YOU CAN’T BUY HAPPINESS
BUT YOU CAN
BUY LOCAL AND THAT’S SORTA THE
SAME! BUY LOCAL. BE HAPPY.
Real People Real Stories
APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2019 VOL 43_ISSUE 53_2019 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM
A Heartfelt Thanks to our Medical Community WWW.GOHOMEPHILLY.COM
A Taste For Tradition 700 Haddon Avenue Collingswood, NJ 08108 Call 856-854-2156 for reservations w ww . kitconcafe . com
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Sunday: 12pm – 9pm Vo Sout ted “De he li 2013 rn Italia sh” Zaga n Far e, t Ra ting
Diner’s Choice Winner 2014- OpenTable.com Voted One of the Top 10 Restaurants in the Philadelphia Area Zagat 2013 Exclusive Caterer of Fralinger String Band, Contact: Catering@kitconcafe.com or 856-854-2156
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❦ Large selection of Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands
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VOLUME _43 ISSUE 53_ 2019 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM
INSIDETHIS ISSUE
APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2019
21_ SALUTE TO SERVICE
In Loving Memory of our friend Bob Shannon Jr. Quaker City String Band January 14, 1948 - March 5, 2019
40_ HEALTH
Vincera Rehab Victory Defines Us! Home to a fleet of world-class sports & rehab technologies trusted by athletes of all levels by John Nacchio
42_ REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations A heartfelt thanks to our medical community for new beginnings Michael Liciardello Frankie LaMacchia Gina Gannone Donna Lamaine
56_ MENU
Diana Sabater An apple tree grows in Hunting Park by Matt Kelchner
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82_ MUSIC & ARTS Framing Philly Thomas DiGilio Photography by Jane Roser
40
HEALTH
SPORTS
84_ SPORTS
Spotlight: Kitten Hayward Love for the Gloves by Stephen Pagano photo by Darryl Cobb Jr.
21
Philly
56 MENU
SALUTE TO SERVICE
82
MUSIC & ARTS 2
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
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Tony “Papa Luke” Lucidonio Founder, 1992
39 East Oregon Avenue Philadelphia, PA 215.551.5725 Get the real taste of South Philly online:
www.TonyLukes.com
VOLUME _43 ISSUE 53_ 2019 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM
REGULARS
APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2019
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6_ FROM THE PUBLISHERS
RowHome Celebrates 15 Years! Hats off to Local Businesses! Buy Local. Be Happy.
10_ NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR 1956. Broad & Snyder. The Broadway Theatre features “Away All Boats” with Jeff Chandler
12_ HANGIN’ OUT
Jennifer Tini hangs out with Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) of Game of Thrones
16_ ON THE CORNER with Mark Casasanto Feeling Good
ON THE CORNER
53_ TIPS FROM THE PROS Chemical Safety Update Never mix ammonia & chlorine bleach Courtesy of Ron Rabena Chief Client Officer / Allied Universal
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64_ BRIDES GUIDE Bianca Bonanno & Greg DiMeo I Love The Lucy by Joe Volpe
BRIDES GUIDE
MUSIC & ARTS
70_ MUSIC & ARTS
24_ LIFE
RowHome Remembers Following in my father’s footsteps by Tony Santini
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Hands On by Marialena Rago
96_ PRESSED
Lost in the Acme by Dorette Rota Jackson
ON THE COVER
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In April 2004, we launched our first issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. This edition marks our 15th year of telling the stories of the people who built our city of neighborhoods. The businesses, the readers, the dreamers and the believers. Join us!
Buy Local. Be Happy!
Real People Real Stories
REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. This issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine is dedicated to the men and women of the medical community, who mend, heal, nurture and inspire us to believe in the power of the human spirit. Thank you for answering your calling.
• G ina Gannone 4
• Donna Lamaine
These are the stories of the people whose lives have been forever changed because of you – our healthcare professionals. We thank them for sharing their personal journeys with us – putting a face to the triumphs – as we celebrate new beginnings.
• Frankie LaMacchia
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• Michael Liciardello
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2017.01.05 appzdepot - ROW HOME - 3.5x9.75 advert.pdf
VOLUME_43 ISSUE 53 APRIL
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| MAY | JUNE 2019
GOHOMEPHILLY.COM PRESIDENT | PUBLISHER
Dorette Rota Jackson VICE PRESIDENT | PUBLISHER
Dawn Rhoades EDITOR
Dorette Rota Jackson VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & PROMOTIONS
Dawn Rhoades MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
Carol Vassallo MARKETING & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Brenda Hillegas CREATIVE DIRECTOR | PRODUCTION
Omar Rubio THE BRIDES GUIDE
Joseph Volpe GREEN SPACE
Kerri-Lee Mayland COPY COORDINATOR | THE MENU
C
M
Maria Merlino
Y
LOCAL BAND CONSULTANT
CM
Albert Fortino PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrew Andreozzi Phil Kramer Maria Merlino
MY
CY
CMY
K
ACCOUNT MANAGER / PRH BUSINESS NETWORK
Michael Rhoades ACCOUNT MANAGER
Theresa Palestino NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Mike Rhoades DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Jade Rota CONTRIBUTORS Kelley Bregenzer John Nacchio Mark Casasanto Vincent R. Novello, Jr. David Cava Anthony Panvini Bryan Culver Santina Pescatore Joei DeCarlo Michael Rhoades Frank DePasquale Jr., Esq Marialena Rago Victoria DiPietro Jane Roser Liam Divon Leo Rossi Larry Gallone Anthony Santini Brett Jackson John Stabeno Matt Kelchner Geno Thackara Maria Merlino Dominique Verrecchio Ann Moschorak Robert “Woody” Woodard
PUBLISHED BY
Philadelphia RowHome Inc. P.O. Box 54786 Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 | Fax – 215.462.9770 www.gohomephilly.com | www.gohomephillyblog.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. 2019 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.
April / May / June 2019
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1/6/17
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PRH Business Spotlight
Hats Off to Local Businesses! You can’t buy happiness but you can buy local and that’s sorta the same. Buy Local. Be Happy.
THANKS TO YOU
In April 2004, we launched our first issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine. This edition marks our 15th year of telling the stories of the people who built our city of neighborhoods. The businesses, the readers, the dreamers and the believers.
photo by ANDREW ANDREOZZI
This is where our memories live. This is our Mission. We will continue to tell those stories of our past. Preserve the traditions that define us. Celebrate the accomplishments of so many who make us proud. And welcome a new generation of believers who are blazing trails for our future.
15 years and growing because we care about each other.
Dorette & Dawn River to River. One Neighborhood.
The following local businesses are represented in this photo Galdo’s Catering & Entertainment Dan Vanore / The Business The Petal Pusher Florists & Decorators The Original Tony Luke’s Ken Adams / Jack Duggan’s Pub IBEW Local 98 Cedrone’s Flowers Councilman Mark Squilla Barbara Capozzi Real Estate Monti-Rago Funeral Home New York Bakery
The Stolfo Funeral Home The Cutting Point Carolyn Vassallo / PRH Michael Rhoades / PRH Vincent R. Novello Jr. Contracting Maria Merlino / PRH D. Olivieri Jewelers William Ciampitti Jr. / Leonardo Realty South Philly Born & Raised Uncle Tomy’s Michael Giuda / KW / Selling in Philly
Philly Hot Hands Studio & Spa Pastificio Homemade Pasta Co. PHL Athletics Mark Casasanto / PRH Popi’s Italian Ristorante The Law Offices of Perry deMarco Jr. Troast Singley Insurance Agency Omar Rubio / Creative Director PRH Luca Rubio Andreozzi Photography
THEMAILBOX APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2019
DAWN & DORETTE:
After reading the article about me in RowHome, I am ‘over the moon’. Everyone – John [Nacchio], Brenda [Hillegas], your art department – did an extraordinary job in putting together such an in-depth profile. I’m honored! Your love of this distinctive community exudes from every page. AND - I’m particularly thrilled that my very special mother [Catherine Bonavitacola] is recognized. Your magazine is an extraordinary salute to the community that is South Philadelphia. I have always said that although my physical being is in New York City, my heart will always remain in South Philadelphia. Kenny Bonavitacola
DEAR PRH:
RowHome is the best around. You get to know all about local businesses in this great magazine. Carole Xyla
DEAR PRH:
[This] magazine is all about the neighborhoods, people and places you know and have grown up with. It brings back a lot of memories. Great magazine. Thank You. AJ Cook
DORETTE & DAWN:
Just read the new edition of your magazine and I have to shout out ... BRAVO. Diverse, colorful and fun. Congrats. Tony Mecca
DEAR PRH:
Thank you for the article on homemade pasta (Tony Santini / Winter 2019). It came at the perfect time as I plan to teach my grandchildren how to make homemade pasta. I will show them the article and use the recipe. Donna Meidt
DORETTE & DAWN:
Just wanted to say thank you so much for featuring Mia’s love of slime in your magazine [Winter 2019]! You girls are the best! #girlsruntheworld Dana Barone
DEAR DAWN, DORETTE & JOHN [NACCHIO]:
I wish I could adequately express my thanks for the beautiful, heartwarming and honorable article that you published in your magazine about my brother Kenny [Winter 2019]. When I opened up my copy, I had tears streaming down my face reading all about my brother’s trajectory from his beloved home in South Philadelphia to the world of fashion in New York City. Growing up with my big brother, there was no doubt he was destined for stardom! “His passion for fashion” began at such a young age that it was obvious to all who knew him that the world of fashion was his calling and true life’s purpose. What I also loved about the article was the importance of family woven throughout and how everyone in our family, especially our parents, were true role models and champions of an untiring work ethic. Kenny has also attributed his hometown roots as one of the guiding pathways to his wonderful accomplishments. He has truly embodied the spirit of remembering where you came from - no matter how famous you become. Thanks again for honoring the beautiful heart and soul of my brother, Kenny Bonavitacola. Alexis Bonavitacola
DEAR PRH:
Your magazine is awesome! I was born and raised in South Philly in a “RowHome” so it keeps me up to date and also reminds me that South Philly will always be home. Keep up the great work. Debbie Lepo
DEAR PRH:
Love your magazine. Look forward to getting it. Love the recipes, old photos, stories, etc. Is there any way you can put special dates in it for St. Nick’s Italian Festival, Jerry Blavat on 9th Street, etc? I lived at 17th & Johnston and still visit South Philly. Maria Scocca Editor’s Note: Thank you for being a loyal RowHome reader, Maria! Please like us on Facebook- facebook.com/ PhiladelphiaRowHomeMagazine- to keep track of the dates for all of our wonderful events.
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DORETTE & DAWN,
I’ve enjoyed reading ROWHOME for years, but when … the subject is a personal friend, the story becomes very special. Stephen Candeloro (New York Bakery) is that someone special… I no longer live in the ‘old neighborhood’ but every chance I get…I must go and pick up something. It’s always a surprise when I get home with a bag of rolls, bread or a couple of slices of Tomato Pie…The specifics of the story about the family business, church pizza, kids working the “collection basket” are all true but don’t necessarily tell the whole story as it unfolds now in 2019. Steve is, and has been, my lodge brother for many years. He’s active and an integral part of Shekinah Fernwood Lodge #246 and we meet at the Masonic Temple at 1 North Broad Street across from City Hall. Most of the lodges meet for dinner before the meetings begin. There is a caterer that provides the meal, including breads and/or rolls, but the Shekinah Lodge is different. We have bread from New York Bakery…A few years back, Identification Badges were made for the members…Stephen Candeloro’s badge also contains his title — “Official Lodge Baker” -- a well deserved honor. Thanks for searching Steve out and thanks for the great memories. Paul Westle
Editors Note: Thank you RowHome readers! More than 180k viewed this post on Facebook (www. facebook.com/PhiladelphiaRowHomeMagazine)! Stephen Candeloro says he’s meeting so many new neighbors who stopped by for a little slice of heavenly tomato pie and brick oven breads! Thank you for shopping at our local spots!
Please fill out the
SUBSCRIPTION CARD
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located here and drop it in the MAIL today! Your next issue of PRH will be delivered right to your doorstep! Or subscribe online at gohomephilly.com!
April / May / June 2019
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 9
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VOLUME _43 ISSUE 53_ 2019 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM
APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2019
1.
hiladelphia RowHome P Magazine’s Mark Casasanto and Niya Jones hangin’ out post show at the Ardmore Music Hall with Italian singing sensation Patrizio Buanne.
2.
angin’ out with Diane H Nader, Bruno Drake & Michelle Nader.
3.
an Liberta, Nicole AnastaD si-Liberta and Nucky pose for a wedding photo on the steps of St. Paul’s Church.
4.
Hangin’ out with Retro 5.
5.
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6.
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R owHome Rowan announces one of the musicals coming to the Kimmel Center’s 20192020 Broadway season - Escape to Margaritaville.
12.
H angin’ out with Sal and Anita on the beach in Punta Cana.
13.
renda “proposes” to B Becky at a wedding expo at SugarHouse Casino’s Event Center.
14.
J ennifer Tini hangs out with Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) of Game of Thrones.
imone Cima and S MomMom DiTonno read the Winter 2019 issue of RowHome.
15.
iaCapri meets RowG Home Ambassador Denise LaRosa.
H angin’ out with Patrick Durkin, Bruno Drake & Mario Martines.
16.
T wo of the world’s most famous Italian singers, Philadelphia’s own Bobby Rydell and Italian superstar Patrizio Buanne, at the Ardmore Music Hall.
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B reakfast with Aunt Eileen Retallick Eaves and a few of her Retallick nieces.
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orette hangs out at MugD gles’ Mug Coffee Shop in Jim Thorpe with owner Kate and her dog Charlie.
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D onna Diorio & friends celebrate Jim Moylan’s 85th birthday at Estia.
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ki trip 2019 families S (Rhoades, Everett, Caputo, Nunzio, Amorosi) hang out in the Poconos.
8.
ana Riccardi’s baby D shower at Positano Coast with Denise LaRosa and Company.
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r. Tony Evangelisto, auD thor of South Philadelphia High School, stops by with a copy of his book. hiladelphia RowHome P Magazine’s Mark Casasanto joins The Cuz, Anthony Gargano, on stage during a remote broadcast of his 97.5 Fanatic Midday Show at the 2019 Philadelphia Auto Show.
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 13
PRHON THE WATERFRONT Retirement
Business
Life
Home
Auto
Here for you in PHILADELPHIA. P # ROvIDINg# ^On YOur Side^ s # ERvIcE FOR 26 yEARs.#
At PHILADELPHIA, we’re proud to be part of the fabric of this community, helping you protect what you care about most. We consider it a privilege to serve you.
JOHN FERULLO PHILADELPHIA 215-468-4116 ferullj@nationwide.com www.ferulloinsurance.com Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Nationwide, Nationwide is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2016 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. NPR-0784AO (04/16) #
#
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by EVAN DAVIS VP & General Counsel of SugarHouse Casino
#
Betting on Bryce, Phillies and Sixers at
SUGARHOUSE
Sportsbook Serving the Community since 1937
Vincent C. Gangemi, Founder (1915-2005) Vincent C. Gangemi Jr., Supervisor Randy L. Goldy, Director James L. Guercio, Funeral Director (1954-2016)
w w w. G a n g e m i F u n e r a l H o m e . n e t Funeral Pre-Planning Available Relieve your loved ones of future responsibility for funeral expenses
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Handicapped Accessible
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
The sportsbook at SugarHouse continues to be the talk of Philly! The past few weeks saw guests enjoying true “March Mania,” ranging from shocking upsets to the eventual crowning of our new national champion. The new SugarHouse Sportsbook was at the center of all the action, showing all of the games and offering a wide variety of food and beverage specials throughout the three-week tournament. Anyone who stopped by will tell you that SugarHouse was absolutely the place to be. One lucky user of our new BetSlip feature on the SugarHouse app even won a trip to Minneapolis and tickets to the final weekend’s games! As spring unfolds, SugarHouse is gearing up for a truly monumental baseball season, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome Bryce Harper to the City of Brotherly Love. Think the Phillies might bring some hardware back to Philly this fall? Stop by and make a futures bet! We’re also
photo by Justus Henry Photography
ecstatic to offer legal wagering on the NBA playoffs for the first time in Philadelphia, including a wide range of prop bets on how specific players will perform in each game. Of course, the action doesn’t stop there – from hockey to golf to soccer and more, we’ve got something for everyone! If you haven’t been to the sportsbook before, come to SugarHouse and check us out – we’ve got energetic, smiling ticket writers who will be happy to help you at one of our six betting windows. There are also 18 self-service kiosks that are open 24 hours a day. Of course, no trip to the SugarHouse Sportsbook would be complete without sampling a Geno’s cheesesteak or Hugo’s sliders, which can be delivered right to your seat! Want to see live, up-to-the-minute odds and prepare your wagers in advance? Check out our BetSlip feature on the SugarHouse app or at www.sugarhousecasino.com. Hope to see you at the casino! PRH gohomephilly.com
John J. Dougherty Business Manager IBEW Local 98
photo by Thomas DiGilio
PRHON THE CORNER
ON THE CORNER with MARK CASASANTO
Feeling Good
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
M
ost Unpredictable. That’s what it said. In BIG, BOLD print. “It” was an eighth-grade homeroom student poll published in the St. Monica Elementary School Yearbook. The recipient of the dubious distinction bestowed by a classroom of #2 pencil pushing peers? That would be yours truly... of course. Honestly, my classmates hit the nail square on the head in their assessment of my pubescent personality. Forty years later, apparently, I haven’t changed a bit, although at this stage of my life, let’s just say... spontaneous. What can I say? I’m a Sagittarius. Identified as impatient, disliking constraints, enjoying freedom. That screams of spontaneity and unpredictability, right? Make no bones about it. I tend to go off script... a lot. Listen, I’ve been living life in the fast lane for most of my adulthood. There’s the hustle and bustle of exciting things to do, with interesting places to go and important people to see. But I’ve often felt like Clark Griswold in National Lampoon’s Vacation. That iconic scene when the family stops for a few seconds, grabs a picture at the Grand Canyon, then Clark hustles them up to hit the road again. Yeah, I can relate. Lately, at my girlfriend’s gentle behest, I’ve been gravitating towards the mildly paced right lane of life. In other words, I’m trying to strip it down a little bit. Taking the time to enjoy what’s special in life rather than rushing through in search of the next great selfie or social media post. “Take it all in, babe,” she says, “it’s not going anywhere...” On a recent lazy Sunday afternoon, with the only prospects for prime-time television viewing dominated by all things Academy Awards, I popped open a ticket app, hopped on two tickets to see Michael Bublé and spontaneously dropped a few dollars on premium seats. In search of an enjoyable evening of music, free of pablumpuking celebrities standing at a podium, to the Wells Fargo Center we went. Thank the good heavens above, the affable entertainer from the Great White North did not disappoint. I wish I could say the same for a few people sharing the section with us at the arena. Choosing to sit at a drink rail, we grabbed dinner and drinks and settled in as the lights dimmed. Unfortunately, we got to witness first-hand, a show within the show and the ultimate absurdity of the disjointed times in which we now live. Not to sound pretentious, our seats cost everyone in that club box a fairly decent amount of dinero. Bublé was well worth the cost of the desirable ducat, yet, the total disregard for his performance and fellow concertgoers was shameful. Just below us sat three of the most idiotic and self-absorbed people in the form of a very odd, mother-son combination and an unaffiliated woman seated next to them. Three people, who, for the good of society, need to hit the turn signal and move to the center lane. Or try the backroads. Momma and ‘boy wonder’ strangely selfied their way deep into the night while unsuccessfully trying to Shazam the music throughout the set. Meanwhile, the third in the threesome from hell babbled her way through Bublé, much to the clear chagrin of her husband. If any of them could collectively come close to naming three songs on the set list, I’d be shocked. Angered and annoyed, I rose to squelch their nonsense a few different times only to be reeled back by the belt loop courtesy of my better half. Bless her. She was right. We came to be entertained, not aggravated. Eventually, we lost ourselves in the music and an amazing performance. Almost as significant, I contemplated just how much of a life well-lived I may have missed by being “one of them.” Spring is here. I think I’ll take the time to stop and smell the flowers more often. It’s a new dawn, a new day... and I’m feeling good.
gohomephilly.com
PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE SPECIAL EVENT
SPBA
Person of the Year
St. Monica School
photos by ANDREW ANDREOZZI THE SOUTH PHILADELPHIA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
held its annual Person of the Year Gala at Galdo’s honoring the Rev. Nicholas F. Martorano, Hon. Rose Marie DeFino-Nastasi and Russell Shoemaker. Proceeds benefit the SPBA Scholarship Fund.
