PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

FREE | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

the

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DraconiC DUo

Our editor explains why these two should be sent back to the Batty Cave Need a last-minute gift? PW has great ideas for everyone on your list. | Page 10

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CRIME BEAT

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LOVE COPS? HATE COPS? READ WAMBAUGH

A

25-year-old police officer who that he didn’t know any police officers personhas been serving on Philadel- ally and he’d never had an encounter, good or phia’s mean streets during this bad, with a cop. His enmity was based on what past year’s protests, rioting and he’d heard, read, or seen on TV and movies. looting, told me that the city was For a bit of balance and to understand the going to hell. cops’ lot, I suggested the student read Joseph I told the officer that we’ve Wambaugh. been through this before. I recall I’ve interviewed Joseph Wambaugh several the late 1960s and early 1970s when the coun- times over the years and I once asked him if his goal was to humanize cops. Yes, he replied. try went through a similar tumultuous time.

Cops then, like now, were under fire – figura- He said he wanted to make cops come to life as human beings. tively and literally. There were the “That’s what I mean by humananti-Vietnam War demonstrations ize. I don’t mean clean up their imand urban riots, and we had violent age,” Wambaugh said. groups like the Black Liberation Still a serving LAPD officer when Army, the Symbionese Liberation “The New Centurions” was pubArmy, the Weather Underground, lished, Wambaugh came under fire the Black Panther Party and MOVE. from the LAPD chief who objected These groups and others berated, to his depiction of police officers assailed, and even assassinated poat their worst. The novel also porlice officers. Cops were called “pigs” trayed police officers at their best. and other unflattering epithets.

I reached out recently to Joseph Then, like today, there was a strong, Wambaugh, who is 82 and living vocal anti-cop segment of American in San Diego. He said he has fond society. Then, as now, many of the memories of visiting Philadelphia people expressing vitriolic anti-cop and meeting Philly cops when he sentiments had little, if any, personPAULDAVISONCRIME.COM was here researching “Echoes in al contact with police officers. the Darkness,” his 1987 true crime I recall Thomas Fleming’s 1971 book about the 1979 murder of an Upper MerNew York Times review of Joseph Wamion High School teacher named Susan Reinert. baugh’s debut novel, which began, “Do you A 1987 TV movie was based on the book. like cops? Read ‘The New Centurions.’ Do you I asked him what he thought of the anti-cop hate cops? Read ‘The New Centurions.’” sentiment here in Philadelphia, as well as That is still good advice today. across the country.

For a bit of historical perspective, I suggest“As to the current state of negative attied that the young officer read Joseph Wamtudes toward police, I think I would simply baugh, the former Los Angeles Police Departrevert to a bit of basic math,” Wambaugh rement detective sergeant turned best-selling novelist and true crime author. I suggested he plied.

“There are approximately 700,000 cops in start with “The New Centurions” for Wamthe U.S. serving about 18,000 police departbaugh’s fictional depiction of the 1965 Watts ments. The police engage in about 55 milriots in Los Angeles. lion citizen contacts every year. The terrible I also had a conversation with a 22-year-old George Floyd killing triggered other highly Temple University student who expressed a hatred of Philly cops. He admitted reluctantly publicized accusations alleging unlawful

PAUL DAVIS

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

H deadly force. Let’s assume that the accusations continue to grow until there are as many as, let’s say, 55 in the U.S. this year.

“And let’s pretend that after investigations are concluded, the complaints are all affirmed – that is not the case, but let’s assume the worst for the sake of argument. Therefore, in a perilous job involving ever-present possibility of violence, the numbers would come to about one allegation of unlawful deadly force per one million citizen contacts.

“The George Floyd incident was horrible to watch, but I wonder what other dangerous profession involving instant life-and-death decisions can claim a better record than one in a million? Perfection will never be possible in a cop’s highly imperfect world.”

Joseph Wambaugh offers a convincing argument.

I like all of Joseph Wambaugh’s books, but in my view, “The Onion Field” is his best book.

The 1973 book tells the tragic true story of the

murder of an LAPD officer in an onion field, his surviving partner who suffered psychologically, and the arrest and trial of the two petty criminals who kidnapped and murdered the officer. I believe “The Choirboys,” his brilliant dark comedy about cops, is his best novel.

All of his books offer entertainment, insight, drama and abundant humor. And no writer describes the cop world’s twin masks of comedy and tragedy as well as Joseph Wambaugh.

So if you’re looking for a gift for someone who hates cops, loves cops or simply loves a good book during these tumultuous times, I recommend Joseph Wambaugh’s classic cop novels and true crime books.

Paul Davis’ Crime Beat column appears here each week. He is a Philadelphia writer who has written extensively about organized crime, cybercrime, street crime, white-collar crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism.

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

FROM THE EDITOR

DON’T GO IT ALONE ANOTHER LOCKDOWN IS TOUGH,

BUT PW HAS YOUR BACK.

Guv Wolf: Savior or menace?

“H

oly overboard econo- Pennsylvania and New Jersey. While he has managed to keep his restaurants open, he said my-crushing edicts!”

No shit, Robin. This is get- he’s been forced to reduce his staff from 400 to ting way out of control. Wor- 70 since the start of the pandemic.

“When you look at the contact tracing… ry, fear and panic already permeate many people’s dai- It actually vindicates restaurants and that’s what’s so disappointing about what our goverly lives.

When Gov. Tom Wolf put nor is doing,” he told me.

“Everything that restaurants are doing is a coronavirus-promoted ban on indoor dining, helping prevent the spread and I think we’re private gatherings, gyms and other activities, being victimized.” you wonder if he’d gone as crazy Sandy Stevens, owner of Anytime as The Joker. Either that, or he’s as Fitness, a gym in Boothwyn, had to cold as Mr. Freeze. close her doors last Saturday. She Some say Wolf is simply followsaid that running the gym was her ing in step with what other states only source of income. with higher COVID cases are doing, “For so many of our members, this like New York. But Gov. Andrew is their sanity – their mental break, Cuomo presented a report that gave how they keep themselves from being a breakdown of how the virus was depressed, being alone,” she said. spreading throughout the Empire “This [lockdown] is definitely doState. When we asked the Commoning more harm than good.” wealth for similar case-spread data, Wolf and Kenney’s latest round it came up empty-handed. of sanctions on our freedoms will It’s as if our elected officials – and surely result in another wave of even many in the private sector who business failures and the loss of jobs so strongly defended civil liberties @ RUFFTUFFDH that go with it. Both politicians have over the summer – have now beexpressed concern over the impacts come the very people advocating their decisions will have on working people, against them.

What Philadelphians should consider is the but their actions prove otherwise.

But then again, isn’t it just like these guys to broader impact these restrictions are having on their livelihoods. Major lockdowns like be telling us one thing while doing another?

“We all must do one simple thing to stop the these will ultimately have long-lasting and untold ramifications on our economy, our physi- spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask,” Wolf says – cal and mental health and our overall well-be- who then tests positive for the virus.

And the mayor’s message: “We need to stay ing as a society. The ripple effect of forcibly indoors as much as we can,” and then went all shutting everything down could last decades, and what’s super sad is that for many busi- the way to Maryland to eat inside comfortably.

Come to think about it, they kind of remind nesses, the damage is already done. me of another comic book character: TwoDave Magrogran is founder and CEO of Harvest Seasonal Grill, which has locations in Face.

JENNY DEHUFF

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

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STATE OF OUR CITY

OH’S WOES

A bill introduced in City Council last week would institute a duration limit of no more than 60 days on the mayor’s COVID-19 restrictions and require approval from Council for an extension beyond that. Offered up by Councilman David Oh, it would also require the mayor to be more inclusive of Council when implementing public health orders in the future.

Although the resolution failed by a vote of 11-6, it offered some hope that members of the largely Democratic body wanted their voices heard on matters that directly affect-

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY ed their constituents. Councilwoman Helen Gym, who starkly opposed the bill, said it would “endanger our city and state."

Oh said his legislation was merely trying to establish Council oversight and ensure emergency orders from the administration don’t go unchecked for long periods of time.

“It is irresponsible not to take up a position of participation, which is our responsibility – of checks and balances – whether it is the president of the United States, the governor of any state or the mayor of any municipality,” he said.

STATE

OF OUR

CITY

WHACK STATS? Asked this week if the city had any breakdown of data as to how the coronavirus was spread throughout the community, a spokeswoman for the mayor’s office said the city was not releasing that information because its “contact tracing has been only reaching a small percentage of the total number of cases due to workload.” For the Commonwealth’s part, a spokesperson said that Gov. Wolf pointed to studies conducted by Stanford, Yale and Carnegie Mellon universities, but it’s unclear how old those studies are and if that data was used to implement the more recent round of restrictions.

Welp, here we are. The city is pretty much shut down. And now the state is, too.

So, this New Year’s Eve, people are going to be looking for things to do – even if it’s from their own homes.

We’re calling all restaurants and bars in the area to tell us if they have anything special planned for NYE. Pick-up and delivery options? Special deals, meals and drinks?

Just, please, give us something fun to do this New Year’s Eve. If your fine establishment is planning something great for Dec. 31, we want you to tell us so that we can tell everyone else. Just send an email with all of the info to mail@philadelphiaweekly.com by Dec. 19. Then, in our Dec. 24 edition, we’ll publish a hopefully extensive list of where people can go or what they can do to celebrate a new year finally arriving.

So, don’t delay and don’t be shy. People are really ready to kick 2020 to the curb, and they want to do it in style. Send us your NYE specials so that everyone knows where to go to have fun, eat great food and imbibe, even if it’s from a six-foot distance.

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Philadelphiaweekly.com @phillyweekly DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Dan McDonough, Jr. Chairman & Publisher Jenny DeHuff Editor in Chief

New Year’s Grieve?

John Montesano Art Director

Alan Bauer Managing Editor

Contributors: A.D. Amorosi, Tom Beck, Paul Davis Resolve Philadelphia, Timaree Schmit, Ryan K. Smith, Kerith Gabriel, Eugene Zenyatta. Intern: Zachary Bard.

To contact the news department: mail@philadelphiaweekly.com.

