November/December 2020 The Newsletter of The Society Hill Civic Association

SOCIETY HILL

Reporter www.societyhillcivic.org

Ready to Rebound: Reopening With Care

lthough the City of Philadelphia is in a All these hallmarks of success are now A modified Green Phase and is “Reopening profoundly challenged by COVID-19 and its with Care,” large indoor gatherings, like our imperatives of non-essential business shut-downs, General Membership Meetings, are still not stay-at-home orders, and social distancing. possible. Society Hill Civic Association (SHCA) Pedestrian volume has plummeted by 87 percent. continues to follow guidelines for safety and Does the transition to working from home render hosts all of our meetings via Zoom. business offices obsolete? Will online shopping doom traditional retail? These are questions The next SHCA General Membership Meeting asked by Paul Levy. Log in to his presentation will be held on Wednesday, November 18. Paul at the General Meeting and listen to his answers: Levy, Founding Director, President and CEO “In Philadelphia, we walk amidst centuries of of the Center City District (CCD), will address history, echoes of challenges we’ve overcome. Paul Levy, Director of the conditions and prospects for Center City Philadelphia reminds us every day, despite the Center City District, as it recovers from the effects of the pandemic setbacks, we will prevail.” is the speaker for the and racial unrest. November General Login information for the November 18th Membership Meeting. When the CCD was launched in 1991, Center City meeting will be sent out to SHCA’s blast email was a 9-to-5 office district. There was no convention subscribers. If you’re not already subscribed, center, only a few hotels, just one high-rise condo, send your up-to-date contact information to and a small number of restaurants. Municipal Administrator Matt DeJulio, [email protected], government spiraled towards bankruptcy. Litter so he can put you on our weekly email blast list. and graffiti were everywhere. The CCD focused on clean-up first, followed by economic recovery. The Stay-at-Home order is now the Safer-at-Home order. As you venture outdoors, stay safe, wear By 2008, Center City had diversified. The first your face mask when you leave your own house, Comcast tower had just opened. The convention maintain six-foot social distancing, carry hand center was expanding. Vacant buildings were sanitizer and wash your hands frequently. now hotels and apartments; there were 50 condominiums. Health and educational institutions SIGN OF THE TIMES were expanding. Arts and culture, hundreds of restaurants, scores of outdoor cafes and all forms of nightlife were thriving. Empty-nesters and millennials were moving into the buildings that had been repurposed as apartments and condos.

Wednesday, MARK YOUR CALENDAR November Society Hill Civic Association Meeting Wednesday, November 18, 2020

18 via Zoom 5:45 p.m. Board Meeting

7:30 p.m. General Membership Meeting

Speaker: Paul Levy, Founding Director, President and CEO, Center City District Topic: Ready to Rebound: Pandemic Recovery

photo by Martha Levine page 2 society hill Reporter

In This Issue… NUSA SOCIETY HILL Award-Winning Newsletter First Place Reporter 2020 Page 5 Break out the Rakes: Clean-up Time Saturday, December 5th Editor in Chief Graphic Design Sandra Rothman [email protected] Acting Editor in Chief Press Release Liaison Judy Lamirand c/o Matt DeJulio Page 9 [email protected] Keeping Posted: Columnists Claire Batten Neighborhood Connections Advertising Manager Jane Biberman William Jantsch Susan Burt-Collins [email protected] Claudia Carabelli Submission Deadline Al Cavalari January/February Issue: Dec. 1 Matt DeJulio Page 11 Martha Levine Society Hill Civic Association Making a Difference: Fred Manfred P. O. Box 63503 Keeping Us Healthy and Sandra Rothman Philadelphia, PA 19147 PENNSYLVANIA Green Since 1827 Gabrielle Rumney Tel. 215-629-1288 HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Larry Spector Website Keri White Find past issues in color Richard de Wyngaert at www.societyhillcivic.org. Page 13 Headhouse Farmers Market: The views set forth in the opinion articles are the views Featuring Fresh, Local, of the authors and are not necessarily those of SHCA. Seasonal Flavors 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. Pages 14-15 Edited submissions will be considered for publication if space Out and About: permits. Letters to the Editor must be signed, with contact information. Signs of the Season SHCA Mission Statement Happy Thanksgiving to All! 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 and restoration of its historic buildings; to represent the residents of Society Hill in matters affecting Page 17 the City of Philadel p hia generally and Society Hill in particular; and Washington Square to interpret the value and significance of Society Hill to the public. Committee Update

