Winter 2025

INSIDETHIS ISSUE

25_SALUTE TO SERVICE

An Affair to Remember XVII

2024 Blue Sapphire Awards Gala A recap of the most exciting night of the year!

photos by Andrew Andreozzi

49_REAL ESTATE

SLR Construction & Improvements

Building dreams for 40 years Slrconstruction4@gmail.com

57_MENU

Reflections: A Young Widower’s Journey Through Loss, Hope and Healing

Local author, Dominic Condo, captures love, grief, and healing in this personal memoir by Jamie Flowers

80_TRAVEL

Wine & Dine your way through Portugal by Victoria Draper, Owner of Travel with Pam Draper

86_MUSIC & ARTS

George Martorano: From Prison to the Big Screen by Maria Merlino

SALUTE TO SERVICE

REGULARS

6_PUBLISHER’S PAGE

Food. Family. Traditions. There’s no better way to start the New Year!

14_ON THE CORNER

Yes, Chef! by Mark Casasanto

45_HEALTH

An Unending Conversation with Hope When all that is left of me is love, give it away by Dorthi DiGilio deansmom.org

52_TIPS FROM THE PROS

Law & Order

Pardon me by Frank C. DePasquale Jr., Esq.

65_THE MENU

Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce courtesy of Robert Passio Lombardi’s Prime Meats

72_BRIDES GUIDE

Mr. & Mrs. Palladino

Love at The Lucy is the icing on the cake by Joe Volpe

85_MUSIC & ARTS

Philly 45s: Young Americans

David Bowie heads to Philly’s Sigma Sound Studios to cut this classic by Geno Thackara

96_PRESSED

Time to Clean out your Closet by Dorette Rota Jackson

Founder & President David Feldman persevered in his dream to make Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship the premier combat sport in the world -bringing the excitement to his hometown Philadelphia. Read all about the fight card for this main event inside this issue. For tickets or viewing information, visit BKFC.com.

See page

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrew Andreozzi

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Theresa Palestino

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Michael Rhoades

Mark Casasanto

David Cava

Joei DiSanto

Frank DePasquale Jr., Esq

Victoria DiPietro

Jamie Flowers

Larry Gallone

Brett Jackson

Matt Kelchner

Maria Merlino

John Nacchio

Vincent R. Novello, Jr.

Stephen Pagano

Philadelphia RowHome Inc.

P.O. Box 54786, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Phone – 215.462.9777 www.gohomephilly.com Facebook.com/PhiladelphiaRowHomeMagazine Twitter.com/RowHomeMag Instagram.com/RowHomeMag

from the PUBLISHERS

Tradition Food. Family. Traditions.

mum·mer | ˈməmər/ noun

a performer in a pantomime; broadly: actor. 2. one who goes merrymaking in disguise during festivals

Happy New Year!

We were so fortunate to have grown up around the corner from the start of the New Year. 12th & Mifflin. We’d wake to the sound of trumpets and banjos making their way down 12th Street to Oregon Avenue – where it all began. The Mummers Day Parade! High winds. Low temps. No hats. Gloves were optional. Nothing could stop us from making our way to South Broad Street. We met at Snyder Avenue then started our trek South to Methodist Hospital. Since Snyder was a hot spot back in the day, it took a while to get through the throngs of people before reaching the Southern High School side of the street.

Once you made it to Methodist Hospital at Wolf Street, you turned around and headed back to St. Agnes Hospital at McKean Street – East side – to meet up with family and wait for the String Bands. We already had a place reserved to marvel at the music that made memories for all of us!

Every year, same curbside tree marked the spot for us.

There is no finer Philadelphia TRADITION than the Mummers Day Parade, the oldest continuously running folk parade in the nation.

We know how old it is. Many of us have relatives who marched in the first parade in 1901. Generations of family members passed this torch to their sons and daughters so they, too, can keep us strutting to the music.

For us, it’s personal. For us, it’s astonishing. For us, it’s a blessing to have witnessed the commitment, the loyalty, the passion, the heart and soul of the volunteers who keep marching to the beat of the same drum for the past 124 years.

Thank you to all the Mummers out there! Whether you march, hand-stitch the costumes, spray-paint the golden slippers, build the props, motivate the masses, plan the fundraisers, or preserve the memories for future generations, we are grateful to you! We support you! We celebrate you!

Dorette & Dawn

to River. One Neighborhood.

See Mummers Museum Story on Page 24. Celebrating its 50th anniversary! mummersmuseum.org

photo by ANDREW ANDREOZZI photography

THEMAILBOX

JANUARY | FEBRUARY | MARCH 2025

EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: INFO@GOHOMEPHILLY.COM

DORETTE & DAWN:

We had a ball. Everything was so beautiful. Thank you both so much for such an amazing Award. Incredible evening, awesome Event. Wilbert 'Wil' Hart (The Delfonics) & Sheila, The Queen of Hart

DEAR DORETTE & DAWN: Wonderful night at RowHome Magazine’s Blue Sapphire Awards! Congratulations to all the Honorees and to Dorette and Dawn for their constant dedication to RowHome Magazine! Dorette and Dawn, you make nights like this possible. Maria Clause Mangano & Freddie Ganno

DORETTE & DAWN,

Keep up the positive energy and motivation that you both have for everyone. Rita Coccia Trombetta

DORETTE & DAWN,

Thank you so much for handdelivering a copy of RowHome Magazine to my mother. I called the office and spoke to Carol, who told me she was your mom. What a wonderful conversation we had. My mother did not get her magazine in the mail and asked me if I would call RowHome to let them know. As soon as I told Carol, she sent her daughters to deliver it themselves. From my family to yours, thank you for caring! South Philly neighbors are wonderful. Ed Calum

The Birthplace of Freedom Still Has

9th & Passyunk Avenue

Circa 1960. Rita Merlino of the 2600 block of Watts Street.

1950. Wedding Day for Rita & Andrew Angiolillo.

Circa 1970s. Channel 6 Reporter Cathy Gandolfo interviews James Darren.

Circa 1945. Ubaldo & Clelia Ricci in their backyard at 1728 S. Chadwick St.

1976. Dawn Retallick Rhoades & Angel Lombertino Gamber, Washington D.C. field trip.

1943. Charlie DeRose & Jimmy Durante at the Copacabana in NYC.

May 11, 1945. Anna & Joseph Bocelli on the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

1962. Andrea, Donna & Vincent Angiolillo. Easter 1967. Rosemary Pepe Casper. 1930s. Charlie DeRose, owner of Cent Anni, on the corner of 7th & Fulton.

1973. Michael Foglietta & his classmate Kevin Bacon at Masterman School.

1986. Cousins Christopher Rota & Jade Rota on their Pre-K trip to the zoo.

1960. Anthony Liberato, sister Joanne, cousin Kass & family in Aunt Rosie’s basement.

Circa 1980s. Tommy, Paul & Richie Retallick.

Circa 1940. Americo, Ubaldo & Ettore Ricci.

HANGIN

1. Hangin’ out with the Ciccone family – Desiree, Carlette, Stephan & Stephen.

2. Tony Cuffari celebrated 15 years of renewed health with his closest friends at The Capital Grille in Cherry Hill, NJ.

3. Philip Baldino & Joseph Baldino are hangin’ out with their new food truck.

4. Noelle Campolongo, RowHome Carol & Jody DellaBarba are Hangin’ Out.

5. Maria DeTheodore & her men at Union Trust.

6. Dorette & Merrill Kelem are hangin’ out at the South Philly High Alumni party at Swan Caterers’ Waterfall Room.

7. RowHome Carol (Meme) is hangin’ out with her great grandchildren Elle & Tommy.

8. RowHome writer Larry Gallone with wife Bernadette & daughter Katie are hangin’ out at a wedding in Brooklyn.

9. On the Corner Mark is hangin’ out post-show at the City Winery Philadelphia with his friend, international superstar, Patrizio Buanne.

10. Marie Elena Abbruzzi is hangin’ out at RowHome’s Blue Sapphire event with The Cutting Point stylists Dana Barone & Nicole Castelli.

11. Hangin’ Out with the DeFino family – Nella, Vincent, Nicole Rose & baby Camille.

12. Rob Moree is hangin’ out with his twin grandsons, Giovanni and Zeno. Here, he is with daughter-in-law Shana and son Robert, who is also a twin!

13. Hangin’ out with Jimmy Rossoni & Christian Sassani of Homegrown Coffee.

14. Hangin’ Out with Denise LaRosa, Maria & Adriana Siligrini.

15. Dorette is hangin’ out with Mom Carol on her birthday at Live! Casino.

16. Denise LaRosa & Co. at their annual Christmas Dinner.

17. Maria DeTheodore’s 60th Birthday at Stogie Joe’s.

18. “Life is better with a Lou (Pinto),” who is hangin’ out with his granddaughters at his South Philly High Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Yes, CHEF!

ON THE CORNER with MARK CASASANTO

The story begins in a home economics class. The mission: meet girls. Amused, Chef Robert Irvine recalls, “I never did meet the girls, but I did discover that I could get around the kitchen pretty well.”

With a passion for transforming food and using it as a vehicle to bring people together, Irvine grew his craft while a member of the British Royal Navy. “Once you’ve proven yourself in the fires of a military kitchen,” he says, “there is no ordinary civilian culinary job that will give you too much of a problem.”

Yes, you read that right. One of America’s

most beloved chefs is an Englishman. Laughing, he says, “Seriously, it’s not like I ever tried to work the accent away!”

Born just a stone’s throw away from Stonehenge, Irvine hails from Salisbury in the County of Wiltshire. “England’s the motherland, but the United States is the land of opportunity,” he says emphatically. He would know. Unrivaled in his passion, and always laser focused, Chef Irvine continues to make the most out of every opportunity. Each stage of his journey, he declares, “I worked my tail off.” And that’s part of the advice he readily shares with others. “Calculate less and focus on being great every day… the rest has a way of taking care of itself.”

photos by IAN SPANIER

Philly Philly

While he is probably best known as a celebrity chef, Robert Irvine has more levels than a head-of-state reception has fine china. Despite his forward-facing fame being delivered courtesy of the Food Network’s series like Dinner: Impossible and Restaurant: Impossible, and a cornucopia of other culinary-themed shows and appearances, these days, Chef Irvine considers himself more of an entrepreneur and philanthropist.

He’s an author, five times over, and publishes a self-titled, digital magazine that features wideranging content from recipes to workout routines. He’s been a television talk show host and has taken his show, Robert Irvine Live, on the road. In addition to being a restaurateur, his dedication to fitness and self-care has led him to producing a line of healthy snacks. FIT Crunch and his Robert Irvine Foods are responsible for producing quick, quality foods from beef snacks to crab cakes.

Still, for all the successful boxes that Irvine has checked in business, he will tell you that the best job he’s ever had “is the one I’ve got now.” He’s referring to The Robert Irvine Foundation, a philanthropic effort established in 2014 that’s devoted to creating and sustaining health, wellness, and resiliency resources for our nation’s military and first responders. “It puts me face to face with our nation’s defenders… to be able to give back in any measure, is something I wouldn’t trade for the world.”

Irvine’s dedication to recognizing needs and helping fund quality of life-sustaining items like iBot Wheelchairs for disabled veterans have not gone unnoticed. He has been welcomed as a family member into the fold of the U.S. Armed Forces. Bestowed by the Navy as an Honor ary Chief Petty Officer, he also has received amongst other prestigious awards, The Medal of Honor Society’s Bob Hope Award for Excellence in Entertainment. Pridefully, he declares, “It’s incumbent on the citizenry,” as the beneficiaries of said bravery and the often-unseen sacrifices of service and related family hardships, “to give back… and that’s exactly what we’ve been doing.”

Like all Irvine’s endeavors, portions of the proceeds from the sales of Irvine’s American Dry Gin and Irvine’s Vodka, distilled locally in Lansdale, benefit his foundation. And it’s not by coincidence that his distilling interest, Board room Spirits, sits just northwest of Philadelphia. “My COO and assistant live here. They’re great at recognizing local opportunities for me.”

With the rigorous demands of his schedule, he relishes downtime with his wife Gail Kim, (TNA Wrestling Hall of Famer and longtime WWE tal ent). “We stream a ton of stuff,” he says, yet quick to admit that he loves going to a movie theater. “There’s something wonderful about that dark room and that bright screen that demand your attention. I hope movie theaters never go away.” Then, with a wink and an intriguing smile, he sug gests, “They can use some better food. Maybe.”

Healthy theater snacks? Gourmet movie foods? With Robert Irvine, nothing is impossible

BICYCLE

WDays

hether it was a Christmas gift from Santa, a birthday present from your parents, or a hand-me-down from an older sibling, most of us will never forget our first two-wheel bicycle and the independence it gave us. For me, the best “back-in-the-day” bicycle memories occurred around the age range of 10-12, when the birthday gift of a Stingray bicycle with the banana-shaped seat and extended handlebars gave me the ability to travel out of my own four-block square whether I had permission from my parents or not. Of course, there were no helmets, elbow pads

or cell phone tracking to worry about back then. It was a different time. I was a rebel. No longer was I bound to four left turns and the pavement. That bicycle gave me the ability to travel out of the neighborhood…with wheels! Now, I was able to cross Broad Street and hang out with my cousins in their neighborhood. My friends and I would make regular trips to Pep Boys on Passyunk Avenue across from the Melrose Diner to see the new bikes for sale or buy a needed tire patch, streamers, or reflectors. Want to add a little muscle to your Stingray? No problem. Put a rubber balloon or some baseball cards in the spokes and you could create the sound of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Were you more of a thrill seeker or daredevil? Got you covered. Take your bike down Suicide Hill near the old JFK Stadium or give a passenger a side-saddle ride on the frame, on the handlebars, or standing on the pegs on the back wheel. Nothing unsafe about any of that! I could feel the wind whipping through my hair as I rode with no hands and steered the bike with my knees. Well, that’s at least how I remember it. At around age 13, life changed with a Christ-

mas present. This time, a flashy new, bright red 10-speed bicycle with turned down handlebars in the shape of ram horns. Now I could go further at an even faster speed. But who was I kidding? I was never going to be in the Tour de France. I found the one speed I could pedal without breaking a sweat and probably never changed it. My old Stingray got passed down to my younger brother and all was good for the next three years. At age 16, some of my fortunate friends got cars or access to their parents’ cars and riding a bike was no longer cool. It probably stayed that way for the next 45 years with just occasional bike riding on the Wildwood Boardwalk during summer vacations. I enjoyed those early morning excursions on the Boardwalk with the salty air flowing through my hair so much that when I retired, I knew it would be a great idea to get my own bicycle, again. Only this time, it would be a cruiser bicycle just like the ones I rented on the Boardwalk. But who was I kidding? Was I really going to go out and buy a bike at my age? Probably not, so I did the next best thing. I used my winning coupons from the Gateway 26 Arcade on the Boardwalk in Wildwood, New Jersey, and

picked out a bicycle as a prize! I transported it home in the trunk of my car and was a happy dude until something unexpected happened. I forgot to lock up that bicycle one night and someone stole it right out of my driveway. Who gets a bike stolen from them at age 60? I was not going to let the outside world get me down. I promised myself I would get another bicycle. A better one! This time, a cruiser bike just like the ones I rented on the Boardwalk only with the wider seat that older people prefer. But who was I kidding? Was I really going to go into a store and buy a bike at my age? No. So, I did the next best thing. I ordered one online and had it delivered to my house. I also paid extra for the at-home service to put the bicycle together.

Now I cruise the streets of South Philly, again, occasionally thinking I could let go of the handlebars and steer with my knees. I can feel the wind blowing through whatever hair remains since I’m not wearing a helmet.

Still the rebel.

What childhood memories do you have about riding a bicycle?

For me, the one where I sped up to over 25 MPH, the bike broke mid ride, my entire body crashed onto the concrete road causing many scrapes, and my wrist slammed into the pavement resulting in a fracture, with the only medical supplies being duct tape, paper towels, and hydrogen peroxide, The later treatment required surgery and three months of cast time.

