons. That is when I turn into a mad chef, experimenting with a dash of this and a pinch of that, anxiously waiting to delight my dinner guests. No matter what the dish or recipe, I always make sure to follow Julia’s advice when completing a meal - ending with an “herb bouquet.” Shortly after I discovered the joy of cooking, I found my second love - eating and cooking green. I soon discovered that grocery store herbs in their non-recyclable plastic packaging were not only costing me more and lacking in freshness, but their plastic containers were taking up space in a local landfill. A couple stringy pieces of basil: nearly 4 bucks? I knew I had to find a better, more carbonfootprint-conscious (and wallet friendly) way to flavor food with Julia’s mandatory “HB” (herb basket). The answer was clear - I had to grow it myself. However, before I turn you into a fellow urban farmer, let’s go on a “green grocery journey” and talk about “eating green.”
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PRHGreenSp ce What is it?
I ask questions for a living and that’s what we all need to do when we try to eat green. First, find out where your food comes from. How was it grown or raised? What exactly is the advantage of grass-fed livestock? Begin searching food origins and examining the way your food has been handled, delivered and presented. Why is it important to know these things? Because it will have a positive effect on your life. Eating green ensures that your food consumption has minimal impact on the environment. Organic products (no pesticides) are the way to go. While buying strawberries at your local grocer may be more convenient (and cheaper than their organic equivalent), buying organic is worth it.
Why Local?
Doc's Union Pub Serving over 35 different Beers & 20 different Martinis Doc’s Union Pub 1843 S. 2nd Street on the corner of 2nd & Mifflin Sts. Philadelphia, PA 19148 2158.465.6615 66
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The closer you live to the place where your food is produced, the better. Here in Philly, our suburbs are rich with fresh, locally grown fruits and veggies. Shopping at farm stands is a simple but important step toward green eating since you want your food to travel as few miles as possible to reach your dinner table. Fewer miles on the road means fewer greenhouse gases released into the air. Something else to consider when buying imported products is that other countries have different regulations and may not ban the same chemicals or drugs as we do. Eating local means supporting the farmers in our area. It helps them sustain themselves and keeps their lush farmland from being developed. More farmland means less traffic, shorter commutes and fewer emissions. The end result? Cleaner air, the preservation of natural habitats and a healthier eco-system. You can also support local farmers by shopping at gourmet grocery stores like Whole Foods, which provide a service that will help you trace the origin of the fruits and veggies.
Eat in Season
Eating in season means learning about, and sticking to our area’s growing cycles. Not sure what’s in season when? Generally, the hardier the plant, like broccoli or brussel sprouts, the less sun it needs and the more likely it is to be harvested in winter and spring. To make it simpler, just think back to your childhood and remember what foods you link with each season-- squash and pumpkins around Halloween, blueberries and corn on the cob in summer. Local fruits and veggies are not picked as early as produce from faraway lands. They have longer to ripen so there’s less need to spray them with artificial growth enhancers or coloring. And less time to lose their nutritional value.
Urban Gardening
Are there local farm stands within the city limits? Philadelphia is teaming with urban gardens and many of them even sell to some of your favorite restaurants. City Harvest, a community-based network of gardens, raises naturally-grown vegetables and gives them to city residents who may not have access to (or the money to buy) fresh produce. The Fair Food program, with branches like the Restaurant Project, fosters connections between family farmers and an ever-growing network of chefs, caterers and grocers. The “Buy Fresh Buy Local Campaign” aims to find locally grown products in the marketplace. Best of all, the Fair Food farm stand inside the Reading Terminal Market carries products from organic and sustainable farms throughout the southeast Pennsylvania region.
Become a Window Box Gardener!
Intimidated by gardening? Is space an issue? Think containers! Many vegetables are easily grown in pots or window boxes as long as they have enough room for root development. It doesn’t take a super green thumb to get decent results. Venture beyond mint and parsley. Try
PRHGreenSp ce lettuce and peppers. They are shallow rooted and only need a container 6 inches in diameter with eight-inch soil depth. A tip from container gardeners (my next-door-neighbor is a pro) is to use “soil-less” potting mix. It drains quickly, is lightweight and free from soil-borne diseases and weed seeds. Remember to hydrate. If you’re using a hose, make sure the water is cool before you water, especially if your hose sits in the sun.
Green Restaurants
Many restaurants grow their vegetables and herbs on-site. Now THAT’S fresh. Philadelphia has some great restaurants dedicated to the green movement. The White Dog Café has become a local sustainable rock
That means a greater selection and lower prices than local supermarkets.
Buy a Bunny!