SHCA BOARD OFFICERS & DIRECTORS President Quadrant Directors Larry Spector Page 19 Northeast: Bonnie Halda, Our Creatures Great & Small: 1st Vice President Lisa Unger, George Kelley One Look and She Mary Purcell Northwest: Concha Alborg, Was Smitten 2nd Vice President Bill Jantsch, Norm Lieberman Martha Levine Southeast: Joe Dillon, Treasurer Barbara Gelman, Robert Curley Brian Wengenroth Southwest: Claudia Carabelli, Page 21 Secretary Kim Williams, Madeline Miller South Street Headhouse Ben Speciale District: Making Lemonade Condominium Directors at Large Representatives from Lemons Jeff Berry Hopkinson House: Susan Collins Ramona Johnson Robert Kramer Independence Place: Jerry Yablin Andrea Layden Page 26 Lorna Katz Lawson Penn’s Landing Condos: Vacancy Nifty Neighbors in Sissie Lipton Society Hill Towers: Terry Conn My Own Backyard: Carla Petri McMullen St. James Court: Sharon Simon* Joan Rollins Tropp Mary Tracy The St. James: Helen Grady* Continuing Director Bingham Court: Frank Chudnow* Rosanne Loesch *non-voting directors november/december 2020 page 3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BY LARRY SPECTOR Success!

or much of October we acted as our own Merchants Exchange, a National Historic Site. Fpublic relations and political operatives in These recommendations, however, were legally not dealing with the Mayor, City Council and the binding; and the full Commission approved the proj- media coverage of our efforts to pass our zoning ect by a vote of 8 to 3. It remains to be seen whether bills. Now all our efforts have ended with success! the approval is affected by the veto override. With strong support from the National Park Why the approval? The Mayor appoints 6 of the Service and the Preservation Alliance for Greater 14 members of the Commission. It can be fairly Philadelphia, City Council unanimously passed our assumed that developers routinely have his ear. overlay and remapping bills on October 1. Mayor When the suitability of the hotel for the site Kenney vetoed the overlay on October 12, the first opposite the Merchants Exchange was being fully veto in his five years as Mayor. We needed 12 votes debated before the Commission vote, the Mayor’s SHCA President to override the veto. Our Board wrote to the Mayor representatives said not one word. That is, until Larry Spector with a rebuttal to the veto; we made calls and sent they each said “aye” in voting for the project. We letters, maps and a petition to every member of are left to draw our own conclusion as to whether, City Council. You made calls too, and gave us notwithstanding all the architectural and historic 700 signatures on the petition. On October 22 preservation considerations, this was all along we prevailed by a vote of 13-4. Among other things, the inevitable result. the bill creates a 65-foot height limit in the 200 block of Walnut Street to protect the historic Recent events remind us how eagerly some are Merchants Exchange Building from being to take pot shots at Society Hill. While we viewed dwarfed by high-rise buildings. our zoning bills as honest efforts furthering historic preservation, critics were calling us Through it all, Councilman Mark Squilla champi- NIMBY purveyors of “exclusionary zoning” oned our cause and was instrumental in convincing that that would restrict the supply of affordable his colleagues that the bill was in furtherance of housing. We decided not to sit still for the implica- historic preservation and not at all an obstacle to tions of this claim and wrote the Mayor a letter achieving affordable housing goals for our city. (previously the subject of an email blast to the Special thanks to SHCA Vice President Mary Our warmest entire community) saying that we were not a Purcell and to Paul Boni; and to Rosanne Loesch, wishes to you, political punching bag that would stand still in Bob Kramer, Mary Tracy and Lorna Katz Lawson, the face of such claims. We would like to think this your family who were indefatigable in helping with the legisla- message proved effective. We appreciate that in his and friends tive process. Their efforts followed literally years responding veto letter, the Mayor did not say, as for a happy of work from those who produced our Master Plan he had before, that our bills were “exclusionary.” in the first place — selecting and meeting with and safe consultants, extensive work with the Philadelphia The ATV and dirt bike problem persists, perhaps holiday season Planning Commission, outreach to stakeholders not as bad as in the Spring, and hopefully to subside of hope! and multiple community presentations. All that with the cooler weather. Meanwhile on October 7, work was ably led by past president Rosanne following a resolution introduced by Councilmember Loesch with the benefit of architectural expertise Alan Domb, the Public Safety Committee of City from Lorna Katz Lawson and critical support from Council held a half day hearing on the subject. Urban Partners, Viridian Landscape Studio, and Participants included Deputy Police Commissioner John Gibbons and Laura Ahramjian of the former Dale, at least 8 members of City Council, riders urban planning firm KSK Associates. and many complaining citizens. The hearing cov- ered enforcement resources, the bike culture and Between the initial passage of our bills and the social media gratification that motivates the riders, Mayor’s veto, the Historical Commission held a and creation of an ATV park as a way to draw them hearing on whether to approve a proposed luxury off the streets. The commitment to improve the hotel on the corner of 3d and Walnut. The structure, situation is undoubtedly there. As for more relief Larry Spector is situated to detract from the scale and beauty of the in the near term, it appears that only traffic calming an attorney handling Merchants Exchange Building across the street, measures, if practical, will diminish the roars. business disputes was originally proposed at 10 stories and 180 feet and related litigation. high and later reconceived as 7 stories and 100 feet Thanks to everyone who joined in the October 31 He has lived in Society high. The Architectural Committee of the Commis- Clean Up Day. Vote. Come to our November 21 Hill since 1976, married, and raised community meeting featuring Paul Levy. sion unanimously disapproved both designs as too two daughters here high and too massive to be located across from the I’m having a drink. with wife, Ann. page 4 society hill Reporter