PHILADELPHIA STORIES

a History of the Families from Our City of Neighborhoods

GEORGE RETALLICK & FLORENCE ELIZABETH REED RETALLICK

As told by William Retallick

Florence Elizabeth Reed Retallick

Born on July 30, 1898, she had two brothers and at least 12 sisters. She married George Retallick on February 28, 1920, in Kulpont, Pennsylvania, before eventually moving her family to the Olney section of Philadelphia. She was a third generation of Irish descent, a devout Catholic and the personification of the word mother. She lived 77 plus years, gave birth to 8 boys and 5 girls, and survived hardships that most of this generation will never confront. Rich in common sense, she could cure just about any ailment with an Ivory Soap enema, St. Joseph aspirin, mercurochrome, and a tender loving hug. She loved music and chocolate candy. She was blessed for her faithful devotion to God with 53 grandchildren and more than 300 great-grandchildren. She died one morning from a heart attack at the altar rail at morning Mass at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Church.

George Retallick

Born on December 27, 1893, this second-generation Welshman went to work in the coal mines of Pennsylvania as a breaker boy at age 12. He enlisted in the Army at age 26 and survived the trenches of WWI, suffering through mustard gas and a bullet wound to the back of his head. He married Florence Elizabeth Reed on February 28, 1920, a beautiful Irish woman, and fathered 13 children. In 1933, he was promoted to Assistant Mine Foreman. One day, his wife Florence, said to him, ‘There has to be something better in this world than a hole in the ground.’ So, she packed up six kids and headed to Philadelphia until George gave up the mines and joined her. In 1953, he retired from the Philadelphia Navy Yard as a foreman in the welding shop. He packed up his troubles in his old kit bag on April 8, 1959. He and his beautiful wife left a legacy of 13 children, 53 grandchildren, and more than 300 great-grandchildren behind – most of whom still call Philadelphia home

The Retallick siblings with their mother Florence: Kenneth, George, Richard, Donald, Paul, John, Lorraine, Marie, Florence, William, Thomas & Eileen

David Feldman

“The New King of Philly Combat Sports”

“I am so excited to be putting on the biggest fight event in Philly history”

— David Feldman

On January 25, 2025, David Feldman will achieve something unprecedented during the Wells Fargo event—he will produce the largest fight event in Philadelphia’s history, known as Knucklemania Five! After a decade of being turned down by his home state’s athletic commission, Feldman persevered in his dream to make Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship the premier combat sport in the world. Through relentless determination and pursuit, he finally secured the necessary approval and sanction to bring this thrilling sport to his hometown of Philadelphia.

Feldman has crafted a fight card that promises nonstop action and excitement. The main event features Philadelphia’s own Eddie Alvarez, the “King of the Underground,” as he seeks to cement his legacy as one of the best combat sport fighters in the city’s history. Alvarez will face off against Jeremy Stevens, a fighter well-known as one of Philadelphia’s most disliked competitors. This matchup is set to become a fierce battle not only

between the two fighters but also with the support of the entire city of Philadelphia behind Alvarez. This monumental event will solidify David Feldman’s position in history as the foremost promoter of combat sports in the Philadelphia tri-state area. By making his mark in a city renowned for its rich fighting history, he is executing part of his larger vision for global dominance in the world of combat sports.

Headliner Philly’s Own Eddie Alverez Vs Jeremy Stevens

David Feldman’s Roster of Philly Fighters is Robust! But South Philly’s very own John Garbarino is looking to dominate!

David Feldman has set the Philly fight scene on fire with Bare Knuckle Boxing announcing that the promotion “Is Coming Home” on January 25th at the Wells Fargo Center.

BKFC held fighter tryouts and the turnout of tough and talented fighters was nearly 200 beasts competing to be part of this epic promotion!

BKFC has a robust pipeline of local young fighters trying to make the promotions roster!

Two of South Philly’s own have secured their spot on this insane fight card! Pat “The Irishman”

Sullivan is living his dream and will be fighting and looking to make a statement in front of his family and hometown fans along with thousands of Philly fight fans!

Also, South Philly’s John Garbarino, a local MMA and Boxing sensation, will be in the major spotlight and looking to continue his winning streak with a fight of the night performance. This is an opportunity for these 2 fighters to catapult to national and BKFC super stardom! This event is on pace to sellout with the largest gate in Philly fight history! Along with a full house at every sports bar in the Tri-State area! PRH

Original paperwork that was on file at the Naturalization Office for 66 years

Honoring the Ties that Bind

by Maria Merlino photos courtesy of Criniti Jefferson Family Archives

Rosa Criniti Jefferson exudes warmth, resilience, and a bit rebellion. Her story is rooted in a profound sense of family, love, and heritage. At 70 years old, Rosa recently became a United States citizen, an achievement marked not only by legal formality but by deep emotional significance.

“I never considered becoming a citizen because of my father,” she begins. “He immigrated here in 1955, but he always dreamed of returning to Italy. To honor him, I didn’t want to give up my Italian citizenship, which used to be required to become an American citizen.”

When dual citizenship became possible in 1996, Rosa still hesitated. It wasn’t until her plans to visit Italy next year that she decided to make the leap. “I hadn’t been back since I was 12. I needed a passport to travel, so I started the process of renewing my Italian passport and applying for American citizenship.”

The journey was long and, at times, overwhelming. “I filed the paperwork in March, took the test, and finally completed everything by September.

It was a lot, forms, fees, and waiting, but it was worth it. And when I cast my first vote as a citizen, it felt incredible.”

The experience has been unexpectedly moving. Rosa recalls standing in line to vote when a man approached her, saying, “Thank you for becoming a citizen. We’re all Americans, from everywhere, but we come together here.” His words brought her to tears. “I didn’t expect this to feel so special, but it really does,” she reflects.

Rosa’s life has been defined by resilience and love. In 1976, she married Joseph B. Jefferson, a celebrated black musician, songwriter, and her greatest inspiration. She was his muse. “Every lyric he wrote came from his heart, and I was lucky enough to be at the center of it.” They were married for more than 40 years until his death in 2020.

Joseph B. Jefferson’s impact on

music history is undeniable. He was a driving force behind iconic hits such as One of a Kind (Love Affair), Mighty Love, and Sadie by The Spinners, as well as You Make Me Feel Brand New by The Stylistics. Rosa remembers those years as a whirlwind of creativity and love.

Their interracial marriage was groundbreaking for its time, and while it initially caused family strife, it became a testament to enduring love and strength. “My husband was my rock,” she says. “He passed away four years ago, but I’ll always be grateful for the life we built together.”

Today, Rosa embraces her dual heritage with pride. “Becoming a citizen doesn’t mean I’m giving anything up, it’s about adding to who I am. I’m Italian. I’m American. And I’m grateful for it all.”

Rosa’s story is one of family, perseverance, love, and honoring the ties that bind us to our roots while embracing the possibilities of new beginnings. PRH

An exuberant Rosa Criniti Jefferson on her first day as a United States citizen

TRADITIONS

Philly Philly

Christening Gown Worn by 24 Babies in this Family Tree

When Grandmom Mary Testa made a Christen ing Gown for her first grandson – Joseph Testa – back in 1952, she never imagined this beautifully handstitched heirloom would welcome 24 Testa children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren into the Catholic Church at Baptism.

“My grandmother Mary Testa made the gown when my brother Joe was born,” says Joanne Testa Zepp (Baby #5). “Every baby in my family has worn it since.”

On September 22, 2025, Thomas Lucian Jackson became Baby #24 when parents Brett and Alexa (Zepp) Jackson (Baby #13) celebrated his Christening Day with family and friends.

Brett & Alexa Jackson with Thomas Lucian

Thomas rests on the same crocheted blanket as his mom Alexa when she was baptized in 1998

RECIPE FOR LIFELONG FRIENDSHIP

INGREDIENTS

 12+ lifelong friends

 A shared love for good food and great company

 A variety of BYOB restaurants

 A dash of humor

 A sprinkle of nostalgia

 A generous helping of mutual respect and support

DIRECTIONS

Mix in regular gatherings on Wednesday night. Choose BYOB restaurants so that a variety of wine and spirits are shared. Tell jokes, even if heard 100s of times. They’re still funny. Toward the end of the evening, tell stories, any stories of the past, even if heard 100s of times. Call people not there to say hello. Celebrate birthdays and holidays. Garnish with an a cappella song and say good night.

COURTESY OF MARIA MERLINO

Recipe for Friendship: Ken Adams, Joe Moderski, Carmen Nasuti Esq., Joe Canuso Esq., Joseph Canuso, Joe Sweeny, Tommy O’Leary, Frank Daniel, Justin Capek Esq., Francesca Martorano, John Capek Esq., Georgie Martorano & Fiona the Christmas Elf.

by Jim Moylan

“Oh Dem Golden Slippers,” composed by James Bland in 1879, is inherently associated with all things Mummer. It is a ubiquitous song played countless times at many events throughout the year, but especially around New Year’s Day.

The heart and soul of Philadelphia Mummery is 2St or Mummers Row, as it’s known locally. The gateway to Mummers Row is the beautiful Mummers Museum (1100 S Second St), which opened in 1976 as part of our city’s bicentennial celebration.

The museum is dedicated to memorializing and protecting the tradition of Mummery in Philadelphia. You are up close to the elaborate costumes, learn to “strut,” enjoy oral histories, video archives and dive into the captivating history behind the Mummers Parade, the oldest continuous folk parade in the U.S.

The museum hosts many public and private events throughout the year. Schools, senior groups, summer camps and vacationing visitors to our city are regularly able to experience the excitement and history of the Mummers, helping to keep the traditions alive. The

museum schedule will be chock full of historic events and activities as we approach their 50th year and the 250th celebration of our nation in 2026. Weddings, birthdays, graduations, and fundraisers are some of the private celebrations occurring here. Multiple public events showcase the active role the museum plays in today’s Mummery. Learn to make costumes and Mummers umbrellas. Experience the parade’s history through multimedia presentations.

Dedicated staff and volunteers make sure the history is alive and well.

Mummers continue to evolve. Today’s Mummers are people from all walks of life, bringing their dancing, designing, building and musical talents for all to enjoy. Just for the pure love of Mummery and fellowship. The 10,000 annual parade participants work year-round to provide the best part of their individual groups. Pride in their efforts. Many can trace family members that have marched for generations. To set a tour, become a member, purchase a memorial brick, and keep track of all the upcoming events - Mummersmuseum.org

2024 BLUE SAPPHIRE AWARD WINNERS

All Great Accomplishments Begin with a Dream

Wil Hart

The Delfonics

Lifetime Music Achievement Award

Fr. Joseph Kelley

St. Monica Parish Leaders in Education Award

Dan Vanore

The Business

Music Entertainment Award

Tom Nataloni

The Business

Music Entertainment Award

Mark Rago

Monti-Rago Funeral Home

Local Business Success Story Award

Eileen Gargano

Friends of Dickinson Square Park

Edward J. McBride

Service to Community Award

2024 WISHROCK AWARD

"Anything is Possible if You Believe in Yourself"

GABRIELLA SCRENCI Ruffride.org

“Never Give Up, Even when the Odds are Stacked Against You.”

A special Thank You to KEN ADAMS, DUGGAN’S PUB, PHL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

For his ongoing support of our WishRock Awards Program

“All Great Accomplishments Begin with a Dream.”

Venue

Vie by Cescaphe

Master of Ceremonies

Mark Casasanto

Entertainment The Business

Trophy Presenters

Jade Rota Locascio Nicolette Retallick

Photography Andrew Andreozzi

Hair

The Cutting Point

Tuxedos

Rudi’s Formal Wear

Blue Sapphire Signature Cocktail 375 Park Avenue Spirits

Departing Gift

Center City Pretzel Co.

Sound / Video

DJ Sound & Lighting

PHILADELPHIA ROWHOME

MAGAZINE PRESENTS

2024 Black Tie Business

Networking Gala sponsored by Cescaphe

January /February /

DEEP IN THE HEART OF

TEXAS TEXAS

“From

Row Home to Rancher”

by Mark Casasanto

Joan & Chris Wellborn

Nestled neatly along the Red River, just across the border from Oklahoma, there’s a small town situated along the historic Chisholm Trail. Famous for the late 1800s passage of cattle traveling north to Kansas through Indian territory, the Wellborn 2R Ranch sits just a few miles west of that original trail in Henrietta, Texas.

Joan Wellborn admits she always found the city stressful, suggesting that somehow, she may have been geographically misplaced. Formerly of Norwood Street in St. Edmund’s Parish, she was a Philadelphian up until the time she met and married her husband Chris.

After a brief stint in New Jersey, a series of occupational related moves found the couple in a virtual “Plinko” chip trajectory of travel. First, Georgia, then back to the region to reside in Yardley, Bucks County. Eventually saddling up in Southlake, a suburb just outside of Dallas.

Chris, a North Carolina native and avid outdoorsman, grew restless. He yearned for grounds to hunt and fish. One thousand acres later, they settled on a former cattle ranch, devoid of livestock and most importantly, a place to hang their cowboy hats.

But what is a home, at least

in Texas, without cattle?

Chris set out to learn the cattle business. Over the next 20 years, the couple acquired surrounding properties, while essentially, “building the herd,” and a business to boot. Quicker than you can say Roy Rogers, the ranch blossomed into 8,000 acres of Texas upland soils of shady brown and red. Along the way, they learned a lot about beef and when enlightened to just how good their beef tasted, Chris decided, “Well, if it’s that good, let’s sell it online.”

In 2019, www.wellborn2rbeef went live and started shipping from the Wellborn

2R Ranch. The output - all natural, grass-fed and grain finished beef, with no growth hormones or antibiotics. Their cattle have free range and are raised in a stress-free environment. They challenge anyone who asks, “taste the difference.”

“What a learning curve,” Joan exclaims. “Just moving out to the country, seeing what’s normal for rural Texas.” Looking back, she laughs recalling her realtor saying, “You need to get a little pistol for yourself.” That statement didn’t completely make sense until a stare-down with a feral hog posturing just outside her window.

AUTHENTIC TEXAS

Chili Recipe

Chili is a dish typically made with ground beef, tomatoes, and chili peppers. There are many different ways to make chili, but the most common way to make it in Texas is with beef, tomatoes, and chili peppers. This dish is usually served with rice or beans and can be made as mild or as spicy as you like.

TEXAS CHILI – THE RECIPE

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Servings: 14

INGREDIENTS

 2 lbs. Ground Beef (90% lean)

 2 Tbsp. olive oil

 1 yellow onion, chopped

 3 garlic cloves, minced

 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped

 ½ cup celery, chopped

 1 jalapeño pepper, ribs and seeds removed, chopped

 2 Tbsp. chili powder

 2 tbsp. tomato paste

 1 can fire tomatoes

 1 cup beer

 1 cup beef stock

 1 ½ tsp. cocoa powder, unsweetened

 1 Tsp. Paprika

 ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper powder

 1 Tbsp. cumin powder

 1 bay leaf

 1 tsp. Italian seasoning

 ½ tsp. Black pepper

 ½ tsp. salt

 ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

PREPARATION

Pour oil into a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, reduce heat to medium, add bell pepper, celery, onion and jalapeño pepper, and cook for 4 to 7 minutes until soft, stirring rarely. Then add garlic and cook for another minute. At this stage, add beef and cook for 7 to 10 minutes; use a spatula to break crumbles while stirring rarely. Once beef turns brown, add paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper powder, cumin, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, black pepper and salt, and cook for 1 more minute. Then add fire tomatoes, tomato paste, beer, cocoa powder and beef stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 25 to 30 minutes. Once ready, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, remove from heat and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello Rioja Reserva $13

Quite the adjustment for a South Philly girl who proudly embraces her past as part of the Hot Pants Patrol for the Philadelphia Phillies. Her heart says she “still belongs to the Phillies,” despite the Texas Rangers’ 2023 World Series Championship. Speaking in somewhat hushed tones, she does admit to rooting for the Dallas Cowboys. “I’ve been here almost 30 years,” she reminds me.

She enjoys coming home, visiting her sister in Newtown, and having dinner with friends on Passyunk Avenue, one of whom affectionately calls her “Miss Ellie” (from the CBS drama Dallas). She’s been impressed with the new development in South Philly through the years and reads all about it when she gets her issue of Philadelphia RowHome Magazine in the mail.