Finally, when it comes to eating green, my bunny Jumper Chloe Mayland is a natural pro. I think of her as a “precycler” since she is skilled at eliminating a lot of my veggie waste. Her enthusiasm for polishing off her greens has even inspired my 5-year-old to eat his veggies! (“See? Bunny is eating HER veggies?”) Jumper does a dandy job on the carrot tops I used to just throw away and when my parsley “garden” really takes off in my window box, she is there to handle the leftovers. Bunnies like Jumper also love Echinacea and alfalfa and eat everything
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HUNGRY YET? star in this arena. Not only is the food amazing, it uses only ingredients from farms that pasture-feed livestock and practice sustainable farming methods. Its seafood comes from sustainable sources and the wine list includes selections from American vineyards. How about Philadelphia’s Pita Pit? It was named the first certified green restaurant in Philadelphia by the Green Restaurant Association. They minimize the waste by eliminating Styrofoam, recycling and installing water aerators to use less water. Their silverware is made of corn and is 100% biodegradable. Take-out deliveries arrive by bike (no unnecessary fuel). Another green company, Organica forms organic co-ops throughout the Delaware Valley and members order locally grown produce online year-long.
from broccoli to kale to mustard greens. They also love bits of fruits and even weeds. When you weed your container garden and find yourself with a handful of dandelion greens, your bunny will be waiting to make it all disappear. Warning: All that green eating keeps Jumper regular. Not to worry! You can use the round little pellets in a compost pile, which will then fertilize your garden. Bunny also gives you another reason to visit your local farm since you need to stock up on her main diet staple: hay. Green eating aside, I have to squeeze in the fact that bunnies are wonderful pets and they’re awfully cute, too. Our bunny is a big part of our family and she’s a great inspiration for my family to keep it green. In fact, she has been one of our best “green” teachers so far. ■
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PRHGreenSp ce
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by Jessica Lista
ll Philadelphians love unwrapping their favorite Tastykake treat whether it’s a Butterscotch Krimpet, cookie bar or Kandy Kake. These sweet treats, a Philadelphia staple, have been satisfying our deepest dessert cravings for 96 years. Unfortunately, Philadelphia has seen many of its most-loved food companies leave town including Philly favorite Whitman Chocolates. When the Tasty Baking Company decided to transition away from its home of 88 years at 2831 Hunting Park Avenue in Nicetown, they decided to keep their headquarters in Philadelphia, protecting hundreds of local jobs. On May 4, 2010, The Tasty Baking Company moved to a state-of-theart, 345,000 square-foot facility in Philadelphia’s Navy Yard. “The opening of the new bakery – and its place as the greenest bakery in the world – is the successful culmination of our manufacturing strategy to transform the brand,” said Charles P. Pizzi, President and Chief Executive Officer of Tasty Baking Company. This new one-story facility will provide more proficient baking and a “straight line flow” from the baking to the packing to the warehouse to create the high-quality and well-known Tastykake products. This new baking factory emphasizes water conservation, energy-efficient heating and cooling, and will soon install a solar-paneled roof. At this time, this new facility is baking and packaging Tastykake Krimpets, Kandy Kakes, cupcakes, cookie bars and pies. At the official celebration of the Tasty Baking Company relocation, deemed as “Tastykake’s Moving Day,” 250 officials flocked to the new site for the official ribbon cutting to commemorate the sweet treat that many of them indulged in as children. During a video played at the reopening, Governor Ed Rendell called Tastykake “as much a fabric of Philadelphia as Ben Franklin...and the cheesesteak.” “While the grand opening event for the new Tastykake bakery signals the completion of this important capital improvement project, truly it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the corporate history of the brand,” Pizzi concluded. “As a company, we believe we are well-prepared and poised to seize this moment and build upon the momentum of this successful project.” Since 1914, the Tasty Baking Company has been satisfying Philly’s sweet tooth and plans to keep doing so for years to come.
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.
Wouldn’t it be nice if your Utility Company paid “We can’t you fight for a change? “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
David Spitzberg traffic—not just channeling it—along
crime but we can believer in executive Delaware Avenue through Mass Transit expansion—a re-engineering of the area provide more Brace yourself. Your ship may be comimprovement programs providing presence. Asking the handle Stadiums, Navy Yard, Casinos incentives for HVAC, Lighting, Drives ing in! You could to have an the opportunity positive opportunities and the Waterfront. and Motors, Refrigeration Food to not only reduce your utility costs but rightand questions on the Services. also accumulate some cash. To start, LOOKING BACK to young the Federal Government tax theseYou can’t visit your utility’s web and then scene. Priorsite to joining theconChamber,Will Schweiker incentives? There isn’t a clear answer tact a representative toasget specifics, Governor—the Philadelphians,” served Pennsylvania’s have people walking the Internal including availability ofGovernor funds. in the nationbecause, only to hold theat this point, Revenue Service doesn’t have an offiAs an example, position let’s take a look at he added. as a direct result of the on eggs. No gray by
