Councilman Squilla Speaks

Home , Clark Park, PSFS Building, Reading Viaduct

January/February 2016 The Newsletter of The Society Hill Civic Association

SOCIETYHILL Reporter www.societyhillcivic.org Councilman Squilla Speaks

he Society Hill Civic Association (SHCA) members interested in Society Hill issues are T invites all neighbors to the General Member - welcome at our monthly Board Meeting, held at ship Meeting on January 20 to hear Councilman 5:45 p.m. in the Great Court Conference Room. Mark Squilla speak to our community. Take this excellent opportunity to present him with your Resolve to Become Involved questions and concerns. We wish you and your family a healthy, happy Mark Squilla has represented City Council’s First and prosperous 2016! We suggest that you add to District, which includes Society Hill, since 2011. your list of resolutions this year the commitment Councilman Squilla’s experience, as a community to become more involved in our special neighbor- organizer, public servant, husband and father, hood. A great way to do this is through member- has taught him that strong families and engaged ship and committee participation in the Society Councilman Mark Squilla neighborhoods are the key to Philadelphia’s future. Hill Civic Association. SHCA provides countless He believes that bringing together the best of services that enhance your property value, as each community’s traditions and new beginnings, well as your quality of life. Your neighborhood block by block and group by group, is crucial to is cleaner, safer and more beautiful because of Philadelphia’s success as it grows and evolves. our efforts. Hop on board this year by either The councilman has shown his commitment to renewing your membership or joining SHCA this belief by actively taking part in efforts like for the first time. Visit www.societyhill.org to the move toward revitalizing the Reading Viaduct find out more about your civic association. and the planning work of the Central Delaware Advisory Group. SOME THINGS CHANGE… Remember, everyone is welcome to attend our General Membership Meeting. Simply arrive and some things stay the same. at Pennsylvania Hospital’s Zubrow Auditorium, A&P, the bankrupt located on the first floor inside the main entrance parent company at 8th Street near Spruce, before 7 p.m. All SHCA of SuperFresh Markets, recently sold its 5th Street store to Acme. WEDNESDAY MARK YOUR CALENDAR Much has stayed in place, like January manager John Society Hill Civic Association Meetings Kirlin and many Wednesday, January 20, 2016 of the staff. However, accord- Pennsylvania Hospital ing to Mr. Kirlin, 20 8th and Spruce Streets a lot is different. There’s now a 5:45 p.m. Board of Directors Meeting much larger selec- Pennsylvania Great Court Conference Room tion of meats and All SHCA members are welcome. produce, both organic and conventional. Prices, in general, tend to be lower. And there is a significant 7:00 p.m. General Membership Meeting shift in customer service — the manager has been Pennsylvania Hospital Zubrow Auditorium given full leeway to honor customer requests, even All neighborhood residents are invited to attend. if it means running to Whole Foods for a particular item. It’s important that the Society Hill community Speaker: Councilman Mark Squilla supports our 5th Street Acme to show how vital it Topic: Q&A is to our overall well being. PAGE 2 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

NUSA SOCIETYHILL 2014 & 2015 Award Reporter Winner

Managing Editor Press Release Liaison Sandra Rothman c/o Matt DeJulio Columnists [email protected] Marilyn Appel Advertising Manager Claire Batten Lenore Hardy Jane Biberman [email protected] Matt DeJulio Julie Featherman Submission Deadlines Martha Levine March/April Issue Jim Murphy Advertising: February 1 Keri White Editorial: February 1 Contributors Society Hill Bob Kramer Civic Association Jonathan Rubin P. O. Box 63503 Linda Witt Philadelphia, PA 19147 Graphic Design Tel. 215-629-1288 Judy Lamirand Website Parallel Design, Inc. Find past issues in color

[email protected] at www.societyhillcivic.org. ww designgroupllc.com

267.872.8814 Submissions If you have news that would be of interest to Society Hillers, email Sandra Rothman at [email protected]. Materials must be submitted in writing and include the name of a contact person. Edited submissions will be considered for publication if space permits. Letters to the Editor must be signed, with contact information. SHCA Mission Statement parallel The aims and purposes of SHCA are to promote the improvement of the Society Hill area of Philadelphia, including its cultural, educational and civic activities, and the preservation design and restoration of its historic buildings; to represent the residents of Society Hill in matters affecting the City of Philadel - Find our p hia generally and Society Hill in particular; and to interpret designs the value and significance of Society Hill to the public. online.

SHCA Board Officers and Directors

BeyondTheLibertyBell.org President Northeast Quadrant Parallel-Design.com Robert Curley 2016 Lisa Unger First Vice President 2017 George Kelley Kim Williams 2018 Robert Kramer 215-476-4040 Second Vice President Northwest Quadrant Martha Levine 2016 Amy DeMarco Recording Secretary 2017 Norman Lieberman 2018 Mary Tracy Logos Diane Stein Treasurer Southeast Quadrant Websites Marc Feldman 2016 Jeff Berry Banners Newsletters Directors-at-Large 2017 Barbara Gelman Georgine Atacan, George 2018 Gail Hauptfuhrer Books The Award-Winning Dowdall, Diane Harrison, Southwest Quadrant Sissie Lipton, Fred Manfred, Brochures Society Hill 2016 Daniel Horowitz Mary Purcell, Heather 2017 Carolyn Ambler Walter Invitations ! Steiner, Vijay Verma Reporter 2018 Martha Moore JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By BoB Curley, SHCA PreSident Let’s Hope 2016 is a Good One

appy New Year! As John Lennon and Yoko Front Street Parking Lot HOno said in 1971, “Let’s hope it’s a good At its October meeting, the Board of Directors one without any fear.” approved the execution of a long-term lease between SHCA and the Interstate Land Manage - We thank South Street Headhouse District ment Corporation for a parking lot on Front director Mike Harris for the update about Street between Pine and South Streets. SHCA the Headhouse Plaza Project at our November executed a five-year lease, renewable for an General Membership Meeting, as well as Ronn additional 10 years. The parking lot opened on Shaffer and Fishtown Artist Roger Wing for their November 1 and there are still parking leases fascinating discussion about early Society Hill available on a monthly basis. If you are interested Bob Curley, SHCA president resident Reverend George Duffield and the in obtaining one, please contact Matt DeJulio, new sculpture of him now standing in the who can put you in touch with the managers Bob Curley has Old Pine Street graveyard. been a board member of the lot at Park America. for six years, during It was great talking with the folks who came to which he co-coordinated Electric Car Parking Permits SHCA’s Holiday Social on December 2. Thanks Clean-Up Day and to Mary Purcell for organizing the event and Councilman Squilla arranged for a meeting participated with Tree Tenders. He is Bridget Foy’s for providing its facilities. between SHCA and the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) to discuss its electric vehicle a partner in the law Thanks also to all the block coordinators and firm of O’Donoghue permitting process. PPA is revising its regula- & O’Donoghue LLP. neighbors who participated in Fall Clean-Up Day. tions as a result, and they should be approved The event was a great success, and my thanks by the time you read this. There will be a one-to- to Jeff Berry, Dan Horowitz and Wally Wing three-car limit for dedicated parking spaces on for helping out. each block, depending on the size of the block. Since the last Reporter, SHCA has been involved This will include dedicated parking spaces for in several important community matters, including: electric cars and people with disabilities. Streets with only one side of parking are expected to have 5th Street Developments a lower permit limit when the new regulations In mid-November, Leo Addimando, Managing are finalized. As with the reserved residential Partner of Alterra, contacted me and requested parking spaces for people with disabilities, the a meeting. SHCA supports having a supermarket electric car permit will terminate when the permit stay at the location and insists that the developer holder moves or no longer drives an electric car. present a great design plan that is aesthetically and architecturally appropriate for the site. For In closing, I want to thank all the board members more information, please see the larger article for their help in 2015 and ask every neighbor — on page 5 discussing 5th Street developments. from Front to 8th Streets and between Lombard and Walnut — to give some thought to how you Comcast/Verizon Agreement can contribute to making this community a Councilman Mark Squilla helped SHCA with better place. Then, get out and do it! Electric car charging its request that Comcast and Verizon negotiate station a joint right-of-way sharing agreement. Such an Correction We regret the error on page 5 of the agreement would allow Verizon to piggyback on November/December issue, where State Representative Comcast’s current right-of-way network already Michael O’Brien was inadvertently referred to as in place in the Society Hill neighborhood. A joint “Michael Brian.” We appreciate the funding the shredding service on Clean-Up Day by Representative O’Brien’s agreement would avoid the need to build out a office, and we appreciate his and his staff’s presence duplicate cable right-of-way when Verizon finally at the event for two-and-a-half hours. We are grateful for offers its FiOS service to neighborhood resi- all that Representative O’Brien does for Society Hill and dents. The companies continue their discussions. regret any confusion that the mistake may have caused.