Much like her Philadelphia roots, the small town of Henrietta celebrates its heritage every September. The Pioneer Reunion – part rodeo, part festival – serves to honor its diverse history, much of it deriving from German immigrants but with all the yore of its cowboys and Indians, alike.

Somewhat surreal given that Joan sometimes looks out from her back porch and can visualize the Indians coming up through the trees.

Just over that same horizon, twice a year, all the wranglers from the various ranches in the region meet for the round-up to ease each other’s workload. Call it cowboy camaraderie.

And, while many miles apart, there is a parallel to be drawn to a tight knit South Philly neighborhood, banding together for Saturday Street cleaning or holiday decorating.

But Texas is where the Wellborns bench their boots. And this is their home.

A home on the range. PRH

(L to R) Giuseppe Galzerano, Patty Baldi Holloway, Marina Galzerano, Chuck Douglas, his wife Debra Douglas, Carmen Galzerano, Julio Galzerano & Francesco Galzerano

Family-owned photo from Chuck’s collection reproduced from the cover of a book about C.C.A. Baldi & his brothers published by History Press in 2022, Philadelphia’s King of Little Italy

BALDI FAMILIA

by Charles G. Douglas with John Nacchio

elatives and descendants of Vito Baldi and Rosa Galzerano, who were born in Campania in the 1800s, numbered more than 100 strong as they convened in June in Malvern Chester County and South Philadelphia to participate in a series of family

events. Distant cousins and family members flew in from places far and wide - Alaska, California, Mexico City, as well as Italy - to attend a reception and dinner in Malvern hosted by Patty Baldi Holloway and her husband Gary, to celebrate and share their common bond of ancestry.

About 50 family members boarded a bus for a tour of Baldi-related sites, from the Rox-

borough home at 319 Green Lane, a PA Historic Place, to various locations in South Philadelphia. The tour ended at Ristorante Aroma with a delicious four-course meal and remarks by the President of Sons of Italy, Chapter 2787, Victor Baldi III, of South Philadelphia. Victor Baldi is the fourth generation to operate the Baldi Funeral Home on South Broad Street. C.C.A. Baldi’s grandson, Judge Robert Baldi of the Bucks Coun-

ty Court of Common Pleas, narrated the bus tour. His sonin-law, actor David Costabile of Brooklyn, NY, graciously posed for photos. Among his many roles, Costabile was cast in several TV series including Breaking Bad and played Daniel Hardman in Suits and Wags on Billions

A cake decorated with the photo of family descendant Charles Carmine Antonio Baldi, known as C.C.A. Baldi, was reproduced from the cover of a book about him and his brothers entitled, Philadelphia’s King of Little Italy, published by History Press in 2022. His story, and that of his brothers, is the classic urban experience for immigrants

Food. Family. Traditions.

from Italy in the 1800s and early 1900s. It was written by his greatgrandson, Charles G. Douglas, a native of Philadelphia with a career as a politician, jurist, and trial lawyer, as well as former U.S. Representative from New Hampshire.

In 1876, a 14-year-old boy from the Southern Italian town of Castelnuovo Cilento arrived in Philadelphia with 40 cents to his name. Young Charles Carmine Antonio Baldi made a living selling lemons off a pushcart in downtown Philadelphia. One day, he bought every lemon in the city at a rate of $1.26 a box. Two or three days later, the fruit jumped in value by leaps and bounds and the youthful lemon merchant sold the lemons at a rate of $7 and $8 a box. He then became committed to growing a business empire.

By the time of his passing, C.C.A. Baldi had become one of the most well-known and successful Italian Americans in Philadelphia history. Along with his brothers, Joseph, Alfonso and Virgilio, they established a bank, funeral home, and the largest Italian-language newspaper in America, L’Opinione

Both C.C.A. and Joseph Baldi were knighted by King Victor Emmanuel III of Italy in 1907 and 1911, respectively.

Making the reunion a true family affair, four Galzeranos descended from Rosa, the Baldi brothers’ mother, flew in from Italy. Marina Galzerano traveled from Mexico City and served as the translator for Giuseppe Galzerano, who still lives in Castelnuovo Cilento, Italy. Giuseppe announced proudly that a street in the town is being dedicated to C.C.A. Baldi by a vote of the town government there on May 30. The Baldi family home at 31 Via Roma in Castelnuovo is still standing. The naming of Baldi Middle School at 8801 Verree Road by the Philadelphia School District also was noted.

Plans are underway for a future reunion because everyone had such an exciting time exploring common history and getting to know each other. The slogan for the Baldi Familia reunion resonated with the well-coined phrase by Patty Baldi Holloway: “We are who we are because they were who they were.” PRH

Various Baldi extended family members on the porch of 319 Green Lane in Roxborough, home of C.C.A. Baldi

(L to R) Victor Baldi, David Costabile & Chuck Douglas

LIFE

WISHES & DREAMS

Finding a Cure for Cystic Fibrosis

courtesy of wishes & dreams for cystic fibrosis

www . wishesanddreamscf . org

THE 29TH ANNUAL WISHES & DREAMS

event was held at the beautiful Switch House by Cescaphe. Over the past two decades, Cescaphe has been the stunning venue of choice for the annual Wishes & Dreams gala, which continues its mission to raise money and awareness for cystic fibrosis (CF). In addition to raising funds, the gala honored heroes from CF Centers around the region including The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Nemours Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Caity and Gracie Martinez, who have faced the challenges of life with CF with grace, were honored as Shining Stars, as they inspire the community to continue its mission. Wishes & Dreams acknowledges the generosity of its sponsors including major contributions from Heartwood Building Group, Inc., and The Kimani Family Wishes & Dreams for Cystic Fibrosis is dedicated to finding the cure for Cystic Fibrosis. The CF Community is made up of patients with different needs. Present therapies address many, but not all, of those living with CF. Funds raised by Wishes & Dreams go directly to the research that will find the cure for all people fighting CF. Visit www.wishesanddreamscf.org for more information. The 30th annual spring gala takes place on May 9th, 2025, at The Grand Belle at The Bellevue Hotel.

Fifty years ago, Dr. Jack Carr* decided there were enough students interested in becoming music majors in our community that he set out to coordinate an educational program with a focus on academics and music. Under Carr’s leadership, what began in an auditorium at Stephen Girard School with 55 students and a handful of teachers has grown to become one of the most successful educational programs in the School District of Philadelphia with a staff of 35 and more than 600 students – ALL music majors – in grades 5-12. This year, Girard Academic Music Program, celebrated its remarkable achievement with a 50th Anniversary GAMP Golden Gala on October 27, 2024, at Vie by Cescaphe. Hundreds of students, faculty, family, friends, and celebrants – past, present, and future –gathered to celebrate the ties that bind. * Dr. Jack Carr / Founder, Teacher, Administrator (1974-2013) / Girard Academic Music Program

3

Local resident Frank G. Criniti has bestowed upon his community an extraordinary gift: a visual, open-air military history museum. Nestled at the triangle on 18th and Bigler Streets in South Philadelphia, this unique museum welcomes new artifacts each year. Many good people have volunteered, Criniti says, including Raymond Maloney, who did the welding, and Lenny Gallagher, who is landscaping the area. This year, 10 iron pillars stand tall, each adorned with engraved stones detailing every war in which the United States has been involved. These engravings include the number of casualties, with the Civil War (1861-1865), bearing the highest toll with more than a half-million lives lost, “largely due to rampant disease and lack of medical cures at the time,” Criniti says. In stark contrast, the Gulf War (1990-1991) saw the fewest casualties, with 147 lives lost. This poignant display serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict.

1. Raymond Maloney, who did the iron work. Frank Criniti & Lenny Gallagher are landscaping the walkway. 2. Proud dad, Joseph Connell, BU3, with his two sons, Joseph, not only a great singer, but also beat cancer, and Jameson, who has a karate white belt with one stripe. 3. Frank G. Criniti stands by the Civil War Monument 4. Natalie, Vienna, Valentina, Vincenzo Criniti, Linda & Frank Criniti, Rosa Criniti Jefferson & Phillip Criniti.

South Philly Votes

Annual Awards Gala Honors Members

South Philly Votes held its First Annual Awards Gala at The Mummers Museum to honor hardworking Committee members who assist constituents in their divisions year-round with local issues including voting, street repairs, and navigating city services. Awards were presented to: Palma Digerolamo, Joelle Siligrini, Colleen Vlassopoulos, Salvatore “Sonny” Mazzone, Jaden Gdowik, Michael J. Burke,

Michelle Ghisu-Leone, Yvonne Giorgio, and Robert Asher.

“Without them, we at South Philly Votes would not be able to accomplish our goal to make South Philly a more competitive battleground for both parties, to keep them as honest as possible and working hard to earn the votes of our neighbors,” said Billy Lanzilotti, Chairman of South Philly Votes.

Sponsors

Bob Asher (PA Future Fund)

Jay Agnes Multi-Housing Depot

South Philly Votes is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH)

Raffle Donors

1731 Restaurant / Barrell’s (18th St) / Celebre’s Pizza / City Pizza / CKO / Cosmi’s / Duo Shoes / Giorgio on Pine / Goldstein’s / Holy Tomato / Illuminate Smile / Kite & Key / Main Squeeze / Nita’s News / Olivieri’s Jewelers / On a Roll Deli / Painting with a Twist (South Street) / Pastificio / Philly Soft Pretzels (23rd & Passyunk) / Ping Pod / Pizzeria Pesto / Pop’s Water Ice / Punk Burger / Saved by the Wreath / Scannichio’s

photos by Andrew Andreozzi

Thanksgiving Day Breakfast Honors

FALLEN POLICE & FIREFIGHTING HEROES

by Randy Giancaterino

By Lauren Schiavo

Jimmy Binns, President & CEO of Holiday Meals for Heroes, along with the families of fallen police and firefighters, senior Police officials – led by Philadelphia Police Department Commissioner Kevin Bethel – as well as law enforcement authorities from Delaware, Montgomery and Chester counties and surrounding states, took part in the 18th annual Thanksgiving Holiday Meals

for Heroes Breakfast on November 27. The annual event is designed to honor the memory of first responders killed on-duty in the tri-state region, and to support their families, who took home holiday dinners as part of the Holiday Meals for Heroes program.

More than 400 people attended the event, which took place at the Sunnybrook Golf Club in Plymouth Meeting, PA. Families of the fallen heroes mixed and mingled over coffee and conversation with police and fire authorities from the Philadelphia area and

neighboring counties and states. The Holiday Meals for Heroes program furnishes breakfast meals and food deliveries to area families of fallen police officers at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, annually. The holiday food program benefits law enforcement families that lost loved ones on duty. Following the Thanksgiving breakfast, holiday takeaway dinners were distributed to the families.

Representatives from the Philadelphia Police Department, the Temple University Police Department, Regional County and State Police, the Delaware River Port Authority, Port Authority of New Jersey, U.S. Department of

Justice, FBI, and Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey State Troopers attended the event.

Organizer Jimmy Binns is a certified motorcycle drill instructor and Deputy Chief of the Darby Township Police Department in Delaware County. Binns also is a highly respected Philadelphia attorney and tireless champion for the police and fire communities. Binns has led the annual Hero Thrill Show for 18 years. The mission of his programs and annual activities is to serve and support families of the region’s deceased police and fire personnel while recognizing the heroism of those who sacrificed their lives for their communities.

Binns, of South Philadelphia, also is the founder of the Hero Cop Plaque Program in the Delaware Valley, a memorial initiative honoring deceased police officers at the site of their on-duty deaths. PRH

photos

Give it Away

by Dorthi DiGilio

The recent interview with Matthew Perry’s family on the year anniversary of his death resonated deeply with me.

“There’s nothing special about us, there’s millions of people out there going through this and need help.”

I began thinking about everyday people who lost a child to

addiction or mental issues whom I have had the honor to meet on my journey of helping and healing. I choose not to let the loss define me. My definition centers around unconditional love. My hope today is to shine a light and balance the heaviness of these necessary conversations which I am grateful to have the opportunity to initiate here. I have learned that these tragedies can and do happen in any family. There is no better way to show that, than through the words of those left behind. Below is just a small sampling of the beautiful souls that I have come to know. “Don’t let the pall of grief block the beauty of your loved one.”

My Dean was fearless with a sparkle in his eye. He was strong outside, sensitive inside. He was the one swinging on the kiddie swings with his toddler nephew. He was loyal and protected his family. He was innovative, looking forward to being a motorcycle and diesel mechanic. He excelled at MMA, training in the

• matthewperryfoundation.org

• deansmom.org

• steps4hope.org

teachers’ class. He loved fiercelyhis family, his dog, his motorcycle, and music. Dean DiGilio 1991-2013.

“Max’s life was guided by his motto, “It’s all about the LOVE.” Max passionately loved his family, many friends, all humans, all sentient beings, and Mother Earth. Max’s hugs could change your day and alter your life. He would hug you with his whole heart and soul. Max’s love lives on in those he shared it with, forever.” Max Riley Beaudreau 1989-2018.

“Zach was a love bug when he came into our lives, forever bringing us joy beyond words. He was the welcome guest at his friend’s house and always looked out for others. Zach was thoughtful, funny, sensitive, and kind. He loved music, building Legos, the Eagles, and playing tennis and basketball.” Zach Pettit 1994-2018.

“Nicholas was a kindhearted soul. He invited a classmate with Down syndrome to our home for pre-prom festivities. He bought flowers for a mom who had just lost her daughter to cancer on that first Mother’s Day. These are just a

few of his many acts of kindness.”

Nicholas Schivito 1995-2018. “Claire was my sweet, glamorous girl. How I miss that face!”

Claire Gregory 1991-2020.

“Nicholas was an All-American swimmer who loved catching butterflies. He deftly played ‘Fur Elise’ on the piano and rocked the drums at school concerts. Nick lovingly embraced “his” dog Barley and vigorously assembled the Lego architectural series. He read Harry Potter novels and tutored (Algebra) to a co-worker to earn her GED.”

Nicholas Hojnacki 1992-2018.

“Jonathan’s spirit was pure gold, illuminating lives through his love, friendship, and athletic passion. His legacy shines through in cherished memories of Christmas mornings, pillow forts, Coke Slurpees, exciting basketball and lacrosse, warm hugs, beautiful smiles, humor, and his daily, ‘I love you, mom and dad. Thanks for everything’.” Jonathan Moules 1991-2014.

“Sonny was the heart and soul of our family. He was our rock and had a smile that lit up this world!” Sonny DiStefano 1991-2021.

“Eric was a handsome young man, tall and lanky, with big blue eyes, a mop of sandy-colored hair, a forever smile, a happy-go-lucky attitude, and a heart of gold. He was funny, bright,

• angelsagainstaddiction.org

loyal, creative, and always positive. His love of family and friends was unconditional.” Eric Poore 1991-2014.

“Frankie was full of love and kindness! He loved his family and friends fiercely! He was smart and had only three semesters left to complete at PSU in Communications. He also earned an Electrical Certificate of Competency from DCCC. His greatest joy was making others laugh, and his laugh was contagious!” Frankie Felicioni 1991-2018.

“Teddy was a loving son, brother, and friend, connecting with others through vulnerability. He graduated from Temple University. He was an accomplished writer, lyricist, singer, and guitarist for Apple Juice Jones. He was a passionate yoga teacher, and active in the recovery community. In 2017, he traveled cross-country, exploring national parks, and sharing his music and insights.” Teddy 1992-2021.

They are good. They lived. They mattered. They always will.

“When all that is left of me is love, give it away.” Hold your loved ones close today. Life is short, and life is long. Keep the conversations going. The bravest thing you can do if you or a loved one is struggling is to reach out! addictionrecoveryandthegrief@gmail.com. PRH

• charitysmith.org/memorial-funds/the-phightin-frankie-foundation

• teawithted.org

SPBA

photos by ANDREW ANDREOZZI

phlathletics . com 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!