cial position. some of the Philadelphia September 11, Electric 2001 terrorist attacks on Consult with your tax adviAs for the Business Privilege Tax (6.5% of sor and be sure to visit my firm’s web Company (PECO) programs. At thewhen time Governor the United States Tom net profits), Schweiker says it’s burdensome site from ofa this writing, the utility company is Ridge resigned to head the Office of time to time for updates. tax law and listening to the concerns ofresidential his offering rebates for purchasHomeland Security. membership is paramount at the es Chamber. of Energy Star products: David M. Spitzberg has been seen and In July 2002, Gov. Schweiker led one of “Our experienced public policy staff works heard onnational various Philadelphia media out● Refrigerators ($75) the most successful mine rescues in in the best interest of the entire business lets where he has been called upon to ● Clothes Washer history ($100)when he oversaw a 77-hour operation community, whether it is lobbying for tax provide tax Mr. Spitzberg has ● Room Air Conditioners ($50) in Quecreek, Somerset County that savedexpertise. nine reform or developing relationships between “When in they came up, it was the most been quoted or referenced numerous ● Freezers ($75) trapped coal miners. elected officials and members of the incredible feeling for everyone. We still ● Dishwashers ($50) national publications and online journals. Chamber,” he said. “We are holding our own At about 9 pm on July 24, 2002, a work talk from time to time…get together on ● Contractor-Installed Central Air He has been listed among “The 100 Most but we can enjoy more with a better tax law.” crewor of$300) nine men from the Quecreek Coal the anniversary of the event. It’s a religious Conditioners ($225 Influential CPAs,” “Top 40 Advisors to Mine inadvertently drilled into an adjacent experience for many of the families and ON THE HORIZON Know During a Recession,” The 10 entire “Mosttown.” abandoned mine, freeing an estimated 50-60 rescuers…the If you have Schweiker said there are three big fronts thatan older, working, second Influential CPAs” in the area of Tax and million gallons of even water into the active mine. refrigerator or freezer, PECO may can enliven South Philadelphia: ON A PERSONAL NOTE has been Nominated among the “Top give you $35 for The the men unitwere andtrapped haul itin an air pocket within Schweiker’s ties to Philadelphia go back to 50 IRS Representation Practitioners” by a 48-52-inch coal seam 240 feet underground The Navy Yard, which has more developable away for free. his parents - both of whom were raised in row for more than 3 days. CPA Magazine. He may be reached at real estate than Center City; the IfPort, whose you’re in business, there also may homes, he smiles. His father graduated North expansion will create an estimated 14,000 be opportunities for profit. Check with David.Spitzberg@CPAforBusiness.com or As pumps worked to discharge the Catholic High and LaSalle University. His new jobs; and the Casinos, which would PECO to learn about upgrades and 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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Down the Shore
P   RHWriters Block
Get a Taste of Philly
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Footprints by David W. Cava
R
emember the excitement you felt as a kid the night before going to the beach? I recall waking up early, eating dry cereal out of disposable paper bowls and helping my parents pack the car so tight that I barely had a place to sit on the ride down. Now, many years removed from childhood, I still can recall those feelings as I load the minivan for our own family vacation at the beach. My grandfather loved taking his family to the beach for a week in the summer. Not having a car, he and my grandmother packed up the kids and took a ferry over to Camden to catch the Pennsylvania/
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P RHWriters Block “My grandfather loved taking his family to the beach for a week in the summer.” the Atlantic or see the Boardwalk light up the night sky, I am just as excited now as I was when I was a child. I see and share old experiences through the eyes of my own children and know that they, too, will carry these memories with them throughout their lives. The streets of our favorite shore towns all have been repaved. Many of the homes and motels have been rebuilt or remodeled. And most of the bakeries from yesteryear are all but forgotten. But at the start of family week in Wildwood Crest, N.J. you’ll find a plate of freshly baked jelly donuts on the kitchen table. ■
photo by Tony the Misfit
Reading Seashore Line into Wildwood. First thing every morning, my grandpop would buy donuts from the nearest bakery. To this day, jelly donuts at the beach remind my mother of her dad and the time spent with her family down the shore. Whether it’s a sandy old umbrella in the back of the garage or the musty odor from a local hardware store, we all have triggers that remind us of our trips to the beach. Years of ocean-dampened hotel rooms, pull-out beds, salt water taffy and Mack’s Pizza top my list of personal memories. When I hear the crash of
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P RHfashion
0 - 24 Months
Metro Men’s Clothing
A Risk Worth Taking by Linda Lam
Y
ou may have been to a men’s clothing store before, but you have never been to one like this. A small boutique with a black-framed front window sits in the lively East Passyunk Avenue commercial row, close to Tasker Street. Owner Tom Longo, who never worked in retail, says he took a big risk when he opened up a boutique-style shop for men on October 9, 2009. At the time, the nation was undergoing a huge economic struggle.
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“I had to take everything I had, max out every credit card to do it, because there were no business loans,” Tom confesses.