Ed Lynes Chief Revenue Officer Stephanie Hawkins Michael Chambers Controller Director of Circulation Signature Supporters: Ted Kazantzis

To purchase advertising in Philadelphia Weekly, contact Sales at 215-543-3743, ext. 104, or sales@philadelphiaweekly.com.

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VOICES OF OUR CITY

REMEMBERING WALTER WILLIAMS, PHILADELPHIA HERO OF FREEDOM

On the night of December 1st, renowned economist and public intellectual Walter E. Williams taught a microeconomics class at George Mason University’s Arlington campus. It would be the last class of his long and prolific life. The libertarian-conservative luminary was found dead in his car a few hours after the class ended. He was 84 years old.

Walter Williams (1936-2020) grew up in both West and North Philadelphia, and always in the poor areas of the city, roots he never forgot as he saw his career rise. His father left home when he was 3, leaving Williams and his sister in the hands of their mother. After graduating from Benjamin Franklin High School, he drove a taxi for work. Later, in the late 1950s, he served as a private in the United States Army and “waged a one man battle against Jim Crow from inside the army.” He was so forceful in challenging the status quo that a higher-up filed a court-martial against him, and Williams was transferred to Korea. That spirit of fighting for truth in the face of enormous backlash would become a theme throughout Williams’ academic career.

Eventually, Williams turned to academics, earning a PhD in economics from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1972. In his early years as an economist, he was already a contrarian: “I was more than anything a radical…I was more sympathetic to Malcolm X than Martin Luther King because Malcolm X was…willing to confront discrimination in ways that I thought it should be confronted…But really, I just wanted to be left alone.”

Despite his refusal to blindly accept popular and costless positions, he remained open-minded during his nascent stage as a young economist. “I thought some laws, like minimum-wage laws, helped poor people and poor black people and protected workers from exploitation…until I was pressed by professors to look at the evidence.”

Williams returned to Philadelphia in 1973 after earning his doctorate, serving as an economics professor at Temple University for the remainder of the decade. It was during this period that he concluded that government intervention is harmful to the very people that the interventions are meant to help. Williams is especially known for his criticism of minimum wage and affirmative action laws.

In 1982, Williams published his most famous book, “The State Against Blacks,” in which he explained how government regulations are a greater impediment to the economic mobility of black Americans than

racial prejudice against them. His thesis has outraged many, but opened the eyes of others. Eric July, a black libertarian musician, attributes much of his libertarian worldview to Dr. Williams. “He explained what economics is…Walter Williams talks about how black communities struggle from an economic standpoint…South Africa used the minimum wage to price blacks out of the market.”

Williams pulled no punches when it came to the welfare state, either. “Walter Williams and Thomas Sowell have done a great job of highlighting that what the welfare state does is incentivize people to fail,” July said. “If you get above that line, we take everything away from you...Communities have no incentives to build their own solutions – market solutions – because the state is being mommy and daddy.”

Dr. Williams also wrote favorably about freedom of association, the right to bear arms, the right for states to secede from the union, and the danger of the Federal Reserve.

His views on these and other subjects were given the light of day in his syndicated column, “A Minority View,” which he began in 1980. He was prolific both as an academic and as a communicator of ideas: He had written hundreds of articles, book reviews, and commentaries for academic journals such as “American Economic Review” as well as magazines for public consumption, such as “Reason Magazine,” “The Wall Street Journal,” and “The American Spectator.” After his initial book in 1982, Williams wrote nine others, as well as the content for a PBS documentary called “Good Intentions.” He served as a guest host for Rush Limbaugh’s radio show from time to time.

Since 1973, Williams lived only miles away from his hometown of Philadelphia, settling down in Devon, Pa. There, he and his wife, Connie, raised their daughter, Devyn. Williams is survived by Devyn and one grandson.

Walter Williams understood what is perhaps the fundamental misunderstanding of those who think that the government can solve problems. In his 2015 book, “American Contempt for Liberty,” he wrote that “do-gooders fail to realize that most good is not done in the name of good but done in the name of self-interest.”

Dr. Williams has certainly done more for freedom than most.

His ideas will continue to provoke, persuade, and ignite the flames of liberty for generations to come. Cheers to a libertarian force of nature who has gone to rest.

Logan Chipkin is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and a contributor to Broad + Liberty. @ChipkinLogan. This article was originally published at Broad + Liberty. Follow them on Twitter @BroadAndLiberty.

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

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FEATURED

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(LITERALLY) FAKE NEWS 1812 Productions showcases all the news that isn’t

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This 2019 ‘This is the Week That Is’ features, from left, Justin Jain, Pax Ressler, Brett Ashley Robinson (as Tina Turner), Sean Close and Tanaquil Marquez.

Image | Mark Garvin.

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

n any normal year, the glamorous, but cramped Philly’s long-running 108-year-old building – all 290 1812 Productions – famed seats. It would thrill its all-age for being the only pro- audiences with satirical roufessional theater compa- tines, new (nightly news stories, ripped from the headlines, and ny in the U.S. dedicated made into epic mini-musicals solely to comedy – would based on current hits), start its annual run of or tried-and-true char“This is the Week That acters (Childs’ stoop-sitIs” on the first days of

BY A.D. ting, cig-smoking, South December and end by the AMOROSI Philly-accented maven, second week of January.

Patsy).

The live, six-week look Along with satirical, at the ever-shifting news cycle and the current cultural self-penned original musicals zeitgeist, local and national, in (arranged and composed by cast a sketch comedy revue show- member Pax Ressler) and parcase setting – something 1812’s ody, copycat musical numbers co-founding Producing Artistic (1812 loves ABBA songs), a portion of the 1812 troupe’s board Director Jennifer Childs calls “a cross between ‘The Carol time would be dedicated to a stage-bound news anchor, Sean Burnett Show’ and ‘The Daily Show’” – would take place at Close, “throwing” to “reporters” Delancey Street’s Plays & Play- such as Dave Jadico wearing a trench coat, making his way ers Theatre.

Here, onstage and on a night- through the audience, and speakly basis, 1812 would sell out ing in a dramatic baritone comi-

FEATURED

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY cally at odds with his scripted or non-scripted jibes. If the audience is lucky, snow will fall, and Jadico – who must leave the building to get through to its front door, and down the aisles – will be covered in wet, white fluff.

Childs’ pink sweat suit-wearing “Patsy” will come out for a “youse,” “dose” and “wahder” filled exit reverie. The cast will sing and dance a comic refrain similar to the evening’s grand musical introduction, and “The Week That Is,” will be the night that was.

That’s a normal year. 2020 has hardly been a normal year.

Using that irregularity as its guide, 1812 in 2020 has had to shift from being live, on-stage sketch and improvisation into something less tactile, and move into the virtual realm. With that virtual-ity – and its accompanying screens, monitors and online settings guided by director Justin Jain and co-head writer/ stage manager Thomas E. Shotkin from home – the remote-from-wherever “This Rob Tucker, Tanaquil Marquez, Jennifer Childs, Is The Week That Is” has Dave Jadico and Justin Jain starred in this 1812 actually become, somewhat, Productions 2019 ‘This is the Week That Is.’ closer to a real news broadImage | Mark Garvin cast.

While maintaining its comic theatricality, the team’s feel for live and meets ‘The Daily Show,’ but this year, it’s all recorded material – with no one performing on TikTok,” said Childs about coming to grips on stage at Plays & Players, and no one perwith their production’s mix of live streamed theater and news, and additional pre-recorded forming together in any sort of physical unit bits of humoresque.

– has the packed-tight, forward thrust of “Ac“We’re learning the new rules of this medition News” – theme music, and all.

“This Is The Week That Is,” or “TW20” as um, day-by-day.”

Assistant Director Briana Gause, the filmit’s dubbed, is now a makeshift news show maker of the bunch, added that this year’s with an anchor cutting to a team of safely-distanced cameras, reporters and skits around “TW20,” is a “political, hybrid digital showthe city. Just as a real news team would do – a case of humanity and humor.”

To get to where 1812 is “This Week,” you real fake news team pulling off real fake news. have to get where 1812 was during “The Week The realest of fake news, only much funnier That Was’” second week, March 2020. and still audience interactive, “TW20” is guid“The first week of March, we were doing a ed by Childs & Co.’s well-honed sense of what special show, ‘Patsy Bingo,’ and even had the makes delicious political satire and smartly, opportunity to reference the still-new coronaskillful parody turn for 15 years, as of this 2020 virus,” said Childs. production.

“We didn’t have a joke, but we mentioned it (So prestigious on a national level is the in a light-hearted way, and moved on.” annual “This Is The Week That Is” that the By week two, however, COVID-19 was alAmerican Theatre Wing, the voting body beready less of a laughing matter than it had hind the Tony Awards, commissioned a documentary, “In the Field; Conceiving Satire: The been seven days prior. While preparing 1812’s final show of its 2019/2020 season, a world Making of ‘This Is The Week That Is,’ in 2019.

It was nominated for a Mid-Atlantic Emmy premiere musical, “Tyndale Place,” it became apparent that Philadelphia, like most of the Award for Arts Program/Special.) planet, was going into lockdown.

“We’re still like ‘The Carol Burnett Show’

“We left 1812’s office so quickly that it looked as if an alien abduction had occurred,” said Childs, remembering half-filled cups of water leaving rings on desks and toppled trash cans spilling behind them.

“It was if we had been raptured.”

Tom Shotkin, production stage manager at 1812 for 19 of the company’s 23 years of existence, claimed it was more frightening not knowing what the near future would hold, let alone the far-off future.

“What we did know was that the season was over at that point which was sad, depressing, you name it,” he said.

“Looking ahead, though, I remember thinking that – no – we probably wouldn’t be able to do ‘This is The Week That Is,’ live. But, if there was ever a show that could adapt to being done online, it was that because of its episodic nature and its sketches. I believed that audiences would be very forgiving, having to see three or four boxes on your computer screen, as opposed to live.”

Before they figured out the minutiae of its next season, 1812 was able to stay afloat through 2020, buoyed by PPP loans, without financial panic (“I had plenty of other things

7

to panic about, and still do,” said Childs), or having to lay off employees and company members.

