Philadelphia RowHome Magazine Spring 2020 by Philadelphia RowHome Magazine

Into the Wild I Go Losing my way. Finding my Soul

APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2020 VOL 47_ISSUE 57_2020 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM $4.99 US

$5.99 CAN

Real People. Real Stories. Journeys of a Lifetime

Nancy Hinkie

Wendy Hamilton

Angel Salerno

A Taste For Tradition 700 Haddon Avenue Collingswood, NJ 08108 Call 856-854-2156 for reservations w ww . kitconcafe . com

Monday – Thursday: 4pm – 9:30pm

Friday: 4pm – 10:30pm

Saturday: 12pm – 10:00pm

Book your private parties | Home catering available

Certificate of Excellence 2014 Winner- Trip Advisor

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

Jewelers Since 1957

Promise to Remember Designs by:

Roman + Jules

www.romanandjules.com

Prima New York

www.primanewyork.com

All the top designer brands.

❦ Large selection of Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands

❦ Custom Designed & Crafted

❦ Certified Diamonds

❦ Full Line of Gifts for the Bridal Party

2523 S. Broad Street

215.336.1130 www

| OlivieriJewelers

.dolivierijewelers.com Facebeook | OlivieriJewelers

Twitter @OlivieriJeweler

VOLUME _47 ISSUE 57_ 2020 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

INSIDETHIS ISSUE 18_ LIFE Lions, Tigers & Brews, oh my! What’s new at the Philadelphia Zoo?

28_ SALUTE TO SERVICE And the winners are! Philadelphia RowHome Magazine announces Our 2020 Blue Sapphire & WishRock Award Winners

36_ REAL ESTATE Business Spotlight Jeanne Polizzi Coldwell Banker Preferred

50_ HEALTH Loving someone with Substance Use Disorder by Theresa Collins BA CADC Facility Director/Primary Therapist directions Outpatient Centers

53_ REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. Believe in the power of the human spirit photos by Andrew Andreozzi

APRIL

| MAY | JUNE 2020

75 BRIDES GUIDE

60_ THE MENU Rivers Casino Philadelphia opens new restaurant Jack’s Bar & Grill serves up daily specials & late-night bites

MUSIC

75_ BRIDES GUIDE Glow Lab A physical, mental & spiritual makeover by Dominique Verrecchio

81_ MUSIC & ART John Madara The local legend we met “At the Hop” by John Nacchio

18 LIFE

84_ SPORTS Philadelphia Phantomz Winning Games & Empowering Women by Anthony Panvini

illy h P

60 MENU

REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. 2

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

SUSAN BEARD DESIGN

But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.Â Martin Luther King, Jr.

VOLUME _47 ISSUE 57_ 2020 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

REGULARS 6_ FROM THE PUBLISHERS Business Spotlight John’s Custom Stairs

10_ NEIGHBORHOOD NOIR June 4, 1949. Marie & Charles Leuzzi celebrate their wedding day with Marie’s father, Fred Salice

12_ HANGIN’ OUT

Not Your Nona’s Wallpaper New patterns & textures turn flocking into fabulous courtesy of Fetterman Design Group

70 BRIDES GUIDE

62_ THE MENU Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic courtesy of Lombardi’s Prime Meats

70_ BRIDES GUIDE Franca Tavella & Leonard Altieri ‘What are you doing for the next 40 or 50 years?’ by Joe Volpe

Dioramas and cottonball wreaths Ee i ee i ohhhh! by Tony Santini

38_ REAL ESTATE

| MAY | JUNE 2020

MUSIC

Jeanine & Teddy Koutras with Denise LaRosa at Aunt Sue’s 90th birthday at Stogie Joe’s

20_ ROWHOME REMEMBERS

APRIL

83_ MUSIC & ARTS Local Band Spotlight Kick it Out by Matt Kelchner

96_ PRESSED Sisters’ Edge by Dorette Rota Jackson

REAL ESTATE

ON THE COVER ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Real People. Real Stories.

photos by Andrew Andreozzi

Stories of courage, resilience and new beginnings thanks to the support of family, friends and the healthcare community that led them on their journeys of a lifetime. We dedicate this edition of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine to all of you.

Nancy Hinkie Wendy Hamilton Angel Salerno 4

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

53 gohomephilly.com

VOLUME_46 ISSUE 56 APRIL

| MAY | JUNE 2020

GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

Family owned & operated since 2004 Mission Statement Our mission is to preserve the traditions, showcase the neighborhoods and promote the local businesses that strengthen the economy and improve the quaility of life for all of us. 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 COPY COORDINATOR | THE MENU

Maria Merlino LOCAL BAND CONSULTANT

Albert Fortino PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrew Andreozzi Phil Kramer Maria Merlino ACCOUNT MANAGER

Theresa Palestino NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Michael Rhoades CONTRIBUTORS Mark Casasanto Anthony Panvini David Cava Santina Pescatore Joei DeCarlo Lou Pinto Frank DePasquale Jr., Esq Michael Rhoades Victoria DiPietro Marialena Rago Larry Gallone Jane Roser Brett Jackson Jade Rota Matt Kelchner Debbie Russino Maria Merlino Anthony Santini John Nacchio Geno Thackara Vincent R. Novello, Jr. Dominique Verrecchio Stephen Pagano Robert “Woody” Woodard

Exceptionally Built. Eternity of Beauty.

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 Facebook.com/PhiladelphiaRowHomeMagazine Twitter.com/RowHomeMag Instagram.com/RowHomeMag 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. 2020 Philadelphia RowHome Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. Published by Philadelphia RowHome Inc.

1721 E. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.551.9070

www

.aandpcustomkitchens.com

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 5

The rowhome is Philadelphia’s gift to the nation. Symbolizing pride in home ownership, a few neighborhood craftsmen loaded a prefabbed rowhome onto a truck and carted it off to Chicago for the World’s Fair back in 1876. It was an instant success. Families left their high-risers and multi-family brownstones

for the chance to live in a single family rowhome – affordable houses lined one against the other – that gave way to close-knit neighborhoods and corner stores that fueled the local economy for generations to follow. John’s Custom Stairs is one of those family-owned businesses.

It started back in 1927 when Giuseppe Tenaglia opened his first woodshop. By 1931, his family was crafting the finest custom stairs and wooden doors in Philadelphia from their shop at 8th & Snyder, where they continue to this day. Now headed by grandson John Tenaglia and a team of superior artisans, this-third generation,

family-owned business continues to leave its signature mark in homes and businesses around the city and across state lines. Stairways, railings, balusters, wooden and glass doors – impeccably handcrafted and precisely installed – are a tribute to the legacy of the old-world craftsmen that built a nation. See page 30

John’s Custom Stairs is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

John’s Custom Stairs & Wooden Doors 2115 S. 8th Street | Philadelphia, PA 19148 | 215.463.1211 w w w. j o h n s c u s t o m s ta i r . c o m

PRH Business Spotlight

JOHN’ S

CUSTOM STAIRS

John Tenaglia Anthony Giacobetti

the DIFFERENCE is IN THE DETAILS photo by ANDREW ANDREOZZI

artisan |ˈärtizən|

Noun Credits a worker in a1492 skilled trade, esp. one Society / Columbus Day Parade Continental that involvesBentley making things GT by Convertible hand. courtesy of F.C. Kerbeck Thank you to our driver Anthony!

Dorette & Dawn River to River. One Neighborhood.

THEMAILBOX APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2020 EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: INFO@GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

DORETTE & DAWN:

I am still laughing after reading about the praying hands [Pressed, Winter 2020]. Your poor mom. A classic, ladies! Keep up the great work. Tom Robinson

DORETTE & DAWN:

Just have to let you know I’m wetting myself over “The Clap” article [Pressed, Winter 2020]. You’re describing every mom, me included. Leave your mom alone! We are a different generation. We were born to cook and clean. Hahaha! You made my night. Donna Anello

Y’ S ANTNHCOON FFEE ss Spotlight

PRH Busine

ITALIA LATE HOUlatSeriEa - Ge CO e House CffeHeO Chocolat House –

DORETTE & DAWN:

Well, you know I love to read Dorette’s page [Pressed], first. I actually had to run upstairs, I was laughing so hard! Dorette, I remember reading your column in The Review. You never lost your touch! If anyone is feeling down, read RowHome! Patty Phelan Philly

DEAR DORETTE AND DAWN:

I read the article that Geno Thackara wrote about Val Shively [Winter, 2020] and it was fantastic. It brought back wonderful memories of me and my late husband when we used to go up there at least two times a week to buy oldie records. The article was well-written and I will never forget Val. Thank Geno for me. With much love and gratitude, Linda Amicone Ricciardi

WE still LOVE LUCY!

photo by ZZI ANDREO ANDREW

r ā| olat,ie choc ˌSHôkəläˈty ôk(ə)ləˈti(ə)r |ˌCH

Noun

olate. seller of choc French. a maker or 19th cent.: ORIGIN late

ly & to Food, Fami Our salute a trip begins with e & Traditions Italian Coffe to Anthony’s e we House wher ce Chocolate down the chan couldn’t turn before they the goods . The to sample display cases latereached the scents of chocods sights and thing remin covered every sweeter is ng you that nothi

y shop! world cand than an old eats American The average this a pound of at least half cy a month! decadent delica te to chocolate A fitting tribu try in this n indus – a $4 billio ic one of mim to us led country – sitcoms childhood Anasour favorite of Anthony with the help ation of family tasio, 4th gener

ian Coffee

Ital Anthony’s

Dawn Dorette & River to River. od. borho One Neigh

n rs on the Italia ony’s business owne opened Anth . Market, who House in 1995 21!) Chocolate t it on Page (Read all abou is one of the most Job Switching of I Love Lucy. It des popular episo 15, 1952. September upset first aired on and Fred get When Ricky spending, Lucy about the girls’ work in a candy to and Ethel go

as they wreak havoc factory and lates off box the choco attempt to conveyor belt. the a fast-moving remember If you don’t g to are too youn episode or Google I Love Lucy, remember to Anthony’s it! Then head ory. mem and taste a

te House

& Chocola

586 t | 215.627.2 S. 9th Stree 903 & 905 e.com ysonlin anthon

DEAR PRH:

Thank you for the business profile shout-out in your Winter issue. We had a blast working together to recreate this iconic I Love Lucy episode! Anthony Anastasio Anthony’s Italian Coffee & Chocolate House

Just a note of gratitude for your wonderful RowHome Magazine. We both grew up in South Philly and we really enjoy the pictures and articles and recipes. The section with old pictures needs to come with tissues. It is bittersweet. Keep up the great work! Gayton & Joann Bongiorno Marlton, NJ

DORETTE & DAWN:

Just when I say to myself, what else could they possibly put in the magazine...the [Winter 2020] issue is outrageous! That Lucy and Ethel photo blew me away! The Roaring 20s, the drinks. It just keeps getting better and better. Wonderful wonderful wonderful issue. Denise LaRosa

DEAR PRH:

I’m reading and savoring every word in January’s issue. The Rose Ball was touching and inspiring. Our family has a beautiful Rose. She has been lighting up a room with her smile for 30 years. I appreciate the variety and diversity your magazine brings us with every issue. Thanks Dawn and Dorette and all who keep things fresh and interesting. Joan Young

DORETTE & DAWN:

I enjoyed this mag so much! [I got my copy] at the Hyundai Dealership. So many memories of my childhood on S. Mole Street in South Philly. Diane Aloi Gardner

Mail yo

ur $16

paymen

t and th

is card

Name

dress

the oppo

site side

Print)

➦

email ad

Please fill out the

to the ad

dress on

(Please

SUBSCRIPTION CARD

Addres

s/Apt.

phone

City/Sta

❏ YES! Please te/Zip

send a

bscriptio

n of PR

H to:

(Please

Addres

s/Apt.

➦

$16 gift su

Name

Print)

City/Sta

te/Zip

Or pay on line at www

.goho Visa/MC/Am mephilly.com /subscrib erican *an addit e ional $5 Express/Discov charge for er/PayPa service l

IL located here and drop it in the MA be will today! Your next issue of PRH delivered right to your doorstep! Or m! subscribe online at gohomephilly.co

fees appli

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

2611 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Montessori Preschool

September Enrollment Open Now american montessori society Member School

Full Day Programs, Before and After School Care

phillychildrenshouse.com â&#x20AC;˘ 215.570.0757

ant trict. Bry chool Dis S n SD. io M er L M f urtesy o at Lower . Photo co ammates ip te sh is n h io & p ant tate Cham Kobe Bry e 1996 S ces to th led the A

July 1952. 12th & Ore gon. The Masino family (l to r) Ed, Frank Sr., Joe (Buddy), Frank Jr. & Marie.

1945. Fro

nt & Ore gon. Anth Galiano, ony Chick’s A uto Parts .

tt St. k of Garre s. 600 bloc i it Early1920 n gi ul nelli F Theresa Ia Polino. with Josie

te & Pe Coco ps. n e m B ha oco, ue C Joe C n’s Leag . s e Me Lan ight gon ay N . Ore 1963 Wednesd ini, Sant

nzaldo Frank A Santini, t e et P , p t arty a Coco tiremen 1993. Ben b. t Pete’s re a lu i C n l ti a n ci a o S eS & Frank ican Bocc an-Amer the Itali

1947. St. Petersburg FL. Robert H. Roser Jr., age 1. He’s not happy. He can’t reach the beer bottle!

June. 1946. Ita lo & Michelina Pa squini wedding portr ait.

1954. Christm as time at 13th & Jackson. The original Joe Ro cco, MarieElena Ro cco & Linda Ro cco.

chelina Pasquini

1946. Italo & Mi

1962/63 . Cindy S essions R Publicity oser. photo fo r a perfo rmance at Valdosta State Co llege.

Oliveri Dorothy . Frank & etti). as om (T circa 1957 a d ghter Ton with dau

Nave were 1954. Dom & Joan e’s Day. tin engaged on Valen

1943. P FC Hen ry Merl from th ino e 2600 block of Watt s Street.

1948. Elaine Liberati Nas eef at Gimbel’s Deptartmen t store in Cent er City.

1940. Rose (C

osta) Brock, 12

& . Marie , 1949 4 ate e r n b u J zi cele s Leuz with y a Charle d g eddin lice. their w red Sa ther, F fa â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marie

th & McKean.

1954. R

ose & C

harlie G

uida on

their h

1936. Alb

oneym

in her (Sokolski) Retallick en . ar K St . d 1957 orelan on Westm backyard

circa 1940s. 19

00 block of S. 12th St. Rose Marie Costa Brock.

15. Florence Re

ed Retallick.

ert Nigli

oon.

o, US Nav

VOLUME _47 ISSUE 57_ 2020 GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2020

angin’ Out with Nancy H Lombardo, MarieElena Abbruzzi & Denise Capone.

angin’ out at Dana H Juliano’s 50th birthday bash.

oretti Girls Class of 1974 G are hangin’ out with Vic DiBitetto at Galdo’s.

angin’ out on Christmas H Eve 2019 with Nhi, Mai Vy, Tuong Vy, Cloe.

HANGIN’OUT

appy 90th Birthday H to Susie Bassetti with her grandaughters Gabrielle & Ali.

orette & Dawn are hangin’ D out with Ann Catania & RowHome’s 2018 Blue Sapphire Award winner Leon Huff (Gamble & Huff) at Bob Pantano’s 43rd anniversary Dance Party at Adelphia. Bob will receive PRH’s 2020 Blue Sapphire Award on Nov 4 at Vie. Congratulations Bob Pantano!

awn is hangin’ out D at Penrose Diner with Nancy Hinkie. ina Impagliazzo with G cousin-in-law, “The Real Gina Impagliazzo,” at the Heather & Greg Palestini wedding ceremony at St. Rita Cascia Catholic Church. randfather Pete Santini; G son Tony Santini; grandson Anthony Santini, Jr. & great-grandson Michael Impagliazzo III are hangin’ out at Michael’s Christening reception at La Famiglia Caterers.

10. J eanine & Teddy Koutras with Denise LaRosa at Aunt Sue’s 90th birthday at Stogie Joe’s.

11. T oni LaRosa Rosen’s 50th Birthday Bash at Barclay Prime. 12. D ebbie Moore is hangin’ out at Popi’s with her sisters Cathy Brady & Peggy Quirk to celebrate her retirement! 13. S till Hangin’ Out since 1964! Pencil Sharpener in parents’ basement on 11th & Wolf. Photo courtesy of Tony Santini. 14. D orette & Dawn snap a selfie with Bob Pantano at Adelphia, celebrating 43 years of his Saturday Night Dance Party on WOGL FM. 15. D orette & Dawn meet up with 2020 Blue Sapphire Award winner Kenny Jeremiah (Soul Survivors) at the Bob Pantano Saturday Night Dance Party! 16. H angin’ Out in NYC - Liz Juliano, MarieElena Abbruzzi Adele & Meg Henry. 17. B renda & Amanda celebrate Becky’s wedding at the Ye Olde Centerton Inn in Elmer, NJ on Leap Day! 18. P erry deMarco Jr. is hangin’ out with Wingman Perry III & Grandbam Susan deMarco. 19. M ai Vy, Tuong Vy, Long, Lana (South Philly Nails), Khanh Linh are hangin’ out. 20. B aby Anastasia “Ana” Buonacuore - born January 5th - hangs out in her roaring ‘20s attire! 21. P RH’s Mark Casasanto & the Imperial Events Security Services security team hang out with country music’s John Rich after an appearance at the Philadelphia Flower Show for a bottle signing of his whiskey, Redneck Riviera.

5 12

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

12 13

14 15

20 April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 13

PRHON THE CORNER

TAKING

SUNDAY BACK

ON THE CORNER with MARK CASASANTO

’ve said it before and I’ll say it, again. There’s something about a Sunday. The first day of the week, the last day of the week, the Lord’s Day. Call it what you will, but I do love me a Sunday.

It’s been a long time coming

My kids are young adults now and moving about their lives quite nicely. Gone are the Sunday soccer matches and weekend tournaments that once covered the calendar and filled me with parental pride...and coaching conundrums. As for me, there are certain industries and occupations that “handcuff” you to the weekend. I do

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

There’s something about a Sunday. The first day of the week, the last day of the week, the Lord’s Day. gohomephilly.com

believe I have worked in most of them I’m not complaining, though. Having two days off during the week most of my working life has had some distinct advantages. Yet, here we are, and although I’m not quite sure how I progressed to this point in my career, this quickly, I’m now looked upon as “the old head who has done it all, just ask him.” Or as I prefer to say, the event lifer who has the balls to honestly tell you if and how it will work and more importantly, how to navigate the potential hazards just up ahead and around the bend. So, let’s just say this. As careers go, I’m in The September of My Years. With countless miles under my well-worn feet, I’ve earned the right, within reason, to call my shots as I travel on. Plain and simple, for peace of mind, it was time to start taking Sunday back. I wanted and needed to, but who would have thought the powers of the universe would deliver a standing eight count to life as we once knew? Without warning, a month of gloomy Sundays was thrust upon us in what soon became the new and unwanted norm.

These are the people in your neighborhood

In one of my very first PRH columns, many deadlines ago, I wrote how Philadelphians often define their neighborhood by the church and parish boundaries where they live or grew up. True story. I was in California for some business meetings and through a series of “Wait… you’re kidding me right?” moments, I met a gentleman who was maybe 20 years my senior. Instantly, we both knew there was some sort of innate connection and when we finally got around to introductions, he simply said his name and then “St. Edmond’s.” I countered with an extended hand and said, “Mark from St. Monica’s.” Hmm. Remember the days when we actually shook hands? That story lays claim to what I truly believe in my heart. A sense of community originates with the centerpiece of the neighborhood. That keystone is often

the church, the coffee shop, place of business or ball field.

Say Hello!

Recently, we, not I, relocated. To state it succinctly, I’m a 54-yearold, second-generation Italian, living with an African-American beauty (who is much more my junior), her 10-year-old son (who is half Puerto Rican) and our cute, cuddly but crazy Chihuahua Junie. We live just off the Italian Market, which is now more Asian and Mexican than it is Italian. I don’t need diversity training... like ever. I live it. We didn’t look to relocate here, we needed to... out of circumstances dictated by sheer necessity. It had to be fate. Truth be told, I’m not sure there can be a more perfect destination for the status quo than right here in the heart of the Italian Market. In more ways than one, this wonderfully blended community made the uncertainties of the Coronavirus era more manageable. Obviously, 9th Street is the focal point of this neighborhood. I look forward to my Sunday strolls through the market to St. Paul’s Church. I grew comfortable with the scene. Locals, tourists, suburbanites, business owners and employees, alike. A community connected by commerce, food, time-tested traditions and deep-seeded roots. Different these days in looks, cultures and backgrounds, yes. But, for Mark from St. Paul’s parish, these suddenly familiar faces and places are truly a bella vista! So, as we collectively emerge from the darkness of the isolation of the weeks gone by and the dawn of many new seasons approaches, I am truly thankful for the soft landing in new surroundings, during what could have been a very bumpy ride. PRH “Come out, come out, wherever you are …” We’ve got a lot of catching up to do. onthecornermark@verizon.net

T ROAST - S INGLEY INSURANCE

AGENCY, LLC

TROAST-SINGLEY INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC Your Insurance Professionals

Excellent Rates & Excellent Customer Service Auto Homeowners Business Life Insurance 2700 S. 18th Street * Philadelphia, PA 19145 Call For A Free Quote!

215-339-0333 www.troast-singleyagency.com April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 15

â&#x20AC;&#x2030;PRHLIFE

MEET US ON

BLOG! the

While you await your print issue each quarter, keep yourselves up to date on all things RowHome by visiting our online blog! w w w . g o h o m e p h i l ly b l o g . c o m

Our writers work between issues to share news and reviews a few times each week. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find RowHome updates, exciting articles, interviews with local businesses, press releases and news from our city, show reviews, local actor and musician interviews, contests, recipes, creative writing, sports recaps and more. Anything goes! So log on and stay connected to the neighborhood!

River to River. One Neighborhood.

2531-35 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia PA 19148

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

ART IN THE STREETS Mural Arts Porch Light Program

F A RT

or more than 35 years now, Mural Arts Philadelphia has been working hard to dot the city with beautiful, eyecatching works of art that are larger than life. With close to 4,000 projects under their belt, Mural Arts Philadelphia proudly holds the title as the nation’s largest public arts program. Through moving designs and a collaborative process, artists aim to inspire a community and individuals, alike. Mural Arts features three core programs: Art Education, Restorative Justice and Porch Light. Thanks to Mural Arts and these programs, any seemingly normal city walk is transformed into a stroll through an art gallery. Often times, the murals have profound and lasting effects on a neighborhood. This is by no coincidence. Mural Arts Philadelphia strongly believes in the

by Matt Kelchner power of art and the positive effects it can have on someone, no matter who they are. One of the best examples of this theory in action is the Mural Arts Porch Light program. Started in 2007, it helps to address areas affected by issues such as mental health, substance use, spirituality, homelessness, trauma, immigration, war and neighborhood safety. By leading a collaborative process that helps foster physical improvements in areas throughout the city, new opportunities for social connections and positive changes crop up within a community. At the heart of Porch Light sits a unique partnership between Mural Arts Philadelphia, the city’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services. With every project, a number of partners ranging from local businesses to government agencies and larger corporations join in to help contribute to the process. Though they come in a number of different shapes and sizes,

many of the programs through Porch Light offer ways for neighbors to come together to help tackle the problems at hand. The initiative’s first major project, Bridging the Gap, aimed to ease growing tensions between two groups in a Southwest Philadelphia neighborhood - the longstanding African American community and West African immigrants who were moving in. Through a series of meetings, local leaders from both groups collaborated with the Porch Light program and artist Willis “Nomo” Humphrey to create a visual story that combined meaningful imagery from each community. The artwork depicted central themes revolving around issues and stereotypes, recognizing similarities in one another and coming together as one neighborhood. James Burns’ Sanctuary (photo above) was designed to raise awareness about mental and emotional health as well as to start conversation about what April / May / June 2020

constitutes community health. The design is inspired by the Enso circle - a type of meditation that involves clarity of mind and movement of the hand. Burns incorporated natural elements and imagery created by participants in workshops at Broad Street Ministry and around the city. Fast forward to today and through the Porch Light program, more than 40 murals have been completed with the help of more than 3,000 community members. Projects such as Southeast by Southeast, Kensington Storefront and Northeast Passage are just a few of the many community building initiatives that Mural Arts Philadelphia have helped to fuel. As they continue forward in 2020, they are showing no sign of slowing down! PRH Visit www.muralarts.org/ program/porch-light for more information on their projects.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 17

PRHLIFE

Lions, Tigers & Brews, oh my! What’s New at the

ZOO ?

photos/Article courtesy of the Philadelphia Zoo photo of gorillas by Tom Hartman

nimals are on the move like never before at Philadelphia Zoo with Zoo360, a first-in-the-world system of see-through trails passing through treetops, crossing over pathways and connecting habitats, giving animals more opportunities to travel and explore! Another first for Philadelphia Zoo and the world, Zoo360 offers exciting and enriching experiences for animals and visitors, alike, taking the Zoo experience to a whole new level. This pioneering exhibit benefits animals by offering more opportunities for longdistance travel and enhances the guest experience by creating a more dynamic engagement with animals. Zoo360 is currently comprised of Treetop Trail, Great Ape Trail, Big Cat Crossing, Gorilla Treeway and Meerkat Maze, with trails linking existing animal habitats so animals with similar habitat requirements can utilize each other’s spaces in a time-sharing system.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

jungle from which they come.