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

will turn your vision into reality. We offer one-on-one care to ensure not only the best quality, but the best service from start to finish. We keep our customers happy and coming back! @Phl.builders.llc

www . phlbuilders . com

William Guyon Jr

Ron Malandro Jr

Dominic Novelli owners

The South Philadelphia Business Association held its 4th annual Golf Outing at the Bala Golf Club this past October. Proceeds benefit the SPBA Scholarship Fund & the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund. Taking care of business since 1897, the SPBA is open to new members. Join today: Southphiladelphiabusinessassociation.com

Mario Tropea Jr. & the Dream Team

’S SPOTLIGHT St. Anthony of Padua Regional Catholic School Administered by St. Nicholas of Tolentine and Annunciation BVM Parishes

Faith-Based Institution of 21st Century Learners

Pre-K3 thru 8th Grade

Qualified and Dedicated Lay Teachers and Staff

Located in the Heart of South Philly 913 Pierce Street Philadelphia, PA 19148

Currently taking registrations for the 2025-2026 School Year

Call for a School Tour with Principal Mrs. Dana R Smith-Papp 215-468-0353 www . stanthonyofpaduarcs . org

photos by ANDREW ANDREOZZI

things to consider when shopping for Top 5HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

When you are buying a new home or just shopping around for new insurance coverage, it is important to understand that not all homeowners coverage is created equal. For many of us, our homes are our most valuable asset and we want to treat it that way when we are discussing coverage options with our insurance agent. The list below highlights five important things to consider when shopping for a homeowners policy.

1. A LOCAL & KNOWLEDGEABLE AGENT. Working with a local agency that understands the models of homes in your area, local neighborhoods, and gives you a friendly face to call with questions, is crucial for insurance. At the Troast-Singley & Miller Agency, we pride ourselves on being a local agency you can trust that understands city homes and neighborhoods so we can advise you on the best possible coverage.

2. A DEDUCTIBLE YOU CAN AFFORD. When you’re in a position to process a claim, you do not want to be stuck with a deductible you actually cannot afford. Be honest with your agent and choose a deductible that makes sense for you.

3. COVERAGE YOU CAN AFFORD. No two policies are created equal, and no two properties are created equal. Every person has different risk factors they need to consider when shopping for a policy. At the Troast-Singley & Miller Agency, we can advise you on the add-on endorsements you may need to ensure you have the coverage you need to match the level of risk your property presents.

4. READY TO REBUILD. When you buy a homeowners policy with guaranteed replacement cost, you need to be sure you have enough coverage to cover a full rebuild. The replacement cost for your home is often more than what you paid for it. If this is something you need to better understand, talk to one of our agents, today.

5. LIABILITY COVERAGE. Lawsuits are not all that uncommon these days and we want you to be protected. When shopping for a policy, you want to discuss with your agent the level of liability coverage you have - $300,000 is the minimum we suggest in our office, but some people require something called an Umbrella Policy which can extend liability coverage up to $5 million coverage where the level of risk indicates appropriate.

courtesy of John Miller Troast-Singley & Miller Insurance Agency troast - singleyagency com

Do you need….

A Bigger Home, More Parking, In-Home Elevator, Full 10 Year Tax Abatement, Large Roof Deck, Sub Zero / Wolf Appliances & Much More...

What are you waiting for?

Experience 3,200 Sq Ft. of Luxury Living Today

Come join our clean, safe and convenient community located just steps from the gorgeous & green FDR Park!

Contact Barbara Capozzi for more details: (267) 973 - 0848

BCPackerPark@gmail.com PackerParkNewHomes.com

LAWORDER &

Pardon Me What’s all this talk about Pardons?

by FRANK C. DEPASQUALE JR , ESQUIRE

Q: My friend and I are having a debate about the Presidential Pardon. Can you shed some light on this topic?

A: The United States Constitution grants the President the sole authority to grant executive clemency, including pardons and commutations. Pardons allow the President to forgive a person convicted of any federal crime except impeachment and can be granted at any time after the crime has been committed. A commutation is a mitigation or reduction in the sentence for a crime without canceling the conviction itself. Pardons do not apply to state or local offenses or civil lawsuits. Presidential grants of clemency can be very controversial, as we have seen President Biden granting his son Hunter a broad sweeping pardon and commuting the death sentences of 37 individuals to life without the possibility of parole. President Clinton granted a pardon to his half-brother Roger, and President Trump issued a pardon to Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law, and has stated he is considering granting clemency to all the individuals convicted in the January 6th U.S. Capitol attack when he returns to office. The President’s Pardon power is absolute, unlimited, and not appealable. Presidential clemency was designed to be a tool for justice and mercy and to further public welfare. Unfortunately, it is often used politically and self-serving.

Once again, Frank DePasquale has been recognized by his peers as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer for 2025. 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

COLD Stay Safe in Extreme

When extreme cold arrives, there are many challenges to staying safe. It is important to take extreme cold seriously and minimize your risk of exposure.

PREVENTIVE ACTION IS YOUR BEST DEFINSE

Prepare your home and car in advance for coldweather emergencies.

Winterize your home by insulating, using weather stripping and caulking, and installing storm windows.

Create a home emergency kit that has enough supplies for three to seven days.

Keep antifreeze and windshield washer fluids at proper levels in your car and have a full tank of gas.

Carry a vehicle emergency kit that includes warm clothing, a blanket, a scraper, a shovel, a flashlight with extra batteries and jumper cables.

If you must go outside, make it brief and avoid physical exertion, as cold weather puts extra strain on the heart.

WEAR SEVERAL LAYERS OF LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING

Outer layer. Wear a coat made from a tightly

woven fabric that is windand water-resistant.

Inner layer. Fabrics like wool, silk, or polypropylene hold more body heat than cotton.

Wear a hat, a scarf to cover your face and mouth, mittens, and water-resistant boots.

Remove extra layers of clothing if you feel too warm. Excess perspiration can increase heat loss.

Avoid wet clothing, which loses 90 percent of its insulating value.

Shivering should not be ignored; it means your body is losing heat.

Do not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, which cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.

Don’t forget to bring your pets indoors!

FROSTBITE

Frostbite is the most common injury resulting from exposure to severe cold. It is an injury to the body that causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas, usually the fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks, or chin. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

White or grayishyellow skin area

Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy

Numbness

At the first sign of redness or pain on your skin, return indoors, as frostbite may be beginning.

HYPOTHERMIA

When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced and the result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. It may make you unable to think clearly or move well, so it is particularly dangerous because you may not even know you have it. Hypothermia can also occur at cool temperatures if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat or submersion in cold water. Any of the following signs may indicate hypothermia:

Shivering

Exhaustion

Confusion

Fumbling hands

Memory loss

Slurred speech

Drowsiness

You should seek emergency medical treatment immediately if you think you may have hypothermia or frostbite.

courtesy of RON RABENA Chief Client Officer, Allied Universal

Welcome to Chef MJ’s Corner, where we feature stories about food, nutrition, health, the latest trends, and hotspots, and, last but not least, stories that inspire each reader. You know my motto...Food is a segue into intimate conversation. So, take a load off and let’s get intimate.

Philly Love meets Southern Chef / Gal

As a Southern girl cooking in Philadelphia, I often like to incorporate southern staples into my menus. To me, the notion of love is often closely tied to traditional southern collard greens. As they are currently in peak season, spanning from January to April, this presents a prime opportunity to prepare and enjoy them.

Collard greens are distinguished by their exceptional flavor and nutritional density, warranting their classification as a “superfood.’’ Boasting an array of essential vitamins, including C, A, and B, in addition to fiber

and vitamin K, they are a culinary delight with numerous health benefits. In this issue, I’ll be providing a healthier way you can prepare them. One of the other southern staples I appreciate preparing in diverse ways is the sweet potato. Sweet potatoes are deemed a super food due to their provision of various vitamins. Beyond their health benefits, sweet potatoes are an excellent addition to any weight loss diet. Firstly, they possess high fiber content, particularly soluble fiber. Soluble fiber is exceptional because it slows digestion and makes you feel full, potentially curbing the urge to snack between meals. Take a look at my recipe, also in this issue, for my favorite way to prepare sweet potatoes. These two foods are a pleasure to eat and, when prepared properly, can also offer health benefits. Honestly, serving these two foods together is a meaningful way to show love and appreciation. The savory and sweet flavors complement each other beautifully.

Photo by Andrew Andreozzi

Pie Shepherd’s

If you’re looking for some good oldfashioned comfort food to get you through the winter season, here’s an easy recipe and the perfect way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes you have in the fridge.

INGREDIENTS

 1 lb of ground beef, cooked

 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

 Salt & Pepper to taste

 3 cups cooked and mashed potatoes

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, combine beef, onions, vegetables, mushroom soup, salt, and pepper. Pour into a 9x9-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes. Bake for 1 hour, or until top is golden brown. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serves 4-5.

Healthy COLLARD GREENS

Philly Philly

INGREDIENTS

 Bagged or fresh cut collard greens. *If you use fresh cut collard greens, make sure to clean them thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any grit

 Fresh garlic

 Apple Cider Vinegar

 Chicken or vegetable broth

 My Veggielicious seasoning (available at www. chefmitzijackson.me)

 Coco aminos

 Red pepper flakes. *If you want to include meat, I recommend smoked turkey

DIRECTIONS

In a large pot, combine all the ingredients listed above and initiate simmering. Once simmering, incorporate your cleaned collard greens. Allow them to cook until they attain the desired tenderness. Season to taste with Veggielicious seasoning and red pepper flakes. If a touch of sweetness is desired, add a hint of agave. Serve Warm.

COURTESY OF CHEF MITZI JACKSON

COURTESY OF JADE LOCASCIO

COURTESY OF JOHN NACCHIO SR. & JOSEPH NACCHIO

Grandmom’s Italian PIGNOLI COOKIES

Growing up, the custom of baking batches of cookies for every holiday or special occasion occurred with a feverish passion for both volume and variety. My Mom said she really liked the challenge to prepare so many recipes, bringing alive traditional flavors, shapes, and textures. Among them, the Italian Pignoli Cookies hold a special place in my heart, taking me back to childhood, reliving times with my Mom, Grandmom, aunts and uncles gathered around the dining room table. Their chewy almond center and crispy pine nut coating make them a holiday favorite and a nostalgic treat I can’t resist!

This year, my son Joseph suddenly caught my Mom’s daring whirlwind challenges to

 (8 oz) package of almond paste

 1/2 cup granulated sugar

 1/4 tsp almond extract

bake cookies starting from perfectly-shaped pizzelles to these toasty pine nut delights.

The use of pine nuts has a history in various cuisines and cultures that can be traced back thousands of years to ancient times. During these recent economic times, I have lamented about the rising costs of bakery cookies – sometimes as much as $20 for four small cookies. For about $20, we can bake 15-30 cookies in just over 30 minutes. That’s a challenge that resonated with my son, reminding me of his grandmother’s spirit. “Oh yeah, Dad, bring it on!”

Equipment: Food processor (alternative use electric mixer or firm hands to knead); large mixing bowl; flat bowl; baking sheets; parchment paper; wire rack

INGREDIENTS

 1 large egg (whites only)

 1/3-1/2 cup all-purpose flour

 appx 1 1/2 cups pine nuts

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 325 F/160 C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients: Slice the almond paste into chunks (it’s easier to blend this way). In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg white until very frothy. Add the sugar and almond extract to the almond paste in the processor and pulse until well blended. Slowly pour in the egg whites while pulsing until a thick, sticky dough forms. (Alternative: firm hands knead dough). Blend until combined. The texture should look like wet sand. The dough should feel soft, slightly sticky, but mostly tacky. If it’s very sticky, almost wet, or loose, add a sprinkle of flour and briefly pulse again. Let the dough rest for 1-2 minutes for the flour to absorb the liquid.

Prepare Cookies: Add the pine nuts to a wide, shallow bowl. Portion the dough, in tablespoonsized scoops, into the pine nuts. Best use a cookie scoop to portion the sticky dough. Roll the dough to fully coat the top, bottom, and

 Powdered sugar, optional

sides. Place onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat to roll and coat the remaining cookie dough. (Note: the dough balls can be chilled overnight at this point. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake).

Baking Cookie: Place the baking sheet on the center rack. Bake for 20 minutes for soft and chewy cookies (check at the 18-minute mark. They will be light golden around the edges, and pale and soft in the center. They might look slightly underdone, but this is what you want. The texture will continue to firm up once removed from the oven. For crispier cookies, bake for 23-25 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to finish cooling. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Then, dive into the wonderful, flavorful combination of buttery pine nuts with almonds, creating a divinely simple experience and tasting heavenly!

MENU

Local Author Captures Love Grief & Healing

in this Personal Memoir

Dominic Condo is the author of Reflections: A Young Widower’s Journey Through Loss, Hope and Healing. In this recently released memoir, Condo documents the tragedy that he and his family endured throughout his late wife Daria’s health struggles and untimely passing, while also learning how to navigate as a solo parent to his two teenage daughters during the world-altering pandemic. Through his creative and passionate outlook on life, Condo aspires to encourage others to embrace their life’s path and to share their stories of tragedy and triumph.

Q: How did you balance the need to be honest and authentic with the need to protect the privacy of yourself and others, especially your wife and kids?

a: It was important for me to allow the reader to understand who we are and the struggles that Daria dealt with and how they impacted our family. I wanted the readers to be able to connect to our story. Many of the books that I read during this journey didn’t allow that connection. I appreciated the suggestions and advice that was shared, but I rarely connected with the authors. My approach was to be real and honest with the scenarios and the struggles they caused,

but I didn’t see the need to get into specific details. My biggest focus was to show respect to Daria, our daughters, and our entire family, who were all impacted. Daria was always an empath and a caring person. I treated this project as an extension of how Daria would have wanted to help others. It was most important to me that I treated Daria’s struggles with love, compassion, and respect.

Q: Have your daughters read the book? What were their reactions?

a: I talked openly and honestly with my daughters about the book and my ideas. It was important to me that they were okay with it, and they were. I asked if they would like to read the manuscript before I submitted it, even alerting them to certain chapters that may be a bit sensitive for them. They both chose to wait until the book was published. They’ll read the book on their own terms, if, and when, they choose to. I completely understand and respect their wishes on this.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of writing the book?

a: Writing this book has allowed me to address many emotions that I have been carrying for a long while now. I am now literally and figuratively able to put those

emotions on a shelf. I can go back to the book to revisit them if I wish. But I no longer must carry them with me throughout the days. They have been addressed, which will allow me to continue moving forward.

Q: What do you expect to be the most rewarding part once the book is released and people have access to it?

a: My long-term goal is to build all of this into a community to allow others who have dealt with grief or tragedy to share their own thoughts and experiences in an open, honest, and creative way. I know in my heart that Daria would be proud.

Q: Can you tell us about your new website?

a: My new website, www.domcondo.com, coincides with the book and is a continuation of the story. On the site, I’ll be able to share visuals of moments that I talk about in the book. My creative passion for cooking was a big savior for me, and I talk about this in the book, as well. I refer to it as food therapy, and I look forward to exploring this concept, as well.

Available on Amazon or visit https://domcondo.com

COURTESY OF MARIA MERLINO

Hoagie DIP

This dip can be made with any deli ingredients and toppings you like. The recipe below is just a suggestion!

INGREDIENTS

 1/2 cup mayonnaise

 1 tbsp. extravirgin olive oil

 1/2 tsp. dried basil

 1/2 tsp. dried oregano

 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

 Pinch of red pepper flakes

 4 cups iceberg lettuce, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1 cup red onion, diced

 1/2 cup dill pickle, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1/2 cup pepperoncini, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1/2 lb. sliced Genoa salami, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1/2 lb. sliced deli ham, cut into bite-sized pieces

 2 cups fresh tomato, cut into bite-sized pieces

DIRECTIONS

 1/4 lb. sliced sweet capicola, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1/4 lb. sliced mortadella, cut into bite-sized pieces

 1/2 lb. sliced provolone cheese, cut into bitesized pieces

 Italian sub or hoagie rolls, cut into slices

 1 cup Italian dressing

To make the dressing, combine mayonnaise, 1 tbsp. olive oil, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and pepper flakes. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, pepperoncini, salami, ham, capicola, mortadella, and provolone cheese. Toss with the mayonnaise dressing and pour into a serving bowl. Lay out the bread slices on a platter and drizzle the cup of olive oil over the bread slices as well as over the bowl of hoagie dip. Serve.

