Philadelphia Free Press 07-22-20 Digital Issue

Upcycled Joy in the Making

students and friends, allowing them to pursue their own creative journeys. So many times, I hear people say, “I can’t do

By Anne Cecil the absolute joy of creating that,” to which I reply, “Of Community Contributor things! I felt empowered. I course you can. You just need learned to problem solve. I y mother was an learned to design. I challenged someone to show you how.

There is nothing more satisfy“off the boat” Engand exercised my creativity. I lish woman who learned to accept mistakes and ing than watching the discovery and success on learners had lived through WWII. understand that they are part Through that experience she of “seeing the hand” in hand- faces after they master the first learned many useful skills and made. Knitting opened up an steps of a project.

The past few months of stay developed principles that she entire world that has and conat home has led to a similar passed on to me. I learned to tinues to bring me great joy. experience of my own. Out of knit when I was 3 and though I constantly pass these skills necessity, boredom or interI was so young, I discovered and tenets on to numerous

M

est, the isolation has put us in touch with our creativity. We have been forced to learn new digital platforms to communicate, express and share our lives more often with those we love. We’ve had to find innovative ways of entertaining our loved ones and ourselves as well. Many of us have used this time to learn a new craft or skill, anything from bread making to mask making and numerous things in-between.

We’ve learned to utilize what we have and what is readily

Center City Philadelphia's Community Newspaper

July 22, 2020

A Vision for St. Laurentius Church

But now, it must be said: “time is running out!”

By David S. Traub Contributing Writer

T

he preservation of the historically designated St. Laurentius Church has again become an issue. A developer purchased the church in January of this year for $50,000.00 from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, and now after six months has applied to the Philadelphia Historical Commission to demolish it, stating that because of its dangerous condition, it would be in “the public interest” to do so. The issue was heard at the Commission’s

A View of St. Laurentius Church from Wilt Street in Fishtown. Photo by David S. Traub.

available. We’ve learned what we need and what we don’t.

We’ve learned to appreciate handmade and the value of human connection. We are in a moment where we can reset and forge a new path forward, personally, professionally and together as a global community.

Some of us, myself included, have been working through the pandemic and may not have had time to explore their creative side. I want to share the Joy of Making with you and have developed a challenge for you (and your family, neighbors, friends, etc.)

Take my upcycled sandal challenge.

July meeting where it was NO EXPERIENCE NECESdetermined to send it back to SARY! This challenge is tons of their Architectural Commitfun for the entire family. Kids tee for review with the Comunder 12 may need some adult mittee’s recommendation to help. In this challenge, you’ll be heard at the August 14th come away with a basic undermeeting of the full Commisstanding about shoe making sion. components and materials While engineers representalong with an understanding the new owner did not ing of how adhesives work. state that the church is in dan- You’ll also create your very ger of imminent collapse, they own unique pair of sandals for indicated that complete or indoor or outdoor use…a great partial collapse is likely within challenge right down to your a 10-year period. In any case, feet! there is absolutely no question that the church structure is in extremely poor condition and continues to deteriorate.

There is no assurance, but hopefully the Commission will deny the applicant’s request for demolition. If that is their decision, the question continued on page 4

Philadelphia tenants collectively organize for rent relief in the wake the coronavirus shutdown, of COVID-19 they said they had lost much

By Christopher Doyle Special to the Philadelphia Free Press

T

he development boom in Philadelphia over recent years has been mirrored by an affordable housing crisis – one in which thousands have struggled with their monthly rent, while thousands more live in fear of homelessness. Now that a global pandemic has shuttered small business and gutted paychecks, the city is readying itself for an outright onslaught of evictions. And while City Council has just passed landmark rent relief legislation, a

select number of renters have taken a more unorthodox approach – organizing tenant unions.

Grassroot tenant organizations broke ground in Philadelphia with the establishment of the Philadelphia Tenants Union in 2016. Four years later, the union is connecting

tenants who share a landlord or property manager and encouraging them to collectively organize for rent relief in the wake of COVID-19.

Alè Lomanto, who uses they/them pronouns, lives in an apartment managed by New Age Realty. With their pet care business closed by

... Upcycle challenge entries I have received stimulated me to re-think my shoe making kits. Using hair ties and placeof their pre-pandemic income. mats you can make your own Looking for support, Lomanto beach or pool sandals. The said they connected with New placemat provides the fashion Age renters from throughcontinued on page 4 out the city as a member of a grassroots union called the 4TH STREET COOKIES New Age Tenants Council.

Tuesday, “I definitely have suffered a tremendous income loss August 4 which has just snowballed into is National this insecurity around housChocolate ing,” Lomanto said. “Then I Chip Cookie looked to my peers and they’re Day... dealing with a lot of similar things.”

Page 2 The New Age Tenants Council’s demands include an inPOLITICS.....................................3 definite freeze in rent increases FUNDRAISER................................5 and the forgiveness of rent NOTES ON MUSIC..........................7 continued on page 4

CLASSIFIEDS..............................11

2 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

Bristol Riverside Theatre celebrates songs from Broadway to the movies with the return of Summer Music Fest including annual Broadway summer spectacular finale

event cost $35. After each purchase, the buyer will be sent a YouTube Link The show must go on for Tickets for the virtual prior to the performance. the 25-year-old Bucks Summer Music Fest are Tickets are available onCounty music and theatre on sale now for August line now at BRTstage.org tradition but in a new vir- and September shows! or over the phone at 215tual format to raise money The Summer Music Fest 785-0100. The Summer to keep the theatre operatwill include A Night at Music Fest is sponsored ing after COVID-19 closed the Movies on August 5, by William J. Salerno, their stage down 7 and 9. The series will Esq. and Juniper Com conclude with the grand munities with special

By Haywood Brewster finale, the Broadway thanks to The Grundy Staff Reporter Summer Spectacular on Foundation.

September 2, 4 and 6. The “We wanted to find a ristol, PA - The first date for each show way to keep a connecshow must go will be a live perfortion to our audiences,” on! From Bucks mance, and the addition- said BRT Artistic DirecCounty to the world, al two dates are recorded tor Keith Baker. “I hope Bristol Riverside Thebroadcasts from the first audiences continue to atre brings its Summer live performance. The enjoy our Summer Music Music Fest into homes, band behind all shows Fest -- this time from the vacation homes or any- will be led by BRT Artis- comforts of wherever where its audience may tic Director Keith Baker, they are. This will be an be for 2020. This popuwho also serves as the adventure. I wish I could lar, annual summertime host and Music Director have everyone in the music series is one of the for the shows. Performroom. Our performers highlights for one of the ers will feature a who’s are super talented. I can’t region’s beloved theaters. who from the local stage wait to see what they For the new season, look and from Broadway. do with this format. The for performances that can Tickets from the seshow must go on and be watched anywhere ries will help keep the we can’t thank everyone with a solid internet con- theatre’s doors open enough for their ongoing nection and a music lover and raise funds to help support of our work.” singing along behind the the theatre reopen later Summer Music Fest screen. The series starts this year. Tickets to the with A Night at the Mov-

B

Due to Covid-19, please make an appointment. Thank you!

Monday through Friday: 9am to 6pm Saturday: 9am to 5pm 3743 WALNUT STREET • UNIVERSITY CITY PHILADELPHIA, PA • 215.222.9252 WWW.JOSEPHANTHONYHAIRSALON.COM

ies runs Wednesday, August 5th at 7:00pm with a live performance, followed by pre-recorded performances on Friday, August 7th at 7:00pm and Sunday, August 9th at 3:00pm. A Night at the Movies celebrates favorite songs from Tinsel Town’s greatest musicals and movies. From Casablanca to Goldfinger, the music from the silver screen will have audiences singing along. A Night at the Movies in August will feature the musical and theatre talents of Bristol Riverside Theatre favorites Demetria Joyce Bailey, Rebecca Robbins and Sean Thomspon.

Demetria Joyce Bailey is a veteran of the Summer Music Fest and many shows at BRT and other regional stages. She last appeared at BRT in The Sunshine Boys. Rebecca Robbins was part of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera on tour and on Broadway. She last appeared on the BRT stage in Triumph of Love, where she earned raves. Sean Thompson, another BRT veteran, was Cliff in Cabaret, the last show on the BRT stage. Thompson is also a Broadway veteran, who appeared in Sunset Boulevard and played Raul in the sequel to The Phantom of the Opera.

For the grand finale, Summer Music Fest closes with the annual Broadway Summer Spectacular on Wednesday, September 2nd at 7:00pm with a live performance, followed by pre-recorded performances on Friday, September 4th at 7:00pm and Sunday, September 6th at 3:00pm. Once again, BRT will bring Broadway to Bristol in one sensational concert.

It will be an evening packed with Broadway’s best from composers like Stephen Sondheim, Richard Rodgers, and Oscar Hammerstein II. For all shows this year, Baker will host Summer Music Fest live from his own living room. Baker is a triple threat here as he also will be the conductor/band leader and play the keyboard. His band includes: Robert Garguillo (bass), Kathy Goff (percussion), Neil

Broadway Summer Spectacular 2018. Photo by Tori Repp.

Nemetz (guitar), and Claudia Pellegrini (violin).

Habib Azar, a six-time Emmy Award-winning television director, is the Broadcast Director and Editor. Hiram McLaren Becker is the Technical Director. BRT Resident Costume Designer Linda B. Stockton is the Costume Designer.