Now as you move around the Zoo, the Zoo moves around you.

This spring, don’t miss the Zoo’s cutest new additions – a new sloth bear cub born in December, François Langur baby born in March – our gorilla family including two-toddler western lowland gorillas Amani and Ajabu, plus giraffes, hippos, white rhino, zebras, red pandas, Amur tigers, African lions and more at America’s first Zoo. While strolling the Zoo’s beautiful 42-acre gardens, guests can check out awardwinning exhibits like Big Cat Falls, PECO Primate Reserve, McNeil Avian Center and KidZooU, an indoor/outdoor wildlife academy that offers dynamic displays, rare breeds and hands-on experiences. Of course, visiting amazing animals is why so many visit the Zoo but did you know the Zoo also offers awesome attractions for your entire group to enjoy! Yes, family fun kicks up a notch as the spring season rolls around with the opening of all of the Zoo’s awesome attractions!

Experience the Zoo differently and check out…

WILDWORKS. Take an aerial adventure crossing bridges, balancing on ropes, climbing through obstacles and taking an exciting zip line … all while safely hitched to a climbing harness! WildWorks, an ultra-exhilarating experience, offers high-flying fun, encouraging guests to push limits and reach new heights. AMAZON RAINFOREST CAROUSEL. Enjoy this enchanting hand-painted carousel and glide on amazing animals like jaguars and anacondas while listening to sounds of the Philadelphia Zoo

Website:

SWAN BOATS. Jump into a Swan Boat and paddle around the Zoo’s beautiful Bird Lake. Built for two to three people, Swan Boats are an active and fun way to experience America’s first Zoo. SEPTA® PZ EXPRESS TRAIN. Truly a hit with the littles, take a picturesque ride on the Zoo’s very own SEPTA PZ Express Train and take in the sights and sounds of America’s first Zoo.

Upcoming Zoo Events Lions, Tigers and Brews — Oh My! Saturday, June 20th Beer! Summer Ale Festival returns for another year of specialty brews, live entertainment, awesome food trucks and animals from around the world. In addition to a fun night of amazing memories, Summer Ale Festival serves as an important fundraiser supporting the Philadelphia Zoo’s mission to create joyful discovery and inspire action for animals and habitats. To purchase tickets, visit www. PhiladelphiaZoo.org.

Zoo Gift Ideas Go Behind-theScenes… at the Zoo! Have you ever hand-fed a colony of penguins, pet a rhinoceros behind the ear or come face-to-face with a 20-foot tall Reticulated giraffe? Now’s your chance! Going behind the scenes is an incredible way to experience and support the Philadelphia Zoo. Choose from seven aweinspiring encounters including Humboldt penguins, Galapagos tortoises, hippos, giraffes, big cats, giant otters and a white rhinoceros. Choose your adventure today at www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org. PRH

215.243.1100

Come See What’s Up this Spring

3400 West Girard Ave.

www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org

Facebook:

PhiladelphiaZoo

Instagram:

@philadelphiazoo

Twitter: @phillyzoo

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 19

Row Home Remembers PRH Life

HAPPY WINDOWS

• 2-inch wood • Pleated Shades • Shutters • Roman Shades • Verticals • Drapes • Mini Blinds • Valances

Call Eileen 215.465.7525 DISCOUNT PRICE WITH INSTALLATION

Anthony Fanelli Your Local Realtor

www . ajfsellshomes . com

Anthony@ajfsellshomes.com Cell: 215-301-4382 Office: 215-309-3269 20

Dioramas and cottonball wreaths

Ee i ee i ohhhh! M

by Tony Santini

y children are three years apart. This positioned them three grades apart in school. In just about every school year, our youngest child’s teachers asked her if she had an older brother. Once confirmed, they would give her some variation of the following: ‘Well, I hope you don’t give me as much trouble as he did or it’s going to be a long year for you!’ Ha-ha, lol, very funny…a little something she had to endure through grade school and high school. Parents of school-aged children endure a lot during a school year, too! Homework projects! I wonder if aspiring teachers were required to take a class in college that had chapters devoted to mandatory classroom projects for each grade. I’m guessing that at the end of each chapter, there is a footnote that says, “Parental assistance on this project is highly frowned upon but there’s a good chance they will get involved.” My wife and I spent many nights and weekends “bonding” with our children on educational projects (a.k.a. homework) such as building a replica of the solar system using various shaped balls; an active mini-volcano using baking soda and vinegar; an igloo made out of sugar-cubes; a macaroni jewelry box with petrified pasta; and, my favorite, the dreaded diorama. Parents who are reading this may be cringing at the memories of the time spent with their kids completing these projects, then transporting them to school on time, especially if your child was a procrastinator. According to Wikipedia, a diorama is a threedimensional miniature model that is a fun way to build an exciting scene in a small space. “Fun and exciting” are not words I would have used if you asked me for the definition. My kids had to build a diorama of a farm scene. Let me just say that it’s not easy to find mini-farm equipment and plastic farm animals in South Philly toy stores; get them to stay in place in a flipped shoebox when you don’t have a glue gun or the patience; and then, get the project to school the next day in one piece. The shouting and the tears were unbearable. And those were just from my wife.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

You put forth your best effort to help your kids with these projects because you love them and want to see them succeed. You try to make the project look grade-appropriate, only to go to school the next day and see other kids’ projects look like they were constructed by professional engineers. As a family, we did manage to get an “A” once on building a replica of the Great Pyramids of Egypt using leftover kitchen floor tiles. Our only regret is that we didn’t save our son’s completed projects so we could recycle them three years later when our daughter had to do the same thing. This parent-assisted, school project context is not just an East Coast thing. I have an acquaintance in Dallas, Texas, who is a subscriber to this magazine and shared a recollection of how she and her husband helped their twin daughters build a replica of the Alamo out of Popsicle sticks. In addition to the projects, our children took home the identical arts and crafts projects for each holiday during the school year. Once again, parents reading this know what I am talking about. We have two Thanksgiving turkeys made from the shape of the kid’s hands; two Santa faces with cotton-ball beards and two Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeers made from Popsicle sticks and yarn. Sure, they brought tears to our eyes when the kids gave them to us back in the day. Now, those decorations are more than 25-years-old and my wife still will not part with them. We pack them away every year and bring them out again the next holiday. Is there a statute of limitations for saving these things? Probably not. What parent would admit to throwing away their child’s original works of art? So, I salute the teachers who may be tired of doing the same homework assignments and arts and crafts projects year after year. But I’d bet that if they try to change it up, some parents would be very disappointed. ‘Why didn’t my child bring home a drawing of a Christmas wreath with her picture in the middle?’ Unlike the dioramas of days gone by, memories last a lifetime. PRH gohomephilly.com

PRHLIFE

“Lay Teachers” by Tony Santini

f you are a Baby Boomer (born between 1946 and 1964) or part of the Silent Generation (born between 1928 and 1945) and grew up Catholic, chances are you had nuns and priests as your educators in grade school and high school. If you got lucky during those years, you might have gotten one of the few “lay teachers” in the system. Did you ever wonder what that meant or were you just happy about not getting a certain nun? A lay teacher is an educator in a parochial school, who is a member of the religious community. The word is derived from the noun laity, which means “members of the Church who do not belong to the Clergy or Religious Order.” They are addressed as Miss, Ms., Mrs. or Mr. instead of Father or Sister. You always felt great hearing you were getting a teacher in the next grade as opposed to a priest or a nun. Don’t get me wrong. The Fathers and the Sisters were great educators. It’s just that their allblack or all-blue wardrobe emanated discipline while the everyday, business-casual dress code of the lay teachers leaned toward a more relaxed, permissive and maybe even more bearable environment.

When attending Epiphany of Our Lord Grade School back in the day, I know I was relieved to hear that I was assigned to Miss Virginia, Miss Rachel or Miss DeRose’s class in September. School seemed to be a fun place to go. Even through my four years of Catholic High School at Bishop Neumann, my memories of the priests were that they were strong educators with a no-nonsense approach to learning. If you ask me about past high school lay teachers, I’ll recall the “coolness” of Mr. Lew; the “South-Philly persona” of Mr. Colantuono, Mr. Manieri and Mr. Gagliardi; and even the sometimes “unique style” of Mr. Valentine or Mr. Rosbach. Discussions with the ladies from our sister-school, St. Maria Goretti, have revealed they, too, had their favorites with many mentions of Mr. Cassidy, Ms. Beren and Mr. Devalasco. So, this is a shout-out to all those real people – the lay teachers who have retired and the ones who are still doing it, today. We parents know that you can make more money teaching in the School District of Philadelphia but appreciate your choice to stay in the parochial school system and help us raise our kids Catholic. PRH

CRO

CONSTRUCTION, LLC. PHILADELPHIA, PA

DREAM it, We can BUILD it! If you can

CRO Construction, LLC. 215.952. 8740 www.croconstruction.net

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 21

St. Monica School

“THE PRIDE OF SOUTH PHILLY” Senior School:

2500 S. 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145

Junior School:

1720 W. Ritner Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145

Row Home Remembers PRH Life

Easters Past Amateur Theatre Troupe performs to a full house in 1931

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 22

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

by Donna Meidt For a 10-year period from 1924 until 1934, an amateur theatre group called The Filodramatic Circle Gasperinese produced The Passion of Christ at the auditorium of St. Mary Magdalene Auditorium at 7th & Christian Streets. A Playbill remains from March 30, 1931, at 7:30 pm, with music by Antonio Castano. Antonio N. Pisano was the Director and principal organizer of the troupe. Its cast included Italian Americans who came from Gasperina in Calabria, Italy, from whence it received its name. There were both men and women in the troupe, most of them married with children. They began rehearsing after Christmas and gathered at the church every Sunday with their families, including children. Some of the children were also in the play. The rehearsal became a social event for the family members not in the cast. Just prior to the production, which in 1931, was held on Easter Monday, they would gather in the neighborhood around the auditorium and have a procession with a leader who carried a large crucifix of Jesus Christ on the cross. The cast for 1931 included: Vincenzo Clerico as Jesus Christ; Angiolina Spadea as the Blessed Mother; Maria Pisano as Mary Magdalene; Vincenzo Paone as Peter; Giuseppe Grande as Pontius Pilate; Antonio Pisano as Judas; Francesco Spadea Anello as Herod; Domenico Spadea as Paggio and Rosina Iemmallo as Veronica. Many of their descendants are in the arts and entertainment industries. By 1934, the group disbanded as many moved from the area and became involved in other activities. PRH Photos provided are also in the Pisano and Siciliano Families Paper Collection #3135 at www.hsp.org at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

gohomephilly.com

PRHLIFE

Lorie-Lu

School of Dance SISTERS CELEBRATE FIVE DECADES OF KEEPING THINGS ON POINTE by Joei DeCarlo

F BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

or sisters Lorraine Speziale and Lucille Speziale-Bunion, dancing is in their blood. So much so that the siblings decided to share their love of dance with the rest of the neighborhood and opened the Lorie-Lu School of Dance & Gymnastics, which celebrates its 50th anniversary, this year. Lorie-Lu opened its doors at 11th & Moyamensing in 1970 and students today call their 1625 S. 11th Street location home. The sisters are the original owners and have made it their mission to teach students a variety of dance styles including ballet, jazz, tap, pointe, as well as gymnastics. All ages (as early as two) and abilities are welcome. Lorie-Lu has even worked with couples before their wedding day and choreographed routines for Ferko String Band, where their brother, the late Bill Speziale Sr., was a member. Bill not only supported and enjoyed the arts as much as his sisters, he purchased the studio’s permanent location in 1983. After five decades, Lorie-Lu knows a thing or two about standing the test of time. Lorraine and Lucille started dancing when they were five years old and haven’t taken off their tap shoes since. When asked how their studio keeps up with the times,

Lorraine says, “Technique. That’s the word that comes to mind. Also, the ability to incorporate both discipline and enjoyment. It’s a surreal feeling to watch the babies we’ve taught grow up and have babies of their own and bring them back for lessons.” Both Lorraine and Lucille recall music and the arts as an essential aspect of their upbringing. They say the relationship between dance and family dynamics is one of the major changes they’ve seen in past years. Lorraine explains, “Family is key. We look to our mother Connie as our family’s matriarch and see families come together at the studio to watch their students. We see not only mothers and fathers, anymore, but grandparents, aunts, uncles and extended family. We are in business for families and have seen first-hand how dance can bring family members together.” If you’d like to celebrate with the LorieLu family, you can attend their 50th annual recital on Friday, June 26, 2020, 6 pm, at the Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard. You can purchase your tickets at the studio. Anyone interested in taking lessons at Lorie-Lu can call 215.336.8890 or visit their website at www.lorielu.com. PRH Lorie-Lu School of Dance & Gymnastics is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 23

Wine Know by VINCENT R. NOVELLO JR.

Be Still and Reflect PRH Life

Never Save Your Good Wine for Tomorrow I have used this quote for as long as I can remember and now it hits home more than ever. It’s about savoring the little things in life. The everyday hustle and bustle that we took for granted is now more meaningful than ever. This time of staying home gives us the time to be still and reflect. Let’s make this time together

a time to cherish each other. We are creating memories that will last a lifetime. Share your thoughts, dreams and ideas with one another. Now more than ever, we should be thankful for all of our blessings. So, as you are cherishing the moments with your loved ones, pour yourselves a glass of wine, learn from one another and savor the moment.

Wine Recommendations ❚❙❘ RED WINES

❚❙❘ WHITE WINES

SHANNON RIDGE Zinfandel $11 LACRIMUS Apasionado Rioja $12 FRANCOIS LURTON Campesino Tempranillo $13 PINO SOCIETY Pinot Noir $14 CATENA MALBEC La Consulta $15

HOUSLEY’S CENTURY OAK WINERY Chardonnay $14 J. DEVILLE BOIS Sauvignon Blanc $10 SECONDO TEMPO Pinot Grigio $10 GRAND BATEAU Bordeaux Blanc $12

…and remember “Never save your good wine for tomorrow!” For more information contact Vincent Novello Vinoinfo824@aol.com 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.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

PRHON THE WATERFRONT

RIVERS GIVES…

AND GIVES AND GIVES! by EMILY DOÑES, Rivers Casino Community Relations Manager Images courtesy of Rivers Casino Philadelphia

Team Members of Philly’s Casino volunteer to benefit local organizations Rivers Gives, the newest community relations program at Rivers Casino Philadelphia, is already making an impact in the community. In the first three months, our Team Members sorted and packed donated food for the Philabundance Hunger Relief Center, volunteered at the African American Museum of Philadelphia and put together a clothing and supplies drive for Cradles to Crayons.

I’m so proud of the devoted team I love to call “Rivers Givers,” as we’re committed to providing 2,000 service hours annually to the Fishtown neighborhood and other Philadelphia communities. Here are just some of the upcoming events we have planned with the following fantastic organizations: Fishtown Neighbors Association – citywide cleanup Ronald McDonald House – guest chefs Operation Gratitude (in partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department) – care packages for U.S. service personnel Veterans Multi-Service Center – Thanksgiving turkey drive Lutheran Settlement House – community dinner

Rivers Casino Philadelphia Is Hiring!

If Rivers Casino Philadelphia sounds like a place you’d like to work, we’d love to see whether you’re a good fit for our growing team. With the recent additions of the BetRivers Sportsbook and Jack’s Bar + Grill, there are plenty of opportunities at the casino. Rivers is looking for hard workers with great personalities to work in Security, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Table Games, Operations and more. We also have FREE Dealer School, where you’ll be offered a full-time position upon graduation. The classes are open to the public and no experience is necessary. Our Team Members continue to vote the casino a “Best Place to Work” and “Top Workplace” in Philadelphia and that’s because Rivers Casino is a great place to work,

offers room for advancement and has fantastic benefits, including: Medical and dental coverage Matching 401(k) Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Rewards incentive program Please visit the Careers and Employment page at RiversCasinoPhiladelphia.com to see our current openings, or to apply for jobs or Dealer School. April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 25

PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE The Ferullo Insurance Agencies LLC has your best interests in mind. At the Ferullo Insurance Agencies LLC it’s not just our job to help guide you to a future worth looking forward to, it’s our passion. The way we see it, putting you first means understanding your needs and making sure you get coverage at the right price.

AUTO

LET’S TALK TODAY. John Ferullo 1636 S FRONT ST PHILADELPHIA, PA 19148 215-468-4116 www.ferulloinsurance.com

HOME

BUSINESS

Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Life insurance is issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company or Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio. Nationwide, Nationwide Is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2020 Nationwide CPC-0435AO (09/17) 12071560

COFFEE with GOD

Free online movie courtesy of local filmmaker Nick Lanciano

The Mike Giordano Jr. and Sr. Duo at

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 26

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Despite a very small budget, Coffee with God has been gaining a lot of attention for local producer Nick Lanciano – winning several film festival awards since its release in 2019. After four years, Lanciano is finally ready to share his movie with the public – for free. “I have decided that it is not important to make money with this film, right now. What’s important is to help people take their minds off of everything; to help people feel better about the world and themselves,” Lanciano says. “This is what the message of the film is all about.” The story revolves around Jack, who starts every day with a cup of coffee...and a chat with God. Armed with the power to heal, the ability to deliver Divine messages and a sharp wit, Jack carries out God’s missions – sometimes in the most unorthodox ways. His latest mission is to help a foster child who is suffering from a mysterious, life-threatening illness. Jack quickly realizes this mission is unlike any other. His faith is put to the test as he struggles to understand God’s will while doing everything he can to save the young girl’s life. “Our hope is that this film touches the hearts of the viewers and sends a message that many people may need to hear now,” Lanciano says. View Coffee With God at www.lancianoproductions.org

gohomephilly.com

TO OUR ROWHOME FAMILY OF READERS

Dear Friends, ions and , online subscript Utility companies hid offerd of t an s ou ng are waiving fee e may just be comi delivery services tge Or . is. d th in times of need ing when you rea ing free services rmal. A new no as life to ck ba y stores, auto ser ting esses like grocer sin bu l h tia ug ro sen th Es living and dry cleaners normal. We are res, Laundromats sto re ed wa liv rd er ha ev es, ’ve vic customers. days unlike any we y to serve anxious stocked and read eping the faith. ke are d an ce pla in Sheltering offerthrough before. waiving fees and y companies are help keep ilit to Ut ck clo e th d ed. ing aroun es in times of ne People are work k you all. ing support servic We want to than e. saf es iti un their comm providing free vir ms and zoos are mmunity. The eu co us M are hc alt he r ute ou gaged. Every year, we sal sons to keep us en and spirit. tual tours and les us – mind, body al he o wh n me live shows men and wo e to the online lessons or s are offering free – our annual salut an ue ici iss us is M th on music and n Productio COVIDall still enjoy the l media so we can rted weeks before cia sta so – gh ity ou un thr preciation! mm medical co nt you to forget to tip in ap o our lives. We wa direly miss. Don’t int so y we wa s ly ert ug nc co its now. 19 barged y and especially rmances and grateful every da ing virtual perfo e th know that we are on Theatres are offer are ity un mm co s and keep al art our medic mersed in the The members of themselves sses to keep us im ng cla tti pu ic, t. em nd afl global pa non-profits) oa front lines of this venues (many are we need. eir re th ca e th ve ha ensure we ding stories to in harm’s way to and teachers are rea ies rit leb ce ts s, en an ev ari Libr edented teachers! You ed many unprec ht. Especially the We have witness virtually each nig we would like ren d ild An ch s. ek we used on learning al st sever keep students foc unfold in these pa for rising up lesson plans to le ed op ipp pe wh ny as planned. ma so to thank e and/or graduate to take this time complete the grad on to see ati can y pir the ins so an is It s we face. ies are to the challenge emed television ser another. ther to help one and/or medical-th ge al to pit os ing H rk wo ortage. sh how we are the world sees a eir set supplies as liv th de g e tin fre na do ing fer are of rd Small businesses and Pixar’s Onwa released Frozen 2 ally. us loc Pl ts ey uc sn od Di pr eir ery of th can enjoy them. time so our kids ut of d eo ea tak ah ial hs ec nt sp mo creating Restaurants are prove n and waivre acts of kindness e food to childre fre ing fer And so many mo menus, of d. . ite s fed these, we are un to keep our familie that in times like ing delivery fees igh ne d an not ily ow that you have checking in on fam e want you to kn , Our readers are W als me em th g kin l. em supplies, ma We are so gratefu bors -- lending th gone unnoticed. they need, ing yth er ev ve ha are that Village. and ensuring they es a Village. We l media. tak cia It so via ip sh ion ther. including compan al er to keep it toge face masks for loc Let’s work togeth Yers are crafting DI d an rs tee world. lun Vo nt to see in this ess the shortage. facilities to addr the change we wa r be he t’s ot d Le an ls ita hosp doors outside our front e, EMTs, miliders -- police, fir what’s happening e on us sp ca re Be st Philafir r Ou beloved streets of ials are keepfurther than our and federal offic ch te mu sta s y, nd cit pa d ex an ery single tary they navigate r neighbors on ev and protected as happening to ou d It’s me ia. or inf lph een de us ing ead. d this is God’s gr ters in the days ah d’s green earth. An wa Go ed on art nt ch ine un faith. nt e co these may be, keep th ur higher power deliverers e yo ag er ck ev pa ho d W e. an . s om rth er ea er, we shall overc Our postal work il and supther. And togeth ma ge to er is liv th de in d an are ess We continue to proc . eltering in place sh are we ile wh plies Our time to heal.

nd chance. ginning. Our seco be w ne r ou is s hi T atching us. Our babies are w t. gh ri it t ge ’s et L

Dorette & Dawn April / May / June 2020 | ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 27

As part of its annual “Salute to Service” Program, Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) will present its Blue Sapphire Award to individuals whose “selfless dedication to the City of Philadelphia has left an indelible mark on the culture and traditions of our neighborhoods for future generations to enjoy.”

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine announces its 2020 winners

2020 Blue Sapphire Award Recipients All great accomplishments begin with a dream

SONNY HILL

Edward J. McBride Service to Community Award

CHARLES INGUI (Soul Survivors) Lifetime Music Achievement Award

KENNY JEREMIAH

(Soul Survivors) Lifetime Music Achievement Award

JOHN NASH

Harry Kalas Memorial Sports Award

Join us for the biggest Night of the Year! An Affair to Remember XV & 2020 Blue Sapphire Awards Gala sponsored by Cescaphe Event Group Vie

| 600 N. Broad Street | Philadelphia, PA 19123

Wednesday, November 4th, 2020

BOB PANTANO Entertainment Award

JOHN & JOANN VACCA The Petal Pusher Florist & Decorators Local Business Success Story Award

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Guests will meet on the Red Carpet at 6 p.m. for an elaborate cocktail reception followed by a five-course dinner. Open Bar. Complimentary Valet Parking. Entertainment provided by guest band The Business.

gohomephilly.com

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine announces its 2020 winners

2020 WishRock Award Winners Anything is possible if you believe in yourself

BRIANNA MAZZOLA

Springton MS

MIKE RAYMOND, JR.

Roman Catholic HS

DAN STEVENSON, JR. St. Joseph’s Preparatory HS

Tickets are $150. Tables of 10 are $1,500 and include sponsorship. Individual sponsorships available. Contact Carol at 215.462.9777 or info@gohomephilly.com

CLASSIC AMERICAN FARE WITH A UNIQUE TWIST & WATERFRONT VIEWS

NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER HAPPY HOUR

SUNDAY – THURSDAY | 5PM – 7PM

CRAFT BEER

FOOD SPECIALS

SUNDAY BRUNCH FREE LIVE MUSIC

11AM – 3PM

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 10PM – 1:30AM

HOUSE WINE

LATE NIGHT MENU

SUNDAY – THURSDAY | 10PM – 12AM FRIDAY & SATURDAY | 12AM – 2AM

SPECIALTY COCKTAILS

RIVERSCASINO.COM/PHILADELPHIA 1001 NORTH DELAWARE AVE, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19125 FREE SELF-PARKING

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER. April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 29

PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE

“WILD BILL”

Guarnere statue commemorates local Band of Brothers Wartime hero joins Edward “Babe” Heffron in local memorial

by MARIA MERLINO

Philly Just steps from the Herron Playground at 2nd and Reed Streets, the families of William “Wild Bill” Guarnere and Edward “Babe” Heffron attended the unveiling of the William “Wild Bill” Guarnere statue. The iconic marble steps are symbolic of the row home upbringing of these two wartime heroes who grew up in the same neighborhood. The bronze statue of Babe was installed in 2015. Wild Bill was installed in November 2019. Heffron, a private in Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, contributed to the capture of Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest in Germany, among many other courageous acts. Guarnere, a sergeant in Easy Company, 2nd Battalion of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, parachuted into Normandy, France, during the D-Day Allied Invasion 75 years ago. He lost a leg in combat.