COURTESY OF POPI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

popisrestaurant . com

INGREDIENTS

 1 oz. Stoli Vanilla Vodka

 1 shot of freshly brewed espresso

 1/2 oz. Kahlua

DIRECTIONS

Mix together in a shaker, over ice. Shake and pour into glass. Top with three espresso beans.

Philly Philly

INGREDIENTS

 2 tbsp. Grapeseed Oil

 4 center cut beef top sirloin or filet mignon (6 oz each)

 24 oz. of lobster tail, cooked and large diced

 4 garlic cloves, sliced

 2 bunches of asparagus

 2 tsp. chili flakes

 Juice of 1 lemon

 Kosher salt & pepper, to taste

FOR THE MASHED POTATOES

 3 lbs. large Idaho potatoes, peeled and quartered

 4 tbsp. of butter

 1 cup of milk

 1 cup of heavy cream

 Salt & pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS COURTESY

CHEF ROBERT IRVINE’S Pan Seared BEEF & LOBSTER Thermidor

FOR THE LOBSTER THERMIDOR SAUCE

 3 tbsp. butter

 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour

 1/2 cup chicken stock

 2/3 cup milk

MASHED POTATOES

Bring a large sauce pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes. Return to a boil and cook until fork tender. Drain the water from the potatoes. In a separate small saucepan, heat butter, milk, and heavy cream. In a mixing bowl or in a warm pot and using a potato masher or an electric hand mixer, slowly blend butter, milk, and heavy cream mixture into the cooked potatoes. Potatoes should be smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

LOBSTER THERMIDOR & SAUCE

In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter and flour, making a roux. Cook the roux for about four minutes or until the flour has cooked out. Add the chicken stock, milk, and tomato paste. Cook for another four minutes. Deglaze the pan

 1/2 cup of tomato paste

 3/4 cup of white wine

 3 tbsp. Sherry

 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

 1 bunch of tarragon, picked & chopped

with white wine and Sherry. Continue to cook for another three minutes. Finish the sauce with Dijon mustard and chopped tarragon.

BEEF SAUCE

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the shallots and garlic. Cook for about one minute. Deglaze the pan with the red wine and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and allow to reduce for 30 seconds. Add the beef demi-glacé and allow to come to a simmer. Finish the sauce by whisking in the Sherry vinegar. Add kosher salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. Keep warm.

FINISH & PLATING

Pre-heat oven to 350. Place a medium stock pot of salted water on high heat and bring to a boil. Place the asparagus into the pot of boiling water and cook for three minutes until tender. Remove

FOR THE BEEF SAUCE

 1 shallot, minced

 2 garlic cloves minced

 1 cup of red wine

 2 oz. of heavy cream

 3 cups of beef or veal demiglacé (store bought)

 2 tbsp. sherry vinegar

 Kosher salt & pepper, to taste

the asparagus from the water and place into ice water to cool down. In a mixing bowl add lobster and Thermidor sauce. In a large sauté pan over medium high heat, add the grapeseed oil. Season the steaks with salt and pepper and sear on all sides for three minutes. Place the pan of seared steaks in a 350° oven for 9 to 12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 125°F (medium rare). Remove the cooked steaks from the pan and allow the steaks to rest while finishing the meal. Use the same sauté pan that the steaks were cooked in and add sliced garlic. Lightly toast. Add asparagus and lemon juice. Place the mashed potatoes in the center of the plate. Add the asparagus. Remove the steak from the oven and top with lobster. Place the steak on top of the asparagus. Finish everything with the beef sauce. www.chefirvine.com

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello

Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano D’Abruzzo $19

COURTESY OF CAROLYN VASSALLO

Shrimp & Beans Florentine

The historic rebirth of one of Italy’s premier cafes

Authentic Italian on-line market & restaurant

Mail Order Gelato Award Winning Coffee

Luxury Chocolate

Italian Olive Oils

DOP Salumi & Formaggi

Bath/Beauty * and more

 1 1/2 lbs (size 40/50) cooked shrimp

 1 lb dry cannellini beans, rinsed

 1 cup celery hearts cut into small cubes

INGREDIENTS

 1 handful fresh basil chopped

 4 fresh plumb tomatoes peeled if desired, cut into cubes

 Extra Virgin Olive Oil

DIRECTIONS

 Salt & pepper to taste

 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to taste (optional)

Soak beans overnight. Rinse. Add cold water to cover & cook on low flame until tender. Add celery, tomatoes, basil & cooked shrimp. Simmer until celery and tomatoes are soft and well blended. Once it is cooked, top with enough extra virgin olive oil to coat the ingredients. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Serves 10

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello Wente Chardonnay $13

COURTESY OF CAFFE IDA

Albanian TRILECE CAKE

{Three Milk Cake}

This cake was popular during the Ottoman Empire. The three milks they used were goat, cow, and buffalo. Today, we use cow’s milk only. It is a dessert rage all over Europe.

 6 large eggs

 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE

 2 cups all-purpose flour

 2 tsp. baking powder

INGREDIENTS FOR THE MILK MIXTURE

2 tsp. vanilla extract

 2 cups whole milk  1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk  1 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS FOR THE CARAMEL TOPPING

 2 cups granulated sugar

 1/2 cup water

DIRECTIONS

 1 cup heavy cream

 1/4 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13inch baking dish and line the bottom with parchment paper. Separate the eggs into yolks and whites. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually, add the sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and forms stiff peaks. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gently fold in the vanilla extract. Sift the flour and baking powder together, then fold into the egg mixture until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.

PREPARE THE MILK MIXTURE

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface with a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake absorb the milk mixture for at least an hour or refrigerate overnight for best results.

PREPARE THE CARAMEL TOPPING

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream and salt (the mixture will bubble up). Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cake. Once the caramel has set, slice the cake into 16 squares and serve chilled.

Crockpot

APPLE COBBLER

Philly Philly

I am always looking for new and easy dessert recipes for my holiday table. This year, I made an apple cobbler…or should I say, the crockpot made it for me! This was absolutely delicious, and my house smelled like I had been baking all day! This was a hit with my family and has been added to my long list of favorites!

INGREDIENTS

 2 cans of apple pie filling

 1 box vanilla cake mix

 1 stick of butter

 2 tbsp. vanilla

 2 tsp. cinnamon

 1 cup chopped walnuts

 Vanilla ice cream

DIRECTIONS

Pour the pie filling into the crockpot. Cut butter into slices and spread it evenly on top. Add the cake mix, walnuts, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir to make sure everything is incorporated. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. When the top is golden brown, it’s done! I served this with vanilla ice cream on the side.

COURTESY OF DEBBIE RUSSINO

COURTESY OF CAROLYN VASSALLO

Ricotta FRITTERS

IN MEMORY OF CAROLINE ANGEROME

 Vegetable oil for frying

 3 large eggs

 1/3 c sugar

Philly Philly MENU

Preheat a large sauté pan on medium high heat. Dredge the chicken in flour on both sides. Add vegetable oil to the pan and then add the chicken. Sauté until golden brown on both sides. Remove chicken from the pan and dispose of the

INGREDIENTS

 1 tsp vanilla

 1/2 lb ricotta cheese

 1 1/4 c allpurpose flour

DIRECTIONS

 2 tsp baking powder

 Mix confectioners sugar with cinnamon for dusting. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat eggs. Add sugar, vanilla and ricotta and beat until smooth. Add flour & baking powder. In large saucepan, heat 2 inches of oil (about 375 degrees). Use a large spoon to scoop batter and drop into oil. Fry until golden brown. While hot or cool, roll in sugar mixture. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

COURTESY OF POPI’S RESTAURANT

CHICKEN Sicilian

popisrestaurant . com

INGREDIENTS

 2 oz Vegetable Oil

 1 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, butterflied

 as needed All Purpose Flour

 1 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

DIRECTIONS

oil. Turn heat down to medium low. Add 1 tsp butter, mushrooms, cherry peppers, olives, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the pan and deglaze the pan with the white wine, making sure to scrape up any brown bits that are stuck to the bottom of the pan (that’s where all the flavor is!). Reduce the

 2 tsp Unsalted Butter

 pinch Kosher Salt

 pinch Ground Black Pepper

 2 oz Dry White Wine

 4 oz Chicken Stock

 1 tbsp Oil Cured Black Olives, pitted

 1 tbsp Cherry Peppers, sliced

 1 tbsp Button Mushrooms, sliced & roasted

wine by half and add the chicken stock. Dredge the remaining 1 tsp of butter in flour. Once the chicken stock comes to a boil, whisk in the butter. Return the chicken to the pan and flip to make sure the sauce is coating both sides. Plate the chicken and top with the remaining sauce from the pan.

COURTESY OF ROBERT PASSIO

FILET MIGNON

with Peppercorn Sauce

lombardimeats . com

INGREDIENTS FOR FILET MIGNON

 4 6 oz. filets

 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

 3 tbsp. cracked black peppercorns

 1 tbsp. cracked red peppercorns

 1/2 tbsp. kosher salt

 Ingredients for Sauce

 3 cups of your favorite robust red wine

 3 tbsp. butter, divided

 2 minced shallots

 1/2 tbsp. crushed black peppercorns

 1/2 cup brandy

 1/2 cup heavy cream

 1/2 cup beef stock

 Salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS

Pour wine into a nonreactive saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce over medium-high heat for about 20 minutes until about 1/2 cup remains. Heat two tbsp. of butter in a small saucepan, sauté shallots and peppercorns over medium heat for two minutes. Add brandy. Ignite carefully for three-four minutes, until alcohol is burned off. Continue cooking until the pan is almost dry; add cream, increase heat to medium-high, and cook for three minutes. Stir in reduced wine, cook over medium heat for 10 more minutes. Stir in remaining tbsp. of butter, season with salt, and simmer for about 10 minutes, until one cup remains. Bring filets to room temperature. Brush both sides with mustard. Combine black and red peppercorns and salt on a plate. Roll filets in mixture, pressing to coat each side well. Grill over medium-high heat about five minutes per side if you’d like them to be medium-rare, or six-seven minutes for medium. Spoon warm brandy-peppercorn sauce over filets before serving.

Lombardi’s Prime Meats is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine Business Network.

COURTESY OF VICTORIA DIPIETRO

Crunchy THAI SALAD

SALAD INGREDIENTS

 4 cups white & red cabbage (shredded like slaw)

 1 cup shredded carrot

 1 red bell pepper

 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

 1/4 cup water

 2 tbsp. rice vinegar

 2 tbsp. fresh lime (from 1 lime)

 3 tbsp. avocado oil

 3 scallions (thinly sliced)

 1/2 cup cilantro

DRESSING

 1 tbsp. soy sauce

 2 tbsp. honey

 2 tbsp. sugar

 2 cloves garlic minced

 1 inch ginger (peeled and minced)

 2 tbsp. cilantro

DIRECTIONS

Mix. Top with chopped peanuts if desired.

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello Les Coteaux Tufiers Demi-Sec Vouvray Chenin Blanc $16

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello Castelli Chianti Classico $17

Wine Know Traditions

by VINCENT R. NOVELLO JR.

South Philadelphia, known for its rich Italian American and multicultural heritage, boasts a vibrant array of food and wine traditions. Sunday Gravy (Pasta and Gravy), the slow-cooked tomatoes with meatballs, sausages, and braciola, served with pasta is a beloved Sunday tradition.

Winemaking is another tradition. Many South Philly families make their own wine, often from grapes imported from California or Italy. It’s a tradition passed down for generations and celebrated with tastings and family

gatherings. Wine is a staple at the dinner table, with reds like Chianti and Montepulciano frequently paired with Italian meals (See wine pairings listed in The Menu section of this issue). We also have other multicultural influences such as Mexican taquerias, Vietnamese pho shops, and other cuisines that have made South Philly a culinary melting pot. South Philly’s culinary culture thrives on its ability to honor the handeddown traditions of food and wine while embracing new influences, making it a true foodie destination.

Wine Recommendations

RED WINES

CONDE VALDEMAR TERMPRANILLO $11

CASTELLI CHIANTI Classico $17

CHATEAU FLEUR HAUT Gaussen Bordeaux $17

RIOJA Reserva $13

CANTINA ZACCAGNINI Montepulciano D’Abruzzo $19

ROSÉ

RODNEY STRONG ROSÉ of Pinot Noir $15

NOTORIOUS Pink Rosé $15

WHITE

WENTE Chardonnay $13

CHATEAU LA FREYNELLE Bordeaux Blanc $13

LES COTEAUX TUFIERS

Demi-Sec Vouvray Chenin Blanc $16

GOLDEN Chardonnay $15

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

COURTESY

OF CHEF MITZI JACKSON

HEALTHY

Sweet Potato Casserole

with Pecan Maple Crumble

INGREDIENTS

 4-5 large, sweet potatoes

 Cinnamon, to taste

 Nutmeg, to taste

 1 cup of pecans

 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup

 1 cup rolled oats

 1/2 cup almond milk

 1 egg (optional)

 3 tbsp. of vegan butter

 1 tbsp. vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

Roast your sweet potatoes until softened. In a mixing bowl, add the peeled sweet potato, almond milk, 1 egg, vanilla extract, and 1/2 of your maple syrup. Mix it all together. Then add your cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread in a casserole dish. Mix together your rolled oats, vegan butter, pecans, and the other half of your maple syrup. spread over your sweet potato mixture. Bake in a preheated oven on 375 until golden brown.

Serve Warm.

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello

Notorious Pink Rose $15

COURTESY OF JULIANNA CONDO & DOM CONDO

Julianna’s Easy RED PEPPER

SauceAlfredo & Pasta

This recipe is courtesy of my daughter, Julianna, who is a junior at West Chester University. She enjoys cooking her own meals, and this is one of her regular go-to dishes. Just a few ingredients and minimal prep and cooking time. Perfect for any college student…or anyone who is looking for a quick, easy, and tasty weeknight dinner!

INGREDIENTS

 2 tbsp. butter

 1 cup heavy whipping cream

 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 4 oz. roasted red peppers

 1 clove garlic

 Salt & pepper, to taste

 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

 1/2 lb. uncooked elbow pasta (or your choice of pasta)

DIRECTIONS

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (you will add your pasta to the water about halfway through mixing your sauce ingredients). Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. For a slightly nuttier taste, you can let the butter start to brown. Add the heavy cream, whisk together until fully combined. Lower the heat, add the Parmesan cheese and continue to whisk until fully combined. Add the pasta to the boiling water. Let the sauce simmer and thicken over medium low heat, whisking occasionally. In a food processor or blender, purée the roasted red peppers and garlic. Add the purée and the chopped parsley to the sauce, whisk together. Add salt and pepper to taste. When the pasta is al-dente, remove it from the water and stir it into the saucepan. Make sure that the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some additional pasta water, a bit at a time.

Serves 4. Enjoy!

Crab Cakes&

SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

 2 large eggs

 2 1/2 tsp. mayonnaise

Of course you do. And so do thousands of

Advertising brings new business to your doorstep and reminds old customers to keep coming

PRH

 1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

 1 tsp. Old Bay

 1/4 tsp. salt, if desired

 1/4 cup finely diced celery (1 stalk)

 2 tbsp. fresh parsley

 1 lb. lump crabmeat

 1/2 cup panko

 Neutral oil for cooking

DIRECTIONS

Line a baking sheet. Combine eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon, Worcestershire, Old Bay, salt, celery, and parsley in a large bowl. Mix well. Add crab and panko; gently fold in. Make six crab cakes and place them on your baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Preheat a nonstick frying pan with oil. When oil gets hot, add crab cakes and cook for 3-5 minutes on medium heat on each side.