Charles S. Reece is the Master Electrician and Brett Pearson is the Audio Engineer. For performers, all solos will be sung live during the first night of each show. Any duos and trios or full cast songs will be prerecorded.

“The new virtual format for Summer Music Fest will be like watching a live show on television with pre-recorded video segments,” said incoming Co-Producing Director Ken Kaissar.

“Think Saturday Night Live -- the host is live, but then the cast may do a music video that was recorded beforehand. The concerts are designed to bring people together for a live, shared experience of beloved songs and fun spectacle. Since we can’t host a show in person this year, we wanted to create a live, shared, fun spectacle - and Keith as host will definitely help make it a memorable night for everyone!”

Keith Baker and Founding Director Susan Atkinson created the Summer Music Fest 25 years ago to offer programming in the summer at the theatre. The concerts were a way to excite the audience during a time when the theatre was dark, and each year the audience has grown and turned the concerts into one of BRT’s most popular events.

“We’re so proud to bring this music tradition back and lift everyone’s spirits,” added Baker.

“When our most recent show Cabaret was cut short at the start of the COVID-19 crisis, and theatre stages everywhere went dark, we lost a bit of joy, creativity and hope in the world. We want to bring back the sound of music to theatre lovers everywhere and keep the 25-year-old tradition alive. I hope the Summer Music Fest continues as long as we have audiences to see them.”

Tickets are on sale now for all concerts. Tickets are a $35 donation each to support Bristol Riverside Theatre. Tickets are available online at BRTstage.org or over the phone at 215-785-0100.

ABOUT BRISTOL RIVERSIDE THEATRE Since 1986, BRT has continued to bring critically acclaimed professional theatre to Bucks County. The theatre is the recipient of over 71 Barrymore Award nominations for Excellence in Theatre, given annually

by Theatre Philadelphia.

Under the direction of Artistic Director Keith Baker, Founding Director Susan D. Atkinson, and General Manager David J. Abers, the theatre serves as a cultural hub for the community. In addition to its Mainstage productions, BRT offers four concerts, including the holiday tradition An American Christmas Songbook, the new play development series America Rising, and the summer theater arts camp ArtRageous. For information, visit www. brtstage.org.

JULY 22, 2020 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • 3

D. A Krasner announces charges following dis- Streets Department updates residents on delays in trash and appearance & death of 2-year-old King Hill recycling collections due to the istrict Attorney Larry Krasner pandemic last week. Residents are on Monday an-

D

nounced Murder and related charges have been filed against a woman for her role in the disappearance and death of a North Philadelphia toddler who was reported missing earlier this month.

An investigation led

by Philadelphia Police and FBI that yielded cell phone and video evidence has concluded that Hill, who was last seen on July 7th in Strawberry Mansion, is dead.

Hill was in the custody of Tiana Parks (DOB: 8/4/1995) of Philadelphia when he was reported missing the second week of July. The Philadelphia Police Special Victims Unit urged members of the public to come forward with any information. Residents of the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood where his mother lives led searches for the missing child as well.

Parks, who was en-

T

Tiana Parks (L} Charged with Murder in death of toddler, King Hill (R.)

trusted with Hill by the former partner of his mother, was arrested on Sunday and will be arraigned today. She has been charged by the District Attorney’s Office (DAO) with Murder (F), Endangering the Welfare of Children (F2), Interference with the Custody of Children (F3), Abuse of Corpse (M2), Unsworn Falsification to Authorities (M2), False Reports to Law Enforcement Authorities (M3), Obstruction of Justice (M2), and Tampering with Evidence (M2).

“The death of King Hill is an unbearable tragedy that is compounded by Tiana Parks’ actions.

This precious baby’s family and community deserve to know how he died. They deserve the opportunity to bury and mourn him with dignity,” District Attorney Krasner said. “This child deserved so much better in life. My office will continue to work alongside the Philadelphia Police and FBI to seek justice for his death.”

The Philadelphia continued on page 8

he Streets Department has made significant progress in reducing the number of delays with collecting trash and recycling caused by increased tonnage set out curbside and decreased attendance due to COVID 19.

During the weekend, the Department supplemented collections with staff from its Highways Division and other departments the Streets Department has reduced the delays from 3 to 4 days to 1 to 2 days across the City, announced Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams. However, the Department is still experiencing delays in some areas of the City from Thursday and Friday collections.

For the week of July 20, residents should expect delays this week as crews continue to prioritize collecting materials not picked up from

asked to set their materials out at least one day later than their regular scheduled day, however, their materials may be picked up 1-2 days late depending on the volume of materials in a specific area of the City.

The volume of material can vary across the city it can be difficult to predict an exact schedule for pickup.

The Streets Department will expand the operating hours of the Sanitation Convenience centers to 7 days a week beginning Monday July 20th to allow residents to bring their trash and recycling material anytime during the week.

Drop-off centers will allow residents to dispose of their trash without delays and will help the Streets Department return to a normal collection schedule. Residents will need to show proof of residency to access continued on page 5

City provides update on Pathways to Reform, Firms selected to conduct Transformation and Reconciliation After-Action Investigation of that this group will help tion’s shared priorities: response to demonstrations ayor Jim us achieve it.”

Kenney and health, safety, quality

M

other City officials today provided an update on the City’s pathways to reform, transformation, and reconciliation. The effort is supported by a Steering Committee of diverse civic, business, and faith leaders. The committee was created last month to help the City enact a meaningful agenda for reform, reimagine public safety, and advance racial justice.

“I thank the members of the Steering Committee for partnering with our Administration on this critical work,” said Mayor Jim Kenney.

“Over the last several weeks, this group has helped me better understand how governments at all levels continue to disenfranchise Black and Brown Philadelphians. The battle for racial equity is underway, and I’m confident

The Steering Committee’s role is to advise, inform, connect, and work to eliminate race-based disparities in Philadelphia communities and promote racial and social justice across institutions. The committee is staffed by senior City staff, who support the planning and implementation of reform, transformation and reconciliation strategies developed by the Steering Committee.

The City’s internal work group that supports the committee is co-chaired

by Deputy Mayor Cynthia Figueroa, City Solicitor Marcel Pratt, and Acting Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Nefertiri Sickout.

“The areas of focus for the City’s reform, transformation and reconciliation work mirror the Kenney Administra-

education, and inclusive economic growth,” said Cynthia Figueroa, Deputy Mayor for the Office of Children and Families. “Our mission is to support the Steering Committee to ensure that its shortand long-term goals are achieved.”

“If our local government is to have any meaningful success in addressing racial inequities and injustice, it cannot invoke self-reliant, siloed approaches to problem-solving,” said City Solicitor Marcel Pratt. “I am excited to work with so many extraordinary civic, business, community, and religious leaders who have committed themselves to working side-by-side with City officials while holding our government accountable.”

continued on page 5

M

ayor Kenney Monday announced the firms selected to conduct the independent afteraction review of the City’s preparation and response to recent protests, demonstrations, police use of force, and other activities in the wake of the killing of George Floyd.

The City received responses from consulting firms and law firms. After reviewing the responses, the City decided that the best approach was to meld the subject matter expertise and data analysis approach of a consulting firm with the investigatory and legal expertise of a law firm.

As a result, the City selected both CNA, a nonprofit consulting firm, and the Philadelphia-based law firm Montgomery McCracken Walker and Rhoads, LLP, specifically the services of A. Nicole Phillips, a

partner at Montgomery McCracken, to conduct the after-action review.

About the selection, Mayor Jim Kenney said, “I’m confident that the prior knowledge and experience of CNA and Montgomery McCracken will enable the team to hit the ground running to conduct this independent AAR thoroughly and efficiently. I thank both firms for their willingness to take on this critical work, which is vital to strengthening the Philadelphia Police Department and rebuilding trust with the residents of Philadelphia.”

The City anticipates the AAR being completed before the end of the year. A final written report of the findings and recommendations will be issued and shared publicly. Preliminary findings will also be shared publicly prior to the final report being issued.

About CNA

Review UNIVERSITY

CITY

218 South 45th Street

218 South 45th Philadelphia, PA Street, 19104 Philadelphia, PA 19104 Tel (215) 222-2846 Tel (215)222-2846 Fax (215) 222-2378 Fax (215)222-2378 Email editor@pressreview.net Email newsdesk@pressreview.net editor@pressreview.net graphics@pressreview.net graphics@pressreview.net Editor & Publisher Editor Publisher Robert& Christian Robert Christian Associate Publisher Assistant Editor Claudia Christian Jack Firneno Bookkeeping Associate Publisher Alexandra Christian Claudia Christian Graphic Designers Bookkeeping Kelly Kusumoto Tina Davis Kasia Gadek Graphic Designers Contributing Writers Kasia Gadek Bob Behr Kelly Kusumoto Haywood Brewster Marc Holmes III Contributing Writers Richard Lord Dea Mallin Nicole Contosta Thom Bob Nickels Behr David HaywoodTraub Brewster Napoleon F. Kingcade Columnists Nathan Lerner JohnMallin Lane Dea Henry Lazarus Thom Nickels Tim Legnani Contributing Editor Paulina Malek Thom Nickels Columnists Correspondent Jennifer Jones Nicole JohnContosta Lane Nathaniel Lee Henry Lazarus KamSales Williams Claudia Christian Sales Claudia Social Christian Media Tim Legnani Kelly Kusumoto Social Media Kelly Kusumoto

CNA is a nonprofit research organization with a strong history of delivering high-quality, independent, and objective reviews of real-world incidents to local jurisdictions and federal agencies. CNA’s approach is to conduct independent reviews coupled with objective, data-driven analysis with deep subject matter expertise to produce valid findings and practical recommendations based on best practices.