P RHfashion “I had to take everything I had, max out every credit card to do it, because there were no business loans,” Tom confesses. The opportunities that some of the brands provided him during that tough time led him in a direction he could only have dreamed of. He knew if it were not for the economic downfall, he would not have been so lucky to partner with brands like Ben Sherman, Penguin, Scotch & Soda, Report Collection, Stone Rose, 2xist, Kangol Hats and many more. Many of these oneof-a-kind brands are rare and hard to find in Philly. Tom also got lucky with the fixtures that adorn the boutique. Through Craigslist, he found out that Dockers in the King of Prussia Mall was going out
of business and selling everything in the store. Tom collected lamps, cabinets, tables, hangers and more to give his store its unique flare. Longo admits, “All these things would’ve killed me to buy them. I could have never afforded the quality that I got.” The shop transformed from an ugly raw space to a vintagemeets-modern look. Along with the brick wall and the fixtures, small details such as a doggie dish and water bowl make Metro Men’s Clothing welcoming to customers. The majority of the shop’s clientele is local. Tom tries to select clothing lines that suit every taste. “Most of the merchandise is dress casual,” he assures. It’s a brand new neighborhood. n
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P RHfashion
Button
up by Lauren Gordon
Men
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With stores like Metro Men’s joining our city’s stylish lineup of boutiques, there’s no need to dash to department stores to update your closet. But where to begin? How do you know what look is right for you? There are several must-have looks this season that can help you pave the way to a more fashionable you. Be sure to rock the hottest of colors: orange, whites, plaids and all shades of blue Embrace accessorizing: don colored sunglasses, buttons and sew-on patches to spruce up your plain outfits Roll it up: keep your tees, your button-downs and even your jeans rolled up for a laid back,
P RHfashion lazy-days-of-summer look For the seasoned male fashionista, try to snag a pair of harem pants. Paired with a fitted blazer, t-shirt and low-top sneakers, harem pants have come a long way from the MC Hammer days You can never go wrong with a classic. This summer, jean jackets and jean shirts make for a relaxed summer look. Be careful not to overload the jean look. Break it up with a fitted colored t-shirt
Women
Don’t have time to cruise the fashion blogs? Here are a few tips to help you survive the season and look sassy while you do it! Colors rock this season, especially violets, greys, dusty roses, aurora, coral and blues. Anything from the earthy color palette.
Though military style outfits have not vanished from the scene, the sea-themed sytle still has a strong presence this season. Be on the lookout for blue and white stripes that dominate the outfit. Also, don’t be afraid to boldly wear stripes in your accessories. Just don’t wear all your stripy pieces at once! Despite the warm weather, the “cool” thing to do is button up. Wear button down, fitted shirts with tailored skirts, pants and fitted jeans for a year-round trend. When fall rolls around, velvet, love it or hate it, is back with a vengeance. Wear it crushed like a 90’s rocker, elegant in a fitted floor-length gown, or in small spurts of accessories like headbands and handbags. The Wild West makes a comeback with stylish moccasins, suede fringed boots, feathered headbands, country floral prints and a classic denim-leather combination. n
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P   RHHEALTH
7
A Cut above by Angela DiGerolamo photo by Hector Valentin
T
he decision to have cosmetic surgery is a big one. Once you’ve decided to make a change, a whole new set of worries arise. What should I have done? What should I avoid? What are the risks? The most vital question of all? Who can I trust to do the procedure? Dr. Steven L. Davis understands your concerns and is ready to make you feel confident and assured with your deci-
ed .
ur
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P RHHEALTH
sions. A board-certified plastic surgeon and Chair of Plastic Surgery at Kennedy Memorial Hospital, Dr. Davis was voted “Top Doc” of plastic surgery in Southern New Jersey. One of his most popular procedures is breast augmentation. “A few years back, the concept was only to make the breasts larger but with today’s advanced silicone and saline implants, I’m actually able to ‘cup craft’ and lift breasts as well as restore fullness and a sense of perkiness to the breasts. “After weight loss, pregnancies or simply with age, breasts can become droopy or sag down,” Davis continues. “But with today’s implants, I can restore and improve the breast’s shape and feel.” Dr. Davis says that today’s options entail minimal incisions, which help assure a fast recovery. In addition to breast augmentation, Davis specializes in a variety of cosmetic procedures including Liposuction, Tummy Tucks, Eyelid, Neck and Face Lifts.
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Untitled-1 1
2/11/10 12:09 PM
Nurse Practitioners
in women’s health ➜ What is a Nurse Practitioner?
by Danielle M. Dittrich, RN, CRNP
practicing with Dr. Richard Dittrich
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According to the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (2007), Nurse Practitioners are licensed independent healthcare providers with training in primary and/or specialty care. Similar to Physician Assistants (PAs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are considered mid-level care providers or physician extenders. The most notable difference between the Nurse Practitioner and the Doctor is that Nurse Practitioners are not trained to perform surgery. Nurse Practitioners are unique in their emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, while following standard medical practice for diagnosis and management of acute and chronic illness.
P RHHEALTH
✚
EE ES FR MAT TI ES
➜ What are the roles and responsibilities of the Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse practitioners may practice autonomously, however, they often work in collaboration with your Doctor and other healthcare providers to provide you the best possible care. Nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose and treat patients independently. Nurse practitioners are also licensed to prescribe patient medications as well as order, conduct and interpret laboratory tests. The roles of the nurse practitioner include patient educator, counselor and patient advocate, in addition to the classic role of diagnostician.