Gene Guarnere holds up a copy of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine, which features a story about his father. “My father never talked about the war. My brother Bill and I had no idea of his wartime accomplishments. We just knew Daddy lost his leg in the war. Not until the series, Band of Brothers came out, did we know to what extent my father and “Babe” served our country. It’s inspiring.”

Sculptor Terry Jones is known for his monumental bronzes portraying a variety of historic personalities and military themes. He worked closely with the families to achieve the finest results. “The memorial is now complete. These images will stand side-by-side for all eternity. Bill and Babe answered the call and now they are in a safer place. Inside of Babe’s statue are his cremains in an anatomical heart I sculpted and placed in his chest. This is now sacred ground.”

Ken Wong, Civilian Aid to the Secretary of the Army; Ken Adams, a Gold Star nephew and Mayor James F. Kenney attend the ceremony and unveiling. Mayor Kenney was instrumental in the success of the project. As a Councilperson, he led the six-year project effort under the Philadelphia Foundation and appropriated $27,000 in funds to execute the memorial. “They stood together along with their fellow servicemen and faced the most evil forces in the world. I hope that young people who see this memorial are inspired. Whether they choose to pursue a career in the military or take on public service closer to home, this event shows young people that they have the potential and power to change the world.”

Deputy Mayor of Labor Rich Lazer and Superior Court Judge Dan McCaffery were present at the ceremony. Judge McCaffery served in the United States Army, First Cavalry Division from 1983 through 1986 and in the United States Army Reserve, 304th Civil Affairs Unit from 1986 to 1988. “This is one of the most motivating and moving events I have witnessed. It’s been 75 years since WWII and yet these men are still inspirational to the neighborhood because any kid looking at this can say, if they did it, I can, too.”

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

WWII Veteran

CHARLIE LEUZZI Philly

efore the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, there was the Battle of Hürtgen Forest in July 1944. More than 33,000 American and German lives were lost. It was a site of astounding heroism and pointless catastrophe. Americans were on German soil in a German forest surrounded by German soldiers who had a string of defensive positions in the form of concrete bunkers, barbed wire, minefields and tank obstacles – all part of Germany’s defensive Siegfried Line. Many of them had fought in the forests of Russia and Finland. The Americans had no such experience and did not initially understand the nuance of combat in forests. Soldiers called it `the Death Factory.’ It lasted 266 days. Yet, the Battle of  Hürtgen Forest is largely forgotten. It was the longest battle on German ground during World War II and is the longest single battle the U.S. Army ever fought. Some call this battle a blunder of the U.S. Military that was downplayed by the government. Charlie Leuzzi, who recently turned 100, was just 23-years-old when he was drafted. “I had to drop out of Southern [High School] at 16 to help with the family finances,” Charlie recalls. “I was happy at my job,” he says of the Wrigley’s Nuts factory where he was working when Uncle Sam called him to

by MARIA MERLINO serve. He headed to Arizona for Basic Training and then to Ireland where he trained for the Invasion of Europe. Fresh from training in Ireland, his division, the 8th Infantry D+28 deployed to Europe as the second wave to fight against the Axis. They landed on Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, on the 4th of July. Three days later, Leuzzi was in combat. “We were having a good time in Ireland when the word came out, ‘All Aboard!’ Twenty-eight days after the invasion, I was fighting the Germans.” Leuzzi was a machine-gunner who, in just nine months, rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. “I always liked to be the boss,” he chuckles. The first time he was wounded, “not so bad,” but the second time it happened, in April 1945, he sustained multiple shrapnel wounds to his leg. He was knocked out and woke up in a makeshift hospital. Leuzzi was awarded many medals including four Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts and the Marksmanship Badge for his bravery in combat. There were soldiers who, when they arrived home, had a hard time coping with what they saw in the war. Many of them never spoke of it. When Leuzzi came home to South Philadelphia, he, too, pushed the battle to the back of his mind. All he wanted to do was get back to work. He started a job at After Six Formal Wear in 1949 and stayed there for 45

years, eventually becoming a supervisor and retiring at the age of 74. On June 4th, 1949, Leuzzi married Marie (Salice). They soon will be celebrating their 71st anniversary with their three daughters, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Just three short years ago, at the age of 97, Leuzzi received an honorary high school diploma from South Philadelphia High School, where he is a Lifetime Honorary Alumni. A stickler for tradition, he keeps himself busy by visiting the Penrose Diner every Sunday morning for breakfast with his five grandchildren – a ritual he started when they were very young. Another tradition he keeps up with is his annual visit to the Atlantic City Air Show with his daughter Debbie. Watching the fighter jets prompts him to retell the story of witnessing the first jet plane take flight in Germany. The scent of the salty Atlantic also reminds him of his newfound pastime – trips to the casino to play a game of craps. He says he needed a new hobby since they closed the golf course at nearby FDR Park where he spent every day on the greens. Charlie Leuzzi is truly loved by his family and friends. His upbeat personality leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets. At the age of 100, he certainly has plenty of advice to offer this new generation. “Be nice to all the people. Have a sense of humor and fairness. Keep your friendships. Be yourself and be friendly.” PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 31

PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE

T Geoffrey in Baghdad, 2008, alongside two Sheikhs he worked with during his time there.

AT OUR SERVICE Philly

Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran continues to preserve liberty through his Defense Logistics Agency employment by JOSEPH MYERS

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

hroughout his 38 years as a global citizen, and particularly during his 15-month deployment as an Army Officer in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the United States Army’s 4th Brigade of the 10th Mountain Division, Geoffrey Dominessy has nurtured a deep and sincere appreciation for unit camaraderie and selfless esprit de corps. Such devotion has proven beneficial every step of his journey and serves the Fishtown resident in his duties with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support Construction and Equipment supply chain. “There are so many challenging operations undertaken by our men and women in uniform at home and around the world. We as an agency successfully face the daily challenge of supporting the warfighter head-on,” the contracting officer says of the confidence and competence with which his Northeast Philadelphia-situated subordinate command of the DLA manages the combat logistics support supply chains of construction & equipment, subsistence, industrial hardware, clothing & textiles and medical supplies. “I find it absolutely motivational to to see firsthand every day that I’m contributing with my teammates in a real way to the success of something much greater than I am as an individual.” His daily tasks and those of his peers are driven toward providing timely and efficient logistical support to the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard military branches, among others, and further in Dominessy, a passion for lifelong learning and pursuit of personal betterment. Rather than being something to build his ego, the latter functions as a way to provide motivation to step outside of idle comfort zones and try to bring positive results to demanding situations. “I believe we all have a mission or cause to serve,” he says. “They could be grand or small but everything involves striving to enhance what’s come before us. For those of us, then, who work for the DLA, whether as combat vets or civilians, that means fostering an even deeper appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities of this great nation and helping to see that nothing stops people from experiencing it and passing it along to those in need.” Dominessy’s service roots stem from his father Larry, a former Army Officer, Peace Corps volunteer and diplomat for the U.S. Agency for International Development. He credits his upbringing in overseas U.S. diplomatic communities in Cameroon, Burundi, and Yemen for providing him with an advanced appreciation of selfless service to one’s nation. He values that people in the United States, one of many countries he has called home, respect and support the worldwide endeavors that our military and its men and women implement each day. “In my position at the DLA, I feel fulfilled because something I end up securing for a customer unit could go a long way in supporting someone’s mission accomplishment, which, in turn, could be tasked to further help a vast number of people in need,” Dominessy says. “No matter what our titles are, though, DLA employees and our contemporaries on the front line pride ourselves on fighting for and preserving something that can be easy to take for granted -- freedom and our way of life. Globally, it’s often in jeopardy and any threat against it, no matter where it’s happening, needs and will receive our undivided and mission-driven attention.” PRH

gohomephilly.com

BUSINESS

SPBA Honors

Barbara Ricci Person of the Year

Talia RoTa PhoTogRaPhy

photos by ANDREW ANDREOZZI

@taltography 267.240.5302

THE SOUTH PHILADELPHIA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION hosted its annual Person of the Year Banquet on March 10th at Rivers Casino Philadelphia to honor Barbara Ricci. Ricci, a Philadelphia public school teacher for 44 years, is currently President of the South Philadelphia Lion’s Club. The Person of the Year Banquet is SPBA’s primary fundraiser, held annually to support its scholarship fund for deserving South Philadelphia students. SPBA, the oldest chartered business association in the City, also raises funds through gifts and donations provided by local businesses. It has been serving the local community since its incorporation on October 15,1897, and works to promote and support local businesses.

20th St. & Moyamensing Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19145

Weddings Funeral Lunches and more!

215-852-4822 GaldosCaters.com

Philly

FBI

30 years experience serving Philadelphia & South Jersey

Frank Fioravanti Termite Specialist 215-768-1804 FrankieBugs707@gmail.com

“We Rid Your Pests So You Can Rest”

Pest Control Frankie Bugs, He’s the Best!

SEE THIS AD? Of course you do. And so do thousands of readers throughout the region and across the country. Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming back. PRH Advertisers get results.

April / May / June 2020

Join Our Business Network Today. Rates as low as $250. 215.462.9777 Info@gohomephilly.com

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 33

PRHSALUTE TO SERVICE

Neighbors unite for a Positive Outcome by Bob Wagner

Philly

Jody & granddaughter Sophia

ike communities throughout the City, South Philadelphians have always taken pride in their neighborhood. One of the main sources of that pride is a sense of safety. But following a rash of armed robberies, home invasions and gun violence in every corner of the city, residents decided it was time to unite in search of solutions. At a recent town hall meeting held at Saint Monica, hundreds of residents and business owners packed the auditorium for a chance to voice their concerns to

BUSINESS

city and law enforcement officials including Councilmen Kenyatta Johnson and Mark Squilla; State Rep Maria Donatucci; Police Captain Lou Campione and numerous heads of neighborhood organizations. Leading the charge is local resident Jody Della Barba, who has been active in South Philly politics and civic issues for many years. She knows most of the movers and shakers in City Hall and has made the concerns of her community a top priority. Jody recently sat down with PRH to give us an update. Q: What has the city done or promised to do in regard to

fighting this crime wave that is occurring in South Philly? Our district police are doing everything they can to make neighbors feel safer. There are more regular patrols in the area and they are participating in helping interested residents set up a stronger town watch presence. In addition, the captain and community relations officer are always there when the community needs them. In addition, Councilman Johnson has set up hearings on gun violence and has taken part in neighborhood crime walks. Q: What projects are currently ongoing? Right now, we are at a standstill because of the coronavirus pandemic.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Q: What can we as citizens do to help the police? There are a number of suggestions that we are sharing with neighbors during these challenging times: Sign up to coordinate your own town watch or join an existing one. Remind your neighbors to keep their lights on in front of their houses and in back. Keep in contact with neighbors, especially the elderly. Make sure you lock your house and car doors. Be vigilant and don’t walk outside alone after dark. With the current COVID19 social distancing situation, it’s important to connect with family and friends via phone, Facetime or social media. Follow the Social Distancing guidelines as they are reported: Stay Inside. Wash Your Hands. Stay connected to family and friends by phone or social media. If you see something, call 911 and report it! The police will deploy more officers to neighborhoods based on the call volume.

Q: Who is leading the effort to organize town watches? The local police are leading this effort. We meet with them directly for updates and recommendations. Many local residents are involved in the town watch. Though life has changed for us and for people around the world as a result of COVID-19, keeping ourselves and our families safe is always a priority. It is important to keep current with the ongoing recommendations from city, state and federal officials on ways to contain the coronavirus outbreak in our community. As we “shelter in place,” avoiding unnecessary contact with individuals – especially large groups – many of these suggestions for keeping our neighborhoods safe still apply. Most importantly, report any suspicious activity or crimes to the police by calling 911. For updates and information about COVID-19, please visit the City’s homepage at phila.gov/covid-19. PRH

gohomephilly.com

South Philadelphia Benevolent Society is on a Mission Our Mission: The South Philadelphia Benevolent Society was established in order to help South Philadelphians that have needs, financial burdens and hardships of many kinds. With the recent outbreak of Covid-19, our beloved seniors and disabled have difficulty getting out to food shop due to the inherent risks

involved with contracting the virus. As a result of this emergency circumstance, the SPBS will be donating staple food products (care packages) to our beloved seniors and those with disabilities and suffering financial hardships. Thank you from the Board of South Philadelphia Benevolent Society, Inc.

Vincent DeFino Jody DellaBarba Fred Santarelli SPBS2020@gmail.com Hundreds of grocery packages were delivered to local neighbors thanks to the generosity of Chefsmart (Anthony Gatta), Jetro, field directors Fred Pedigrossi and Rose DeFino, volunteer drivers and distributors on the front lines and individual contributors. If you would like to make a donation, mail your check payable to

South Philadelphia Benevolent Society

2508 S.18th Street Philadelphia, PA 19145 SPBS is a pending 501c3 charitable organization

ANNUAL HEALTH EXPO 2020 Jefferson Methodist Hospital (Broad Street Entrance) Saturday, June 6 | 9 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1 p.m. FREE Health Screenings:

Family Fun and More:

Cholesterol and glucose, blood pressure and stroke, osteoporosis heel scans and mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women sponsored by the Linda Creed Foundation.

Food and refreshments at no cost to attendees, cartoon guests, face painting, balloon artist AND MORE!

FREE Health Information and Consultations:

Registration is only required for mammograms and osteoporosis heel scans.

Stop by our information booths for consultations with experts in their fields including nutrition counseling, diabetes education, OB/GYN, primary care, respiratory care services, menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and more!

Call 215-952-9169.

JeffersonHealth.org/HealthExpo

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 35

REAL

ESTATE

JEANNE POLIZZI Coldwell Banker Preferred

by BRENDA HILLEGAS eet the realtor. Jeanne Polizzi has more than 15 years of experience in buying and selling real estate throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. Below, she talks about her career (including some acting!), her top buying/selling tips and why she loves her neighborhood.

Q: You were an actress in your “old life.” Tell us about your credits.

R E A L E S TAT E

A: I graduated from Fordham University and pursued my dream of being on Broadway. I never made it onto the Broadway stage but I did perform some fun roles on soap operas including Search For Tomorrow, as well as commercials and regional stages. One of my favorite roles was playing Ben Franklin‘s French lover in a Discovery Channel story about his life, shot in Philly. Q: We hear you were in a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup commercial! A: You can find it on YouTube. Who sits in a movie theater watching a scary film whilst eating from a jar of peanut butter?!

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Q: Why are you a realtor now? A: Having spent my entire life in sales/marketing related jobs, including Philly companies like ARAMARK and Korman Communities, I crossed over into self employment and have been running my own real estate practice for the last 15 years. I love developing relationships with people and being a problem-solver; earning trust and loyalty through hard work, honesty and dedication. I try to be a mentor to others who are just starting out because I was fortunate enough to have a great mentor. All of my sales experiences have led me to where I am now. Q: Tell us about the first house you sold. A: It was a rehab on Cedar Street in Fishtown in 2005, which is ironic since both my mother and my husband

gohomephilly.com

(decades later) were born on Cedar Street in Port Richmond. It was the dawning of Fishtown as we know it today. Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to sell? A: All realtors are not created equal! Interview at least two before signing anything because this process can be an “emotionally charged” one and you will be working with that person for a while. Your agent has to GET YOU! You don’t want an agent that’s putting in minimum effort. Your home is your most valuable asset. You need an agent who’s creative, aggressive and won’t stop communicating and negotiating until you reach the settlement table! Also, in this HGTV era, the decor and cosmetics are critically important. My staging/decorating expertise puts me in a position to go room by room and make recommendations for marketing photos (professional photography is part of my service). I provide advice on how you can spend very little or no money, just by giving a room the right fresh coat of paint and changing the placement of furniture or artwork to make your space more appealing. My staging consultation is free. It takes extra time but it’s a critical step in getting you more money for your home. Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to buy soon? A: It can be overwhelming and complicated. Hire a full-time, experienced realtor, not just a real estate agent. Realtors are required to abide by a Realtor Code of Ethics, a higher code of ethics, which includes putting the client’s interest above their own. Also, as a buyer, most of the time you are not required to pay your buyers agent’s commission as part of your closing costs, (it comes out of seller proceeds), so yet another reason to get yourself a qualified, full-time buyers agent who’s a great negotiator, to represent YOUR interests, not the seller. Q: You moved to South Philly. What do you love about your neighborhood? A: I’ve lived in many neighborhoods in/around Philly. When my husband Tom retired from UPS after 30 years, we decided to buy in Pennsport and found a great home with our special needs son Joseph (my other kids, Ally and Cole, live in Brooklyn). I love Gooey Looie’s for cheesesteaks, Rocco‘s for sausage and peppers, Pesto Restaurant for everything, elephant ears at Termini’s and beignets at Artisan Boulangerie. My husband loves Esposito’s, Giordano’s, Talutto’s and Lombardi‘s Prime Meats. As lifelong Eagles season ticket holders and concert lovers, we love being close to the stadiums. We have many parks near us, as well. But the best thing about South Philly is the people! So down to earth and no BS! We are very involved in the special needs community in South Philly - an amazing group of people. Q: What would you tell someone who is considering moving to Philly? A: Having lived in both NYC and London, I can say that Philly has some of the best theater and arts scenes. We’ve got great celebrations and parades (love the Mummers!). This city is walkable. Its unique set of neighborhoods make Philadelphia a colorful and interesting place without being too overwhelming. Q: Why do you consider yourself the “go-to girl” for buying and selling real estate? A: I do not rely on a team. When you hire me, you get me from the very first appointment (staging consultation) to the settlement table. I do my own showings and open houses; I don’t send an inexperienced agent. I have unlimited energy and I’m a huge communicator so you know what’s going on every step of the way. My glass is always half full! Whether you’re buying or selling, I’m all about personal touch and I love my job. Jeanne Polizzi, Coldwell Banker Preferred, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

PERSONALIZED SERVICE. POWERFUL RESULTS. 15 years of experience as a full time realtor working throughout the Philly area with a network of incredible clients. Most of my business is “Word of Mouth” from past very satisfied clients. My “Hands On” approach sets me apart - taking fewer clients at a time ensures that you have my undivided attention throughout the entire Buying and Selling process. EIGHT Time Winner “Five Star Professional” as seen in Philadelphia Magazine.

Jeanne Polizzi REALTOR ®, SRS

Certified Relocation Specialist International Presidents Elite Club

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 37

REAL

ESTATE OCEAN FRONT CONDO IN VENTNOR 5000 Boardwalk #910

Not Your Nona’s Wallpaper

What a view from this 700 S.F. renovated Studio apartment. Perfect for weekends at the shore. Partially furnished. Pool & Gym. $174,900

Robin Mitchell robin.mitchell@foxroach.com Office: 609-822-4200 Cell: 215-266-8334

new

Patterns & Textures courtesy of FETTERMAN DESIGN GROUP

PROFESSIONAL

PAINTING OF DISTINCTION INTERIOR • EXTERIOR Office: 267-930-3420 w w w . fac e b o o k . co m / faux pa i n t

paintingofdistinction@comcast.net

Faux Finish Specialist

Joe LaFiora

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

fettermandesigngroup.com

t is a known fact that things of yesteryear usually make a comeback, especially in fashion and design. Styles and colors return with an elevated dimension. Wallpaper, for example, is an interior design component that has evolved over the years. It is now available in an array of beautiful colors, textures, designs and patterns, providing yet another design element to express one’s creativity and vision. Wallpaper can transform a room into another stylistic dimension, thereby creating a finished, high-end look. Wallpaper offers a multitude of advantages. It is easy to clean, making it simple to maintain. It protects your walls and hides imperfections. It has a quality of illusion, which can add depth to a narrow room and warmth to a cold space. If properly maintained, it can last up to 15 years, saving you money in the long run. Wallpaper comes in a variety of materials, which can make the selec-

tion process quite interesting. I often tell my clients that if they are hesitant to use wallpaper and are not ready to take the plunge, start small. Consider decorating a compact space like a half bath or the mudroom, where you can have fun and experiment. Or use wallpaper on one wall in a room to create a focal point – like the wall behind your bed in the master suite. Similar to selecting the perfect paint, choosing the right wallpaper can be overwhelming. In order to make the right choice, be sure to consider the lighting, the finishes and the furnishings in the room. Need help picking the perfect pattern and texture for your next project? Give Fetterman Design Group a call. 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. gohomephilly.com

THE PHILLYDREAM DIFFERENCE Let us help you find your Dream Home! Mario Tropea Jr. & the Dream Team

Serving the Philadelphia Real Estate Market for 40 years We understand the market. That is why most of our business comes from referrals and repeat customers whose trust we have earned. Our agents live in the same communities where we do business. This is our home. We want it to be yours, too. It is our privilege to share our knowledge with you.

honesty. Buying

integrity. Selling

Rental Properties

Property Management

respect. Full-Service Serving Realty Services Philadelphia & New Jersey

Keller Williams Realty

1601 W. Oregon Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19145 Office: 215.389.2222 | Mobile: 215.783.3698 | mariocentercity@gmail.com

Patrick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Douherty, Obe Caldas, Rich Tenaglia, Dorette, John Tenaglia, Dawn, Anthony Giacobetti & Anthony Acito

CONTRACTORS SPOTLIGHT

Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Custom Stairs Treasuring Traditions

photos by ANDREW ANDREOZZI

John Tenaglia and crew love to honor traditions. Not only the fine craftsmanship of turning wood into the exquisite handcrafted railings and doors of their ancestry, but a few other old-world rituals, as well. Like the making of award-winning wine and homemade delicacies like soppresata and capicola. He is an opera singer (Baritone) specializing in the Italian Verismo Operas and has shared the stage with his wife Joan (Soprano) and his late brother Frank (Tenor) for numerous opera companies both locally and abroad. He and his team continue to pass down old-world traditions they learned from their parents and grandparents. A tribute to the diversity of cultures and generations of families that opened the doors to the futures we continue to cherish. ROWHOME MAGAZINE April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

THE RIGHT PLACE. RIGHT IN THE HEART OF PACKER PARK.

Brand New 3-story Townhomes with Garages starting at $475,900 Invest in a unique and luxurious lifestyle in Packer Park, one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods, with its own fusion of style, culture and personality. Sports and entertainment venues are nearby, and great restaurants and FDR Park are right around the corner.

New Phase Now Open!

Where else will you get this much space, your own private driveway, 9’ ceilings, a private balcony, a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel GE® appliances, hardwood floors, and great views of the Philadelphia skyline?

Ask About Quick Delivery Homes!

10-YEAR TAX ABATEMENT VA AND FHA APPROVED!

SALES CENTER LOCATION: 2300 Hartranft Street Philadelphia, PA 19145

215.339.5390 | SienaPlace.com Sales@SienaPlace.com

DECORATED MODELS OPEN: Mon, Thurs thru Sat: 11 AM-5 PM Sunday: 12-5 PM

Broker cooperation is warmly invited and appreciated.

All prices and features subject to change without notice. Please see sales associate for details.

April / May / June 2020

LIKE & FOLLOW US

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 41

PRHTIPS FROM THE PROS

NEW OPTION TO REDUCE STUDENT LOAN DEBT Posh Painting by Rita llc.

Rita Coccia Trombetta 856-986-0252

Specializing in interior and exterior painting

Newly passed tax law could benefit many Courtesy of the CPA Firm of DAVID M. SPITZBERG c pa f o r b u s i n e s s . c o m

DEEP INSIDE LEGISLATION PASSED IN LATE 2019, is a provision that broadens the acceptable use of 529 college savings plan funds.

Background

There are 529 savings plans available to set aside after-tax funds to pay for college and K through 12 education expenses. As long as the funds are used to pay for qualified expenses, any earnings or interest in the savings plan are tax-free. Any unused earnings on funds are subject to a penalty and income tax.

The New Rule

Superior Physical Therapy delivers the highest level of professional care in a compassionate and friendly environment. 2547 S. Broad St., Phildelphia, PA 19148 Phone: (215) 462-3303 | Fax: (215) 462-3304

To help students financially after graduation, leftover money in a 529 plan may now be used to pay off student loans. There is a $10,000 lifetime limit for the 529 plan’s beneficiary and each of their siblings. For example, parents who have 4 kids can take a $10,000 distribution from the 529 plan to pay student loans for each of their children, for a total of $40,000.

Ideas to Use this New Rule The graduation gift If your student has access to low interest loans, you may wish to take out the loan now, in case your 529 plan funds are not enough to fund all four years of college. Then when your student graduates, you can use any excess to reduce

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

the loan balances. What a graduation gift!

The planning tool Suppose parents or grandparents have two students who can use 529 funds. Now you have two choices: pay down debt or transfer funds to another beneficiary. With this new rule, you can keep excess funds in place from the first student. Then if need be, the excess funds can be used to transfer to the other student who is a qualified beneficiary. When the students are finished with school, any excess funds can be used to pay down loans for both students.