As a leader in the field of justice system research, CNA has played an important role in building innovative and effective policing principles and practices through their research, analysis, and support to national training, and technical assistance programs. The diverse CNA continued on page 8

4 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

UPCYCLED

CHURCH

and fun, while the hair ties can be organized in a variety of groupings to make your unique 100% indoor or outdoor wearable design.

becomes what new use will the church building be given, and how will the cost of restoration be financed? The consensus is that the multi-milliondollar projected cost renders it impossible for the building to be given a residential use, while allowing a potential developer to turn a profit.

Given this reality, the range of possible new uses is limited.

In 2015, I proposed in a letter to this paper, with the backing of Save Our Sites, that the church become a River Wards Meeting and Celebration Hall / Arts and Performance Space, a hybrid use. The idea gained little traction at that time, but since then the River Wards neighborhoods of Fishtown, Kensington, Port Richmond, and Bridesburg have flourished.

These neighborhoods lack such a facility that would give the broad section of the city a sense of center and identity.

Perhaps the time has come to take up the idea.

Further, I proposed

continued from page 1

Partnering with various organizations and groups, I ‘m challenging people to scour their homes to find 2-3 materials and an adhesive that will allow them to make a simple sandal.

The sandal has 3 components, but you just might find a material that will double for 2. The Party sign in the above image can double as insole and outsole.

An example shown is a refined flat using upcycled bracelets and likely pyramid studs. The large pyramids are from a vin-

that the facility be supported by a secular, non-profit organization which would allow contributions from foundations, corporations, governmental agencies and private individuals. The value of restoring the historically and architecturally significant building, creating a valuable new use, will magnetize contributions from these sources. Bear in mind that this proposal does not preclude the church building being used for religious purposes, either by the former Catholic parishioners or members of any other denomination. By arrangement, any religious group might gather in the church sanctuary which in the restoration would retain its architectural character and important art work. As a model, one can cite the beautiful sanctuary at the Fleisher Art Memorial in South Philadelphia, which functions in just this way.

But now, it must be said: “time is running out!” As the structure continues to deteriorate and with more damaging winters coming on, is there time enough to

form a non-profit, raise money, draw up plans for restoration, and select contractors? If not, eventually there will be a point of no return, and the Department of Licenses and Inspections will order its demolition.

Thusly, I am completely cognizant of the challenges before us in the work needed to save the church. I have no illusions. Nevertheless, with all the efforts of so many parties, over so many years, and considering the incalculable value of this architectural monument, I am compelled to make one more proposal, probably my last.

Such a church building is part of our collective wealth, and everyone in our city, not just the River Wards, will benefit from its survival. With its two spires reaching to the sky over the rowhouse filled neighborhoods, the successful preservation of the St. Laurentius Church will be a gift to all Philadelphians.

ing reached out to New Age and negotiated a continued from page 1 payment plan. Among the tenants who have not until three months after negotiated a payment the full expiration of the plan, Rogers said the rent city and state shutdown delinquency rate is not orders. The group has appreciably higher than also demanded that its it was this time last year. members be negotiated Paul Cohen, Esq, who with as a collective. is General Council to The tenants’ council Hapco Philadelphia, has written to New Age (a landlord association about these demands, Serving Philadelphia’s and was told that tenInvestment & Rental Comants’ concerns could only munity,) said that people be addressed individushould only organize ally, rather than collecagainst landlords who tively. have mistreated their Speaking with the tenants.

Philadelphia Free Press, “If a landlord is not Lance Rogers, an atdoing the right thing, so torney for New Age for instance, the landlord Realty, dismissed the is not providing heat in group’s demands as the building, and tenants “ill-conceived.” As a want to organize and property manager, New go after that landlord Age contracts with many to force him to provide small landlords who, heat in the building, then Rogers said, cannot afyes, the tenant strike ford to forgive rent and makes sense,” Cohen whose permission would said. “Where you have be needed to offer rent a landlord that is doing relief. the right thing and the Rogers did say the tenants just want to take property management advantage of the situagroup was working tion by organizing, and with tenants and their not paying the rent, and landlords to offer relief trying to force the landon an individual basis lords to just lower the – with around 75 of 900 rents or do something rental households havelse when the landlord

isn’t doing something wrong, it’s just totally wrong and should not be condoned.”

Lomanto said that while “they” understand how landlords may be experiencing hardship too, “they” believed that helping vulnerable renters should take priority.

“Especially as a business owner myself, I have to look at both sides.” Lomanto said.

“But it also comes down to if folks have to choose between housing or putting foods in their mouths or their families’ mouths, and I think New Age should take that into consideration.”

Marti Cohen, who lives in a University City apartment managed by Altman Management Company, is a member of another grassroots tenant union. An event organizer, Cohen said she will be out of work indefinitely due to public health advisories against large crowds. Seeking help to negotiate with Altman, she connected with tenants at other Altman-managed properties from across the Delaware Valley to form the Alt-

continued from page 1

tage bracelet acquired on my travels. I’m pleased to give them new life.

Rethinking items, we already own is a great opportunity to practice creativity, innovation and design. We learn new skills. We try new things.

We understand how things are made. We appreciate hand made. We grow as people. And we work toward less waste.

Challenge yourself today. Take the upcycle sandal challenge through Tacony Lab Community Arts Center today.

From July 8th - 22nd

I’m partnering with the Tacony LAB Community Arts Center with another upcycle sandal challenge. (https://www.facebook. com/taconyLAB/). Follow them on Facebook to get in on the fun!

Anne Cecil is a shoemaker and designer offering hand made to order shoes, shoe making workshops, private consultations, bridal and special occasion appointments. Contact: roxannelavarox@gmail.com or Visit: www.roxannelava. com

TENANTS

David S. Traub davidstraub@verizon. net

continued on page 6

JULY 22, 2020 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • 5

Famous 4th Street Cookie Co. will offer free cookies and discounts to celebrate its most iconic Philly cookie substantially limited, tions to the Philadeldonate/ we decided to double down on online deals and try to make an even bigger impact.”

From July 27th to August 7th, The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company will offer one FREE box of six colossal chocolate chip cookies with every online purchase of $25 or more at www.famouscookies. com.

For customers in Philadelphia, enjoy $1 Famous Chocolate Chip cookies at the Reading Terminal Market and Ridge Avenue Bakery locations on August Cookies 3rd and 4th, with local Proceeds will benefit be marking its favorite owner of The Famous delivery of dollar cookPhiladelphia Ronald Mc- national food holiday 4th Street Cookie Com- ies available through Donald House with TWO full weeks of pany. “As business UberEats, Grubhub and free cookies, discounts, owners and parents, we Mercato. The Famous

By Haywood Brewster and more. are thrilled to continue 4th Street Cookie ComStaff Reporter “In past years, Naour partnership with pany will donate 100% tional Chocolate Chip the Philadelphia Ronof proceeds from chocouesday, August Cookie Day has been ald McDonald House, late chip cookie sales 4 is National such a day of fun and which helped us and from August 3rd and Chocolate Chip celebration - things so many other families 4th at Reading TermiCookie Day and The that we need could use during our darkest nal Market and Ridge Famous 4th Street more now than ever,” hours. This year, with Avenue Bakery locaCookie Company will said Tina Phillips, coour retail operations

T

TRASH

cepted at these facilities.

The Streets Departcontinued from page 3 ment will make trash collection the priority the drop-off centers with to reduce the amount either a driver’s license of material left curbside or a utility bill verifying throughout the week to their address. To find out mitigate risks to public the locations and operat- health. Therefore, recying hours of the sanitacling may take longer to tion Convenience centers collect than trash. please log on to www.

We respectfully ask philadelphiastreets.com residents to refrain from or click the link below placing additional 311 Sanitation Convenience requests for missed trash Centers. All materials set or recycling collection out for pick up are acunless their materials

have not been picked up at least four days behind regular schedule. The office has been inundated with calls related to trash and recycling collections.

We understand the public’s concern over delayed collections and thank them for their patience and cooperation as we work toward returning to a regular collection schedule during this pandemic. http://www. philadelphiastreets.com

PATHWAY

said Nefertiri Sickout, Acting Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer.

To date, the Steering Committee has met six times and set the following priorities for the first phase of its work:

Steering Committee as we embark on the chalcontinued from page 3 lenging, yet necessary, work of dismantling The first steps of the structural racism here in City’s internal work group were focused on Philadelphia. I am eager to draw viable connecestablishing the committee membership and tions to this work as the Office of Diversity, Eqinternal work group uity and Inclusion helps structure; identifying City departments to current priorities; dedevelop and implement veloping shared goals; their own racial equity and drafting an action strategies to improve plan with immediate, internal operations, short- and long-term shift organizational recommendations for culture and processes, review by the Steering and ensure more eqCommittee.

“I am grateful for the uitable outcomes and support and partnership inclusive prosperity for communities of color,“ of the Reconciliation

1. Public Safety: Adopt and implement a comprehensive police reform agenda.

2. Economy: Review the City budget, rebuild small businesses, and strengthen minority, women and disabledowned businesses continued on page 8

phia Ronald McDonald House. Additionally, 15% of all online sales from July 27th to August 7th will be donated to the house.