● – Danielle Dittrich is a Board Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, which focus in the care of pregnancy as well as contraception, menstrual irregularities and women’s cancer including cancer of the cervix, uterus, ovaries and breasts. Born at Methodist Hospital, Danielle recently moved back to Philadelphia to join her father, Dr. Richard Dittrich, in practice. Danielle Dittrich trained at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. Before moving back to Philadelphia, she lived in the Western Highlands of Guatemala where she started a women’s clinic focused on pregnancy care and women’s cancer screening. Schedule your appointment with Danielle at her office, 1315 Wolf Street, by calling 215.465.3000. ● – Dr. Richard Dittrich has been practicing Obstetrics & Gynecology in the South Philadelphia area for 25 years. He has been an active member
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➜ What is the training of the Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are first trained as Bachelors prepared nurses (BSN). Most nurses work in the hospital, office or clinic setting as a bedside nurse before pursuing graduate level training to become a Nurse Practitioner. Your Nurse Practitioner may be Masters or Doctorate prepared. Currently, a Masters of Science in Nursing is the entry level into practice. In the future, most Nurse Practitioners will have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Yes, you can have a Nurse Doctor or Doctor Nurse—whichever phrasing you prefer. n
Call Cosimo 267.784.9270
of the staff at Methodist Hospital & served as 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 1313/15 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 Jevederm injections. We currently have available a variety of Omega-3 nutraceuticals formulated for every life stage. We also offer customized weight loss programs to help you lose safely over a specific period of time. Contact 215.465.3000 or 856.435.9090 or visit our website at www.wellnesscenterpa.com for more information.
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CATCH ALL
P RHTIPs FROM THE PROS
THE ACTION
& rder LawO Save Your Home from Foreclosure
by Frank C. DePasquale Jr., Esquire
Q: I am three months behind on my mortgage, am I going to lose my house?
A: 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 80
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Not necessarily but you need to act promptly as you are perilously close to a foreclosure action by your bank. Your bank must provide you with written notice of the amount you owe before they foreclose as well as a list of credit counselors to help you cure your default. There are emergency loans available but few people qualify for them.
Q: What can I do? A: If the bank files for foreclosure, the Philadelphia Court system has set up something called a “Conciliation Program” to bring together banks and their borrowers to informally attempt to work out of your default. Volunteer lawyers, credit counselors and sometimes a Judge will assist in this process. Unfortunately, this process is purely voluntary and banks cannot be compelled to agree to a workout proposal.
Legal
Q: Do I need an attorney? A: You need to immediately consult with
a lawyer who specializes in Consumer Protection law who will be able to review your loan documents and advise you of your rights and what avenues to pursue to save your home.
Q:
What is the Foreclosure Prevention Program?
A:
In 2009, Court of Common Pleas Judge Annette Rizzo developed the foreclosure prevention program to help keep Philadelphia homeowners in their homes. Under this program, when the city files a foreclosure complaint, the homeowner schedules an appointment with a housing counselor (services are free) for a conciliation conference before the home is put up for sheriff’s sale. To find out whether you qualify, and for more information, please call the SAVE YOUR HOME PHILLY HOTLINE at 215-334-HOME (215-334-4663).
Take Your Building Supply Shopping Experience to the Next Level! 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
Legal Questions
Legal questions for Frank DePasquale? Email him at info@gohomephilly.com or mail to PRH Law & Order, PO Box 54786, Phila., PA 19148. Please include your name, address & phone number for verification purposes. PRH will not publish your last name.
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P   RHspotlight
RowHome Reunions
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P RHspotlight
Epiphany classmates Randy Scotti, Frank Anastasi, Mike Massimi and Tony Santini
Danny, Anna, Renee and Anthony Fanty
Some of the Epiphany guys get together at the Reunion.
The Class of 1975 from St. Maria Goretti and St. John Neumann High Schools recently reunited at the Atlantic City Hilton’s Ballroom for a night of food, fun and memories. Hosted by fellow classmate Joe Sarnese, the Ballroom was reminiscent of a Saturday night dance at Neumann’s gym back in the day.
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P RHHEALTH
Got a splinter?
Peel a
banana According to the experts, natural remedies are better for your health and easier to use than most first-aid products. And you don’t have to wonder where to get them. Most are available at health food stores or on your grocer’s shelf.
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➜ Burns Used by Cleopatra more than 2,000 years ago, aloe (Aloe vera) relieves pain, speeds healing time and even prevents blisters and scarring. Experts say it’s best to use a live aloe plant rather than store-bought gels. Indigestion Papaya. This tropical fruit contains the enzyme papain, which aids digestion by helping your body break down proteins. Chewable papaya tablets are available at most natural food stores and work instantly. Or eat a wedge of fresh papaya for dessert to get a jump start on the discomfort.
➜ Muscle Pain
➜ Splinters
The minerals magnesium and calcium reduce both soreness and cramps. Magnesium has a tranquilizing effect on your muscles and calcium relaxes your nervous system, which helps ease pain. Experts advise taking 200 mg of magnesium and 200 mg of calcium two to three times a day until the pain is gone.