In This Issue… Page 5 Page 13 Page 17 Page 19 Committee Update: Three Places to Volunteer: Exploring the City: On Our Shelf: Head House 5th Street Development Give Time and See Change The PSFS Building Books Celebrates 10 Years Page 11 Page 14 Page 18 Page 26 Zoning & Historic Neighbors Raise a Glass to Food Trust and Headhouse Nifty Neighbors: Meet Preservation the New Year Square Celebrate Union Carole & Sam Karsch PAGE 4 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

For Students Who Always Ask “Why?”— AN ENDLESS WORLD OF “WOW”

friends-select.org

LANDSCAPE & HARDSCAPE SERVICES

s 0ATIOS 7ALKWAYS $RIVEWAYS s 3TONE SLATE "RICK 0AVERS s 3TONE7ALLS 2ETAINING 7ALLS &ENCING s 0ERGOLAS !RBORS 4RELLISES 10% OFF s 0ONDS &IRE0ITS )NGROUND0OOL$ECKS Total Food Check s 3HRUB4REE )NSTALLATIONS 2EMOVALS with mention of this ad! 2EPLANTING s 3EEDING 3ODDING “One of the City’s Best Italian Restaurants” — Citysearch s ,ARGEAND3MALL9ARDS “Best Veal Parmigiana 7 years in a row” — In the Spotlight #ALLFORFREEESTIMATE 42%% 636 South Street • Philadelphia, PA 19147 www.mcfarlandtree.com 215.627.9000 • www.lafourno.com JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 5

COMMITTEE UPDATES 5th Street Development

s the community is aware, Alterra Property instructions were given that no negotiations Sign up to receive A Group (Alterra) has a contract to purchase were to take place. Also attending were Robert updates from the 5th the site at 309 S. 5th Street (now Acme Market) Kramer, SHCA Legal Chair and 5th Street Street Development and the retail center across the street at 314-26 Development Committee Chairperson, and Committee in SHCA’s S. 5th Street. Lorna Katz-Lawson, Zoning and Historic weekly email blasts. Preservation Committee (ZHP) Chairperson. Contact Matt DeJulio Zoning Use Permit and Appeal Status Richard DeMarco, the Civic Association’s at 215-629-1288 or Alterra still has not purchased the locations, outside counsel, had no objection. A short [email protected]. though it obtained a Zoning Use Permit on summary of the meeting follows: August 27 from Philadelphia Licenses and Inspections (L&I). SHCA has filed an appeal • Addimando requested that SHCA sponsor a of the Permit; the hearing date has been set general community meeting, where Alterra for January 13. The appeal hearing will be could present its current development ideas. open to the public. The SHCA Representatives affirmed that the Civic Association would not sponsor such a The Permit was granted “as of right.” L&I meeting. Addimando stated that Alterra may determined that the description of the project hold its own meeting, without SHCA’s in the Permit complied with the requirements participation, and advertise by flyers. of the site’s CMX-2 zoning classification. No variances were requested. The project • Addimando suggested that SHCA facilitating described in the Plans filed with the Application Alterra’s interface would better serve the and Permit (Permit Package) is for an addition community. The SHCA Representatives stated to the existing building, having a footprint of that if Alterra wants to present a design or 5,172 square feet, attached to the north side of variances, it should follow the established legal the existing building, and an addition of a second process, which requires that design plans be and third floor above the new north side addition filed with the Historical Commission. Alterra and the existing building. The proposed use should then present the filed plans to ZHP for described in the Permit Package was “retail comment at an open meeting. If Alterra wants food store (as existing), and pharmacy, sundries to present variances, they should file a variance and convenience store, with multi-family plan with L&I, appeal the denial to the ZBA housing with 36 units on the 2nd and 3rd and then present the variance plan to the floors.” There are also eight accessory parking Zoning and Historic Preservation Committee spaces for cars. The Plans show the pharmacy, at an open meeting. sundries and convenience store in the north • Addimando stated that Alterra intends to side addition and a supermarket in the existing purchase the 5th Street properties and has ground floor space. SHCA’s appeal is based on not been deterred by community opposition. technical deficiencies in the Permit Package. He also stated that he would proceed with an Community Meeting “as of right” plan if he is unable to obtain vari- SHCA held a community meeting on October ances. Addimando noted that if Alterra proceeded 28. The Permit was discussed, the appeal with an “as of right plan,” the community would explained and a plan to fight for a full-service have less input than if it negotiated variances. supermarket was announced. SHCA also • Addimando stated that Alterra was considering announced its intent to keep the density of any condominiums, with 40 underground parking re-development low and preserve the character spaces, instead of apartments. He also stated and scale of Society Hill. A copy of the power that Alterra would guarantee a supermarket if it point presentation is available for interested could negotiate some variances. Alterra did not readers at societyhillcivic.org. identify the variances that it wanted in exchange Preliminary Meeting: Development for a guarantee of a supermarket nor did it offer In mid-November, Leo Addimando, Managing how it would make the guarantee enforceable. Partner of Alterra, contacted SHCA President Alterra stated that it does not intend to build Bob Curley, requesting a meeting, which the until after the Acme Market’s current lease Board approved as a way to fact-find. Express expires in approximately three years. The continued on page 7 PAGE 6 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

Get a Perk for Supporting SHCA Current SHCA members may request a 12- page Society Hill List of Contractors containing services such as general contracting, plumb- ing, electrical, exterior/ interior painting and much more. These contractors have all been highly recommended by your neighbors. If you want a copy, the list will be mailed to you — sorry, not available online. This offer is for current 2014 members only. Contact us at [email protected] or 215-629-0727.