During the 2019 National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day celebration, The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company raised over $4,000. Donations to the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House will fund the care and support of families of seriously ill children.

This year, given the impact of COVID-19 on the operations at Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, Brian and Tina Phillips will, personally, match the funds raised by The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company up to $10,000. Anyone who wants to support the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House can donate at https:// www.philarmh.org/

About The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company: The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company was founded in 1978 with one goal: serving delicious, fresh-baked cookies made only with the finest ingredients.

Using the same recipe for their award-winning cookies for more than 40 years, owners Brian and Tina Phillips have grown the original bakery concept - born in South Philadelphia and raised in the Reading Terminal Market - into an e-commerce and wholesale distributor of the most delicious cookies money can buy. Today, Famous cookies can be found throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and shipped anywhere in the US. For more information, please visit: www.FamousCookies. com .

Celebrate our 32nd Year with us!

A FUNDRAISING APPEAL Name: Address:

Method of contribution:  Check (Please make checks out to either Philadelphia Free Press or University City Review, and mail to 218 South 45th Street, Phila., PA 19104. Phone 215.222.2374)  Credit Card Name on credit card: Address:

Credit Card Number: Expiration date: Security Code: Billing Address: If it is different from your address

You can also go to GoFundMe.com and search for “Keeping Community Papers Alive in Philadelphia”.

6 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

TENANTS

alleges that some Altman employees have been continued from page 4 working inside without the proper personal protection equipment. man Tenants Union.

The union received “We’re in an unprecedented time where peo- a response letter from ple aren’t working, there Altman and a brief folare so many people who low up email. Altman said that payment plans are jobless who aren’t able to put food on their would be available to tenants on an individual table,” Cohen said. “If basis. Late fees incurred it comes to food or rent, we’re going to buy food.” during the epidemic would be waived, except The Altman Tenants Union is demanding rent when a tenant has not made at least a partial forgiveness for April, and a 90% rent reduction payment of rent or has starting May 1, and last- not negotiated a payment plan. Altman would not, ing until Philadelphia however, be waiving has been clear of Gov. rent, with the letter citing Wolf’s shutdown order the need to pay mortgagfor 30 days. es, salaries, and taxes.

The union is also deAsserting a right to manding that Altman organize, union members address what members are calling public health are insisting that they be dealt with as a collective violations. Members have accused Altman of bargaining unit, rather hosting open houses and than as individual tenants. Further, the group in-person showings before it was permitted by is asking that any paythe shutdown order and ment plan an individual

tenant may have agreed to prior to May 1 be annulled.

An Altman regional manager, who declined to give his name, told the Philadelphia Free Press that he had neither the ability nor the authority to respond to the tenant union. Concerns about violations of social distancing and public health guidelines, he said, could be addressed only by the regional managers for the specific properties where these violations were allegedly observed.

Requests for a change in rent policy could be addressed only by higherup Altman executives.

No one from Altman’s primary office could be reached by phone and multiple messages left in their general voicemail box have not been returned. Altman President Robert Bluth has not responded to multiple requests for comment

W W W. W I S D U M B P O D C A S T. C O M MUSIC | TECHNOLOGY | PARENTHOOD | CULTURE | TRAVEL | GAMING | BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE | LOS ANGELES | NEW YORK | PHILADELPHIA | SAN ANTONIO | MEN’S HEALTH | PHOTOGRAPHY | VIDEOGRAPHY | LITERATURE | KNOWLEDGE

Two long-time friends and musicians talk about music, life, society, technology and so much more in this podcast aimed at trying to understand why we get dumber as we get wiser.

L I S T E N

O N :

sent to his email as listed on the website of the Institution of Real Estate Management.

While the union awaits a comprehensive response from Altman, members wrote in a press release that they have established a mutual relief fund for tenants who are financially struggling.

“We’re growing in numbers,” Cohen said.

“And we don’t plan on stopping.”

Another renter, who said she was put out of work by the coronavirus shutdown, joined the grassroots union called Tenants of OCF, which was formed to collectively bargain with OCF Realty. The renter, who requested anonymity in fear of retaliation, said the union helped her feel more secure in negotiating with OCF during such unprecedented times.

“I work job to job so COVID was really, really scary when it first hit,” the renter said. “That’s one of the reasons that I joined the union, because I was feeling really small and isolated and powerless, and I needed support.”

Tenants of OCF alleges that OCF has harassed tenants through wellness checks conducted without proper predication or the lease-mandated 24 hours’ notice. It also said that OCF has sent staff to photograph apartment units before such inperson real estate activity was permissible in Philadelphia under the governor’s shutdown order – and at times, according to some union members, staff arrived at apartments without properly wearing PPE. The union added that tenants have received “incessant” phone calls and emails from OCF that, members said, amount to harassment.

In an open letter published May 4, Tenants of OCF asked that their grievances be addressed, and that any late fees charged during the epidemic be waived.

OCF President, Ori Feibush, denied any wrongdoing by the company. He said phone calls to renters or their cosigners were reasonable and routine. He said that OCF’s wellness checks are well predicated and done with proper warning; and that OCF ob-

tained state waivers for virtual tour photography sessions, but in any case, such sessions did not violate any version of the governor’s shutdown order.

All staff sent to carry out these wellness checks and photography sessions, according to Feibush, are furnished with the needed personal protection equipment.

Feibush emphasized how the company was working to meet tenants’ financial needs during the epidemic. He said that around 10% of OCF renters had scheduled payment plans, and that tenants had been allowed to use their security deposits to cover rent.

Overall delinquency rates at OCF-managed properties, meanwhile, have gone down from this time last year. Of the hundreds of units OCF manages, Feibush said only two late fees had been assessed from March to May, and one was later rescinded.

Feibush did say that OCF had notified several delinquent tenants that they were at risk of receiving derogatory credit reports during the coronavirus epidemic – but said that all paid in full after being warned of their delinquency.

“The overwhelming majority of our tenants are appreciative, if not grateful, for how supportive the various properties owners and our office have been,” Feibush said.

Some nevertheless have their misgivings about how OCF has treated its tenants.

Shaun Miller is a commercial tenant and Black small business owner at an OCF-managed commercial property in his native Point Breeze. In his three years running the H. Smith Shop, a barber shop named after his grandfather, Miller hosted various community events, including local art showcases and voter registration drives. He has also been working as the president of the Point Breeze Business Association.

After his business was closed by the governor’s shutdown order, Miller began negotiating a payment plan, and said he applied for aid so he could pay rent on schedule. On May 2 however, Miller received a phone

call from Feibush informing him that his lease was not being renewed.

Miller alleged that Feibush told him the nonrenewal decision was motivated by critical comments Miller made about OCF during a Tenants of OCF virtual meeting the day before.

“I feel like I’ve been a really good tenant and I don’t feel like I’ve been getting that respect back during these really tough times…so I shared all that on the [Tenants of OCF] call,” Miller said. “I get a call from [Feibush] [the next morning], telling me that he will not be renewing my lease.”

“I said can you let me know what that reasoning is, and his response was ‘because of the things you said about me and my company on that [tenants union] call.’”

Feibush denied retaliating against Miller for comments he made at the meeting, calling the allegation “sensational.”

He said that Miller had an outstanding rent balance dating to before the epidemic and had not agreed to available renewal options by a notice date specified in his lease.

Miller noted that he had been in a monthlong negotiation with OCF and his landlord about renewal options when Feibush called on May 2.

The outstanding rent, Miller said, was the result of a billing error.

Staff from OCF underbilled Miller for two years and Miller consequently underpaid for two years. The billing error was discovered and assessed only on Feb. 6 – the day after Feibush and Miller had an unrelated argument on Feb. 5 about zoning and development strategies in Point Breeze. Feibush said the argument prompted him to review the terms of Miller’s lease.

Feibush added that he found Miller to be abrasive towards him and his staff, and that OCF recommended non-renewal to Miller’s landlord also in part because of that acrimonious relationship.

“He had a lease and he couldn’t have been more antagonistic to the people that work in our office here, so when they’re speaking to the owner and the owner

continued on page 9

JULY 22, 2020 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • 7

A

journey to the Smithsonian Gardens with their horticulturist Janet Draper seems like a soothing idea on a very hot day. On July 23 at noon, she’ll share her knowledge of flowering plants and will offer such tutorials as creating way stations for monarch butterflies. gardens.si.edu  That same evening at 7:30 p.m., enjoy standup comedy and readings hosted by Mary Cella, the founder of the humor site Little Old Lady Comedy. greenlightbookstore.com/event  Black Dance Stories is a new series offering storytelling while giving artists a chance to meet and chat. Created by performer/ producer/dance writer Charmaine Warren with dancers Kimani Fowlin and Nicholas Hall, the series features two guests per episode. On July 23, Rennie Harris and J. Bouey take over, followed on July 30 by Kyle Marshall, Okwui Okpokwasili, 6 p.m. every Thursday live on YouTube. More information at @blackdancestories on Instagram. Free, donations welcome.  Another Black choreographer, Jeremy McQueen, founder of the Black Iris Project, presents a 20-minute work, “Madina”, a tribute to Nelson Mandela. Available through July 24 at BronxNet.tv Details at blackirisproject.org  How about an afternoon at the opera at 4 p.m. on July 24? This is a rare chance to see Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” performed at the Teatro de la Maestranza in Seville, Spain. operavision.eu  Local opera performed live is quite a rarity in our city just now but Amici Opera continues its season on July 26 at 3 p.m. with a complete rarity, “Fosca” by

Gomes, sung in Italian by young operatic voices to piano accompaniment. Social distancing is guaranteed, hand sanitizer will be available, bring your own mask.