Enzymes in banana peels pull splinters out of your skin. Use surgical tape to attach a piece of fresh, ripe banana peel--skinside up, pulp-side down--over the splinter before you go to bed and leave it on overnight. In the morning, the splinter should be sitting on the surface of your skin so you can pull it out. If a splinter is deeply embedded, you may need to apply fresh peel for another night or two.
➜ Nausea When you’re nauseated, nothing works better than ginger. The herb stops nausea and even vomiting by increasing digestive fluids, neutralizing stomach acid and reducing stomach spasms.
➜ Tension Headache
Peppermint essential oil (Mentha piperita) is one of the most effective headache remedies around, experts say. Place a drop of the oil on the tip of both your index fingers and then use those fingers to rub your temples for three minutes, up to three times a day.
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P RHHEALTH
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We’ve Got Chemistry by Brian Sheehan
T
he Class of 1974 from St. Maria Goretti High School and St. John Neumann High School recently joined forces to make a difference at their school. For the past two years, Denise Foderaro has been working in conjunction with SS. Neumann-Goretti High School to update the school’s science labs, which date back to the 1950s. Together with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and several private foundations, students cut the ribbon on a brand new Biology lab that includes updated chairs, desks and other stateof-the-art amenities like running water. Through generous donations, the group was able to raise an additional $30,000 to kick in toward books and other supplies.
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P RHHEALTH “The chemistry between our classes at Neumann-Goretti is a science lesson in spontaneous combustion,” Foderaro says. Having spent the past two years helping the school update its science labs, Foderaro hopes that ongoing donations will help refurbish the chemistry lab in time for the Class of ’74’s next reunion in 2011. By recruiting volunteers to write letters to other Class of 1974 graduates, these alums hope to continue to raise funds for their aptly titled “We’ve Got Chemistry” campaign. The group is coordinating Raffles and other fundraisers over the upcoming months and is appealing, in particular, to graduates in the health and science fields to join the effort.
“Through generous donations, the group was able to raise an additional $30,000 to kick in toward books and other supplies.”
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P RHSCHOOLYARD
The lowdown on
Good Credit Bad Credit No Credit Don't Sweat it
Our Pop-pop Will Never Steer You Wrong! Logan & Ava
lead safety by Lisa Picozzi
I
f you own a house that was built before 1978 and you’re planning to renovate it, brace yourself. The rules of engagement have changed. In April, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made a sweeping change in lead safety regulations, which now require your hired contractors to be certified in its Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program. 88
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P   RHSCHOOLYARD
Vincent Gangemi Funeral Home, Inc.
James L. Guercio Funeral Director
Ann Gangemi Secretary/Treasurer
Vincent C. Gangemi, Jr. Supervisor
Serving the Community Since 1937 Vincent Gangemi Sr., Founder Vincent C. Gangemi Jr., Supervisor
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Contractors, maintenance workers, painters and other specialty trades people including electricians, carpenters and plumbers, must complete an eight-hour RRP course offered by an EPA-accredited training provider. They also must be re-certified every five years. In a nutshell, the RRP class stresses to contractors the dangers of lead dust and fumes and stipulates that if they disturb more than six square feet of interior painted surface or 20 square feet of exterior surface in an older home, they must contain their work areas, minimize dust and clean up thoroughly after their work is complete. Â rowhome magazine
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P RHSCHOOLYARD w w w . K i l l i a n p r o p e r t i e s . c o m FOR SALES AND RENTALS, PLEASE CALL 215-805-1226
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HOMES final
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Lead poisoning is most harmful to the developing brains and nervous systems of children under six years of age – a particularly vexing problem since they are the household members most likely to crawl on floors and touch low windowsills that harbor lead-laden dust.
Why all the hubbub about lead? For centuries, lead pigments were added to both interior and exterior paints because it made them significantly more durable and moisture-resistant. However, medical studies have since shown that this metal additive is a dangerous neurotoxin that can negatively affect anyone who ingests it. When it comes to older home renovations, exposures come from sanding, scraping, burning and disturbing painted surfaces, then having hand-tomouth contact or inhaling the resulting dust or fumes. Lead poisoning is most harmful to the developing brains and nervous systems of children under six years of age – a particularly vexing problem since they are the household members most likely to crawl on floors and touch low windowsills that harbor lead-
laden dust. In fact, according to some estimates, as many as one in five urban youths has an elevated lead level. Even fetuses can be affected by lead if their mothers accidentally ingest it during pregnancy. According to health experts, elevated blood-lead levels in young children can cause speech delays, hyperactivity, Attention Deficit Disorder, learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, neurological and renal damage, stunted growth, anemia, hearing loss and cognitive deficits. In adults, it can manifest in reproductive and digestive problems, muscle and joint pain, pregnancy difficulties, nerve disorders, memory and concentration problems and high blood pressure. At high levels, it can cause convulsions, coma and even death. ➟
P RHSCHOOLYARD A new renovation experience You can expect to see the following new practices and procedures in place when you hire an RRP-compliant contractor to work on your next job:
➜ Prior to beginning work in your home, your contractor is now required to give you a copy of the EPA pamphlet entitled “Renovate Right,” which will outline the new regulations for you.