R.CHOBERT PAINTING ResidentialResidential | CCommercialommercial | InteriorInterior | EExteriorxterior

www.rchobertpainting.comchober.rwww om.ctingtpain om CreatingtingeaCr Beauty Sinceince 1967

Michael Chobert 215-389-7788 Fax 215-755-6655 choberr [email protected] 641 Reed Street, Phila. PAPA 19147 JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 7 5th Street Development continued from page 5

SHCA Representatives reiterated that they would SHCA with the aid of Councilman Mark not discuss variances and further stated that the Squilla, accomplished this acceleration. community was opposed to any variances. The remapping process — Philadelphia 2035 Note — is part of a master plan for the 18 districts The 5th Street Development Committee into which the City has been divided. Society wishes to note that Alterra’s statement that it Hill is part of the Central District. The pur- is considering condominiums with underground pose of the remapping as stated in the Retail complex at 314-26 parking does not obligate Alterra to provide for Philadelphia 2035 master plan is to correct the South 5th Street. condominiums or underground parking. Even zoning classification of properties to better align when Alterra files building plans, which it has them to their current uses and to further the not done, Alterra would be able to amend or uses and goals of the Philadelphia 2035 master change the plans prior to building as long as plan, as stated in each district’s plan. it is legally permitted under the CMX-2 zoning. By accelerating Society Hill’s remapping, Alterra’s current thoughts on condos or apart- SHCA’s goal is to protect and strengthen the ments could change several times as the market unique characteristics of our historic neighbor- changes over the next three years. Regardless hood — characteristics that lie at the heart of of Alterra’s stated timing for development, they Philadelphia’s cherished heritage and identity, could change the timing and develop the site as recognized by the city’s recent designation earlier. Any unsold condominiums could also as a World Heritage City (see page 23). be switched to rental apartments. Any final agreement reached with the developer would The SHCA, through its Zoning and Historic have to be recorded as an easement to obtain Preservation Committee, will work with the enforceable rights. In addition, when construc- Planning Commission to effect a remapping tion starts, the supermarket will need to be that meets the Community’s goals. The 5th closed during construction, probably for a year Street Development Committee will be providing or more. Upon completion, without a recorded support and input to ZHP, and we will engage the easement, there is no certainty that the super- community as well in the process. Based on the market will be replaced. Even with an easement, remapping of other communities, the process the property could remain vacant if Alterra is may take one year or longer. not able to obtain a supermarket tenant. Fundraising The plan attached to Alterra’s Zoning Use Permit Martha Levine, SHCA Vice President and increases lot coverage, as permitted under its fundraising chairperson for the 5th Street current CMX-2 zoning, and would do away with Development Committee, has undertaken the off-street loading for large trucks and the large responsibility of raising funds to be used regard- trash compactor. A supermarket without the ing the Committee’s initiatives. Please fill out the existing off-street loading area for the trash form on page 9 and add your name to the list of compactor and parking would negatively impact residents who support SHCA’s efforts to protect the traffic on 5th Street. On-street loading would the unique character of our community. block the street, delete street parking spaces and make South 5th Street even more congested. Martha has raised approximately $13,000 and has developed an internet portal for donations. Acme Market For online contributions, go to www.societyhill- Bob Curley has contacted Acme Market to civic.org, click on 5th Street Development and offer them the community’s support. SHCA then DONATION LINK. Get a tax deduction would like to develop programs that encourage bydonating to the tax-deductible 5th Street the community to shop at Acme and let Alterra Development Campaign. Our goal is to raise know that the community is insisting on a full- $75,000 to pay for legal services to support the service supermarket at 5th Street. If we want appeal of the Alterra’s Zoning Use Permit and to retain Acme Market, it is essential for us oppose all variances for the 5th Street super - to patronize it. market site. In addition, SHCA will retain profes- Remapping Project sional planning services to aid in the remapping The Planning Commission recently notified and rezoning, to revise incorrect zoning classifi- SHCA that the zoning remapping process for cations and to create a new protective zoning Society Hill would be moved up in priority. overlay for the entire Society Hill District. PAGE 8 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

215. 886. 6111 | Oreland, Pa Mike Duffy 215. 725. 3637 | Philadelphia, Pa Certified Arborist PD-1766A 215. 572. 6937 | Fax www.libertytreecare.com JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 9

CONTRIBUTION FORM 5th Street Development Committee Campaign

he Society Hill Civic Association has initiated $______Legal Services: To support the appeal of T a campaign to fund the 5th Street Development Alterra’s zoning/use permit; to oppose any Committee’s efforts to get the most appropriate design variance that may be requested for a building and use of the commercial properties on 5th Street, proposed to be constructed at the 5th Street consistent with the history and character of Society supermarket site; and to appear before the Hill. Our goal is to raise $75,000. Historical Commission. Please indicate to the right where you wish to direct your $______Professional Planner Services: To aid in the donation and write the amount in the space provided. zoning remapping and creation of a new protective overlay for the Society Hill District. Remapping Help preserve the unique historic character of our corrects the zoning classifications of some community while protecting the value of our homes. properties to better align them to current uses. If achieving this goal is important to you as a resident $______Unrestricted Donation: Please allocate my of Society Hill, please consider a tax-deductible donation. donation for the above purposes as needed.

Total Amount: ______$100 ______$200 ______$500 ______$1000 ______Other $ ______Check one: ______You may publish my name in the list of donors. ______Do not publish my name. Make checks payable to: Society Hill Preservation Foundation* (SHPF) Please fill out this form, clip and mail it to: SHCA, P. O. Box 63503, Philadelphia, PA 19147. For online contributions, go to www.societyhillcivic.org, click on 5th Street Development and then DONATION LINK. Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Email Phone *The Society Hill Preservation Foundation is SHCA’s 501(c)(3) non-profit which allows tax-deductible contributions to be made for restricted uses such as those outlined here. For more information, contact Martha Levine at [email protected] or 215-629-0727. Thanks to all who have already made a generous contribution.

5th Street Development Campaign Donors We thank all of the generous contributors to this campaign, listed below. Our goal is to raise $75,000. As of December 21, we have raised $16,300. Champions @ $1,000 Roger & Lucy Cox Supporters @ $100-$150 Richard & Judith Hurtig Friends @ Under $100 Anonymous Elizabeth Doolan Phil Alperson & Mary Hawkesworth George Koch & Santo DiDonato Judee Bavaria & Manja Lyssy & Andrea & Alexander Ehrlich Marilyn & Harry Appel Donald & Vicki Kramer Bernie Borislow Theodore Schiffman Laurence & Brenda Gavin Jonathan Auerbach & Karoline Adler Eric & Sandy Kruger Walker & Sheila Brown Dr. Robert Gill Jean Blumberg Peter & Kathy Linneman Anonymous Benefactors @ $500 Anonymous Dale Brazale Helene Lipton Anonymous Anonymous Christine Jacobs Anonymous Frank A. Marzullo & Jane Cooper & William Shoff Lee & Geoffrey Dennis Dr. William & Nancy Jantsch Edwin & Patricia Coyle Marcos Urdaneta George & Jean Dowdall Janis & Stephen Goodman Richard Ketterer & Debra Maher Anonymous Jack & Kathleen Mathis Rebecca Fierman Charles & Lucinda Landreth David DeVoe & Laura Lane DeVoe Stephen W. Miller Victoria Kirkham Nancy Lanham Martha Levine & Howard Sedran Steven & Anne Docimo Jim & Marsha Moss Ann & William W. Ku Robert & Leslie LaRocca Madeleine Miller Pat Dowden James & Camille Orman Iris Levine Bruce & Joyce Lesser David Pierson & Frederick & Karen Edelstein Andrew Rosenbach & Brooke Smith Nicholas & Sally Piccone Bunny & JB Levyn Barrie Trimingham John Erickson & Harry Zalesnik Diane Rossheim Melissa & Brian Pinheiro Rosanne Loesch & Yves Quintin Joseph M. Waldron Carolyn N. & Joseph M. Evans Jr. Linda Sacks Sam & Laura Sadtler Anonymous Carolyn Walter & Bruce Bryen Dr. Julian & Sunny Feldman Manoj & Monika Shirodkar Michael Scolamiero Ned & Nancy Scharff Anonymous Linda Skale Ruth Sine Advocates @ $200-$250 Larry & Ann Spector Carol Fixman & Stephen Kobrin William & Serena Skwersky Henry & Beth Sommer Cordelia Biddle & Steve Zettler Richard & Margaret Ullman Carol & Phil Greco Anonymous Jan Stephano Garrett Brown & Ellen Shire Valerie & Roger Wood Gail Hauptfuhrer Joan & Thomas Tropp Pamela Sinkler Todd Ronald & Claudia Carabelli Peter & Gail Hearn George & Carol Vinci Dot & Jerry Yablin Robert & Rochelle Hirsch Susan Dudkin PAGE 10 SOCIETYHILL Reporter JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 11