MAKING STREETS SAFER BY MARTHA LEVINE Goodbye, Potholes

he Philadelphia Streets Department has its vehicles. Apparently, we have a friend in the T hands full with the repair of potholes from Streets Department who is responsive to SHCA. last winter. In the last few weeks, I have reported See before and after photos below. We were told two major potholes to the Streets Department that 6th Street will be re-milled soon. and have gotten results as soon as two days. No, they didn’t make it as pretty as it should be, but If you see significant potholes in or near Society they filled in the dangerous holes that could have Hill, please take a photo with the address, and caused serious accidents for both pedestrians and send it to me at [email protected].

A friend in the Streets Department is getting results. Potholes are filled in as soon as two days.

At 5th and Market Streets, a busy center for After an email to our contact at the Streets Depart- tourists, this Belgian Block street was a disaster ment, the pothole was patched. Not a pretty sight, waiting to happen. but they will return in the spring to repair it properly.

A large and deep pothole at 6th and Spruce Streets put pedestrians and cars at risk. Again, a temporary patch job was completed for safety reasons. When 6th Street is resurfaced, which is scheduled soon, it will be improved.

DELINEATOR DEBATE BY LARRY SPECTOR Surprise! Delineators Suddenly Installed here may be confusion as to why bike lane T delineators were recently installed at corners of Spruce and Pine east of 8th Street. We had no prior notice from the city that the installation would so suddenly take place. It should not have been a surprise, however, because earlier this year Councilman Squilla, recognizing that there were many people with strong views on both sides of the debate, introduced in February an ordinance that would allow delineators between Front and 22nd Street on Pine and between Front and 18th Street on Spruce; but they could not be placed more than 60 feet from an intersection. Delayed by the pandemic, the bill has now made its way through City Council and will have been Bike lane delineators have been installed on Spruce passed as of this writing. and Pine Streets. november/december 2020 page 5

BREAK OUT THE RAKES BY SUSAN BURT-COLLINS Clean Up Time!

HCA is coordinating a Clean-up Day the had in other years may not happen this time. Saturday, S first weekend after Thanksgiving to help We are working on it, but at this writing we are December 5, neighbors join together to tidy our sidewalks not hopeful. Nonetheless, sweep and bag the 9 a.m. to and streets. It’s especially important that we debris, and if you have a hose handy, wash down sweep up those slippery leaves before winter the area near your home. Hopefully, others will 1 p.m. mixes in ice and snow, making our charming do the same and the accumulated debris of this brick and cobblestone sidewalks a tad treacher- Annus Horribilis will be swept away. ous on wet winter days. Come out to the 5th Your bagged leaves and street litter, but no Street Acme, where SHCA will be set up from household trash, should be left by noon at inter- 8 a.m. until noon handing out brooms, bags sections on Locust, Spruce, Pine or Lombard and gloves provided by the city. Grab some Streets, where they cross the numbered streets. neighbor time before winter closes in. Although this Clean-up Day is different, without We will be posting No Parking signs along our city trucks and crews helping us, it is nonetheless streets, asking people to switch to the opposite an important event when we can gather together side of the street on Friday evening until Saturday to both freshen our streets and work as neigh- after 2 p.m., allowing residents to sweep debris bors to make it plain to residents and visitors from the gutters. Unlike other years, we are un- alike how much we value our little patch of likely to have city sweeper trucks pre-cleaning history and charm. the gutters. As with everything else that has been disrupted this year, the Streets Department is Questions or comments: Susan Burt-Collins, limiting overtime, so this service that we have [email protected], 610-331-8203.