Flexibility Many 529 plan holders would like to take advantage of using the funds to help pay for K through 12 expenses. With this extra use flexibility, it may make sense to use the funds early in your student’s education. Given the recent changes in 529 college savings plans, it makes a lot of sense to explore your options and either consider setting up an account or developing a plan for best uses of the funds in your accounts. For more information on this and any taxrelated updates and information, contact David M. Spitzberg, CPA, at CPAforBusiness.com. David Spitzberg CPA is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

gohomephilly.com

& RDER LAWO

RENAISSANCE ESTATES • Totally Customize your New Home • Full 10 Year Tax Abatement • 3200+ Sq Ft. • 2-Car Garage

A MESSAGE FROM

• 5 - Stop Elevator Included • Lower Level & Roof Deck w/ 4 floors of luxury in between

DePasquale Law Offices & Frank C. DePasquale, Jr., Esq

• Reserve your lot now & start Customizing your new home today! • SUBZERO / WOLF Appliances • PORCELANOSA Cabinets, Flooring, Tile • KOHLER fixtures throughout .... and so much more

MODEL- MID APRIL MOVE IN - SUMMER 2020

Contact:

BCAPOZZI@KW.COM

215-551-5100

3320 S. 20th St by FRANK C. DEPASQUALE JR., ESQUIRE

To our friends, clients and their families: We are living in a scary time with our health and the health of our loved ones at risk. There is no better place to be in this fight than right here in our neighborhood. It is heartwarming to see firsthand how so many businesses and people have stepped up and come together to support our first responders and our healthcare workers. For our part, we have donated to local organizations that are bringing food and other support to our healthcare workers and our police and fire departments. We also have provided food trays to the ICU and ER departments of the Methodist Hospital. My office sits across from the hospital. We know and represent so many of those fearless heroes. I watch with pride as they report to work every day. Our office is working remotely and responding to emails and phone messages. If you need us, please email or leave a message. Please stay safe, well and respect the social distancing so that we can limit and beat this terrible virus.

River to River. One Neighborhood. This couldn’t be more true! Once again, Frank DePasquale has been recognized by his peers as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for 2020. 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

Paul Stolfo, Director • Marianne Stolfo, Director

The Tradition Continues the Fourth Generation

The Stolfo

Funeral Home Where Everyone is Treated Like Family 2536 So. Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.7376 April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 43

PRHTIPS FROM THE PROS

CHOKING Know the Signs, Know How to Help courtesy of

RON RABENA

Chief Administrative Officer, Allied Universal www.aus.com

Unless you are the parent of small children, it may come as a surprise that choking is the fourth leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States. The reality is that choking can happen anywhere to anyone—at school, at work or in public places. Choking occurs when the flow of air into the lungs is blocked, preventing one from breathing and inhibiting blood flow to the brain. Lasting injuries or death from suffocation can result. However, with proper preparation, you can help prevent yourself or someone else from choking. Below are some helpful guidelines to help prevent or reduce risk during a choking incident.

❚W atch for Signs of Choking

Hands clutching the throat. The most universal and obvious sign of choking, an individual wrapping his or her hands tightly around the throat signifies that breathing is obstructed by an object lodged in the air passageway. Wheezing or difficulty breathing/talking. If the individual is wheezing or has difficulty talking or coughing, his or her windpipe may be partially blocked. Inability to talk or cough. This suggests the windpipe may be completely blocked and the individual is in critical danger. Change of color in the hands or face. A change in color to an individual’s skin suggests a cutoff of blood circulation. At this stage, brain damage is possible. The individual needs urgent help. Loss of consciousness. This is the most drastic stage of choking, when brain damage is most probable. Immediate action is necessary to prevent death.

❚G ive Immediate Care

Ask someone to call 911 immediately. If you are alone, administer first aid as described below for two minutes before pausing to call 911. Experienced medical professionals can help the individual if you are unable to successfully administer first aid. Forcefully deliver multiple back pats between the individual’s shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. This motion is especially effective when the object is only causing a partial blockage.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Should back blows fail to dislodge the object, wrap your hands firmly around the individual’s waist and lock your hands into a fist. If knowledgeable, begin the Heimlich Maneuver or abdominal thrusts by shoving your hands upward into the abdominal area. If the Heimlich Maneuver fails and the individual loses consciousness, perform CPR with chest compressions until medical help arrives.

❚T ake Action While Choking Alone

Form a tight fist with both hands and forcefully thrust your fist into your upper abdomen. Repeat this until the object is dislodged. If this fails, get onto your hands and knees, jam your fist into your upper abdomen and fall onto your stomach. This may create more pressure, setting the object free.

❚G ive Special Attention to Children and Babies

Sit down and turn the baby over as soon as you notice he or she is unable to cry or cough. Holding the child over your knees, making sure the head is lower than the body, keep his mouth open with your fingers while you use the other hand to firmly deliver back blows as described above. Do chest thrusts if the back blows fail to dislodge the blockage. Turn the child over onto your forearm and, still keeping his head lower than his body, push firmly into the chest using the pads of your fingers. Children, especially infants, are most susceptible to choking and require constant monitoring while eating. Cut their food into smaller pieces and avoid feeding them hard candies to keep their smaller windpipes clear.

❚K eep small toys and other objects away from babies and toddlers. What else can you do? Get certified in CPR and First Aid. This simple, one-time precaution will equip you to handle choking situations correctly and confidently. Ron Rabena, Allied Universal, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network. gohomephilly.com

Brighten stained teeth with whitening, bonding or veneers ❱❱ Repair worn or broken teeth with crowns or veneers ❱❱ Restore teeth with strong tooth colored fillings ❱❱ Replace missing teeth with a dental bridge ❱❱ Permanently replace missing teeth with dental implants Voted Top Dentists in South Philadelphia Keeping you smiling for over 30 years

Call t patie oday — nts w n elcomew e!

FREE

con

cosmsultation etic p roceds for ures

Drs. Steven A. Moskowitz and Kenneth S. Donahue invite you to make an appointment for a whiter, healthier smile.

1517 Packer Ave, Philadelphia (Across from Chickie’s & Pete’s) 215.462.2424

PRHHEALTH

love i is in the Air

Or isn’t it?

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

by DR. RICHARD DITTRICH

n the spring, a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love wrote poet Albert Tennyson. It is spring and love is in the air. Or isn’t it? According to Dr. Seuss, “You are only old once.” But that once can last a long time. And the symptoms of aging can be miserable. You remember when your mom was your age. Her face turned red from the neck up and she fanned herself constantly. The family survived by wearing winter coats indoors and piling on the blankets. Poor dad dealt with the cold. It was easier than provoking the devil that inhabited your mom’s body. Laughter changed to tears for no apparent reason. She misplaced her keys, her wallet, her credit cards. Sex became difficult and painful. Her gynecologist had a name for this craziness – menopause! And a cure – estrogen! A miracle drug made from horse urine – ewww! And some anti-depressants to cover the symptoms that estrogen missed. ➧

gohomephilly.com

Has It Gone From This…

Dad was changing, too. His belt disappeared under his belly bulge. He could fall asleep sitting upright in the middle of his favorite TV show. He called you by your sister’s name. The things he once enjoyed had fallen by the wayside, including his sexual desire. His doctor patted him on the back and pronounced his condition as “getting old.” No help for it! So mom was in menopause and dad was just old. Now you are feeling just like they did. How could this happen? You were young just yesterday! This is the 21st century! Our life expectancy is in the 80s. How can I be old at 40? Isn’t this “middle age?” UNBALANCED HORMONES Hormone levels in both men and women usually start to decline in our 40s, but for some people, it can begin as early as their 30s. That means living ONE-HALF our lives with low (or no) hormones or unbalanced hormones. Decreased or unbalanced hormones cause misery! Short-term memory fails. Little annoyances become big irritations. Mood swings make you (and your family) believe you are possessed. Body shape changes and that “middle bulge” refuses to budge. Your sex life declines or becomes non-existent. LOW T IN MEN In men, decreased levels of testosterone (low T) can cause fewer erections, poorer erections or no erections. Say goodbye to sexuality! Low T also contributes to that “beer belly,” making one more likely to develop insulin resistance and Type II Diabetes. Increased body mass increases the risk for coronary artery disease, high cholesterol and heart attacks. Low testosterone also has been linked with Alzheimer’s Disease.

HORMONAL CHANGES IN WOMEN Women think of low hormones as decreased estrogen levels but that is only part of it. The ovaries also produce testosterone and progesterone. All of these hormones decline when ovarian functions cease. Women become at risk for high cholesterol and heart attacks. Type II Diabetes becomes a risk as abdominal girth increases. Bone loss (osteoporosis) and all of the complications of fractures are another side effect of low hormones. Sexual intercourse becomes painful, difficult or even impossible.

To This?...

Are you suffering from Memory Loss Weight Gain Sleep Problems Decreased Sex Drive Inability to Concentrate Depressed Mood Have you considered

SO HOW DO YOU PREVENT MIDDLE AGE FROM BEING A HEALTH AND SEXUAL NIGHTMARE? Find a healthcare provider experienced in hormonal balance. If your current provider is not willing to listen to your symptoms, find another provider. If you are sent out the door with a prescription for antidepressants – run! Insist on blood work and a follow-up appointment to review the results with your provider. Hormone levels are reported in a “range.” Your lab results may be in the target “range” but you can still be symptomatic. Hormonal balancing is successful when you are feeling good and symptoms are relieved, not when you achieve a normal blood level. Are you “feeling old?” Dr. Richard Dittrich and his staff will be happy to talk with you about hormone balancing with pellets, a natural way to achieve the hormonal balance that is right for you. Both our Philadelphia and New Jersey offices are equipped to evaluate and treat hormone related symptoms. It IS spring! Let’s listen to Tennyson and turn your thoughts to love! PRH

BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy? Natural Therapies for Men and Women Dr. Richard Dittrich, Medical Director 1315 Wolf Street, Philadelphia PA, 19148

215.465.9600

w e l l n e s s c e n t e r pa . c o m

Serving the Community since 1937

Vincent C. Gangemi Jr., Supervisor Vincent C. Gangemi, Founder (1915-2005) James L. Guercio, Funeral Director (1954-2016) 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!

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

Handicapped Accessible

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 47

J E F F E R S O N H E A LT H I N S O U T H P H I L LY

Exceptional Care. Close to Home. Jefferson Methodist Hospital 2301 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148

Jefferson Health – Navy Yard 3 Crescent Drive Philadelphia, PA 19112

Allergy

OB/GYN

Audiology

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Cancer Care – Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Cardiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation

Orthopedics – Rothman Orthopaedic Institute – Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center

Dermatology

Pain Management

Ear, Nose and Throat

Pharmacy

Endocrinology

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Gastroenterology

Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy

Hematology

Primary Care

Jefferson Advanced Spine Center Lab

Pulmonology – Jane and Leonard Korman Respiratory Institute – Jefferson Health and National Jewish Health

Mammography

Radiology

Men’s Health Program

Sleep Medicine

Nephrology

Surgery

Neurology/Neurosurgery – Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience

Urology

Jefferson Continuing Care Program

Vascular and Wound Care Women’s Diagnostic Center

HOME OF SIDNEY KIMMEL MEDICAL COLLEGE

THE STADIUMS

One-of-a-kind health care for a one-of-a-kind neighborhood Our hometown teams play their hearts out right here in South Philly and Jefferson Health has that same commitment to being your local healthcare team. With convenient access to high-quality primary and specialty care, this one-of-a-kind neighborhood has the home-field advantage.

1-800-JEFF-NOW | JeffersonHealth.org/SouthPhilly

PRHHEALTH

Lovingsomeone with

Substance

DER

USE DISOR

d i r e c t i o n s t r e at m e n t . c o m

by Theresa Collins BA CADC Facility Director/Primary Therapist Directions Outpatient Centers

H E A LT H

The disease of addiction is commonly referred to as a “family disease.” This is mainly because someone who has the disease of addiction is not the only person affected. Whether you are someone who just found out that your loved one is struggling with substance use disorder or you have been loving someone struggling with substance use disorder for awhile, loving an addict or an alcoholic can be a challenging and lonely place. Although addiction and alcoholism are a disease and not a moral conflict, family members are hard pressed to find the same support as they would if their loved one was struggling with a different disease or medical problem. Identifying, finding resources, treating, supporting and continued connection are the keys to helping someone you love who struggles with substance use disorder. ➧

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

Identify How to identify that your loved one is struggling with substance use disorder Learning how to spot the signs and symptoms of the disease is the first crucial step in helping someone who is struggling with substance use disorder. There are many signs that family members can look for. Some of these signs include sudden financial problems, avoidance, sudden drop in grades, loss of employment, always tired, sleeping too much, not sleeping at all, unexplained wounds, sudden mood changes, loss of interest in leisure activities, and more. If you have a loved one who is experiencing unexplained issues that are mentioned above, they could be struggling with drugs or alcohol.

Finding Resources How to find the right resources for your loved one Treatment is not one size fits all. It is not a band aid that people go to for a short amount of time and come out cured. There are different levels of treatment, starting from the highest level of detoxification and typically ending with outpatient. It is so important for family members to do their research and ask professionals and even community members what some of the best resources available are for your loved one.

Treatment Sending your loved one off for treatment Whether you are dropping a loved one off for treatment for the first time or the 10th time, it is an emotional experience. One way to identify a good treatment center is transparency. Are they easy to get ahold of? Have you spoken to a therapist? Does the website match the actual location?

Was the transition from home to treatment easy? Did they answer every question you had? Do they offer family support and counseling? These are all questions you should be asking yourself when picking the right rehabilitation center.

Support Giving support to your loved one and finding support for yourself Family therapy is a key to recovery for someone struggling with substance use disorder. It is important to trust your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s therapist at this point to see when family therapy and introducing family into the treatment process is appropriate. It is important for the family to find their own support. Sometimes it is not appropriate to dive into family therapy immediately when someone is receiving treatment for substance use disorder. There are various support groups for family members such as Al-Anon, Nar-Anon and Alateen. Asking the treatment center for a list of meetings for family members in the area is a good start. Community churches or hospitals typically offer family groups.

Staying Connected Never Give Up Hope You can continue to love someone and stay connected to them on their own journey to recovery and learn the difference between love and enabling. Enabling is giving someone the means to do something. By continuing to enable someone with substance use disorder, you will help them continue to use drugs and/or alcohol. By staying connected to someone and loving someone (sometimes from afar), you can show them they are loved and have support. Directions Outpatient Centers is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

Contact: Directions Outpatient Centers 2300 S. Broad Street | 877.228.2073

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 51

PRHHEALTH

Quick Tips to ease back into exercising

Courtesy of Gerald Dufour Jr., MSPT Superior Physical Therapy

Now that “Spring has Sprung,” you might be thinking about getting back into an exercise routine but aren’t quite sure where to start. If you are not sure about your medical condition, see your primary care doctor and physical therapist to make sure you are healthy and safe enough to start exercising on our own. If you are ready to hit the road running, here are several quick tips to get you started on a healthy path to achieve your personal goals. Find your own reason to start.

H E A LT H

You took a longer look in the mirror and decided it’s time to lose some weight. Perhaps you have a specific medical reason why you need to start exercising again. Maybe you want to play intermural softball or get back into bowling with your friends. Maybe you simply want to look better and want to hit the gym again. Whatever your personal reason may be, find a reason, and start!

Schedule it and commit.

Getting back into exercise can be hard. There is always something happening. Family commitments, the kids’ activities, work obligations, social events, the holidays. There is always an excuse not to start. Make it a priority and schedule it into your day just like your other

appointments and obligations. You might be surprised how much “extra” time you actually have when you cut out a little social media.

Choose an activity that is fun and enjoyable.

The gym may not be for everyone. There are 100s of different types of physical activities that you can do. If you try to start exercising again and do something you don’t enjoy, you’re not going to stick with it. The goal is to increase your baseline activity and stay active on a long-term basis.

Make a SMART goal

(Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant to YOU, Time specific). Maybe you want to Walk/Run in a 5K event. You’ve done it in the past. You are passionate about this activity. You have three months to get ready. Whatever your goals, write them down so you see them and they act as a daily reminder.

Keep it basic.

If you’ve been away from an activity or the gym for a while, keep it simple. Choose compound exercises (big, full-body movements) that work large muscle groups and are functional rather than isolation type exercises (smaller movements that focus on one or two joints). For example, choose squatting or high step-ups rather than sitting on a machine and kicking your legs out against some resistance. Ideally, you want to perform a variety of activities. Do something that includes some cardio or endurance work, some strength or endurance training, and stretching or flexibility activities. Lastly, remember to warm up and cool down to decrease your risk of injury and DOMS (Delayed onset muscle soreness).

Start slow.

Keep your workouts to less than 60 minutes and make a commitment to 2-4 days per week. Unless you are a competitive athlete, there is no reason to spend every day in the gym for several hours. This will only lead to injuries and frustration.

Rest.

This doesn’t mean scrolling through Facebook for several hours or watching 2 hours of TV before going to bed. On your “rest days,” stay active. Walk your dog a little longer than usual. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park further

Superior Physical Therapy, Inc 2547 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.462.3303

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

away so you have to walk further. Play with your kids in the house or outside in the park. Stand up and sit down from your desk chair for several repetitions throughout your workday. Your back and neck will thank you for this.

Quality over quantity.

Focus on your form and feel your body. Listen to your body and pay attention to what you feel. If you want to build a skyscraper, you first need to build a solid foundation. Trying to do too much or doing the wrong activities for your body will only lead to injuries and frustration. Again, your goal is to enjoy yourself while staying active for the long-term.

Choose a good workout buddy.

Some people need extra motivation. Working out with a friend could be just the thing you need to help push you over the hump.

Proper nutrition and sleep is key.

Even if you’re doing everything right in the gym, without the proper nutrition, hydration and sleep, your body will break down and you will sustain injuries. “Feed the machine.” Remember, exercising should be fun and healthy for you. Stick to the basics and you should be able to enjoy a lifetime of healthy activities. Superior Physical Therapy is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network. gohomephilly.com

Real People Real Stories photo by Andrew Andreozzi

Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you. Walt Whitman We thought our nation’s first animal kingdom would make the perfect backdrop for our photo shoot. Every year, our spring issue is dedicated to friends and neighbors we know and love who have come face to face with some serious challenges. We call it Real People. Real Stories. These personal accounts motivate us, inspire us and comfort us. We piled into our UberXL. Me and Dawn, Nancy, Angel and her sister Julia. And a few umbrellas we held over our heads to keep

Angel Salerno

our hair from frizzing in the rain. Not the perfect conditions for a spring photo shoot but we were ready to weather the storm. Little did we know that our entire country and countries around the world were only days away from weathering an unprecedented storm named COVID-19. During this global healthcare emergency, we realize why our medical community is so vital to the human existence. This issue of Philadelphia RowHome

Wendy Hamilton

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. 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.

Nancy Hinkie

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 53

Real People Real Stories

NANCY HINKIE Son, All my Love, All my Life and Eternity

by Maria Merlino

n the year 2000, when Richie Hinkie was 19 years old, he got a tattoo over his heart that read, ‘Son, All my Love, All my Life and Eternity.’ “It was in my own handwriting,” his mother Nancy Hinkie says. “When he was a teenager in rehab, I would write to him all the time and that’s how I signed my letters. When they found him unconscious on the 600 block of Tree Street 18 years later, I believe the EMS responders saw that image and worked 21 minutes to revive him. He always carried a backpack with Narcan in it, but it was stolen.” Richie was taken to Pennsylvania Hospital, where sadly, he succumbed to his addiction. Surrounded by family and loved ones, his bereaved mother tried desperately to save someone else from suffering the profound loss of a loved one. She offered to donate her son’s organs but there were no local matches. Doctors explained that the only organ matches in the system were too far away for the organs to be viable once they arrived. Richie Hinkie died on May 12, 2018 – eight days after his 37th birthday. Not one to sugarcoat his addiction, Nancy said she did everything she could to help her son. “He started with behavioral problems around 13 years old. I jumped right on it and took him to Children’s Hospital for family and individual therapy,” she says. “I literally took him to 30 different places. I enrolled him in Teen Challenge - a Christian group for men - with a two-year program. In 1996, we moved to New Jersey to get him away from all the influences. I also sent him to Pittsburgh to Abraxas Family Services for at-risk youth. He got his GED there.” Nancy says she is grateful to Father

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

John Stabeno of Prodigal House in Sewell, NJ, who encouraged Richie to seek God’s help and get in touch with his spirituality. “Father John told me he was the most spiritual guy who ever entered the program.” He excelled in in-patient therapy and later became a youth counselor. Looking back, Richie had a great upbringing. But at 16, Hinkie caught him stealing and she took him to the police station. “I was never ashamed,” she says. “We had a problem and had to fix it. One thing he told me was, ‘Thank you for never enabling me. I can never blame you.’ It’s hard to have your son locked up. It’s tough love. They become unrecognizable. You can’t have them live with you.” On the day of his death, Richie had just been released from jail after a two-week stint and was clean. “I knew the fentanyl was going to kill him. He didn’t want to die. He was hard on himself and his self-esteem, but he fell into addiction. It’s an ugly thing.” It’s been two years and Nancy is still in pain. “Time doesn’t heal my wounds. The second year is even worse. I’m half in this world and half in the next. The grief has paralyzed my brain. It’s taken the joy. I can’t celebrate any holiday. My son comes to me in dreams and butterflies. He sends me signs. The solar butterfly in my yard never worked. After his funeral, it started to blink like crazy.” Nancy says she seeks comfort in an online bereaved mothers group. Losing a child brings incomparable grief. Not the kind you can talk about over a cup of coffee around the kitchen table. “I really thought we were going to win this.” Son, All my Love, All my Life and Eternity. PRH

gohomephilly.com

High Hopes by Dorette Rota Jackson

While scouting out the perfect spot for our cover shoot at the Zoo, we found our way into the KidsZooU exhibit. This cheerful indoor spot gives kids an up close and personal look at some friendly goats, sheep, chickens, ducks… and Nancy’s ant. As the rest of the group followed photographer Andrew outside, Nancy and Dawn lagged behind to marvel at the ant. Looming large above the exhibits, Nancy says the ant is a sign from her belated son Richie that he was there in spirit. I watched from the corner of my eye as they snapped photos, high-fived, hugged in jubilation. Neither of them seemed surprised that an ant greeted them inside KidsZooU. Richie was there. He was everywhere his mom went. Including our photo shoot at the Philadelphia Zoo. A few selfies later, we moseyed on our merry way to catch up with the rest of the group. “Why the ant?” I asked Nancy later that day. “I never liked bugs. Every time I saw one, I’d scream for my son to help me out. “Months after he died, I was cleaning the powder room. It was the middle of winter. That’s when I saw it. An ant. One ant. Ants travel in packs. Not this one. And who has ants in the freezing cold winter? The last thing I said to my son before he died was, ‘Send me signs.’ This was a sign. I knew he was with me.” Nancy said she laughed to herself knowing Richie sent her a bug as one of his signs. He had that kind of humor. “Fast forward to the month of May. Around Mother’s Day.