Repeated on Aug. 1 at 4 p.m., both at Redeemer UMC, 1128 Cotman Ave. 215-224-0257.  As of this writing, many of our local and nearby museums and similar attractions are already welcoming visitors, among them the Brandywine River Art Museum, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Longwood Gardens, the American Swedish Historical Museum, Mutter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Adventure Aquarium , Independence Seaport Museum, Mural Arts Philadelphia Mural Mile Center City Walking Tour, the Barnes Foundation and the Woodmere Art Museum both as of July 25, and the Penn Museum as of July 28.

A quick click on google will provide addresses where special rules can be investigated, in some cases buying tickets in advance and other new formalities, and all require masks.  “Love From BAM” is an invitation to explore the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s archival dance footage in this new series highlighting seven performances of the Bill T. Jones/ Arnie Zane Co. from 1984 to 1994, described as “stylish, mournful, sentimental in spots, and timely once again”.

Details at BAM.org/ lovefrombam.  Our city’s Tempesta di Mare performs Telemann’s “Don Quixote Suite” on July 26, hosted by co-founders Gwyn Roberts and Richard Stone who will also talk about Baroque music, bowing, continuo and other facets. Details at info@tempestadimare.

org  The Rosenbach Museum and Library offers Virtual Courses at Home, an extended series of weekly discussions. On July 22, the topic is Harry Potter each Wed. for several weeks, and on Thursday, July 23, James Joyce’s “Ulysses” will be analyzed in the weeks ahead. 6 p.m. Other new series begin in Aug. Details on all these and other information at enews@rosenbach.org  The Pennsylvania Ballet continues to remind is of its presence and even more so of its current absence, but all is not lost. Every weekday at 1 p.m. on Instagram Live they offer classes taught by Artistic Director Angel Corella and company members, as well as PB “Stay at Home” of performance clips, interviews, fitness tips and other fun videos on You Tube.  The Institute of Contemporary Art presents “Open Video Call 2020” with Lino Kino, a series of videos of eight artists.

Mondays at noon from July 27 to Sept. 16, each segment devoted to one of the eight, followed on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for discussions with the same artist, live captioned, with members of Lino Kino. icaphila. org  Theatre Philadelphia is a resource for numerous local arts groups.

Among them are: (Mostly)Virtual Festival from Shakespeare Delaware now through Aug. 22 on Facebook; Society XI on Line from 11th Hour Theatre Co. offering three Quarantine Cabarets, three Musical Salons, through Sept. 19; a Digital Festival O from Opera Phila. featuring two major hits from the previous season, “We Shall Not Be Moved” involving teenagers squatting in the wreckage of the burned Osage Ave. homes, and “Sky on Swings”, a sympathetic look into Alzheimer’s starring two operatic greats, our city’s own Marietta Simpson and renowned diva Frederica von Stade. Free through

Aug. 21 on WHYY-TV12.

Donations welcome. Details on these attractions and more at info@theatrephiladelphia.org  The Metropolitan Opera’s beloved free series of HD videos from their current and archival collections is shown every evening at 7:30 p.m. and on view until 6:30 p.m. the next day when

a new opera awaits.

Coming up: July 22, Verdi’s “Macbeth” with Curtis alumnus bass John Relyea, conducted

by James Levine; July 23, Gounod’s “Romeo et Juliette” starring Anna Netrebko and Roberto Alagna; July 24, Verdi’s “Falstaff”, a golden oldie from 1992 starring Mirella Freni, Barbara Bon-

ney and Marilyn Horne; July 25, Strauss’ “Der Rosenkavalier” featuring Renee Fleming’s final Met performance as the Marschallin; July 26, Puccini’s “La Fanciulla del West” with dashing tenor Jonas Kauffman. Donations happily accepted. metopera.org 

8 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

KING HILL

PATHWAY

continue to do so as this case progresses through continued from page 3 the criminal legal system. continued from page 5 Survivors of homicide enterprises (M/W/ CARES (Crisis Assiswho are in need of suptance, Response, and En- port may contact the DSBEs). gagement for Survivors) CARES team at 215-686- 3. Community Engageteam at the DAO has ment and Reconcili8019 or philacares@phila. been providing support gov. ation Process: Work to Hill’s family and will collaboratively with the City and commuAFTER-ACTION training. nity partners to foster About A. Nicole Philconversations becontinued from page 3 lips and Montgomery tween institutions and McCracken project team has experiresidents to address A. Nicole Phillips is a ence managing similar structural racism and partner in the Montgomreviews for many other ery McCracken’s White racial inequity issues jurisdictions. The expein Philadelphia.

Collar and Government rienced analysts bring Investigations practice 4. Health: Address COdecades of experience group. Ms. Phillips is a VID-19 racial and ecoin law enforcement and former federal and local nomic disparities. expertise in conducting prosecutor with a wide objective reviews of sen- range of investigatory See Table 1 on right sitive incidents involvexperience and has faing crowd control and miliarity with investigatIn addition to acting the use of force. ing the Philadelphia PoCNA has led and on the recommendalice Department (PPD). supported after-action tions of the Steering Montgomery Mcreviews of the planCracken is a full-service Committee, the Adminning and response to istration will continue law firm with offices special events that have in Pennsylvania, New to pursue the plans laid drawn mass protests and York, New Jersey and out in Executive Order demonstrations across Delaware. The firm 1-20, which Mayor Kenthe nation. In addition, represents leading busi- ney signed in January. members of the project nesses, multinational The Executive Order team led the Philacorporations, nonprofit delphia Collaborative organizations and indi- announced the Administration’s citywide Reform Project bringviduals across a wide ing numerous reforms Racial Equity Strategy, range of industries in to the PPD surroundcomplex litigation mat- its commitment to eming officer-involved bedding racial equity ters, significant corposhootings. As a result as an explicit governrate transactions and of these reform efforts, challenging disputes. ing principle—a lens the number of officerFor more information all City departments involved shootings in about Montgomery Mc- and agencies will use to Philadelphia dramatiCracken or its practice assess how their operacally decreased. This areas, please visit the tions, including policies Collaborative Reform firm’s website at www.

Project provides CNA mmwr.com or on Twitter and procedures, impact all Philadelphians, inwith knowledge of PPD at @MMWR_Law. operations, policies, cluding people of color. practices, directives, and Under the Executive Order, all City departments will be required, by the end of 2023, to conduct Racial Equity Assessments and create Racial Equity Action Plans. Departments will complete these assess2410 Delancey ments and action plans 2413 Spruce 2133 Green in a phased approach, 279 S 5th beginning with the first 113 Naudain 624 Kenilworth cohort of departments 1420 Locust in 2020.

2330 Pine 304 Cypress The Steering Com1919 Chestnut mittee’s short- and 1617 Lombard 2509 Pine long-term objectives 2330 St Albans will be released next 1702 Panama 1839 Addison month. Members of the 1134 Waverly 507 S 24th public can sign up to 1632 Bainbridge receive updates from 506 Pine St 426 S Taney the Steering Committee.

925 S 2nd For more information 609 Lombard 1932 Bainbridge about the City’s reform, 2609 Aspen St transformation, and recPam Rosser Thistle, REALTOR® onciliation work, visit Cell/text: 215-432-7790 phila.gov/reformingMain: 215-546-0550 philadelphia.

The Harper at Rittenhouse Square

Priority

Progress of as of July 20, 2020

Public Safety

Responded to the police reform proposal presented by elected officials to the Administration. The response by the Administration is the City’s Police Reform Agenda. The City will work closely with the Steering Committee on implementation of the reform agenda.

Mayor Kenney and Commissioner Outlaw sent an update on the Administration’s police reform efforts to Council President Clarke as requested by various members of the City Council on July 13, 2020.

City initiated an independent after-action reviewof the recent protest and other activity.

City Solicitor and Deputy Mayor of Labor co-authored a letter to the state legislature with recommended amendments to Act 111.

Mayor Kenney and Commissioner Outlaw issued a public apology for using tear gas to disperse protesters on I-676 and placed a moratorium on the use of tear gas and other nonlethal munitionsfor dispersal and control of crowds.

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw released Philadelphia Police Department Crime Prevention and Violence Reduction Action Plan, the roadmap for safer communities in the city.

Economy

Budget Review: Increased City investments in the community and decreased direct funding in the Police Department.

• The FY21 Budget passed by City Council on 6/25 reduced the PPD budget by $33 million and the Fire Department budget by $5.8 million from originally proposed FY21 levels.

• Restored some funding to the Housing Trust Fund, workforce development, adult education, the Cultural Fund, the African American Museum, and the Office of Immigrant Affairs.

Small business and M/W/DSBE business rebuilding: • Provided $4.4 million in funding to support business owners affected by the recent protest activity and unrest ($1.4 million in initial funding for the Restore and Reopen Program and $3 million Restart PHL Loan Fund.)

Community

Hosted community engagement sessions led by City offices and local non-profits to address work associated with reconciliation and police reform. Examples include the Philadelphia Youth Commission, PCCY, the School District of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and the Urban Affairs Coalition.

• Created a Community Engagement subcommittee to address the reconciliation conversations needed with the community.

The launch of the community engagement is starting with faith leaders through community conversations entitled Law, Order and God. Employee Engagement Process: • Decided to engage the services of a consultant firm to initiate the conversation about racism and social injustice with the City’s workforce.