EASY TARTAR SAUCE

 1 cup of mayonnaise

 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped

 2 tbsp. minced red onion

 1 tsp. granulated sugar

 1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley or dill

 1 tbsp. lemon juice

 Salt & fresh ground black pepper

PRH Signature Wine Pairings courtesy of Vincent Novello Golden Chardonnay $15

COURTESY OF VICTORIA DIPIETRO

INGREDIENTS

 1 lb linguini pasta

 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter

 10-12 fresh sage leaves

 1 lemon, juiced

 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano

 Salt & black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and continue stirring the butter for about 7 minutes until you see browned bits and the sage leaves look crispy. Stir in the lemon juice. When the pasta is done cooking, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta into a colander placed in the sink. Add the drained pasta to the brown butter and use tongs to toss it in the sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Sprinkle in the cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with more cheese on top.

to 8:30pm

COURTESY OF MARIA MERLINO

Imagine the moment... Now let’s get started! Eventing with Jade

Because Parties aren’t Planned, They’re Created Best vendors. Best prices. Best options. Any occasion. All ages. At home or a venue of your choice.

Options Available Include: Food DJ

Photographer Decorations Cake Favors Themes Moon Bounces Balloon Arches Even the perfect party outfit! And more!

Whatever you need. Consider it done! Eventing.with.Jade on IG

267.240.5302

Let’s plan a party!

My mother made the best chocolate mousse using Julia Child’s recipe. I remember everyone at the table clapping when she served this.

INGREDIENTS

 4 egg yolks

 3/4 cup instant sugar

 1/4 cup orange liqueur

 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate

 1/4 cup strongly brewed coffee

 1-1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened (6 oz.)

 1/4 cup finely diced sugared orange peel, optional

 4 egg whites

 Pinch of salt

 1 tbsp. granulated sugar

 Whipped cream for serving

DIRECTIONS

Heat a saucepan one-third full of hot water. Set a bow on top, melt together chocolate, butter and coffee, stirring over barely simmering water until smooth. Remove from heat. Fill a large bowl with ice water and set aside. In a bowl large enough to sit securely on the saucepan of simmering water, whisk yolks of the eggs with about 2/3 cup of sugar, liqueur, and water until the mixture is thick (you can also use a handheld electric mixer). Remove from heat and place the bowl of whipped egg yolks within the bowl of ice water. Beat until cool and thick. Fold the chocolate mixture into the egg yolks. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with salt until frothy. Beat until they start to hold their shape. Whip in the tablespoon of sugar and continue to beat until thick, but not completely stiff, then add vanilla. Fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture, fold in the remainder of the whites just until incorporated, don’t overdo it or the mousse will lose volume. Transfer the mousse to a serving bowl or into serving dishes. Refrigerate for four hours, until firm. Serve with whipped cream.

by

Joe Volpe

VENDOR CREDITS

Venue: The National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia (Ceremony), The Lucy (Reception)

Entertainment: SCE Events, DJ Jason Jani

Percussionist: Crystal

Saxophone Player: Art

Photography: Magdalena Studios

Lead Photographer: Ashley

Videography: The Neskes, Melissa & Steve Neskes

Florals/ Seating Chart/ Dance Floor: Beautiful Blooms

Invitations: Beacon Lane

Dress Designer: Made with Love

– purchased at Lighthouse Bridal

Grooms Wear Designer: Sagets Formal Wear

We are excited to introduce the amazing couple, Mr. & Mrs. Palladino, who celebrated their big day at The Lucy with Cescaphe. Their wedding was a perfect reflection of their love and joy, with every detail infused with their vibrant energy. From start to finish, their enthusiasm was evident in every moment. The gorgeous photos only begin to capture the beauty and magic of this unforgettable celebration!

How did you meet?

We met working in South Florida at a country club while attending Florida Atlantic University. Matthew was a caddy and I [Jamie] worked as a waitress.

How did the proposal happen?

The proposal happened in New York City. Matthew surprised me with a trip to the Big Apple for what I thought was a weekend getaway for two, but it turns out we were celebrating the big news with both of our families. Matthew planned on taking the scenic route to dinner from our hotel through Central Park. When he saw an opening where there weren’t too many people around, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. No cameras and no big crowd, just the two of us.

Why did you choose a Cescaphe wedding?

We chose a Cescaphe Wedding because we were so impressed and blown away with how they treated us from our first meeting. We felt like royalty. The Cescaphe team really works hard to help you with anything you need throughout the entire process. Especially, being from out of town, it was nice to be able to use Cescaphe as a central point of communication and ask about vendor options that we didn’t know. They provided us with a bunch of options to choose from and then were able to put you in contact with them. They made the process of wedding planning so easy and simple from our first meeting to the wedding day.

What

was your favorite part about wedding planning?

Our favorite part about wedding planning was getting my wedding dress and Matt’s suit. We also had a lot of fun when we took a weekend trip to Philadelphia for our final meeting at The Lucy to pick out our menus and essentially lay out the plan for the actual wedding day. We were both filled with so much excite ment that our wedding day was just around the corner. It was such a sur real feeling that it was all happening.

What was your favorite part of your wedding?

Our favorite part about our wedding was walking the room when we first got there and taking it all in. A year of planning and then finally seeing our vision come to life was just incredible. Not to mention, dancing the night away with all our friends and family was just the icing on the cake. We never wanted it to end. So much love was felt all around that entire day.

What advice would you give to future brides and grooms?

Enjoy the wedding planning journey. Before you know it, your special day will have come and gone. At times, you can feel like you are on decisionmaking overload, so it may be best to lay out some fundamental ideas that are important for you to have on your wedding day and keep them for reference, so you don’t stray from your vision.

What did you do to make your wedding day extra special?

Instead of giving out party favors, we chose to donate to a few charities that were close to our hearts. Many brides before me have told me that a lot of party favors were left behind. After hearing that, it made us reconsider favors. We donated what we would have spent on them. Also, it was so special to see how many people came from all over to be there for us on our special day. Truly, our day wouldn’t have been our “best day ever” without our guests.

VIBES

Celebrate 40 years with Me!

by DJ Johnny Looch

MUSIC

Valentine’s Day at The Grand Belle by Cescaphe

On Friday, February 14th, we are having ourselves a night. It is a night designed for dinner, cocktails, and dancing. A typical night for a DJ, but one with a lot of special meaning for me. When the bell rang in 2025, I marked the start of celebrating 40 years in business! Forty years of DJing. Forty years of making people smile and laugh and setting up festive and happy atmospheres.

On Friday night, February 14th, we are celebrating 40 years of DJing with yours truly, Johnny Looch. This special event is taking place at the famous and historic Bellevue Hotel, in their newest ballroom, The Grand Belle by Cescaphe.

Tickets are moving fast, but there are still some available. I would love to have you all there.

This night is a night to celebrate with everyone I’ve worked with over the past 40 years – the brides, the venues, the photographers. All of you! I would love to have you there celebrating with me. Let’s have ourselves a night.

Joseph Volpe, owner of Cescaphe Event Group and the host of this event, suggested that we make the night even more significant by donating a portion of the proceeds to the estate of my sister, Christina Maria Luciano, who passed away 13 months ago. There isn’t another human being on this earth that I would want there to celebrate with me. I miss her every day. So, let’s celebrate. Let’s celebrate a night out. Let’s celebrate Valentine’s Day. Let’s celebrate 40 years. And let’s celebrate my sister, Christina Maria Luciano. I want you there. I need you there. And I pray and hope you can make it. Join me. Friday night, February 14th, 2025. The Grand Belle by Cescaphe at The Bellevue, celebrating 40 years in business, with yours truly, Johnny Looch. Tickets are $200. Contact ree@johnnylooch.com PRH

Florist & Decorators • Flowers for All Occasions As Beautiful as a Memory

215.463.5485

2515 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Celebrating 50 years www petalpusherflowers net Call for a Complimentary Consultation John & JoAnn Vacca Flowers for all occasions

Jade & John Locascio

Happily Ever After

No event comes to life without the creativity and hard work of the incredible people in the background. Dreams really do come true, thanks to all of you.

VENDOR CREDITS

And a very special thank you to the amazing staff

at The Waterfall Room by Swan Caterers.

Photography: Andrew Andreozzi Photography

Tuxedos: Rudi’s Formal Wear

Florist: The Petal Pusher

Hair & Makeup: Flawless Finish Artistry

Wedding Cake: Donna Seravalli DJ: Jimmy Seravalli

Décor: DiCicco Décor

Talia Rota Photography

PRHFASHION

Carlette Ciccone

This year welcomes a new business to the heart of South Philadelphia. Located at 1307 Mifflin Street, Unfiltered Medical Aesthetics LLC offers clients an array of services like Botox, Hyaluronic Acid Fillers, and Weight Management Services. Co-founded by Gabriella Stezzi MSN, FNP-BC, and Dominique Nave BSN, RN, the main goal of the Unfiltered team is to make clients feel safe, confident, and beautiful. Stezzi and Nave grew up in South Philadelphia and became friends while working as Registered Nurses at Methodist Hospital. What started as a loose conversation over dinner, quickly turned

into a business plan.

“The location kind of fell into our laps,” Stezzi says. “I grew up right off East Passyunk Avenue, so I’m always down that area. I was driving down 13th street the way I usually do and saw that part of the building was for rent and thought, that’s wild, because it’s such a nice area. Everything worked out and now, we are here.”

Nave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Pennsylvania State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Holy Family University.

“I’ve been a nurse for about four years now and I work in Cardiac Intensive Care as my background,” Nave says. “I got into nursing because I really like to help people and make them feel better. I started getting into Aesthetics because of that exact reason. Making people feel like the best version of themselves feels so rewarding to me.”

Stezzi has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Neumann University and a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Jefferson University.

“I’ve also been a nurse for about four years, and I have been in the Aesthetics field, as well, for about four-and-a-half years, now,” Stezzi says. “It definitely is rewarding seeing the transformations and how such little can go a long way. Since I was younger, I always had an interest in dermatology and

skincare. You kind of combine it with makeup and get Aesthetics.”

“We have a lot of ideas, not only expanding our services, but bringing in other services, as well,” Nave says. “I think that this is our end-goal of a full-time business.”

Unfiltered Medical Aesthetics is ready to offer clients the best in Botox, Hyaluronic Acid Fillers, and Weight Management Services. Future plans include facial services, micro needling, and an expanded line of injectables, based on client interests.

“We want [clients] to feel welcomed. We want our space to be inviting to them,” Stezzi says.

Nave echoes Stezzi’s statement.

“We want people to feel safe and confident. We come from extensive educational backgrounds, have done extensive training, and put in a lot of time and effort to make sure we’re the best version of ourselves. And to provide these services to people to feel safe, comfortable, confident, and more beautiful when they leave.”

Unfiltered is currently offering discounted rates if an appointment is booked before February 1, 2025. Book online at www.unfilteredmedicalaesthetics.com. Or visit Unfiltered on social media including Facebook and Instagram.

Unfiltered Medical Aesthetics is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Business Network.

by Anthony Panvini

photos by Hailie DelVecchio / @hailiedphotography

Winter Wedding Trends will Warm the Heart

Waves, Braids & Berry Lips set the Tone

A winter wedding brings a unique sense of romance and magic with frosty landscapes, cozy candlelight, and a dreamy atmosphere. Your hair and makeup should capture the beauty of the season while complementing your personal style. When it comes to hair and makeup for your special day, this enchanting season offers the perfect opportunity to embrace warm, glowing tones and sophisticated styles that stand out against the crisp, cool backdrop. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic updo or a bold lip to complement the season, we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you shine.

Hair Ideas

▮ Loose waves with sparkling hair accessories. Soft, romantic waves are timeless and versatile. These work beautifully on both medium and long hair and pair well with any neckline or veil. Add a touch of sparkle with a crystalencrusted headband, hair pins, or a small comb placed to one side. Pearl accessories also look great and add a wintery feel.

▮ Elegant low chignon or bun. A low chignon is a sophisticated updo that keeps the hair tidy and in place. It’s also ideal if you’re wearing a high-collar or long-sleeved gown. A high bun is a versatile hairstyle that can beautifully highlight your facial structure, elongate your neck, and create an effortlessly chic look, perfect for enhancing elegance and showcasing your features. Don’t forget to add bling. A vintage-inspired brooch or crystal clip at the base of the bun adds a touch of glamour.

▮ Old Hollywood waves. Think classic, polished, sideparted waves reminiscent of the 1940s glamour. This style works especially well if you’re aiming for a more dramatic or formal look. A hair adornment is especially important for old Hollywood waves. Pair with an asymmetrical hair clip with crystals or feathers for a vintage holiday vibe.

▮ Half-Up, Half-Down with braided detail. For a more relaxed style that’s still elegant, try a half-up hairstyle with loose waves or soft curls. Adding a braided detail can elevate the look. Of course, you should add a hair accessory. Winter-inspired hair pins or a small tiara can add a subtle yet festive touch.

Makeup Ideas

Classic Winter Glam with Red Lips

Eyes. Soft smokey eyes in shades like taupe, brown,

or gold. Finish with a thin, defined eyeliner and voluminous lashes.

Skin. A flawless, radiant base with a bit of contour and warm blush (rose or mauve).

Lips. Bold red or berry lips are classic for a winter wedding. Matte or satin finish works well, as they’re long-lasting.

Natural & Glowing with

Soft Pinks

Eyes. A light, shimmery eyeshadow in champagne or blush tones. Go easy on the eyeliner for a softer look, and enhance with long, wispy lashes.

Skin. Focus on a dewy, fresh base with light blush in a pink or peach shade.

Lips. Go for soft pink or nude lipstick, perhaps with a gloss finish to keep it fresh and romantic.

Golden Glow with Nude Lips

Eyes. Go for warm, golden, or bronze tones on the eyes with a bit of shimmer.

Skin. A luminous base with a warm, bronzy blush and highlighter for a radiant look.

Lips. Nude lips with a satin or gloss finish balance out the golden tones and look stunning.

Smokey Eyes with Subtle Nude or Plum Lips

Eyes. Try a deeper smokey eye using shades of charcoal or plum for a dramatic winter feel. Skin. Soft matte or satin foundation, with a hint of cool-toned blush.

Lips. A subtle nude lip, or for a bolder look, go for a plum or berry tone that matches the eyes.

Extra Tips

Skincare Prep. Cold weather can dry out skin, so hydrate well and consider using a primer for smooth makeup application.

Setting Products. For longer wear, use a good setting spray and waterproof mascara to prevent smudging.

Body Highlighter. Add a subtle glow to your décolletage and shoulders for an extra touch of radiance if they’re exposed.

Your wedding day is a celebration of love and individuality, and your hair and makeup should reflect just that. With the right preparation, expert advice, and a touch of creativity, you can walk down the aisle feeling confident, radiant, and truly yourself. After all, the most beautiful bride is one who feels her best—inside and out. Here’s to a day filled with joy, love, and timeless beauty! PRH

by VICTORIA DIPIETRO

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

www bella - angel com

PORTUGAL

Wine & Dine your way through this Magical Gem

by Victoria Draper, Owner of Travel with Pam Draper

travelwithpamdraper com

As a travel agent, I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, but there’s something truly magical about Portugal - from its beaches and cliffs to the cobblestone streets. On my recent trip, I discovered hidden gems, tasted world-class wines, and dined at unforgettable restaurants – all of which reaffirmed why Portugal is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most beloved destinations. Here are the highlights of my adventure and why this country should be at the top of your travel list. I started my adventure in Porto, a city of old-world charm. Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is not just famous for its architecture but also for its port wine. I had the pleasure of visiting a few wine cellars. Sitting in the gardens of the Taylor’s Vineyard was a highlight of my trip. Porto’s culinary scene is equally impressive. I dined at several amazing restaurants, including Flow Restaurant & Bar. Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, was the next stop on my vacation. Wandering through the colorful streets, where fado music fills the air, Lisbon offers something for every traveler. One of the most memorable experi-

ences was having a spritz on a rooftop restaurant & bar overlooking the Tagus River.

A day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais is the perfect way to spend the day. Sintra feels like a world apart with its fairytale palaces and boutique shops. After exploring Sintra’s enchanting sights and having some lunch, I headed to Cascais, a beach town with plenty of shopping options – the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

The Algarve, located in the southernmost region of Portugal, is a true coastal paradise. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. I spent time at Pine Cliffs resort, relaxing at their spa & dining at their cliffside restaurant overlooking the coastline. Venture into Albufeira for some nightlife and unforgettable restaurants. The Algarve offers an amazing combination of natural beauty and relaxation.