ZONING AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION REPORT

By lornA KAtz-lAwSon Recent Issues

410 South Front Street also create districts for facilities or uses desired Prolonged negotiations between Toll Brothers by the community, but not yet available in it. and neighbors whose properties abut the site Each community has its own identity and continue as of this date. In the meantime, other needs to establish its own focus and goals. This neighbors notified ZHP of the lack of trees on occurs through a process of creative thinking Front Street, one of the proposed improvements and idea-testing, using hard tools such as that encouraged SHCA to support the develop- statistics, economic analysis and legal precedent, er’s request for zoning variances. Additionally, to name a few. balcony lighting proposed in the Community Agreement, to be shielded so that light does not During the process, which provides frequent spill into neighboring homes, was installed with- and regular public input, there will be continuous out any shielding devices. SHCA has been active revision and refinement — ending with a clear in pressing for remediation of these oversights blueprint for the future. With a plan in hand, and continues to meet with the neighbors and negotiations with the PCPC can begin. the developer. To begin the process of developing a neighbor- Crosstown Coalition hood plan, a steering group must be created SHCA continues to work with the Crosstown to organize a schedule of activities and target Coalition, which includes civic groups from dates for deliverables and meetings, to develop across Philadelphia, on zoning legislation. supporting committees of community The influence of the Coalition has been less stakeholders and to interface with the than satisfactory from the point of view of the city and Society Hill residents. member civic associations, because the Coalition The ZHP chair is charged with forming is brought into the discussion process too late. the steering group, not to exceed 10 people To change this arrangement the Coalition has according to the advice of Ian Litwin, planner asked our City Council representatives to revise assigned by PCPC to Society Hill. To date, SHCA the protocols for notification and scheduling, president Bob Curley, legal committee chair Bob so that civic associations can participate at the Kramer, ZHP chair Lorna Katz-Lawson and long- conception stage of new legislation, meet with term neighbor and local architect planner Mark the various departments as they write and review Keener have filled four steering group positions. bills, get timely receipt of written bills and allow adequate response time to review amendments Mark will help guide the steering group toward before the bills are called at Council for vote. a focus for the plan, making the process more 2035 Re-Mapping and Development efficient and effective. He will also assist in of a Neighborhood Plan drafting a document requesting a proposal for a consultant planner, and possibly also applying At SHCA’s November board meeting, the ZHP for funding. chair gave a report on the first steps in the development of a neighborhood plan. This plan will be the product of community input over a significant period of time. For some communities this might be a year or two, for others four or more years. The neighborhood plan is a tool for discussion and for selling our ideas to the Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC). This body will ultimately control the legislation that must be passed to implement the plan. The plan will be used as a basis for re-mapping properties that are incorrectly classified. These could be properties not compatible with the character of the community, or those being used inappropriately (such as industrially classified properties used as residences.) The plan can PAGE 12 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

Jan Stephano ABR,CSR,CNE Thank you for your sales and listings in 2015. Looking forward to a great 2016 for all of us.

215.922.3600 x219 [email protected] www.janstephano.com JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 13

THREE PLACES TO VOLUNTEER

By Julie FeAtHermAn Give Your Time and See Change e leave a season that promotes generosity Philadelphia high schools. Several of its Wand giving. It’s even more important as graduates have been able to obtain full-time a new year begins to keep our heads in the employment through the program, which “giving-game.” Charities report that there is a allowed them to leave shelter life behind post-holiday drop in donations and volunteerism, permanently. Executive director and Penn law yet the need for assistance never lessens. professor Penny Ellison says, “We are always looking for people who want to supervise our These three local organizations deserve special youth at weekly shelter volunteer sessions attention. Their focus and core services are or to run any type of fundraiser for us.” Visit at-risk youth, families and animal welfare. www.hand2paw.org for more information. All are in need of volunteers. Peter’s Place is the first family grief-support The Bridge Way School is Philadelphia’s only Hand2Paw Volunteer agency of its kind to serve the Philadelphia area. recovery high school for students who have Its mission is to facilitate peer support groups at been treated for substance abuse and addiction. its center in nearby Radnor, create and oversee “Getting sober is hard. It’s one of the hardest school-based support groups and provide post- things a person can do. Asking a teenager to do intervention services. it is asking for a miracle. We get to see miracles every day at Bridge Way,” says founder and head “Peter’s Place is dedicated to ensuring that of school, Rebecca Bonner. Bonner is asking for our services are accessible to all grieving volunteers who can share their talents by coming children and families. No one should have in to do a class or two on composing music, to grieve alone,” says executive director June working with clay or making jewelry. Expertise Bretz. The programs are offered at no cost to in writing resumes, doing practice interviews, thousands of people, because of the community financial planning, website maintenance and support of members and dedicated volunteers. event planning are also needed. If interested, Contact them if you’d like to help with outreach, go to www.thebridgewayschool.org. administrative support, professional services or fundraising. Peter’s Place also provides extensive Hand2Paw is a six-year-old non-profit that training if you’d like to volunteer as a grief facili- connects Philadelphia’s homeless teenagers and tator. More information can be found the city’s animal shelters in a unique way. These at www.petersplaceonline.org. young adults become volunteers in the animal shelters with the goal of empowering them to As the saying goes, “Time changes everything.” take charge of their lives, learn real marketable Give your time and see what changes. skills and pursue fulfilling employment through working with animals. Hand2Paw also partners Julie Featherman with the Achieving Independence Center to help is the owner of Juju Salon & organics, 713 S. 4th Street. Her mission is to help youth aging out of the foster care system and people live healthier, minimize their carbon footprint will soon be offering programming through and think sustainably.

ENJOY ALL OF YOUR MUSIC, IN EVERY ROOM OF YOUR HOME, WIRELESSLY. 116 S. 13th Street No wires and no drilling. Philadelphia, PA Ask for a FREE in home consultation. 215-599-0794 springboardmedia.com PAGE 14 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

OUT AND ABOUT Neighbors Raise a Glass to the New Year

ociety Hill neighbors met at Bridget Foy’s to 2016, wishing everyone the best in their lives! S in early December to greet old friends and Thanks to Parallel Design’s Judy Lamirand and meet new ones. We join them in raising a glass for the pictures.

Ned and Nancy Sharff, Martha Moore, Larry Gavin Matt De Julio

Carolyn and Joseph Evans, George Dowdall Sylvia and Norm Lieberman, Marc and Nancy Feldman

Malcolm Levin, Barbara Watson, Katherine Dhuyler Martha Levine, Kim Williams Bob Curley, Mary Purcell, Lois Vederman JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 15

OUT AND ABOUT Cheers!

Jen Rogers, Kim Dudkin, Sue Dudkin Judy Spiller, Lois Vederman, Roberta Marcus

Jean and George Dowdall Lyn Tettemer, Susan Kaplan, Michele April, Gerard Kaplan

Susan Williams and George Kelley Frances and Frederick Beckley Susan and Richard Salkowitz PAGE 16 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

233 - 241 S. 6th Street

Beautifully updated One Bedroom Home Pristine condition one bedroom home with sunrise views, renovated eat-in kitchen with French Country cabinetry, granite countertops, stone backsplash, stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, Two Bedroom on a High Floor spacious living/dining area, fully renovated with a balcony and sunset views bathroom, bamboo flooring, and w/d. 850 sf | $343,000 Recently updated two bedroom, two bathroom with a bright and spacious living room and dining room, upgraded kitchen with dark cherry cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, excellent closet space throughout. 1,387 sf | $769,900

Two Bedroom with a balcony SOLD and sunset views Corner two bedroom plus den, two bathroom with a private balcony, a living room and dining room offering floor-to-ceiling We can sell windows offering breathtaking river views, a recently renovated kitchen, and updated yours, too! bathrooms. 1,734 sf | $895,000

Floorplan does not reflect all changes made by seller.