➜ Warning
signs must be posted telling you and visitors to your home to keep out of the workspace because of the danger of lead exposure.
Plastic sheeting will be hung and taped ➜ securely to section off the work area.
HEPA vacuums will be used to control ➜ dust and debris.
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On an ongoing basis, your contractor will ➜
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sealed and properly disposed of.
clean his/her clothing and shoes so as not to track dust into other areas upon leaving and re-entering the workspace.
➜ After
completing the work, the contractor will wipe and wash floors, furniture and other surfaces that may have been affected until no dust, debris or residue remains.
Tempted to cut corners on these new regulations? Don’t be. If you own a home built prior to 1978, you can and should assume that it contains lead and the risks to you and your family are simply not worth it. What’s more, EPA will be conducting spot checks, reviewing renovation records and reports, and responding to individual tips and complaints to ensure compliance. Any contractors found to be noncompliant face penalties of up to $32,500 per violation, per day. Keep in mind that if you are a DIY-er, these regulations do not apply to you but you’ll still want to educate yourself on minimizing lead exposure and using safe procedures to protect your family during any renovation projects you undertake. n
To learn more
Visit EPA online at www.epa.gov/lead or call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD. Fourth in a series from Philadelphia MomsLikeMe.com. Join the conversation today.
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P RHSCHOOLYARD
A
RowHome Remembers by Tony Santini
T-Ball
hhhh, Spring! The birds are chirping. The sky is blue. And the “ping” of aluminum bats summons the start of another T-Ball season. Generations of littleleaguers have rounded the dusty plates at fields throughout the region but, as many will attest, the game itself has significantly changed. Back in the day, ‘organized sports’ as we know them today were non-existent. If we wanted to play baseball, we knocked on the doors of eight of our friends, grabbed our gear and met nine kids from another neighborhood at an open patch of grass down at Marconi Park. Our team bore a striking resemblance to the group of kids in the movie Sandlot. Not so, today. Kids in matching jerseys meet in the dugouts at real baseball fields and the word “organized” takes on a whole new meaning. Welcome to the world of modern-day T-Ball. As a parent, it’s the perfect chance to introduce your budding athlete to the fundamentals of America’s beloved pastime. You teach them how to hold a bat, throw and catch a ball. You explain the “technical“
jargon surrounding the game. You slip in words like ‘sportsmanship’ and ‘hustle.’ During a moment of weakness, you decide to volunteer to be a coach or a manager. You’re going to be at all their games, anyway, you convince yourself. But are you really prepared for the task at hand? Coaching at this age level doesn’t involve just baseball. It involves psychology. Like, how are you going to deal with separation anxiety when young players are asked to play defense in the outfield. Then there are those wardrobe blips. Big pants on little bodies can interfere with that run to home plate when they unravel at a child’s feet. And emotional meltdowns are common among temperamental players who do not subscribe to the axiom, ‘There’s no crying in baseball.’ But hats off to the volunteers! No matter what season, sports are a rite of passage for both adults and children. They create perfect bonding opportunities. And lifelong memories. Just grab a few ice packs and a couple of safety pins and meet me on the field of dreams. n
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“Sta ndin g Ovation”
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Corner
with Mark Casasanto
Driving Coach Mark
L
et’s face it. No one likes to just cruise along. Whether you’re at work, on a highway or on the path of life itself. Then BAM! The smooth sailing and cruise control comes to an immediate and unexpected stop. Not even the courtesy of the caveat “Slow down! Dangerous curves ahead!’ It’s a terrible irony that not so long ago, I quietly pined for downtime. Okay, so maybe I didn’t pine so quietly. Still, I definitely needed to unplug and relax. Having survived the winter from hell, during which the heaviest of snow days did not impede me in my chosen occupation, I had precious little time to sneak in a couple of mental health days before the rigors of the spring soccer, Phillies and event schedules took control of my life again. Soon, the daddy cab would roll with the GPS creatively coordinating every stop from early in the morning to long after midnight. But, as mother always said, ‘Be careful what you wish for, my son. You may not be happy with the end result.’ It was a pretty Saturday. A sunny, breezy day that teased of the splendor of spring yet to come. Making good on a promise to my wife and daughter, there I stood on the parents’ sideline readying myself to enjoy the beauty of a day free of any pressing commitments - work, social or otherwise. My wife was at the helm of the team across the field and my daughter was beginning to burn up the pitch in search of victory. Not five minutes into the match, however, my short-lived sea of tranquility hit a rogue wave. This seasoned soccer coach never saw it coming.