“THE PRIDE OF SOUTH PHILLY” Senior School:
2500 S. 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Junior School:
1720 W. Ritner Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Philly
Since 1908 Proud of Our Past Committed to Our Future Early Learning Center (Pre-K / ages 3-4) Kindergarten – Grade 8
After school Programs Register today To visit or register, call the Senior School Main Office at 215.467.5338 For information about St. Monica Early Learning Center (ages 3-4), call 215.334.6001 Pastor
Reverend Joseph Kelley Principal
Sister Mary Regina Matulka, IHM Early Learning Center Director
Sister Rosemary Peterson, IHM
April / May / June 2019
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 17
PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE
CARLTON WILLIAMS Streets Commissioner
His Calling to a Life on the Streets by Maria Merlino
S
PRH Life
treets Commissioner Carlton Williams has experienced many life-defining moments. “My life story has ups and downs. I’ve endured times of violence. I’ve been shot and stabbed but I made it through.” Williams says life as a city sanitation worker can be tough at times but nothing compared to the way things were back in the day. He points to the life and sacrifices of Dr. Martin Luther King, who marched for equal
rights and better working conditions for all. “Ironically, his last speech was in front of sanitation department workers. Our guys’ jobs are really rough but at that time, conditions were deplorable with life-threatening health issues.” He points out that King’s speech wasn’t about race but life equity. At the time of his speech, the sanitation department was on King’s list of quests. “Every person should be treated as a human being. Everyone has the right to freedom, good working conditions, good benefits and good wages,” Williams agrees. “To look back at my life as commissioner of this department, the speech was truly inspiring.” As a freshman at Germantown High School, Williams recalls an assignment to write his own speech on the topic: take pride in everything you do. “We had to stand up in front of an audience. I remember I was extremely nervous. It had to be memorized. I just got up there and spoke from the heart. It doesn’t matter what title or position you hold, you could be great because you can serve.” He says that speech was a defining moment for him. He knew he wanted to be in public service. And he uses that speech and Dr. King’s advocacy to inspire his workers. “Even if you’re
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picking up trash, you can take pride in what you do,” he says. “We do take pride in the cleanliness of the neighborhoods and the City itself.” After a temporary run as a Federal Tax Return Clerk, Williams was offered an opportunity to be one of the first Park Rangers. A grant, funded by the William Penn Foundation, gave students an opportunity to learn about the environment and to go to school on a scholarship. “My mother and father were the ones that brought the application home,” he says. “Being an inner city kid, I didn’t know anything about being a park ranger. My mom was very serious – tough love serious. I was 19. She said ‘You need to make something with your life and if you don’t, you’re going to have to make some strong decisions about making it on your own.’ That was another defining moment, Williams says. “I took the opportunity and started to learn. Something happened inside of me. While the college scholarship was the attractiveness, the job was actually the word! I got to learn about Philadelphia in ways I’ve never seen it before. I grew and realized how great this city is.” His career also was shaped by going into schools to present students with
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
programs about the environment, recycling, keeping the neighborhood clean, civic pride. He stressed the importance of living litter-free. “Being a young African-American male in the city of Philadelphia was tough. You have to overcome some of the obstacles not only within the community, but the violence around you. I held that job as the tremendous opportunity of my life. It showed me a different side of the world. Being out in the woods and in the park, learning about trees, all of those things turn on light bulbs. I’m very thankful.” In 1993, Williams, along with his group, went to Washington when President Clinton signed the National Community and Service Trust Act. He says he also was influenced by the late Senator Harris Wofford, who was a huge proponent of giving back. He used his scholarship to attend Temple University where he studied Sports and Recreation Management. Mayor John Street’s administration was looking for a young, talented individual to lead the Recreation Department at that time and Williams was the only name the Dean submitted for the job. After interviewing, Williams was offered the position of Deputy Commissioner. He was coming back home to serve the community where he would oversee the maintenance division, manage the Dell East and introduce spraygrounds to city neighborhoods. “The spraygrounds are a safe way for kids to cool off during hot weather. Everything is on timers and recyclable.” After introducing one of his ideas
to the Streets Department, Williams landed the job as Deputy Streets Commissioner. His idea? Coordinate trash pick-ups from city rec centers to save money and be more efficient. Those ideas earned him a nod from then Streets Commissioner Clarena Tolson who asked him to join her department as Deputy Streets Commissioner. Williams introduced Single Stream Recycling so items don’t have to be separated during the process. PhillySpring Clean Up is another one of his ideas. So are Big Belly trashcans, although they flopped due to technical and design glitches. In 2013, Mayor Michael Nutter promoted Williams to head the Department of Licenses and Inspections but the department’s long-term systemic problems were no match for Williams’ skills. That June, a freestanding wall near 22nd and Market Streets fell while it was under demolition, crashing into the corner thrift store, killing six and injuring 13. “To think that it happened on my watch is very difficult for me. I pass the corner all the time and stop to offer prayers.” Despite the horrific mishap, Mayor Jim Kenney confidently returned him to the Streets Department. “We are working on a pilot street program. We’ve placed cameras on known short dumping areas and would like to issue trashcans for homes. Trashcans are sometimes a risky call but it’s better to have it contained in one place than throwing trash on the corner.” Visit www.philadelphiastreets.com for more on trash and recycling. PRH gohomephilly.com
MUMMERS A Year-round Tradition Landi Comic Club has a New Family! Barrels Gives Birth to 1st Place Jacks! by Anthony Panvini
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hree years ago, fellow mummer Steve Melnychuk approached Chuck Tomasco with an opportunity to take over the popular Landi Comic Club. While it might seem like an obvious decision to some, Tomasco was hesitant at first. “It was probably the furthest thing from our mind because we
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never wanted to be involved with the politics of it. We never wanted to be year-round Mummers,” Tomasco says. “I told him I doubt it but I’ll speak to my membership and see what they say. We had a meeting shortly after that and we actually agreed to go ahead and do it.” Before purchasing Landi, Tomasco was involved in the leadership of the Barrels Brigade for 50 years. Being so, it was an easy decision to elect him as the Landi President. Also stemming from the Barrels Brigade was what would eventually make up the nucleus of the Jacks NYB – a group of tight-knit friends since grade school that hung around 16th and Jackson. “When they first told me in 2017 that they were going to form their own brigade, for me it was almost like my first grandchild. It was guys that had come out with us in the parade for the longest time and they were going to start their own brigade,” Tomasco says. Despite 2019 being only their third year marching in the parade, the Jacks were able to claim the top
spot and finish in first place after a performance under the theme “Mummers vs. Everybody,” influenced by the Philly sports teams’ motto “Philly vs. Everybody” the year prior. The focal point of the theme, explained Jacks President Matt Cella, was bringing the parade back to the South Philly neighborhood. Although they only perform officially on New Year’s Day, Cella says there’s a ton of unseen work that goes into the parade all year long. “It’s indescribable the work that these people put in to get everything done,” Cella says. “Our captain and co-captain were actually sewing suits on New Year’s Eve just to make sure everything was ready. It’s pretty much a year around thing that we do from getting a theme together to your costumes and your skit, and the music – there’s tons of things that are done behind the scenes.” Cella gave high praise to the Captain of the club, Steve Leuzzi, Jr. “Every founder and member dedicate a lot of time and put in tons of work to keep the club up and running but our captain Steve Leuzzi Jr. is the heart and soul of the club and we
would never be in the position we are in today if it wasn’t for him,” he says. The time and work put in by everyone isn’t limited to just the parade. The organization does a lot of community work and takes part in many different social events. “They also do other things. I know they do a golf outing and they also donated a lot of the money they raised to the Joe Briglia Scholarship Foundation,” Tomasco says. “They’re also big supporters of the PalandroFerry Foundation for the Mummers who recently passed away in the car accident on Packer Avenue.” The Jacks NYB looks forward to carrying their success into 2020 and win back-to-back championships. As far as their success goes, Tomasco said he is proud of the Jacks, who have only been around for three short years. “It all stems from us but they’ve taken it to a new level and they’re pretty big in a short period of time,” Tomasco says. “Landi never really had a big club so because they came in first place, we went to a trophy house and bought them a three-foot trophy. Watching them at the serenade enjoying this trophy was probably the best money I ever spent. It went a long way as far as the goodwill that we created with them and showing them some love back.” PRH
April / May / June 2019
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PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE
Real People Real Stories
A CITY IN MOURNING AFTER TRAGEDY HITS
MUMMERS COMMUNITY Memorial Funds Assist Families Affected by Deadly Car Collision
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by Maria Merlino hen tragedy strikes, it is a testament to the human spirit when family and friends reach out to survivors in a surge of support. Over time, the pain dulls and people return to their daily lives. But the Mummers community marches on as a sign of solidarity for the loved ones left behind. January 1st, 2019, was a winning day for South Philadelphia String Band Captain Denny Palandro. The String
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Band won 2nd place in the prestigious lineup of performances and Palandro was awarded the coveted 2nd place award for Captain. The clubhouse was filled with jubilant members who gathered to celebrate the victory with Denny, his son and member Dennis Jr, 31, and his daughter-in-law Nicole, 30. Dennis’ friend Joseph Ferry, 36, also a member, and his fiancée Kelly Wiseley, 35, were there to enjoy the win, as well. As the Mummers clubhouses emptied out, the four friends decided to end a long day with breakfast at a local diner. They piled into an SUV en route to their destination but never made it. Tragically, they were hit in a head-on collision just blocks from the diner. The horrific crash claimed the lives of Dennis Palandro Jr., Joseph Ferry and his fiance Kelly Wisely. Palandro’s wife Nicole miraculously survived the crash, sustaining serious injuries. The joyous sounds of New Year’s Day turned to a deafening silence as word of this tragedy made its way through the
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neighborhoods and across the region. Reeling with shock, friends quickly jumped into action to lend support. Angelo Lutz, a Mummer for more than 40 years (Hegeman String Band) and a close friend of the Palandro family, immediately set up The PalandroFerry Memorial Foundation to assist the families with funeral expenses. The response has been overwhelming. Donations to this foundation also will provide monetary scholarships and other assistance to Mummers and others in need in memory of their beloved friends. Donations can be made to the Palandro-Ferry Foundation, P.O. Box 8696, Collingswood NJ, 08018 or https://bit.ly/2JomNpi. www.facebook.com/pg/PalandroFerryMemorialFoundation Friends of the Wiseley family set up a GoFundMe campaign in memory of Kelly Wiseley. Every cent collected goes to Kelly’s family. Her parents Sue and Bill Wiseley, a retired Folcroft Borough Police Sergeant, along with
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her brothers Michael, Marc and Billy Jr. and their families are grateful for all of the generous donations and support they have received since this tragedy. Visit www.gofundme.com/supportfamily-of-kelly-wiseley Alana Miller set up the GoFundMe campaign for Joseph Ferry’s family. Following the tragedy, the family was hesitant to create a GoFundMe page, however, the outpouring of love for Joe has been extraordinary. In an effort to keep his memory alive, the page was created in response to the overwhelming support his family received. All donations go directly to his mother, Donna Ferry. www.gofundme.com/family-of-joe-ferry Organizer Ava Graham started a GoFundMe page on behalf of Nicole Palandro and family. She says it was one of the most painful things she’s ever done. Nicole’s parents, Barb and Nick Pellicciotti, want everyone to know that Nicole began occupational and physical therapy and is no longer in critical condition. She is overwhelmed by the generosity from all who have reached out to her and her family since this tragic accident. She has a long road of rehabilitation ahead and an even longer one dealing with the heartbreak of losing her husband Dennis. She is extremely thankful for all the support. www.gofundme.com/ for-nicole-palandros PRH gohomephilly.com
Row Home Remembers Philly
photo courtesy of Quaker City String Band
IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR FRIEND
WAY BEYOND GAME DAY
Bob Shannon Jr. QUAKER CITY STRING BAND
JANUARY 14, 1948 - MARCH 5, 2019
We’ll Meet Again We’ll meet again Don’t know where Don’t know when But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day Keep smiling through Just like you always do ‘Till the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away So will you please say hello To the folks that I know Tell them I won’t be long They’ll be happy to know That as you saw me go I was singing this song
A TOAST TO THE PAST WITH THE TASTE OF THE FUTURE
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We’ll meet again Don’t know where Don’t know when But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day Songwriters: Hughie Charles / Ross Parker
April / May / June 2019
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PRHLIFE
Sunflowers honor the memory of
ALEXSANDRA BILOTTI Hundreds join forces to raise money for CHOP
art by Ed Bronstein
Courtesy of Natalie Pantaleo Alexsandra Bilotti Foundation www.alexsandrabilotti.com
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She was a South Philly girl. She was a Main Line girl. She had both fragility and backbone. She seemed effortless yet persistent. lexsandra Bilotti lived with her mom, dad and brother in South Philadelphia during her 22 years on Earth. Wise beyond her age both academically and in outlook, Alex attended Episcopal Academy in Newtown Square, PA where she received a topnotch education. After high school, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, fulfilling a dream. Just across the street from U of Penn eight years ear-
lier, Alex had embarked on a somewhat different schooling. It was at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) that Alex was diagnosed and treated for a rare pediatric cancer called Ewing Sarcoma, and where she would ultimately spend hours, days and years throughout her student life learning the intricacies and consequences of this life stealer. A quick Google search will inform you that Ewing Sarcoma forms malignant tumors that grow in the bones or soft tissue, most often in the legs, pelvis, arms, spine or ribs, where Alex’s tumor was found. Those close to Alex would describe her as utterly ambitious, yet grace-
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fully modest. Sturdy, yet delicate. Purposely planted in both south and north. Perennial and annual. Like a sunflower . . . the characteristics and dichotomies of which would unwittingly epitomize Alex’s life. During some of the most trying days of Alex’s journey, her mom’s sisters frequently visited her bedside. Based on their own personal experiences, her aunts coached Alex in positive visualization. They suggested she find a meaningful symbol she could envision that would allow her to escape her suffering, if only momentarily. “We told Alex to try to find an object to center her focus,” her aunt,
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Linda Mazzotta, of the East Passyunk Square district of South Philadelphia, said. “One that represented faith and hope; to elevate her mood and distract Alex through the most mentally and physically challenging days of her cancer treatments.” Like everything Alex did, she approached this assignment with weightiness and diligence. “It was a few days later when she told us she’d come up with something. It was a sunflower,” Alex’s aunt, Lisa DiLauro, also of the East Passyunk Square neighborhood, shared. “She had done some research and embraced its symbolism: long life, strong bonds, positive and sun-facing.” Alex even named one of her Biewer Yorkies “Girasole” – Italian for sunflower – a nod to her heritage. “Just like the flower, Alex bravely faced the sun on the darkest of days,” DiLauro added. Alexsandra Bilotti left us on February 21, 2015. PRH
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Alexsandra Bilotti
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Photos by Andrew Andreozzi
With strong support from friends and family, the Bilottis established the Alexsandra Bilotti Foundation (ABF) in 2017 for the primary purpose of raising awareness and funds to research Ewing Sarcoma at CHOP, and to provide support for families of children with terminal cancers. Additionally, the Foundation supports an educational endowment fund at Episcopal Academy. On Thursday, April 4, 2019, ABF hosted their premiere annual fundraising event at the IATSE Ballroom. The night featured food, spirits, dancing and some unique items for bid including a sunflower art auction (inspired by Alex’s best friend and Episcopal classmate Kathryn Burke of Wayne., PA, who created the sunflower that’s since become the Foundation’s logo). Local artists and students from the Philadelphia Sketch Club and Wayne Arts Center volunteered their time and talent to create their interpretations of sunflowers in a variety of mediums – including a one-of-a-kind pair of sneakers as a canvas! Event attendees had the opportunity to silently bid on the local art as well as Eagles “Superbowl LII” labeled bottles of wine each signed by Nick Foles! For more information and to support the Alexsandra Bilotti Foundation, please visit www.alexsandrabilotti.com
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Row Home Remembers PRH Life
following in
My Father’s Footsteps
T
here’s a timehonored saying, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” This axiom rings true for many adults who - by choice, by chance or by necessity - have followed in their father’s footsteps regarding their career choice. I idolize my father and try to emulate him in many ways, especially by respecting my wife as he respects
by Tony Santini
my mother, the way I raised my kids and how I treat others. However, when it came to career choices, I don’t think he wanted me or my siblings to follow in his footsteps. Dad was a Machine Operator in the paper box industry before retiring after 40 years. He spent eight hours a day, five days a week, standing at a machine in factories with no airconditioning in the summer and little heat in the winter. His job and many hours of overtime provided
V.THOMAS MATTIA SR. AND V.THOMAS MATTIA JR. My father was the Chief Supervisor of Voting Machines for the City of Philadelphia for 35 of the 50 years he worked as a City employee. I work as a Voting Machine Group Leader/ Supervisor in the same warehouse where my father worked. I followed in my father’s footsteps after trying other things. From the time I started as a part-timer at the warehouse, I saw the respect my father commanded and his handling of every situation. For me, it was natural to want to do what he did as a career in the same way I try to do what he did in all aspects of my life. To this day, the best compliment I get is when people say I remind them of my father. I did get to work side-by side with him for a year before he passed. He was my boss, my father and my best friend. He gave me great advice: “Treat people like you want to be treated. Take responsibility for your actions. Always remember that loyalty will be rewarded.” The thing that he instilled in me and that I try to pass on to my children is “Family first!”
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for us. I don’t recall wanting for anything as a child. I believe his hard work and the encouragement he continually gave us to go to college, if we wanted, was his way of saying he preferred we not become a factory worker like him. Other families are different. Some children aspire to be just like their parents and it’s common to see children of doctors and lawyers become the same. Children of teachers, police officers, firefighters and first
STEPHEN VIVARINA SR., SAMANTHA VIVARINA AND STEPHEN VIVARINA JR. Dad was a Philadelphia police officer. He retired from the Department as a Homicide Detective and is currently working as a Lieutenant for the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office. Our grandfather was also a police officer and we had an uncle on the force. I guess we are a family of Blue Bloods. My brother Stephen and I are both Philadelphia police officers. I am in the 15th District and Stephen is in the 24th. Stephen wanted to be an architect and I went to college for marketing but both of us knew that our aspirations were to follow in our father’s footsteps. Although we never got a chance to work with Dad, he is a big part of our life now and a constant source for guidance and inspiration. His best advice: “Always be aware of your surroundings. Remember, people call you when they are in a time of need. Treat them how you would want your family and friends to be treated. Do your best and have fun at work because it’s the greatest job on earth.”
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responders grow up appreciating the heroes their parents are and make a career choice to pursue those same professions. There are others who grow up in and around a successful family business and end up being groomed, destined or extremely willing to be part of that business, which may someday be their own. This story is a tribute to six local RowHome neighbors who have followed in their father’s footsteps.
VINCENT LOMBARDI AND ANTHONY LOMBARDI I’ve been following in Dad’s footsteps for the past 35 years. Dad is a Meat Cutter. I started helping him in the business when I was in high school and got a first-hand, one-onone apprenticeship. Did I think that I was going to be doing the same thing for the rest of my life? No. I was an accountant for several years. I realized that I enjoyed the business and the constant interaction with customers who have been loyal to my Dad for years since his days at Al’s Meat Market and the new customers we have been fortunate to attract and maintain at Lombardi’s Prime Meats. So, I, too, am a Meat Cutter and proud to have the family name on the storefront. Dad’s words of advice: “Work hard and always give it everything you got!”
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DANIEL OLIVIERI SR. AND DANIEL OLIVIERI JR. As a young boy, I would spend my afternoons after school with Dad at Olivieri Jewelers. This was my secondary education and I loved it. Although sometimes trying, they were also special times and very gratifying. I knew back then that this was my future. I love the business and the ability it gives me to be creative and artistic. It was always my dream to continue Dad’s dream and today, I am serving 2nd and 3rd generation customers located all over the world. Dad’s best advice to me: “Take your time. Take pride in your work and always be honest with your customers. Your word is your bond.”
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ANTHONY J. DEFINO, VINCENT A. DEFINO, ROSE MARIE DEFINO AND MICHAEL A. DEFINO Dad (Anthony J. DeFino) was a very respected lawyer and Judge in the Criminal Division of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. Three of us followed in his footsteps. Michael and Vincent are lawyers at DeFino Law Associates. Rose Marie is a Judge in the Criminal Division of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. Michael and Rose Marie recognized their draw to the occupation at very young ages. Michael recalls that lots of young boys went fishing with their fathers, “I went to the court rooms!” Rose Marie remembers her fascination around the dinner table when Dad told stories about his cases. Vincent, on the other hand, majored in finance and wanted to be an Investment Banker. When he told his father that he wanted to go to the Wharton School, the senior DeFino asked, ‘Where? 10th & Wharton?’ The rest is history, he laughs. His Dad told him he already paid for the LSAT test for him and he was going to law school. Although Rose Marie and her Dad never worked side-by-side, she did work down the hall from him when they were both sitting judges in the Major Trial Division. After Dad retired as a Judge, he worked at DeFino Law Associates for two years with his sons Michael and Vincent – “the only time I was forced to wear a suit and tie to work every day,” Vincent laughs. Dad’s advice? “Use common sense. Never expect anything from anyone and you won’t be disappointed. Do what’s right by people and you will be able to put your head on your pillow and get a good night’s sleep.”
On May 21st, please re-elect Lisa Deeley City Commissioner
VINCENT GIUSINI AND BRITTANY M. GIUSINI My father is an attorney and, in my humble opinion, an extremely good one, says Brittany Giusini. His practice focused on personal injury, criminal defense and dependency cases. Recently, he was appointed as a Juvenile Court Hearing Officer for the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. I’m an attorney and part of the Securities Enforcement and Corporate Governance Litigation Group at Ballard Spahr in Wilmington. I always looked up to him. Through his occupation, he assisted those most vulnerable, especially children, who found themselves in the judicial system. I sensed his passion about his profession because he was assisting real people with real issues and I wanted to do the same. We both attended the Trial Admissions Program at Widener University School of Law. While our practices are different, we both help children. He as the Juvenile Hearing Officer and me through my pro bono practice. We worked side-by-side when I interned at his office and experienced firsthand how cases progressed through the judicial system. In my early college days, I considered becoming a political commentator and still maintain an interest in politics, another thing I have in common with him – as some may know – is his run for judge in Philadelphia. His best advice: “Take your lows high and your highs low. When you are down and out, keep going and see the best in every situation. On the other hand, when you feel like you reached the highest point in your career, remain humble.”
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Wine Know by VINCENT R. NOVELLO JR.
Old School PRH Life
Recently, all of our wine discussions reflect back to the days when our fathers and grandfathers made wine. The good ol’ days! Great times filled with memories… from the purchasing of the grape, the wine making, and most certainly, the savoring of the wine. Times of fun, traditions and camaraderie. Every family had their own rendition of the original “Dago Red.”
Dago Red – “Old School” wine – was made using the popular two parts Alicante to one part Muscato. Alicante was the hardiest of red grapes at the cheapest price. It was sometimes referred to as the peasant grape. The Muscato grape was plump and full of sugar. Both made for perfect yield and alcohol content. It was a marriage made in heaven.
Wine Recommendations ❚❙❘ RED WINES
❚❙❘ ROSE
LILIUM Merlot $10
JULIAS DAZZLE Pinot Gris Rose $12
CANTINE DI ORA AMICONE Rosso $11 GRAYSON CELLARS Zinfandel $12 KENDALL JACKSON Pinot Noir $15
COMMANDERIE Rose $16 ❚❙❘ WHITE WINES CHARDONNAY BOURGOGNE $15 MONTECAPPONE VERDICCHIO $15
ILLUSION Lodi $14 FAUSTINO V RESERVA Rioja $19 WHIPLASH Red Blend $13 PEIRANO ESTATE Red Lodi $14
ST. FRANCIS Chardonnay $11
…and remember “Never save your good wine for tomorrow!” For more information contact Vincent Novello Vinoinfo824@aol.com
KENDALL JACKSON Pino Gris $14 CHATEAU HAUT MAURIN Sauvignon Blanc $10 DOMAINE DU BOURGOGNE Blanc $10
Vincent Novello has been making his own wine since 1997 and has competed in and judged the annual Vendemmia. His 2008 Brunello took first and second place in the competition. Today, Novello serves as the Vendemmia’s contest director.
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
gohomephilly.com
PRHLIFE My selfie with the
PIANO MAN
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by Joei DeCarlo
y earliest memory of Billy Joel dates back to my living room. I grew up with my mom and grandparents and being a Billy Joel fan was not only non-negotiable, it was hereditary. I learned how to use our LaserDisc player at the age of four to watch my favorite Billy Joel music videos for hours on end in pure fascination. My first Billy Joel concert was in 2002 during
his “Face to Face” tour with Elton John. Since then, I’ve attended a total of 13 Billy Joel concerts with tickets for another show, this year. I owe my love of Billy Joel to my grandfather Rich, who I call Pop. He fell in love with Billy Joel in 1971 when his first album, Cold Spring Harbor was released. I always wished I was a little older so I could see Billy Joel as many times as he has. He heard Joel’s first live radio performance on WMMR in 1972 and has seen him every time he’s performed in Philadelphia since.
Our house is full of Billy Joel CDs, vinyls, LaserDiscs and photos my grandmother took at his shows. Two things come to mind when I think about my love for Billy Joel. The first is his ability to write songs that are all different. No two songs are alike and each tells a story. I find myself thinking about Brenda and Eddie from “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” or Paul who is a “real estate novelist who never had time for a wife” from “Piano Man.” Billy’s repertoire is full of classic hits and rarities, five Grammy awards, a 1999
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors Award in 2013. The second quality I think of when people ask, “Why him?” is Joel’s stage presence. I attend his shows again and again here in Philly and at Madison Square Garden because he has the ability to make you feel like you are the only person in the room. I’ve had the opportunity to see Billy Joel in a room of 300 people and at venue of more than 20,000. I’ve left each feeling the same way: on cloud 9. In 2015, Pop and I attended a New Yorker Festival event where New Yorker writer Nick Paumgarten interviewed Billy Joel at SIR Stage37 in New York. We had no idea what to expect but when we sat in our seats a mere three rows from the stage set with two wooden stools and a piano, we knew we were in for a treat. It was on that day that Pop got to ask Billy Joel a question and I got to meet him. I’ll never forget rushing to the stage at the end of the two-hour interview. Shaking, crying and screaming inside, I asked him to sign my ticket and take a selfie with me. The stage was high and my 4’10” stature was no help. He said sure and I
January/ February/ March 2019
left New York in a daze. Whenever I think back to that day, or any of the other 12 performances I’ve attended, I always remember the great time I had listening to him sing, talk and perform. I see the love he has for music in his every move and hear it in every note. Although he hasn’t released an album since 1993, Billy Joel is as popular as ever. This May marks his 6th consecutive year of sellouts at Citizens Bank Park, making him the first-ever artist to have a residency in Philadelphia and the longest-standing musical residency at Madison Square Garden. Each month, fans gather at the Garden to watch Billy Joel perform the hits they love and the rare songs they’ve been dying to hear him perform live. He’s had a Madison Square Garden residency since 2014, selling out 50 consecutive shows (1 per month) and 100 shows at the Garden over the course of his musical career. Here in Philadelphia, fans can expect to hear the favorites they cherish including “Captain Jack” and of course, “Piano Man.” As I think about his upcoming show this May, I can’t help but think of how great a time it is to be a Billy Joel fan. His performances are always top notch and I can see him as often as my bank account will allow. PRH
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Looking for a local doctor?
Start here  PRH Life
YOUR HEALTH IS THEIR PRIMARY FOCUS photo by Andrew Andreozzi
Following up with Dr. Mark Testa
L
ast year, we featured Dr. Mark Testa who practices family medicine in South Philadelphia. With more than 20 years in the field and our community, we dropped in on him again to find out more about his background and what’s new at his office.