Allan Domb Real Estate PHILADELPHIA’S LARGEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM REALTOR® WE COOPERATE WITH ALL REALTORS® 1845 Walnut Street, Suite 2200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215.545.1500 allandomb.com [email protected] JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 17

EXPLORING THE CITY

By Jim murPHy The PSFS Building

he PSFS Building is one of the city’s most just two years after PSFS, it is massive, There’s much “T important buildings,” claims Ken Hinde, immense and ornate, as opposed to the simple, more to this former director of the Tour Program for the sleek and functional PSFS Building. deceptively simple Foundation for Architecture. For banks, the PSFS Building was revolution- skyscraper with “Why?” I asked myself at one of Ken’s lectures. ary. It exchanged earlier industry desires for the famous My untrained eye just couldn’t see it. fortress-like security and safety with a newfound neon sign than interest in customer comfort and convenience. So, I set up a meeting with Ken and his colleague, meets the eye. Arthur J. Petrella, one day recently at 1200 Market Five things you may not know It’s timeless! Street to better understand what I was missing. about the PSFS Building: I came away a believer. • The safe deposit vault contained over 18,000 boxes, more than any other bank First, Arthur, a walking encyclopedia of Philadel - in Pennsylvania. phia history and architecture, pointed out the building’s three distinctive parts, coverings and colors. • Because the Depression drastically lowered prices for materials and labor, Look carefully and you’ll see: the PSFS Building actually cost $5 million The highly polished gray, granite-covered less than originally estimated. podium base, rounded at the 12th and Market • Even so, the building, branded in its sales Street side. Inside were retail stores on the brochures as “Nothing More Modern,” ground level, a large banking hall on the second included the very best materials. Among floor, plus several floors of banking offices above them: stainless steel, luxurious varieties — covered by sand-colored limestone. of marble, rare woods, leather and more. The office tower, which includes exposed • Air-conditioning contributed greatly to vertical piers, is covered in the same sand-col- the building’s success. Some 90% of ored limestone. The tower rises some 30 stories. prospective tenants listed it as the And finally the rear wall of the service core, most appealing feature. covering stairwells, elevators and utilities, is clad • The iconic PSFS sign, with 27-foot-high ©Jeff Goldberg/Esto, www.esto.com in glazed and unglazed black brick. letters that are visible for some 20 miles, Not visible — but essential to the design — actually covers up cooling equipment on the is a massive truss, 16 ½ feet deep, that spans roof. The sign — one of the first to use the the entire 63-foot width of the banking area. Futura Light font — was also one of the first It carries the weight of the office tower. branding elements designed right into a building. At the time, some joked that the letters meant: At night, Petrella says, the tower “looks like Philadelphia Slowly Facing Starvation. it is floating on a delicate glass box.” Architects George Howe and William Lescaze F A S T F A C T S designed PSFS with significant input from PSFS Name Opened Office Space president James M. Willcox. PSFS Building August 1, 1932 375,000 square feet The building, Petrella says, is both the first air- Style Cost Year Reopened as conditioned multi-story building in the world and International $7,420.942.37 Loews Philadelphia the first international-style skyscraper anywhere. Hotel Architects Number of Stories 2000 Why international style? Because of its sleek George Howe and 36 modern look, glass facades, steel for exterior William Lescaze Address Height 1200 Market Street, support, reinforced concrete inside, plus Constructed By 491 feet high Philadelphia, PA simplicity, openness and straight lines — George A. Fuller Co. with no applied ornamentation. 19107

Want to see the difference between this and other Jim Murphy, a freelance direct-response copywriter, styles? Compare the U.S. Custom House at 2nd has run his own marketing consulting business since and Chestnut Street with the PSFS Building, says 2004. He’s also a certified member of the Association Historic Landmarks of Philadelphia. Completed of Philadelphia tour Guides. PAGE 18 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

HEADHOUSE FARMERS’ MARKET

By Keri wHite The Food Trust and Headhouse Square Celebrate a Long-Standing Union

hen it was first founded at the end of the To celebrate the producers who are bringing W18th century, Headhouse Square consisted fresh produce to our city tables, we will be of two “head houses,” or fire engine houses, at profiling a number of these pioneers in future either end of a long series of sheds for use by issues, showing how they have grown alongside market traders. the Market and how they have changed and diversified to meet the food needs of local com- Restored in the 1960s, the sole surviving munities in Philadelphia. Believe us, the farmers head house and colonnaded market are today you buy from are a fascinating group. We count collectively known as the Shambles. Thanks to both an ex-nuclear scientist and a former Dupont the pristine Georgian façade of the head house, chemist/patent scientist among our local produc- PROFILE and the fact that this market is the oldest covered ers! These two farmers switched out of profes- market in continual use in the U.S., the Shambles Edward Yin, proprietor of sional careers in the sciences in their mid-40s, is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Fast Queen’s Farm: “We have choosing to roll up their sleeves and use their forward to 2006. The Food Trust, the not-for- introduced lots of unique scientific know-how to grow fresh produce. produce to the market. profit organization that helps set the public In the process we’ve met agenda for healthy eating and food access Still Need Your Farmers’ Market Fix? customers who’ve told nationwide, together with a handful of local Missing out on your fresh produce from the us that it’s the first time farmers, decided to open for business in Headhouse Farmers’ Market? The Food Trust they’ve tasted a particular the historic Headhouse Market. operates two year-round markets: the Clark Park vegetable in decades, be Ten years later, the Headhouse Farmers’ Saturday Farmers’ Market at 43rd Street and it fava beans or a specific Baltimore Avenue, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; type of luffa. We’ve also Market is a beacon for city dwellers seeking and the Fitler Square Market at 23rd and Pine, had customers who suf- healthy, often organic, good food — which is Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. These markets will fered mishaps with our also locally sourced and reasonably priced. produce. One customer The marriage between the Food Trust and the continue to run throughout the winter, weather threw out our edamame, Headhouse has proven to be a perfect union. permitting. More information about the Food because they’d never On any given Sunday, the market is bustling Trust’s Farmers’ Markets can be found at encountered that deep with activity, with locals not only lining up www.thefoodtrustmarkets.org. purple color before, and to buy fresh produce, but also stopping to they assumed something catch up with friends and neighbors. The Food Trust was wrong! We have , in partnership with Get Healthy many customers who To celebrate its 10th anniversary in historic Philly, operates more than 25 farmers’ markets in Philadelphia, including the Headhouse Farmers’ keep coming back to Headhouse, the Food Trust plans to revisit the market, Philadelphia’s largest outdoor market. For try new things. They often pioneering local farmers and producers who first more than 20 years, the Food trust has been working tell us that our tomatoes, set up their stalls in the Shambles in 2006. Just nationally to ensure that everyone has access to or the bitter melons, or like the Food Trust and the Headhouse Farmers’ affordable, nutritious food and information to make some other produce has Market, these producers have gone from healthy decisions. if you would like to make a donation changed their lives. It’s or perhaps volunteer at one of the city farmers’ why we keep going.” strength to strength, and all have stories to tell. markets, contact [email protected]. OUR ANTI-GRAFFITI GURU odd Kelley, our anti-graffiti guru, joined us T at the holiday party. Over the past few years, SHCA has contracted Todd Kelley’s company, Graffiti Removal Experts, to provide its services to Society Hill, helping us live in a cleaner, more beautiful and unmarred environment. He is responsible for ridding this neighborhood of graffiti, often within 24 hours of a report. Participate in keeping Society Hill graffiti free. If you spot graffiti in our neighborhood, take a photo with your cell phone and send it directly to Todd at:todd@graffitiremoval experts.com. Judy Lamirand, Lorna Katz-Lawson, Todd Kelley JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 19