From there, the producing artistic director crafted a 2020/2021 season based – for the most part – on all things virtual with “Set Model Theatre” and “The Way I Walk” coming up on the heels of “This Is The Week that Is.” “Set Model Theatre” is 1812’s way of working with diverse directors and stage designers visions, a series that Childs flippantly refers to as a master’s thesis meets “Cupcake Wars,” with three teams tackling one play. It was kind of like Shakespeare’s “King Lear” with radically different concepts and set models. Such miniature dioramas allow directors and designers to dream big, and the “Set Model Theatre” series, then, is a five-episode, behind-thescenes look at the creative process heightened by 1812’s comedic twists.

“The Way I Walk” will be a virtual, streaming, chatty, four-woman comedy showcase – a collaborative work

by Childs, Melanie Cotton, Bi Jean Ngo and another 1812 member, Tanaquil Márquez – but, with many questions attached to it, such as how digital it must be when it premieres in spring of 2021.

“Could there be live components by that point? Will it be more live than virtual or vice versa? Will things be safer in April? We’re still up in the air in regards to what will be what,” noted Childs.

There is no doubt as to what “This Is The Week That Is,” is, even when there are multiple questions.

“And there are so many questions, daily, about what this is and what will happen,” said Childs. “But isn’t that just like 2020 itself ?”

Starting with the production, Shotkin is stage managing “TW20” far and away from his stage crew and performers – like a news broadcast producer or an air flight traffic controller – but, certainly not alone.

“It’s tricky as Ben [Levan, production manager] is manning the hardware, but I’m calling the shots, literally, while managing the time, the actors, the artistic team and Ben, all from my house. Everything’s over Zoom. Everything is over the phone. Nothing is as it was, filled with interpersonal interaction.”

Justin Jain, directing the episodic “This Is SEE 1812, PAGE 8

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

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This 1812 Productions 2019 parody of ‘Hamilton” features, from left, Dave Jadico (Bernie Sanders), Brett Ashley Robinson (Kamala Harris), Justin Jain (Pete Buttigieg), Sean Close (Elizabeth Warren), Tanaquil Marquez (Tulsi Gabbard), and Pax Ressler (Amy Klobuchar).

Image | Mark Garvin

1812, FROM PAGE 7 The Week That Is” for the first time, also had to learn about film work on the fly, troubleshooting technology, and how to bring theatricality to the screen.

“It’s been a lesson in adaptability and not being precious with letting things go,” said Jain, late on a Saturday night after a lengthy preview performance.

“The most rewarding part of this experience has been the act of collaborating with my fellow beloved artists – THAT is one of the few tenets of theatre-making that transcends any medium and is at the crux of what we do best – connecting with one another, and an audience, in real-time…Being with these people every day has been a lighthouse in these incredible times.”

The tech process with “TW20”’s six actors (plus special guests such as Philly-based essayist R. Eric Mitchell making cameos), various directors and designers on stage going through a show scene-by-scene, and incrementally adding and subtracting lights and sounds, has been altered by the pandemic’s new virtual playbook. What was once stage lights might now be ring lights on actors’ laptops. The intricate network of omnidirectional stage sound and electro-acoustic transducers probably comes down, solely, to the microphones on each performer’s computers.

“These are strange adjustments; so much so

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

that all of my usual paperwork, stage stuff and such, have all flown out the window, in lieu of all this visual and sonic tech stuff,” stated Shotkin, who quickly shouted out Philly theater all-star video and sound designer and Barrymore Award-winner Jorge Cousineau as mastering the divide between the physical and the virtual.

“We cannot be in the same room together, even to film,” said Childs, wound up by the circumstance.

“So, each performer was outfitted with cameras and sound equipment – all storyboarded

by Jorge – with each actor filming themselves at home or outdoors, sending the video to Jorge, and with him putting everyone together so that they look as if that they’re in the same room. It is astonishing and incredible work.”

The new version of the “TW20” segment focusing solely on news and current affairs also finds co-writer and anchor Sean Close acting as any anchor does, throwing to “reporters” at the “scene,” on a more frequent basis. Childs claimed that the effect of going between live, on-the-scene reports and pre-recorded bits and skits will result in something of a ricochet.

“We’re even looking to surprise viewers, interactively, by presenting something that looks pre-recorded, but, instead is live, and asks everyone to join in on the chat,” she said of online suggestions that could determine what comes next during the broadcast.

“There are many real-time opportunities to create even-newer content during the show based on what the audience says or suggests,” said Childs.

While her “Patsy” character may phone Philly celebs during “TW20,” Dave Jadico – a member of both 1812 and ComedySportz’s improvisational crew – has his own series of planned accidents to get through.

“Audience members can even type in the word, ‘Ha,’ if they so choose,” said Shotkin.

“They can give thumbs up or down to a character. That creates a sense of community.”

Far beyond dealing with technology and interactivity, the biggest change to “TW20,” is the combustible daily rigors of the news cycle itself, and how the 1812 team will choose to cover it.

As an equal opportunity skewer-er over its years, this writer has watched the “This Is The Week That Is” writing team take down presidents both Democrat and Republican – from Bush to Obama to Trump – generals and majors, wars and stars, mayors such as Nutter and Kenney, and every sports team in town.

“Gritty, the Phillie Phanatic, the teams and the players; they’re always good for laughs and boos. Sometimes way more boos than laughs,” said Childs.

But, in a year so dour, so horrific and so often fraught with ugly emotion and genuine sadness, how does 1812 handle the topicality of the funny – a year filled with 365 Nine-Elevens – in sketch or fake news reporting fashion?

What is so fucking humorous about the deaths behind Black Lives Matter, the protests, the calls for social justice or the police who want to maintain law and order, but often motivate the public to said destructive refute?

What’s hilarious about the on-going COVID-19 plague, its physical death toll or the mountain of jobs it is killing in its wake?

Is Mayor Kenney funnier than DA Krasner?

Can you poke fun at Police Commissioner Outlaw and not seem racist or sexist? And the battle between Trump and Biden? Sure, there are a million laughs to be found behind a president who loses and refuses to leave, and sends lawyers to the Four Seasons Total Landscaping as opposed to a tony hotel. But what about the incoming president-to-be, Biden, a man once known far and wide for his bungled and botched speeches, and his own wheeling-and-dealing peccadillos?

“One of the reasons that Justin Jain was the person for the job of directing is that he had a real sense of being joyful,” said Childs.

“In terms of recounting the year and reliving all that was wrong, bad and horrific, people are doing that for themselves. We’re not shying away from difficult topics. For me, what the best comedy and the best satire does is transform all that is current events into something joyous.”

Before any rehearsals and before scripts were written or laid out, Childs asked her actors and writers to film their own bits about what was important to them during this messy

year. Diverse as the 1812 cast and crew is – gay, straight, nonbinary, Black, brown, white, male, female – each self-written and filmed clip informed what the whole of “TW20” could and should feel like.

“That made the show more personal with many different perspectives,” said Childs.

“What are the effects and ripples around THAT THING that could be funny?” asked Gause.

“It feels easier to laugh at the circumstances around THE THING.” Childs recalls the old saying: “You can make fun of the smoke, but not of the fire,” before stating that 2020 has been, almost exclusively, a series of eight-alarm blazes.

“It’s been a year of nothing but fire, but we’ve managed to find smoke.”

Co-head writer Shotkin also claimed that, with everything that went on this year, making light of personalities is usually funnier than making fun of incidents or actions.

“There’s been no shortage of humorous personalities this year, always a rich field to mine,” he said.

As an example, Trump is easy to lampoon.

Biden not so much.

“Biden’s been a difficult character to find what his comic persona is during the election cycle,” said Childs, before noting that actor/ anchor Sean Close plays “Biden” for 1812 this year.

“Think back to George W. Bush for a second. Comedians instantly honed in on what his comic persona was. Trump? It’s been easy to find his comic persona too. Biden, though?

Look at ‘Saturday Night Live.’ They’ve gone through like 15 different people to play him.

He’s tricky. Then again, I’m happy to have a boring president right now. I’m ready to be bored.”

Everything is funny in Philadelphia, sure.

But, locally, 1812’s “TW20” has had to use great restraint and finesse in dealing with a troubling season in hell.

“When I look at this year, locally, the first thing that comes to mind are the protests, the tear-gassing on I-676 and Kenney’s reaction,” said Shotkin.

“There’s not really anything funny about any of that. But, what we will do is come at things in a roundabout way.”

Gause reminds us, too, that the nightly “TW20” show, live streaming and recorded, sifts through the “couch cushions” of the news to find the dimes amongst the pennies and the dust bunnies. Plus, it’s crucial to note that “This Is The Week That Is” deals with fresh topics, daily, and that this lousy fucking year is not quite over with.

“Things are still developing in the news as we speak, and I’m curious to see what else bubbles up that can be immediately put into the show. That’s as scary as it is fun.”

For tickets, times and more information about everything 1812 Productions has going on, visit 1812productions.org.

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o f d L n e a t l ters r a G Bookstore Est. 1972

Non-Fiction Bookstore Offering Self Discovery since 1972 You will find incense and incense burners, sage for smudging, oil diffusers, sterling silver and gemstone jewelry, soy and beeswax candles, natural crystals, rocks and minerals (both polished and rough), Himalayan salt lamps, journals, greeting cards, yoga mats, meditation cushions, singing bowls, authentic hand-made dream catchers, prayer beads, drums, wind chimes, mobiles, didgeridoos, flutes, essential oils, perfume, thangkas (Tibetan traveling altars), Tibetan prayer flags, posters, statuary from various spiritual traditions and more!

Facebook.com/Garland-of-Letters-Bookstore 527 S 7th St Philadelphia, PA 19147 - (215)923-5946 - 12noon-8pm DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2020 Tis the season to support these small businesses

E

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GIFT GUIDE

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY It’s not too late to give the perfect holiday gift! All of the small businesses in PW’s gift guide stand ready to help you with all of your holiday needs – even if it’s just a little something to reward yourself for making it through 2020.

Thrive Flower Thrive Flower a high quality CBD company based out of Philadelphia. It works with local Pennsylvania hemp farms to craft effective CBD products and offers every application method of CBD from topical creams, edible gummy bears, sublingual CBD oil tinctures, and smokable CBD hemp flower and vape pens.