• Presented on Steering Committee progress and Citywide Racial Equity Strategy at an internal Equitable Engagement Collaborative session where it was discussed how City’s departments could contribute to close racial disparities in all communities.

Public Landmarks: Review all public landmarks and street names.

• Removed the Rizzo Statue.

• Initiated a public process for removal of the Christopher Columbus Statue.

Working with Mural Arts to recognize the voices of the protestors through a mural to depict images from the protest. This mural will be featured on MSB. The working title is “Crown.”

Public Holiday: • Designated Juneteenth as an official City holiday for the first time on June 19, 2020. In order to make this permanent, additional steps must be taken, including Council legislation and a re-negotiation of all City holidays with the municipal unions. The administration will work to ensure Juneteenth continues to be an official City holiday.

Health

The Steering Committee will consult with PDPH on the development of its Racial Equity Response Plan to ensure more equitable responses in programs and services to underserved communities.

Expanded testing sites to address the virus impact disparities in Black and Latino communities.

Sold

112 S. 19th Street, Ste. 200 Philadelphia, PA 19103 pam.thistle@foxroach.com

JULY 22, 2020 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • 9

TENANTS continued from page 6

is saying ‘what do you recommend doing,’ of course all of that factors into it and we would all be insane to think otherwise,” Feibush said. “If somebody is nice to other people, they’re going to get more.”

Miller said all of his conversations with OCF employees had been cordial. He said his only negative interactions with OCF were two he had with Feibush – specifically, the Feb. 5 argument about Point Breeze development and the May 2 phone call about the nonrenewal of lease.

Miller said he ultimately believes Feibush retaliated against him for their clash over neighborhood development strategies, and for the comments Miller made at the tenant union meeting.

“It’s clearly all personal,” Miller said.

Tenants of OCF has cited Miller’s experience as an example of why tenants have a need to organize. “[Miller’s situation] was an instance of a lease renewal being intentionally denied and it does seem to me that the most aggressive responses [from OCF] are coming for people who they suspect are organized or they know to be organizing,” said one member of Tenants of OCF who also requested anonymity in fear of retaliation.

Feibush allegedly said that Tenants of OCF was airing these complaints and attacking his company, because its members harbor an anti-capitalist, political agenda.

He singled out one union member in particular as proof of the group’s ulterior motives.

According to Feibush, the member was a renter at an OCF-managed property and had been treated well by OCF staff.

That member’s failure to mention those positive interactions in social media posts about OCF, Feibush said, evinces the group is working in bad faith.

Feibush also said he has accused several members of Tenants of OCF of agitating for nonpayment of rent and told those members such activity was illegal. He said he had video of a mem-

ber advocating for nonpayment but declined to provide said video to the Philadelphia Free Press.

The union member who spoke about Miller also disputed Feibush’s characterization of Tenants of OCF. He said that the union has never advocated for tenants to not pay rent, and that Feibush is making that accusation to discredit tenant organizing.

He also said that Tenants of OCF was forthcoming about its goals to level the balance of power between renters and landlords.

“The basic reason for the organization is to stand up for tenants and, through organizing, give tenants a bigger hand in the negotiation of the tenant-landlord relationship,” he said.

“And if you want to call that political, you can, I wouldn’t refute that, but I wouldn’t say that it’s hidden and I wouldn’t say that it’s nefarious either.”

“It’s fairly understood that’s what a union is for.”

He said this idea of organizing is based on collective action, and so renters’ individual experiences should not disqualify them from taking part in a tenants’ union. “[Feibush’s] argument, that if someone was treated well, then that would refute the need for union, reflects the individualism he expects of tenants,” he said. “If you’re part of an organization of tenants and you know that other people are not getting great treatment, even if you yourself have good treatment, you would still keep organizing.”

Christina Gesualdi, a member of the Philadelphia Tenants Union, said the idea of tenant organizing could help renters shoulder the burdens of COVID-19 – and shape the landscape of housing in a post-pandemic Philadelphia.

“Tenants councils and organized tenants have been taking care of protecting each other,” Gesualdi said. “After [the epidemic], I think tenants’ councils can remain and stay vital and that will only help people exercise their rights to put the pressure where it needs to be.”

For some renters, help is sorely needed.

Discover the Unknown in Fairmount Park This Summer and Fall Guided hikes, meditation, and yoga: Inperson Conservancy member events will return later this summer at a reduced capacity and ith Philadelin accordance with all phia parks COVID-19 guidelines. experiencing Events include guided record usage in recent hikes, meditation, and months, Fairmount Park yoga. Member events Conservancy is encourare free for Conservancy aging park-goers to members and $15 for safely explore the lessernon-members. View known gems of East and Photo courtesy of Fairmount Park Conservancy. upcoming events and West Fairmount Park locations here: https:// ing this treasure.” vancy merchandise. this summer and fall. myphillypark.org/ Beginning late July, Park Hubs in FairThe non-profit chamevents-calendar/ Fairmount Park Conmount Park: To enhance pion for Philadelphia These events will be servancy has developed the visitor experience parks is offering a varicapped at 25 attendees additional ways to enthis summer, the Conser- or less. All participants ety of ways to discover courage park-goers to vancy has set up “Park all that the 2,050-acre will be required to wear explore East and West Hubs” in Fairmount park offers, from a new a face mask, stay six Fairmount Park on their Park: six spots through- feet apart from others, free scavenger hunt to own or with members of out the park with wayguided yoga and hikes and stay home if they or their household: finding signage that to solo park cleanups. members of their houseVirtual Fairmount serve as helpful jumping hold are showing any In addition, the ConPark Summer Scavoff points for exploring servancy has created a symptoms of COVID-19. enger Hunt: Discover the park. new digital guide, highFairmount Park Conthe fascinating facts From these locations, lighting trails, historic servancy’s membership park-goers can start or landmarks, and natural and stories behind the program helps ensure historic houses, natural end their exploration of that Philadelphia’s parks areas in Fairmount Park. areas, and public art various trails, natural The Fairmount Park are enhanced for genof Fairmount Park areas, and historic struc- erations to come and Digital Guide, launchby participating in a tures throughout the ing today, will allow offers free year round free virtual Fairmount park. users to find less travevents like guided Park Scavenger Hunt, eled gems all on their hikes, trail runs, yoga launching Monday, July • Lemon Hill Mansion: classes, and bike rides as own. Find the guide at 1 Lemon Hill Drive 27 and running until myphillypark.org. well as great discounts • Mount Pleasant Man- throughout the park.

September 7.

Scavenger “We’ve seen over the sion: 3800 Mount hunters can participate past few months just Learn more about the Pleasant Drive by downloading the how essential parks are Conservancy’s memfree GooseChase app to • Woodford Mansion: for our physical and bership program here: 2300 North 33rd Street https://myphillypark. mental wellbeing,” said their smartphone and • Concourse Lake: Maura McCarthy, Ph.D., completing each misorg/support/become-aSouth Concourse sion at their own pace Executive Director of member/ Drive and Belmont (search for “Fairmount Fairmount Park ConLove Your Park Solo Avenue servancy. “This summer Park Summer ScavenCleanups: Love Your • Centennial District: and fall Fairmount Park ger Hunt”). New misPark Solo Cleanups enLansdowne Drive and courage all park users sions will be released Conservancy wants to Black Road each week. The top highlight many of the to safely clean up trash • Chamounix Drive: participants will receive trails, history, and natuand litter individually or Chamounix Drive and with members of their ral areas that Fairmount prizes, including gift South Chamounix Park offers and provide cards to local, minorityhousehold as they enjoy Drive owned businesses and new ways of experiencPhilly parks this sumFairmount Park Consercontinued on page 10

Fairmount Park Conservancy encourages parkgoers to safely explore with virtual scavenger hunts, solo cleanups, and more

W

In Philadelphia, roughly a quarter of all residents live below the poverty line – and more than half of renters are considered cost burdened, meaning they pay more than 30% of their income on housing.

The recent spike in joblessness, reflected by the more than 2.2 million unemployment claims filed in Pennsylvania, is likely to add to these troubles.

On June 19, City Council passed the Emergency Housing Protection Act in an effort to keep COVID-19 from exacerbating Philadelphia’s epidemic housing insecurity. The

act introduces a series of eviction-diversion measures for tenants affected by the coronavirus, strengthens penalties for illegal evictions, and extends the city’s eviction moratorium to Aug. 31.

(The First Judicial District of Pennsylvania has since, on its own accord, extended the city’s eviction moratorium through Sept. 2.)

Mayor Jim Kenney signed the EHPA into law on July 1. Hapco Philadelphia, which represents hundreds of Philadelphia landlords, has filed a lawsuit to overturn the legislation.

All City Self Storage Free Month Rent Open 7 Days Great Rates

215-471-1002

5500 Sansom Street (at 55th Street)

www.selfstorage.com

10 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

Burlesque Community hosts All-POC Fundraiser for Black Lives Matter Starring an all-POC cast, including the #1 burlesque performer in the world

go cabaret legend” and currently ranked as the #1 burlesque figure in the world.

An 11-year veteran of hilly’s cabaret burlesque, Jeez Loueez is performers may also the creator of Jeezy’s be off the stage Juke Joint, a long-runtemporarily, but this ning revue paying hommonth they are united for a cause and ready to age to Black burlesque and entertainment for the sparkle. On Friday, July last decade.