ON OUR SHELF Head House Books Celebrates 10 Years

t’s hard to believe we’ve been here for Via their weekly “I 10 years,” says Head House Books owner e-newsletter and Richard DeWyngaert. “The shop has become Facebook page, as well a community mainstay, with frequent and as SHCA email blasts, impressive author events, children’s story hours Head House Books and a carefully curated selection of titles on the will announce other shelves, with just about any book on the ways the shop plans planet available for overnight delivery.” to mark the occasion. One eagerly anticipat- In celebration of this milestone, the shop plans ed contest: customers to spend the month of February thanking its will be invited to write customers. “We know we wouldn’t be here Visit Head House Books 10-word love letters to the shop, and winning without the loyalty of the community,” Richard during February and find entries will be published and awarded prizes. continues, “so we’re prizes and surprises. launching a month- Please stay tuned for these exciting celebrations long celebration to and visit Head House Books during the month of recognize that.” The February to give and receive some literary love. shop has created a Bring this article to Head House Books and “Book of Gratitude” get 50 percent off the net proceeds from containing various any purchase in stock or ordered online. promotions, as well as prizes to be won Richard De Wyngaert is the proprietor of Society Ever been on a blind by r andomly selected Hill’s only local, independently-owned bookstore, date? Take out a book! customers every day. Head House Books, located at 619 S. 2nd Street PAGE 20 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

The Lippincott

604 S. Washington Square 227 S. 6th Street

One Bedroom High Floor with Washington Square Views Spacious, one bedroom on a high floor with a balcony, hardwood floors, great closet space panoramic views. Tenant occupied until 3/31/16. 843 sf | $310,000

200-220 Locust Street

Spacious Two Bedroom with Treetop River and City Views Two bedroom, two bathroom residence with floor-to-ceiling Totally Custom Three Bedroom Plus Den windows in all rooms offering intimate Delaware River Three bedroom plus den, three bathroom custom built views to the east and treetop city views to the north, as residence with a balcony and private roof deck, as well well as an expansive open dining room and living room as an open chef’s kitchen, exposed brick walls and with ample light and generous space for entertaining. designer bathrooms. 1,200 sf | $425,000 2,306 sf | $2,100,000 Allan Domb Real Estate PHILADELPHIA’S LARGEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM REALTOR® WE COOPERATE WITH ALL REALTORS® 1845 Walnut Street, Suite 2200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215.545.1500 allandomb.com [email protected] JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 21

Philadelphia Named Powel House Botanical World Heritage City Art Classes Resume

ecently, the City of Philadelphia became ociety Hill artist and Seton Hall faculty R the first World Heritage City in the United S emeritus of fine arts Susan Leshnoff is States, putting it on a par with Paris, Florence, known for her landscapes and her use of flowers Jerusalem, Prague and other places recognized in Hebrew calligraphy. But a small story in the for their impacts on the course of human events. Reporter last year about the Powel House’s botanical art classes made her think there could be The designation comes as the result of a two-year more — learning “to combine scientific examina- campaign and is expected to enhance the city’s tion with the aesthetic beauty of the botanicals.” international stature, providing a new growth engine to drive tourism and commerce in the “And it’s the most wonderful experience to region. do it in the Powel House,” she exclaimed. World Heritage Cities have all made Needless to say she will be a returning student notable impacts on the world and are home to when the spring series begins, Tuesdays 10 a.m. a UNESCO World Heritage site. Independence to 1 p.m., starting March 22 and ending May 10. Hall became a UNESCO heritage site in 1979, The cost is $200 for the eight weeks. The class is significant because both the Declaration of limited, but there will be a waiting list. For more Independence and the Constitution — information contact Sarah Maxwell at documents that have had a profound [email protected], herself a retired impact on lawmakers around the world — Fordham business professor who became a were signed there. certified botanical illustrator in retirement.

A History of Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park Bainbridge Green Needs City in a Park: Community Input A History of the

ainbridge Green is the oddly wide, tree-lined Fairmount Park System strip running down the center of Bainbridge B Lynn Miller and James McClelland Street between 3rd and 5th Streets. For the past By James McClelland several years, South Street Headhouse District and Lynn Miller and Friends of Bainbridge Green have been working on a design to turn this parking place How Philadelphia’s early efforts into Philadelphia’s next great public space. at conservation led to the country’s Three plans are now under consideration. The greatest park system goal is to come up with one that will determine airmount Park is the municipal park system the shape of the space. Just establishing the curb Fof Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It consists lines will affect how much park space is gained. of more than one hundred parks, squares and Work For instance, one option adds 22,000 square feet green spaces totaling about 11,000 acres, and Up An Appetite of green space. it is one of the largest landscaped urban park The Blue Cross RiverRink Can a handful of parking spaces be sacrificed for systems in the world. In City in a Park, James WinterFest, at Penn's a bigger and better public space? Will a compre- McClelland and Lynn Miller provide an Landing, is about more hensive parking plan that takes into account the affectionate and comprehensive history than just ice skating. needs of neighbors and businesses make up for of this 200-year-old network of parks. With three locations by Garces Group, Franklin lost parking spaces? Will the design choices help Filled with nearly 150 gorgeous full-color Fountain Confectionery improve not only Bainbridge Green, but also 4th photographs, City in a Park chronicles the Street and South Street? Can a destination with Cabin and two bars, it's continuing efforts to create a twenty-first a fantastic place to visit programming, outdoor cafes and fun events be century version of what founder William for a meal or a drink — created? Penn desired, a “greene countrie town.” with or without a turn on the rink! Active civic engagement is essential. Community James McClelland is a freelance writer members are encouraged to fill out a 10-minute whose work focuses on the arts. He is Executive survey at surveymonkey.com/r/8NJGW7Y. Director Emeritus of the Philadelphia Art Your responses to survey questions will inform Alliance. Lynn Miller is an author and professor the design process moving forward. emeritus of political science, Temple University. PAGE 22 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

THE ESTATE HOME AT 4TH AND LOCUST

5th Floor

Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to 4th Floor create the most spectacular estate home in all of Society Hill by combining The Shippen-Wistar House (built in 1750) and The Cadwalader House (built in 1829). These adjacent residences offer tremendous history, an unparalleled location in the heart of Society Hill, and endless possibilities in terms of layout and design. The Estate Home at 4th and Locust has a large private 3rd Floor garden and approval for up to four parking spaces. For more information including images, a drone video and sample floor plans done by architect Cecil Baker, visit www.allandomb.com or www.shippen-wistar-cadwalader.com. 13,673 sf | $4,950,000

2nd Floor

1st Floor

WELCOME BASKETS MARTHA LEVINE SHCA’s Gift to New Home Owners

ince 1999, SHCA has been welcoming new Quotes from recent basket recipients: S first-time homeowners to the neighborhood “Thank you so very much… it was thrilling to with a valuable gift: The Welcome Basket. get and learn about local businesses and cultural Unlike anything seen in other neighborhoods, events and very kind and welcoming.” the basket is filled with fresh foods (bagels, “We appreciate being so welcomed by the bread, cakes, coffee, apples, tea and more). neighborhood association and look forward In addition, the basket includes neighborhood to participating in SHCA any way we can.” information, and many gift certificates to area theaters, restaurants, shops, services and “Thank you for the spectacular gift basket! museums. All of the contents are donated by area Thanks for the hospitality. Every day we know we businesses and organizations. made the right decision moving to Society Hill.” “We loved receiving the many gift certificates in If you are a new first-time home/condo the basket. Thanks for taking the time to talk us owner in Society Hill since 2015, and are through so many aspects of the neighborhood interested, let us know you are here. We with which we were not yet familiar.” will contact you to make an appointment for the 45-minute presentation in your home. Please show support for our contributing To date, over 750 baskets have been businesses and organizations by patronizing presented to delighted recipients. them. They make our baskets possible.