Q: You have been in private practice for more than 20 years. What advancements have impressed you over the years? A: Advances in cardiovascular medicine, specifically the advances in imaging and access to imaging along with disease prevention, detection and treatment. Prevention and detection through the quality of imaging available and treatment through the quality of different procedures and medications that have been made available to us. Q: Is there anything you
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do differently now compared to when you first began? A: CV disease prevention program. Increase disease prevention with a focus towards imaging that has brought incredible advances in detecting disease and increasing our ability to treat the disease earlier than ever before. Q: Where was your first practice located? And your most recent? A: I have practiced medicine in South Philadelphia since I finished my residency. I feel that I have become part of the South Philadelphia
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community throughout my longstanding practice here. Q: You grew up in New York and your parents inspired you to become a doctor. Tell me a little about them. A: While my parents were not doctors themselves, they always encouraged me to be a physician. They wanted me to help people and the best way to do that in their mind was to become a physician and take care of people. Q: Tell me a bit about your education and your experiences in the medical world while in college. A: My fondest memories of the medical world during my education have been volunteering at the hospitals. I was able to help people and learn on the job in a way that no other experience really can.
Q: Family care physicians focus on generations of patients. What new changes can patients see in your practice over the last several months? A: Increased access to physicians and overall care. We take pride in our ability to see our patients timely and take the best possible care of them. We do this through increased focus on cardiovascular disease prevention through imaging and treatment programs. This is our focus and I believe it is an essential part of our practice that distinguishes us from many family practices in this area. Contact Information Mark Testa, DO 2601 S. 12th Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.389.6461
gohomephilly.com
April / May / June 2019
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PRHHEALTH
Real People Real Stories
A flawless Recovery from a
fOOSH
Paul Stolfo, Director • Marianne Stolfo, Director
The Tradition Continues the Fourth Generation
The Stolfo
Funeral Home Where Everyone is Treated Like Family
A
ndrew Hoffman slipped and fell on a puddle this past December, breaking a bone in his left wrist. At the time, though, he believed it to be just a sprain. After enduring a couple days of soreness and increased swelling, he decided to call the Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center at Jefferson Health and see a specialist. After being examined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Richard J. Tosti, it was determined that Hoffman had fractured the distal radius, the larger of the two bones of the forearm. “The tech had done an X-ray of my wrist and she said, ‘I just want to let you know that you have to be careful in the waiting room because it’s not sprained, it’s broken.’” He was also informed that the type of fall he had is actually called a FOOSH— Fall on Outstretched Hand. Dr. Tosti recommended surgery to correct the fracture. “I have to admit the only procedure I’ve had done was having my wisdom teeth out by my dad,” says Hoffman with a laugh, adding that his father is an oral surgeon. “So I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about the whole idea.” Surgery was scheduled with Dr. Tosti for mid-December at Jefferson Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia, where Jefferson’s orthopedic and hand surgeons regularly perform a high volume of upper extremity orthopedic procedures. Hoffman arrived in
H E A LT H
2536 So. Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
by Patrick Monaghan the morning and his worries were immediately put to rest. Check-in was a breeze – and pleasant, with some friendly chit-chat. A security guard then escorted Hoffman directly to the Same Day Surgery unit, where a receptionist rode with him on the elevator to pre-surgery. It was here that Hoffman’s nervous energy kicked in. But the receptionist calmed his nerves by checking to see if pre-surgery was ready, which they were. He met with a number of nurses, one who administered his I-V, the anesthesiologist and several nurse anesthetists. Anesthesiology was in the form of a neural blockade, which eventually rendered his left arm completely numb. “Let’s see how that arm is doing,” he recalls a nurse asking. “You’re going to have to find it for me,” Hoffman quipped. The next thing he recalled was waking up in recovery, Dr. Tosti having placed a plate and six screws to hold the repaired bone in place. That was Wednesday. By Friday afternoon, Hoffman was back at work. He’s been taking “minimal amounts” of ibuprofen to address what little pain he’s had since the surgery. “I got there at 6 a.m. and I was out by 1:30 p.m.,” says Hoffman. “Everybody at Jefferson Methodist Hospital was super-efficient and really nice. The aftercare instructions were really clear.” Hoffman can barely notice a difference today between his two hands in terms of the range of motion in his wrists, and is entirely more aware of puddles on the sidewalks of Philadelphia. PRH gohomephilly.com
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1517 Packer Ave, Philadelphia (Across from Chickie’s & Pete’s) 215.462.2424
We’ve got you covered. 1-800-JEFF-NOW JeffersonHealth.org/SouthPhilly
HOME OF SIDNEY KIMMEL MEDICAL COLLEGE
Why Having a Primary Care Physician and OB/GYN Close to Home Makes All the Difference Whether you’ve lived in South Philadelphia your whole life or just moved down the street, you’re an integral part of this community — and so is Jefferson Health. This one-of-akind neighborhood deserves one-of-a-kind, high-quality health care that is accessible and personalized.
Our PCPs can help you identify and treat a variety of issues. And if you need to see a specialist, they can refer you and serve as a medical advocate. We offer a full spectrum of specialties in South Philadelphia, providing you a seamless and individualized experience throughout your care.
Your primary care physician (PCP) is the first person you turn to for your healthcare needs, creating the foundation for good health. Jefferson Health understands that this requires reliable and expert care close to home, which is why we offer primary care and OB/GYN services right in your backyard at both Jefferson Methodist Hospital and our location at the Navy Yard.
For some women, their PCP may serve as their GYN or OB/GYN who can conduct annual health assessments. Our South Philadelphia locations are staffed with OB/GYNs who can not only monitor your overall health, but also address fertility concerns, birth control, and cancer prevention, among other health issues women face. Several female physicians are available for patients who are most comfortable speaking with a woman.
Forming a lasting, trusting relationship with your PCP is vital. That physician-patient partnership is an opportunity for the doctor to understand and address your concerns and monitor your overall well-being.
Establishing these long-term relationships with a healthcare provider is key to a healthier you. The expertise and personalized care they provide — with an understanding of what makes you... well, you — can make all the difference.
LOCATIONS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PRIMARY CARE • 2422 SOUTH BROAD STREET • 3 CRESCENT DRIVE* JEFFERSON HEALTH – NAVY YARD • 2534 SOUTH 18TH STREET
OB/GYN • 1302 WOLF STREET JEFFERSON METHODIST HOSPITAL • 3 CRESCENT DRIVE* JEFFERSON HEALTH – NAVY YARD
* Offices at 2301 S. Broad Street have moved to our Navy Yard location
Jefferson Health has made it even easier for you to see a physician, when and where you want, with online appointment scheduling and our video visit service, JeffConnect, which is available 24/7/365.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WHEN AND WHERE IT’S CONVENIENT FOR YOU.
1-800-JEFF-NOW | JeffersonHealth.org/SouthPhilly
PRHHEALTH
PERIOD.
END OF SENTENCE. 2019 Academy® Award Winner Documentary Short Subject
In the Philadelphia Navy Yard! Francis S. Matarazzo, DDS Anita M. Milici, DMD
Drs. Matarazzo & Milici have been creating healthy, beautiful smiles for patients from the Main Line to the Jersey Shore. Both doctors have dual-specialty training from the University of Pennsylvania’s elite Periodontal Prosthesis Program. Their team is dedicated to ensuring a warm and personal experience. •Cosmetic Dentistry: Veneers. Zoom! and KÖR Whitening. Porcelain Restoration. •Periodontics: Laser Therapy (LANAP). Gum Sculpting & Grafting. •Implantology. Surgical Placement & Restorative. 3-D Radiology. •Invisalign Orthodontics •Sedation/Sleep Dentistry
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Director: Rayka Zehtabchi Producers: Rayka Zehtabchi, Melissa Berton, Lisa Taback, Garrett Schiff photo courtesy of Netflix
“A period should end a sentence, not a girl’s education.” University of Pennsylvania sophomore Claire Sliney took home an Oscar this past February at the Academy Awards for her work as an executive producer on the documentary Period. End of Sentence. Six years ago as a freshman in a Los Angeles high school, Sliney was a member of the Feminist Majority Foundation’s high school program, Girls Learn International (GLI). Students from this group had attended the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and learned that women in some developing countries - India, Afghanistan and Sierra Leone - don’t have access to sanitary pads. Sometimes, they turn to alternatives like dirty rags or leaves. Not only is there a high risk of infection because of these alternatives, the women also have to miss school. The more they miss, the more likely they fall behind and are forced to drop out. Sliney and other members of GLI decided to take action. They worked with the FMF to research a machine manufactured in India that could produce sanitary pads for an entire rural village there. In order to purchase this machine for a village, Sliney and her friends founded The Pad Project (www. thepadproject.org) to raise the
funds and a year’s worth of supplies to install it in Kathikera, a rural village outside of New Delhi. Period. End of Sentence, which is available to view on Netflix, follows a group of women in Hapur, India, as they learn how to operate one of the pad machines. As a result, these women also have the opportunity to create a business of their own – selling pads to other women at affordable prices. The machine and the Pad Project not only help to improve feminine hygiene by providing access to the product, but also empower women to shed the taboos about menstruation and allows them to contribute to the economic future of their community. Arunachalam Muruganantham (know as the “Pad Man”) is the inventor of the pad-making machine. He was named one of Time’s 100 most influential people around the world in 2014. His machines manufacture pads for less than a third of the cost of commercial pads. They have been installed in 23 of the 29 states of India. Sliney continues to help manage her nonprofit today. Thanks to her efforts, women in developing countries can feel comfortable with their bodies, avoid period-shaming and continue their education. PRH
gohomephilly.com
THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME? I’m George Beatty. Last year, my company Problem Property Pals helped 117 families get rid of their problem properties, by buying their house AS-IS and making the whole process FAST, EASY, and FAIR!
How the process works: Step 1 Call Us Or Submit Your Information On Our Website We’ll discuss the condition and features of your home, answer any questions, and schedule a home visit. Home visits are free, and no obligation.
Step 2 Meet With Us At Your Home Our Home Buying Specialist will meet you at your house to do a walkthrough, check on any needed repairs, and give you a fair offer. Don’t worry, you won’t have to complete the repairs yourself. We’ll handle all of that for you. Once the walkthrough is complete, the Home Buying Specialist will explain and sign a sales agreement with you.
Step 3 Choose Your Closing Date And Sell Your Home It’s really that easy. We’ll work on your timeline and take care of all the details for you. All you have to do is show up, sign the paperwork, and you’ll receive your cash within hours. We handle all the paperwork, and can even handle any cleanout (take what you want from the house and leave the rest!)
Selling your home can be extremely stressful ALREADY! We make it easy. When you sell DIRECTLY to us, there are NO real estate commissions, no mortgages, and NO intrusive inspections. You get to keep ALL the funds from your sale! We settle FAST, and handle ALL the paperwork, so you don’t have to worry about anything coming up at the last minute to delay closingyou get your money FAST! All it takes is just a brief phone call and a brief visit to the house with one of our Partners. Most of the time, we can work out a fair price right there on the spot, and leave you with an offer to buy your home as-is, in writing. No matter what situation you’re in, if you want to sell your house WITHOUT making costly repairs and having to “deal with” realtors, and other hassles, call us RIGHT NOW to get started. Here’s our phone number (267) 296-9915 WWW.PROBLEMPROPERTYPALS.COM 107 S. 2nd St. 2nd Floor Philadelphia, PA 19106
PRHHEALTH
S
Energy& Optimism HEALTHY TIPS FOR YOUR SPRING CHECKLIST
pring has sprung. Days are longer. The sun is warmer. Trees are budding. Flowers are blooming. Spring makes us feel like things are new again. But how are you feeling about YOU? Are you approaching spring with energy and optimism? Are you feeling ready to embrace the new season looking and feeling better than ever? When you look in the mirror, are you happy with the person looking back?
Do your jeans refuse to button?
Obesity is a national epidemic. Obesity can be calculated by a scale that compares height to weight, called BMI (body mass index). A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. Carrying fat in the abdominal region is more of a health risk than fat anywhere else on the body. A woman’s waistline of 35 or more inches and a man’s of 40 can put one’s health in jeopardy. Obesity can put you at risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and stroke.
Shed that winter weight
A spring makeover can start with a resolve to shed that winter weight. Make a plan and stick to it. Fad diets are usually unsuccessful. We don’t WANT to give up our favorite foods but portion control is key. Learn to eyeball portion sizes by measuring food. Choose low calorie dressings and condiments. A little exercise will go a long way to achieve your weight loss goal. Choose an exercise that you enjoy and stick with it. Consistency is key! Engage a friend or relative to share the misery. Make weight loss a challenge – everyone loves to be a winner. Set goals and rewards and watch the pounds melt
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away. If dieting on your own does not work for you, consider a medically supervised diet program. Having to face the scale and a “white coat” can be a strong incentive for those who struggle with diets. A medically supervised plan can be tailored to individual needs and equal success when other diets fail. Just ask Joe. He tried Adkins, Keto and Weight Watchers before he realized that he needed medical assistance. Ten months into a medically supervised diet program, he is down 60 pounds! He looks and feels like a different person.
The dread of Menopause & Andropause
The age that was never mentioned in health class! Declining estrogen and testosterone (yes, women need testosterone) can cause a multitude of symptoms. Hot flashes leave you beet red and dripping in perspiration. Vaginal dryness makes sex uncomfortable or impossible. Exhaustion. A “muffin top” that will not budge. And the embarrassment of a “leak” when you laugh or cough. Oh, and guys, this is not only about women. Men experience andropause. This loss of testosterone causes decreased libido, difficulty obtaining (or maintaining) an erection, weight gain,
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
muscle loss and low energy levels.
BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
A hormonal makeover is a great way to feel more vibrant. BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is a natural way to replace what nature has depleted. BHRT are natural plant-based hormones that are implanted under the skin. There is no “one dose fits all.” Every dose is calculated on an individual’s lab work. The pellets dissolve – releasing a slow, steady amount of hormones 24 hours a day. The benefits last 3-6 months. The results can be life changing. Kate and Mike were miserable. They both felt fat, sluggish and “old.” Their sex life had dwindled to almost non-existent. This was supposed to be the best time of their lives. Kate read about BHRT during her GYN visit and decided this was the answer she had been looking for. Three weeks into her first treatment with pellets, she felt like a different person. Her energy was back and so was her libido. She convinced Mike to try BHRT. They now are approaching life (and sex) with a renewed enthusiasm they thought was lost forever.
Vaginal Laser Therapy
Spring is the season of romance.
by DR. RICHARD DITTRICH
So how IS your love life? Have vaginal problems caused you to lose interest in sex? Are things just not right “down there?” Vaginal laser therapy could be the answer to your problems. Laser therapy causes vaginal tissue to rejuvenate itself. The vagina becomes thicker and softer. The natural pH of the vagina is restored, lubricating tissue. Sex is enjoyable again! Bladder leaking is reduced or eliminated. Just ask Sue. She suffered from extreme vaginal dryness and itching. Intercourse was impossible. Hormone therapy was contraindicated because of health issues. She was too young to give up on a sex life. After the first treatment, her vaginal pain disappeared and she noticed some lubrication. After the second treatment, she felt ready to have sex again. Vaginal laser therapy was the answer she had been looking for.
New beginnings. New You.
The Professional Aesthetics & Wellness Center is open five days a week. We invite you to stop in and talk with us about diets, BHRT, vaginal laser therapy or any of the many services we offer. Let us help you make this spring a new beginning. PRH Serving patients for more than 30 years, Dr. Richard Dittrich has offices conveniently located in South Philadelphia at 1313 Wolf Street – 215.465.3000 – and in Voorhees NJ – 856.435.9090. New patients are welcome! gohomephilly.com
Has It Gone From This…
To This?...
Real People Real Stories
ROAD TO
REDEMPTION by Debbie Russino On Thanksgiving Eve 2003, I attended an event held at the Naval Base. As I walked around the room, I couldn’t help but notice a very charismatic guy spinning around on the dance floor. He was my friend Gene’s brother – Ettore (Eddie) Foschini. Eddie may not have been a big man in stature but the love and generosity he had in his heart could fill an ocean. Sadly, Eddie lost his battle with addiction on March 11th, 2018. His passing was a sad day for everyone who knew and loved him. Eddie was struggling in school so at a very young age he chose a different path. He joined his brothers in the family-owned Foschini Masonry – a business that still flourishes today. “Eddie was a very hard worker who became a skilled mason and would later go out on his own to do beautiful restoration work,” his brother Gene says. “He had hands of gold.” He was far from perfect – as we all are – but he hoped to be remembered for the positive things he accomplished in his life. Like Eddie, every one of us is battling something. Physical or emotional, our personal struggles may continue through life but our will to overcome serves as a legacy to those we leave behind. Drug addiction does not discriminate. It is an epidemic that affects the best of families and every walk of life. It takes a person through the fires of hell and drags their loved ones down with them. The Foschini family suffered many hardships in recent years,
beginning with the sad and sudden death of Eddie’s brother Jerry. Jerry Foschini was a very funny, lovable guy who was the life of every party. Following the loss of his beloved brother, there was nothing more heartbreaking for Eddie than the untimely death of his own son Antonio, who was only 18 years old when he was killed in a horrific car accident. Losing his son was a loss from which he would never recover. Eddie Foschini – the friend I knew for so many years – was gone forever. Unfortunately, Eddie found a way to escape his demons. But his loss led him further into a black hole of depression and the vicious cycle of addiction that would ultimately consume his troubled life. His addiction to drugs did not define him. His courage and compassion did. That is how he will be remembered by the countless people he helped in their time of need. That is the legacy that defines him. In the end, we all want to be forgiven for the wreckage of our past and foolish mistakes that we are powerless to change. It is our optimistic wish that only the greatest memories will remain. You are finally free, my friend, and you can rest easy with your Mom, Dad, Jerry and Antonio. The memories of the departed will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them. May you all rest in eternal peace. Thank you to Gene and Angela Foschini for graciously allowing me to write this personal story in honor of their brother – my friend – Eddie Foschini. PRH
Are you suffering from Memory Loss Weight Gain Sleep Problems Decreased Sex Drive Inability to Concentrate Depressed Mood Have you considered
BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy? Natural Therapies for Men and Women Dr. Richard Dittrich, Medical Director 1315 Wolf Street, Philadelphia PA, 19148
215.465.9600
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Sonny “The Bronco” Conto
PRHHEALTH
2 - 0 (2KO)
South Philly Born & Raised Next Fight - June 15th, 2019 MGM GRAND // LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
De Fino Law Associates, P.C. Don’t Settle for Less
Real People Real Stories
Internal Punches
MyStory PCOS
a
by LAUREN LAMANTIA
Michael Anthony De Fino
Vincent Anthony De Fino
Nicholas J. Starinieri
Nicholas L. Palazzo
Attorney at Law Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Benjamin J. Simmons
Attorney at Law
Attorney at Law
Areas of Practice •Personal Injury •Wrongful Death •Wills and Estates •Real Estate •DUI •Criminal Defense •Corporate •Traffic Violations
2541 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 TEL: 215-551-9099 | FAX: 215-551-4099
w w w. d e f i n o l aw y e r s . c o m 38
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
t age 17, I couldn’t wait for my senior year in high school: weekends beginning with Friday night football games and hanging out with friends counting down the days until
graduation. On the outside, I looked like a typical teenage girl going through the motions of high school and family life. On the inside, away from my teenage lifestyle, I was coping with something more severe.
Something that would change my life forever. For more than six months, my body was in a constant battle within itself resulting in odd, intense symptoms like irregular periods, excess facial and body gohomephilly.com
Dr. Adam Ellis family medicine
hair, and unexplained weight gain. My mother and I scheduled an appointment with my gynecologist to discuss what was going on. After numerous blood tests and circling questions, my doctor finally had some answers. I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis - an autoimmune disease that may be the result of having PCOS - is three times more common in women with PCOS than women without it. This disease can cause an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism and occurs when an individual’s immune system attacks its own thyroid. The thyroid, which is a part of the endocrine system, coordinates bodily hormonal functions making an immediate connection to PCOS. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, is the most common endocrine disorder among women. It is characterized by an elevated level of androgen and the absence or lack of frequent ovulation. In addition, the ovaries may even develop collections of tiny fluid sacs (follicles) complicating the release of eggs. The follicles that surround the eggs cause the ovary to enlarge and fail to function properly. I craved answers. I wanted to know what this meant for my body and how to take care of the two silent disorders. Although the initial cause of PCOS is unknown, it can be linked to heredity and usually arises during a woman’s reproductive age. Symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, weight gain, infertility, excess facial and body hair, insulin resistance
and anxiety and depression. Even though there is no cure for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, treatment such as birth control pills can help women regulate their periods and balance hormonal levels. Along with birth control pills, treatment for women who experience infertility caused by PCOS may include fertility medications, surgery and in vitro fertilization. Since being diagnosed with PCOS in my teenage years, I continue to make it a priority to nurture and care for my body as an adult. After my initial diagnosis, my gynecologist suggested birth controls pills to help balance my hormonal levels. In my specific case, my testosterone levels were extremely high, resulting in my body producing a lack of estrogen. In addition, I was also borderline pre-diabetic and overweight. My gynecologist suggested I meet with an endocrinologist for a more indepth look at my hormonal imbalance and the best way to treat my condition. My medical team also recommended a change in diet and an exercise program to help me feel more comfortable. In recent years, converting to a healthier diet along with exercise has helped my Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and my PCOS. There are many dietary programs available to individuals dealing with PCOS or other health complications. I chose to convert to veganism. As a result of seeking medical help and converting to a diet that was healthier for me, I continue to feel more at peace with my body, every day. You can try two of Lauren’s favorite vegan recipes in the menu section of this issue.. PRH
Why did you become a family doctor? I have many physicians in my family so you could say it was already in my blood as a child. When I was in elementary school, I couldn’t think of anything more valuable or interesting to me than a career in medicine. I liked getting to the root of a problem so I trained in both psychiatry and general surgery as a resident. I was given extra training in family medicine since I wanted to go into practice for myself.
What is your personal care standard for your patients? Care with me is always personal with only me as the doctor. There are no other people between me and the patient. No students or physician assistants are in my office, so my patients get true continuity of care. This has been my standard for over 20 years. I offer house calls, visiting my patients right in the comfort and privacy of their own home. This is something only a private practitioner can offer their patients. I am happy to do it since I really enjoy getting to know the patients and their families. South Philly is very family-oriented; it’s just a special place and has wonderful families I have had the chance to care for.
Any special areas of expertise? I have a special interest in treating knee and shoulder pain. By using joint injections, I have helped patients decrease their joint pain and maintain their usual lifestyle until surgery is required.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia and attended both the University of Pennsylvania and LaSalle University before going on to medical school.
Hobbies? During undergraduate summers, I sold art, as it was one of my interests as well as playing golf. Like most Philadelphians, I also enjoyed Ventnor growing up.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future? My hope is to spend the rest of my career practicing in South Philly as my patients have really added color and richness to my life. It’s been 20 years and continues to be a rewarding ride. I have admitting privileges and am on staff at both Jefferson and Methodist Hospitals. And I continue to make house calls. My staff and I welcome new patients to our office. Please give us a call if you would like to schedule an appointment: 215.334.2550.
For an appointment, call:
Adam Ellis, D.O.
Board certified family medicine.