I was overwhelmed with grief. I couldn’t get myself together. Didn’t want to talk to anyone. See anyone. I left my bedroom to get tissues from the bathroom. That’s when I saw it. An ant. One ant.” And so the story goes. Everywhere she went, Nancy saw ants. Ant posters, ant birthday cards, ants on stamps. She even found a garden rock with the word “Faith” inscribed. And an ant walking along a flowered branch below it. “It was the only rock on the shelf. Who wants a garden rock with an ant on it? I’ve seen thousands of garden rocks. Never one with an ant. I knew it was from Richie. He’s saying, ‘Mom, keep the faith.’ I asked him for signs and he’s been delivering ever since. Richie is the absolute best.” If not for that left turn we made inside KidsZooU that day, we wouldn’t have seen the ant. But Nancy would have. It was her sign from heaven. She knew her son was with her. Encouraging her to tell her story, keep the faith, help others along the way. Because she is still his mother and she takes that role very seriously. It didn’t end when Richie entered another realm. It continues. And he is with her to guide her, comfort her, remind her that she has carried way more than her own weight in life. Like the ant, she nurtured, protected, led, followed. And continues to blaze the trail on earth that Richie guards from the sky. Why else would an ant loom so large above us on a rainy day at the zoo? Because we didn’t come to see the lions, that day. We came to see the strength. We came to feel the hope. PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 55

WENDY HAMILTON

Real People Real Stories

Hope Heals

“

by Jane Roser

ou never think it’s going to be you. You’re hearing it, but in your head, you’re thinking, ‘There’s some last bit of information I’m going to hear that’s going to make all this not be true.’ Then it sinks in when your doctor pauses and has nothing more to say. Then it’s real.” Currently the Chief Guest Engagement Officer at the Philadelphia Zoo, Wendy Hamilton left a hectic corporate job in the Spring of 2018 and decided to take a couple of months off to spend more time with her son. She wanted to take a breath, reconnect, enjoy the outdoors. Exactly six months later, she found it. “It was leaning on a vein, so I could see it,” Hamilton says. “If it hadn’t appeared this way, I wouldn’t have gone for screening when I did. With time, it only becomes worse and spreads.” Despite knowing the importance of annual mammograms, Hamilton said she “got busy” and delayed her appointment. “I’ll do it tomorrow, I’ll do it next week… you have to find those couple of hours and go. The earlier you catch this, the easier it can be to treat. If I had caught mine earlier, I might not have needed 16 months of treatment. But I’m grateful I found it when I did.” Hamilton was diagnosed with stage 2 invasive breast cancer and needed surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment. “I started with five months of chemo and lost all of my hair,” she says. “Then I had surgery, then radiation every weekday for a month.” Friends and family helped to keep her spirits up during this tumultuous time, which Hamilton spent concentrating on being a great mom and getting the treatment she needed. Hamilton said that it can be hard to put one foot in front of the other when going to the hospital is part of every week. “While treatment can be intense, never for one day did I feel sorry for myself,” she adds. “There are so many people in the same situation or worse. I’m one of the lucky ones and I never let myself forget that.” “We just made the best out of it,” Hamilton recalls. “My very last infusion was February 24th. I took framed photos of some chemo sessions for the nurses. It actually made me smile looking back through the pictures because we were always in there doing something goofy. We dressed up my IV stand with a jacket and hat. We had champagne one day. You have to make the best of it because it is no fun.” Hamilton had an outstanding team of doctors who she says are at the top of her list for “best humans ever.” She said they took the time to make sure she had all the information she needed about her treatment, new drugs,

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

decisions to be made and side effects to expect. Her Virtua/Penn medical team included her breast surgeon Dr. William Holaday, medical oncologist Dr. Rachel Levenbach, radiation oncologist Dr. Catherine Kim and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Alexander Au. Hamilton’s medical team recently gave her the “all clear” report and she is thrilled to be disease-free. On Mother’s Day Sunday, May 10th, Hamilton will join more than 10,000 others in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for the 2020 Susan G. Komen Philadelphia More Than Pink Walk. Komen serves more than 7.4 million people in 15 counties. Every dollar raised from this event is maximized to not only save lives, but to educate men and women to practice optimal breast health. Donations also fund research to develop cures for every type of breast cancer. “Because of my work with Komen, I’ve been able to attend a number of their wonderful events,” Hamilton says. “I recently attended a research dinner at Penn where four Penn physicians who had received Komen research grants reported on their research progress. They told us where they’re going with treatment and how it can change the future. It was so uplifting. To hear the kind of things they’re exploring and where the treatment is going, it makes you believe that we are going to put this thing in a dumpster within our lifetime.” Hamilton was involved with Komen through her previous job as a corporate sponsor. She attended some of their events and knew Philadelphia’s Komen CEO Elaine Grobman. “Elaine was one of the first people to reach out when she heard I was diagnosed,” Hamilton says. “When she asked me if I’d be interested in being a chair for the More Than Pink Walk, I said ‘Yes, absolutely.’ It used to be the Race For the Cure, but a few years ago, Komen National changed the name to open it up to more people. Changing it to a walk instead of a race [makes it more inclusive].” Men, women and families who have been affected by breast cancer convene for this annual event. Hamilton encourages everyone to participate by walking, donating or both. “I would walk around the globe to help them raise money to beat this thing,” she says. “The work they’re doing is helping to improve screening, shorten treatment time, lengthen lives and give families more time together. To me, that’s the value of the walk. I have had the privilege of seeing where the funds go and it is very, very hopeful.” For more information or to register and donate, go to https://runsignup.com/ Race/PA/Philadelphia/Komen5K PRH gohomephilly.com

Real People Real Stories

ANGEL SALERNO Never Give Up

by Dominique Verrecchio

ngel Salerno, 61, spent most of her life in South Philadelphia. When her mother died in 1999, she moved to Ventnor, NJ, to be closer to her daughter and granddaughter. She was a food and beverage manager at the Hilton until the casino closed in 2014. She loves her wife Karen, her family, her friends, the beach and traveling. Angel is also living with cancer. In 2014, she was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer, also known as Adenocarcinoma. Two months after the Hilton closed, she was having stomach pains while trying to quit smoking with e-cigarettes. A CAT scan soon revealed a nodule on her left lower lobe. A PET scan followed and so did the journey to save her life. “With the news… I was nervous, numb and scared. My wife went online to do research on the best medical facilities for lung cancer. I was in between University of Penn and Fox Chase. We went with Fox Chase. The best decision ever.” For the first six months after her diagnosis, Angel was depressed. “I didn’t want to move or do anything. I can’t just sit here and die… I realized that in order to fight this battle, I needed to change my thought process. It changed my view on the world as the petty shit didn’t matter anymore. I needed to be around people who were positive in my life. After the cancer diagnosis, I started to live a healthier and cleaner life. One day at a time.” For the first 15 months of her battle, Angel was getting an infusion of chemo every three weeks. “I was tired, could not hold my head up and when I started to feel a little better, my next treatment started again.” She asked her doctor if she could take a break. From there, she was monitored every three months and

her tumors remained stable. A year later, her tumors started to grow and she was placed on a chemo pill. “It was such a relief for me thinking I was going to be on the infusion for life. Now I’m on the chemo pill for life.” The doctor told Angel that there was no cure for her cancer and she will never be in remission. But that’s not stopping her. “I feel wonderful being on the pill. I don’t think about having cancer until I have to go back for scans. Not to say there aren’t minor setbacks, but you push on. I’ve been enjoying the beach, family, friends and some traveling. But most of all, my grandchildren.” Fox Chase was also a large support system for Angel. “My family and I did not handle the situation well. After the biopsy, I was told they could not remove anything since it moved to the lining of the lung.” She praises Dr. Stacey Su’s optimism, saying her compassion was “aces!” and she reassured Angel that everything was very small. “There is not enough that I can say about Fox Chase and the staff. They have gone and still go above and beyond. I feel like they are a part of my family after six years.” Angel would especially like to shout out her navigation nurse, Caryn Vadseth, who got her in before actually being diagnosed. She also wants to say thank you to her oncologist, Dr. Hossein Borghaei, “who is outstanding to me in any way,” and to nurse practitioner Kristen Kramer, “who is just the best!” There’s so much to look forward to, Angel says. She wants to be around to see her grandchildren get married, to be a great-grandma and to grow old with her wife. Her advice to anyone who may find themselves in a similar situation is “to never give up. Even when it seems bleak. Because, as the saying goes… you die once, you live every day. Be your own advocate. Do research on what is out there.” PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 57

PRHTHE MENU

Philly

TONY LUKE’S ANTHONY LUCIDONIO, SR. The one, the only, the original Tony Luke

by Maria Merlino photo by Andrew Andreozzi

Q: Where can our readers find Tony Luke’s?

Our only location is at Front and Oregon Avenue. It’s owned solely by me and my son Nicholas Lucidonio. Others have said they own it, but they don’t. We personally work Monday through Saturday and on Sunday, we’re on call. My phone is always on. If there is a problem, we both shoot down.

Q: How did Tony Luke’s get started?

In 1990, I bought 39 E. Oregon Avenue. I sat on it for two years before I started building and lined up all the permits. The only problem I had was that I was running out of money! When I went for a mortgage for the property and the building, I couldn’t get a mortgage unless I had insurance. And you can’t get insurance on an empty property, so I had to apply through the State.

Q: What neighborhood did you grow up in?

I’m South Philly born and raised. I grew up in St Nick’s Parish and went to school at St. Paul’s.

Q: What did you do before Tony Luke’s?

I used to have a gang of lunch trucks – 35 of them. I prepared all the food and did the cooking. Some recipes were from the fam-

ily. I even had a doughnut bakery upstairs at our commissary where all of our food is prepped. We made a lot of sandwiches and doughnuts. When the lunch truck business started to taper off, I figured maybe it’s time to look for a store and have something more stable.

Q: How important was the neighborhood in helping spread the word about Tony Luke’s through the years?

It’s very important. We do everything the old-fashioned way. We don’t cook our cutlets in the fryer; we have the grill top and cook them right on the grill. The only thing that goes in the fryer is the French fries. We bake our own bread every hour. I told my staff, even if it’s late at night, 11 o’clock, if you need bread, throw two dozen rolls in the oven. That oven is running all day long. I was tired of trying to guess how many rolls we were going to need, so I went out of my way and worked with Liscio’s Bakery. We get them par baked. We don’t pre-cook anything with the exception of the beef and pork, obviously. All we do is put it in its own juice and warm it up. Even the steaks and cutlets are cooked to order. If you come in the morning for a breakfast sandwich, it’s cooked fresh – made to order.

Q: What is the fan favorite at Tony Luke’s?

The steak is the leader and of course

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

the pork and cutlet Italian and cutlet parmigiana. Those are the three main items. Our chicken steak is made from the same breast of chicken that we use for our cutlets. Our customers wait for a freshly made sandwich every time they order.

Q: What is your favorite at Tony Luke’s?

I love the pork Italian. I love the cutlet. When I make it for myself, I put eggplant on it. I’m thinking about adding a cutlet with eggplant on the menu. I slice the eggplant, put it on the grill with Italian gravy like a parm but not soaked in it. It may be coming shortly as soon as the weather breaks. I need to name it as a special. I love eggplant parm, especially when it’s made fresh.

Q: What is your secret to success?

Work it hard until you get all the kinks out and then do what you’re supposed to do. Buy top quality; don’t second-guess or buy inferior.

Q: What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

It’s not so much the advice I got but I’ve always worked hard. I knew you needed hard work to make a business succeed. I worked at it very diligently. If somebody has a complaint, Nicholas or I will call personally and then I thank them for taking the time out to let me know. I want to know everything. If my staff is courteous, if our customers are happy with our food. The customers are our lifeline.

Q: How long have you been a member of RowHome Magazine’s business network?

Everything is fresh. We cut our own ribeye steaks. Our roast beef is a prime pea bottom. The pork is made from fresh ham. We don’t use the shoulder or butt. Everything is made here at the commissary. All deliveries come here. We inspect the product coming in. It’s where we roast our own beef and pork and process the cutlets.

Since Dawn and Dorette started the magazine! I was the first one that was interviewed in the first issue [April 2004]. Dawn used to work for me when I had Casa de Pasta at 26 E. Oregon Avenue. She was my bartender. I used to cook in there with Carmen Puccio. I never missed an ad. Every issue. They have done so much for local businesses. People can’t wait for the magazine. They love reading it!. PRH

Q: What advice do you have for entrepreneurs who want to take a shot at their own businesses?

The Original Tony Luke’s, 39 E. Oregon Avenue, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network. gohomephilly.com

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

PRHTHE MENU

JACK’S BAR + GRILL Serving Up Daily Specials & Late Night Bites

Rivers Casino Philadelphia’s Newest Restaurant Offers American Fare Images courtesy of RIVERS CASINO PHILADELPHIA

Rivers Casino Philadelphia’s $15 million investment in the property now includes its newest restaurant, Jack’s Bar + Grill. Philly’s new American-fare restaurant joins the all-new BetRivers Sportsbook, which opened late last year and adds to the casino’s eclectic food lineup. Jack’s features delectable bites, signature drinks and incredible views

of the Delaware River and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Later this year, the venue will offer entertainment, including outside during warmer months when the patio opens. From Philadelphia favorite Geno’s Steaks to fine dining at Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House, there’s something for everyone when you visit Rivers. Philly’s only

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

casino always has free parking, offers text-to-order menus for the sportsbook and poker room, and now has seven restaurants with a wide variety of dining choices. Here’s an overview of the food you and your friends can enjoy at Rivers Casino as we highlight just a few of the casino’s endless menu options.

gohomephilly.com

HUGO’S FROG BAR & CHOP HOUSE

JACK’S BAR + GRILL

Classic American fare with a unique twist With a delicious menu, incredible views and a lively atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to love at Jack’s. Jack’s is conveniently located next to the BetRivers Sportsbook and just steps from the gaming floor, as are all Rivers’ restaurants. Start off the week with Sunday brunch and close it with late-night bites. In between, you’ll find $5 happy hour specials featuring meatball parm and fresh breaded chicken parm shorties, cheese fries, and specialty cocktails like the Jack Frost. Guests can enjoy a selection of wine as well as a variety of canned and draft ales and IPAs, including Victory Cloud Walker and Goose Island.

Starters �� Signature Meatballs �� Brisket Quesadilla �� Cheesesteak Nachos �� Fresh Breaded Calamari �� Fried Mozzarella

Entrées �� Sizzlin’ Fajitas �� Chicken Parmesan �� Teriyaki Glazed Salmon �� Salt & Pepper

Serving full lunch and dinner menus daily Above-prime steaks, epic desserts and a neighborhood feel are just some ways to describe one of America’s best steakhouses. Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House offers Gibsons USDAcertified steaks and chops, plus fresh lobster tails, king crab legs, oysters and more. With an extensive wine list, waterfront views and live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays, Hugo’s marries a classic steakhouse with contemporary design. As a member of the renowned Gibsons Restaurant Group, Hugo’s is a cut above other restaurants as it was voted “Best Steakhouse” in Philly.

Fried Shrimp �� Fresh Homemade Pasta and Ravioli

Prime Steaks & Chops

Late Night Bites

�� “Philly Cut” Bonein Filet Mignon �� Porterhouse �� T-Bone

�� C lassic Burgers �� B risket Sandwich �� F ried Mozzarella �� C hicken Wings

Seafood

Desserts �� Homemade Cheesecake �� S outh Philly Cannoli

GENO’S STEAKS

�� Crab Stuffed Ravioli �� Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes �� P ecan Crusted Salmon

LOU’S PIZZA

Appetizers �� Bacon Wrapped Scallops �� Sautéed Frog Legs

Desserts �� Carrot Cake �� C hocolate Mousse Pie

MIAN

Authentic Asian cuisine Fully immerse yourself in a variety of flavors while enjoying a quick meal in a social setting at Mian. The restaurant features made-to-order meals, including thick, rich broths; fresh vegetable, seafood, beef and chicken dishes; and daily chef’s specials. You’ll find everything from housemade dim sum to splendid stir-fry, fried rice to lo mein, and clams to spring rolls.

Entrées

Dim Sum

�� General Tso’s Chicken �� Pepper Steak with Onions �� Beef with Broccoli

�� Shrimp & Pork Dumplings �� Barbecued Pork Bun �� Shu Mai

Chef’s Specials �� Beef Tenderloin Thai Basil Stir-Fry �� Lemongrass Pork Chops �� Crabmeat & Chinese Sausage Fried Rice

COFFEE SPOT

Soup & Noodles �� Shrimp & Pork Wonton or Dumpling Soup �� Pho Soup �� Singapore Mei Fun

THE MARKETPLACE

Philly’s most iconic cheesesteak

Pizza by the slice (and whole pies too!)

Proudly serving Starbucks coffee

Featuring Krispy Krunchy Chicken

This Philadelphia institution offers thinly sliced rib-eye steaks, melted cheese and oven-fresh baked bread inside Rivers Casino. Guests always have the option to order “wit or wit-out” delicately grilled onions. If you’re looking for a cool alternative, try a hearty hoagie with carefully selected fresh ingredients.

Lou’s Pizza offers piping-hot pies made with fresh ingredients and guests can enjoy pizza by the slice or a whole 20-inch pie. Aside from offering unique pizza options to order, such as buffalo chicken, cheesesteak, margherita and more, Lou’s also offers guests the option to create their own pie, such as barbecue chicken, meat lovers and more, with a large variety of toppings from which to choose.

The Coffee Spot, which proudly serves Starbucks coffee, delivers a variety of expertly roasted coffee products, fresh fruit smoothies and locally baked pastries. Coffee Spot offers the perfect pick-me-up coffees, handcrafted teas and Starbucks Refreshers.

The Marketplace serves up fresh ingredients, delightful flavors and unique combinations of your everyday favorites. Try a freshmade salad, all-beef Philly hotdogs, appetizers, soups and desserts. The Marketplace is the perfect place to enjoy a quick, casual bite.

The espresso and coffee menu includes

Menu includes

Menu includes �� Cheesesteak �� Hot Roast Pork �� Italian Hoagie

Pizza menu includes �� Plain & Pepperoni �� White �� Margherita

Reservations for Jack’s, Hugo’s and Mian can be made through OpenTable. For menus, restaurant hours and more information, please visit RiversCasinoPhiladelphia.com.

�� Breakfast Sandwiches �� Caffe Mocha �� Cappuccino �� Caramel Macchiato

�� Chicken Wings �� Frozen Mixers

Rivers Casino Philadelphia is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network. April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 61

PRHTHE MENU COURTESY OF LOMBARDI’S PRIME MEATS

LAMB CHOPS

SIZZLED WITH GARLIC l o m b a r d i m e at s . c o m

Philly INGREDIENTS ➜E ight 1/2-inch-thick lamb loin ➜3 tbsp. water chops, fatty tips trimmed ➜2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice ➜S alt & ground pepper, to taste ➜2 tbsp. minced parsley ➜P inch of thyme ➜P inch of crushed red pepper ➜3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil ➜1 0 small garlic cloves, halved DIRECTIONS Season the lamb with salt and pepper, sprinkle lightly with thyme. In a very large skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the lamb chops and garlic. Cook over moderately high heat until the chops are browned on the bottom (about 3 minutes). Turn the chops and garlic, cook until the chops are browned (about 2 minutes longer for medium meat). Transfer the chops to plates, leaving the garlic in the skillet. Add the water, lemon juice, parsley and crushed red pepper to the pan. Cook, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom, until sizzling (about 1 minute). Pour the garlic and pan sauce over the lamb chops and serve immediately. LOMBARDI’S PRIME MEATS IS A MEMBER OF THE PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE (PRH) BUSINESS NETWORK.

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine Suggested Wine Pairing courtesy of Vincent Novello Masicapofiorin $19 62

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

The Birthplace of Freedom

Still Has a King. 9th & Passyunk Avenue

PRHTHE MENU

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

LEMONS by JOHN NACCHIO

Zest for Life

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

“ A TOAST TO THE PAST WITH THE TASTE OF THE FUTURE

PEZONE CELLO

TRADITIONAL ITALIAN LIQUEUR WITH A ROW HOME GROWN FLAIR

TempTing TasTe for ValenTine’s Day: ChoColaTe sTrawberry Order today for the Holiday season! 267.374.7590 38 Jackson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145

Established 2017 Sal Sansone & Dan Pezzetti, Proprietors. Newest addition to the Pennsylvania Pour Collective at Reading Terminal Market: Pezone Cello!

Chill. Shake. Serve. Give it a shot. Any time of year.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

hen life gives you lemons, use them to make lemonade!” That age-old adage is repeated time and time again to encourage optimism in the face of adversity. But let’s step it up to a party level. “When life gives you lemons, take out the salt and the shot-glasses and fill them up with tequila!” Lemon – a love affair that never ends. It is found in a broad range of ingredients as a zesty addition to culinary delights in foods and beverages we consume. We apply lemon body creams, cleansers and shampoos to refresh and cleanse ourselves. Its aroma surrounds us with lemon air fresheners and antiseptically cleansed surfaces using the oil to preserve woods and leathers. If that’s not love, what is? The origin of the lemon is mysteriously unknown. It is related to the family of citron and bitter oranges. Lemons can be traced to Europe near southern Italy, likely traded from the Far East no later than the second century AD, during the time of Ancient Rome. The first substantial cultivation of lemons in Europe began in Genoa in the middle of the 15th century. The lemon was later introduced to the Americas in 1493 when

Christopher Columbus brought lemon seeds to Hispaniola on his voyages. In the 19th century, lemons were increasingly planted in Florida and California competing with Italy as the top producer. Now it’s Mexico, India and China. Lemons are still an essential part of Italian life. Celebrations are held throughout Italy to celebrate the lemon harvest in April and May. A popular lemon festival, Festa del Limone, is held annually in the town of Monterosso al Mare, one of the five towns of Cinque Terre in the northern region of Liguria. The whole town participates with village stalls stocked with various lemon-based products. Restaurants serve special lemoninspired menus, with lemon cakes and lemon marmalade being two of the most sought after specialties. Citrus species of all kinds – lemons, oranges, grapefruits, limes – are now among the most important fruit trees in the world. Long credited with a lengthy list of health benefits, its popularity has grown over time. The cultivation ancestry of citron and citrus can be traced through the archives of history, often thought to be more than 4,000 years. Give that lemon a squeeze and show the love. PRH gohomephilly.com

COURTESY OF JOHN NACCHIO

LEMON

TIRAMISU SHORTCAKE {NON-BAKE}

1805-07 Washington Ave Philly, PA 19146 215.546.2233

• BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • PIZZA • BRUNCH • LATE NIGHT Delivery • Eat-In • Take-Out OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

W W W. C H I C K S P H I L LY. C O M Large selection of CRAFT BEERS available for Dine In or Take Out. Signature Cocktails. Wine. Spirits. INGREDIENTS ➜2 cups heavy whip-

ping cream ➜1 1/4 cups powdered sugar ➜1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened (or Mascarpone) ➜1 can lemon fruit

pie filling (or may substitute 1 lemon 3.4 ounce instant pudding mixed with 2 cups cold milk) ➜ Z est of one large lemon and its juice ➜2 cups milk ➜O ptional: Italian

Limoncello Liqueur (1/2 cup) ➜2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract ➜2 packages lady fingers (7 oz. size)

DIRECTIONS Step 1: Prepare Mousse Soften cream cheese by removing the wrapper and placing it on a microwave safe plate. Microwave for 15-20 seconds. In a large mixing bowl, add lemon fruit pie filling, the zest (grated lemon skin) with juice and the softened cream cheese. Beat by hand with spatula or use mixer on medium high, using the paddle attachment until light and fluffy and free of lumps. Step 2: Whipped Cream Topping Pour heavy whipping cream into a chilled bowl and use an electric mixer on medium high speed (or whisk by hand), adding slowly 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar. Set aside in the fridge until needed. Step 3: Assemble In a small bowl, combine milk and vanilla extract. Dip the top and bottom of each ladyfinger, soaking them in the milk mixture and line them face down at bottom of a 9-inch square Pyrex dish. You may need to cut the ladyfingers in order to fit rows into the dish. Once the bottom layer is built, spread half the lemon mousse over top. Then, add the next layer of dipped lady fingers followed by the remaining mousse, spreading evenly. Lastly, spread the prepared whipped cream over the top of the mousse. Cover dish and refrigerate for 4-6 hours to allow layers to set. Serve optional topped with very thin sliced lemon or fresh berries.

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 65

PRHTHE MENU COURTESY OF RIPAL DALAL

VEGETABLE

BIRYANI The historic rebirth of one of Italy’s premier cafes

authentic italian restaurant & bar gastronomic gelato artisan coffee roasting assaggi (tapas) / crudo regional italian wine & beer italian cultural school

INGREDIENTS ➜1 1/2 cups uncooked rice ➜1 /2 cup beaten curds ➜1 1/2 cups mixed boiled vegetables ➜ 1 /2 tsp. sugar (french beans, carrots, green peas, ➜1 /2 tsp. kesar and warm milk cauliflower, potatoes) ➜4 -5 tbsp. Ghee ➜2 onions, sliced and fried ➜S alt, to taste FOR THE PASTE ➜2 medium onions, chopped and ➜1 /2 tsp. dhania powder boiled ➜1 tsp. khus-khus powder ➜1 tbsp. fresh, grated coconut ➜1 tsp. aniseeds ➜4 cloves of garlic ➜1 tsp. chili powder ➜G inger, to taste ➜3 /4 tsp. garam masala ➜ T urmeric powder, to taste ➜1 tbsp. kaju powder ➜3 curry leaves ➜ ( Grind or blend all ingredients) ➜1 /2 tsp. jeera powder DIRECTIONS

1716 CHESTNUT STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103 215.568.5600 W W W . G R A N C A F F E L A Q U I L A. C O M

Preheat oven to 347 degrees (175 C). Boil rice 1-2 hours prior to preparing this dish. Each grain should be separate. Add kesar, warm milk, salt and 1 1/2 tbsp. ghee to the rice. Cook for two minutes. Fry paste in remaining ghee for five minutes, cool. Add curds, salt, sugar and vegetables to the paste. Grease a baking dish with ghee. Make alternate layers of fried onions, rice, vegetable mixture. Topmost layers should be rice and then fried onions. Cover with foil and bake 20-25 minutes. Invert and serve.