“Our most popular products are our CBD oil tinctures, vegan gummy bears, and pain relief salves,” said Thrive Flower’s Jake Wolff.

“We make sure to craft our CBD products to be potent at a fantastic price point because we want our customers to feel the amazing benefits of CBD while getting a bang for their buck.”

Even better, Thrive Flower has a holiday special going on now. You can use the code “phillyweekly20” for 20 percent off on its website thriveflower.com.

Thrive Flower fully launched in March 2019.

There are four co-founders from Philadelphia with extensive cannabis knowledge. They knew about CBD and its incredible benefits well before it became very popular in the United States, and wanted to provide quality CBD products and education to their local community.

The CBD market is definitely very saturated with tons of brands from which to choose.

However, there is little regulation, so consumers don’t always get what they want.

“This problem has led many people to think that CBD does not work because a lot of customers trying out CBD could have purchased from one of the CBD companies that barely have any CBD in their products or none at all,” Jake said.

“Here at Thrive Flower, we take pride in working with local Pennsylvania hemp farms to craft potent and high quality CBD products.

We get all our products third-party lab tested by the best cannabis labs the U.S. has to offer.

In addition, we lab test each and every batch of CBD products we make three times to make sure our products are the highest quality.

Also, our CBD products are at a very competitive and great price compared to other brands on the market.”

“We are very active on our social media accounts (facebook.com/thriveflowerllc and instagram.com/thriveflower) so please don’t

hesitate to send us a message if you have any questions,” Jake added.

“You can also find us at local retailers. If you go on the homepage of our website, scroll to the bottom and you will see a Google Map. You can enter your address and it will show you the closest retailers that carry our high quality CBD products.”

Zigg Theartist Zigg Theartist is a multi-talented hip-hop artist from Philadelphia. Described as a natural talent and a work horse, Zigg is very inventive and true to making music that moves his soul instead of following what other artists are doing at the moment. He is a rapper, singer, songwriter and producer and has written for many different artists.

And now he’s looking to help other artists.

Being an independent artist, he sees artists struggle with marketing and promotion. He’s been in their position and knows exactly what they go through on a day-to-day basis. In the music industry, promotion and marketing are costly but vital to one’s career, so he helps artists promote as well as market their music at an affordable price. He offers things such as Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube promotion. This can lead to views, streams, likes, followers, etc. He also has an online radio station where they play all independent and upcoming artists’ music to shine light on those on the rise. This is all a part of the package that is offered.

The most popular service is the Radio Bundle Package: Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music promotions, along with a song placement on the Zigg Theartist radio station. And right now, he has a holiday special: The bundle package is only $25.

Zigg started the business because he felt the need to use his platform and give artists who are in the position he once was in an opportunity to get their music heard without having a major budget to do so, but he still can provide the same services for artists who have a bigger budget. All are welcome.

What sets his business apart is that the customer deals directly with Zigg. His prices for his services are unbeatable. He also gives feedback and advice for upcoming artists on whatever they need help with or have questions about.

Here’s how you can find out more about Zigg Theartist: Call 267-325-4496, check out his website unitedmasters.com/zigg-theartist, on Instagram and Twitter at @ziggtheartist, or Facebook: Zigg TheArtist. The best way to contact him for promotional services is by phone and/or Instagram.

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GIFT GUIDE

ries, and strives to use organic, wildcrafted and fair trade ingredients. Rebecca also creates seasonal specials featuring ingredients that she’s foraged and designs blends based around them. She has made blends for Bartram’s garden featuring Franklinia, a blend from the Wyck rose garden featuring their rose hips, an “Herbal Hug” featuring Germantown Magnolia petals, and is in the process of designing a blend for Greensgrow using the herbs they grow.

Currently, The Random Tea Room is offering $5 RTR credit for every $25 gift certificate purchased with no limit. The credit is for in-person purchases only (can be used in the retail space or during a pop-up event).

Want to learn more about The Random Tea Room? Call them at 267-639-2442, visit them at 713 N. 4th St., check out their website, therandomtearoom.com, or follow them on Instagram at @therandomtearoom.

Fashion fades, but STYLE is Eternal

30% off sweaters and outerwear - Expires Dec 24th 25% off Holiday gear Spend $50 get $10 on gift cards FREE Shipping over $150 online @labeled_boutique - (267) 521-1839 Wed-Sat 11am-8pm Sun-Tues Closed 5302 Wayne Avenue Suite 1B Philadelphia, PA 19144

Local Bead Store Specializing in Gemstone Beads, Jewelry Supplies, and MORE!

Mention this ad, and receive 30% off your entire purchase!

Bring your jewelry ideas to life and make the jewelry you want to wear for a fraction of the price. Beadworks is a full-service, one-stop bead shop specializing in premium gemstone beads, jewelry chains, precious charms & findings, and jewelry-making tools for creating one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry.

Open 7 days a week for in-store shopping and we also offer free Virtual Visits daily with curbside pickup and shipping options available.

BeadWorksPhiladelphia.com - @BeadWorksPhiladelphia MON - WED, FRI, SUN 12 - 6, THURS AND SAT 11AM-7PM (215)413-2323 - 619 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia PA 19147

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

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The Random Tea Room The Random Tea Room provides a diverse sensory selection that expands beyond the teapot. Most of all, it looks forward to spreading the goodwill of tea and growing with the community, cup by cup, pot by pot.

“We’re famous for our Chai Masala, a spicy, milky, sweet Indian black tea,” said owner Rebecca Goldschmidt.

“We grind the spices fresh before brewing, the main spice being Cardamom, which has uplifting and energizing properties. I’ve started bottling 16-ounce jars to sell at pop ups, and a vegan chai concentrate is available as well.

We also have a bottle return discount, if you bring back the jar, we give you $1 off the next purchase.”

Rebecca started the business as she needed an alternative to coffee and the coffee shop atmosphere.

“I figured tea and herbs was the solution, so I dived in without knowing anything about it. Luckily, my chosen path was destined to be. Shortly after starting renovations on the building, I met my tea sensei at an art fair, and he showed me the way of tea and helped me to refine my life in the process.

The tea room turned into a community space hosting art shows, alternative music experiences and poetry readings. Now, we’re focusing on staying safe and sending tea out to our audience via our monthly subscription program and refillable tea station. We also have wholesale options for cafes and markets.”

The Random Tea Room designs and prepares all of the tea and herbal blends it car-

If you’re looking for a candle this holiday season – either as a gift or for yourself – you have to check out Philadelphia Candle Company.

Philadelphia Candle Company is known for its unique and luxurious candles that fill any space with amazing fragrance. Its scented candles are made from the finest ingredients to ensure a safe, clean-burning, environmentally friendly candle. They are dedicated to high quality products, fragrances and individual craftsmanship. Every candle is carefully hand poured to ensure a quality candle every time.

As Philadelphia natives, Jocelyn Johnson & Nadira Tarboro were inspired to develop a brand that embodied the bold and rich character of the city that raised them. Thus, their signature collection, highlighting various neighborhoods in Philadelphia that contribute to its unforgettable character, was created.

Their signature collections are the most popular products, because people get excited when they see a neighborhood that resonates with them.

Philadelphia Candle Co. stemmed from their passion for candles and their burning desire to create something safe and healthy, but also luxurious for people to enjoy. They both loved candles, but in the past had difficulties finding candles that didn’t give them migraines. After several months of testing, their dream product was created – a non-toxic, luxurious candle reflective of our great and diverse city.

Philadelphia Candle Co. is different from other businesses because its handmade candles are vegan, all-natural, cruelty-free, and made with love. Their contemporary minimal aesthetics will glow in any room. Philadelphia Candle Co. is a Black, female-owned company, looking to represent the city of Philadelphia.

Want to learn more about Philadelphia Candle Co.? Check out its website, philadelphiacandle.co, or follow them on Instagram or Facebook at Philacandleco.

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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

DVINITI Skin Care DVINITI Skin Care is an all-natural skin care company that specializes in plant-based care and personalization. It can get you started with your skin care routine, and you can begin your self-care journey with them. The company’s mission is to provide plant-based, naturally derived skin care that nourishes your skin for daily maintenance to improve skin health and appearance.

At DVINITI Skin Care, you’ll find a wide range of products at affordable prices. From women’s face and body care products, to men’s items and solutions for dry or oily skin and more, DVINITI has you covered.

But what if you are having difficulty finding the best skin care, hair care and beauty solutions for you, or if you face challenges trying to interpret labels and identify the ingredients of personal care products? Have you ever tried multiple products over a short period of time only to find nothing works and you never seem to experience all the benefits the products claim to have on the label? If any of the above scenarios apply to you, it is time to partner with your DVINITI formulation expert to discover and create products specially designed for you.

“I truly love when I have the chance to meet my clients and community members in person,” said Marquita Robinson Garcia, founder.

“It brings joy to my heart to see so many believing in the power of plants to help them feel and look beautiful. Self-care is more important now than ever! Self-care isn’t just some trendy hashtag thrown around by beauty influencers after every post. It’s the actual practice of taking the time to pay attention to yourself long enough to sense when you need to recharge, refresh or recalibrate your batteries.

It’s the one thing we all talk about and remind each other to do, but we don’t make the time to actually do it and make it a priority. The reality, unless we can learn to make time to care for ourselves, [is that] it isn’t possible to care for others. You can only give that which you have to offer.”

Learn more about DVINITI Skin Care at

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1500 Locust Street Suite #3801, or by calling 215-845-5229, or visiting dviniti.com.

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Beadworks How are you all doing? No, really how are you actually doing? It has been an unreal year.

Want to know what we’ve been doing to keep busy and calm our minds? We’ve been creating one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry for ourselves and for friends & family. Whether you’re into luxury jewelry designs from big names or prefer to create gemstone jewelry packed with metaphysical healing properties and aromatherapy beads, jewelry making is versatile enough to fit all of your specific needs and fashion sense. Not only is it meditative and therapeutic, but you also get instant satisfaction by creating a gorgeous piece that you can wear or gift to a friend. Laying out all of your colorful strands of beads is really relaxing, all while supporting a local small business!