1641 Jackson Street, (corner of 17th & Jackson)
P: 215.334.2550 |Open Monday through Saturday April / May / June 2019
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PRHHEALTH
Vincera Rehab
Victory Defines Us! Home to a fleet of world-class sports & rehab technologies trusted by athletes of all levels
E
by John Nacchio
xciting things are happening in the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Hanging just below the rafters in a large brick building, an impressive pair of plaster Greek Drama Masks make way for the future. These relics of the old Navy Yard Theatre now watch over a different type of performance. The Vincera Institute was established in 2013 by Dr. William Meyers. Its location in the Navy Yard is special. The buildings’ architectural re-design reflect its rich military history and incorpo-
H E A LT H
rates the original features of the Navy’s center for exercise, entertainment, shopping and more. The Institute was initially dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, research and education of core injuries. Over the past 5+ years, it has grown to include specialists in all areas of orthopedic, neurologic, general medicine and surgery. The campus also boasts a state-of-the-art physical therapy center - Vincera Rehab. Leading the team of rehab specialists at Vincera Rehab are physical therapist Robyn (Walther) McCrossin and her husband Jim McCrossin, widely known and beloved as the Philadelphia Flyers’ Head Athletic Trainer for more than 20 years. Robyn, a 1986 graduate of Thomas Jefferson University, began her career in physical therapy at 21st & Oregon Avenue as an intern and eventual employee of Physical Therapy Associates. Connecting with the character of South Philly and its residents, she hasn’t strayed very far since. “To this day, I will bump
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into former patients who embrace me like long lost family! It is difficult to describe.” A central New Jersey native, she chuckles while reflecting on what South Philly has taught her, including the meatball and gravy recipe she still uses today. Jim McCrossin began his career in Athletic Training and Sports Conditioning with Pat Croce and Sports Physical Therapists. Jim was one of the Athletic Trainers assigned to work with the Philadelphia Flyers back in the 1980s. “Hockey has always been a passion of mine.” He recalls listening to Gene Hart on a transistor radio during the Flyers late night games on the West Coast. “Getting to rehabilitate and train the Philadelphia Flyers through Sports PT was a dream come true.” It was those early connections and recognition of his talent and commitment to excellence that brought Jim back to the Philadelphia Flyers as a long-term employee. Accomplished clinicians in their own right, the pair is quick to praise the talent and passion of all the members of
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
the Vincera Rehab team for the positive reputation and successful outcomes they enjoy. The administrative staff of Krista Fumo, Adriana Spatola and Tori Hopkins, physical therapy team of Andrea Barberio, Bin Woo, Cara Marzano, Dean Millard, Sarah Guarino and Nicole Cannon, massage therapist Linda Mazzotta and their indispensable aide and beloved “2 Streeter” Frankie Brown, is a group of individuals committed to the common goal of making the Vincera Rehab experience a rewarding one where patients and clients emerge victorious. Vincera Rehab embraces patients ranging from professional athletes, Olympians and rock stars to professional tradesmen, homemakers and residents of Philadelphia. Despite their differences, every patient is treated with the same level of expertise and passion. In addition to outstanding rehabilitation, Vincera Rehab is setting the bar in performance technology. Within the confines of 1200 Constitution Avenue, patients have access to a professional golf simulator, zero gravity treadmill, recovery apparel and wearable movement technology used for performance evaluation and rehab planning. These services are available to the individual or to teams from youth through professional. Visit their website at vincerarehab.com or drop by and say hello. You can even grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat in the sunlit lobby cafe! PRH gohomephilly.com
VISIT US IN THE NAVY YARD! Vincera Rehab is dedicated to providing personalized, quality Physical Therapy to patients that range from International Olympians to our friends and family in Philly. It is our mission to return you back to the best version of yourself following your injury. In addition to our Physical Therapy services, we also offer: FUNCTIONAL & PERFORMANCE TESTING WEARABLE SENSOR TECHNOLOGY with
PERFORMANCE ANALYTICS GOLF SWING ANALYSIS & TRAINING CUSTOM PERFORMANCE TRAINING SUMMER SPORT & EXERCISE PROGRAMS SPORT SPECIFIC REHAB & TRAINING 1200 Constitution Ave | Philadelphia, PA (267) 592-3190 www.vincerarehab.com
Real People Real Stories
MICHAEL LICIARDELLO
A heart filled with gratitude
M
ichael Liciardello is a husband, father and brother. He’s happily married to his wife of 30 years, an Office Manager at Holy Family Regional School in Aston. They have two sons. Michael’s older son is an actuary. His younger son is a pharmaceutical sales rep and the head baseball coach at Archbishop Carroll. Michael also officiates high school basketball and enjoys sports, cycling and sculling.
As a “gym rat,” it’s hard to believe someone so fit and active would suffer two strokes and essentially have to learn to walk and talk, again. But that’s exactly what happened. When he was 37 years old, doctors discovered that Michael was born with an irregular aortic valve that was diagnosed as a bucuspid. In 1997, he underwent a valve replacement, which doctors said had a 10-year lifespan. Eight years later, he experienced shortness of breath and chest pains. Michael knew something was wrong but said the doctors refused to listen. A Managing Director on Wall Street and a registered option principal and supervisor in equity products, Michael was working in New York City when he experienced an intolerable pain. Somehow, he made it back to Philadelphia and headed straight to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. There, doctors discovered an infection that caused the heart valve to calcify. He needed emergency surgery, during which he had two
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strokes. The fight for his life began. Michael spent five weeks in a coma. He then endured a month-long stay at Bryn Mawr Rehab, learning how to walk and talk, again. Unfortunately, Michael still had a long road to recovery ahead of him. Three and a half years later, he once again felt the same swelling and shortness of breath. A CAT scan revealed a softball-sized pseudoaneurysm and Michael received a mechanical valve. He now takes daily doses of Coumadin to treat and prevent blood clots. After years of surgeries and rehabilitation, Michael says he finally feels like himself again. Working out and regaining a healthy lifestyle at the Springfield Healthplex has also helped him lose more than 100 pounds. In addition to the medical professionals who saved his life, Michael credits the love and support of his family and friends for his new lease on life. Michael Liciardello says he has a lot of doctors to thank for his medical
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
miracle. He begins with Dr. Clark Hargrove at Penn, who performed his first surgery. His second surgery was performed by Dr. James Diehl, whom he credits with saving his life. A third surgery was performed by Dr. Wilson Szeto at Penn, who Liciardello says changed his life by assisting him with his health issues and enabling him to enjoy a productive, healthy lifestyle since his last surgery. He also wants to thank his cardiologist Dr. Ross Zimmer (Penn) and his family physician, Dr. John Walsh (Penn), for their care and professionalism. Bryn Mawr Rehab and the Springfield Healthplex played key roles in Michael’s healing process. Cardiac rehab specialists at Springfield Healthplex were helpful in monitoring his workouts and giving him the confidence to push himself, again. Michael takes care of himself by eating healthy and staying active. For anyone who may need a bit of encouragement with whatever they are going through, Michael has some advice. “Never give up. Take one day at a time, believe in yourself and surround yourself with people that love you and support you. Be patient. Value your blessings and opportunities and always give back when you can by helping other people get through their dilemmas or challenges.” PRH
gohomephilly.com
Real People Real Stories
Frankie LaMacchia and daughter Gianna by Capture Photography
photos by Capture Photography
FRANKIE LAMACCHIA Destined to overcome
“The marvelous richness of human experience would lose something of rewarding joy if there were no limitations to overcome. The hilltop hour would not be half so wonderful if there were no dark valleys to traverse.” -Helen Keller
D
ecember 6th, 1998, started out as a normal Sunday for Frankie LaMacchia, a Senior Business Analyst for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Soon, however, the day became better known as his date with destiny. The weather was an unusual 75 degrees and Frankie was Christmas shopping. Later, he decided to visit some friends at a Center City restaurant where he once worked nights and weekends. He told his mom he was going
out with his motorcycle. She never liked the idea of him riding one. Around 7:50 pm, she got the call. He was involved in a motorcycle accident and she needed to come to Jefferson Hospital right away. Frankie was riding north on Broad Street when an SUV made a left turn. Frankie had the right of way and tried to avoid an accident but the vehicles were too close. They collided. After five surgeries and two weeks in the intensive care unit, Frankie was given the worse prognosis. He sustained a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed just below the chest down. At first, he couldn’t process what he was being told. It was devastating and many tears were shed.
It wasn’t long for the tears of sorrow to switch to tears of joy, though, as Frankie had an overwhelming outreach of support. Family and friends were right by his side. The patient visiting areas were jammed packed to the point that it looked like a concession area; full of food and gifts. He would have anywhere from 20-50 visitors a day. Everyone was in his corner rooting for him. The words, ‘If anyone can do this, it’s you, Frankie,’ were repeated until it resonated deep into his mind. Frankie knew in his heart that by the grace of God, family and friends, he was going to get through this and be okay. Twenty years later, blessed is an understatement. People ask him all
the time, “Where or what do you think you would be doing right now if you hadn’t been in your accident?” His answer is always the same. He’s exactly where he is supposed to be. Everything happens for a reason. Every year on December 6th, Frankie - a loving father, son, brother - celebrates his life. He eats cake with loved ones and shares stories. It’s not a day of sadness. He has so much to be thankful for and many people to thank. His future is optimistic and promising. His goal is to be the best father to his daughter and live without boundaries. Frankie’s disability does not define him. His advice to everyone is to always maintain a positive attitude. Be optimistic, kind, love one another, never sweat the small stuff. Stress is the enemy so manage it and control it. Don’t let it control you. Every day is a gift. We have good days and bad days. Having a positive attitude will help you surpass many of the challenges we all face. PRH
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April / May / June 2019
Real People Real Stories
GINA GANNONE
G
Ready for battle
ina Gannone is a mother. A bookkeeper by trade, but a mother first and foremost. She was born and raised in South Philadelphia but recently moved to North Cape May – a perfect location for Gina who loves anything that has to do with summer. Last year, Gina found out that her childhood friend Eva Silvestro was battling breast cancer. Gina visited her immediately and couldn’t believe that Eva was going through this
at such a young age – even younger than Gina. Soon after visiting with Eva, Gina started to notice that her cat kept pawing at the same spot on her breast. She went for a mammogram in March 2018 and found out that she, too, had breast cancer. With a recent move to a new town, Gina was not familiar with local doctors. That’s when friends Marianne Scully and Rita Genovese jumped into action. They took time off from work to help Gina get all of her medical records and an appointment at MD Anderson Cooper with Chief Oncologist Dr. Generosa Grana. Gina was seen very soon after her diagnosis which gave her the time to learn more about her diagnosis and make choices that would be best for her. She ended up needing a double mastectomy.
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Gina recently finished her six rounds of chemo. Each dose was 14 days long. With thanks to her surgeon Dr. Patricia Martz of Cape Regional Physicians Associates and Oncologist Dr. Tiffany Pompa of Hope Cancer Center in Cape May County, she is on the road to recovery. She credits the support of her family, as well. Her mother, stepmother and father all played a huge part in her treatments and recovery. Her best friend Tracy D’Adamo stayed with her throughout her hospital stay. Without their daily conversations, Gina doesn’t know how she would have been able to cope with the diagnosis and treatments. Tracy kept her spirits up, she said, with daily laughs and positivity. Though she was recovering from her own
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
cancer diagnosis, her friend Eva was also there for Gina – providing her with a wealth of knowledge and care packages. She says her son Rocco was her strength throughout her ordeal and she is incredibly grateful for all he has done and continues to do to support her recovery. Last October, DJ Russ Ferrante chose Gina as the recipient of the proceeds from his 8th Annual Drink Pink event held at Toll Man Joe’s. Each year, Drink Pink Philadelphia supports a local woman who is battling breast cancer. The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, where her son is employed, also made a generous donation toward her recovery. This June, Rocco will graduate high school and Gina is looking forward to watching the ceremony. She can’t wait to start enjoying all of the amazing people in her life and the little things we often take for granted. “Your mind is very powerful. Go into your battles with the mindset that you will beat this. Each and every one of us is a survivor of our own individual battles.” PRH
gohomephilly.com
Real People Real Stories
DONNA LAMAINE
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March on
arch 7th is Donna Lamaine’s wedding anniversary. It’s also the date she was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (the most common form of breast cancer), during her yearly mammogram three years ago. After researching several doctors, she chose to go to Fox Chase Cancer Center for her treatment. Her surgeon Dr. John Daly explained that Donna’s cancer was caught early and most likely required
radiation. She had a lumpectomy on March 25, 2016 and several lymph nodes also were removed. When she met with Dr. Daly after the surgery to read the pathology report, her world turned upside down. The report showed that Donna had HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) which makes cancer fast growing. Not only would she need chemotherapy, but she also had to take Herceptin and Perjeta infusions. During Donna’s year-long treatment, she met Oncologist Dr. Robert Carlson. She credits her doctors and the nursing staff at Fox Chase for making her treatments bearable. She also underwent six weeks of daily radiation treatment and credits Dr. Stephanie Weiss and her staff as being exceptional. Unfortunately, Donna suffered some side-effects of
chemo, including a condition called butterfly rash, which caused painful redness in her face. And though she lost her hair, she was very happy with her wig and received more compliments on her hair than ever before! Family and friends were with Donna during her “year from hell.” They prayed, sent flowers, delivered food and made care packages. Her family includes husband Tom Lamaine (former CBS-3 Meteorologist), her parents Nick and Grace Ruggiano, sisters Marygrace and Karen, her brothersin-law, nieces, nephews, a great nephew and a great niece. This year, Donna and Tom Lamaine celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary. She hopes and prays each night the cancer doesn’t return. She prays that everyone going through cancer treatments will be healed. Donna also
hopes that every woman who reads this and hasn’t scheduled their yearly mammogram will make an appointment. Today. Something so small and detected early turned out to require one year of chemo treatments. She thanks God for the person who read the mammogram at Jefferson Methodist Hospital and found the tumor – less than 1 cm in size. Donna spent many days speaking with other women being treated at Fox Chase. For everyone who may be feeling bad about themselves while going through a similar situation, Donna encourages you to speak to others who are also going through treatment. There will be people who have it worse than you and by speaking to them, she decided to never complain or feel bad for herself again. Donna retired in 2014 at the age of 55 with 35 years of government service from the Department of Defense where she was a Program Manager for submarine antennas. Now, she spends her time walking, reading and sitting on the beach. Most importantly, she looks forward to her future and living a long, beautiful, healthy life. PRH
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April / May / June 2019
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Your favorite South Philly Father-Son real estate duo for all your real estate needs in PA, NJ and DE. 1608 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19148 Cell: (calls and texts) 267-688-1449 | office: 215-334-3333 mgiangiordano1016@gmail.com 46
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
T
by Rachel Porter
his non-profit organization was established in 2008 but the story began when Paul Isenberg, Founder and CEO, first met his love, Nicole Makowski. In the fall of 1983, Paul met Nicole at a bus stop in West Chester but the spark ignited four years later when they began dating. They eventually got married and had two children, Christopher and Gabrielle. During Nicole’s second pregnancy, at 32 years old, she was informed she had Stage IV Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She gave birth to a healthy baby and started intense chemotherapy gohomephilly.com
right after for six years. The family’s world spiraled as they juggled finances, raised two children and tried to provide Nicole with the best possible treatment. Despite the hurdles, they received endless love and became part of a large community. During treatment, Nicole suggested that Paul get all the ‘great guys’ he knew together for a benefit dinner to reconnect and provide support to less fortunate families. “Nicole and I thought to ourselves ‘What can we do to help?’ She was completely selfless and loving and wanted to make sure other people were in a better place,” Paul says. The first ‘Great Guys Dinner’ began in 2001 with 100 guys and raised $13,000 for the American Cancer Society. While Paul continued to meet people, the Great Guys GROUP grew with events, donors and people who wanted to share their story. Nicole fought hard but her battle ended in 2003. “She loved the beach, ice cream, Chinese food, running and walks. She had a bright, open personality and was always determined,” Paul shares. A part of her lives on as the organization continues to expand and people who were part of the team started to become family. Eventually they changed the name to ‘Bringing Hope Home.’ The organization doesn’t pay for medical bills but offers assistance to help families cover their householdrelated bills. For the team at Bringing Hope Home, their main goal is assuring people they’re not alone. To date, they have helped 5,320 families with $6.3 million in assistance. “We [the team] understand the problem and the challenges they have. It’s not exact but we’ve been on the same road for a little bit. If we can, we provide support just to give them a little break,” Paul says. “The team I work with carries me. They work with our families and run this office more than me. The people we meet aren’t patients to us, they are family and they belong to us.” For a family to qualify for assistance from Bringing Hope Home, they can work with their social worker to apply. The BHH website provides a more detailed explanation along with how you can nominate a family or become part of their community. Visit www.bringinghopehome.org PRH
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GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER. | ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 47
April / May / June 2019
REAL
ESTATE Women In Business: Barbara Capozzi
A Stroll in the park The grass looks greener for historic FDR Park
“Parks and playgrounds are the soul of a city.” – Marty Rubin
C
by Jane Roser photos by Andrew Andreozzi onstructed on the reclaimed marshlands of Greenwich Island and designed by the Olmsted Brothers (sons of iconic Central Park designer Frederick Law Olmsted), South Philadelphia’s FDR Park opened to the public in 1921 as League Island Park and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the region. The 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition was held here and in 2000, the park was added to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. With such vast offerings as 20 tennis courts,
R E A L E S TAT E
eight fields, a golf course, lakes, a world-famous skate park and the American Swedish Historical Museum (which has the distinction of being the oldest Swedish museum in the United States), FDR Park is a Philadelphia treasure. Unfortunately, decades of substantial use and neglect have taken a toll on the 350acre park. Now, for the first time in its history, FDR Park is looking
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at a new master plan to revitalize the park and restore it back to its original intent as an urban oasis. The dedicated planning team of the Fairmount Park Conservancy, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, Friends of FDR Park and WRT have been working closely with the community to come up with a shared vision for the park’s future. Barbara Capozzi, President of the Packer Park Civic Association and a passionate member of the Friends
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of FDR Park, recalls growing up in South Philly and spending her childhood enjoying picnics and a dip in the lakes. “People are surprised when I mention that but everyone did swim in the lakes back then,” she says. Capozzi expresses her immense appreciation for the hard-working volunteers and the public’s involvement. “The team here has been so thorough and has done a tremendous amount of work. They’ve been incredibly detailed and empathetic to the needs and future of the park.” One of the biggest challenges is FDR Park’s location adjacent to Lincoln Financial Field, which has continually created a bit of a parking headache. “We are in the heart of a stadium district which brings thousands of cars and people,” Capozzi says, “so it can be a difficult
gohomephilly.com
Philly
“I encourage everyone to drive down here,” Capozzi says, “pick up a cup of coffee and just relax. It sure beats staying at home and watching television.” balance. Since we’re a public park, we don’t charge admission fees. We do charge for parking during big games and events because people will park in the Park anyway and the net proceeds from those parking fees goes into a ‘Trust Fund’ for FDR Park, used to fund significant Park improvements.” When the planning team recently asked the community to participate in a survey on what they’d most like to see at the park, the response was overwhelming. The most desired facilities on participants’ lists included hiking and biking trails, restrooms, trails and paths, cafes, observation and lookout areas, picnic groves and playgrounds, as well as making access to the park easier. “There’s conflicting visions of what a park should be,” Capozzi says, “but I’m pleased to say that there was a great response to preserv-
ing the natural integrity of the park while making it easier to enjoy it.” In addition, the team has a detailed list of goals that would enhance a visitor’s enjoyment of the park. These include increased access to recreation fields, diverse experiences for all ages, creating and enhancing natural habitats, improving water quality and flow (difficult hydrology has been a major challenge considering the park was built on a marshland) and renewing the impact the park has in terms of shaping the city’s identity. Capozzi is especially excited about the possibility of a potential art installation throughout the park created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo who sculpts giant trolls using reclaimed wood and recycled materials. Our parks are a place to find peace, pleasure, renewal and enrichment. They are the great equalizer as people
from all walks of life find enjoyment in their beauty and tranquility. Nature is a poetic gift not to be taken for granted but cherished and maintained to pass down through generations as an enduring legacy. As a safe, familyfriendly destination, FDR Park is a place where families can bestow on their children the value and importance of taking care of and cherishing the environment while working together to better the community. “I encourage everyone to drive down here,” Capozzi says, “pick up a cup of coffee and just relax. It sure beats staying at home and watching television.” To find more about FDR Park, subscribe to the newsletter, donate or volunteer, go to: www.fdrparkphilly.org To find out more about the artist behind the giant trolls: www. thomasdambo.comPRH
April / May / June 2019
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REAL
ESTATE
On the Block Location: 351 Gladstone St. 3 Bed, 1 1/2 Baths Listing Price: $279,900 Welcome to 351 Gladstone Street, a gorgeous rehab in Whitman! As you approach this classic rowhome, you are greeted by a beautiful, brand new gray modern stucco/dryvit front. Walk in to a modern foyer entry. Continuing on, you will be wowed by an exciting living room/dining room combo featuring high ceilings, hardwood floors throughout and modern amenities. The eat-in kitchen boasts tile floors, granite countertops and the perfect amount of cabinet space with slam proof drawers. It comes complete with upgraded stainless steel appliances, a large double-door refrigerator with bottom freezer, dishwasher, microwave, gas range and garbage disposal. The yard is spacious and features an upper patio with lower patio, as well. Two windows let in plenty of natural light on the first floor, framed wih modern iron railings! The basement is fully finished with tile floors, utility closet, W/D hookups and a large half-bath. Two front windows flood this level with amazing natural light! The second floor features three nice-sized bedrooms with brand new wallwall carpets and a good amount of natural light and closet space. The bathroom is brand new and modern complete with tiled bath/shower! Simply beautiful. All new windows! All new systems! Central Air! Owner just had the roof coated, too. Move right in and make this place your new home!
Contact: Michael Giangiordano II CENTURY 21 Forrester RE 267-688-1449 Mgiangiordano1016@gmail.com
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REAL
ESTATE
In the blink of an eye… Courtesy of FETTERMAN DESIGN GROUP fettermandesigngroup.com
... you realize your “tweener” has grown into a teenager. They’ve grown more independent and have begun to develop their own unique sense of style. But their bedroom – the center of their young universe – still echoes their adolescence and needs some thoughtful updating. Fetterman Design Group offers these simple design tips to help get your project in motion.
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“Queen of the Boardwalk” Full service building with pool, gym, security, valet parking. Too many amenities to mention! Available apartment #1005 is 1050 s.f. - 1 bedroom, 2 full bath. Murphy bed for guests. $279K. Being sold fully furnished. Water and AC skyline views. Large balcony. Contact Robin for listing details.
Robin “the Realtor” Mitchell BHHS Fox & Roach Realtors Margate Office 9218 Ventnor Ave. Margate, NJ
Office: 609-822-4200 Direct: 609-487-5013 Cell: 215-266-8334 robin.mitchell@foxroach.com
Start with a clean slate. Rid the room of outdated furnishings and decor. It’s easiest to envision a fresh design when the space is empty or near-empty. Keep in mind that your child’s bedroom needs have changed. Where they once only slept and played with toys will now most likely require furnishings for comfortable lounging and completing homework.
ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING BUILDING DEVELOPMENT SERVICES NEW HOME DESIGN RENOVATION DESIGN ADAPTIVE REUSE RESTUARANT & RETAIL DESIGN ADDITIONS & ENGINEERING BUILDING & ZONING PERMIT SERVICES
Choose a color palette. The color scheme that you and your child decide on will be used on the walls, in the furnishings and the flooring. For example, if you implement muted gold knobs on the dresser, use the same color for the drapery hardware. Reflect your child’s personality. Together, choose furniture and wall art that reflects your child’s personality, interests and style. Decide where to place the furniture for maximum comfort and practical use. Maybe you want to incorporate some treasured sentimental memorabilia into the new design as a nod to their early years. Hang a pushpin board so your teenager can hang pictures, medals and other special mementos from their childhood. Have a seat! For lounging, try a cool swivel chair, a beanbag chair or a braided swing suspended from the ceiling. For schoolwork, consider a cool-colored ergonomic work desk that provides a healthy work area and matches the color scheme of the room. Most of all, have fun with the design! Be creative! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
LANDMARK Architectural Design, LLC VINCENT S. MANCINI, AIA AGATA M. REISTER & ASSOCIATES
1325 Snyder Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148 tel: (215) 755-9050 email: office@landmarkaia.com WWW.LANDMARKAIA.COM
Need help? Call Cindy or Jackie / 856.534.3094 / 856.264.6816 for an introductory consult. Fetterman Design Group is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network.
April / May / June 2019
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PRHTIPS FROM THE PROS
Chemical Safety Update
Never mix ammonia & chlorine bleach courtesy of
RON RABENA
Chief Administrative Officer, Allied Universal www.aus.com
❚ Chemical Safety Everyone encounters chemicals on a regular basis whether at work, at home or in recreational activities. You may directly handle chemicals such as cleaning products; you may have indirect exposure to chemicals such as pesticides; or you may have what we call “potential exposures” to chemicals on a routine basis. Here are some best practices to follow should you be exposed to chemicals in the event of an accidental release. ❚ Safety Tips Never combine any products that contain ammonia and chlorine bleach. When these common household substances are combined, they form a gas that is highly toxic and can result in serious breathing difficulties or death. Always take the time to read the warning label on any chemical product you use. Read container labels, safety data sheets or special instructions before you handle a chemical. ❚ Use Chemicals Safely Ventilation. Make sure the area where you are working is well ventilated.