Portugal is a destination that is a must on your bucket list. Portugal is a place where food and drink is an experience of its own, making it a must-visit for any foodie – with stunning views along the way. I am incredibly excited to plan your trip to Portugal and introduce you to our drivers and favorite restaurants during your once-in-a-lifetime adventure to this beautiful destination. PRH

Travel with Pam Draper is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine Business Network.

TRAVEL

Bacon Brothers The

RETURN TO PHILLY ROOTS FOR FISHTOWN SHOW AT RIVERS CASINO PHILADELPHIA

Michael and Kevin Bacon fans are in for a treat when Philadelphia’s own The Bacon Brothers bring their unique blend of folk, rock, soul, and country music to Fishtown and Rivers Casino on Feb. 22, 2025.

While most fans know Kevin Bacon, an A-list Hollywood actor, from his starring roles in “Footloose” and “A Few Good Men,” many are surprised to learn he’s performed alongside his brother Michael for the better part of three decades. And Michael’s an entertainment star in his own right.

As a celebrated Emmy-winning composer, Michael has scored three Academy Award-winning films. The brothers’ musical partnership began long ago in Philadelphia, where the Bacons were raised on a soundtrack of 1970s singer-songwriters, Philly soul bands and classic rock acts. Countless shows later, the Bacons are creating their own soundtrack, saluting

their old-school influences while making music that’s undeniably modern. The tradition continues on the Rivers Event Center stage on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m.

Known for their diverse sound they call “forosoco,” The Bacon Brothers explore their unique, eclectic sound that’s taken them around the world, from headlining gigs in Japan to performances at iconic American venues like Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry and Gruene Hall.

Both Bacons write music, sing lead vocals and play guitar, backed by a full band. Their 12th album release, “Ballad Of The Brothers,” highlights not only the similarities between Kevin and Michael but their

differences too. They’ve grown into sharp songwriters and cinematic storytellers with their own distinctive approaches, offering a mix of edgy alt-rock (“Take Off This Tattoo”), Motown-inspired soul (“Put Your Hand Up”), finger-picked folk (“Let That Be Enough”) and everything in between.

Tickets for this one-night-only show are on sale now and start at $39.

Guests will find additional entertainment at the Rivers Casino Philadelphia website, which is updated frequently.

Rivers Casino Philadelphia is a member of the Philadelphia RowHome (PRH) Magazine Business Network.

PRHMUSIC&ART

Equilibrium Dance Academy

by Rachel Porter

Angelica Spilis, Artistic Director at Equilibrium Dance Academy, is a massive fan of Madonna.

Spilis grew up listening to the pop icon’s music and attending her concerts. During Madonna’s MDNA tour, the concert was her graduation gift.

Spilis remembers asking her dad, ‘What made you buy her first album?’ He said he went to the store and thought Madonna looked a little strange, the way she was posed on the album, but he figured he’d try her music and liked it. When she released more albums, he bought them for Spilis.

She wanted to put on a show inspired by Madonna’s music.

“When I put the show together, I wanted it to make sense. I did not want to include random Madonna things,” Spilis says. So, she invited some guest choreographers and dance companies to come in and help.

The show opens with “The Beast Within” and closes with “Frozen.” In some of Madonna’s songs from her American Life album, she talks about being misunderstood by people, how people should be kinder to each other, and how people don’t get to know each other. Spilis says Madonna stood up for women’s and LGBT+ rights and believes people can relate to these issues. The American Life section of the show is being choreographed by the dance company Checkmate Experience. The director of Empire Dance

Company will choreograph another piece, “Like a Prayer.” Spilis also is hiring a lighting designer to make the setting for the show more theatrical. Some music contains harsh language, so a parental advisory warning is issued for anyone under 13.

“I told myself I would not sugarcoat things. I want to do it the way Madonna does it in concert,” Spilis says. “Everyone has a comfort zone they want to stay in because they know that’s what they’re good at, but I’ve been pushing myself as a choreographer and not holding myself back.”

Spilis includes her favorite Madonna song, “Frozen,” because she used this song a lot throughout college at Temple University. It was part of her BFA thesis when she graduated.

“Every time you see Madonna in concert, she never does the same thing. She is constantly reinventing herself, which inspired me to do the same. Each time Spilis creates a new choreography routine, she asks herself how she can be original.

The production will feature 15-20 Madonna songs, including contemporary, jazz, and hiphop dance styles. The spring show is scheduled to debut on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Equilibrium Dance Academy, 1802 S. Broad Street, is raising money for its production of The Beast Within, Inspired by Madonna. To donate, visit their GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/e407b1ff. PRH

TKTS

COMES TO PHILADELPHIA!

by Marialena Rago

The new TKTS booth in Philadelphia, which opened late last year, marks a significant addition to the city’s thriving theatre scene. Located at 599 Market Street, the booth is strategically positioned in the heart of Philadelphia’s Independence Visitor Center. It is the first of its kind in Philadelphia, designed to bring the experience of affordable, discounted tickets to the city’s residents and visitors.

The booth, operated by the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), is modeled after its iconic counterparts in New York City. Patrons can expect up to 50 percent off tickets for Broadway and off-Broadway productions, as well as other live performances, including touring shows and local theater events. This makes it an invaluable resource for theatergoers who may not have the budget for full-price tickets, but still want to experience high-quality live performances.

The booth’s opening was a significant milestone for Philadelphia’s arts community, reflecting the city’s growing reputation as a cultural hub. Philadelphia has long been home to a variety of theaters, from historic venues like the historic Walnut Street Theatre, to contemporary spaces like Ensemble Arts. The TKTS booth further reinforces the city’s commitment to accessible arts and provides an added incentive for both tourists and locals to engage with the city’s vibrant theater offerings. This addition not only broadens the audience for local venues but also strengthens the region’s cultural economy by making theatre more affordable and accessible to a wider demographic. The new TKTS booth in Philadelphia promises to be a game-changer in the city’s live entertainment scene. PRH

PRHMUSIC&ART

Jukebox

by John Nacchio

The jukebox is a classic factor in the evolution of American popular culture during the entire 100 years of the 1900s. It progressed alongside the invention of recorded music, creating the driving force behind the ever-growing popular music industry, Radio Disc Jockeys (DJs), and the creation of new music and musical artists. Through the century, this clever machine became a staple at diners, bars, and other public places, providing a new form of entertainment. The basic jukebox is a coin-operated music-playing device that enables users to select songs from a collection of records. Over time, it evolved to include CDs, digital files, and laser video disks. The traditional jukebox has buttons with letters and numbers to choose specific tracks, often enhanced with lively decorative lighting. It is either a large stand-alone floor model or a series of mini-model stations, often found at every booth in diners for private listening. Flipping through the rolodex panels of song titles and artists was a teen’s favorite thing to do, back in the day!

Philadelphia’s radio DJs played a crucial role in popularizing the latest music, which often found its way onto jukeboxes. DJs like Georgie Woods and Jerry Blavat were influential in shaping the city’s musical tastes. TV exploded with popular music locally and countrywide with Philadelphia’s teen dance parties and American Bandstand with Dick Clark.

Jukeboxes not only provided entertainment, but also played a crucial role in building the multi-million-dollar music industry by promoting new records and artists. Jukeboxes have left an indelible mark on Philadelphia’s music scene, serving as a bridge between different eras and musical styles. The Jukebox remains a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era, cherished by many for its retro charm and historical significance.

Key Milestones

1889. Louis Glass and William S. Arnold invented the first coin-operated phonograph, known as the “nickel-in-the-slot” machine. It was placed

in the Palais Royale Saloon in San Francisco. 1927. The Automated Musical Instrument Company introduced one of the first selective jukeboxes, allowing users to choose from multiple records.

1928. Justus P. Seeburg combined an electrostatic loudspeaker with a coin-operated record player, providing a choice of eight records. This innovation marked a significant step towards the modern jukebox.

1940. The word “jukebox” only came into use in the United States beginning in 1940, derived from the familiar usage, “juke joint,” a language of ethnic Gullah (an African American group living in the U.S. Southeast). The word juke, which means “bawdy,” is associated with unreputable places. Manufacturers of jukeboxes avoided using the popular vernacular term for many years. 1945. By the mid-1940s, 75 percent of the records produced in America were destined for jukeboxes. They became a staple in bars, diners, and other social venues, offering an affordable and accessible way to enjoy music.

1950s. The introduction of 45 RPM vinyl records by the Seeburg Corporation revolutionized jukeboxes, making them more compact and efficient. 1960s-1990s. Jukeboxes reached peak popularity. The advent of transistor radios and portable record players in the 1960s posed a challenge to the jukebox industry. As music consumption habits shifted, jukebox sales began to decline.

2000s. Many classic jukeboxes were relegated to antique shops or private collections. Popular jukebox brands include Wurlitzer, Seeburg, Rock-Ola, and AMI. 2020s. Digital music has replaced traditional jukeboxes with music streaming apps that incorporate features mimicking the jukebox experience, enabling users to select songs and create shared playlists. Some bars, diners and restaurants in Philadelphia still maintain them as a nod to the past to offer patrons the chance to enjoy music the old-fashioned way.

by Geno Thackara

He’d already been the bohemian punk, the starman, the genderbending icon, the schizophrenic, and the post-apocalyptic pirate - and all in less than seven years. That happens when you’re willing to chase every musical dream with equal gusto, no matter how crazy. There’d also been some flops, but David Bowie didn’t set the world on fire by playing it safe. Being a chameleon means that if one thing doesn’t take off, the next could catch on in a whole different way.

From his humble start as plain David Jones from south London, it had been one endless series of ch-ch-ch-ch-changes (yes, that’s officially the proper way to say it out loud, if you were wondering). Alongside the wild musical turns came one larger-than-life stage persona after another. Bowie later mused that he couldn’t work any other way. “When I discover someone new, I tend to become that person. ... It comes from having an addictive personality. Transform into the thing you admire, then you move on to something else.”

At the same time, you can’t keep getting bigger forever. Where does one go after exploring both outer space and the glammiest of glam rock? By 1974, Bowie was brashly saying that rock-and-roll was dead - and that was before even finishing the tour for Diamond Dogs, his loudest and grittiest slice of rock yet. His muse was drifting toward the move-your-feet warmth of funk and Philadelphia soul instead, so it was time to come down to earth - specifically, to Sigma

Sound Studios on 12th Street.

Even if it wasn’t a proper Philadelphia International Records session (the MSFB house band being booked at the time), the spirit of Gamble and Huff was everywhere.

“Young Americans” hits you with the essence of the new Bowie from the first moments. There’s a fun rhythmic kickoff - the 63rd most iconic drum fill in music history, according to School of Rock’s Paul Green - dashed off under a jaunty cascade of piano keys. There’s a bright saxophone wailing like it’s happy hour on Friday night. There’s a charming line of singers crooning “whoo-oo-OOOHs” for a little extra hook. Yet, for all the catchiness and soul, Bowie had to do it his own way. The verses and choruses are mixed up in an odd stream-of-consciousness sequence, much like the lyrics, as he gets increasingly rambly. The words bounce from domestic scenes to social imagery to then-current events with the scattershot style of a Beat poet. In between, they leave space for a shot of dreamy psychedelic guitar and that classic high-pitched “break down and cryyyyyyy” line to shoot it through with some real heart. It made a colorful and dizzying hodgepodge that could have hardly been more, well, American. If the singer later had some mixed feel ings about this album, it nonethe less lasted 50 years with barely a scratch. Being so in-the-moment means that however distant that moment becomes, it’s still easy to feel that essence that was cap tured, indelibly shaped by the time and (especially) the place.

MUSIC

45 s Philly Young Americans

David Bowie heads to Philly’s Sigma Sound Studios to Cut this Classic

These Ain’t No Fairytales

The George Martorano Stories

George Martorano is a name that resonates with resilience and transformation. His journey from a 32-year prison sentence to becoming an empowering figure is nothing short of extraordinary. In this exclusive interview, George shares the story behind his latest project, These Ain’t No Fairytales: The George Martorano Stories. George Martorano’s

story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, there is hope and the possibility of a new beginning. His journey from incarceration to filmmaking is an inspiration to many.

George Martorano Hi, everybody. I’m George Martorano. I’d like to share a true story about how this movie evolved. After being released from prison in 2015, I faced the challenges of probation. It’s a tough period where you need permission for almost everything. During this time, I connected with Maria

Merlino, the executive producer of These Ain’t No Fairytales. We initially communicated over the phone, and I shared my story with her. She has been a great friend since my release. When you spend 32 years in prison, you lose many friends and loved ones. Upon release, you often feel directionless, much like Eddie Murphy’s character in Trading Places. I finally got off probation and moved back to Philadelphia. After meeting Maria in person, we quickly developed a strong friendship. She was instrumental in pushing the idea

interview courtesy of Maria Merlino

Despite everything, I survived and thrived. Today, at 74, I’m involved in the entertainment and cannabis industries, creating jobs, and helping people.

of making a movie. She was relentless, always saying, “We gotta do something, Georgie!”

We shot the film at a restaurant and nightclub in Center City called Top Tomato. The director, Rob Marish, and his professional Keystone Film crew did an amazing job. The decision to shoot in black and white wasn’t mine, but it turned out to be a powerful choice that resonated with audiences across the country.

Not only that, but Maria is a talented singer, and she contributed incredible music that perfectly complemented the stories. Maybe it was years in the making, reflecting the many years of my life experiences.

Growing up in the mob, with my father (Raymond “Long John” Martorano) as a gangster, and my Godfather, Angelo Bruno, running the city for over 20 years, shaped my early life. I was involved in the marijuana trade, which led to my 32-year prison sentence as a nonviolent first offender.

My indictment was a “target indictment,” one of the worst to get. I was the 4th and last one to get this indictment. The U.S. was under pressure from foreign governments to stop this intrusive indictment. They wanted me to become an informant. They wanted me to rat out my father, friends, squirrels in the trees, but I refused. This led to five years in solitary confinement and many more years in lockdown. To cope, I became a prolific writer and teacher, authoring over 31 works, including books, movie

scripts, stage plays, and poems. I even taught poetry, driven by the heartbreak of losing my son in a motorcycle accident while I was incarcerated.

The movie captures many of these prison stories, highlighting the violence and darkness I endured. Despite everything, I survived and thrived. Today, at 74, I’m involved in the entertainment and cannabis industries, creating jobs, and helping people. My company, Growfather, is a testament to this new chapter of my life.

In prison, I developed educational programs that are still in use today, such as reentry programs to help inmates adjust to society. I’m proud of these achievements, even though my name isn’t on any plaques. My focus was always on helping others.

Looking ahead, I hope to return to prisons as a motivational speaker, especially in maximumsecurity facilities where guidance is most needed. The federal prison system houses about 300,000 inmates;150,000 of them are in gangs. These individuals need support to avoid wasting their lives.

These Ain’t No Fairytales is a film that reflects my journey. Executive Producer Maria Merlino, aptly named it. When you watch it, you’ll understand why these ain’t no fairytales! It’s a story of survival, resilience, and the power of transformation. Please watch and share the film and learn from the experiences it portrays. PRH

Stephen Candeloro Owner

PRH

Italian Market born and raised Vince Minniti decided it would make the perfect setting for his first film project. Filmed in November, this short drama features main character “Sammy,” a butcher played by famed local actor Freddie Ganno, who struggles to recalibrate his moral compass. He gets mixed up with local gangsters and finds out what honor truly means. The film, shot on location in the Italian Market, The Twin Smoke Shoppe and Esposito Porchetta, is stacked with local actors and personalities.

“It was important to me to begin my filmmaking career in the place that is responsible for my own formation,” Minniti

reflects. “One of my favorite places is the Italian Market, not only because of my own personal memories, but the generations of sacrifices it represents. It has a spirit that lives. I believe Sly Stallone himself shared that feeling when he ran down it. I’m South Philly proud and look forward to making more projects here.” Washington Avenue is set to premier in Spring 2025 with local theater viewings and potential streaming distribution. You can check it out on its Facebook page with the same name and follow Vince on his Instagram page, Vinny from South Philly.