Philadelphia RowHome Magazine Suggested Wine Pairing Courtesy of Vincent Novello Luigi Bosca Malbec Single Vineyard $16 66

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

MARKET MONEY EGIFT CARDS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

he South 9th Street Italian Market Business Association recently announced the launch of their new mobile community gift card. It’s the first of its type in Pennsylvania and supports the mission to develop new and progressive ways to enhance the shopping experience at the Italian Market. The card promotes local shopping, dining and gifting in our community. It is especially important to the local businesses that have been forced to close their doors or alter their delivery/pick up services in response to the coranavirus epidemic. You can purchase your gift cards now and redeem them later. “9th St. Market Money” is an eGift Card that’s accepted in nearly 30 shops and restaurants throughout the shopping district! This is an easy and fun way to keep local spending with local merchants. You can send it to family, friends and colleagues via email, text or printed. Recipients can choose to use it at one of the participating merchants in the shopping district or mix it up and spend it at multiple locations. “We are thrilled to participate in this innovative program on the Market. It is simple and easy to use and we are ready to welcome new customers into our market!”

said Domenick Crimi, Business Association President and GM at Cappuccio’s Meats. Local companies have already expressed interest in using the Market Money for employee rewards, customer appreciation and marketing. “It’s a great way to “give back” to our community,” said Anthony Anastasio, 4th generation owner of Anthony’s Italian Coffee House, who purchased the very first eGift Card to include in their September fundraising event. “We value the opportunity to reinvest in the community where we live, work and play, rather than awarding gift cards that leave the region.” By supporting local businesses, more money circulates in the community through a combination of profits paid to local owners, wages paid to local workers, goods and services procured locally for internal use or resale, and charitable giving within the community. For more information or to participate as a merchant in the program, contact the S. 9th St. Business Association at 9thStEC@gmail.com or visit the Italian Market Visitor Center & Gift Shop at 919 S. 9th St. on the Italian Market. PRH Purchase your Market Money cards at www.ItalianMarketPhilly.org or the visitor center.

Italian Market Launches First-of-its-kind eCards

BUY NOW. REDEEM LATER! by Brenda Hillegas

V isit A merica ’s O ldest O utdo o r Ma rket

Home to Over 200 Unique Specialty Shops & Restaurants Open Everyday - ItalianMarketPhilly.org - 215-278-2903 Online Ordering with Same Day Delivery

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 67

PRHTHE MENU

COURTESY OF CESCAPHE

FRENCH

French 75 is a cocktail made from gin, Champagne, lemon juice and sugar. It is also called a 75 Cocktail or in French, a Soixante Quinze (Seventy Five). The drink dates back to World War I. An early version of this classic was created in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris—later Harry’s New York Bar—by barman Harry MacElhone.

INGREDIENTS ➜ 1 oz of gin ➜2 ozs fresh lemon juice

➜S plash of

simple syrup

DIRECTIONS Shake and strain into a martini glass. Top with sparkling wine. Garnish with fresh lemon CESCAPHE IS A MEMBER OF THE PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME MAGAZINE (PRH) BUSINESS NETWORK.

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 68

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

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

COURTESY OF PETE ALESSI

BLUEBERRY & LEMON

RICOTTA COOKIES by debbie russino

I would love to take credit for this recipe but the truth is, my son and I had a bake-off for the best Ricotta Christmas Cookie and he won, hands down. They were very delicious but may I just say that he acquired these mad baking skills from yours truly. I was making homemade pies from scratch at the age of 12. These cookies are light, fluffy and perfect for spring.

➜2 1/2 cups flour ➜2 tsp. baking powder ➜1 /2 tsp. baking soda ➜3 /4 tsp. salt ➜1 /2 cup (1 stick) butter ➜1 3/4 cups sugar

INGREDIENTS ➜2 large eggs ➜1 5 oz. whole milk ricotta cheese ➜1 tsp. vanilla ➜2 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice ➜ L emon zest ➜1 cup of fresh blueberries

FOR GLAZE ➜1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar ➜1 /4 cup lemon juice DIRECTIONS Put dry ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Mix melted butter and sugar together and add eggs one at a time, then add ricotta cheese, vanilla, lemon juice and zest. Slowly add dry ingredients and mix together on a low speed. With a spoon, fold in blueberries. Refrigerate dough for one hour before baking. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon to measure the size of each cookie. Cook for about 15 minutes or until golden brown on bottom. Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice together and glaze the top when cookies have cooled.

Andreozzi Photography

WEDDINGS • SPECIAL EVENTS • BIRTHDAYS • ANNIVERSARIES

Andrew Paul - Photographer “QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHY FOR LESS” (484) 614-1952 apandreozziphotography@aol.com apandreozziphotography.com April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 69

PRH Brides Guide

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

Franca &Tavella Leonard Altieri ‘What are you doing for the next 40 or 50 years?’ by Joe Volpe

had the pleasure of speaking with South Philadelphia native Franca Tavella and Leonard Altieri about their unique New Year’s Eve wedding at Vie. I am delighted to share with you how they incorporated some quintessential Philly traditions into their love story.

How did you meet? I was born and raised in the East Passyunk neighborhood of South Philadelphia. My husband Leonard is from Newtown Square, PA. We met in 2013 during our first semester at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law. The first time we hung out outside of the classroom was at Tavern on Broad, which is why we stopped there for some “shots” after our ceremony en route to Vie! How did the proposal happen? Fast forward past graduation and the bar exam, Leonard proposed on May 17, 2018, in front of the Rocky statue because I am a HUGE fan of the movie. (I know everyone from Philly says that, but I really am!)

As he got down on one knee, he quoted Rocky’s proposal to Adrian from Rocky II (my favorite sequel): “What are you doing for the next 40 or 50 years? I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind marrying me much.” Of course, I said YES!

our hotel block through Cescaphe’s Concierge, to designing our cake and planning every single detail of our wedding day timeline. So many people have asked us if we used a wedding planner and I always reply, “No, we just booked Cescaphe.”

Why did you choose a Cescaphe Wedding?

What was your favorite part about wedding planning?

I attended one of the first weddings held at Vie when it opened in 2012 and fell in love with the venue, immediately. My parents, Leonard and I also attended several Cescaphe weddings, both at Vie and at the other venues, and experienced Cescaphe’s consistently wonderful service and delicious food, first-hand. The cocktail hour alone is simply amazing and always leaves guests astonished. When it came time to booking our venue, Cescaphe was just the obvious choice. Now that our wedding is over, we could not have been more pleased with Cescaphe. Planning a wedding involves so many moving parts but Cescaphe assisted us every step of the way to ensure that our day was perfect – from connecting us to amazing vendors (like Beautiful Blooms) and reserving

Since we decided to get married on New Year’s Eve in Philadelphia, my favorite part about wedding planning was thinking of different ways to incorporate New Year’s Eve festivities - and local traditions - into our wedding day so that our guests would be equally excited to ring in the New Year with us. For example, our reception included a performance by Fralinger String Band and our hotel welcome bags included NYE hats, horns and a copy of the 2020 Mummers Parade Route. What did you do to make your wedding day extra special? Halfway through the reception, we surprised our guests with a performance by Fralinger String Band. This performance was extra special for me

because my late grandmother was a huge Mummers fan, so I like to think that she was strutting along with us. We also had a balloon drop installed over the dance floor, which exploded at midnight, while Cescaphe served champagne to our guests. Other moments, which were more special for us than our guests, included a pit stop at Tavern on Broad after the ceremony, since that is where we first hung out outside of law school. Several of our vendors were purposely selected for sentimental reasons, as well, which added a more personal touch to our wedding day. What was your favorite part of your wedding?

My favorite part of the wedding was kissing my husband at midnight amidst the balloon drop surrounded by all of our family and friends. I remember the dance floor was packed with people and excitement. I just love the symbolism of ringing in a New Year – and a new decade – as a married couple. What advice would you give to future brides and grooms? The day goes by so quickly, even at times when you think to yourself that it’s not. I would advise future brides and grooms to make sure they steal some alone time throughout the day to remember what the day is truly about. PRH

CESCAPHE Credits Client Development Associate: Lisa Lucke

Event Coordinator: Kelsey Waters

Event Manager: Mary Ma

Head Server: Carlene Acello

Maitre D: Daniel Fleischmann

Cescaphe is a member of the PRH Business Network.

by JOSEPH VOLPE, Cescaphe.com

Cescaphe is a member of the PRH Business Network.

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: Vie Florist: Beautiful Blooms Band/DJ: Central Park Band

Invitations & Stationery: CreativeLee Designed

Videographer: Stomping Bread Productions

Dress Designer/Shop: Aire Barcelona/ Mari Mi Bridal Salon

Hair/Makeup: Blush Salon in Newtown Square

Photographer: Martin Reardon Photography

Transportation: Cescaphe Trolley; First Class Rolls Royce

Menswear Designer/Shop: Iacobucci Formal Wear in Havertown

Additional Vendors/Locations: Midnight Balloon Drop installed by Dino’s Party Center in South Philadelphia

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 71

t ing a r b e l Ce ARS!

PRHFASHION

Spring Fling

50 YE

“The Unusual Is Our Specialty”

❱❱

TIPS from the PROS

2020 by VICTORIA DIPIETRO www.bella-angel.com

FLORIST & DECORATORS John & Joann Vacca Flowers For All Occasions

www.petalpusherflowers.net

Winner- 2018 Readers' Choice Award!

215.463.5485

2515 S. Broad Street / Philadelphia, PA 19148

Spring is in the air and this season, we enter a new decade, so step out of your comfort zone! Have fun with your makeup. Make a statement and express yourself. That is the mood we will be capturing this spring. First, let’s put the spring sun to work for us. Light-catching adornments on bare faces or jeweled accents over your eyes provide a ray of sun that will melt the winter blues. They come with a sticky back so just peel and place onto your skin.

The blues are back

Bella Angel Bridal Hair & Makeup

Next, let your makeup be your best accessory this spring. Blue eyeshadows are back. If you are not immediately ready to “get crazy” with a bold eyeshadow look, start out subtly with a winged-out liner in your favorite shade of blue. By the end of the season, as you get more comfortable, get more creative and try an array of blue shadows.

Eye on the palette

We come to you! Locations in Old City Philadelphia & Cherry Hill, NJ

Voted #1

in Philly for Best Hair & Makeup.

856-227-7774 www

.bella-angel.com

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

Choosing the right seasonal color palette is critical. My favorite blue palette right now is MORPHE 18A BLUE YA AWAY ARTISTRY PALETTE™. It has 18 beautiful shades to really make your eyes pop. The palette includes a lot of blues but there are also grays in charcoal and silver, peach, auburn and periwinkle. Anyone can wear blue whether you have brown, green or blue eyes. A blue palette inspires feelings of peace and tranquility and we all want to feel serenity. Pastels and neon are also going to be a trend, this season, especially when worn with contrasting shades. White and cream liners will pair perfectly with your blue shadow or

your bright pastels, adding black mascara to finish your look.

Love your lips

Now is the time to swap out those dark winter shades of lipstick with brighter tones. Experiment and be bold. I am obsessed with red lips this season. Lip stains in vibrant shades of cherry, watermelon or strawberry are perfect for a night out as the weather gets warmer. I love the SEPHORA COLLECTION Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick™. A classic red lip never goes out of fashion and is a style favorite, again, this season. Try Red Velvet or Cherry Moon if you want a classic red. Red will instantly add a touch of glamour to any look. It goes with everything and can be worn for any occasion.

Go nude

Nude lips are a recent trend, and just like red, nude can be worn with anything. A nude lip shade is sure to make everything else about your makeup stand out and will be certain to highlight your best features. My favorite nude lip stain right now is TARTE Lippie Lingerie Matte Lip Tint™, which is a longwearing, hydrating matte lip tint in a range of sultry shades. Nude will forever be a classic, but since it is spring, you might want to try a bright orange lip. Wear it with a pastel shadow for a bright, brash look. I look forward to your icemelting spring looks!

Victoria DiPietro, Bella Angel Bridal Hair & Makeup, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine Business Network. gohomephilly.com

â&#x20AC;&#x2030;PRHFASHION

GLOW LAB A physical, mental & spiritual makeover by Dominique Verrecchio glowlabnj.com

low Lab in the Cherry Hill Town Center is on a mission to make you feel amazing every day. With a focus on health, self-care and feeling good about yourself, Monica DiDonato and her partner Nadia Petruzelli want to provide you with a new, all-inclusive experience. DiDonato, 40, was born and bred in South Philadelphia, where she still resides with her family. She graduated from Temple in 2001 with a degree in education and taught in Philadelphia for six years before switching careers. She said she was looking for something important enough to lure her away from her family during the course of her work day. With trials and tribulations in luxury fashion retail management, her brother Ron had an idea to quit their jobs and start an Amazon Business, which they still own and operate along with a childhood friend. The success of their business gave DiDonato the ability to parlay into a second venture. That is where Glow Lab was born!

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

gohomephilly.com

921 Haddonfield Road Suite B32B Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Garden State Town Center

FA S H I O N

Glow Lab specializes in spray tans and makeup. Their team of professionals, or “chemists,” as they like to call themselves, focus on providing top of the line services in their lab. “We are constantly making sure we are offering not only what we believe is the best product on the market, but the best blend of color specified for each individual. We will cater to men and women of all shapes, sizes, origins and ethnicities.” Along with DiDonato and Petruzelli, the Glow Lab’s team consists of the Glow Babes - Anna (a successful makeup artist) and Devyn, Shelby and Taylor, who all have backgrounds in makeup, beauty and/or are licensed estheticians. “Together, Nadia and I spent many long nights making our vision come to life. We hand-picked each team member because they have the same passion and drive that we have for self-love and self-care. That is a priority for us. You just have to take care of yourself physically, mentally and spiritually. Carve out that time for yourself because no one is going to do it for you.” Indulge in self-care with Glow Lab’s body hydration treatment, a “liquid gold” that is applied to the skin like a spray tan, but with no color pigmentation… just a gorgeously dewy glow! DiDonato believes the product will set them apart from the rest. They are also offering a Body x CAMO spray, a flawless foundation applied with a spray tan gun to the whole body, blurring out any imperfection and giving a bit of color without the commitment of a spray tan. “No down time. Just spray it, set it, get dressed and go! It’s a game-changer.” The passion you find at Glow Lab stems from DiDonato’s South Philly roots. “We are a close-knit, never-give-up, work-hard-for-what-you-want type of people. We argue and disagree, but we stick together. It’s the South Philly way. My dad recently passed away and everything changed for us. He worked with us every day at our warehouse. That shift in our lives makes you prioritize life really quickly. You can’t wait for the perfect scenario. You make your own future, so you just have to go for it.” Her biggest inspiration is any girl boss out there working hard, raising her children or grandchildren, waking up before everyone to squeeze in the gym or ‘me time’ before making lunches, cleaning bathrooms and working full-time jobs. “No one can multitask like a woman on a mission to get things done!” DiDonato believes that Glow Lab is going to be successful because they genuinely love what they do. “We are constantly thirsty for more information, more knowledge to learn how to grow. Our passion for helping people feel amazing both inside and out is unstoppable. We are truly ecstatic about this venture.” PRH

-custom airbrush tanning - b o d y b ro n z i n g x camo -body h yd ra t i o n t re a t m e n t s - m a ke - u p application

Glow Lab is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

(near Nordstrom Rack, 2nd floor). Handicap elevators available.

glowlabnj@gmail.com

www.glowlabnj.com

glowlabnj 856-320-4011

FLORIST

Wedding

EVENTS

Specialists

1921 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-336-3557 800-248-3557 www.tenpenniesflorist.com April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 75

PRHFASHION

“Buschel”

On-Site Makeup Artists

of Love

specializing in:

by Lou Pinto

FULL FACE MAKEUP AIRBRUSHING

STRIP | INDIVIDUAL | MINK LASHES

VO TED B E S T I N B U C KS C O U N T Y WI NNER OF “T H E B E A U T Y B A T T L E D E L C O” w w w

u n d e r g r o u n d a r t i s t r y

southampton, pa

n e t

| 267-808-2571

like us on facebook! instagram!

| follow us on @underground_artistry

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

am a blessed man. God blessed me with three beautiful daughters and four gorgeous granddaughters. I always told my girls that you can be anything you want to be or do anything you want to do. To quote an old cliché, “If you can imagine being or doing it, you can become it.” I also would tell them, “If a guy gives you any crap, tell him, ‘My last name ends in a vowel and my Dad owns a shovel.’” I want to tell you about my youngest daughter, Tara. My “Buschel.” Yes, “Buschel” - spelled exactly that way. I have called her my “Buschel of Love” since she was born. Growing up, Tara was that little girl who made her own path. She has always been strong-willed and has always known what she wants out of life. gohomephilly.com

FA S H I O N

Graduating from La Salle University with a degree in business, she went on to receive her esthetician license from Lansdale School of Cosmetology. While attending school, she worked at Sephora and eventually became a manager. After just three years at Sephora, she started her own business, Underground Artistry, specializing in makeup for weddings and events. While working for Sephora at a mall, Tara’s grandmother (Mom-Mom) encouraged her to start her own business. “I don’t like you walking to your car late at night.” Unfortunately, Mom-Mom passed before she could see Tara’s success. When Tara achieved her goal of owning her own business, she called Mom-Mom’s phone (which was still active) and in a heartfelt and tearful voice she said, “MomMom, I’m doing what you wanted me to do. I’m starting my own business and I wish you were here, but I know you are. I love you and thank you for always believing in me!” When Tara won her first award, she brought it to MomMom’s grave and left it there

along with her business card. Today, Tara is married to her best friend George (did I mention that I have three great sons-inlaw, too?), who has been one of her biggest cheerleaders from the beginning. To say I am proud of “My Buschel” is an understatement. In the short time she has owned and operated Underground Artistry, she has done work for Disney+; MTV’s Teen Mom 2; Bravo’s Southern Charm; ABC’s Shark Tank; DirecTV’s NFL Draft; Spencer’s Novelty Store ads. She also won the “Beauty Battle Delco.” Underground Artistry, founded in 2014, is leading a team of seven artists specializing in Bridal and Event Makeup. Tara has been recognized as “Best of Bucks” in 2015, 2016 and 2017 by three mainstream publications: The Intelligencer, The Courier Times and Bucks Happening. She also is certified in airbrushing. She has worked with several celebrities to groom and apply makeup. At the time of the release of this issue of PRH, she will be in Miami Florida doing makeup for a popular sports production. The way Tara is going, she probably will be a celebrity in her own right very soon. I love you, my Buschel! PRH

Pat & Anna Scioli

Brand Name Designer Suits from Italy Sports Jackets • Pants • Dress Shirts Ties • Cashmere Top Coats Custom Alterations for men & women 1744 E. Passyunk Avenue 215.334.0990

Underground Artistry is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 77

PRHMUSIC&ART The Theatre Geek

MUSIC TO MY EYES!

by Marialena Rago

love going to the theater but some days, I just like to be at home watching a good old movie musical like RENT or Hello Dolly (a family favorite). Luckily, there are a number of new movie musicals coming to the screen in the months ahead! In the Heights. Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda started his Broadway career with this Tony-winning musical about life in Washington Heights. The musical centers on a bodega owner, Usnavi, played by Hamilton alum Anthony Ramos,

FILM

who hopes to one day return to his native Dominican Republic, and other characters who really start to understand the meaning of home. The close-knit group will remind you of our own streets in South Philly. It is due in theaters June 26th. Everybody is Talking about Jamie. London’s hit musical based on the 2011 documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is coming to theaters October 23, 2020. Created by The Feeling lead singer Dan Gillespie Sells and Tom MacRae, it is about a young drag queen who

photo by Steven Pisano

Popular Stage Musicals Headed to the Screen

overcomes prejudice to become a star. The show was nominated for five Olivier Awards in 2017. West Side Story. The classic movie musical is getting the Steven Spielberg treatment. The iconic story explores forbidden love and the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. Though nothing can touch the original 1961 classic, I’m excited to see a 21st century take on Leonard Bernstein’s masterpiece. The film opens December 18, 2020. The Prom. This Ryan Murphy directed movie, based off the 2019

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

musical, is going to be a starstudded event! The cast includes James Corden, Ariana Grande, Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep and Kerry Washington...to name a few. Picture a bunch of washedup Broadway stars who intervene in a small Indiana high school to help a young student who isn’t allowed to take her girlfriend to prom! The musical itself closed on Broadway way too soon, but we’ll all get a chance to experience the story on Netflix in late 2020. Besides the movies that are slated for this year, there are quite a few that are in development. Here’s a small sampling of what’s coming up. Mean Girls. Yes, it is already a movie, but as you all know, Tina Fey’s classic comedy was adapted into a hit musical a few years ago. Now, that musical version is coming to the screen. There is no word on who will be star in the movie but one can hope that the

original Broadway cast has a shot! Tick Tick…..Boom. A cult favorite is finally getting some recognition thanks to Lin-Manuel Miranda. The adaption of RENT creator Jonathan Larson’s semi-autobiographical musical about an aspiring composer will be Mr. Miranda’s first attempt in the director’s chair. The cast includes Andrew Garfield, Robin de Jesús, Joshua Henry, Vanessa Hudgens and Bradley Whitford. There’s no release date for it yet but I already have space for this movie in my Netflix queue! The Little Mermaid. Disney’s classic 1989 movie about a mermaid who longs to be human is getting the live action treatment. R&B singer Halle Bailey will be putting on the tail and will sing both the original songs by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken and new ones by Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The movie is currently being filmed. PRH

gohomephilly.com

Pilladi and Lingo at an Eagles game.

Photos of Paolo Pilladi and Greg Lingo on set by Andrea Cipriani Mecchi

CRABS IN A BUCKET Local filmmakers bring colorful characters to life

by Jane Roser

FILM

ou might be inclined to think a film called Crabs in a Bucket would be a documentary about a seafood restaurant, but rest assured, it’s definitely not. Crab mentality is defined by the idea that one crab placed into a bucket will claw its way out, but a bunch of crabs will pull the escapee back in, ensuring their collective demise. The basic idea is, ‘If I can’t have it, then neither can you.’ The indie comedy from Cornell Ventures, Future Proof Films, JARS Production and Goodie Goodie Productions stars Jeremy Piven as Mick, a wealthy, ambitious real estate developer who returns to his childhood Philadelphia stomping grounds after his mother’s death to discover he’s the new owner of the family pub, which his boss is determined to tear down. Does Mick follow the money or save his neighborhood? Filmed predominately in Bayonne, New Jersey, Crabs in a Bucket is directed and written by Paolo Pilladi and co-written/executive produced by entrepreneur Greg Lingo. This is Lingo’s first foray into film. He grew up in Upper Darby and started writing the story several years ago with his friends Billy Reilly and Michael Baughan. “It wasn’t until after I left the area that I realized just how uniquely rich the people and personalities were.” They used actual characters, events and places as an initial inspiration, which then morphed as the screenplay was adapted to film. Pilladi is from Overbrook, just across from where Lingo grew up, so the colorful story resonated with him given their shared upbringing and

similar network of friends. The movie also stars film icon Bruce Dern (Once Upon A Time in Hollywood), Taryn Manning (Orange is the New Black), Jamie Kennedy (Malibu’s Most Wanted), Cathy Moriarty (Raging Bull), Jack McGee (The Fighter), Zach McGowan (Shameless) and Cheri Oteri (Saturday Night Live). Working with Dern was definitely a highlight for everyone involved. “We were so fortunate to have him,” Lingo says. “Unbeknownst to us, Bruce knew Upper Darby well. He used to golf at Cobbs Creek while he was a student at the University of Pennsylvania.” The filmmakers praise their entire cast for exceeding their wildest expectations. “Coming from all different walks of life, the cast immediately connected to the notion of that inherent jealousy and admiration we all feel for our friends who are striving for more,” Lingo says. “We love our friends and want the best for them, but we also don’t want them to leave us behind.” “Our producers deserve a ton of credit for assembling this cast,” Pilladi says. “They all have a broad range of comedic chops, some with legendary improv skills. Being able to give them the freedom to make the words their own and allowing certain scenes to transform into something greater was a blessing for this film.” Filming wrapped in October and is currently in post-production. They’re nearing a picture lock, Pilladi says, then move on to color correction, sound design and score. Lingo hopes to complete the film by April and says that Philadelphians can look forward to a local screening. PRH

Relationship Banking Defined Your banker knows you by name ACCOUNTABLE TO CUSTOMERS for life Competent staff who care Great rates, Good Products & No Gimmicks TRUST US

because

YOU CAN

610.627.0100

www.