Get fresh air. If you experience any dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea or a headache, move to fresh air immediately. Wear protective gear. Wear the recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which may include safety gloves, safety glasses or goggles, a mask, respirator and safety shoes. Inspect all PPE before use. Look for defects in the equipment and replace if necessary. Rinse skin immediately. If the chemical gets on your skin, wash the area immediately using warm soapy water. Wash your hands after handling chemicals, especially before eating. ❚ Hazard Awareness Know chemicals. Identify the chemicals that you use or could be exposed to at work. Potential exposures include the chemicals that could be released from storage or a closed process in the event of an accident or emergency. Inform family members. Properly inform your family members on how to handle chemicals to which they could be exposed.
Chemical Exposure Methods
Common Household Chemicals
Inhalation. Breathing in dusts, mists and vapors Ingestion. Eating contaminated food Absorption. Skin contact with a chemical Injection. Forcing an agent into the body through a needle or a high-pressure device
Gasoline, paints, fertilizers, lawn chemicals, bug spray, paint strippers, kerosene, bleach and household cleaners. Container labeling and safe storage are important steps to keep your family safe.
Ron Rabena, Allied Universal, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network.
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
gohomephilly.com
#
Team In Our Market
Center City South Team
Michael Giuda & Mario Tropea Jr., have built the Center City South Team into a top producing real estate team. Having a strong passion and drive for all aspects of real estate, Center City South Team With Keller Williams has a very impressive and accomplished resume, with an outstanding reputation. With their established and reputable career, you can trust you are in the best of hands. Their knowledge, connections and enthusiasm will ensure a seamless and successful real estate experience.
Michael Giuda Office 215-227-3333 Mobile 215-783-3697 Email Mgiuda@kw.com www.sellinginphilly.com
Mario Tropea Jr Office 215-389-2222 Fax 215-389-0337 Mobile 215-783-3698 Email mariocentercity@gmail.com
Philly Dream Homes
PRHTIPS FROM THE PROS LEGAL
& RDER LAWO What you need to know about
CASH GIFTS & REAL ESTATE by FRANK C. DEPASQUALE JR., ESQUIRE
Q: I gave my grandson $4000
SL
Construction & Improvements LLC slrconstruction4@gmail.com Licensed and Insured
215-669-7248 215-260-0748 54
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
that I have been saving for him my entire life. It was either for college or to be used to buy his first home. He’s using it to buy his first home! The bank asked me to sign a gift letter to confirm that I gave him the cash. I don’t use banks except for the money I deposit to pay my monthly bills. And I knew I wouldn’t touch it if I saved it separately for my grandson at home. Is this gift letter enough proof for the bank? Do you have any advice for others in the same situation? What is the best way to give your family member a cash gift when they use it toward the purchase of a new home?
A:
Unfortunately, some lenders require that the money be in the donor’s bank account for a sufficient period of time before it can be used as a gift. Banks are concerned that potential “gifts” may be disguised as additional debt of the donee affecting their credit worthiness. If the bank is willing to accept a letter acknowledging a cash gift, the letter should state the donor’s name, address and phone number and relationship to the donee, the amount of the
gift, the address of the property it is being used to purchase and a declaration that it is a gift and that there is no expectation that it be repaid. Gifts in excess of $3,000 made by an individual who passes away within a year of the date of the gift would be subject to Pennsylvania inheritance tax. Congratulations to Dorette & Dawn on your 15th anniversary of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine! I remember your first issue like it was yesterday! Thank you for telling the stories of our neighborhoods and local businesses and keeping the memories around for all of us to enjoy. I wish you and your team many more years of success and happiness. My best, Frank DePasquale
Once again, Frank DePasquale has been recognized by his peers as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for 2018. He heads DePasquale Law Offices, 2332-34 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145. P: 215.755.4410. Email him at frank@depasquale-law.com or visit www.depasquale-law.com
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by Matt Kelchner hiladelphia police officer for 10 years, Food Network’s Ultimate Grand Chopped Champion, a master’s degree, post-baccalaureate certification in paralegal. For most people, having just one of these on their list of achievements would be enough for a lifetime. For the famed “cop-turned-chef” Diana Sabater,
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she’s just getting started. Next on her list? Entrepreneurship. Currently, Sabater owns and operates an online store selling homemade seasonings. The idea came to her one afternoon while experimenting with homemade hot sauces in the kitchen. She thought, “I could make spice blends for people that make it really easy to flavor their food.” And thus, Diana’s Spice Cantina was born. Sabater does all the heavylifting for her latest endeavour. Well, she actually does all of the lifting. From drying and blending the spices, right down to creating her own compost to use, Sabater does it all. When she’s not hard at work creating a new batch of products to sell, she’s developing new ones. Sabater even keeps a notebook close by at all times to jot down all of the great ideas that come to mind. The love of cooking was instilled at a very young age. Some of Sabater’s earliest memories of the kitchen center around her grandmother. “Whenever she was in the kitchen, she dominated the kitchen,” she emphasized while recounting all of the delicious Puerto Rican meals her grandmother made. “That was her place.”
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Despite all of this, becoming a professional chef was never something a young Sabater strived to be. “My plan was to learn many different languages and travel the world as an FBI agent,” she recalls. “I wanted to be that femme fatale who was solving crimes all over the world.” But after failing the FBI program admissions test twice, she set her eyes on a more local level - becoming a Philadelphia police officer. A friend suggesested Sabater gain some in-field experience before attempting to take the FBI test again. So she set out to join the ranks of the proud men and women patrolling and protecting our streets. “Being a Philadelphia cop, there was never a dull moment.” She wound up working the midnight shift in the same district she grew up in – Hunting Park. “I got to see a side of the area that I didn’t see growing up.” It was unfortunately, a darker, more dangerous one. Sabater explains how civilians don’t always see the same side as cops. Growing up, her mom moved her family out of the neighborhood and into Olney, in search of a better area to raise her children. After she retired from the force, Sabater swore she would never go back to the area. But years later, she
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
came back with Esperanza, a faithbased non-profit organization that seeks to strengthen the Hispanic community. “They showed me the progress that they helped to make in Hunting Park.” She was shocked, but in a good way. Esperanza helped to set up an Amish farmers market on Saturdays, built community gardens, and even planted an apple orchard. “It was nice to see that the area was not being neglected.” Sabater’s goal in any job she has is to see herself grow and evolve. After 10 years, obtaining a master’s degree and post-baccalaureate certification, she never got the promotion she hoped for in the police force. Around the same time, the Food Network was hosting auditions for Chopped, a show that pits professional chefs of all backgrounds against one another. “For fun, I decided to apply to go on this food competition.” Not only was she picked to compete, but Sabater won. And she kept winning until she eventually become the Ultimate Grand Chopped Champion. With her confidence high and a head full of steam, switching careers seemed like it was destined to happen now. After winning, Sabater thought to herself, ‘Okay, great, now I have credibility with this title. Now I can take things to the next level.’ Her first professional cooking job saw her making routine trips north to New York City. “I’m either going to sink or swim” she says. “The
first opportunity I’m going to get, I’m going to run with it.” Within weeks, she was getting booked for dinner parties. In true Sabater fashion, she continued brainstorming new ideas and ventures, even while finding success in New York. “I liked the idea of being mobile.” The thought of owning her own food truck could not escape Sabater’s mind. “I had an opportunity to get a food truck but the deal fell through,” she says. Her dreams of owning a food truck had crumbled and it was a huge financial loss. Sabater stopped cooking but not for long. “After a couple days of mourning the loss, I told myself, ‘okay you’ve got to get up and get back into the kitchen.’” That’s when Diana’s Spice Cantina was born. Ideas started to flow, again. Hot sauces, spice blends, even cooking aprons. There are plenty of people who go through a difficult situation, get crushed and give up. “I’m not that kind of person. I’m not going to give up on myself. One of my strongest assets is my creativity.” Looking back, Sabater acknowledges that the highs and lows she’s experienced have been nothing short of unique. “It’s been quite a journey. With everything in my life, I’ve learned that when something doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean I need to stop what I’m doing. It just means I need to regroup and take what I learned from the past situation to make the next one even better.” PRH gohomephilly.com
COURTESY OF CHEF DIANA SABATER
ARROZ CON
GANDULES
This dish connects me to my Puerto Rican roots and reminds me of my Grandma Paula who passed away two years ago. This recipe is also on my blog: www.chefdianasabater.wordpress.com
➜1 cup Spanish
Chorizo, cubed ➜1 15 oz. can Pigeon Peas, drained ➜1 /4 cup capers
INGREDIENTS ➜1 tbsp Diana’s Spice Cantina Adobo Rojo ➜1 tbsp Diana’s Spice Cantina Dry Sofrito
➜1 /2 cup to-
mato sauce
➜3 cups water ➜2 cup rice, long grain
➜S alt, to taste
DIRECTIONS
Heat large pot over medium heat, add chorizo and cook for two minutes. Stir in pigeon peas, capers, adobo rojo, dry sofrito and tomato sauce. Cook for three minutes. Add water, rice and salt (season to your liking). As soon as the water starts to boil, lower heat to a simmer, tightly cover the pot. *Kitchen tip. Use aluminum foil to help seal in liquid when cooking rice. Cook for 30 minutes or until the rice is done. Do not keep checking the rice and lifting the lid. The rice will become mushy from too much stirring. Keep the heat on simmer and only check after 30 minutes. Serves 4. Enjoy!
PRH Suggested Signature Wine Pairing by Vincent Novello Illusion Lodi $14
215.755.7180 3120 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Monday-Thursday • 11am-9pm Friday&Saturday • 11am-11pm Sunday • 12pm-9pm
We would like to welcome Benny Marsella and friends back every Saturday night. Happy Hour Monday through Friday 4:006:30PM. Visit our website for all of our upcoming events! Visit
w w w. p o p i s r e s t a u r a n t . c o m for entertainment lineup
April / May / June 2019
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PRHTHE MENU INGREDIENTS
➜1 lb. pizza dough (fresh or frozen) (I’ve used both and while fresh is always best, frozen is easier to work and can
be found at the supermarket in a two pack. ➜ F lour (so it doesn’t stick to the table or rolling pin)
➜ A pproximately
1/2 lb. pepperoni ➜1 bag of shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
DIRECTIONS
Philly COURTESY OF DEBBIE RUSSINO
PEPPERONI
&
CHEESE
STROMBOLI
This delicious treat has been around for years and although it is very simple to make, everyone has their own special twist. I have made stromboli for parties, holidays and sometimes just because they’re delicious! You can fill it with just about anything - vegetables, ham, steak, seafood and so much more! With pizza dough and a little imagination, the possibilities are endless! Here is my take.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sprinkle flour on your surface and roll out the dough as thin as you can. Cover the entire pizza dough from top to bottom with pepperoni. Overlap to make sure entire surface is covered. Do the same with the cheese. Roll the stuffed dough tightly and push the ends down to keep it closed. Coat the top with an egg wash to get a beautiful golden color. Place the stromboli in a greased cookie sheet or pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until lightly browned on top and bottom. Remove from oven and wrap in paper towels to soak up the excess oil. After they are cooled, cut them in thin slices and serve. Leftovers can be stored in freezer and taken out as needed. Thaw and pop them in the oven or microwave to warm.Optional: make a light marinara sauce on the side for those who like to dip! Dessert stromboli? Try Nutella or dark chocolate with fresh fruit and nuts rolled in dough and topped with powdered sugar and walnuts. Baste the top with melted butter and bake.
PRH Suggested Signature Wine Pairing by Vincent Novello Lilium Merlot $10
Meet me at the Penrose
PENROSE DINER 20th & Penrose Avenue Philadelphia, Pa.
215.465.1097 Open 7 days S-Th: 6 am to midnight F&S: 24 hours
Food for thought 58
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S E RV I N G B R E A K F A S T, L U N C H & D I N N E R
gohomephilly.com
Junk
TOO MUCH
IN THE TRUNK
College & the Obesity Crisis by CHEF MITZI JACKSON Private Chef St. Anthony Hall University of Pennsylvania
R
Philly ecently, the National Champs were fed burgers and fries in the White House. While we all enjoy a good burger occasionally, is this something that our kids and transitioning adults should be eating every day in college? The answer is No. A steady diet of fast food and junk food are taking a toll on
MENU
our college kids and the nation’s obesity crisis. A lack of funds, minimal access to college cafeterias during off-hours and a shortage of nutritional information are contributing to the problem. Parents already footing the bill for college costs and tuition have fewer dollars to contribute toward grocery shopping for healthier choices. If you are a parent with kids in college, what can you do? Sit down and discuss your student’s daily food choices. What times are they eating? Suggest better times they can fit a nutritious meal or snack into an already hectic schedule. Recommend healthier replacement options. If fast food is their go-to, suggest several fast food breakfast options under 360 calories like McDonald’s Egg McMuffin or Starbucks Classic Whole Grain Oatmeal as tasty replacements. No time for breakfast? Tell them to mix up a quick, inexpensive option like fresh fruit – berries or bananas – with oatmeal. Since oatmeal is loaded with fiber, it will fill you up without packing on the pounds. Fresh fruit is packed with carbohydrates for a quick boost of energy. Are your kids still craving the fast food fix? Suggest they eat their
quick-pick favorites earlier in the day to give them time to burn the calories before bed. Parents wrestling with paying toward your student’s education and a healthier grocery list, have a conversation. Talk about their grocery list and their budget. Look for sales and stock up on healthier snacks like granola bars and yogurt. Instead of regular potato chips, suggest baked chips. While we all want to make better choices, it’s not always possible. Being aware of the foods you put into your body is the first step to a healthier lifestyle. And don’t forget to count calories. The basic formula is taking your weight and multiplying it times 12 if you are an active person. If you don’t exercise at all, multiply your weight times 10. Try not to exceed that number of calories per day. As parents, we have many responsibilities. It is also our jobs to make sure that our kids are taking care of themselves to live a long healthy life. If you are like me, I try to eat healthy along with my kids so that we can develop good habits together. So, the next time you pack up that “trunk” for school, be aware of what you are putting into it. It might be a little heavier with fruit instead of chips, but our kids are totally worth it. Let’s all eat to win. PRH
www.lombardimeats.com B E E F / P O R K / P O U LT R Y / V E A L / L A M B / P R E PA R E D F O O D S
Anthony, Vince & Vincent “Three generations; a team that is a cut above the rest.”
1801 Packer Avenue / Philadelphia, PA 19145 P: 215.940.2211 / P: 215.334.1212 / F: 215.940.2210 Photo by Andrew Andreozzi
April / May / June 2019
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PRHTHE MENU COURTESY OF LOMBARDI’S PRIME MEATS
PAN SEARED
FILET MIGNON
WITH MUSHROOM SAUCE l o m b a r d i m e at s . c o m
➜4 filet mignon
steaks ➜1 pound cremini mushrooms, washed and thickly sliced ➜3 tablespoons butter, divided
INGREDIENTS ➜2 tablespoons olive oil, divided ➜1 large sprig of fresh thyme ➜1 large sprig of fresh rosemary ➜1 large sprig of parsley
➜ s ea salt ➜ f resh black pepper ➜1 /2 cup cabernet or dry red wine
➜1 /2 cup beef stock ➜1 /2 cup heavy cream
DIRECTIONS
Remove steaks from refrigerator. Pat dry with paper towels and set aside until room temperature.
PREPARE SAUCE
In a medium sauté pan over high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until hot. Add mushrooms and sauté on high for two minutes. Reduce to medium high and add the whole sprigs of herbs to the bottom of the pan. Add salt and pepper. Continue to cook until mushrooms are browned, about three more minutes. Add wine to deglaze and cook until no liquid is left. Add beef stock. Reduce by half. Remove from heat. Remove sprigs of herbs. Stir in cream. Keep warm while steaks are cooking.
PREPARE STEAKS
In a heavy bottom or a cast iron skillet, over medium high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon oil. Pat dry steaks again and season with salt and pepper. When butter is finished foaming, add the steaks and sear on each side. For medium-rare, sear 3 to 5 minutes per side. For medium, sear 5 to 6 minutes. Half way through cooking, flip steaks over. Transfer steaks to platter. Top with mushroom sauce. LOMBARDI’S PRIME MEATS IS A MEMBER OF THE PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME (PRH) BUSINESS NETWORK.
PRH Signature Wine Pairing by Vincent Novello Odisseia Tinto 60
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gohomephilly.com
COURTESY OF LAUREN LAMANTIA
VEGAN VEGETABLE STEW & VEGAN CHILI VEGAN CHILI
VEGETABLE STEW ➜6 cups of water ➜O ne bag of
small mixed potatoes, diced ➜2 carrots, chopped ➜2 celery stalks, chopped
INGREDIENTS ➜1 small onion, diced ➜ a single clove of garlic, crushed
➜1 cup of almond milk
➜2 tablespoons vegan butter
INGREDIENTS
➜2 tablespoons
of paprika ➜ a teaspoon of onion powder ➜1 /4 teaspoon pepper and salt ➜2 tablespoons of Tiger Nut organic flour
DIRECTIONS
Salt the water and bring to a boil. Add in potatoes, carrots, celery and onion. Cook until tender. Drain the water and save to use in a future soup recipe (you can freeze it). Add the almond milk, butter, flour and spices into the stew. Simmer and stir. Add more spices and butter if desired. Serve.
➜2 tablespoons
vegan olive oil ➜1 onion, diced ➜1 red or green (or both!) pepper, diced ➜M eatless ground crumble of your
choice (I prefer Gardein Beefless Grounds) ➜1 can (28 oz.) crushed organic tomato ➜3 oz. of tomato paste ➜1 can (15 oz.) of
organic dark red kidney beans ➜1 /2 teaspoon of onion powder ➜1 to 2 teaspoons of chili powder (to taste) ➜1 to 2 teaspoons of cumin (to taste)
DIRECTIONS
Add olive oil to pan, heat. Add in onions and pepper, mix and sauté. Add in meatless ground crumble stir. Add in tomato, tomato paste, kidney beans. Stir and mix in the spices. Serve with pasta or jasmine rice for a more filling meal.
PRH Suggested Signature Wine Pairing by Vincent Novello Commanderie Rose $16
Deli l Catering l Gift Baskets
215.463.9666 | 215.463.4975 Fax Give us a call because we do it all j Full-Service Deli j Homemade Daily Specials j Soup j Signature Salads j Hot & Cold Sandwiches j Free Delivery! j Corporate & Private Catering j Event Planning
Gourmet Gift Baskets & Specialty Italian Foods Shipped Anywhere!
April / May / June 2019
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PRHTHE MENU FLOWER SHOW
Flower Power!
THE 2019 THEME OF THE PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW
FLORIST
EVENTS
Wedding
Specialists
was a throwback to the Sixties with exhibits and displays that inspired visitors to embrace peace, love and hippie-inspired art from premier floral and landscape designers from around the world. Started in 1829 by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, The Philadelphia Flower Show is the nation’s largest and longest-running horticultural event. Here are some photos from Iveta Buonacuore. Check out more photos by Iva on our blog. If you like planning ahead, the theme for the 2020 Flower Show will be Riviera Holiday, inspired by the world’s exotic Mediterranean gardens.
1921 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-336-3557 800-248-3557 www.tenpenniesflorist.com
Bella Angel Bridal Hair & Makeup
We come to you! Locations in Old City Philadelphia & Cherry Hill, NJ
Voted #1
in Philly for Best Hair & Makeup.
856-227-7774 www
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.bella-angel.com
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
gohomephilly.com
The Birthplace of Freedom
Still Has a King. 9th & Passyunk Avenue
PRH Brides Guide
Bianca Bonanno & Greg DiMeo I love The Lucy by
Joe Volpe
H
ello Philadelphia! Spring has (finally) officially sprung and I don’t know about you, but I am ready for some warmer days and sunshine! I hope everyone has excitedly kicked off the year with an abundance of cheer and immense love – I know we have at Cescaphe! This past Valentine’s Day, we celebrated our 15th anniversary of the very first Cescaphe wedding at Cescaphe Ballroom! Since that day, Cescaphe has had the honor of hosting more than 10,000 weddings over the years! At that capacity, it is our passion every day to make each and every wedding truly unique and special. As one of our first weddings at our newest venue, The Lucy, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bianca Bonanno and Greg DiMeo about their special day. They celebrated their love with us on January 12th, 2019, and I am elated to share with you their love story and wedding journey!
Tell us more about you AND Your wedding
How did you meet? We have known each other from growing up around the same neighborhood as young kids. But as people grow older, they go their separate ways and we hadn’t seen each other in over 20 years! Finally,
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a few years ago, we saw each other at one of my son’s baseball games and that is when Greg asked me to go to dinner. How did the proposal happen? Before the proposal, we went to dinner at the
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
same restaurant where we had our first date. After dinner, we took a walk to Penn’s Landing. As we were walking, it began to rain and Greg stopped to ask a stranger to hold their umbrella over me as he got on one knee. Ironically, the couple whose umbrella we borrowed
gohomephilly.com
got engaged in the exact same spot many years ago. Why did you choose a Cescaphe Wedding? We chose Cescaphe because we had both been to Cescaphe weddings in the past and the food was always phenomenal, the staff always on point and the venues are just stunning. We chose The Lucy because we knew we would be one of the first weddings there and we knew the venue would be nothing short of spectacular. What was your favorite part about wedding planning? I loved that Greg was so involved in the planning process. He is definitely the more decisive one of the two of us so that
was helpful and so much fun! My daughter and I took many adventures on the search for the perfect wedding gown and I will always cherish the number of laughs we shared. It was such a great experience working with each of our vendors. I absolutely loved each member I worked with from Cescaphe, Chelsea from Beautiful Blooms and the ladies from Unveiled, where I bought my gown.
themed – which was awesome! As well as our grand entrance, being introduced as husband and wife for the first time as a canon of rose petals shot off while we danced the night away. As the night came to an end, snow began to fall and we took photos in the snow, which was the perfect ending to an amazing night!
What was your favorite part of your wedding?
I unfortunately just recently lost my grandmother, with whom I was very close. My daughter added a charm to my bouquet with my grandparents’ photo on it, while Beautiful Blooms added my Grandmother’s rosary beads to it, which was so special. Aside from that, we included a memo-
The best part of the wedding was having the ability to actually enjoy ourselves the entire day. It was relieving to see the many details, big or small, come together so beautifully. Our bridal party’s entrance was Eagles
What did you do to make your wedding day extra special?
ry table at the reception, with pictures of our grandparents from their wedding day. What advice would you give to future brides and grooms? During the planning process, have patience with one
another and listen to each other. We would also definitely recommend a Cescaphe venue because they go above and beyond to make the planning process as smooth as possible and make the entire experience stress-free and make your day flawless!
CESCAPHE Credits Client Development Associate: Betsy
Event Coordinator: Danielle
Event Manager: Nikki
Maitre D: Vince
Cescaphe is a member of the PRH Business Network.
by JOSEPH VOLPE, Cescaphe.com
Ever keeping his eyes focused on the latest wedding trends, Cescaphe CEO/Chef Joseph Volpe is recognized as the area’s leading authority on ballroom bliss. With his innovative approach to the most important celebration of your life, his award-winning Cescaphe Ballroom, Tendenza, Vie, The Down Town Club, The Water Works and The Lucy combine a captivating ambiance with exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable experience. Visit cescaphe.com or call 215.238.5750.
VENDOR CREDITS Venue: The Lucy (Cescaphe)
Florist: Beautiful Blooms
Band/DJ: Benny Marsella for cocktail hour and MG Entertainment for the reception
Invitations & Stationery: Stacey Matteo Designs
Photographer: Art Work Photography (Louis Anthony)
Videographer: Video by Louis Anthony
Transportation: Limo Today, Inc.