2016 SOCIETY HILL WELCOME BASKET CONTRIBUTORS

Coffee Shops Show of Hands Gallery (crafts), 1006 Pine Street Old City Coffee, 221 Church Street/Reading Terminal Market Yarnphoria (yarn and supplies), 1016 Pine Street Starbucks Coffee Inc., 8th & Walnut Streets Theaters/Entertainment Food Stores Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St. Acme Markets, 309 5th Street Arden Theater, 40 N. 2nd Street Restaurants Ballet X at Wilma Theater, 265 S. Broad Street Bistro Romano, 120 Lombard Street 1812 Productions (all comedy theater), 215-592-9560 Bridget Foy’s, 200 South Street Ghost Tours of Philadelphia, 610-587-8308 City Tavern, 138 S. 2nd Street Historic Philadelphia Inc., SW corner 6th & Chestnut Street Creperie Beau Monde, 624 S. 6th Street Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Columbus Blvd. Fork, 306 Market Street InterAct Theater Company, 2030 Sansom Street Garces Group: Amada, 217 Chestnut Street, Rosa Blanca, Lantern Theater Company, 10th & Ludlow Streets 707 Chestnut Street, and others Museum of American Jewish History, 5th & Market Streets High Street on Market, 308 Market Street National Liberty Museum, 321 Chestnut Street La Buca Ristorante, 711 Locust Street Pennsylvania Ballet, Academy of Music, Broad & Locust Sts. La Fourno Trattoria, 636 South Street Penn’s Landing Playhouse @ the Seaport Museum, Le Pain Quotidien, 801 Walnut Street 211 S. Columbus Boulevard Mustard Greens (Chinese), 622 S. 2nd Street Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, 215-569-8080 Positano Coast Restaurant, 2nd & Walnut Streets Philadelphia History Museum, 15 S. 7th Street Serpico, 604 South Street Philadelphia Shakespeare Theatre, 2111 Sansom Street Talula’s Daily, café & take out, 208 W. Washington Square Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks, The Farm & Fisherman, 1120 Pine Street 321 S. 4th Street Philadelphia Theatre Company: S. Roberts Theater, Specialty Foods Broad & Pine Streets Homemade Goodies by Roz, 510 S. 5th Street Society Hill Playhouse, 507 S. 8th Street Knead Bagels, 715 Walnut Street The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Kimmel Center, Melange Tea & Spice, 1042 Pine Street 215-545-1739 Metropolitan Bakery, 262 S. 19th Street (Rittenhouse Sq.) The Philadelphia Chamber Ensemble, Old Pine Church Martha Levine, an active South Street Bagels, 613 S. 3rd Street Wilma Theater, 265 S. Broad Street SHCA board member, The Bagel Factory, 510 Walnut Street (Penn Mutual Building) has created and chaired Other Services many projects, such Specialty Shops Judy Moon Massage Therapy, 604 Washington Square as Block Coordinators, Adornamenti (jewelry), 1106 Pine Street Liberty Tree & Landscape Management, 215-725-3637 “Fix the Brix,” welcome Happily Ever After (toys), 1010 Pine Street Petmoir: A Memoir of Your Pet, 215-803-0723 Baskets and the Franklin Head House Books, 619 S. 2nd Street Riff Cleaners, 314 S. 5th Street lights restoration project. Lolli Lolli (children’s clothing/toys), 713 Walnut Street SCULPT— Personal Trainer, 215-803-0723 She also co-chairs the Paper On Pine (invitations/stationery), 115 S. 13th Street The Worth Collection (women’s fashions), 215-925-8813 yearly house tour. PAGE 24 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

Hi Tech. Hi Touch. A Winning Combination – in Person and on the Web!

For Rent: Hopkinson House Unit #2515 – Beautifully Renovated One Bedroom/One Bath (778 Sq Ft) facing South, Balcony off Living Room Spectacular Views! - RENTED$1,950 includes all Utilities. 302 D Lombard – Terrific Bi-Level Condo – Renovated One Bedroom/One and a HalfSOLD Baths; Central Air; Wood Floors: Working Fireplace; Eat-in Kitchen. One of four Units in Building! Hopkinson House Unit #1404 – L-Shaped Studio (600 Sq Ft) overlooking Washinigton Square with Spectacuar Views; Parquet Floors;SOLD Sleeping Alcove and Tons of Closets being Sold in “AS IS” Condition! – Deluxe One Bedroom (1,063 Sq Ft) overlooking Unit #2514 SOLD Our Washington Square – Needs TLC – Parquet Floors; Tons of Closets; Original Kitchen and Bath; No Balcony – PRICED TO SELL $329,000!!! record Unit #1809 – Standard OneSOLD Bedroom (778 Sq Ft) with Open Floor speaks Plan, Facing South and Balcony off Bedroom Brought the Buyers Unit #312 – Deluxe One BedroomSOLD with Balcony for accessible from Living Room and Bedroom – itself. overlooking Washington Square – Medium One Bedroom (843 Sq Ft) Unit #910SOLD Kathy, Patrick and the with Balcony overlooking ashington Square Rosemary Fluehr ConwayTeam Associate Broker, GRI 215-514-9884 – Cell [email protected] conwayteam.com • [email protected] 215-440-8195 – Direct www.rosemaryfluehr.com 215-266-1537 • 215-627-6005 215-627-6005 – Office 530 Walnut Street, Suite 260 Philadelphia, PA 19106

Top 6% of all Realtors in Prudential Network Nationwide Accredited Luxury Home Specialist Diamond Award 215-SMART RESPONSIVE EXPERIENCED I am a professional, Bari Shor full-time real estate agent Real Estate as well as your neighbor. MatchMaker n Pamela D. Laws

ABR, ALHS, SRES, ASP

Like many of my clients, Society Hill is my home. Whether you’re selling or buying a home in amazing Center City, I specialize in Center City Bari Shor cares and delivers for you. because I love Philadelphia. Let me find the perfect I am your neighbor, townhome or condo for you! let me be your Realtor,® too!