We have a gorgeous collection of colorful gemstones and an assortment of precious and plated jewelry chains and findings. Just stepping in the store will instantly spark your creativity.

Everyone needs to recharge right now – making jewelry is the perfect way to do it. Our shop is open 7 days a week so pop in for a dose of color therapy whenever you are ready! We are here to answer all your questions and teach you any jewelry-making technique you want to learn! Why not utilize our knowledgeable staff members? We love to give advice and make you feel excited and comfortable when you get home and start your creation. If you are not comfortable going into the shop, just video chat us and we will either do curbside pick up or mail directly to you.

Here’s how you can keep up with Beadworks: Website: www.beadworksphiladelphia.com Address: 619 E. Passyunk Ave. Phone: 215-413-2323 Social Media Accounts: Instagram: @beadworksphiladelphia Facebook: www.facebook.com/beadworksphiladelphia

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Earn 5% CASH BACK with your Monster Club Card We are an exceptional independent pet store, family owned and operated for over 10 years. Monster Pets offers a full line of quality pets, pet foods and supplies. Our services include a full line of tropical fish as well as a self-service doggy wash. We are honored to serve you and your pet, providing an alternative to the large chain pet stores while offering a great selection at competitive prices. Shop with us today!

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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

Monster Pets If you’re looking for a pet store that treats you like family, you have to check out Monster Pets. The family owned store has served the community for 20 years, and employees know their customers – and their customers’ pets – by name.

When you step inside Monster Pets, you’ll find an array of pet food and supplies, as well as small animals, birds, reptiles and tropical fish. They have something for everyone, all at low prices. And, unlike the big box stores, Monster Pets caters to each customer individually and its staff is genuine. They don’t have an exact script to read from and are big enough to serve the community, but with a friendlier, more inviting atmosphere.

Recently, Monster Pets has undergone a number of improvements and additions. New management and its team of amazing people are here for the love of the store and its customers. The tropical fish department has been completely remodeled into a truly amazing aquatics experience. Step into 1,200 squarefeet of every tropical fish you could imagine, from African Cichlids to Fancy Goldfish. The store also has brand new, state-of-the-art self dog washes.

Even better, regular customers can easily gain rewards just for shopping. The Monster Pets Club Card offers rewards such as free bags of dog or cat food, $25 coupons and more.

It’s a simple points system and not hard to attain, like some other stores.

If you’re looking for holiday savings and sales, Monster Pets has you covered. In addition to its Black Friday Sale, there will be ongoing holiday sales throughout the season that will offer fantastic discounts off of already low-priced items.

Stop by to check out Monster Pets today.

You can find them at 1946 S. Columbus Blvd., or call them at 215-336-9000. Want to keep up with what they’ve got going on daily? Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Omorose Natural Products Omorose in Egyptian means “beautiful.”

And you will look and feel your best when you use hair care products from Omorose Natural Products.

Omorose Natural Products started when founder and CEO Katrisha Tinsley noticed just how badly she had damaged her hair.

Katrisha searched for high quality natural hair products that would help restore the much-needed moisture, strength and shine to her hair but found no such products. She began to research and experiment with various natural ingredients to make her own hair products until she created a combination that worked wonders. That’s when she began to see an immediate difference in the overall health

GIFT GUIDE of her hair. Wanting other women to share in this new-found joy and reap the benefits of using her products, Katrisha became inspired and thus the Omorose Natural Products Hair Care line was born.

Omorose now carries a wide variety of products for both men and women, including a number of kits for hair growth and retention, beard grooming and more. All of the products are 100 percent natural, work well on all types and textures of hair, and even are safe for children. Top-selling products include the Hair Growth Serum, Hair Growth Starter Kit and Hair Growth and Retention Bundle.

Want special deals and offers? Subscribe to Omorose’s mailing list and Text VIP Club.

Also check out Omorose’s holiday day sale, which started on Black Friday for 40 percent off using discount code HOLIDAY40, plus a free gift, while supplies last.

If you want to improve the health of your hair, contact Omorose Natural Products at their website, omorosenaturalproducts.com, or call 800-592-6291. Omorose is open Monday to Friday, 11am-5pm. To stay up-to-date with them, follow Omorose on Instagram or Facebook.

Philadelphia’s High Quality CBD Company Thrive Flower CBD products are highly effective and crafted using local organic and naturally grown Pennsylvania hemp. Head to thriveflower.com for your high quality CBD needs as a natural wellness solution. Use the code “phillyweekly20” for 20% off your order!

Chestnut Hill Cleaning The holidays can get messy. Fortunately, there’s one company in Philadelphia who can help you clean up.

Chestnut Hill Cleaning offers mainly commercial cleaning, as well as residential service, window and carpet cleaning, and even snow removal throughout Philadelphia.

As a bonus, Chestnut Hill is offering 15 percent off its services throughout the holiday season. Just mention you saw its ad in Philadelphia Weekly to claim the discount.

The company is Black-owned by a young entrepreneur who mainly hires other people who are young.

Giving back to the community is very important to Chestnut Hill Cleaning, and one way is through its Sky Is The Limit Program.

The program instills the ideas of entrepreneurship to school-age children. Chestnut Hill teaches them the basics of being an entrepreneur through the use of various sporting activities and classroom instruction.

“It’s important to me, because I remember my path to entrepreneurship was always kind of trying things out and hoping they work without too much real guidance,” said Jonathan Williams, who founded the company when he was just 16 years old.

“I want the future generation of entrepreneurs who may not see a line of work that’s usually pushed to them know that it’s possible to start their own business, as well as how to maintain it.”

Reach out to Chestnut Hill Cleaning today for more information or to get a free quote.

You can find them at Chestnuthillcleaning. com, or call them at 215-919-9328.

We strongly believe in the beneficial use of CBD as a natural, healthy, and better wellness solution. We take pride in crafting potent CBD products at an affordable price to provide your bang for your buck. We offer a wide range of CBD products from topical creams, oil tinctures, gummy bears, smokable hemp flower, vape pens, and pet products! All our products are 3rd party lab tested by the best cannabis labs the United States has to offer.

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

GIFT GUIDE

The Random Tea Room provides a diverse sensory selection that expands beyond the teapot. $20 Monthly Tea + Herb Subscription

Choose a curated selection from the following varieties: Healing Herbal Blends, Dark Teas, Light Teas, RTR Signature Blends/Monthly Specials or the wildcard for adventurous tea lovers, the “Random” Selection.

ORDER ONLINE: TheRandomTeaRoom.com RTR 2020 Mug Show - Show us your Mug, through a Face Shield!

The Random Tea Room is daring designers of all trades to dress up a face shield & participate in an online competition. Artists will receive a blank shield to style, create a narrative & model. Shields will be raffled off and artists will receive 50% of the funds raised. This competition will run the length of the pandemic but inquiries need to be in by January 30th. $5 tea room credit

with the purchase of a $25 gift certificate

@TheRandomTeaRoom - (267)639-2442 713 N 4th St. Philadelphia, PA 19123

Open Thursday’s 12noon-6pm for pre-paid pick up and walk up orders

Safaridesignss Looking for a gift of custom made jewelry this holiday season? Or maybe you want to reward yourself with not only some jewelry, but lip gloss or press-on nails.

Safaridesignss has you covered. Nina Anderson started her business in 2016.

“I always wanted to be a fashion designer,” she said.

“I love being the only person with something, so that made me want to start my own line of fashionable items. I started out making choker necklaces and gradually went onto making lip gloss, jewelry, and press-on nails. I taught myself how to do each task by watching YouTube videos and doing research on the materials I’d need.”

Safaridesignss is different from others in that you can really get what you want, not what someone else has designed.

“I provide a service where you can come to me with an idea or a design, and I make it come to life,” Anderson said.

“People should shop with me because it will give them a lot of room for creativity. Most businesses similar to mine only offer a certain range of designs that are pre-set. On the other hand, with Safaridesignss, I offer many options and ways to express yourself through fashion.”

So what is the most popular item at Safaridesignss?

“My most popular product is my press-on nails,” Anderson said.

“Press-on nails are a quick alternative to getting your nails done at a shop that can be glued on or held down with adhesive tabs.”

Ready to check out Safaridesignss? You’ll see all it has to offer and can make purchases on Instagram: @Safaridesignss.

Scented Shadows

Multi talented, and business man Zigg Theartist, brings a new fresh sound to the city of brotherly love. Giving fans different vibes to listen too, Zigg raps, sings, and produces. Even though he works hard on his own craft, he also has his own online radio station, provides promotional service for Spotify, Youtube, and Apple Music, written songs, and beats for artist as well, with intention to uplift the artist that are not in the spotlight as of yet.

@ZiggTheArtist - unitedmasters.com/zigg-theartist DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Don’t give a boring gift this holiday season.

Instead, check out Scented Shadows and make someone really happy.

Scented Shadows is the place to find the perfect scented candles and wax melts and logo lighters. When you go to its website – scentedshadows.shop – you will find a wide selection from which to choose. If you’re not sure, check out the shop’s best sellers: After 9:30, a blend of strawberry guava and passionfruit for the perfect sweet combination, and Mango Madness. Both scents are sweet and fruity.

Even better, you’re going to find fantastic prices. Scented Shadows has items to fit any budget.

Scented Shadows was founded in 2019, and since its first day, it’s brought the best selection of products and merchandise to its customers. The name has become synonymous with quality throughout the entire Philadelphia area. They do their best to ensure a permanent variety of fantastic items, along with unique limited edition and seasonal items to fit any budget.

“Three years ago, I had the thought to cre-

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY ate my own candles, but was not sure to start,” said Teauntay Dukes.

“One day, I searched the basics to create a candle, took my finished product to work, and days later a coworker gave me courage to make a business. I trusted in myself to perfect my craft.”

In the future, Scented Shadows wants to open a storefront in the inner city to build relationships with its customers and welcome them to be accessible to its products and offers.

So make the right choice this holiday season and buy a great gift for friends and family – or maybe just treat yourself.

Check out Scented Shadows online, or follow them on Instagram. They also can be reached at (267) 388-1298.