Dress Designer/ Dress Shop: La Sposa by Pronovias / Unveiled
Menswear Designer/Shop: Ike Behar from Rudi’s Formal Wear
April / May / June 2019
Hair: Marissa Campagna
Makeup: Ashley Bohl
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PRHFASHION BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Hot Waves Salon
We want to be the best part of your day by DOMINIQUE VERRECCHIO
D
iane Bosco was born to be a hair designer. Her passion for beauty was inspired by her mother, who Bosco describes as one of the best in the business. “I felt as though I knew what people wanted, needed and loved.” So, without any hesitation, Hot Waves Salon (1200 Ritner Streets) opened its doors on December 8, 1986. The foundation for Hot Waves is built on a few solid principles – passion for the art of hairdressing; dedication to teaching talented hairdressers; and a love for people. Their goal is to provide guests with a haven from the hassles of everyday life where they can walk away with a memorable experience. Bosco built the salon by using her background as an artistic director and costume designer for the Randi Rick and Paul Mazzotta design team, Shear Power. She then went on to teach for RENBOW, one of the leading hair color companies in America at the time. That is where she realized how much she loved training young artists to learn and grow as business women and men. Being a salon owner means a lot to Bosco. “It means having a license to mentor, teach and applaud my staff’s success. It means that I was born to be a leader; someone to put out the fires and also create a place for people to come to relax and enjoy a therapeutic environment. A place to feel better. We want to be the best part of our guest’s day.” Hot Waves Design Team is comprised of 11 staff members. Master designer Maria has been with the company for more than 20 years. Kathleen and Linda have been part of the team for almost 20 years; Nicole has almost 15 years
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on board. Dina (manager), Kelsey, a strong and upcoming designer, Meghan (the color wiz), Leda and Laura, highly skilled chemical assistants and salon coordinator Luke round out the ranks of what Diane refers to as “an amazing group of beauty professionals.” What is their specialty? Anything that involves hair! The salon’s services include cutting, hair coloring, formal hair designing, barbering, Keratin treatments, trend perms and longlasting blowouts for a fun-filled weekend. They are hair extension specialists and provide hair enhancement pieces for those who suffer from hair loss. Makeup artists Dina and Nicole offer on-site consultation and application. When asked about hair trends for 2019, Bosco explains, “We are creating ashier blondes while still having a slight element of gold running through. Of course the bright fashion shades are still strong, such as green, blue, purples. There will always be room for that sizzling hot redhead! Gorgeous brunettes will find that a balayage will serve them well to add a point of interest to their overall color.” The Hot Waves Salon team has entered many competitions in the past, competing against some of the best salons in the tri-state area. “I’m very proud to say that we have taken first place in every show that we ever entered. We have been chosen for the People’s Choice Award as the best salon in our community several times over, including last year 2018. We also pride ourselves in participating in raising money for various causes such as breast cancer research and
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
Crohn’s and Colitis, with an ongoing push to help others in need. My personal accomplishments have been teaching and watching others grow in our industry. Also, I had the pleasure of performing in front of audiences filled with thousands of designers watching me teach them the latest in hair fashion. What a thrill!” Bosco’s favorite blast from the past look is an ‘80s perm. “The bigger the better!” Presently, she loves shattered cuts. Shaggy, sultry and wispy. “For longer hair, waves, movement, iron works, with long shattered layers is the ticket. In the future, I believe that a new form of perms will be back. Not perms as we knew them before, but perms that create soft movement for a quick shampoo and go look. All lengths can benefit by this approach to hair curling. Professional products really do make the difference in the final outcome. We are presently a Eufora Elite Salon and proud of it.” If she could choose to style anyone’s hair, she would choose her mother, Rose Porreca, who is 90 years old. “She has taught me everything that it takes to be successful in the industry. She too has mentored many and has left her mark on this planet.” Bosco’s message to the world is simple - looking good makes you feel good. “I believe that no matter what you wear, your hair should be at its best. You can take a $5000 gown with bad hair and ruin the look but you can have an amazing cut and color and your Kmart outfit will look like $5000. It’s your crown that you wear every day. So, it’s better to look good, darling, than to feel good. Looking good really does help to make you feel good!” PRH gohomephilly.com
PRHFASHION BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Swan Caterers Family business celebrates 52 years of tasty traditions by JOEI DECARLO
W
alking into a catering hall, one may expect to be greeted by some food, drinks and music. When you walk into an event held by Swan Caterers, guests are greeted with smiles. And traditions. With more than 52 years in the industry, owner Carmen D’Aquilante knows a thing or two about combining his family’s homemade dishes and South Philly favorites with new trends. With a long list of loyal clients that date back to the 1960s, D’Aquilante knows the importance of building relationships and keeping them. It’s what made him a forerunner in the business and keeps him in the game when it comes to catering to his clients’ needs. How does he manage to find the perfect combination of foods, tasty treats and personal touches? “It’s all about consistency,” D’Aquilante says. “We’ve had generations of clients. I’m now working with their children for
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their weddings. Clients know what they can expect from a Swan party.” He is especially proud of his themed parties, an event option he added years ago. “I have clients who call me and give me one or two words for a theme, such as luau, Gone with the Wind, etc. and I create a party especially for them – down to specific menu options.” D’Aquilante was only 12 years old when he joined the family catering business to help his father Frank and mother Flo run the company. When his father died in 1999, he took over. Even while working briefly for Prudential Savings Bank, he knew he belonged in the catering business. “I knew I wanted to work with my father, not just on the weekends, but do what he was doing full time. Once I started working in the business full time when I was 19 years old, I never stopped. It’s the best decision I’ve made. Now my children Crystal, Joy and Frank work with me.”
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In the beginning of his career, D’Aquilante took risks by offering unique food options along with the classics. More than 20 years ago, he introduced a signature Swan tradition and one of his customers’ favorite requests – the popular Asian Buffet. Guests could enjoy his family’s homemade meatballs at the first food table and sample dishes from around the world at the next! A sumptuous lineup including fried rice, egg rolls, lo mein and stir fried favorites elevate any party menu from the homemade classics you crave to the sweet and savory surprises that await. Add another Swan signature to your list and treat your guests to a “Taste of South Philly” table complete with Tastkakes, Peanut Chews, soft pretzels and the guest of honor’s name spelled out in a crusty loaf of Italian bread – a personal touch that adds to the family favorites that Swan customers remember for years to come.
Swan not only hosts themedparties and weddings, they host parties that mark any occasion including anniversaries, baby showers, family reunions, business functions, fundraisers and religious events. Swan Caterers has two South Philadelphia locations. The original Swan Caterers at 1500 W. Shunk Street accommodates a minimum of 40 guests. The Waterfall Room at 2015 S. Water Street (on Water Street between Snyder Avenue and McKean Street) accommodates a mimimum of 75 guests and includes parking. With unique options, classic decor and seriously delicious dishes – both traditional and new – D’Aquilante and his team at Swan work countless hours to make sure every event is the best it can be. “It takes a great deal of creativity and effort to stay a notch above the rest and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I love helping clients create the event of their dreams!” PRH gohomephilly.com
Game-changing makeup finds by
Dior, Urban Decay ❱❱
TIPS from the PROS
by VICTORIA DIPIETRO www.bella-angel.com
SPRING AND SUMMER 2019 I love the feeling of renewal that comes with springtime. Soon, oh so soon, we will be embracing the warm weather, spending weekends at the beach or hanging out by the pool. After hiding indoors from the cold, now is the time to start thinking about protecting our skin and hair with a variety of products.
Moisturize & Protect
Skin protection is key. We need to protect our skin while showing it off. Use a skincare product with SPF protection every morning before you put your makeup on. Look for products that both moisturize and have an antioxidant to protect against environmental damage like UV and pollution. I like A Perfect World from Origins to keep my skin looking and feeling healthy.
Leave-In Conditioners
If you have chemically treated hair, protect it from further damage. Try using a leave-in conditioner to safeguard from damage from the sun, blow dryers and flat irons. Products like It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In is my go-to conditioner for hair protection. My hair feels stronger and looks shinier. This product also controls the frizzies and prevents split ends. Several
reputable leave-in conditioners provide this level of protection such as Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair, Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil, and Ouai Leave-In Conditioner.
-2018 NER hoice N I W ers’ C R e a d Aw a r d !
“The Unusual Is Our Specialty”
The
Petal Pusher FLORIST & DECORATORS John & Joann Vacca Flowers For All Occasions
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I did some experimenting with foundations and I want to tell the world about my favorite. Dior Airflash foundation is water-resistant and up to par with professional level airbrush foundations except you get an entire bottle for about $60! Extremely reasonable considering the performance. It sounds pricy but if you go to a salon and get your makeup done professionally with airbrush foundation, the cost will run you at least this much (and likely more). This product is a game-changer. The Dior Airflash foundation will make your skin look flawless. No filter needed in photos. Your skin will photograph beautifully.
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I also discovered Bobbi Brown Illuminating Moisture Balm to wear underneath or over my Dior Airflash. The balm will give your skin a brighter and healthier appearance. It’s a bit pricy, but a little bit will go a long way and you will love the look of your skin. My favorite looks for the season are all in the Urban Decay Naked Cherry palette with perfect daytime colors and nighttime shades that will be your cherry on top. Try a variety of cherry-hued shades of shimmering pink, warm peaches, deep burgundy and a few metallic shades. A cherry eye and cheek with a nude lip is a perfect look or a matte face, simple neutral eye with a poppy red lip works any time of the day. Flecks of golden glitter and metallic foiled lips are still very hot. More is more when it comes to sparkly makeup—and the glitter trend just won’t stop sparkling. Victoria DiPietro and Bella Angel are members of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network.
April / May / June 2019
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n the theatre community, accessibility to the arts is imperative. Over the last couple years, the community has made strides in making shows accessible for those with disabilities. But for more than 30 years, Hands On, a New York-based non-profit, has been leading the way providing accessibility to arts and cultural events for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. Hands On is the only organization that offers
interpreted performances of Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, as well as arts and cultural programs around the New York City area. Beth Prevor, Executive Director of Hands On, says the goal of the organization is simple: access to the arts for deaf and hard of hearing people. “There is a variety of ways that could happen but for the most part - it’s through interpreted performances.” Interpreted theatre is more than just having an interpreter on the side signing American Sign Language (ASL). For Prevor, it has a dual importance. “I think it is definitely important for access for a deaf person but on the full scale, too, I think it’s important for a hearing audience to be exposed to something different. I always say that theater is this non-threatening enjoyable experience and everyone can experience something new.
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A WORKOUT YOU’LL NEVER REGRET!
by Marialena Rago
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
So that part to me is really important, too - hearing people are exposed to deaf people.” In recent years, Broadway has brought a lot of new and important works to the stage with a focus on the deaf community. Last year, Children of a Lesser God was revived on Broadway, starring deaf actress Lauren Ridloff. In 2015, Deaf West, a professional resident Sign Language Theatre based in Los Angeles, produced a fully deaf revival of Spring Awakening. “It’s sort of an interesting time now,” Prevor says. “I think what that generates are experiences for a non-deaf audience to be exposed to something they have never seen.” There is more to incorporating access than just adding deaf actors, which Prevor does think is fantastic. However, there is also importance in showing audiences that a deaf actor or an actor with disabilities can be in a show and the show doesn’t necessarily have to be about the person’s disability.
“There was a play at Playwrights Horizons, which is an Off-Broadway theatre, that had a deaf character in it. They also incorporated interpreters into the production so that the show was accessible. The deaf actor that was in that production then got cast in King Lear on Broadway,” Prevor says. “It’s [King Lear] not like Spring Awakening where it is a deaf production; they just cast a deaf actor. That, to me, is telling a traditional audience that it’s not that big a deal. It’s not a show about disabled people. It’s not a show where you go ‘Aww look at all the disabled people.’ It’s just a show. Those are the kind of experiences that will change people’s minds.” In Philadelphia, there are interpreters at theatre productions across the city. Prevor wants to find a way to showcase that. “I would really love to know who is doing what around the country and how they do it.” As for now, Hands On is working on making sure the deaf community is acknowledged. “It’s just really important for people to know that it is part of you. That you’re not so much doing it for this community, but with this community.” PRH gohomephilly.com
Hot Waves
RISING IN LOVE
Philly means food, music and love Rory Michelle / Yael Pachino YP Photography
Y
Staged concert reading by the Emerging Artists Theatre's New Works Series photo by Arthur Miller
by Geno Thackara ou only need to talk with Rory Michelle Sullivan for a few minutes for her infectious enthusiasm to start catching. That optimistic attitude has taken her singing around the world and led to several albums of uplifting songs. Speaking from New York City after a freezing cold day with the hassle of a roadside battery replacement, she’s still overflowing with excitement. Today the thrills come from development work on a new musical called Rising in Love, years in the making and hopefully on its way to Broadway. It was an exhilarating week workshopping her play-in-progress as part of the
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Emerging Artists Theatre’s New Work Series and she’s full of laughs in explaining how the journey is never as straightforward as it seems. Though New York is one of the prime Meccas of the theater world, plenty of work and key support will continue to come from Philadelphia - the new hometown where she finally moved in 2018 “after years and years of talking about it.” “Ever since I was 17 and visited Philly for a college tour, I’ve felt a pull towards it,” she says. “When I told my friends I was moving here, they all said, ‘Finally!’” It just took some time to let the right pieces fall into place - visiting the city on and off, checking out different neighborhoods and connecting with some inclusive local communities. The big step was to settle in Fishtown’s East Kensington neighborhood, welcomed by a few friends old and new, and helped along by Heffe Tacos on Frankford Avenue as “a final deciding factor.” Version 1.0 of Rising in Love launched through Tribe 12’s Entrepreneurial Incubator in spring 2018. The script that’s made it to the New York workshop is designated 2.2, thanks to key partners like co-writer Anna Jastrzembski. “I’ve been calling Anna my musical midwife because she’s helped get out the ideas, get the characters on the page and just helped me find what to say,” Sullivan enthuses. “We’ve done two table readings now where eight to twelve people sit in a room and give feedback - what’s this part about, or maybe that line doesn’t work - really tightening things up. We get some amazing ideas and insights. The overall process is so collaborative.” She compares the process to baking bread, which is a resonant theme in more ways than one. Philly’s nonprofit Challah for Hunger (https:// challahforhunger.org/) was intended to provide
the setting for Rising at one point, which would have meant opportunities for mutual publicity and support. That particular detail changed as the show evolved, but connecting and helping others will remain themes onstage and off. “I’ve always said that I want my work to help people and give them the means to grow,” she humbly declares, which also turns out to be a defining theme of the musical. It’s partly a love story, but more importantly about coming of age - “becoming an emotional adult and what that means,” as Sullivan puts it. It’s not just about the characters’ relationship, but how they develop into the people they need to be. A recording of some of the show’s tunes with full Broadway-level orchestration came in March, with an official promo trailer for the project slated for April. The next plan is to move up to a regional run here in Philadelphia and for all different parts of the picture to keep coming together and growing. “Growth has always been a big theme word for me,” she says. “The goal is to have a good story and put on a good show. But because theater is so cathartic, I do hope people can see examples of what healthy and constructive relationships can be - and to see the characters mess up a lot before they get there.” And in the meantime? “Over April break, once we release that trailer, I’ll be able to paint my apartment,” she laughs. “I took a whole week off, which I haven’t done in maybe two or three years. I’ve just been working on this show and the rest of my musical life. It’s a huge deal that I’m taking a whole week over Passover. So that’s when I’ll paint the apartment and maybe get a couch.” That’s life for you: some minor details may take longer than others but hopefully it’s always a rewarding work in progress. Follow the journey at https://risinginlovethemusical.com. PRH
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PRHMUSIC&ART
JULIA LEVITINA Courage to go the distance
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by Bryan Culver ome folks make art because they can, others because they must,” Julia Levitina instructs me as I try to fully grasp the colossus that is her life trajectory. It’s a bitter cold February evening outside and I’m cooped up listening intently to this remarkable artist speak about her life, career and, most crucially, her musical pursuits. Julia Levitina is a fire-blasting, bronze-casting, jet-setting, finger-picking singer-songwriter. Let’s just
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say she possesses many talents. First off, there’s her out-of-theordinary line of work: Levitina is a sculptor by trade, an expert in bronze casting. It’s a very physical, very unique and very badass profession. Her work has garnered numerous awards with sculptures exhibited in important private and public collections bi-continentally. Levitina has a studio in Philadelphia but spends much of her time in France. Secondly, there’s her extraordinary upbringing, which she vividly reconstructs over the phone, referring to it as a “classic immigrant
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story.” She was born in Odessa, Ukraine, then part of the nowdissolved Soviet Union. Economic collapse impending, her family decided it was time to jump ship. At age 14, Levitina landed in Brooklyn. Sculptor full time, Levitina is also intently focused on growing as a musician. She recalls buying her first CD by the Indigo Girls, a luxury during her teenage years. Ever since, she has been hooked on acoustic folk Americana music. She eventually felt compelled to try her hand at folk guitar for herself. So, a few birthdays ago, inspired by Josh Ritter’s performance at World Café Live, she purchased an old Fender
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
dreadnought second hand, calling it a “now or never kind of thing.” Levitina’s 2017 debut EP, Take Your Time Loving Me, is comprised of five tracks and showcases her unique sound that blends Russian and French acoustic bards she was influenced by in her youth with her more current penchant for Americana folk-rock. The album was recorded at Cambridge Sound Studio in South Philly and co-produced with acclaimed Philadelphia singer-songwriter John Faye (IKE, The Caulfields). This autumn, Julia released a single, “Apricot Sky,” also co-produced with Faye and recorded/engineered by internationally renowned local favorite, Cliff Hillis. Along with the tune came a music video, introduced by an online music blog, Americana Highways,where it can be viewed in addition to living on Julia’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. Without knowing a wink about bronze casting or the laborious
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process of blasting a clay bust into a finished statue, there is a pronounced physical construction to her songs. “To The Dogs” and “Rubicon” have a fluidity, a physical motion that’s calming yet unrestrained, elegantly buzzing in your ears as you drive down the freeway or stroll down the neighborhood sidewalk. “Apricot Sky” is stylistically in line with the initial batch of recorded songs but possesses even more sonic depth. It’s a campfire folk-rock tune with a dreamy kick, inspired by the Wright Brothers, that will ultimately become a part of Levitina’s first full-length record, preliminarily titled Going to the Moon in Charles Lindbergh’s Biplane. It will feature a collection of songs, where each tune speaks to air and space in one way or another, while remaining thematically in keeping with what Julia has been singing about all along: having courage to go the distance. In addition to her two World Café Live fullband releases, Levitina has played many iconic Philadelphia music venues like the Tin Angel, the Grape Room and the Legendary Dobbs, just to name a few. She maintains a consistent performance schedule, while also regularly hitting the local open mic circuit. Upcoming shows include the Living Room at 35 East on May 9th in Ardmore, Sexton Sideshow Gloria Dei Memorial Day picnic on May 27th and Random Tea Room and Curiosities Shop on June 7th in Philadelphia. For Levitina, success has always hinged on her consistent work ethic. She received a full-way scholarship to Georgetown University, studied in Paris, eventually landing in Philadelphia and becoming acquainted with the local bronze casting - and now music making - scenes. “My way of living is to work hard at what I love, to continue to believe against all odds that I can make it – when you put your heart into what you know you were born to do, the universe kind of cooperates.” Julia Levitina’s music is available on any and all of your favorite digital music platforms: iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, BandCamp, and others. Also check out facebook.com/julialevitinamusic for more music happenings or follow her on Instagram at @juliasingstotheeverything. PRH
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PRHMUSIC&ART The Legendary Dixie Hummingbirds © 2005 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program/Cliff Eubanks / 859 N. 15th Street. Photo by Jack Ramsdale
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pioneering force behind the evolution of the modern gospel quartet sound for more than 90 years, The Dixie Hummingbirds are among the longest-lived and most successful groups of their era. This renowned American gospel vocal group with imaginative arrangements, progressive harmonies and all-around versatility originally formed in 1928 in Greenville, South Carolina. In the 1930s, their jubilee-styled act incorporated a tradition of enthusiastic audience response and began to absorb much of the energy and freedom of Gospel. In 1938, they were joined by 13-year-old baritone phenomena, Ira Tucker, and bass singer extraordinaire Willie Bobo, a former member of the Heavenly Gospel Singers. The group made their recording debut on Decca Records in 1939. Singles included “Soon Will Be Done with the Troubles of This World,” “Little Wooden Church” and “Joshua Journeyed to Jericho.” In 1942, the group relocated to Philadelphia, where founding member James B. Davis bought a house at 23rd and Girard Avenue and used it as a rehearsal space. Ira Tucker, in particular, wowed audiences with his flamboyant theatrics, rejecting the long tradition of “flat-footed” singers rooted in place on stage in favor of running up the aisles and rocking prayerfully on his knees. By 1944, Tucker’s manic intensity of regularly jumping off stages with frenetic showmanship possibly was a trailblazing influence for soul music performances into the 1950-60s era of Rock and Roll. At the same time, the Hummingbirds’ harmonies continued to grow more sophisticated. The
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addition of Paul Owens completed the quartet’s development and together, he and Tucker honed a style they dubbed “trickeration,” a kind of notebending distinguished by sensual lyrical finesse and staggering vocal intricacy. Their virtuosity did not go unnoticed by audiences and other musical artists throughout the mid-’40s, an acknowledged golden age of acapella quartet singing. The group regularly played to packed houses throughout the south and performed internationally. They influenced popular musicians, including the late James Brown, Stevie Wonder and the Temptations. Their version of Paul Simon’s “Loves Me Like a Rock” won the group a Grammy Award in 1974. In 2017, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia commemorated the rich heritage of the Dixie Hummingbirds with a historical marker dedicated at James B. Davis’ former house at 23rd and Girard Avenue. As one of the most enduring and influential gospel groups of all time, they reached another significant milestone in its yearlong “90th Anniversary Celebration: The Magnificent Flight of the Dixie Hummingbirds” with the hometown rededication in December 2018 of the Legendary Dixie Hummingbirds mural by Mural Arts Philadelphia facing north at 15th & Poplar along Dixie Hummingbirds Way, just a block from the Metropolitan Opera House. The Gospel African-American Heritage of struggle and success are enduring tributes reflected in the historical marker and Mural in honor of the Dixie Hummingbirds. (The current lineup of the Dixie Hummingbirds: Ira Tucker Jr., Lyndon Baines Jones, Torrey Nettles, Carlton Lewis, Troy Smith and Roy Smith.) PRH
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on, you’ve got to sing / sing from your soul,” leads the buildup to this classic uplifting Soul Survivors’ chorus and it turns out to be a fairly definitive moment. That simple idea was (and is) a philosophy much more than a hooky line for this group. It’s no coincidence that they called themselves The Dedications when first starting out in New York City. Founder Kenny Jeremiah found a common link with Richie and Charlie Ingui because they wanted to make more than music. They wanted to touch the world with their sound. Once the gang landed in Philadelphia at Crimson Records – soon to move over to the legendary Philadelphia International – they adopted The Soul Survivors as a catchier name more suited to their niche. It was a phrase evocative enough that the Rolling Stones coincidentally used it as a title, as well. This had no connection with other same-named songs by Rita Ora or Angels & Airwaves and definitely nothing to do with the awful gangsta-hop dud from Young Jeezy. This R&B crew predated them all and at least a few of their classics should outlast any piece of plastic pop. The phenomenon known as blue-eyed soul was just burgeoning when they chose Philly as a home base and the Survivors’ debut provided a central staple of the genre with “Expressway to Your Heart.” Such a big early success (a #4 hit in the fall of ‘67) turned out to be a mixed blessing: the follow up “Explosion in Your Soul” didn’t quite crack the top 30 even with its infectious exuberance, while the more overwrought “Impossible Mission” sank even lower. If the Survivors didn’t hit so big again, it wasn’t for lack of talent or commitment. They kept spin-
ning straightforward anthems and singing about all aspects of real life through the follow up album Take Another Look. The group’s mixed-racial lineup gave an extra meaning to the subtly slinky minor hit “Mama Soul,” backing up its theme of looking beyond skin color. When they build up with “I asked her why her skin wasn’t the same as mine / ... she told me son, never you mind,” it may sound like just a handy rhyme - and it is - but the underlying message was an important statement for the time (not to mention every time since). Maybe the tune got a tad repetitive from reusing the same extended verse and chorus twice throughout. Maybe it could have used some cowbell. The B-side cover of Clarence Carter’s “Tell Daddy” also undoubtedly suffered because Etta James had already made it a gender-flipped hit as “Tell Mama.” The single reached the charts but stayed out of the top 100, which basically relegated it to “you may or may not have heard this somewhere” status, fairly or not. Still, it’s often not the obvious hits that are most defining. There’s no telling why these things fall through the cracks sometimes. Pick an individual Survivors song and it’s hard to hear anything all that different from the big soul/R&B hits of the day, which was probably both fortunate and unfortunate. All the key elements are there: the jangly sound of classic Motown, the voices chanting in harmony, the hooks that grab the body with touches of blues and gospel. Maybe there just isn’t much room out there for too many similar things at a time. Still, the band kept going a while longer before they branched into other careers and those paths still haven’t kept them from performing together to this day. After all, you can never quite discount the staying power of an artist’s heart and soul. PRH
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PRHMUSIC&ART The company of the North American tour of Cruel Intentions: The Musical. Photo by Jenny Anderson
CRUEL INTENTIONS
PRH interviews musical co-creator Jordan Ross by Brenda Hillegas
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“There’s nothing crueler than falling in love, especially when you’re 17.” – Jordan Ross
ruel Intentions was released in theatres on March 5th, 1999. Cast members Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon and Sarah Michelle Gellar (just as hot now as they were then) were stuck to my bedroom wall during my high school years as they graced the Cruel Intentions poster hanging above my bed. Twenty years later, the movie is still a reminder of my time in high school, crushes that would never amount to anything and awesome music that only the ‘90s and early 2000s could produce. And I bet Bucks County’s Jordan Ross can relate. He’s a 2010 Temple University grad and the co-creator of Cruel Intentions: The Musi-
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cal, a ‘90s celebration full of fun and nostalgia and currently on tour (the last stop will be here in Philadelphia at the Kimmel Center, May 29th to June 2nd). The show follows the same plot of the movie - based a bit on the 1782 novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses - as two step-siblings set out to destroy an innocent girl. Yes, they’re cruel; they find themselves tied up in secrets, temptation and of course, love. The stage version is a jukebox musical so you’ll hear all of your favorite artists from that decade, too - Boyz II Men, REM, *NSYNC, Britney Spears. Ross talks to PRH about why he wanted to adapt the teen drama; how the film’s writer/director Roger Kumble joined his creative team; the success of the stage version (which just turned four) and why the movie’s themes are still relevant today.