Inquiries for Vince Minniti: VinnyfromSP@gmail.com

Lookie What’s Happened to Me

Philly

by Lou Pinto

It was mid-July when I received a phone call from Giovanna and Viviann. They nominated me for the Award of Excellence from the South Philadelphia High School Alumni Association. The Award of Excellence honors former graduates of Southern High for their accomplishments after leaving high school. I was honored and humbled to be nominated – and win, along

with three other amazing alumniGeorge Anderson, Stephen Michielli, and Placido Michael Moffa. I never gave much thought to what I have done these past 50 years or so since I graduated. When I got up every morning, I didn’t think or say to myself that I’m going to do this today or this week because if I do, there’s a possibility I could win the Award of Excellence. They say, “Life is what happens when you’re making other plans.” I was asked to write a threeto-four-minute speech, and to please keep it at the time allowed. Giovanna also asked that I write a bio about what I’ve been up to since graduating. It’s funny. You don’t realize what you’ve done until you put it down on paper. I did all that, but I

couldn’t help but think of the people I wanted there to share this with.

There were family members and friends I have and always will consider “family.” My family and “family” consisted of four tables. To them and the guests at the event that day, I was proud to deliver my speech.

Legacy. What is the definition of it? A legacy may be of one’s faith, ethics, and core values…

My legacy is the sum of the personal values, accomplishments, and actions that resonate with the people that I have surrounded myself with. My family and friends that I have the honor to call family. It’s how we make a difference in this world, whether it’s by building a mom-and-pop business, a Fortune 500 company or just simply by putting a smile on a person’s face.

Your future is what

you make of it.

Your legacy isn’t something in the future, it’s something being made and shaped right now with every choice you make and every person you encounter. That legacy we build is the character we become.

And we achieve that character and create who we are by doing the right thing even if it is hard, when not a single person is looking.

You are looking at a blessed man. There are people that are here physically and here spiritually that have made me the man I am today.

A quote from Jim Valvano who said:

“To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is to laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. And number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy. But think about it. If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that’s a full day. That’s a heck of a day. You do those seven days a week, you’re

going to have something special.” I want to Thank everyone in this room for this prestigious award that I’m receiving today. I want to thank Giovanna and Viviann for nominating me, the entire executive alumni board, my friends who I consider family and of course, my kids and my grandkids.

I also want to mention three great persons who are no longer with us who would’ve been here, my mom, Dad and my brother John. Remember, everyone here is a part of my legacy whether you went to South Philly High or not. You’re here because in some way, you’re attached to someone that did attend this great school. And in ending, I want to leave everyone with this Louieism: Now, some of you will think you’ll need a pen or pencil, but you won’t need either if you just follow my directions. Take 260-60+85x2-270+50. Now everyone, close your eyes really tight. Are everyone’s eyes closed? Now, tell the truth, isn’t it dark? Thank you and God Bless. PRH

It’s not always Sunny in Philadelphia

by Debbie Russino

If I’m being honest, my heart wasn’t in it when I began writing this story. It’s hard to stay positive when so many bad things are happening all around you. However, it will not keep me from writing in a positive way about the good, law-abiding citizens who live here. With all the negativity and darkness that has plagued our fair city, I was searching for a small beacon of light

to help me find the words. The light I was searching for came one Saturday night at Saint Monica Church. Father Kenneth Cavara said the Mass and his homily was truly amazing. I had a

challenging week. I was emotionally and physically drained. Father always shares a great message, but that night in his sermon, I felt like he was speaking to me personally. He talked about how we are all

suffering and although it may seem hopeless, we have to hold onto our faith and God will make a way for us. His sermon was so powerful, everyone applauded at the end. That is when I realized I wasn’t alone. We all seemed to be sinking into a sea of despair and these words of wisdom and faith became our lifeboat. That was the moment I decided to finish my story and pay it forward. I finally found my words and the courage to share them. I am dedicating this story to Father Cavara and all the kind souls who made a choice to keep their warm heart, when the world became a cold and uncaring place.

There are so many beautiful, nostalgic, and historic places in Philadelphia. Most of our history lives in Old City. When I’m there, I feel as though I’ve traveled back in time. The cobblestone streets and original buildings are stunning. But our greatest feature is our small businesses, also known as mom-and-pop shops. Having been raised in one, I understand the importance they bring to a neighborhood. I went to the Blue Sapphire Event this year and saw first-hand that when small business owners come together, everyone wins. RowHome Magazine continues to show there is a sunnier side to Philadelphia, the part you will never see on the news. There are problems everywhere, and when someone is unhappy with their life and tells me they want to move, I say, “Remember, you will be taking yourself with you.” Happiness isn’t a place, it’s a choice and state of mind. When the Phillies made it to the World Series in 2022, everyone was cheering for them and our city came alive, once again. Broad Street was flooded with massive crowds of people from all over. And

just like that, we weren’t a city to be feared, but one to be celebrated! It isn’t always sunny in Philadelphia, but on these particular days, it was. People come here to attend games, concerts, restaurants, festivals, and parades. When you change your mindset, your perspective changes. There is still a lot of good to be found, it just depends on which direction you choose to look. It’s not where you live, it’s what lives inside of you that matters. I am blessed to be a neighbor and member of St. Monica Parish, with our beloved Pastor, Father Joseph Kelley. This has been my neighborhood for many years. I am close enough to hear the church bells ring throughout the day. It is a reminder; God is never far away.

This is one of the many reasons I will not give up on the city I love. No matter how bad things get, there are still beautiful people in the world and many of them are right in my own backyard.

Thank you to everyone who encourages and supports me. And a special thank you to Father Cavara, who inspired a writer to finish a story when she was lost and couldn’t find her words. Father left Saint Monica Parish in June and is now the Pastor at Saint John the Baptist Church in Manayunk. We gave him a well-deserved farewell. It was very impressive to see the outpouring of love given to Father that night. This event was a testimony to him for all he has given in his three years with us. It also demonstrates we are a community that takes care of its own. We have a long history with this city and like any relationship, we accept the good with the bad. Home is where the heart is and where our memories live. No matter what life holds for me in the future, South Philly will always be the only place I will ever call home. PRH

AlUncle

Iby Charlie Sacchetti

f you are fortunate in life, you may come upon a person with whom you just click. For me, one such person was Alphonse Nocito, my wife’s uncle. Al was the husband of Aunt Jeannie, who was the sister of my mother-in-law. I must admit, when I first heard of Uncle Al, I was intrigued. While dating my wife, I heard many stories about how intimidating he was, being a

big, tough-looking guy that no one would dare mess with.

Indeed, years later, he shared a story with me about an overzealous local politician who had the bad judgment to try to impose his will on Uncle Al. After this stranger knocked on the door, Al answered. The intruder aggressively tried to shove fliers in Al’s face through the half-open door. When Al said he wasn’t interested, the guy ignored him, kept talking, and went so far as to put his foot in the doorway to

prevent its closing. Protecting his home from this “breakingand-entering” threat, Al popped him in the jaw with a short right. After a brief nap on the lawn, the politician wisely decided he might have better luck at the next house. Although Uncle Al was a highly intelligent graduate of LaSalle College with a successful career in the New Jersey State Finance Department, stories like that one always overshadowed those highlighting his softer side. So, it was with great interest and anticipation that I looked forward to my first encounter with

Al, which took place at his house over the Christmas holidays of 1973. Luann and I had been dating for about seven months and we accompanied her parents for a visit. My girl took great pains to warn me about what to expect when I met Uncle Al. She lovingly explained that much of the family was intimidated by him because he was the epitome of the tough, oldfashioned Italian patriarch. She wanted to make sure I wouldn’t be too nervous when Al and I finally met. When she made the longawaited introduction, the surprised look on her face showed it hadn’t gone exactly as she’d planned. When we were alone with Al, I shook his hand with a smile on my face, looked him in the eye, and said, “You don’t look that tough to me. I could probably kick your butt right now!” Admittedly, this

was a calculated risk. Stunned, Uncle Al looked at me, furrowed his brow, and bellowed a hearty laugh as he nearly smothered me with an affectionate bear hug. That was it. We were buddies for life.

As I got to know him, I learned of his love for sports, U.S. history, and, of course, his family. And what a family it was! Uncle Al and Aunt Jeannie increased the population of Delran, NJ, by 11. They brought six girls and five boys into the world, all of whom have grown into outstanding citizens, which speaks volumes of Jeannie’s nurturing and Al’s strong, disciplined leadership. A Korean War vet, Al was also a top-flight woodworker. He had a fully equipped basement that allowed him to craft many different pieces that furnished his home. The one I remember most was the 10-foot oak dinner table and matching benches, accommodating a typical dinner crowd of 15 to 20 people.

Some of my favorite times with Uncle Al happened after a “bread run.” For many years, one of my customers was an outstanding Italian bakery. Whitey, the owner, would not let me leave the bakery without a gift of two or three bags of rolls. Later in the evening, I always brought most of them to Al and Jeannie. Al was

usually napping in his recliner. I would wake him, and then we would go off to the kitchen to enjoy fresh bread and butter washed down with Aunt Jeannie’s freshly brewed coffee. The laughs and love would fill the room. Al retired in 1993. To supplement his pension, he started his own woodworking business. For years, he had dealt with heart problems. Unfortunately, on September 1, 1994, after 39 years of marriage and one year of retirement, Al passed away. The next day, a letter arrived inviting him to sell his beautiful pieces at a prestigious marketplace in New England. One year later, Aunt Jeannie joined her beloved when she also went home to the Lord.

We all hope to leave a legacy. Uncle Al sure did. In addition to his wonderful children and grandchildren, he left behind a life story that inspires his family and friends to come together and lovingly reminisce.

For me, he provided some great “guy time.” I think it’s called “male bonding” now. Suffice it to say that sitting at the table with Uncle Al, talking baseball while sharing buttered rolls and Aunt Jeannie’s hot coffee, was a great way to spend an evening.

Simple pleasures are often the most treasured. PRH

Sacchetti is the author of three books: It’s All Good: Times and Events I’d Never Want to Change; Knowing He’s There: True Stories of God’s Subtle Yet Unmistakable Touch; and his newest, Savoring the Moments: True Stories of Happiness, Sadness and Everything in Between Contact him at worthwhilewords21@gmail.com.

PRH20TH ANNIVERSARY

Architectural Services

Landmark

Architectural Design 1325 Snyder Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148

215.755.9050

www.Landmarkaia.com

Automotive Services

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

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

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

Life & Wellness Coach

Teri Lombardo

tel: (215) 869-0319 talfit08@gmail.com

SPST - South Philly

Sports Training

Here for your baseball, softball, golf simulator (NEW) and fitness training & development needs! 2514 Morris Street Philadelphia, PA 19145

215.767.8103

www.southphillysportstraining.com

Home Improvement

Novello Contracting

267.688.4879

Posh Painting by Rita LLC

Rita Coccia Trombetta 856.986.0252 | infinity4376@yahoo.com

Specializing in interior and exterior painting

FBI Pest Control

We rid your pests so you can rest info@fbipestcontrol.com | 215.218.1804

Frank Fioravanti, route supervisor 2509 S. Broad St. Suite 202 Philadelphia, PA 19148 www.termitecontrolphiladelphia.com

Insurance Services

Troast-Singley & Miller

Insurance Agency, LLC

John Miller

2700 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19145

215.339.0333 www.troast-singleyagency.com

Lou Tumolo

Medicare Coach & Consulting

Helping you to navigate your Medicare options. Loutumoloconsulting@gmail.com Mobile: 609.923.2359

or info@gohomephilly.com

Jewelers

Olivieri Jewelers

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

Legal Services

Perry deMarco, Jr. Esq. 1500 Market St. Suite 4100 Philadelphia, PA 19102

215.563.6100

PerrydeMarcoJr@gmail.com

Professional Organizations

South Philadelphia Business Assn.

Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia | Join today!, Contact: Michelle Nolfi / Secretary 267.270.9366 | spbaorg@gmail.com www.southphiladelphiabusinessassociation.com

Real Estate

Fetterman Design Group, LLC

211 East Palmer Ave Collingswood, NJ 08108 856.264.6816 www.fettermandesigngroup.com

Restaurants

Anthony’s Italian Coffee House 903 & 905 S. 9th St. Phila., PA 19147 | 215.627.2586 anthony@italiancoffeehouse.com www.anthonysonline.com

Security Services

Allied Universal Security Services

Ron Rabena 161 Washington Street:, Suite 600 Conshohocken, Pa 19428

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

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

Specialty Foods & Catering

Center City Pretzel Co. 816 Washington Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19147 215.463.5664

A Philly legacy 41 years in the making! One family, one location, one damn good pretzel!

Giovanni’s Italian Catering

Located in the heart of South Philadelphia 267.439.0779

giovanniitaliancatering@gmail.com www.giovannisitaliancatering.com

Swan Caterers

Now serving at 2 locations 2015 S. Water St. Philadelphia, PA 19148

215.389.8888

1500-02-04 Shunk St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 215.389.2045 www.swanwaterfallcaterers.com

Travel Services

At Escapes

Your boutique travel company Gina Casella/Founder & President | 917.514.5566

info@atescapes.com | www.atescapes.com facebook.com/AdrianaTrigianiTours phlathletics.com

Closet Time to Clean out Your

PRESSED PRESSED

By Dorette Rota Jackson

by DORETTE ROTA JACKSON

Idon’t care how big your kitchen is, there’s never enough room for pots, paper towels, cases of water or Hefty bags.

They don’t fit into the cabinets. They might fit if there weren’t so many glasses, mugs, vases, tumblers, and mules taking up all the space. Especially after the holidays. That’s when Dawn melts down. She says she feels like the house is eating her alive.

I hate mail. Letters come for every person in the house EVERY day, she starts. Then they send you junk mail and fake checks that look like tax reimbursements.

That’s a pile of mail apiece, six days a week, that nobody opens. And God forbid you move somebody’s pile!

Dawn is taking a stand. She told me she tossed the mugs. Condensed all the herbal teas into one container. Moved the baking supplies to the top shelf then moved all the spices to the lower right shelf. I’m right-handed. Now my spices are where I can reach them. This is the only house where you look for oregano and get a concussion from the can of beets that falls on your head. I’m not living like this anymore. And you see these containers? No lids, no need.

Wondering how I know all this? Because she cleaned while I was on

the phone with her. No matter how many times I hung up, she called back. Every call starts the same.

What are you doing?

Working.

She ignores me.

Okay. Well, I got through those cabinets. Now I’m going to tackle this ridiculous excuse for storage.

Which one? I ask.

Next to the sink. The olive oil / toolbox / colander / anything that doesn’t fit into the other cabinets, cabinet. It’s so deep, I can crawl across the yard into the neighbor’s kitchen. Who built this? How is this an efficient use of space?

Her earbuds magnify every banging, clanking, scraping sound as I’m forced to stay on the phone while she clears the clutter. ‘What’s all the noise?’ dare I ask.

I’m clearing all the negativity for the new year. Either we shed it, or we drag all this around for the next 12 months.

She tells me she’s looking for a roomy spot to store the pots & pans jammed into her oven.

What’s the sense of having an oven if you have to unload a dozen pots before you use it? That’s why people microwave things. Or blow the fuses all day long with their toaster ovens. If it doesn’t fit in my toaster

oven, I’m not making it... And how many bags do you plan on saving?

That question is for me.

We have bags inside of bags. Plastic bags. Shopping bags. Lunch bags. I’m suffocating with all these bags. You’re a bag hoarder. Four hours and five phone calls later, she’s feeling pretty good about the purge. Except for the corn.

I refuse to lay on the floor to look for corn. That is why I don’t make vegetables anymore.

She’s talking about the lower level of the china closet. The shelves are stocked with canned goods and cereal – things that don’t fit in the kitchen cabinets but need to be handy should you yen for Green Giant. I need a crane to get me off the floor! My back, my neck, my shoulders! Everything hurts! I’m not laying on the floor anymore to look for corn. I’m getting a pantry. Civilized. I can stand up straight and make proper selections. Everything will be off my floors! I’m ordering it now. So, there you have it. Tips to jumpstart the new year from Dawn. Now is the perfect time to clean out your closets. Get the pots out of the oven. Toss the takeout containers and get off the floor! If you’re looking for corn, check the new pantry! Assembly required. PRH