Deame’s Bettah Buttahs Deame’s Bettah Buttahs is a Philadelphia homegrown company that creates and handcrafts beauty products for the skin and hair with aromatics for the home. Our idea was to create products designed to hydrate your skin and hair without harmful and unnecessary preservatives.

My little sister was diagnosed with eczema of the scalp at the age of two and the products in the beauty store weren’t working. Her hair was actually falling out. I then decided to research and create products that would heal ailments that we had no control over having.

The decision was simple; creating natural products would keep the skin and scalp regulated. We have designed all of these products from the raw oils and butters, fragrances from the leaves and petals of flowers and plants, the barks of trees, and the peels of fruit.

Our top selling products are our blended butters that are creamy and absorb moderately into the skin creating a moisture barrier to keep the skin hydrated all day. We recommend pairing our soaps for proper hydration, balance, smoothness and layering of scents.

While everyone has their own personal favorite options, Tangerine Grape is one of many of our top selling products.

Along with our soy based candles that we now have over 50 scents available, our shampoo trios offer a hydrating deep cleanse and simple detangle. The credo we stand by is to deliver top quality luxury products at affordable prices for everyone. The options we have available are optimal for everyone and we have created a one stop shop for the skin and hair while adding home options as well. We believe that we deserve natural products without fillers or harsh preservatives. Take the time to view the site for our holiday sets and combos. May nature be around everywhere you go. Peace and Blessings.

Here’s how to stay up-to-date with Deame’s: www.deamesbettahbuttahs.com FB: Deames Bettah Buttahs IG: @Deame’s Bettah Buttahs T: @Bettahbuttahs14 215-834-9648

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

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GIFT GUIDE

PHILADELPHIA CANDLE CO. H a n d Po u re d Ve ga n C o c o n u t Wa x

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Peppermint Bliss, Sparkle and Cheer, are a few of our aromatic candles this year! Queen Village to East Falls, Holiday Candles FOR ALL! 100% vegan, non-toxic candle was our top priority.

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

GOSSIP

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

ICEPACK

18

Image | Daniel Schludi

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

SHOT IN THE DARK

COVID vaccine creates new headaches, ideas

N

d) Who in Philly city government will turn ow that my Philadelphia has its first round of pandemic-related down the opportunity for early COVID-19 vaccine inoculations out on the shots – like Trump & Co. did in its new anstreet (are we there yet, Thomnouncement – so that less the fortunate can be as Farley?) for hospital/medical vaccinated? I don’t see Kenney or Krasner as personnel (these first responding “women and children first” kind of guys. heroes should get something for e) Who did you most hear, since the antheir trouble, what with having nouncement of the COVID-19 inoculation, to wear scrubs as a fashion statement 24/7), using the phrase, “If I don’t get a flu shot, there’s a whole host of fresh headaches and nowww, why would I get a COVID shot?” Two frank ideas to consider while the healing bethings come to mind here: the obviousness gins: of the plague vs. the sniffles is one. Secondly, a) Who would call a government developI am not a person who gets regular flu shots, ment program “Operation Warp Speed” other preferring instead my usual warding-off-flu than some Trekkie in the Trump administramethod of chewing up raw coneflowers, swaltion, someone goofily stargazing and lowing handfuls of Zinc and drinking self-possessed enough to turn even a copious amounts of potato vodka. Havvaccine-worthy world emergency into a ing realized that I have too much to live

BY A.D. screaming kids cartoon, a reality show, AMOROSI for (who else can write this column?) or a Marvel Comics Universe action-adand too many suits I haven’t worn yet, venture? Vroom, vroom.

I’ll take the COVID-19 shot. Oh, and did b) Who among your self-serving friends, acI mention that I’m a doctor? quaintances and business associates (among Work it out, guys whatever businesses are left, but I digress) A bonus round, pre-inoculation “C’mon, will soon start saying they deserve an anman,” goes to those local men and women – ti-COVID-19 shot before everyone else? (Yes, mostly in the gray suburbs – who own or atI’ve already heard one such conversation tend gyms, health clubs and workout centers at an outdoor patio dining table along East in the area, and stake their psychic claim to Passyunk Avenue on the last gorgeously apignore lockdown orders as a rite of personal pointed warm weather weekend in this hellfreedom. I get it. You paid all this money for hole of a 2020. And, yes, I know who you are, that Lululemon Athletica gear, and want to selfish prick Dan Dan Noodle Eater. THAT show it off. But, you’re no Libertarians. TrainPLATE WAS FOR THE WHOLE FUCKING ers: Do just like Philly restaurateurs do, open TABLE, PIG). And how soon will they start up your parking lots, buy several industrial looking down at you as in, “no fucking way, no heaters, and stretch. Trainees: stay home and how, are you more deserving of the vaccine” do a pushup for God’s sake. than them?

Birx in town c) Who went onto E*TRADE over the last Speaking of “to vaccinate or not vaccinate,” seven days and dropped their last remaining Dr. Deborah Birx – scourge of the White PPP money – the cash they didn’t give their House Coronavirus Task Force as its response employees, but instead donated to a handful coordinator and recent “Saturday Night Live” of social change initiatives – on Pfizer/BioNcaricature – spent some dining time at The Tech stock?

Love in the Rittenhouse area, fiddling while

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GOSSIP

Rome burned, as well as at Camden’s Cooper mask-donning local celebrities what they’ve University Hospital. No word if anyone peed been up to, beyond the pale, during COVIDin her Kennett Square Exotic Mushroom 19’s pandemic, I reached out this week to DorSoup. othea Gamble, the co-owner and operator of Trunc in Northern Liberties, at N. 2nd Street.

Beehive music buzzing A Red Bank, N.J., native who co-owns the Philadelphia’s creepy crawly young psycheartisans-focused property with her partner, delic ensemble Spirit of the Beehive hadn’t Dagmar Mitchell, Trunc is the only Black been heard from in a tic – nothing but a quick, spare song “The Door is Open,” a single ear- makers arts, crafts and gift store in Philly. lier this year with zip word of any follow-ups. Trunc is Black-owned, lesbian-owned, woman-owned and veteran-owned, and Gamble Last week, however, the five-man SpiBeehive and Mitchell have been working hard to surdropped a spooky, fleeting, cut-up collage of vive during COVID with online and curbside sound and image on the Twitter account of Saddle Creek Records, signaling a new label service.

“I did, however, receive an air fryer for my and an even more bugged out new direction. birthday, the kind with all the bells and whisBoo. tles, which sounds like a good thing, doesn’t New scholarship fund it?” said Gamble of what she did with what Maybe, just maybe, a towering Philadellittle downtime she had during the COVID-19 phia rapper didn’t like being called cheap in quarantine. my column last week “It was so challenging after handing a group to use, though, I wantof local kids – in total – ed to throw it out the a $20 bill for their trouwindow. I hated it. But I ble. Dag, Millie. I say would not be defeated. I that because, this week, am not a quitter. I finally Mill is prepping that stopped burning meat to long-discussed $2 mila crackly crunch. Now, I lion scholarship fund to can roast a whole chickbenefit underprivileged en in it. Yummy. Plus, kids in Philadelphia in for our business, since need and want of educaTrunc didn’t have an tional tools, the fund he online store prior to the started with his billion pandemic, I spent the buddy, the 76ers co-ownlast few months learner Michael Rubin. Well, ing about upgrading our allllreet. Rubin’s got the website, setting up an cash, what from selling e-commerce store.” off his e-commerce, ChiGamble doesn’t mind cago-based online-shopwearing a mask, and ping platform, the hers is handmade by ShopRunner, to FedEx, an Ethiopian woman, then going brick-andArchitect, who is also a mortar (which had to be handbag maker. cheaper), by buying out “She started making Minnesota’s WinCraft Image | Courtesy Dorothea Gamble masks because of the factory through his Fapandemic and to help natics parent organization. WinCraft is an old school legacy sports the family that makes her bags (Hiwi Leathlogo factory for college and professional teams er) continue to make a living, while living in gear (hats, pennants, etc.), and Fanatics is an Ethiopia supporting her community,” said all online jawn made to sell said gear. Supply Gamble.

“This mask is not just beautiful, it’s versaand demand. Maybe Rubin can make that tile. Can be worn as a bandana, neckerchief, scholarship fund worth $4 mil. head scarf.”

New places to eat When the masks can come down forever West Philly. It’s not just for sweaty house parties with bands from Drexel and People’s (“if that day comes”), Gamble will keep her Emergency Center affordable artist housing favorites as collector’s items, vintage pieces to be treasured. Until then, she and her partin Mantua anymore. There’s comfort food. ner are focusing on “supporting Black makers And it’s moving around, all wiggly like. Take U-of P campus fave Baby Blues BBQ, which around the region,” while planning for 2021, several youth initiatives (“helping them utilize just moved down the block from its 34th and Sansom Street digs. Or Mantua’s own, shiny their skills and training them in a craft”), and new Sticky’s at 3300 Fairmount Avenue. The continuing to evolve the Trunc website as a place for good beyond sales. not-so-handsomely titled diner is the home of “I am sure as the new normal progresses, I tasty chicken tenders from NYC with the West Philly outlet as the first Sticky’s outside of NY will also teach myself one or three more skills before all this is over.” and NJ. So, hey.

Masked Philly: Dorothea Gamble @ADAMOROSI In Icepack’s continuing saga of asking

Skin House Facial Bar

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Blue Pearl Cafe

Organic Plant Based Cafe Blue Pearl Cafe is a completely organic, plant-based, and glutenfree cafe located on Rittenhouse Place in Ardmore. Grown from Juice Dr., a small juice company also in Ardmore, Blue Pearl is here to boost your immunity in a tasty and convenient way!

Order pick-up or delivery through our website or stop by for a quick @bluepearlcafe - bluepearl.cafe

(484) 414-4122 - Monday-Sunday 9am-3pm

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

20

THE RUNDOWN

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THE RUNDOWN Image | Nathan Ansell

The holidays are here: Let’s eat

The holidays are here, and you’ll want to eat – a lot. We’ve rounded up some special deals from Philly and surrounding area establishments to help you do just that. Many of these deals are available even on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Given the restrictions for COVID, be sure to contact the restaurant in advance to ensure these specials are still going on.