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Q: You’re from the Philly suburbs - what area specifically? What schools did you attend?
a: I was born and raised in Bucks County with family across the greater Philadelphia area. I’m a Council Rock South alum and proud Temple Owl. Q: Favorite Philly spots while growing up?
a: Is Wawa an acceptable answer? There
are some days where I miss Wawa almost as much as I miss my friends and family. I’m not kidding. In the ever popular “Geno’s vs. Pat’s” debate, I’m a firm Jim’s guy. I’d like to shake the hand of whoever made the decision to put Chickie’s & Pete’s at the airport so I could have crab fries
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
before any flight to Los Angeles. Anywhere I can get a Yuengling because it’s practically impossible to find it out here. Growing up, I fondly remember my dad taking us to the Please Touch Museum and the Franklin Institute - followed by a stop at Levis’ Hot Dogs & Sandwiches (now closed sadly) or Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef. I also spent many a summer at my grandmother’s house in Margate, NJ, which essentially becomes Philly every summer. So, for me, it’s almost impossible to talk about home and not mention early mornings on the Atlantic City Boardwalk and late nights at Ventura’s Greenhouse.
Q: What inspired you to move to Los Angeles and/ or become a writer?
1). My dad. Not sure if he knows this but his bedtime stories played a major role in guiding me towards writing. He’d use his imagination to craft moon-dwelling characters and encourage us to do the same. And I keep a copy of Stringbean’s Trip To The Shining Sea, a children’s book he bought me a long time ago, on my desk in LA as a reminder of those stories.
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2). My Twitter bio says that I’m “unapologeti-
cally living in The WB-era of television” and it’s 100% true. No need to rescue me. I’m fine right where I am. Shows like The O.C., One Tree Hill, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Jack & Bobby, helped me find my voice in the storm of adolescence and my parents’ divorce. There hasn’t been a day since that I haven’t dreamt of telling character-driven, coming-of-age stories like the ones that inspired me in the first place.
Q: Why did you decide to turn Cruel Intentions into a musical? What does the movie mean to you personally?
a: At the time, I was between jobs and the freak-
out about what I was going to do next was in full swing. Looking back, the musical was definitely born during my own personal quarter-life crisis. I was 25 with my toe in the TV door, not even close to a full foot — and that’s when I got some advice from fellow TV writer/friend Evan Bleiweiss (The Vampire Diaries, Rosewood, The Shield). He told me to do something that would set me apart from everyone else chasing the same dream because, in Hollywood, aspiring writers are everywhere. I came home from seeing The Unauthorized Musical Parody of Scream at LA’s Rockwell Table & Stage incredibly inspired, thinking: “I am going to create a jukebox musical.” Lindsey Rosin (co-creator/director) and I never set out to parody anything. To quote her: “It’s easy to make fun of something. It’s much harder to proclaim you love something.” [The musical] was, from day zero, a love letter to the movie - Roger Kumble’s brilliant script, the iconic performances, one of the best soundtracks of all time - and the ‘90s. It has been in my top five since before I even really knew what it was about. Hilarious, sexy, heartbreaking and true to its title, so very cruel. There’s nothing crueler than falling in love, especially when you’re 17. Everything about that time is its own special kind of bittersweet symphony.
Q: How did Roger Kumble come on board?
a: In 2015, Roger came out to our second performance ever with Neal Moritz (the movie’s producer) and their lawyer. I vividly remember Lindsey and I turning to each other in the sound booth and going: “Well, we had a good run.” The show was labelled “unauthorized” because we didn’t have the rights and neither of us imagined a world where Roger would go on to become the musical’s biggest champion. Roger’s become a friend, a teacher and it’s been an honor to get to know him on set and off. Q: How long did it take to see this show come to life - from the idea to create this musical up to the opening night performance? Were
there any obstacles along the way?
a: The musical officially turned four this past
February. We started with a three-night-only concept presentation, which was followed by our freshman run from April to July 2015, a five-show reunion in November 2016, a completely sold-out off-Broadway pop-up in February 2017, and, most recently, our off-Broadway run from November 2017 - April 2018. Obstacles were few and far between and mostly had to do with music rights. We only had to replace two songs for the off-Broadway run and all credit is due to the amazing Janet Rich, who fought hard to clear everything so the musical could showcase the best of the ‘90s.
Q: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Selma Blair and Reese Witherspoon saw the show. Did anyone else from the movie cast/crew come to the show? What were their thoughts?
a: They actually came to the 05/28/15 per-
formance in LA — which happens to be Roger Kumble’s birthday. That whole night still feels like someone else’s fever dream because, while we knew they were coming, it didn’t feel real until they were actually there, in the room, singing along with everyone else. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly for the movie’s 20th anniversary, Reese called the musical “fantastic” so I think it’s safe to say she loved it. I’ll never forget when she shouted out one of Annette’s lines, mid Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn,” to laughs and applause. SMG’s seen it three times. Both Ryan Phillippe (Sebastian) and Sean Patrick Thomas (Ronald) saw the show in LA too. Eric Mabius (Greg) saw it for the first time when it opened in NYC last winter. The cast really has been so supportive.
Q: Why did you decide to take the show on tour?
the ‘90s and drove the narrative forward — and because Cruel Intentions came out on the precipice of the millennium, we had a broad catalogue of hits on hits on hits to choose from. But, we never wanted a song to feel like a needle drop for the sake of audience recognition. It had to be about the story always, about the emotional arc, and thanks to Zach Spound, our music director/arranger/ nostalgia maestro, songs once reserved for karaoke, the shower or alone in your car, seamlessly merged into Roger’s tale of love, seduction and revenge.
Q: Cruel Intentions is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Why do you think the movie or certain themes in the movie are still relevant today?
a: Roger’s script alone is so sharp, funny and
heartbreaking — then you add Ryan, SMG, Reese and Selma’s performances, the killer soundtrack and you have something few movies ever truly become… and that’s iconic. Something cemented in pop culture forever. The movie’s universal themes — desire, morality (or lack thereof), love, jealousy — keep the story relevant [today].
Q: What’s your favorite part of the musical (song, scene, etc.)?
a: Placebo’s “Every You, Every Me” will always
have a special place in my heart. It’s the first song in the movie, first on the soundtrack and had to be the first song in the musical. Unlike the original version, Zach’s arrangement is higher-energy, full of teen angst and introduces/re-introduces audiences to all the key players of the story.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
a: I want to shout out each and every #CruelIn-
a: Taking the show on the road felt like the
obvious next chapter. There’s been no shortage of excitement on social media from people across the country dying to experience it for themselves. And I think that’s a testament to the movie’s legacy. Whether you’re a diehard Cruel fan, ‘90s lover or just enjoy musical theatre — Cruel has something for everyone and so much nostalgia to spare.
Q: I know many songs on the cast album are on the original movie soundtrack but you also feature some that weren’t. Why was this particular group of songs chosen?
a: “Every You, Every Me,” “Lovefool,” “Color-
blind” and “Bittersweet Symphony” are all featured in the movie and we couldn’t (and wouldn’t) do the musical without them. Lindsey and I tried really hard to choose songs that sampled the best of
tentionsMusical cast member past and present for their dedication, passion and mind-blowing talent. We all built this show together and each production has been another chapter in what can only be described as the adventure of a lifetime. Special thanks to Eva Price (our executive producer), Carl Flanigan, Josh Altman and everyone else at Maximum for working tirelessly on behalf of the show. To Roger Kumble for allowing us to play in his sandbox and be part of his film’s legacy. To Kenneth Ferrone (our touring director) and Zach Spound (our music director), both legends in their own right. And, to my partner-in-crime/co-creator/director, Lindsey Rosin — sucker love really is heaven sent. Happy hunting, America. PRH Jordan had many more juicy details to share. We couldn’t fit our entire conversation in this issue! His full Q&A will be available on the RowHome blog (www.gohomephillyblog.com) before the musical makes its way to Philadelphia. Grab your tickets at www.cruelmusical.com.
April / May / June 2019
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PRHMUSIC&ART
ALEXIS BONAVITACOLA, PHD The layers of her life paint a beautiful portrait by John Nacchio
images courtesy of Alexis Bonavitacola headshot by Laura Eaton Photography
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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
HARRY ALESSI
Real Estate Sales “I am a South Philly girl in spirit and heart. This brings with it a moxie and attitude that always keeps me attached to my fabulous Italian roots. It makes me fearless!”
Alexis Bonavitacola is an artist, teacher, entrepreneur and passionate human being. Dedicated to leading a purposeful life, she believes in the value of sharing talents and giving back to inspire others to grow. Her career in the public arena began 23 years ago in public and private education where she spent time as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, consultant, principal, change agent and curriculum supervisor for students from elementary through University levels. Working with students at every level of education enabled her to introduce innovative programs to schools from New York City to California, laying the groundwork for her future, she says. In April 2014, she earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and embarked on the latest chapter of her journey as an artist. “I adore alcohol inks,” she says with enthusiasm. “If you are here with me, you’d love them as well as I do or you would want to learn more about how to learn to go with the flow,” she says. The acid-free ink is permanent and dries fairly quickly, she explains. It is used to produce a shiny, metallic background or finish. Since the ink is translucent, artists can use various colors to achieve layering effects. “I love layering and blending colors and mixing mediums creating magical experiences with my art.” Her abstracts clearly reflect her passion whether using alcohol inks or other techniques like encaustic wax, acrylics, watercolors or mixed media. “I never believed in my artist talent until my late 50s,” Bonavitacola shares. She says she never dreamed the years she spent in public education would one day prepare her to express herself as an artist. “In addition, all of my years in public education provided me with an extensive indepth knowledge of the learning process. Life’s unexpected challenges showed me that one can never be defined by one label or career path. I was able to build upon those experiences and synthesize these lessons into an e-course that allows students to reach personal transformation.” Social media is something Bonavitacola artfully applies with a purpose “My e-course Facebook
groups are thriving communities where artists never leave. I have students who have taken my class over four years ago who are still showing their art in my Facebook group. I’ve been on Facebook since 2012, starting out with one small wonderful group of about 50 alcohol ink artists to much bigger Facebook groups with 34,000+ alcohol ink and/or mixed media artists.” In 2015, Bonavitacola, in her trailblazing spirit, set out to teach others her alcohol ink and encaustic art techniques and created her first e-course entitled Energy. Motion. Flow: The Beauty of Alcohol Inks and Beyond. In 2018 alone, Bonavitacola has enrolled 1350 students in her e-courses. To date, she has designed and delivered 14 e-courses. Her most recent e-course, Teach Art Online, is designed to teach artists to create a comprehensive blueprint for creating their own exceptional e-course. At the age of 64, Bonavitacola is just getting started. She realized no such e-course existed to help others learn how to teach art online. She saw a need for such an e-course and went on to pioneer the first of its kind for artists. Since October 2015, she has taught more than 2000 students to learn to go with the flow in abstracts, blooms, expressive landscapes and gorgeous seas and skies. Her art work has been featured in Cathy Taylor’s book, Pigments of Your Imagination, Indie Soleil magazine (four times), a gallery exhibit in West Annapolis, MD, and a 3.5 month solo exhibition at the Morris Museum in Morristown, NJ. What’s next for Alexis? She begins work on her book, The Beauty of Alcohol Inks and Beyond: Ignite Your Creativity, Reclaim Your Passion for Self-Expression, and Grow in your Artistic Confidence. In addition, she and her accomplished New York fashion designer brother, Kenny Bonavitacola (see our Winter 2019 issue), are embarking on a Made in Philadelphia fashion label collection that will incorporate her artwork on his fashion designs. She was also a guest on the “Love Art Money” podcast in March and was interviewed for the show, Lit From Within, about women who are making a difference. PRH
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PRHMUSIC&ART
FRAMING PHILLY Thomas DiGilio Photography by Jane Roser
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“I learned everything I know by making mistakes. You have to be open to trying new things and not get frustrated if it doesn’t work out. Just go back and try again.” Self-taught photographer and explorer Thomas DiGilio grew up in Essington but spent most of his childhood in Philadelphia, exploring the bustling city and lighting the fire for what would later become an artistic passion. “We were always in the city because there wasn’t much to do in Essington,” DiGilio says. “What really drew my eye was the sheer number of people and how chaotic and fast-moving it is; the incredible architecture, too. They don’t make buildings like that anymore.” DiGilio spent most of his teenage years on South Street and FDR Park skateboarding and hanging out with friends. These carefree moments were especially important to DiGilio who would spend weeks at a time in the hospital, having been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth. He is under the care of Dr. Daniel Dorgan, Associate Program Director of the Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program, at HUP. “[Living with] cystic fibrosis is a constant fight,” DiGilio says. “It affects me every day. Some days are better than others, but on those
bad days, it’s a constant fight...nothing to do but keep on pushing. I do what I can to stay healthy and try to stay positive - don’t let it affect you mentally and bring you down.” Soon, photography became more than something to do to fill the time. “One of my friends took me to explore this abandoned school and I left there with about 100 pictures on my iPhone 5 which I posted on Instagram. The reaction I got was mainly curiosity but also concern for my safety. Most people don’t get the opportunity to see these places - they’re not often documented and pretty soon they’ve disappeared, so when you’re able to show someone what’s inside, it’s like a whole new world to explore.” Finding more of these decaying and forsaken sites became an obsessive quest for DiGilio and led him to one of his most prolific subjects - Lynnewood Hall. Located in Elkins Park, Lynnewood Hall was built more than 120 years ago by wealthy industrialist Peter A.B. Widener whose son and grandson tragically perished on the Titanic in 1912. The estate has several abandoned structures littered on the grounds, which DiGilio captured in a series of hauntingly somber photographs. “Inside some of these houses, you can see photos of people
still hanging on the walls. At some point, these will all be demolished and I wanted to capture a sort of pictorial history before they’re gone forever.” Besides preserving the legacies of a bygone era, DiGilio is also fascinated by the breathtaking views of Philadelphia and New York City - their changing seasons, the flashing lights, the captivating views of the skyline that fill you with awe, as well as a slight dread from the sheer height. DiGilio owns a drone but he captures the photos overlooking the city from nearby buildings using a DSLR Nikon camera. For instance, standing on the roof of a nearby construction site to photograph City Hall from above. But getting vertigoinducing views is not as big a challenge as lighting. “That’s a big one,” DiGilio says. “You have to know what time the sun rises and sets, then get to the location at exactly the right time. We’ll go out for several days just to put together one shoot.” On his wish list for places he’d like to photograph one day, DiGilio includes the pyramids of Egypt and the Canadian landscape. But for now, his love of Philadelphia keeps him close to home. “You’re close to everything. You’re near the mountains and the beach here, plus I just love how fast-paced the city is. I find it incredibly comforting.” PRH
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PRHMUSIC&ART
THE DAVINCI ART ALLIANCE South Philly: Pretty and Gritty
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by Larry Gallone photos by gallery artist Gary Grissom hat makes South Philly interesting and well, different? The DaVinci Art Alliance is looking to answer that question through its latest exhibit South Philly: Pretty and Gritty - a follow up to last year’s very successful Rocky (re)Runs which explored the neighborhoods Rocky ran through using various art mediums. The Rocky
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(re)Runs exhibit attracted a lot of attention including special guest Sylvester Stallone, who visited the exhibit while here filming Creed II. According to Jarrod Markman, Executive Director of the DaVinci Art Alliance, South Philly: Pretty and Gritty looks to celebrate the community. One of the exhibit goals is to “bring people together in our community and show the aspects of the neighborhood in artwork.” The Open Call for entries (meaning any artist in the city, not just invited artists) for the exhibit asked for “artwork of all mediums celebrating the flavors, colors and
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communities that make South Philly so unique and vibrant.” Paintings. Photos. Sculpture. Video. Or any other creative ideas were welcomed to submit for this exhibit, which is scheduled to run from May 8 through May 30 at the DaVinci Art Alliance, 704 Catharine Street. John James Pron, Exhibition Committee Co-Chair says, “The making of art nurtures one’s own life, but in addition, the experiencing of art enriches everyone else in the community. And so, shows like this can give meaning and pleasure to everyone and we want as many people as possible to enjoy it.” Pron adds that one of the reasons South Philly was selected as the focus
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for the new exhibit is to celebrate the roots of the DaVinci Art Alliance, which dates back to the 1930s when Italian immigrants with a love of visual arts started it. The building that houses the Alliance (a rowhome which is itself a tribute to the South Philly origin of the organization) was obtained in 1959 to provide the community space, a studio and gallery spaces for its members. Its mission now is the same as when it was founded: to “provide artists with a community that fosters artistic expression and growth through our exhibitions and programs.” According to Markman, DaVinci hosted more than 40 shows last year and has seen a more than 90 percent membership growth in recent years. “We celebrate the physical community – the artwork is like a love letter to the community,” he says. The South Philly: Pretty and Gritty Juror is Jason Chen who is a cofounder of the Paradigm Gallery + Studio and Juggling Wolf (a film and
animation production studio). He will be responsible for selecting the artworks and developing the narrative for the exhibit. Steve Kwasnik, a producer at WHYY, South Philly resident and boxing enthusiast who was deeply involved in Rocky (re)Runs stressed that the exhibit pushed the boundaries for art and he hopes that the same will be for this exhibit. South Philly: Pretty and Gritty is sponsored by DeFino Law Associates, which also sponsored Rocky (re)Runs, and supporting exhibit sponsors The Expressive Hand and Christina Briglia, Realtor with Coldwell Banker Preferred (PhillyHomeConnection.com). Philadelphia City Councilman Mark Squilla will be on hand to give out the prizes and awards at the opening reception on May 8th. Markman sums up South Philly: Pretty and Gritty adding, “This art honors the glamour, grime and gregariousness of South Philadelphia.” For more information, visit www.davinciartalliance.org. PRH gohomephilly.com
David H Conroy Judicial Candidate for Municipal Court Vote on May 21, 2019
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Spotlight
KITTEN HAYWARD
PRH
SPORTS
LOVE FOR THE GLOVES
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photo by Darryl Cobb Jr by Stephen Pagano rowing up in North Philadelphia near Broad and Diamond Streets, Stanley “Kitten” Hayward was more of a street fighter than a boxer. However, his tough and rigid upbringing helped him transform that rage into the ring. He trained at Champ Gym at 33rd and Dauphin while being managed by George Katz. Hayward recalls, “Georgie’s girlfriend gave me my nickname. She said if his name was Katz, then mine should be Kitten. And it just stuck!” Kitten also credits his friend Gil Turner for teach-
S P O RT S
ing him the ropes back in the day. “I learned a lot about boxing from him. Gil and I came up together,” he remembers. On June 10th, 1959, Hayward made his professional debut as a middleweight fighter against Tommy Holmes, which he won. On May 4th, 1960, in his first televised fight, he fought Ike White at Madison Square Garden in New York City. “People couldn’t believe that I was on TV so soon after just seven fights,” Kitten says. He won this fight and the rematch shortly after. In fact, he was victorious in his first 9 bouts until losing to Bruce Gibson on June 9th, 1960. He defeated Gibson just a few months later in the rematch and railed off seven more wins out of the next eight fights, with one ending in a draw. In 1963, Kitten returned to Madison Square Garden to fight against Jose Stable but he lost in 10 hard rounds. After the defeat, he won his next six fights including beating Curtis Cokes in 1964 at the Blue Horizon, and Bennie Briscoe at the Philadelphia Arena
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in 1965. At this point, Hayward was 22-2-1, with a lot of boxing left in him. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Kitten fought 23 more times. He did go overseas for a few fights before coming back to the states. He fought Bennie Briscoe once again in 1975 at The Spectrum, but lost. His last fight was in 1979 against Larry Davis, which resulted in a loss. His professional record was 32-12-4 with 18 KOs. Over the years, Kitten Hayward made many celebrity friends including Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Diana Ross and Julius “Dr J” Erving. Kitten Hayward has been elected to the PA Boxing and PA Sports Halls of Fame. On April 14th, at the age of 80, Stanley “Kitten” Hayward was honored with the Bennie Briscoe Award. “It’s a pleasure to accept this award. As fighters, we always set out to make history and leave a legacy behind,” Kitten says. John DiSanto, who runs the Briscoe Awards and PhillyBoxingHistory.com, says, “Kitten Hayward was one of the most exciting boxers to ever come out of Philly. His career was loaded with
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memorable fights against some of the greatest fighters of his era. If he was fighting today, he’d be a multi-millionaire with a dozen title belts, but times were different back then. When I began putting together my website, he was the first former fighter that I looked up and just had to meet. To me, he was such an important part of Philadelphia’s history. Ever since that first meeting, we’ve been friends, and I consider it an honor to have spent time with him. “As his 80th birthday neared, it seemed the perfect time to do something special at the Briscoe Awards. Kitten Hayward is a great guy and an important chapter in our local history book. So...we honored him and showed him how much we appreciate all that he accomplished.” After retiring from boxing, Kitten worked for the Philadelphia courts for 31 years. Nowadays, Kitten enjoys his time at The Turf Club in South Philly, which is owned by Bob Green. “Bob has a great establishment and I enjoy watching the horses here. I laugh every time I see a horse with the name Kitten,” he says. Everyone at the track knows Kitten with his larger-than-life personality and he loves to share his boxing stories. He still follows boxing and the up and coming fighters in Philadelphia, including Christian Carto. Kitten says, “He’s a great, young fighter and he’ll figure it out as time goes on. He’s got what it takes to be the next great Philly boxer.” PRH gohomephilly.com
KITTTEN HAYWARD
Christian Carto win Briscoe Awards Every year, Philly Boxing History Inc. presents the Briscoe Awards to honor and celebrate the biggest and best achievements of the Philly fight scene. The annual event is part of an effort to remember local boxing history and share the dedication, courage and culture of that rich history. Recipients of the
12th annual Briscoe Award
2018 Philly Fighter of the Year Tevin Farmer
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2018 Knockout of the Year Danny Garcia
2018 Upset of the Year Samuel Teah
2018 Philly Photo of the Year Kenny Ludwig
2019 Honorary Briscoe Medal J. Russell Peltz (50 Years as a Boxing Promoter)
2019 Honorary Briscoe Medal Stanley “Kitten” Hayward (Lifetime Achievement)
2019 Everett Brothers Award Amateur boxer Quaheem Davis Benny Briscoe fought professionally from 1962 to 1982 and was considered one of the hardest punching, toughest, most accomplished and most popular of Philly ring attractions. He compiled a record of 66 wins, 24 losses, 5 draws, with 53 knockouts and 1 no contest. He fought for the middleweight championship three times and although he never took the crown, he is considered one of the best to never win a world title.