.com

Philadelphia Offices 1510 Packer Ave. 215-467-4300

Broad & Passyunk Ave. 215-389-5500

732 South 10th St. 215-923-8490

April / May / June 2020

Broomall

Springfield

Media

2535 West Chester Pike 610-325-8800

301 Baltimore Pike 610-544-9090

35 E. Baltimore Ave. 610-627-0100

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 79

PRHMUSIC&ART

45 Spotlight

FRANKIE AVALON

Oh Venus, make my dreams come true

by Geno Thackara t’s easy to forget what a crazy place the pop music world was when listeners first met Francis Thomas Avallone. It was a time when the weirdest, unexpected hits or trends could pop up and sweep the nation seemingly overnight. People fervently followed TV programs dedicated to showcasing new musical talents. Fresh emerging stars were splashed across screens in all their charismatic glory as they sang to crowds of adoring fans. Yes, it was a strange environment – nothing

MUSIC

at all like today’s music culture. Under the more snappy stage name of Frankie Avalon, Philadelphia’s famous teen heartthrob thrived in this music scene of the ‘50s like a natural surfer smoothly catching waves by instinct. Promoters and record companies always were eager to find new stars to put on public pedestals as long as there was some talent to back it up. Avalon was covered on that score: he made his first major musical appearance playing the trumpet on The Jackie Gleason Show at age 12. Soon enough, he landed in a party band called Rocco and the Saints, often with fellow future idol Bobby Rydell backing them up at the drums. He and his horn were going places all over town. Like many jacks-of-all-trades, though, Avalon never felt a need to call himself one thing first and foremost. Playing, singing, dancing and acting would all lead to plenty

of good times in his career. As it happens, it was the singing that first launched him into the national spotlight when 1957’s toe-tapper “De De Dinah” made it into the Billboard top 10 (though the charming schoolboy looks certainly didn’t hurt, either). This one was pretty cutesy even for a teenybopper tune but it made for an American Bandstand performance that had all the girls screaming, swooning or both. More danceable hits followed with the likes of “Gingerbread” and “You Excite Me.” As fun as those were, the defining change came when Avalon and his promoters took a hard (or rather surprisingly soft) turn with a new song from the desk of Edward Marshall. The R&B jangle gave way to sweeping strings; the rhythm swayed lightly rather than making hips shake; and by early 1959, “Venus” was shooting up to the number-one spot in the nation. The singer’s voice had found its career-defining sound even though

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

(or perhaps because) it was so different from everything else that had come before. It was the stuff of which teenage dreams are made. Marshall’s words conveyed a picture of unabashed romantic longing that would be over-schmaltzy if it wasn’t so earnest. Avalon’s light reverie, wishing for “a lovely girl with sunlight in her hair,” hit a whole new note among his admirers. It would prove to be his all-time biggest hit and establish the lush tone he’s been known for ever since. When he next hit American Bandstand that spring, it was to croon “Venus” while strolling around a set built to look like a moonlit castle. This time, the audience did a little less screaming though the applause was no less adoring once things gently coasted to an end. The appearance ended with Avalon receiving his first gold record from Dick Clark just before taking off for a debut tour of Australia. Everything was indeed on the way up. A prolific series of singles followed – more than two dozen of them also hitting the charts in the span of four years. “A Boy Without a Girl,” “Bobby Sox to Stockings,” “Don’t Throw Away All Those Teardrops,” “Why” (another #1) and many others would go on to make the soundtrack to a million slow dances.

The streak dropped off as such things inevitably do, which gave an opening to follow that other time-honored teen idol’s tradition - a move into film acting. As if an endorsement from John Wayne for his dramatic roles wasn’t enough, he and Annette Funicello established the new teen “beach party” genre with the classic film of that name and six others to follow. Acting on screen alternated with acting onstage. Avalon remained happy to try anything once, even giving “Venus” a new and surprisingly non-gimmicky disco treatment in the mid-’70s. If he didn’t win many new fans with that one, it was more than outweighed by his iconic appearance in Grease, where his cheerfully not-quite-wicked fantasy number provided one of the film’s most memorable moments (and certainly its weirdest). Besides making another much-loved staple in the public’s memory, the film remained, in his opinion, “the most successful thing I’ve ever been a part of.” It’s only natural that such talent kept bringing success in any form. One way or another, he’s always had a knack for finding his way into people’s hearts... or, you could say, maybe even helping make dreams come true. PRH gohomephilly.com

P RH MUSIC

JOHN MADARA The local legend we met

“At the Hop”

by John Nacchio hiladelphia born singer-songwriter, composer, producer and music publisher John Madara has a vast number of musical lifetime achievements, with a career spanning more than 60 years. His music has become woven into American culture with a lexicon of associations with celebrity names and motion picture soundtracks (Grease, Hairspray, Dirty Dancing, American Graffiti and Woodstock).

MUSIC

Early life was a struggle for Madara, who grew up in public housing around South Philadelphia. He was the only one of six children interested in music. His first record, “Be My Girl,” was released early in 1957. Soon, he was contracted to Prep Records Company and was about to record his second record. He had written a song with his friend Dave White entitled, “Do The Bop,” a popular dance at the time. “We played [“Do the Bop”] for Prep Records and they didn’t like it. They said it was garbage rock ‘n’ roll,” Madara says. So, he played the song for Dick Clark, who was hosting the teen dance show Bandstand. Clark’s opinion was that the “Bop” dance

was fading in popularity and suggested changing the title and lyrics to “At the Hop.” They rewrote the lyrics and re-recorded it. Danny Rapp, the lead singer of Danny and the Juniors – Dave White’s group – sang lead. The rest is history. The song became a #1 hit both nationally and internationally. Madara later co-wrote other popular hits including “1-2-3” for Len Barry, “The Fly” for Chubby Checker and, in 1963, “You Don’t Own Me” for 17-yearold Lesley Gore. “You Don’t Own Me” was a breakthrough in voicing a female position in a male dominant society. Madara created the dramatic piano opening as composer/arranger, adding to the impact of the song’s lyrics. In pop culture, it became an inspiration for

younger women and is sometimes cited as a factor in the second wave feminist movement. Later, filmmakers used the song as the featured production number for the story portrayed in The First Wives Club. In 2016, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Madara also worked as a record producer and is attributed in discovering Leon Huff who, along with Kenny Gamble, pioneered the style of music known as Philly Soul (Sounds of Philadelphia). “I saw a band called The Lavenders,” Madara says. “And there’s Leon Huff on piano. I thought, ‘Wow, this guy can play!’” The two talked after the show and Madara ended up signing Huff to a writing and production deal. Leon Huff met Kenny Gamble for the first time in an elevator in the Shubert Building, where Madara’s offices were located. He would go on to participate in copublishing all of their early records. Madara discovered Hall & Oates, too, insisting the duo record together after working with both of them separately. Madara smiles in

good humor saying that they may never have met if not through him. When it comes to music, Madara prides himself on doing it all. “At age 84 or 150 years old, I’ll still do what I’m doing.” He takes extreme pride in his expert knowledge of health and fitness that he applies to his own life, as well, and looks forward to sharing it with everyone on TV or as a potential webisode series. Madara is currently living in California (though he talks about moving back to the East Coast one day), where he’s working on his very first solo album, writing new music and arranging new versions of standards. He also was nominated for “Legend Songwriter/Composer” for this year’s East Coast Music Awards, to be held at Harrah’s Atlantic City on June 9th and 10th. The biggest project on John Madara’s “To Do” list, though, is pitching his very own movie script to be filmed in Philadelphia called At the Hop. “My work ethic has been there since I was a boy,” Madara says. “I don’t feel complete if I don’t do something musically every day.” PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 81

PRHMUSIC&ART

ROCK FOR RECOVERY

A WORKOUT YOU’LL NEVER REGRET! What we have to offer: — CrossFit — Bootcamp — Olympic Lifting — Personal Training — Kids

— Sports & Team Specific Training (10 yrs to Collegiate level) — Access to Fitness Works with Pool & Sauna!

More than just a podcast

It’s a Rock N Roll Union

Join our PHL Family Today! 2017 Juniper Street Philly, PA 19148 267.240.1086

tonytshirts.com

WE STAND BY OUR WORK tel : 917-300-8343 sales@tonytshirts.com www.tonytshirts.com www.dirtymug.com

ver since CT McManus was a teenager, he had the idea of a “Rock N Roll Union” on his mind. “But I never knew what it truly was,” he says. “I always thought it would be cool if everyone could unite and try to do everything in unity. I got married, had kids and chose to follow those responsibilities.” Unfortunately, when his marriage fell apart, McManus went through hell trying to gain custody of his children. He eventually won that custody and remarried. Through everything, his passion for rock and roll kept him going. “After seeing Mach 22 open for Tom Keifer, I was totally inspired and decided to finally move on this dream of a ‘rock n roll union,’” he says. The original idea was a place for all rock fans to unite - meet-ups and concerts where people can come together to celebrate their love of music. But his idea ended up becoming something more. “A friend of mine was looking to fill his podcast network with more shows and I thought a podcast [about the Rock N Roll Union] would be a great addition.” McManus reached out to his own musician friends to see if they would like to play their original music on air. The idea was a huge success. “Soon, original artists from across the world were featured on the show,” he says. And then, something even bigger came out of the podcast. Rock N Roll Union has been helping families find ways to cope with addic-

MUSIC

phlathletics . com

by Brenda Hillegas

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

tion and drug overdoses through a series of concerts. The cause is very personal to McManus as he watched his two older brothers die from drug overdoses almost one year apart. A sister-in-law was also in recovery. McManus wanted to do his part, which meant the development of a Rock for Recovery concert series. Concert #4 (R4R4) will take place on May 16th at Hot Shots Bar & Grill in Westville, NJ. Tickets are $10 and all proceeds from this year’s show will go to Stop the Heroin (www.stoptheheroin.org) to raise funds for their recovery efforts. Several of the artists who perform at the Rock for Recovery series have been in recovery themselves. R4R4 encourages everyone to come out to discover original music, support a cause that means a lot to so many people and meet others who also just love to rock and roll. The show goes all day, 3 pm to 2 am, and features bands like Spencer & the Elegant Blackouts, Atomic Motel, Psychedelic Elders, Shayds of Grey, Out of Bounds, Machines of Penalty, Mane Attraction, World of Cold and Blackleg Miner. McManus credits his wife for keeping him on track with executing these events. He is working hard as the Rock N Roll Union plans to host a meeting in Atlantic City this year with record executives, promoters and bands to figure out more ways they can all benefit each other. For more information on the upcoming concert or other ways you can help, join the “Rock n Roll Union” Facebook group or contact CT McManus at RocknRollUnion@hotmail.com. PRH

gohomephilly.com

LOCAL BAND SPOTLIGHT

60 Minute Signature Massage $49 60 Minute Signature Facial $59

2545 S. Broad St Philadelphia PA 19148 215.467.9666 WWW.HOTHANDSPHILLY.COM Mention this ad & get FREE HOT STONES or SCALP MASSAGE Like Facebook

KICK IT OUT

This band has Heart

Yelp

215-467-2050 215-467-2051 ORDER ONLINE @

Grubhub/Slice/uber eatS Fast pick up and delivery 367 Durfor St. (Corner of 4th & Durfor) between Wolf & Ritner www.southviewpizzas.com

by Matt Kelchner

H MUSIC

eart - the radio rock legends that began in Seattle - is one of those bands that needs little introduction. For many, that unforgettable chugging guitar rift will instantly come to mind whenever someone says, “Oooo Barracuda.” Their resume includes 35 million records sold worldwide, seven top 10 albums and four Grammy nominations. All the while, with sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson at the helm, Heart helped blaze the trail for women-led rock bands during their time, as well as long after. In 2013, they were rightfully inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Taking all of this into consideration, it is a pretty tall order for anyone looking to recreate what Ann and Nancy Wilson have with Heart. It’s something that Sandy Hall, lead singer of the Philadelphia/South Jersey Heart tribute band Kick It Out is quick to acknowledge. “I am always nervous when performing even though I have done it for over 40 years.” Kick It Out first formed back in 2008. Hall recalls, “I have been a Heart fan since the ‘70s and have wanted to put together a Heart tribute with Susan Salmon for many years.” Salmon, aka the Nancy Wilson of the group, can be heard on guitar and background vocals. Kick It Out is rounded out with Mark Evans on bass, Billy Salmon on guitar, Helene Ryan on keyboards and Scott Culver on drums.

One of the biggest challenges the group constantly faces is one that fans might not regularly pick up on - the complexity woven into a lot of Heart’s songs. “Even “Barracuda” and “Magic Man.” They seem easy but there is a lot more to those songs, technically.” For Hall, specifically, the vocal range that Ann Wilson demonstrates from song to song is an added level of difficulty that she has come to master. “You want to perform with power, passion and at times, tenderness,” she notes while discussing the range in dynamics between early and later Heart albums. “Ann’s high notes are off the charts and they are not soft or airy.” It’s also challenging for Kick It Out’s members to manage a certain level of authenticity with each of their performances. While each member’s love and admiration for Heart is high, they do not want to come off as carbon copies. “Our goal is to recreate the intention and channel the energy, and not to necessarily impersonate them.” Kick It Out has met each of these obstacles head-on since their beginning. “We want to give you goosebumps as Heart gives you goosebumps and bring you back to when you first heard these timeless songs.” You can catch Kick It Out as they play across the greater tri-state area this spring and summer. Tour dates can be found at www. kickitoutband.com. The band is also seeking out new gigs and can be booked through Frank Kielb Entertainment at 610.325.4540. PRH

Where, oh where, is my RowHome Mag?

Winter. Spring. Summer. Fall.

Look for your new edition every quarter! Up Next: 1909 East Passyunk Avenue Spring 2020 Philadelphia, Pa. Real People. Real Stories. 267.319.1678 Summer 2020 Local Hot Spots & Hidden Gems noirrestaurantandbar.com

Fall 2020

Salute to Service 2020 Blue Sapphire / WishRock Award Winners

Join our RowHome Grown family Subscribe at gohomephilly.com or call 215.462.9777 Contact RowHomeBrenda@gmail.com for our ad deadlines.

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 83

Philadelphia Phantomz

PRH

WINNING GAMES &

SPORTS

EMPOWERING WOMEN

by Anthony Panvini photo by Chelsea Michaels hen the phrase “Philadelphia sports” is mentioned in South Philly, you probably think of the Eagles, Sixers, Phillies, Flyers, Union or Wings. There is another team, however, that has been around for a few years now and they’ll definitely be creeping into the conversation soon—The Philadelphia Phantomz. Founded in 2015 by Star Wright, the Phantomz are Philly’s women’s tackle football team in the Women’s

S P O RT S

National Football Conference (WNFC). They just entered their 5th season with a home opener on April 4th. The regular season, which consists of a total of six games, runs from the beginning of April until about the second week of June. When the regular season ends, the playoffs begin during the last week of June and the championship game is held in July. Going into the season, Wright explains that one of their expectations—aside from winning games—is to continue to empower women. One move that reinforces that goal was their switch from the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA) to the WNFC. “We moved to the WNFC because that league represents us best,” Wright says. “The WNFC feels very strongly about the development of women’s tackle football and they support each team’s initiatives. The switch was a no brainer.” Led by new head coach Troy Gore, the Phantomz are going into this season with high expectations. “…We changed our entire coaching

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

staff,” Wright says. “With Troy Gore leading the team, we hope to have a successful season. We have two amazing Team USA players, Satoria Bell and Angie Wells, who we are expecting to lead our team to many victories.” In addition to the veteran players, The Phantomz also have some key rookies they are expecting to make an impact, as well. One of those rookies is Merrin McSorely. “She will be an intricate part of our offense,” Wright says. “She is a rugby player and tackle football came naturally to her. She is an amazing young athlete who we are expecting to have a breakout season.” Opportunities arise every year for new players to join the team through several different ways. For starters, every year the team holds tryouts. The team invites international players as well as players from around the country to participate if interested. Make sure to stay tuned to their social media accounts for upcoming news and season stats! PRH gohomephilly.com

Row Home Remembers PSports RH

Take Your Building Supply Shopping Experience to the Next Level!

C&R BUILDING SUPPLY

KOBE BRYANT by Stephen Pagano photo courtesy of Lower Merion School District “It is not often in life you see pure greatness. I was lucky enough to have a front row seat to it for four years. He pushed me as a coach to be better and I pushed him right back. It was a beautiful, winning combination for which I will forever be grateful. Our Aces motto is ‘hard work, dedication, results.’ No one did it any better,” said Gregg Downer, head basketball coach of Lower Merion High School, who coached Kobe Bryant from 1992-1996, when the Aces won a State Championship. Kobe was born in Philadelphia. He was the son of former NBA player, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant. When Kobe was six years old, the Bryant family moved to Italy as Joe Bryant pursued basketball in the pro leagues. Kobe learned how to speak fluent Italian and his love for the game of basketball grew. At age12, he played in the Sonny Hill League which helps young Philadelphians learn and grow in the game of basketball. The league was significant in the development of his career. As a freshman at Lower Merion, Kobe played on the varsity team, earning national recognition for his performance as a basketball sensation. He finished his high school career as the Southeastern Pennsylvania all-time leading scorer and was recruited by an abundance of top colleges. He ultimately chose to enter the NBA at just 17 years old – straight out of high school. He played his entire 20-season professional career in the League with the Los Angeles Lakers – his favorite team as a kid. On January 26th, Kobe Bryant, 41, his daughter Gianna,13, and seven others were killed in a helicopter accident in California. The Black Mamba will always be remembered for his preparation and dedication to the game and his love for his family. Kobe once said, “The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great at whatever they want to do.” PRH

CONTRACTORS ONE STOP SHOP Products We Carry To Meet Your Needs!!!

Stock/Custom Windows & Doors Kitchen & Bath Cabinets Plywood & Lumber Products Metal Studs Pressure Treated Lumber Timbertech Decking Azek Mouldings & Boards

Custom-Made Wood Stairs Paints & Hardware Pine & Oak Boards Insulation Ceiling Tile Engineered Lumber Tools & More !!!

60,000 SF New Facility! 12,000 SF Of Hardware Store! 2,000 SF Show Room! Full Service Drive Thru Lumberyard!

Benjamin Moore Paint! Free Customer Parking! Daily Specials!

215.462.0505

www.crbuildingsupply.com DELIVERY AVAILABLE Hours: Mon-Fri. 7am – 5pm Saturday 8am – 1pm SOUTH PHILADELPHIA 1600-30 Washington Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19146

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 85

PRHGREENSP CE

4River

A purposeful organization dedicated to protecting and preserving rivers

4River inspired student artwork by Ava D’Alfonso from The Preparatory Charter School

by RACHEL PORTER

hiladelphia is known for its historic landmarks and modern attractions but there’s an unfortunate blemish on the landscape - plastic polluting our local rivers. Robert Molinaro, founder of 4River, an organization dedicated to removing plastic debris from the local waterways, notes that the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers are known to be ‘two major arteries’ of transportation to and from the city. Sadly, these once pristine channels flanking the city are now marred by the ever-encroaching plastic problem. But who exactly is Molinaro and how is his organization tackling the problem? Molinaro describes himself as “…an outdoorsman and an avid environmentalist.” About three years ago, Molinaro was out fishing with his longtime friend, Timothy D’Alfonso, when they really started to take notice of the rapidly growing plastic problem in the local waterways. That was when they decided to take action. Little by little, they cleaned up what they could every time they went out fishing. Molinaro notes that this was not an unusual task for him. He has been cleaning up trash and debris

from natural habitats for as long as he can remember. “If I ever saw any type of garbage, I’d pick it up. It comes from a concern for the environment.” When he learned about 4Ocean, an organization with a similar concept, Molinaro was even more inspired to pitch in and make a difference. “It hit me being in a coffee shop in Old City one day that if people are doing things for the ocean, why can’t we do something for the rivers?” After all, plastic finds its way into the ocean via rivers. If plastic pollution can be reduced – or even stopped – at its source, we could come up with a solution to this problem. And, it’s a problem of serious consequence, Molinaro explains. It is predicted that by the year 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Not to mention the hazardous micro-plastics that enter our food chain and the harmful greenhouse emissions that are released into the atmosphere. With D’Alfonso already on board, Molinaro reached out to his business partner and longtime friend, Daniel Cronin, to collaborate. Through their companies, Chorus Communications, Inc and Metrospect Events, Inc., they

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

formulated the resources to introduce 4River and its mission of protecting the environment to the community. 4River officially launched on Earth Day 2019 and the team now consists of six dedicated members including Amy Servis, Justin Joy and Michele Ryan. As they approach their oneyear anniversary, they proudly report they have organized several sponsored cleanups on both the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. As the warmer months approach, the team will once again ramp up efforts to find sponsorship for more cleanup events throughout the region. While raising awareness and organizing cleanups is a top priority, the hyperfocus is on children. 4River asserts that the future of this planet lies with them. “Children are going to make the difference because in our minds, children affect the parents’ behavior,” Molinaro says. 4River fundamentally believes that changing behaviors and leading by example are both key components in making an impact and young people are the perfect conduit for this process. You can check out their calendar of events for upcoming children’s activities and educational opportunities at 4River.org. PRH

gohomephilly.com

PRHWRITERSBLOCK The

reassuring

“Angel”

Memories of a

Vietnam Vet by C harlie Sacchetti

e only saw her for a few minutes, but she earned a place in his heart, forever. Ed Hochberger, my friend and co-worker of more than 30 years, was only 20 years old when he arrived in Dau Tieng, Vietnam, on New Year’s Day, 1968. As a draftee, he served his Basic Training at Ft. Knox, Kentucky, and Advanced Individual Training at Ft. Polk, Louisiana. Being a highly intelligent young man, the Army thought him to be a good candidate

W R I T E R S B LO C K

for Officer’s Candidate School and Eddie was more than willing to attend. Fate took a turn when after 15 weeks of the 23-week course, the Army decided there was an overabundance of Second Lieutenants, the rank earned by O.C.S. grads. In its “infinite wisdom,” they decided to abruptly end the candidacy of many of the students and Eddie was one of those cut. Being infantry trained, with the rank of Specialist 4th class, Eddie would be assigned to serve on an Armored Personnel Carrier in the 25th Division, 22nd Battalion, Bravo Company, and was sent on his way to Vietnam. To call the vehicles “armored” was a bit of a stretch. They were built for speed. When you are moving troops through hostile territory, you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible. So, that meant these vehicles were constructed of mostly aluminum, the lightweight metal ideal for providing speedy trips. However, there was a big tradeoff. The aluminum offered practically no protection to the occupants

and should one be hit by a Rocket Propelled Grenade or detonate a landmine, the results were usually deadly to those inside. This fact caused the crew assigned to the vehicle, 8 to 10 soldiers, to find it safer to ride on the roof as they deployed to the next assignment. By now, Eddie was in his third week “in country.” This day, his carrier would be part of a group of eight others as they all departed in single file on the joint mission. After a mile or so, the lead vehicle was hit and immobilized while driving into an ambush and all of the following vehicles were stymied on the narrow road. About to engage in a fierce firefight, the soldiers jumped off of the roofs to take up their firing positions. As Eddie jumped off, he was shot in the right calf. With his leg mangled and unable to stand, he rolled under his vehicle and fired his weapon until it jammed. He was hit by a sniper who inflicted multiple casualties until he was “neutralized” when four of Eddie’s buddies emptied their rifles into nearby trees where the sniper set up. As the firefight continued, Eddie did his best to stay conscious, wig-

gling his toes to reassure himself that his leg was still attached and working. It all went blank moments later and Eddie found himself on a chopper to a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. As he faded in and out of consciousness, he arrived at the hospital in Cu Chi. After being carried into the surgical tent, with his leg shattered and the shock of the injury overcoming the adrenalin rush, he was anything but calm. His mind was racing in every direction and he was truly lost in this frightening moment. And that’s when he saw her. Army nurse, 24-year-old Ann Cunningham, approached Eddie with a tenderness that served to chase away the demons. Gently cutting away his bloodied pant leg, she spoke in a way that was angelic in its calming and reassuring tone. He could only see her eyes due to her surgical mask, but that was enough. In this time of desperation, she had been his gentle savior. He would never see her again. Fast-forward about 30 years. I was given the privilege to have Eddie become one of my guys. As district sales manager of our Industrial Chemical Company, I would work closely with him as he serviced the Lancaster County territory. At the time, I knew Eddie was a wounded Vietnam Vet but was not privy to the whole story. He always amazed me in a couple of ways. He had wonderful product knowledge and his demean-

or made him a welcomed visitor to his customers. More interestingly, he was always calm. He never showed signs of stress, even when things weren’t going real well for whatever reason. In hindsight, I now understand that compared to his ordeal as a youthful soldier, normal aggravation was a piece of cake (or should I say shoofly pie). But, recently, he shared with me something he did to deal with the stress of everyday life. When times were tough, he thought of Army Nurse Ann Cunningham and those lovely, calming eyes that came upon him at his most vulnerable moment. Just remembering that brief interaction gave him peace. A few months ago, for some unknown reason, Eddie decided to do a Google search on that lady who had given him so much in only a matter of minutes. He found that Ann had passed away in 2007 at the age of 63. She had died in Lexington, Kentucky, ironically, while attending a reunion of the Army’s 25th Division. She had become an accomplished surgical nurse and the Director of Perioperative Services for the Cardiac Surgery West Medical Group in Sacramento, California, before moving to the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and working at the University of Virginia Hospital. She retired in 2006. I would only hope that she somehow realized the gift that she was to my friend. PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 87

BARBERSHOP TALK

BARBERSHOPTALKHFD.ORG

HARRY ALESSI

Real Estate Sales

1033 N. 2nd Street 5th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19123 Office: 215-400-2600 Cell: 609-636-9783 HarrySellsPhilly@gmail.com

Surgeons

in Action Prove We all Bleed Red

accessphilly.com

Construction LLC

From planning to completion. All your contracting needs begin here. Licensed & Insured

215-399-7732 88

W R I T E R S B LO C K

PeterBUILT

arbers were the original surgeons and doctors. Ticinius Mena, a Roman Senator, was the first to introduce the custom of barbering in 296 BC. The red and white stripes on the barber’s pole are recognized around the world. They represent bandages and blood. This brings to mind Surgeon and Scientist Joseph Lister, known as the “Father of Antiseptic Surgery.” He rewrote all of the medical books that made doctors aware of the damages of bacteria. He instructed them to wash their hands and clean their instruments, which helped prevent the spreading of many bacteria that caused infection. Today, surgeons hold their hands up above the waist and below the neckline, after they have scrubbed to prevent contamination. They keep their sanitized hands in view at all times. Barbering has always fascinated me because the Barber Surgeon trained students in performing surgery via “Guilds.” As times changed, many doctors decided to attend college to get a degree. In the classrooms, students performed surgery on cadavers and didn’t practice washing their hands before surgery. In the early 1900s, there was an influenza epidemic and these unsanitary practices contributed to its worldwide spread. Keep in mind that the barber surgeons always washed their hands before operating. They understood that bacteria could kill their living patients.