Rex 1516

Fond

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a cookie spread, so Jessie PrawluckiSlyer, co-owner of Fond, is making assortment cookie trays with six flavors to make the holidays a little sweeter.

Each tray will boast gingerbread people, pecan snowballs, lemon raspberry sandwiches, cherry toffee chocolate cookies, almond cardamom biscotti and white chocolate peppermint shortbread. Trays of 24 cookies are available for $32 and an assortment of six cookies for $12. Orders can be placed by emailing orders. fondphilly@gmail.com. 1537 S 11th St. | 215.551.5000 | www.fondphilly.com

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Philadelphia’s go-to for elevated Southern cuisine is offering Christmas dinner to-go for two ($125) and four ($240), including Buttermilk Biscuits, White Bean Stew, Au Gratin Potatoes, Green Bean & Broccoli Slaw, Homestyle Cornbread & Pineapple Stuffing, Housesmoked Ham, Bouche de Noel and a chef’s selection of Christmas Cookies for Santa. Beverage offerings from Beverage Manager Alex Tack include an Aperitif with bourbon, angostura bitters, cinnamon and orange zest and a Digestif with coconut oil-washed cognac, coffee liqueur, creme de mure, lemon. The beverage package is $55 for 2 or $100 for 4. Orders can be placed now by emailing heather@rex1516.com with guest name, telephone number, food package for 2 or 4, time of pickup on Dec. 24 (12-6 pm) and beverage package (if so, 2 or 4). 1516 South St. | 267.319.1366 | www.rex1516.com

Square 1682

Rittenhouse’s modern American kitchen + cocktails is offering an affordable three-course prix-fixe Christmas dinner to-go, boasting a selection of small plates, including Potato Leek Soup, Pear Salad and Gnocchi & Meatballs; plus, guests’ choice of entrée, including Roasted Filet Mignon, Ahi Tuna, Lemon Pepper Chicken or Cauliflower Curry; and Cheesecake or Peach Cobbler for dessert. The three-course dinner is $55/person and orders can be placed by calling the restaurant at 215.563.5008. 121 S. 17th St. | 215.563.5008 | www.square1682.com

Red Owl Tavern

The contemporary kitchen and bar perched across from Independence Mall in Old City is offering a prixfixe three-course Christmas dinner to-go including guests’ choice of Small Plates: Burratta, Potato Leek Soup or Kale Caesar; Christmas Feast: Braised Lamb Shank, Chipotle Rubbed Hangar Steak, Butter Poached Lobster Tail, or Jerk Chicken; and Dessert: Red Velvet Cake or Tiramisu. The Christmas prix-fixe is $55/per person and can be ordered online. 433 Chestnut St. | 215.923.2267 | redowltavern.com

Amada Christmas Eve Dinner

Garces fans will still be able to enjoy this annual Christmas Eve tradition. Celebrate Christmas Eve with an Amada Tradition at home with you and your family. $55 per person for Turkey or $75 for Prime Rib, minimum 2 people, Ready-to-Heat, Instructions Included. Includes: Choice of Main to Share (Roasted Turkey Breast with Herb Crust & Pan Gravy or Prime Rib with Bordelaise & Horseradish Crème Fraiche); Served With ALL of the following: Herb Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Salad Verde, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, Whipped Bone Marrow, Parker House Rolls, and Holiday Cookies with Spiced Hot Chocolate. Order by Dec. 19. Pick-up by Dec. 23 and Dec. 24, 12pm to 6:30pm | Pick up at 125 Walnut Street | garcestradingcompany.com

THE RUNDOWN

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Urban Farmer

Logan Square’s modern American steakhouse is offering Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners to-go including everything you need for a delicious and special holiday meal at home. Guests will choose between a Roasted 1855 Beef Ribeye or Pennsylvania Ham with a bevy of sides, boasting Brussels sprouts, Yukon Potato Puree, Roasted Winter Vegetables, Cornbread, as well as guests’ choice of pie, including Coconut Custard, Shoo Fly, or Apple Almond Crumb. Whole packages are available for $180 and feed 4-6, while half packages are available for $100 and feed 1-2. Christmas Eve packages can be picked up between 2 and 8 pm on Dec. 24 and Christmas Day packages can be picked up between 11 am and 4 pm on Dec. 25. 1850 Benjamin Franklin Parkway | 215.963.2788 | urban farmersteakhouse.com

Holiday Cocktail Party

Presented by The Olde Bar, Amanda, Village Whiskey, J.G. Domestic. Cheers to the season with a selection of our favorite small plates from Garces restaurants for the perfect cocktail hour! Includes: Family-style portions of Whipped Feta & Garden Vegetables (JG Domestic) , Bacon-Wrapped Dates (Amada), Crab Fingers (The Olde Bar), Shrimp Cocktail (The Olde Bar), Deviled Eggs (Village Whiskey), and Spanish Meatballs & ManchegoStuffed Cherry Pepper (Amanda). $45 person, minimum two people. Add Christmas Cocktails to go by calling The Olde Bar and adding to your order at (215) 253-3777. Order by: Anytime now through the end of year. Pick-up: Four days notice needed for pick-up. Pick up at The Olde Bar, 125 Walnut Street | garcestradingcompany.com

Cry Baby Pasta

Holiday gathering cancelled this year? Don’t Cry, Baby! They’ve got you covered with TOGO Party Kits. The food offerings serve 2 and beverage options can be added. Menu includes: Antipasti Taleggio, Gorgonzola, Salami, Speck, Olives, Fig Mostarda, Pine Nuts Garlic Focaccia Bread Lobster Arancini Shishito Aioli Artichoke Leek Cream, Decorative Packaging. Personalized Holiday Greeting Link to Festive Spotify Playlist. Detailed instructions delivery to central Location Minimum 10 kits per order ($350+). Must order at least four days in advance. Now through the end of the year. $35 per kit that serves two people. | 627 S. 3rd Street | crybabypasta.com

The Olde Bar Seven Fishes Christmas Eve Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Italian Christmas Eve feast cooked in the style of The Olde Bar! $67.50 per person, minimum 2 people, ready-toheat, instructions included. Includes: Cured Hamachi Pastrami, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Curried Mussels, Crab and Corn Chowder, Bay Scallop Pappardelle, Lobster Pot Pie, and Tile Fish en Papillote. Finished with a slice of 9-layer caramel chocolate cake with el Corazon curd and sea salt. Order by Dec. 19. Pick up by Dec. 23 and Dec. 24, 12pm to 6:30pm. 125 Walnut Street | garcestradingcompany.com

Hudson Table

Hawthornes Beer Cafe Pivot Coffee & Wine Shop

Hawthornes Beer Cafe and new Pivot Coffee & Wine Shop have a brand-new pastry chef and baker Daniel Tang (Sugar Philly) who is firing up the holiday sweets this year. All items are available for pre-order through www.hawthornecafe.com, or via phone at 215-627-3012. Deadline for pre-orders will be Dec. 20 or until sold out. All items will be available for pickup at Hawthornes on Dec. 22, 23 and 24. (215) 627-3012 | 738 S. 11th St.

Celebrate Christmas with a high-end meal kit created by the chefs at Hudson Table. Reheating/finishing instructions will be provided, and they will be offering streamlined pickup/take out.

This meal kit is intended to be 4 servings. $125 for the entire kit. Everything will be prepared in their controlled, sanitary, fully compliant kitchen in small-batches each day with a rotating menu, along with a small team of highly-trained team members each day to ensure cleanliness and precautions are taken. Order

by Dec. 20. Pick up on Dec. 23 between 3pm and 7pm. 1001 N. 2nd St. | (215) 982-2580 | hudsontable.com

PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

22

THE RUNDOWN

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Jet Wine Bar

Philadelphia’s “global vineyard” is offering holiday bundles perfect for the wine connoisseur on your list, consisting of a stellar selection of wine gift packs and a premium cheese package. There are five wine gift packs to choose from, and each pack has three bottles included. The bundles are sorted by Black Owned/Operated, Female Winemakers, Orange Is The New Wine, Au Naturel, and Rosé All Day, and range in price from $55-$99. As for the assorted cheese and accoutrements, the package consists of three cheeses, house made pimento cheese, two buttermilk biscuits, pickles and jam for $25.

Additional holiday gifts include gift certificates and Jet Wine Bar T-shirts, stickers and tote bags. Red and green tissue paper is available as gift wrap for all holiday bundles if desired. All of the above offerings are available now for purchase online, in-store or over the phone. Pick up is available until Friday, Dec. 24.

1525 South Street | 215.735.1116 | jetwinebar.com

It’s not too late to get that perfect gift for the person who could use a good drink (that’s pretty much all of us after this year) or who wants some tasty treats.

We’ve rounded up a few places and gifts you’ll want to check out.

Still shopping? Clear your list with these ideas 2SP Brewing Company

To keep the holiday tradition alive, Delaware County neighbors and friends 2SP Brewing Company and Wawa have partnered yet again for the highly anticipated release of Holiday Reserve Coffee Stout. It’s available at select Wawa locations, 2SP Brewing Company in Aston, and across the four-state region of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey at select distributors all holiday season long. That beer buff on your shopping list? This one is for them. 120 Concord Rd #101-103 | 484-4837860 | 2spbrewing.com

Art in the Age

Old City’s one-of-a-kind tasting room, home bar supply and bottle shop has hit the nail on the head this year for imbibers across all holiday shopping lists with the addition of its new gift packages featuring allinclusive DIY cocktail kits. Available now through the holidays for purchase online and via curbside pick-up, Art in the Age’s gift packages include three cocktail kits: Martini Gift Package, Old Fashioned Gift Package, and Beginner Bartender Gift Package, as well as the ultimate Art in the Age fan package, including branded glass, flask, tote, mug and more. All packages are available for $120 on its website. In addition, Art in the Age offers a variety of spirits, bitters, shrubs, glassware, books, and more available for purchase online or in-store. 116 N. 3rd Street | 215-922-2600 | artintheage.com/

DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

Forsythia Old City’s modern French bar and restaurant from Chef Christopher Kearse has crafted a stellar gift basket fit for the most discerning foodies on your shopping list. The robust holiday gift basket includes cheese, saucisson sec, house-made pasta and sauce, macaroons, truffle honey, jam, fresh-baked Forsythia focaccia and a bottle of wine for $100. Orders required one-day in advance of pick up. Available for online ordering until Monday, Dec. 21, and ready for pick up on Wednesday, Dec. 23.