24, a dozen entertainers The full cast includes: of color will dazzle in a virtual showcase of bur- Icon Ebony Fierce, Caresse Deville, Deej lesque, drag, and other Nutz, Selene Rose, Mia performances to raise money for racial justice. Bombshell, Vinchelle, One hundred percent Rita Brujeria, Mxtress Lilith, Foxworth Vorn, of proceeds will beneHarley Honey, and hostfit Black Lives Matter ed by poet and sex eduPhilly, a thriving local cator Jennifer Eden. chapter of the national Philadelphia nightlife movement. Tickets are has been hit hard by the pay-what-you-wish effects of COVID-19, and available through with many shifting to Eventbrite. virtual shows and livesAudiences can look treaming to continue forward to seeing exceptional local talents in their work while bars burlesque, pole arts, bel- and venues are closed. lydance, drag, and more. Amid national converThe all-POC lineup is led sations about race and justice, local artists and by guest headliner Jeez Loueez — a multi-facet- event producers recently hosted a community ed artist, educator, and town hall focused on event producer who’s been hailed as a “Chica- inclusion and justice for

P

#1 burlesque figure in the world. Jeez Loueez

Black and Brown performers.

This event is the first dedicated fundraiser to come from those discussions, with more to come. The production is volunteer run, with all performers fairly compensated in advance. All tips and ticket sales will go directly to BLM Philly.

Established in February of 2015, the BLM Philly chapter works to bring justice, healing,

self-determination, and freedom to Black communities. The chapter has launched a number of initiatives including letter campaigns, protests and marches, vigils, forums, and Black Joy and Healing circles. This event is officially sanctioned by BLM Philly.

Please visit http://bit. ly/BurlyBLM for tickets and additional information.

FAIRMOUNT continued from page 9

mer. Volunteers can go the extra mile by pledging to track their work online. Love Your Park Solo cleanups aim to help keep Philly parks clean this summer, and offer Philadelphians a rewarding way to give back to these important public spaces. Visit loveyourpark.org for more volunteer opportunities in Philly parks this summer.

Volunteers who have their own cleanup supplies can opt to make a donation to the Love Your Park program to cover the cost of a free cleanup kit for others.

A $35 donation covers the cost of a cleanup kit, which includes trash bags, a Fairmount Park Conservancy bandana, and gloves (while supplies last). A $75 donation will cover the cost of a cleanup kit plus a $50-level membership to the Conservancy. Donate here: https://secure. qgiv.com/for/2lysolcle.

Love Your Park is a collaborative program managed by Fairmount Park Conservancy and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation.

Event updates and schedules will be shared via the Conservancy’s weekly e-newsletter at https://myphillypark. org/newsletter and via social media at facebook. com/fairmountparkconservancy and @ myphillypark on Instagram and Twitter.

About Fairmount Park Spanning 2,050 acres, Fairmount Park is the largest park in Philadelphia. In the late 19th

century, the City of Philadelphia began to purchase land and properties around the Schuylkill River to create Fairmount Park in order to protect the City’s water supply and provide the residents of Philadelphia with a place for outdoor activities. This was in keeping with William Penn’s original vision for Philadelphia as a “green country town.” Today, Fairmount Park sandwiches the Schuylkill River and includes West Fairmount Park (1,400 acres) and East Fairmount Park (650 acres) with plenty to explore, including more than 50 miles of designated trails, 16 creeks, 18 historic buildings, and 43 sculptures.

Fairmount Park is owned by the City of Philadelphia and managed by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation.

Fairmount Park Conservancy champions Fairmount Park and all of Philadelphia’s parks in partnership with PPR all year long.

Fairmount Park Conservancy exists to champion Philadelphia’s parks. We lead capital projects and historic preservation efforts, foster neighborhood park stewardship, attract and leverage investments, and develop innovative programs throughout the 10,200 acres that include Fairmount Park and more than 100 neighborhood parks around the city. For more information, please visit myphillypark.org, join us at facebook.com/ fairmountparkconservancy, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ myphillypark.

MY SHELTER PETS ARE MY BEST FRIENDS

OLIVIA MUNN WITH CHANCE AND FRANKIE: ADOPTED 2014 AND 2016.

They’re a little bit of a lot of things, but they’re all pure love.

THESHELTERPETPROJECT.ORG

JULY 22, 2020 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • 11 403-LEGAL

750-AUCTION

Lung Cancer?

TO ADVERTISE IN THE CLASSIFIEDS CALL 215.222.2846 104-HELP WANTED

501- BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY ORIENTED FREELANCE WRITERS

ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information.

To cover local stories and community meetings in Center City and University City.

Please send resume & cover letter to Bob Christian, Editor at editor@pressreview.net

Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or the military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed.

Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.

606-MEDICAL SUPPLIES FREE!

Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)

Walk-In Tubs

WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500 ✔ Backed by American Standard’s 140 years of experience ✔ Ultra low entry for easy entering & exiting ✔ Patented Quick Drain® Technology ✔ Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard

NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 866-951-7214.

✔ 44 Hydrotherapy jets for an invigorating massage Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

877-381-3271

502- EDUCATION

HELP WANTED Sales Associate

We are looking forward to the days when we will all be able to come out of quarantine and are back to work!

We are looking for an exceptional sales person to sell ad space for both our print and digital publications.

You’ll work, primarily in Center City 3 to 5 days a week visiting shops, restaurants and businesses helping them regain customers by advertising in-print and online, and promoting them on websites. You’ll work for the Philadelphia Free Press and the University City Review, two door-to-door and online community newspapers.

We pay the best commission in the City. We are looking for special people, honest. Friendly, hard working. If you have an interest, please email at rchristian@pressreview.net.

READER ADVISORY: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home.

Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers.

Also, beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

100 – HELP WANTED 104-GENERAL HOW TO EARN A Six-Figure Income Online. FREE TRAINING! Sign Up Now! www.imjetsets.com

400-FINANCIAL-LEGAL 401-FINANCIAL WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC TIMESHARE CANCELLATION Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844-909-3339 BOY SCOUT COMPENSATION FUND - Anyone that was inappropriately touched by a Scout leader deserves justice and financial compensation! Victims may

be eligible for a significant cash settlement. Time to file is limited.

Call Now! 833-729-0164

402-INSURANCE DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-308-2834 www.dental50plus.com/cadnet #6258 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 procedures.

Real dental insurance. NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details!

1-888-623-3036 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258

403-LEGAL APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855-498-6323! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)

500-PROFESSIONAL 500-BUSINESS SERVICES BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877-626-2213

Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/network

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 888-449-1713 (M-F 8am6pm ET) AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechanic training. Financial Aid for qualified students - Career placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888686-1704 TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888572-6790. (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

508-HOME SERVICES HUGHESNET Satellite Internet 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data.

FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254.

DIRECTV - Switch and Save! $39.99/month. Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand.

FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade.

Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! Call 1-855-781-1565 COMPOSITE DECKING, 30 Truck Loads available, 20 Colors $1.79 Linear Foot. Fiberon White Railing 6’ $110, 8’ $140 Slate Rd Supply 717-445-5222 CALL EMPIRE TODAY® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855-404-2366 ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today.

15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-995-2490 AT&T INTERNET. Starting at $40/ month w/12-mo agmt. Includes 1 TB of data per month. Get More For Your High-Speed Internet Thing. Ask us how to bundle and SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. Call us today 1-888-796-8850.

BUILDING MATERIALS/MISC. FOR SALE. Metal Roofing, Siding for houses, barns, sheds. Close outs, returns, seconds, overruns, etc. at Discount Prices. Huge inventory in stock. Slate Rd Supply 717-445-5222

606-MEDICAL SUPPLIES

NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! CALL US TODAY FOR

A FREE ESTIMATE

15

%

OFF

YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE*

AND!

1-855-995-2490

10

%

OFF

SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

+

5

%

OFF

TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS!**

Promo Number: 285 Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST *For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. ** Offer valid at estimate only. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #107836585501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H

DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month. Call Today for $100 Gift Card! Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855-837-9146 (some restrictions apply).

EARTHLINK HIGH SPEED INTERNET. As Low As $14.95/ month (for the first 3 months.)

Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-520-7938

TWO GREAT NEW OFFERS FROM AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T’s Buy one, Give One. While supplies last! CALL 1-866565-8452 or www.freephonesnow. com//cadnet

600-MARKETPLACE

PROTECT YOUR HOME with home security monitored by ADT. Starting at $27.99/mo. Call now to get a Free equipment bundle including: Keypad, motion sensor, wireless door and windows sensors. Call 833-719-1073 CROSS COUNTRY MOVING, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844452-1706 DIRECTV NOW. No Satellite Needed. $40/month. 65 Channels. Stream Breaking News, Live Events, Sports & On Demand Titles. No Annual Contract. No Commitment. CALL 1-866-825-6523 ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today.

15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855402-0373 DISH TV $59.99 FOR 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply.

1-855-270-5098.

605-GENERAL NEED SOME CASH? Sell us your unwanted gold, jewelry, watches & diamonds. Call GOLD GEEK 1-844-209-9872 or visit www.

GetGoldGeek.com/nani BBB A+ Rated. Request your 100% FREE, no risk, no strings attached appraisal kit. Call today! !! OLD GUITARS WANTED!!

GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277 STAY IN YOUR HOME LONGER with an American Standard WalkIn Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-4813969 or visit www.walkintubquote. com/national

606-MEDICAL SUPPLIES ONLY THE HIGHEST QUALITY CBD products from AceWellness!