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

by Robert L. Woodard The Wynnefield Barber Discovery after discovery, many doctors have contributed to improving medical history and those who practice medicine. I was privileged to interview Dr. Suzanne De La Monte. She discovered in her laboratory that Alzheimer’s disease was caused by a lack of insulin to the brain. She described it as diabetes of the brain. There’s also Dr. Avery August from Cornell University, who discovered a disease called Epigenetics. Epigenetics travels through time and affects people who have been traumatized. The damages of trauma are passed on to their offspring, going back centuries. Let’s not forget Dr. Bennet Omalu. He discovered a disease called CTE, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, caused by trauma to the head, to which many NFL players have been exposed. I am privileged to say that I have interviewed and spoken personally with these doctors and surgeons. I am also proud to say that barbering played a big part in the history and health of doctors and surgeons. One of the beautiful parts about surgery is that we as human beings all bleed red. Keep in mind, there’s only ‘One Race’ called ‘Human,’ with ‘Many Cultures’ and there’s only ‘One Color’ called ‘Melanin,’ with ‘Many Shades.’ Take the “RACE Test” today, for a better way at www.BarbershopTalkHFD.org. PRH Woodard’s Barbershop, 5031 Diamond Street, is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network. gohomephilly.com

PRHWRITERSBLOCK

e The Teenag Years

g n

u D drif f Mi Tops & Pan zero t by Debbie Russino

he phrase, “Youth is wasted on the young,” is an understatement. We we were naïve back then and didn’t have a clue about life. The teenage years are the most carefree times in a person’s life with no responsibilities or worries. Our social life was the main focus of our existence and I was fortunate to have a great group of friends. They say you never forget the neighborhood kids you grew up with. I agree. I really don’t delve into the past very often but when I do, I just can’t help but feel happy about being a teenager in the ’70s. I may be biased but I happen to think we were super cool. We wore platform shoes, big bell bottom dungarees, midriff tops and hot pants.The most popular haircut was the shag and everyone had it, even the guys. They were the days of standing on corners to socialize. We hung out on 11th & Ritner that would later merge with 9th & Wolf. Everyone was associated with a street name back then. As an adult, I look back at some of the mischievous things we did and although we were annoying, our immature acts pale in comparison to the horrors kids are capable of today. Disagreements and fights were handled with fists rather than knives and guns. It was mostly innocent, but we certainly were not thinking about the people we were disturbing at night when they needed to sleep and go to work the next day. We all congregated on the steps of a grocery store. I feel bad when I think about how we must have tortured the owners who lived upstairs. We went to a neighborhood pizza place to buy panzerottis and then sat on the steps of one of the four corners to eat them. Sometimes, we’d walk to Tally Ann’s Bakery and buy a bag of warm rolls right out of the oven and devour them. They were delicious! We walked around for hours and never got

r a

s e e

OREGON WINDOW CO., Inc.

tired. We ate whatever we wanted and never gained weight. In the winter, we wore low cut, skin-tight pants, skimpy tops and little jackets. We never felt cold because we were young and didn’t have enough sense to know better. Music was a huge part of my childhood. My first concert was Chicago. The Spectrum was the place to be in the ’70s and ’80s. Teenagers crammed this stadium to get lost in the world of music. There were many venues back then and I do believe I’ve been to all of them. Aerosmith, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, Billie Joel, Elton John, Madonna. I couldn’t get enough. I was anxious to learn the newest dance or hear the latest hit song. Music was in my soul from a very young age and always will be part of me. I was a diehard rock and roll girl and one of the last to turn over to disco. My friends teased me about it, saying ‘Debbie is still listening to Peter Frampton.’ I am still happy to admit that. I have so many fond memories of the teenage years. Life was simple. My biggest worry was what outfit I was going to wear that night, which led to another favorite pasttime. I loved searching for unique items and accessories at thrift stores long before they were in fashion. Today, they call them consignment shops. Second Hand Rose was my favorite vintage store back in the day. When I walked in, I felt as though I had traveled back in time. I was hooked! Although I had a blast in the ’70s and wore the styles well, nowadays I gravitate toward the throwback fashions of the 1940s and ’50s. I guess you can call me an old soul. These are some of the fond memories I have of the crazy, hazy days of the 1970s and a small excerpt from the book Lou Pinto and I are writing together called “50 Shades Of Gravy...Our Saucy Adventures of Being South Philly Born And Raised.” PRH

Serving the Philadelphia area for 4 generations

267.439.0779 GiovannisItalianCatering.com Mention ROWHOME Magazine & Receive 10% OFF Catering

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 89

by DAVID W. CAVA

PRH WRITERS BLOCK

Fighting for

Transparency

itting there in the emergency room, I know your uncle was talking to me but I wasn’t entirely sure what he was saying. Lost in clouds of thought, I jumped at the sight of the doctor as she made her way over to me. Solemnly, she explained that your heart had stopped as a result of being splashed by the medication they had given your mom to help with her eclamptic seizures. Let me tell you, your head clears pretty fast when a doctor is explaining life and death scenarios of your wife and kids. She assured me you and your brother were doing well and I caught a glimpse of you all wired up as they rushed you past on the way to the neonatal unit for additional testing. I can’t tell you why, but I immediately knew two things. The first was that you were going to be just fine and secondly, that you, girl, are a fighter! I wrote this for my daughter to read while she was on a mandatory high school weekend retreat a few years ago. Like most parents, we love the crap out of our children and will do anything to keep them safe, healthy and happy. That means doing what we can to protect them from the things that go bump in the night, while providing them with support and guidance when the bump is more than just a bump and the lessthan-perfect seeps into their lives. Sadly, statistics show that between three to four people die of overdose every day in Philadelphia. Those numbers are staggering. Back in February, South Philly residents mobilized against a supervised injection site that was set to operate out of the Constitution Health Plaza on South Broad Street. It’s one thing if the project was properly vetted and explained to the community, but it wasn’t. The mayor of our great city often talks about transparency, but in the case of the

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

nation’s first supervised injection site operating out of a South Philly neighborhood, he and Safehouse decided it was best to do things secretly. Residents banded together and put an immediate stop to the opening. Safehouse would now like to focus on meeting with the community. Pretty good idea and one that should have been thought of before trying to pull a fast one on the residents of South Philly. I would like to believe that people who are willing to go to a supervised injection site are more likely to accept treatment towards recovery. There are a number of drug and alcohol treatment centers in and around Philadelphia. Making it easier for the addict to do illegal drugs seems counterproductive. Yet, there is proof that clean needles and access to health professionals in case of an overdose can save lives. We all love our children, families and friends and if any of them faced a battle against addiction, we’d want the very best help towards a path to recovery. But opening a supervised injection site in the cover of night without any thought about how the residents felt was stone cold wrong. Covert actions and decisions made behind a veil of secrecy is not a way to achieve success in Philadelphia. The doctors that treated my family at the most critical time of their lives kept me informed and explained how they were going to proceed. I had to give them my consent for many of the procedures prior to them taking action – something the city should have done first. Open and honest dialogue may help calm fears of increased violence and criminal activity in and around the area. Promoting discussion means not just explaining, but also listening — to the real concerns of everyone living in these areas. South Philadelphians are fighters, especially when it concerns our families. PRH gohomephilly.com

PRHWRITERSBLOCK

Meet the PRH Team!

Mark Casasanto

St. Anthony

Writer

When did you start working for RowHome? I’m close to one of the original dinosaurs, here... ummm maybe 2007?

Padua

How did you discover RowHome? Actually, they found me. I was coaching an upstart soccer team that won a city soccer championship. My future intern, Steve Ziegler, did a story on us. That was the start of something big in many ways. Name a story you’ ve written for RowHome that makes you proud. I was so very fortunate to have access to Frank Sinatra, Jr., for about 45 minutes. It was him, Sid Mark, Merrill Kelem and myself sitting in a conference room talking about “growing up Sinatra” and his years on the road as his dad’s musical director. It was quite the surreal experience and I think it shone through in the article. Did you grow up in Philly or live here at some point? What neighborhood? Grew up at 19th & Wolf, then later Girard Estates, 20th & Porter, to raise a family. Who was your best friend growing up? My next-door neighbor, John Battista. The stories we can tell. What’s your favorite quote? “There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” - President Ronald Reagan

Regional Catholic School What’s your favorite row home memory? We were a very musical family. Pianos, drums, congas... you name it. And we all sang. It was my dad’s birthday on December 26th and what started as an impromptu jam session soon turned into a house full of friends and relatives singing, dancing, eating and drinking until the early morning bright. They literally started showing up from everywhere. At one point, even a SEPTA bus on Rt 17 stopped in the middle of 19th Street to check it all out! What got you into writing? Joined the school paper, The Rocket, while at St. John Neumann HS at the urging of Fr. Edward Gabriel. Eventually, became editor-in-chief. As for Fr. Gabe, by far responsible for everything I know about writing, public speaking and PR work.

Administered by St. Nicholas of Tolentine &

Annunciation B.V.M. Parishes

“Educating Our Future One Child at a Time” A rigorous Pre-K (3 year old) to 8th Grade Academic Program, administered by Religious Teachers

Filippini

What other sites/magazines/ papers do you/did you write for? I’ve done mostly corporate newsletters. But have been an editor and writer for The Sinatra Social Society, contributor for Philadelphia Public Record and Order Sons of Italy Magazine. Favorite memory with RowHome Magazine? That’s a hard one. There are so many. But it’s either the time Dawn took Dorette and me to Harry’s Occult Shop to have our shoes sprayed and washed to rid ourselves of negative energies, then slipping on the hardwood floors at the office because of the oil. Or, dressing up as a chubby-ass pirate to deliver notifications to the Blue Sapphire Award winners. Imagine me, dressed in full pirate regalia, running through the streets of South Philly and Center City saying, “Aye me matey!” Reality TV at its worst!

& Qualified and dedicated lay teachers & staff

913 Pierce Street Philadelphia, PA 19148 Currently taking registrations for the

2020-2021 School year Call for a school tour with Principal,

Sr. Mary Esther 215-468-0353 www . stanthonyofpaduarcs . org

Are you on Instagram? Onthecornermark PRH

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 91

De Fino Law Associates, P.C. Don’t Settle for Less

PRHWRITERSBLOCK

A Mighty Message MIGHTY CONGRATS to the winner of the first Mighty Writers writing contest (and a $100 gift card!): LYDIA HEATWOLE, age 10, a student regular at MW CAMDEN.

The Candle Burns Out 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

by Lydia Heatwole

Attorney at Law

Sickness It hangs over you like a raincloud that never disappears

Areas of Practice

Kids at school are whispering about something called the…coronavirus starting to haunt my life

•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

In the store, toilet paper and hand sanitizer are flying off the shelves like migrating geese Around me, schools are closing, fast, but mine stays open, for now, not forever My grandparents come to my house but have to leave, because of the virus My mom flies to a conference in Texas. After she gets there it gets canceled, because of the virus That weekend, my school closes, now looking sad and abandoned, no people walking in or out We have to learn at home, feeling cramped in our house with five people in it. Thankfully, we could still take daily walks to the park The mayor announces that all parks are closing. We grieve, the park was a part of our body getting ripped off We still manage to find a way, a small gap in the gate - it takes the place of the gap in our heart

Construction & Improvements LLC slrconstruction4@gmail.com Licensed and Insured

215-669-7248 215-260-0748 92

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

The park opens, but now police cars are everywhere you look, like worms after a rain My siblings and I are getting antsy, and are fighting like angry hornets, caught and can’t escape My community is torn apart, practicing social distancing is tiring work, especially for the kids The only way I can see my friends is through Google Meet, thank God for technology in this time My cousin’s birthday was canceled, she was going to New York, hope was flattened like a pancake Even though my birthday is in June, it will possibly be canceled, the candle of hope is slowly burning out There is no idea how long this will last, but we know one thing, the coronavirus is hell Will your child be the next winner? While kids are home from school, MW is sponsoring weekly writing contests. Submit your poem (bring it to a lunch site, text, email, or tag @mightywriters on social media) & you could win a $100 gift card! gohomephilly.com

PRHSCHOOLYARD

Joseph M. McColgan

President, Ss. Neumann-Goretti High School

SNG

Makes a seamless transition from classrooms to virtual lessons SS John Neumann-Maria Goretti High School is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome Magazine (PRH) Business Network.

reetings from 10th and Moore! I hope you are doing well and are safe in these chaotic times. In an unprecedented move as a result of the coronavirus, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, along with the School District of Philadelphia, made the right decision to remove our children from the schools and to continue their academic instruction from home. I can say - without any doubt - the teachers and students, staff and administrators at Neumann-Goretti rose to the occasion. For a moment, consider this. It is a beautiful, normal, Friday afternoon. You are educating more than 500 students in the exceptional manner students and parents have grown accustomed, and then, with 2-hours’ notice, you are told the building is shutting down at the end of the day for a period to last at least two weeks. All academic instruction will now take place remotely. You have 48 hours to figure out how to accomplish this monumental task placed in front of you. You need to explain the exercise at hand to 26 teachers and 516 students AND be present and ready by Tuesday morning. Makes for an interesting weekend to say the least. Now for me, having a very diverse background and being in situations where leadership was and is paramount, I can say

that everyone – students, faculty, staff and administration – shined bright! By Tuesday morning, 98 percent of our student body had logged-in, were present and ready to go. This could not have been accomplished without leadership, direction, understanding and cooperation from all involved. My hat goes off to students who may have been overwhelmed out of the gate, but stood tall in the face of adversity and shined bright; the teachers – THE BEST TEACHERS ANY STUDENT COULD HAVE – who did not miss a beat and made for a smooth and seamless transition to remote learning; the staff who, even though were asked to stay home, showed up to lend a hand in whatever way they could; finally to the administrative team, without question, there is no better administrative team than you! Our students and their parents/guardians owe you a BIG “thank you,” as do I. You make me proud to be part of this team. As I write this, we are only in Day #4 of this exercise and we all hope and pray that we can, sometime very soon, get back to normalcy and have our entire SNG community return to 10th and Moore. Until then, the SNG community wishes you and all of South Philadelphia, good health. You are in our prayers. Until next time. PRH

ENROLL TODAY!

WE ARE

RESEARCHERS NURSES MUSICIANS JOURNALISTS CONSULTANTS PURSUING EXCELLENCE DRIVEN BY PURPOSE PUSHING THE LIMITS EPIDEMIOLOGISTS AUTHORS ANIMATORS PSYCHOLOGISTS CLERGY

CEOS ENGINEERS PHARMACISTS LAWYERS ACCOUNTANTS ENTREPRENEURS PHOTOGRAPHERS POLITICIANS BANKERS GEOLOGISTS ARCHITECTS DENTISTS SCIENTISTS

SURGEONS MECHANICS SCREENWRITERS DANCERS DESIGNERS CAREGIVERS VOLUNTEERS FIREFIGHTERS VETERINARIANS REPORTERS SECRETARIES ADMINISTRATORS COMPOSERS

PEDIATRICIANS ANALYSTS MECHANICS TEACHERS INVENTORS POLICE OFFICERS RADIOLOGISTS PUBLIC OFFICIALS SOCIAL WORKERS CARPENTERS ELECTRICIANS CHEFS ARTISTS

SAINTS NEUMANN GORETTI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

April / May / June 2020

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE | 93

BUSINESS NETWORK DIRECTORY

Shop Local / Support Local Automotive Services

SPST - South Philly Sports Training

Legal Services

Professional Automotive Service 2023 S. Percy St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.551.7559

1401 S. 25th Street Phila, PA 19146 215.767.8103 www.southphillysportstraining.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

_____________________________

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

_____________________________

Gym / Fitness PHL Athletics

2017 S. Juniper St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.778.3259 phlathletics.com

Here for your Baseball, Softball and Fitness Training Needs!

_____________________________

Perry deMarco, Jr. Esq.

_____________________________

Home Improvement

Medical

267.688.4879

Commercial & Residential

2432 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.2999 www.Drdenisetdadamo.com

_____________________________

3310 S. 20th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.467.4431 pennsportpt@gmail.com www.pennsportpt.com

Novello Contracting

_____________________________ Nunzio Fortuna Rooﬁng, Inc. Rooﬁng / Siding / Gutters / Downspouts 3rd generation in Business Licensed & Insured Free Estimates 215.468.8396

Ritner Hardware

1641 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.4927

_____________________________ Posh Painting by Rita llc. Rita CocciaTrombetta 856.986.0252 inﬁnity4367@yahoo.com

_____________________________

Home Services

Dr. Denise D’Adamo DC

_____________________________ Pennsport Physical Therapy

_____________________________

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

We rid your pests so you can rest

Real Estate

CPR Restoration

Restoration & cleaning service Fire/Smoke/Water/Mold 215.704.4958 www.cprrestoration.com

FBI Pest Control

info@fbipestcontrol.com Frank Fioravanti, route supervisor 2909 S Franklin St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.768.1804 www.termitecontrolphiladelphia.com

_____________________________

Philip's Moving & Removal Services No job too big or small. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates. 215.500.3903 www.PhilipsMovingandRemoval.com

_____________________________ Fetterman Design Group, LLC. 211 East Palmer Ave Collingswood, NJ 08108 856.264.6816 www.fettermandesigngroup.com

_____________________________

Restaurants

Anthony's Italian Coffee House

Insurance Services

903 & 905 S. 9th St. Phila., PA 19147 215.627.2586 anthony@italiancoffeehouse.com www.anthonysonline.com

Kim Troast-Singley 2700 S. 18th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.339.0333

Delivery & Takeout 2655 S. Juniper St. 267.639.3792

_____________________________ Troast-Singley Insurance Agency, LLC

_____________________________

Jewelers

Olivieri Jewelers

2523 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 215.336.1130 www.dolivierijewelers.com

_____________________________ Antney's Grub

Home of the SIRCRABAGUS, FRAB FRIES & Antney's TEXAS WIENERS Burgers / Steaks / Fries / Beef / Pork & more!

Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday 11 am-9pm

_____________________________ Caffe Chicco

Voted Best of Philly 2017 / Roast Beef Sandwich

2532 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.334.3100

Join the PRH Business Network!

Call Carol at 215.462.9777 or info@gohomephilly.com

Stogie Joe's Tavern

1801 E. Passyunk Ave Philadelphia, PA 19148 215-463-3030 stogiejoestavern@hotmail.com www.stogiejoestavern.net

_____________________________

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

_____________________________ Cannuli’s Sausage

1640 Ritner St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.468.7997

_____________________________ 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

Travel Services

Swan Caterers

Your boutique travel company Gina Casella / Founder & President 917.514.5566 info@atescapes.com www.atescapes.com facebook.com/AdrianaTrigianiTours

24th & Passyunk

_____________________________ 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

_____________________________

Tattoo Artist

Michael DiGiacomo Tattoo One Five

Custom Tattooing & Art Gallery

815 S 4th Street 215.644.9444 www.Midigi121.wixsite.com/yojockamo Facebook.com/yojockamo

At Escapes

_____________________________ Travel with Pam Draper

Full Service Agent 856.956.3532 TravelWithPamDraper@gmail.com www.TravelWithPamDraper.com

Sisters’

Edge

D E S S E PR Sheltering in Place

P RHPRESSED

ta Jackson By Dorette Ro

’m sitting here binge-watching repeats of Criminal Minds to cheer myself up between Breaking News updates on the coronavirus. It’s a lot less stressful than the real life images flashing across the television screen. You should have been here the other night when Dawn made hubby Mike’s lunch for work. ‘What stinks? I think this tuna is bad. Taste it.’ Why would I want to taste bad tuna that stinks? More importantly, why would she want me to taste bad tuna that stinks? As she opens the second can of ‘bad’ tuna, I figure it out. ‘Clams. You’re opening cans of clams. Same yellow can but definitely not tuna. Where are your glasses?’ ‘I can’t see,’ she snorts as she’s doubled over. ‘He’s getting a clam sandwich for lunch tomorrow! Haaaaaa. He would kill me!’ I’m laughing so hard I can’t breathe. Dawn’s on a rant. ‘What is happening? I feel like I’m losing my mind! They shut the world down in 5 days and they think this is easy? People are dropping dead in the streets on TV. We’re fist fighting over toilet paper. I bought Ninja Turtle wipes from a 12-yearold in front of the Acme. Five bucks apiece.’ While she’s cracking up, I cut myself a nice piece of next-door neighbor Andrea’s butter pound. The best in all the land. I can tell this is gonna be a looooong night. Sheltering in place. We are fa-mi-ly… Our nerves are so bad, they’d call us Sisters’ Edge. Dawn’s still ranting. ‘Where’s the Federal Bill that says we’ll pay everything and you can back into it as soon as you get on your feet? Why don’t they sign that Bill into place? ‘It’s all good. I’m calm,’ she tries to convince herself after every breaking news report. ‘There’s a message we are all supposed to get from

this tragedy. You know what message I got from all this? Broken crayons work. Nobody’s perfect!’ ‘We need each other to fill in the blanks. You do something I don’t do. I know something you don’t know. Let’s all work together and do really great things. ‘I hope people learned something from this. What’s the message you take away from all this?’ She corners me at the fridge. I recall seeing some Haagen Dazs butter pecan. Perfect with Andrea’s butter pound, I think to myself. I’m accustomed to Dawn’s pacing. It’s sudden. Unpredictable. You never see it coming. Just let it roll and go about your business as usual. I’m sitting at the table trying to post all the updates our local businesses are sharing with us. ‘Can I post this one to my facebook page,’ Dawn asks as she holds up her cellphone. ‘It’s a little Chihuahua. He’s saying ‘every time I feel a little tickle in my throat, I say, is that you, Rona?’ Hahaaaa! Get it!’ I stare at her. I don’t get it. She shows me the pic of the little dog, again, from her social distance across the living room. ‘Rona! As in Co-Rona…’ ‘That’s why you don’t like facebook. You don’t get it. It’s a little funny. We have to do something to break the tension. How about this one of Pooh? It says, Back the fk up, Piglet! Hahaaaaaaa!! Social distancing!’ You can’t post that one, I tell her. You can’t curse. ‘Oh, that ship sailed long ago. I’ve cursed on Facebook before… It’s only been a week. It seems like months. How long can we sit in the house?’

Lockdown – the next night … Dawn hollers downstairs for me to come up. ‘We can watch this movie Aunt Loretta

| ROWHOME MAGAZINE |April / May / June 2020

by DORETTE ROTA JACKSON

told me about. Green Book. It’s from Pixar, I think…no, Dreamworks…I like Dreamworks… Hurry up before it starts.’ I have no interest in the movie, I think to myself. But that’s selfish of me. We’re cloistered in this house. I can at least watch a movie with my sister. I settle on the couch – 6 feet from the couch she’s sitting on – adhering to the social distancing guidelines. She’s wrapped in the blue & gray nutcracker blanket. Fleece. It’s way too hot for fleece, I think to myself. But I say nothing, The movie based on a true story begins. 1962 New York. African American classical/ jazz pianist Dr. Don Shirley hires Frank “Tony Lip” Vallelonga to chauffer him on a concert tour across the Deep South for two months. Just as the movie starts, Dawn decides it’s a good time to check on her friend Nancy. She’s talking on her cellphone. Loudly. I strain to hear the movie dialogue. I shoot her the “stare.” She ignores me. I think to myself, ‘Why would you call me upstairs to watch a movie if you’re going to talk on the phone.’ But I say nothing. Ten minutes later, she hangs up. ‘What’s happening? Who’s he? Did I miss a lot?’ I think to myself, ‘you’re kidding me, right? This is painful.’ But I say nothing. She jumps up and tosses the fleece blanket. ‘It’s hot in here. I have to get these sweatpants off before I throw up. My nerves are bad.’ She returns to her spot on the couch in a long t-shirt. Three minutes later, she’s snoring. For two hours. Wakes up just as the credits roll. ‘What did I miss?’ she asks all squinty-eyed as I head to bed at 2 am. Yep. I see a lot of long nights ahead. Be safe, everyone. And be kind. We can do this. PRH

gohomephilly.com

The qualities I most admire in women are confidence and kindness. —Oscar de la Renta

Make your appointments now for Hair, Makeup & Eyelash Extensions for your upcoming events!

Flawless Skin

Sultry Lashes

Glamorous Highlights & Glosses

Sensual Curls

Elegant Upstyles

Enchanting Makeup

17th & Oregon Avenue, Philadelphia | 215.389.8100 W W W . T H E C U T T I N G P O I N T S A L O N . C O M “Like us” on Facebook

“Follow us” on Instagram

experience Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Wedding Brand

ExperienceCescaphe.com