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tonytshirts.com AMERICAN IDOLS Live in Diverse Neighborhoods

WE STAND by Robert L. Woodard BY OUR WORK The Wynnefield Barber

ith all the negative news going calls. The first was Aretha Franklin and the sec- tel : 917-300-8343 on in the City of Brotherly Love, ond was David Ruffin, lead singer ofThe Tempta- [email protected] it was very refreshing to see the tions. I was totally shocked that The Queen of www.tonytshirts.com positive energy that entered this Soul called Woodard’s Barbershop. I was equally www.dirtymug.com city via the American Idol tour. shocked by the second caller. WAmericans came together as neighbors and en- Georgie Woods was like a father to many en- joyed the entertainment at the Tower Theatre on tertainers. He was a great problem-solver. He had August 14th. My nephew, Michael J. Woodard, a way of bringing people together to resolve their was part of the tour and I was proud to see him on differences. Hence, our police and community must stage giving an outstanding performance. work as a team to become problem-solvers. This The Tower Theatre was packed with diverse will help them aid each other in resolving dilemmas cultures from around the world. Performers that permeate neighborhoods throughout our na- on this tour included Maddie Poppe, this year’s tion. The number of shootings and killings are at an American Idol winner; Caleb Lee Hutchinson, all-time high. Communities along with police na- Gabby Barrett, Michael J. Woodard, Cade tionally must collaborate to make our world a better Foehner, Catie Turner and Season 8 winner Kris place. Captain Javier Rodriguez of the 25TH Po- Allen. Each one of these performers made it an lice District is a team worker and practices ways to outstanding evening. Some of the best entertain- bring police and community together. His Precinct ers in the world started at the Tower Theatre. recently sponsored a Community Appreciation The World Renowned “Queen of Soul” Miss gathering to remind the neighborhood that police Aretha Franklin was one of them. I send my con- do care. Hats off to Captain Rodriguez for helping dolences to her family for their loss. us build a better future by bringing police officers I can recall Mr. Georgie Woods, “The Guy and the community together. with The Goods,” discussing the highlights of We, as Philadelphians, have to share our the excellent performances held at the Tower and American Idols in every neighborhood. Our city Uptown Theatres, where he introduced many encompasses people from a multitude of cultures rising stars. A prominent Philly DJ, Georgie and ethnicities who, together, can help solve our Woods was well respected in the music industry national and local problems. Remember, the goal HAPPY for showcasing new talent. is to share our differences and gain more un- Aretha Franklin was one of those performers derstanding about one another. I appreciate the and became one of the most well-known super- entertainers of the world-renowned American Idol WINDOWS stars in the world. I remember getting a phone organization. As a service, they share their love of call at my barbershop for Mr. Woods while I was entertainment, which brings all cultures together cutting his hair. I asked who was calling and she as “One Human Race.” I believe that we as in- • 2-inch wood • Pleated Shades said, ‘Aretha.’ Georgie took the call. He seemed dividuals can all become American Idols within • Shutters • Roman Shades a little upset when he hung up. His last words our communities. That way, we as neighbors can • Verticals • Drapes to the young lady, in a stern voice, were, ‘You learn to view “Race” as singular – the human race tell him to call me, now!’ A few minutes later, a – and not plural. Take the “RACE Test” today for • Mini Blinds • Valances second call came in for Mr. Woods and again, I a better way at www.BarbershopTalkHFD.org. asked, ‘Who’s calling?’ He said ‘David.’ Georgie Remember, neighbors come in all shades, cul- Call Eileen 215.465.7525 took the receiver and responded quickly with a tures, shapes and sizes. Being a “Good Neighbor” DISCOUNT PRICE WITH INSTALLATION few very strong words. After his haircut, Georgie is the greatest title and service that any human shared with me who was on the line on the two being can have. PRH

88 | ROWHOME MAGAZINE | October / November / December 2018 gohomephilly.com