Additionally, Forsythia is offering a gift card special. Guests who purchase $500 total receive an additional $100 gift card to enjoy themselves, or as an added gift! 233 Chestnut Street | 215.644.9395 | forsythiaphilly.com

Philadelphia Brewing Company

For the beer lovers on your holiday shopping list, you’ll want to hit up Philadelphia Brewing Company, one of Philadelphia’s oldest and largest breweries. From pale ales to porters, Philadelphia Brewing Company offers an array of craft brews that are sure to impress. Treat your loved ones to a six pack of Kenzinger Pilsner or Walt Wit Belgian-Style White Ale this holiday season and win the award for best gift-giver. Available now in single bottles, six packs, and cases for in-store pick up and online ordering. Check out the website for merchandise including growlers, glassware, T-shirts, and more. 2440 Frankford Ave | 215.427.2739 | philadelphiabrewing.com/

THE

Headed back Chris Morris, a part-time crew coach at Conestoga High School, took this picture from the Schuylkill River as the crew is returning to Boathouse Row from practice. Practice ends everyday with this lap around the river bend to Boathouse Row when coaches get this magnificent view of the city. The rowers themselves get to take in the view when they start practice because they are sitting backwards in the shell. Have a photo for the Big Pic? Email it to news@ philadelphiaweekly.com or tag us on social at #PWBigPic.

BIG

PICTURE

23

NICE RACK

SEX WITH TIMAREE

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

HOW TO INTRODUCE

AN ARSENAL OF

SEX TOYS

REACH OUT TO US. Carry PW’s at your spot. drops@philadelphiaweekly.com.

Q: I just got into a new relationship and so ers feel awkward about not being immediately far, it’s going well. One thing making me anxproficient with some new piece of technology. ious is how to introduce my boyfriend to my The presence of a sex toy can also put addiEXTENSIVE sex toy collection. tional pressure onto a sexual enBefore him, I was happily single counter, as though the mission is for a long time and over the years to deliver an orgasm by the most amassed an impressive set of viefficient and powerful means posbrators, dildos and other fun consible. traptions. I know toys aren’t just Some feel it’s less impressive for single people, but I’ve never to involve accessories, like it imused them with a partner. How do plies they’re less skilled. That’s I present this without making him wild to me. Look, I love watching feel like it’s a knock to his abiliBrad Pitt as a bare-knuckled fightties? er in “Snatch,” relying on nothFirst and foremost: A round ing but a well-placed cross. But of applause for your toy collecsometimes you’re in the mood for tion. What a delight. Whether “John Wick” and watching a guy partnered or solo, you’re all who truly knows how to wield a set with a curated collection of Glock...or a knife...or a pencil. You @TIMAREE_LEIGH pleasure. know what I mean? *cue “Little MerWomen are inmaid” soundtrack* creasingly comYou want thinfortable, thanks to gamabobs? a surprise alliance I’ve got twenty. between sex-positive Anyway. You’re feminism and capiabsolutely right that talism. toys can be used by Sex toys – especouples or groups, cially vibrators – are as well as solo praclargely marked to titioners; and you’re women, and adveralso right that there tising has increascan be a lot of anxiingly leaned into ety about how varinotions of feminist ous implements are empowerment. introduced.

Since we routinely There is still a ignored the conlot of trepidation cept of feminine around sex toys. desire and the exSome folks are neristence of the clitovous about the vulris, even debating nerability of using the “purpose” of a toy in the presence female orgasm for of another person, most of western some fear that it will make their partner feel history, it’s a refreshing change to normalize inadequate if they “need” an auxiliary. Othtaking control of your own pleasure.

TIMAREE SCHMIT

Real Men. Real Community.

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DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY

“It was cool for ‘Sex and the City’ characters to talk about their rabbit vibes a decade ago, but owning an Autoblow II or Tenga eggs still doesn’t quite elicit the ‘self-care’ vibe.”

PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY

Some guys feel left out of the cultural shift, though, especially when it comes to devices meant for them. It was cool for “Sex and the City” characters to talk about their rabbit vibes a decade ago, but owning an Autoblow II or Tenga eggs still doesn’t quite elicit the “self-care” vibe.

That might be why heterosexual men are more likely to buy devices designed for use on their partners than themselves. mediately And that’s why echnology. the key to introput addi- ducing your new sexual en- boo to your treamission is sure chest is gothe most ing to be all about means pos- onboarding. Make sure that he feels mpressive like an active parike it im- ticipant in the use ed. That’s of your arsenal. watching Approach it kled fight- like you’re getting on noth- him into a TV seross. But ries. You wouldn’t mood for plop down on the ing a guy couch, turn on o wield a Season 5 Episode encil. You 7 and just be like, “It’s about this are in- guy in advertiscom- ing in the ‘60s. It’s hanks to good.” e alliance It can start ex-positive when you’re aland capi- ready getting it on – while there’s s – espe- already some ators – are momentum – by marked to asking if he’s innd adver- terested in you increas- bringing out any... ned into accoutrements. feminist Have a small numment. ber of preferred routinely options already in the con- mind, like a favorfeminine ite vibe, something d the ex- swatty that stings, the clito- a blindfold, maybe debating something small pose” of that goes in a butt. gasm for Too many options western can be overwhelmnormalize ing, even if he’s super comfortable. Ask what he would like to do to you or have done to him

SEX WITH TIMAREE and share what you have on tap to meet that desire.

Introduce the implement casually. Let it be seen, give a brief description of what kind of sensations can be expected.

You don’t need to conduct a whole infomercial, but if there are multiple buttons or important safety information, convey that.

If he’s the one wielding it, balance out giving feedback and letting him play around. If you’re the one at the helm, ask if he likes what you’re doing, and make it clear how he can request more or less of something.

Here’s the big thing: Your comfort with talking about it will put him at ease.

Another option is to start the conversation before you’re anywhere near the bedroom, just asking if he likes or is interested in trying something out. Most people like devices that do cool stuff and I strongly suspect it’ll get both of you fired up to take the ole Hitachi for a spin.

If, for whatever reason, he’s intimidated by the existing armory, maybe he’ll be down with picking out something new together. Discuss your respective desires and fantasies, collaborate on scenarios or stimulation that might be fun to explore for the first time together.

Have a question for Timaree? Send an email to asktimaree@philadelphiaweekly.com.

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GENERAL AND TREATMENT FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED Open your heart and home to children of all ages New Foundations, Inc. 215-203-8733 www.nfi4kids.org MAINTENANCE TECH Must have knowledge of plumbing, painting & some electrical. Prior maintenance exp. necessary. Salary commensurate with exp. Email: nsgprop@gmail.com

SECRETARY/ LEASING AGENT - F/T Located in Montgomery Co. Pleasant person with good phone skills, to show apts., process applications, minimal secretarial work.

Email resume to: nsgprop@gmail.com or Call 732-886-6830 FLAGGERS ($12.50/hr) Traffic Plan seeks Flaggers to set up and direct traffic around construction sites. A valid PA driver license and clean driving record a must, good pay and benefits. If interested please fill out an application at 510 Hertzog Blvd, King of Prussia, PA on MondayĘźs 9am - 12pm or online at trafficplan.com.

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NOTICE IS GIVEN that TNS Diamonds Inc did on December 31st, 2020, submit to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Banking and Securities, an application for renewal licensure of a pawnbroker office at this location as follows: 136 S 8th St Unit A, Philadelphia, PA 19107. All interested persons may file written comments in favor of or in opposition to the application for renewal with the Pawnbroker Hearing Officer at: PA Department of Banking and Securities Non - Depository Licensing Office 17 N 2nd St, Ste 1300, Harrisburg, PA 17101.

All comments to be considered must be received by the Department within thirty (30) days from the date of this newspaper publication.

Apartments for Rent

13TH & LOCUST AREA1 BR, 2nd fl. front, a/c & carpet $950 + util. Available Immediately. 215-384-4202

HAPPY WINDOWS Shutters, 2-Inch Wood, Pleated Shades, Roman Shades, Drapes, Verticals, Mini-Blinds

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215-465-7525 Help Wanted Clarivate Analytics (US) LLC seek Financial Systems Administrator in Philadelphia, PA to develop new features and integrations for finance applications and integrations with NetSuite ERP. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com Ref: 92636

Public Notice Leave Inspired, hereby gives notice that articles of incorporation will be filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, under the provisions of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988. The purpose for which the corporation is to be organized is for personal development coaching and consulting.

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PW Classifieds is a great place to sell your ex’s stuff.

8500 BUSTLETON AVE. Corner of Evart St. Winter Special 1 & 2 BR $900 - $1,200. Water & gas included. 215-742-2261 Grant Garden Apartments Winter Special, upgraded 1 & 2 BR, 1 BA. $825 - $1050 includes water. Laundry rm on site. Off of Blvd. 215-464-6411 Last month free. Renovated bi-level 2 bedroom, w/d, c/a. $1525/month 26xx South Street.

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                                                                                  

                                                                                                

                                                                                  

                                                                   

                                                                                     

                                                                                       

“QUARANTINE IS KILLING ME! I CAN’T STAND THE INSIDE OF THIS APARTMENT ANYMORE!” -Literally Every Young Person in Philly Philadelphians have been trapped in their house for months. Work from home, eat at home, live at home. They’re craving a change of scenery.

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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2020

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Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity Mobile requires residential post-pay Xfinity Internet. Line limitations may vary. Pricing subject to change. After 20 GB monthly data use, speeds reduced to a maximum of 1.5Mbps download/750 Kbps upload. Xfinity Mobile utilizes the mobile network ranked most reliable in the RootMetrics® US RootScore® report, 2H 2019. Results may vary. Award is not endorsement. Xfinity customers will auto-connect to Xfinity WiFi when available and not use the wireless network. RootMetrics did not test WiFi networks. For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures visit: www.xfinity.com/mobile/policies/broadband-disclosures. NPA233816-0001 NED-FRE-PhillyXM-Consid-V4