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PRHGREENSP CE
Soak It Up Adoption
Sign up for our City’s Green City, Clean Waters program
by SANTINA PESCATORE photo courtesy of PHILADELPHIA WATER DEPARTMENT
ince its creation in 2010, the Soak It S Up Adoption program has benefited the Philadelphia Water Department’s Green City, Clean Waters plan by giving local organizations small grants to boost maintenance efforts at green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) sites. The Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) describes green stormwater infrastructure tools as including plantfilled bumpouts, tree trenches, stormwater planters, pervious pavement, green roofs, rain barrels, rain gardens and flow-through planters. “Soak It Up Adoption is an important part of our efforts to keep polluted stormwater out of our combined sewers, which ultimately protects local streams and rivers,” says Dan Schupsky, an Outreach Specialist with PWD who helps manage the program. Soak It Up also allows “site care heroes” to be hired to care for the site. This gives a community the opportunity to become involved in caring for their neighborhood and also serves to teach new skills to the site care hero. The grant awarded allows the organization to afford supplies, labor and host informative events to teach their neigh-
borhood about green stormwater tools. In 2018 alone, Soak It Up participants removed more than 47 tons of trash and debris from sites across the city, while also engaging more than 5,000 residents. “The Water Department benefits greatly due to the huge amounts of trash organizations pull from the GSI, as well as from the capacity building that being involved in the Soak It Up Adoption program brings us,” says Schupsky. “PWD gains valuable local champions and the community gets money to care for GSI and educate residents on how innovative these systems are.” If you are a member of your local civic group or another community organization and interested in participating in Soak It Up Adoption, please check the FAQ page to make sure you are eligible. If you are eligible, please reach out to Daniel.Schupsky@phila.gov for guidance on completing your application. Once you complete these steps, your organization can then identify and hire a site care hero to take care of nearby green stormwater infrastructure. For more information, please visit: www.phillywatersheds.org/adoption
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PRHWRITERSBLOCK
The
Grand
Reprieve by Debbie Russino
2531-35 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia PA 19148
O W R I T E R S B LO C K
ver the years, we all have experienced the fact that life can be very challenging. That is why it is necessary to focus on the reprieves – our brief but grand escapes from reality. We have to cherish these in between moments when everything is going well so we can breathe again and take a break from the everyday stresses of life. We must appreciate the peace of mind and happiness we are able to enjoy during our reprieves and make the most of them because we never know when the other shoe is going to fall. Until then, we need to go back to our blissfully drama-free existence for as long as time will allow because life will continue to be a rollercoaster ride of uncertainty. When faced with troubled times, it is very easy to become an extension of what you are going through and in the process, you may feel lost and out of control. Holding on to a positive attitude is so important for our emotional survival because if we allow the struggles of life to anchor us down, we will surely drown in its negativity. There is a saying that I love and believe to be true. “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” Life doesn’t always play fair. Sometimes, we are forced to fight dirty when terrible things come upon us. I’ve had my share. But we should always be eternally grateful for the reprieves. I am quite certain these were the moments that saved me and they may be able to save us all if we can find the courage to let them. PRH
April / May / June 2019
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ome people consider strict parents as dominating. I believe that children raised by parents who demand the best out of their children did not get the proper guidance along their way to adulthood. These types of parents don’t want their children to experience failure. Michael Jackson’s father Joe Jackson didn’t want his children to be complacent about the seriousness of life. Hence, Michael Jackson never got a chance to experience a true childhood. Michael Jackson was one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived but he lost a very important part of his childhood. Michael thought he could buy back the precious time he lost during childhood. This is the very reason he created Neverland. Similar to Peter Pan never wanting to grow up and even Walt Disney in his creation of Disney Land, Michael set out to create the childhood experience. Never having a childhood can make a person who never had the experience yearn to be a child. Most adults can remember their past as a child. Michael, however, could not. There was no childhood to remember. It is my belief that Michael Jackson was not a pedophile. However, he was in love with the most valuable natural resource on earth known as the Human Race. Michael’s appreciation for all people was felt around the world. His memory still goes on even after his death and it enlightens people of every ethnicity and culture around the world. Stevie Wonder once wrote a song entitled “With a Child’s Heart.” Michael Jackson always had a child’s heart but in his father’s business, there was no time to be a child. His only job was to become the greatest entertainer of
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by Robert L. Woodard The Wynnefield Barber all time, an accomplishment he achieved. At Woodard’s Barbershop, I got the chance to cut Michael Jackson’s hair. As he sat in my chair, I shared with him that I also had a very strict father coming up. He had 10 children and didn’t have time to tell you the same thing twice. So, when Dad said something, you had better listen. That conversation opened up a variety of other topics as Michael talked about his Dad. I even shared with Michael that after I finished all my chores, I would always look for time to experience the freedom of being a kid myself. Michael Jackson said he felt the same way. But most of his time was directed to rehearsals with his father and brothers. I truly understand, even now as an elder, how important it is to find time during the day to relax with no need to worry, no need to fear and have the mind of a child. Being raised with strict discipline could cause anyone to become an adult early on in life. Practice makes perfect. Anyone who practices to become the best in their field learns to live it, eat it and breathe it every day of their lives. It leaves no room for play. Michael Jackson was loved by people from every country and continent in the world. He was truly a good neighbor. It takes a village to raise a child and if it were not for good neighbors, where would we all be today? So, keep in mind how we as Americans view differences. Differences can divide us as real people. Seeing people as real people helps us understand that we are all a part of “One Human Race.” Most children already know this naturally. How they viewed Race as a child and now view it as an adult may have changed because of the influence of an adult who taught them to think differently. Take the “RACE Test” today for a better way at www.BarbershopTalkHFD.org. PRH gohomephilly.com
PRHWRITERSBLOCK
Thanks for the
Memories
A
by Lou Pinto
s we get older, our most important treasure is our ability to remember. Our memories of good – and even bad – shape us into who we become. I was blessed; raised by two loving parents who taught me to appreciate not so much the material things in life, but the things that you can’t see. When I was around 10 years old, my dad would take my mom, my brother and me for a ride to the country (which was actually just Philly’s suburbs) or a short drive to the airport where we would watch the planes take off and land. My mom would pack a “lunch” for us to eat along the way. Now, let me explain this “lunch.” See, I grew up in South Philly and a packed “lunch” from a South Philly Italian mom wasn’t what most people visualized. For us, it was always a feast! She would bring several fresh Italian rolls, Italian meats, fried meatballs, pasta salad, potato salad, roasted peppers and long hots. For dessert,
we’d have cannoli and Tastykakes. At some point, we would stop on the side of road where there was a clearing or a park. At Philly International, we’d park by the gate at the end of the runway. My mom spread out a blanket and we would have our “lunch.” My parents reminisced about days gone by, how they worked in the fields and about my dad’s time spent in the service. We would all talk about how great last Sunday was at Grandmom and Grandpop’s house and the funny things Aunt Jennie and cousin Jimmy did this past week. This simple day out is only one of the many memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. My mom and dad taught me a valuable lesson. “Louis, live your life the way you would like to be remembered. Always do the right thing even if it’s not what everyone else is doing. Even if it’s the hardest thing to do. Appreciate the little things that money can’t buy and always, always use your heart more than your head.” PRH
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by DAVID W. CAVA
PRH WRITERS BLOCK
Truthbusters
St. Anthony of
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W
hen I was a kid, I used to believe in things that I don’t anymore. As my children grow older, I can tell that they, too, feel this way about certain things. For example, when my son was small, he once told me that he knew Santa Claus was real but there was no way a reindeer’s nose could shine bright red. Sound reasoning from a 10-year-old and at the time, I was in full agreement with him. Lately, I feel as if I’m in conflict with things that I once believed to be true. Imagine being told that Rudolph’s glowing nose did in fact guide Santa’s sleigh on that stormy night. Taking my son’s sound logic into consideration and standing up to that misguided rhetoric in today’s atmosphere, I might be subjecting myself to defamatory name-calling and vicious personal attacks. Not unlike the way Peter, Ray, Winston and Egon were ridiculed for trying to warn the city officials of imminent dangers in Ghostbusters 2. For reasons unknown, I recently watched GB2 and in the sequel, a river of ectoplasmic slime is bubbling beneath the streets of New York causing negativity to the occupants of the city above. Winston and Ray fell into a river of slime and found themselves at each other’s throats, angry and ready to fight. Once they realized the slime was making them act viciously towards each other, they removed their slime-soaked clothing and immediately calmed down and became friends, once again. I wonder if we looked hard enough, we would find
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
an undiscovered river of slime running through our country causing much of the division. Or, maybe we should just look a little closer at the sources we trust to provide us with the facts. No one really knows why we in America spell “gray” with the letter “a” while in the United Kingdom, the word is spelled with an “e.” I tried but couldn’t find an answer. Like it or not, things change, get mashed up and very often are unclear as to why. Maybe that’s the cost of freedom and for better or for worse, our world is changing and with change comes a bit of confusion. Unfortunately, confusion of the masses could turn into chaos, and within chaos are those that prey on the confused. One way to avoid being confused is to search out different voices and opinions. Seek out the truth and try not to listen solely to those voices you agree with. Mostly, be patient with the extremists as they’re usually the ones with the loudest voices and the worst hearing. Scientists have discovered 180 species of glowing fish. These fish have the ability to absorb light and emit it as a different glowing color. This wonderful ability is known as biofluorescence. Lightning bugs produce light due to a chemical reaction called bioluminescence. Who knows, maybe Rudolph has luciferase and luciferin in his snout and when he gets excited, magnesium ions, adenosine triphosphate and oxygen combine to produce light. Here’s hoping that one day soon we all decide to remove our slime-soaked clothing and become friends, once again. PRH
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MAY 18-19, 2019 · 11am – 6pm South 9th Street, Wharton to Fitzwater, Philadelphia THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:
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Alumni & Neighbors!
President Ss. Neumann-Goretti High School
S
“The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.” —Diogenes
pring is in the air and soon the graduating class of 2019 will be prancing across the stage to receive their diploma. Students and parents alike will begin the next chapter in their lives. Many of our students will take the traditional path after high school and go on to a college or university - $4 million in scholarships already on the table! Others will pursue a trade or vocational education, and still others will begin their career. Wherever they go, whatever they decide to pursue, our graduates know that because of the Catholic education they received here at Saints Neumann-Goretti, they are well prepared to take on the world. The incoming Class of ’23 is filling up quickly so if you are considering sending
your son or daughter to us this coming September, let us know as soon as possible to guarantee your seat. Last year, we had the largest freshman class in 10 years and we expect an even larger freshman class this year! Over the next few months, expect to see some upgrades to the facility. New exterior lights are being installed as I type and there are many upgrades coming to our parking lot. We hope to erect a wroughtiron fence around the property, adding another level of security for our students and staff, along with the installation of 23 more cameras throughout the property. We take the safety and security of everyone who enters our building – for 180 days or 180 seconds – seriously. Finally, we are in the early planning stages of a
complete rebuild of our auditorium and gymnasium. Good things are happening at Neumann-Goretti! The bad news is that the demands and pressures on our schools are growing. The good news is that we are looking to our educators for solutions. The objective of our leadership team and our educators here at Neumann-Goretti is to create the finest academic institution in the city of Philadelphia, period. To be bold, and different, in our approach to education so that we can deliver upstanding citizens who are disciplined; who show integrity at all times; and who show respect for others as well as themselves, without exception. Stop by sometime and say hello! I’ll see you in a future issue. PRH
Saints Neumann Goretti Catholic High School Compassion � Courage � Commitment
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| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
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LOCAL LIBRARY
C
ouncilman Kenyatta Johnson and 15 colleagues want Mayor Jim Kenney to read up on some of the challenges facing our neighborhood libraries over the past decade and get the system’s budget back on track. In a recent letter to the Mayor, City Council members
requested the restoration of six-day service at every library branch year-round. Many libraries have four-day service, emergency closures or late openings due to staff shortages. In addition to increased transparency and accountability, the letter calls for the restoration of the Free Library’s budget to pre-recession levels and the dedication of 12 percent of its funds to materials as mandated by the state. “...libraries are much more than just book-lenders. Families use our libraries as community hubs, places to learn, to enjoy, and to share. Libraries are safe havens, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They connect residents to resources of all types, from literacy programs to cooking classes. They help people write resumes and apply for jobs and build small business. And, notably, our new 21st Century
Libraries have expanded the vision of what libraries can be, with new technology and special resources for toddlers and teens. But, no matter how good library resources are, they cannot achieve their purpose if limited hours prevent community access.” Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson, Council President Darrell Clarke, Councilmember Mark Squilla, Councilmember Jannie Blackwell, Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr., Councilmember Bobby Henon, Councilmember Maria D. Quiñones-Sánchez, Councilmember Cindy Bass, Councilmember Cherelle Parker, Councilmember Brian J. O’Neill, Councilmember At-Large Allan Domb, Councilmember At-Large Derek S. Green, Councilmember At-Large William K. Greenlee, Councilmember At-Large Helen Gym, Councilmember At-Large David Oh, Councilmember AtLarge Al Daubenberger PRH April / May / June 2019
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BUSINESS NETWORK DIRECTORY
Shop Local / Support Local Automotive Services
Gym / Fitness
Legal Services
Professional Automotive Service 2023 S. Percy St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.551.7559
2017 S. Juniper St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.778.3259 www.crossfitphl.com
1500 Market St. Suite 4100 Philadelphia, PA 19102 215.563.6100 PerrydeMarcoJr@gmail.com
Accutune
_____________________________ Twins Auto Body & Detail Centers 2525 S. 72nd St. Philadelphia, PA 19142 215.365.8212 7931 Oxford Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19111 215.745.8428 www.twinsautobodyinc.com
_____________________________
Construction P. Agnes
Construction managers and builders since 1918
2101 Penrose Avenue Philadelphia, PA 215.755.6900 contact@pagnes.com www.pagnes.com
_____________________________ PeterBuilt Construction LLC From planning to completion. All your contracting needs begin here.
Licensed & Insured 215.399.7732
_____________________________
Fashion
Goldstein's Clothing Men’s and boys’ clothing
114 years (1902-2016) 2537 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.468.0564 Goldsteinsclothing.com
_____________________________ Lobo Mau
1901 South 9th Street, Suite 501 Philadelphia, PA 19148 610.764.9035 info@lobomau.com www.lobomau.com
_____________________________ Strands 25 Hair Salon 2504 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.923.5849
_____________________________
Financial Services United Savings Bank
1510 Packer Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.467.4300 www.unitedsavingsbank.com
_____________________________ Univest Bank & Trust Co.
Financial Solutions for Your Business 1536 S Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215.462.2265 www.univest.net
_____________________________
Florists & Decorators The Petal Pusher
2515 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.463.5485
Specializing in weddings, funerals & corporate events
www.petalpusherflowers.net
PHL Athletics
_____________________________
Home Improvement Novello Contracting 267.688.4879
_____________________________ Ritner Hardware
1641 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.4927
_____________________________ Rita’s Unique Painting Inc. Rita Trombetta 856.986.0252 infinity4367@yahoo.com
_____________________________
Home Services
Clean Green Lawn and Landscapes Affordable, reliable landscaping 856.513.5758 cleangreenlandscapes@gmail.com @cleangreenlawnandlandscapes on Facebook & Instagram
_____________________________ CPR Restoration
Restoration & cleaning service Fire/Smoke/Water/Mold 215.704.4958 www.cprrestoration.com
_____________________________ FBI Pest Control
We rid your pests so you can rest
info@fbipestcontrol.com Frank Fioravanti, route supervisor 2909 S Franklin St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.768.1804 www.termitecontrolphiladelphia.com
_____________________________ Filippone Electric & Contracting 856.952.8197 24-hour emergency service 215.783.3844
Free Estimates. We will beat any written estimate. Licensed & Insured. 5-year warranty on all work.
AlFilipponeElectric@yahoo.com
_____________________________
Philip's Moving & Removal Services No job too big or small. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. 215.500.3903 www.PhilipsMovingandRemoval.com
_____________________________
Insurance Services
Troast-Singley Insurance Agency, LLC Kim Troast-Singley 2700 S. 18th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.339.0333
_____________________________
Jewelers
Olivieri Jewelers
2523 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.336.1130 www.dolivierijewelers.com
_____________________________ Realm Fine + Fashion Jewelry Designer Jewelry & Events 215.852.0798 empress@explorerealm.com www.explorerealm.com
Perry deMarco, Jr. Esq.
_____________________________
Medical
Dr. Denise D’Adamo DC
2432 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.2999 www.Drdenisetdadamo.com
_____________________________ Pennsport Physical Therapy 2101 S. Columbus Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.467.4431 www.pennsportpt.com
_____________________________
Music Lessons
Joe Cuglietta Guitar Lessons Washington Township, NJ
Specializing in blues, jazz, rock & roll Beginners to advance
609.504.8258
_____________________________
Professional Organizations
South Philadelphia Business Assn.
Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia
Join today! Russell Shoemaker Director of New Membership 267.597.7154 spba1897@gmail.com www.southphiladelphiaba.org
_____________________________
Real Estate
Fetterman Design Group, LLC. 211 East Palmer Ave Collingswood, NJ 08108 856.264.6816 www.fettermandesigngroup.com
_____________________________ Leonardo Realty
2136 S. 16th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.7944 Ciampittiventure@aol.com
_____________________________
Restaurants Caffe Chicco
Voted Best of Philly 2017 / Roast Beef Sandwich
2532 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.3100
_____________________________ Francoluigi
1549 S. 13th St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.755.8900 www.francoluigis.com
_____________________________ L’Oceano Ristorante
833 Haddon Ave. Collingswood, NJ 08108 856.833.9888 www.loceanoristorante.com
_____________________________ Stogie Joe's Tavern
1801 E. Passyunk Ave Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-463-3030 stogiejoestavern@hotmail.com www.stogiejoestavern.net
Join the PRH Business Network!
Call Carol at 215.462.9777 or info@gohomephilly.com
Tollman Joe's
South Philly Sports Bar Great food, Live music & even greater memories
26 E. Oregon Ave Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.644.8388 www.tollmanjoes.com
_____________________________
Security Services
Allied Universal Security Services Ron Rabena 1760 Market Street, 14th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19103 1.866.825.5433 ron.rabena@aus.com www.allieduniversal.com
SPI Security Services Inc.
2440 Federal St. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215.338.0800 www.spissecurityservices.com
_____________________________
Senior Services
Senior Companionship & Home Helper Carmen DeSanto 610.908.4811
Meal preparation, grocery shopping, light housekeeping. 30+ years of experience. References available.
_____________________________
Spa Services Bella Angel
158 N. 3rd St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 856.227.7774 www.bella-angel.com
_____________________________ Hot Hands Studio & Spa 2545 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.467.9666 www.hothandsphilly.com
_____________________________ Philly's Nail Spa
Wellness and Beauty Spa Refer three customers and get $20 off the service of your choice! 2502 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.271.9831
_____________________________
Specialty Foods & Catering The Beer Peddlers
1942 S, Christopher Columbus Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.755.2337 www.facebook.com/beerpeddlers
_____________________________ Big Nick’s Cold Cuts & Italian Specialties 1311 W. Moyamensing Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148
(Between 13th & Broad on Moyamensing)
215.952.2500
_____________________________ Cannuli’s Sausage
1640 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.7997
_____________________________ Dad’s Stuffing
1615 W. Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.3237 www.dadstuffings.com
Giovanni’s Italian Catering
Located in the heart of South Philadelphia
267.439.0779 giovanniitaliancatering@gmail.com www.giovannisitaliancatering.com
_____________________________ Mike's Hot Dog Cart 24th & Passyunk
_____________________________ Palm Tree Gourmet
Special gourmet food, Boar's Head deli Delivery and party trays available
1940 Pine St. Philadelphia PA 19103 901 South 2nd St. Philadelphia PA 19147 717 North 2nd St. Philadelphia PA 19123 215.334.2400
_____________________________ Swan Caterers
Now serving at 2 locations 2015 S. Water St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.389.8888 1500-02-04 Shunk St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.2045 www.swanwaterfallcaterers.com
_____________________________
Tailoring / Custom Clothing Alana Ferr Atelier
Clothing/Accessories/Custom Clothing/Alterations
2403 S. Broad St. 215.336.6166 www.facebook.com/Alanaferr www.alanaferr.com
Travel Services At Escapes
Your boutique travel company Gina Casella / Founder & President 917.514.5566 info@atescapes.com www.atescapes.com facebook.com/AdrianaTrigianiTours
_____________________________ Travel with Pam Draper
Full Service Agent 856.956.3532 TravelWithPamDraper@gmail.com www.TravelWithPamDraper.com
Lost in the
Acme P RHPRESSED by DORETTE ROTA JACKSON
T
he Acme. It’s a haven from our storms. It’s our go-to spot for some mindless reflection. It’s there … Just in case we need some pickies for company. Just in case we run out of butter. Or Breyers. Just in case we’re in the mood for a little something salty sweet late at night. It’s a constant in our lives. Where the biggest decision is spinach or shoepeg. Nobody in our heads. Free to be. Roam the aisles in carefree abandon. Until they moved the bread. It used to be in the first aisle next to the produce. Stroehmann, Maier’s, Wonder. Bagels, buns and English muffins. Conveniently located in the same lane as the College Inn (you never have enough College Inn) and the breadcrumbs (plain, flavored and Panko). There are a few staples that define our neighborhood. Fresh milk. Fresher bread. Coco Krispies. Oreos. Twizzlers. Crisco Canola. And Extra Virgin Olive Oil. We buy cases of paper towels (Bounty when it’s on sale) and Scott toilet paper – white – because the plumber said so. We are easy-going shoppers who share similar lists when it comes to groceries. So when you scramble our brains by moving the bread to the Twizzler aisle, you create a storm on our island of serenity.
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For months, we watched as hundreds of our friends & neighbors wandered aimlessly through those once familiar aisles at 19th & Oregon in search of tuna and tortillas. We listened with concern as they asked time and time again, where’s the Heinz? The Entenmann’s? The Tostitos Scoops? Someone sabotaged our journey. Turned simple tasks into panic and frustration. A kind soul took pity on us. Listed all the foods in alpha order on a flyer along with their new aisle numbers. Concerned neighbors stuffed those flyers into our home mailboxes or posted them on street poles. A compassionate effort to return order to a neighborhood in chaos. Our haven from the storm must remain steadfast for all who seek comfort from the madness. So before you grab your cart, heed these helpful hints. Don’t look for bread in Aisle 1. Go directly to aisle 17 across from the dairy case. Cough & Cold? Don’t bother with the aisles. It’s up front between the pharmacy (RX) and customer service according to the handy dandy flyer that probably went viral thanks to South Philly customers. Pretzels and chips? They’re in aisle 9. Except for the Pringles. They’re with the cookies in aisle 8, which we learned the hard way. We bumped into our friend Rocky one early weekday afternoon. Dawn and I were in the middle of a heated debate in front of the Herr’s display. ‘Rocky,’ Dawn
| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | April / May / June 2019
starts. ‘What is a Pringle?’ ‘It’s a potato chip,’ he answers quickly. ‘In the red can. I love Pringles. Why?’ He looks confused as Dawn sashays down the chip aisle with her arms flailing high in the air. ‘Show me the Pringles,’ she says to Rocky, who slowly pushes his cart past the Utz and the Lay’s, stopping briefly at a display of Doritos before returning to the spot where we stood in front of the Salt & Vinegar Herr’s. ‘Not a Pringle to be found in the chip aisle,’ Dawn confirms. ‘Guess where they put the Pringles. In the cookie aisle! Why is a chip in the cookie aisle?’ ‘You’re right!’ Rocky says. ‘They moved the tuna, too! I walked up and down every aisle looking for tuna! I’m talking to myself! Is it up the canned vegetable aisle? In the Cento aisle? With pickles and condiments? I’m losing my mind!’ Customers with the same tired look on their faces started gathering in front of the Herr’s display with us. They called out for help. Searching for things they feared were lost forever – Jello, egg noodles, pickles, puree! They were so relieved knowing that others were feeling the same distress. All united by the confusion they suffered from the rearranged aisles in their local Acme. And with a little help from their friends, a sense of calm replaced the fear of the unknown. Hey Lud! The College Inn is NOT in the applesauce aisle 1 anymore. It’s with the Bouillon in aisle 3! PRH
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