We guarantee highest quality, most competitive pricing on CBD products. Softgels, Oils, Skincare, Vape & more. Coupon Code: PRINT20 1-855-681-3113 VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping!

100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515

ALL CITY SELF STORAGE 5500 Sansom St. Philadelphia, PA 19139

215-417-1002

UNIT#

NAME

UNIT#

NAME

005 CURTIS WILLIAMS 539 JOAN BOANES 063 HOWARD WILKS 593 MALCOM MATHIS 071 HOWARD WILKS 598 JASMINE GRAVES 093 DEMETRIUS FUNG 603 KATHERINE FELDER 255 RASHEEDAH AHMOD 727 TIFFANY BARFIELD 257 FELISHIA JEFFERS 734 RONALD WILLIAMS 312 VIRDELL KIDD 912 CHRISTOPHER JONES 322 ARCHIE POLLARD 913 TELLEE JONES 338 SHAWLYN WAY 943 KELLY PRICE 439 ERNEST CLYMER 951 HOWARD WILKS 448 CANDIE WILSON 962 KAREMA COOLEY 498 KARRAH HOLMES 966 ALICIA BLYE 506 PAULINE BORKON 969 RICHARD WATSON 508 LESLIE WILLIAMS 972 BEN FISHER 510 LYNETTE BROWN 995 MONICA AHMAD 523 TANQUA ROSS 1003 CRAIG DIXSON JR 529 YAHMISHA CUSTIS 1009 ALEXIS ALSTON 535 DANA HUTCHINS Notice of Public Auction on July 28, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. at All City Self Storage, 5500 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, 19139 to satisfy landlord’s lien.

Property contained in the following units will be sold to the highest bidder to satisfy the owner’s lien for rent under The Pennsylvania Self Storage Facility Act (Act of 1982, P.L., 1404,No. 325). Units contain personal and household goods. The public is invited to attend. Sale is subject to adjournment.

Stay in your home longer with an AMERICAN STANDARD WALKIN BATHTUB. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855534-6198 ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 877-929-9587 VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150. FREE shipping. Money back guaranteed! 1-844-596-4376 PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit!

Call 888-609-2189 STAY IN YOUR HOME LONGER with an American Standard WalkIn Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-5346198

608-WANTED TO BUY WANTS TO PURCHASE MINERALS and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

609- AUTOS FOR SALE DONATE YOUR CAR TO VETERANS TODAY! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

620-AUTOS WANTED CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2018! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-9851806

Running or Not. Competitive Offer!

Free Towing! We’re Nationwide!

Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

GET CASH for your used or junk car today. We buy all cars, trucks, and SUVs. Free pick up. Call 888368-1016.

700-PUBLIC NOTICE 730- PUBLIC NOTICE ROUNDUP 10 BILLION DOLLAR weed killer cancer settlement.

You or your loved one may still be able to file a claim. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-5355727 WERE YOU OR A LOVED ONE DIAGNOSED with Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Fallopian Tube Cancer or Peritoneal Cancer in 2010 or later and used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder regularly in the genital area previous to diagnosis? If so, you may be entitled to compensation. Call 877-761-9069.

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER? You may qualify for a substantial cash award - even with smoking history. NO obligation!

We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 833-518-0768

900-REAL ESTATE 952- HOUSE FOR SALE SELLING A FARM OR HOUSE? Advertise it here and neighboring publications. We can help you.

Contact MACnet MEDIA @ 800450-6631 or visit our site at MACnetOnline.com

5100 Spruce St. Large three-story mixed-use building.

Office first floor.

Two large apts 2nd & 3rd floors.

Separate electric and gas utilities. $350,000.

Westside Realty.

215-747-1497.

[CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2019! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-3681016 SELL YOUR ANTIQUE OR CLASSIC CAR. Advertise with us. You choose where you want to advertise. 800-450-6631 visit macnetonline.com for details.

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

2002 and Newer! Any Condition.

Call the classified dept. at

215.222.2846

12 • PHILLYFREEPRESS.COM • UCREVIEW.COM • JULY 22, 2020

America’s first socially-distanced Christmas open-air eatery debuts in Philadelphia to spread light and hope during challenging times

T

is the most wonderful time of year in Philadelphia - during one of the most challenging years in modern history. Craft Concepts Group and owner Teddy Sourias will debut America’s first socially distanced Christmas open-air restaurant and eatery this coming weekend taking over a portion of 12th Street in Midtown Village. Tinsel in July debuted last Friday, July 17, 2020 in front of Finn McCools (118 S. 12th), Tinsel (116 S. 12th), the former Midtown and Penn Six (114 S. 12th) and Go Popcorn (a neighbor of CCG’s at 114 S. 12th) with socially-distanced cafe seating, frozen and ice cold Christmas cocktails, boozy Grinch pops, a brand new eatery, holiday decor and festive tunes. Patrons can enjoy food and drink while surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights, sparkling bows, red festive santa hats, whimsical elves, shiny bells,

Photos submitted by Aversa P.R.

illuminated candles, colorful ribbons, oversized candy, decked-out gifts boxes, Christmas trees, and holiday palm trees. Full table service for parties of four to six will be available by reservation only outside Finn McCools and Tinsel.

Seating for parties of two that want to enjoy their Luku Ma treats will be available in front of 114 S. 12th Street. Tinsel, Finn McCools and Luku Ma will offer food and drink for pick-up and to go as well. Hours will run from 3:00pm to 10:00pm

Staying home saves lives.

For more information, visit

coronavirus.gov

Monday to Friday, and noon to 10:00pm on Saturday and Sunday.

For reservations for the festive Finn McCools seating with table service and a full dinner menu, call 215-923-3090.

All guests must wear a mask when not seated.

All tables are socially distanced at least six feet apart. Staff will follow all local, state and national health and safety recommendations including disposal menus, the use of a menu QR code, wiping down of all surfaces, wearing masks and other protocols in place for the safety of not just the patrons but the staff as well.

For more about Tinsel in July, please visit TinselPhilly on Instagram.

“Tinsel in July was designed to bring light, hope and joy to Philadelphia residents during these darker times,” said Sourias. “We wanted to remind everyone that better days are ahead and we all need to continue to work hard, mask up and see some light at the end of the tunnel. While our bars are closed, outdoor seating is the only safe and healthy option right now in Philadelphia. We wanted to add a joyful and positive spin to what outdoor dining means.

We recently opened up our other restaurants and brought back our staff. This project entirely driven by their ideas and initiative - and it was a great way for them to stay positive, stay strong and find some personal joy and light right now.”

Sourias added, “Origi-

nally we were going to operate for twelve days in honor of the twelve days of Christmas, but instead we are now going to be open all summer long until Labor Day - or until the interest dies down. We are also pleased to announce we will feed hospital workers with a portion of sales from our popular Canned Goods cocktail.

Merry Christmas (in July) and we hope to see your smile behind your masks this summer.”

Craft Concepts Group employees thought of the idea to take outdoor seating to a fun new level - and to bring an uplifting project to 12th Street with the debut of Tinsel in July.

The stretch between Finn McCools Ale House (118 S. 12th), Tinsel (116 S. 12th) and the former Midtown Restaurant (114 S. 12th) into Philadelphia’s “Tinsel Town.”

Even neighbor Go Popcorn has joined the festive fun at 112 S. 12th with decorations and coming-soon holiday popcorns (stay tuned for dates).

FInn McCools, the oldest venue of Craft Concepts Group, has a more transitional Christmas theme with beautiful wreaths, vintage sleds from White’s own childhood, and Santa inspired garden gnomes. Tinsel property is inspired by a Dr. Seuss Christmas with a winter cottage facade. Santa’s Elf’s can be found playing around on the cottage’s fence. The seating area is lined with 7’-0” tall Christmas palm trees and 8 north poles decorated with ribbon, garland, and bells. White Christmas trees are scattered throughout. Luka Ma, the new sweet tooth venue serving desserts, has a bright and colorful design. It is decorated with oversized Christmas lights and over 25 oversized Christmas candies throughout. Santa’s Elf’s have switched gears from wrapping presents to making delicious desserts for all to enjoy.

Photos submitted by Aversa P.R.

Background music will be a collection of familiar and quirky holiday tunes curated by well-known DJ Robert Drake.

For food, patrons can enjoy a full dinner menu of Philadelphia and bar favorites outside of Finn McCools, including the well-known Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls.

Outside of the 114 S. 12th Street property, look

Photos submitted by Aversa P.R.

for the grand debut of Luka Ma - featuring traditional Greek Loukoumades - little fluffy sweet honey balls, deep fried to golden perfection, and topped with your choice of eight different toppings. These are inspired by the authentic Greek holiday desserts inspired

by Sourias’ own childhood with his big Greek family. This new sweet shop will also feature dessert empanadas, fried oreos and other tasty Christmas (and Christ-

mas in July) inspired treats.

Reservations are required for all full service dinner tables to ensure time limits, social distancing and to avoid any lines and ques.For reservations for these full service dinner tables call Finn’s at 215-923-3090.

Seating at Luka Ma is first come, first serve.

“Don’t leave home

for Tinsel in July without your mask,” said Sourias. “Masks are 100% required and the new normal for Tinsel in July and all of our properties.

Also, remember, we are here all summer long, so make your plans for July and August - and come when you are ready. We hope to lift up your spirits and have you leave with a big smize.”

For more about Tinsel in July and Luka Ma, visit TinselPhilly on Instagram.