215-790-5678 215.790.5688 [email protected] [email protected] WWW.PHILADELPHIAPROPERTIES.NET 215-546-0550 x 5678 An independently owned and operated member of the Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 25

MEMBERSHIP REPORT

By mAtt de Julio 2016 Membership Drive Continues Full Steam y early December, nearly 600 Society Hill B residents had renewed their Association membership — about 10 percent higher than Membership the same time last year. Winners of the restaurant Application certificates for those who renewed by December 31 will be announced in the March/April issue Name of the Reporter. If you have delayed sending in your renewal or Address Apt. # wish to join, please do so today. We welcome each of the over 3,600 households to join SHCA. Your City, State, Zip civic association helps protect your real estate Home Phone investment by funding many of our improvement projects, as well as providing subsidies to neigh- Work Phone bors who plant trees and fix their sidewalks. We Email help enhance your quality of life when we advocate (print clearly) on your behalf regarding zoning changes, real estate taxes, crime problems and traffic issues. IMPORTANT: Today, most everyone communicates via email. Please be sure that we have your current email address — so that you can receive important updates between All this is accomplished through the hard work of publication of our community newsletter. All SHCA emails will be judiciously screened, our dedicated board of directors, committee mem- and rarely will we send emails more than once a week. Nor will we share your email bers, block coordinators and, most importantly, address with anyone else. This convenient, 21st-century system helps save our civic association postage costs, while keeping you regularly informed. your membership dues. Residential Memberships Business Memberships Without member dues, SHCA would cease to l $ 50 Basic Household Membership l $ 100 Institutions — function. Protect your neighborhood and your l $ 40 Senior/Student/Single 5+ employees real estate investment. Sign up today! l $ 100 Federal Friend l $ 60 Institutions — Email [email protected] with questions or l $ 150 Georgian Grantor fewer than 5 employees comments, which will be shared with our board members representing every quadrant in our l $ 300 Jefferson Benefactor most unique historic neighborhood. l $ 500 Washington Benefactor l $ 1,000 Benjamin Franklin Benefactor Matt De Julio is a retired publishing executive. He has served SHCA as its administrator since 2001. Additional Contributions $______Washington Square Beautification $______Franklin Lights EXERCISE & SOCIALIZE $______Sidewalk Cleaning/Graffiti Removal $______Tree Tenders Bundle up this winter and consider joining one or $______Zoning and Historic Preservation $______McCall School both of these local groups for some walking and Total Enclosed $______talking. l Charge VISA/MasterCard: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:15 a.m. Walkie/Talkies meet at Three Bears Park (Delancey Street Number Exp Date between 2nd and 3rd Streets) for a one-hour stroll through our Signature historic community. Anyone is The following topics are of special interest to me. I welcome receipt of email welcome to participate in this updates on these topics. non-stressful exercise and Clean-Up Day Washington Square Zoning & Historic Preservation socialize program. l l l l Franklin Lights l Social Events l Fundraising Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 a.m. l Dilworth House l Property Taxes l Local Crime Philly Is Walking In The Park! meets at the fountain in the center of Washington Square (6th l Reporter l Casino Issues Incidents and Alerts and Locust) for a half-hour, self-paced walk through Please return completed application to: our historic, beautiful park, led by neighbor Dr. Lisa Society Hill Civic Association, P.O. Box 63503, Philadelphia, PA 19147 Unger. All are invited to join us. PAGE 26 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

NIFTY NEIGHBORS IN MY OWN BACKYARD

By JAne BiBermAn Immersed in History and Devoted to Volunteering

hen we first moved to Carole currently serves on the board “WIndependence Place, I was of Independence Place, a position enamored with the idea of walking Sam has also held. In addition, she through history and not just residing has been active on a number of other in a building with a historic name,” boards: Volunteer Lawyers for the recalls Carole Karsch. That was Arts, Penn’s Katz Center for 27 years ago, but Carole and Advanced Judaic Studies, Gratz Sam Karsch are still in love with College, Philadelphia Federation Independence Park, Washington of Jewish Agencies and the Jewish Square and Society Hill. Family and Children’s Service. She was the first woman to become Sam and Carole, who raised three president of Har Zion Temple, where sons in Bala Cynwyd, moved to Sam also served as president. Philadelphia when their nest was empty. “We chose Society Hill over “Although we still belong to our Rittenhouse Square, not only for its childhood congregation,” remarks history, but because we felt it was Carole and Sam Karsch Carole, “we appreciate the fact that more of a neighborhood,” recalls Carole. there are five synagogues within “And we also loved the idea of having a spacious 6.5-acre walking distance of our home, including historic Mikveh park for our backyard,” adds Sam. “We enjoy sitting and Israel. The new National Museum of American Jewish walking in the park without ever having to weed.” History has also brought another historic dimension to our neighborhood. When we walk in our own backyard, Natives of the Main Line area, the couple met when we take the opportunity to note the homes, businesses, they were students at the University of Pennsylvania. synagogues and bathhouses of early Jewish immigrants. Their alma mater still plays a central role in their life: Today their heirs have returned to more luxurious their sons are among 24 family members who attended. residences in the area.” For most of her career, Carole worked at Penn as senior development officer. Sam notes, “Even after almost three decades, wherever we turn in Society Hill we encounter history. One of our A graduate of Gratz College as well as Penn’s Wharton favorite cultural activities is attending the wide range of and Law Schools, Sam was a partner in the international concerts presented by the Philadelphia Chamber Music law firm, Reed Smith. Upon retirement, he became an Society. It’s especially magical to do so in the American arbitrator and mediator for complex construction and Philosophical Society, surrounded by the magnificent commercial matters. He has been very involved with portraits of our nation’s first presidents.” Jewish education. He served on the Philadelphia Jewish Federation’s Education Committee and the Federation With all of their communal activities, the Karsches Board. Sam was founding president of the Central still find time to travel. In the 70s, they were active in Agency for Jewish Education and chaired several the early Soviet Jewry Movement and made two trips fundraising initiatives for Penn Law School. to visit refuseniks (Soviet citizens who were denied permission to emigrate to Israel) in the former Soviet Today, Carole volunteers at Pennsylvania Hospital Union. They have been to Israel about 12 times. Their and the National Constitution Center. “I was privileged apartment is filled with artwork acquired on their jour- to play an active role in the development of this modern neys throughout Europe and Africa. An accomplished treasure in our neighborhood,” she says. “While work- amateur photographer, Sam has framed many of his ing as an independent consultant for the local firm most notable shots. Schultz & Williams, I served as interim development director for the center, whose offices were then in the This winter will find them close to home enjoying Bourse Building. Sam and I were guests at the official the conveniences and attractions of the neighborhood. opening of the center on July 4, 2003. The featured “We’re looking forward to a wealth of concerts, plays speaker was Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day and movies in our own backyard,” says Carole. O’Connor. I take special delight in interacting with the thousands of people who visit and are learning Jane Biberman, former editor of Inside Magazine, is a free- about ‘We the People.’” lance writer who has contributed to a variety of publications. JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 PAGE 27 PAGE 28 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

TAKE THE WORRY OUT OF PEANUT ALLERGIES A&AS Offers Peanut Sublingual Immunotherapy.

Peanut Extract Drops Are Placed Under The Tongue To Decrease The Risk Of Serious Reactions With Accidental Exposure To Peanuts.

phia mag phia mag phia mag el a el a el a d z d z d z i n i n i n la la la i e i e i e ’ ’ ’ h s h s h s P P P

Call 1-800-86-Cough 2013 2014 2015 And Ask To Speak With A Nurse About Peanut Slit

www.AllergyandAsthmaWellness.com

The Estate Homes at Parc Rittenhouse: The Alison: Develop your dream home at the Estate Homes at Parc The Alison is a brand new luxury rental building Rittenhouse! A once in a lifetime opportunity to customize on the north side of Rittenhouse Square. With only raw space in one of the most stunning and sought-after 19 homes, this boutique building is one of the most condominiums on Rittenhouse Square! The Estate Homes exclusive addresses on Rittenhouse Square. Homes will offer 20 custom 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes from 1,500 to at The Alison feature European Oak floors throughout; 6,000 square feet that will feature a private lobby and private marble bathrooms; and kitchens with sub-zero Wolfe, elevators, as well as luxury services and amenities, including Miele, and Bosch stainless steel appliances, Caesarstone a 24-hour door person, parking, a state of the art fitness quartz countertops, and Downsview cabinetry. The interiors center, lounge, and pool. Prices range from $600 - $1,000/ft. of these homes were designed by Joanne Hudson. They For more information on these exclusive homes, please visit are priced from $5,000 to $8,500 per month. Residents www.estatehomesatparc.com. of The Alison enjoy a 24-hour doorman.