Any athlete will tell you that when it happens, you know it immediately. Go ahead and add off- duty coaches to that list. There is a discernable difference between a tweaked hamstring and the moment of truth when the snap, crackle and ultimate “pop” of a serious injury dictates how you’ll spend the next several months of not-so-quality life. On this day built for parental and spousal support - and a cigar for self-relaxation - why I chose to be the only parent willing to give chase to an out-of-bounds soccer ball is the $25,000 question. And down goes Coach Mark… So there I was - muddy, embarrassed and grossly disfigured. The quadriceps tendon in my right knee ruptured and with it went my quad muscle, kneecap and any type of command and control the leg below my knee once knew. PRICELESS doesn’t even begin to describe this one. With a silly manliness, I dragged myself to a position closer to my car where I could watch the remainder of the match. After breaking the news to the Mrs. at half-time and making alternate plans for my horrified daughter, our travel arrangements to an emergency room ensued. With me in the driver’s seat of my own car! Repeat after me: “Left foot, help the right foot!” That was my mantra, as the lifeless right limb did nothing to respond to my wishful commands. With tears streaming down my face and a doctor keeping cell phone vigil, we were guided air-traffic-controller-style to the most accessible emergency room this wounded warrior could safely manage. Early indications had immediate surgery on the horizon. The timetable on the road to full recovery was horrendously scary! Coach Mark’s wild ride had come to an end. There is no way to prepare for the depression that consumes you when a traumatic injury steals the very fabric of your being. To shift from 115 miles per hour daily doing what you love most to a dead standstill is taxing on the mind. Devastating to the point where you lose interest in just about everything. No movement, no weight bearing, no outside world, not a single luxury! Still, for all the lows that have come, gone and are yet to be, I realize just how rich I am with family and friends. People who stayed up late to talk me through the dark, lonely and painful nights; who made thankless trips to buy and administer enough ice to construct an igloo, walk the dog or fix the central air conditioner. There were plenty of friends who jumped to lift me up off the mat, not only in the physical sense, but mentally as well. And for the countless hours of transport to doctors visits, physical therapy and trips to the office just to earn a living, a mere thank you is simply not enough. In more ways than the stated obvious, you are responsible for Driving Coach Mark. n
BY JOHNSON CONTROLS
www.campanohvac.com
The following tips are brought to you by Campano HVAC
Did you know that 43 percent of your utility bill goes towards heating and cooling? Here are a few tips to keep your expenses down and your system in tip-top shape year-long.
➜ Keep all filters clean and replace as needed. ➜ Make sure all vents are clear and not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
➜ Be sure to bleed trapped air from hot-water radiators a few times a season.
➜ After cooking or bathing, leave exhaust fans running for an additional 20 minutes.
➜ Block out the hot sun during the warmer seasons by closing shades. ➜ During the winter season, let the sunlight in to warm up your home. ➜ Think minimal. Keep your thermostat at the highest or lowest possible setting according to your families’ comfort level.
➜ Common sense, commitment and optimal use of natural resources
can reduce your energy bills and keep your home safe and energyefficient.
Call Campano at 215.238.0570 or www.campanohvac.com for more information. rowhome magazine
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PRESSED P RH
Dorette Rota Jackson
RowHome
Dreamweavers by Dorette Rota Jackson
We decide on breakfast at Penrose. My mother orders her waist-trimming one-egg omelet. Dawn and I wrestle with the cream chipped beef option. You get the beef. I’ll get the pancakes and we’ll share. Dawn resolves the dilemma. My mother objects to the fat content. Ends up eating half of ours anyway. We all know the drill. Ann-Marie from the Ad Agency is having breakfast with her twins in the booth next to ours. ‘Girls, I have a movie for you…Standing Ovation…It’s going to be huge…Producers are from Packer Park…’ Dawn is all ears. My mother and I tear into her pancakes the second she looks away. ‘I will give you a call next week,’ Ann-Marie says. ‘I’ll arrange lunch.’ We meet the girls at Popi’s. Jennifer Tini used to work there before she followed her heart to the Hollywood Hills. We talk about their movie Standing Ovation. About Producer Diane Kirman’s belief in the project. How Diane hand-picked Jennifer to head the team. How Krystal, an actor and dancer, had such an eye for detail that they hired her as choreographer and costume designer. How Monique’s film background and ambition led her to a co-producing role. How the Mary Anne Claro Talent Agency brought them all together. We talk about their dinner at the home of Executive Producer Jim Brolin and his wife Barbra Streisand. ‘She wanted to know
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about row homes. ‘Are they houses all glued together?’ she asked. We laugh. “We all believe in positive attraction. If you believe, it will manifest.” Monique attempts an explanation for the reason they were drawn together to produce this movie. But Dawn and I understand. I run outside to the parking lot & pop my trunk. I grab a handful of wishrocks and head back to the table to hand them out to the girls. Dawn & I explain how we created the wishrocks a dozen years ago. We wanted to let kids know that dreams do come true. That anything is possible if you believe in yourself. How the wishrocks are supposed to remind them of their dreams. We all stare at each other. The connection to the movie‘s message is uncanny. ‘We are spreading this message to kids across the country,” Jennifer continues. “We perform at dance recitals, schools…promoting the movie’s premiere on July 16th...Diane wants kids to give back. She wants them to ‘Stand up for something. Get them involved with charitable causes.” The plot thickens. We point to the place on the wishrock package that reads: ‘Believe in yourself. Follow your dreams. Reach out to others along the way.’ We all stare at each other again. No one questions the reason why we are all sitting together in Popi’s that weekday afternoon. Anything is possible if you believe in your dreams. n
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