Why Every Day Is Clean-Up Day for Al Meinster

e noticed Al Meinster watering the gardens in Three Bears Park and stopped to thank him for his contribution to making Wour neighborhood more beautiful. Al was kind enough to share this story of why he volunteers to help maintain the park: “I thought that I might explain why small ways helps to maintain the park, I’m so dedicated to tending to Three a park that brings delight to today’s Bears Park. As a toddler, in our neigh- toddlers. borhood during and just after the war, “I pressure-wash the benches and there were no places to “be a kid” picnic tables, and turn the lights on other than Washington Square and a in the evening and off in the morning rather uninviting, derelict and cinder- when I remove the previous day’s litter, covered Starr Garden. My mother did and water the garden. Additionally, her best to allow me to do kid things along with other neighbors, I’m alert on the sidewalk — not the best way to situations that might lead to damage, for a child to experience the outdoors. requesting the police to remove the “Fast forward 70-plus years. We skateboarders who come camera- now have Three Bears Park, where equipped to film their concrete parents and their young children and slate-destroying acrobatics. can enjoy what had been unavailable “The park is a treasure and is vital in to me at their age. Walking through encouraging young families to remain the park, seeing the joyful exuberance in our neighborhood. I can see no of kids at play made me sad to realize better recipient for my contribution what I had been denied as a child, but of time and energies.” I am very, very pleased to be part of the Friends of Three Bears Park, So now you know, a neighbors’ group that in many Al watering the gardens in Three Bears Park Al Meinster page 6 society hill Reporter

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‘FIX THE BRIX’ BY MARTHA LEVINE, CHAIR Keeping Our Bricks in A Row

uring the pandemic, it is easy Bricks are small and tend to move due Here’s how to start: Dto feel we have little control over to tree root growth and ground settling. Please email a “before” photo as Photos by Martha Levine what’s happening in our world. It’s time As a result, it has been a challenge to well as an “after photo when work is to think small! One thing we can do to keep the sidewalks level and safe, with completed to [email protected]. get a sense of control is to improve our the burden falling on the homeowners, properties inside and out. While we are not the city, to maintain their safety. • Choose a mason or arborist to do the spending more time at home and walk- work. It’s good to get a few estimates ing in the neighborhood, sidewalks Stop The Tripping for the best prices. If needed, SHCA has a list of suggested contractors. should not be an added hazard. Join the homeowners who have taken Step Back in Time advantage of the popular “Fix the Brix” • After the work is done to your satisfac- subsidy program. Hundreds have used tion, make a copy of the invoice, keep Back in the 1960s, during the Society the subsidy to make their sidewalks safe the original for yourself, and mail the Hill Redevelopment period, it was and beautiful, but we still have a lot of copy to us at: SHCA, P.O. Box 63503, decided that Society Hill would have work to do. It’s not just for our individual Philadelphia PA 19147. brick sidewalks. Our brick sidewalks sidewalks, it’s for all of us who walk daily. are not historically significant. In the • Mail in a copy of your cancelled check Stop the tripping! 1800s, there were large slate pavers, as proof of payment. not bricks, covering our sidewalks. Current SHCA members can receive a • Receive a check from SHCA within You can still see these pavers on Pine subsidy of 40 percent up to $400 of the a few weeks. and Spruce Streets in Washington total invoice; non-members can receive Square West and other places. a 40 percent subsidy up to $300 per invoice. We are all in this together.

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KEEPING POSTED BY AL CAVALARI Neighborhood Connections

id you know we have a federally funded “If they are free by D slavery memorial at the entrance to the the laws of North Liberty Bell? Written on its wall is an African word: Carolina, they Sankofa. “Go back and get things you’ve forgotten.” ought to apply It is a call for us to go back to the past and bring to those laws, and forward the experiences that will help us build a have their privilege successful future. The memorial is a contemplative established. If space set apart from the hustle of visitors that they are slaves, the surrounds it. Go to the bell’s entrance and find Constitution gives the wooden structure. Stand inside and read the them no hopes of inscriptions. You are on the same ground that being heard here.” housed enslaved people that George Washington In his farewell address This 1948 postcard shows one of Philadelphia’s brought from Mount Vernon when he lived there, upon leaving office in first federally funded housing efforts, named at the site we now call the President’s House. 1797 Washington admitted after Richard Allen, located at 11th & Poplar. This 1948 card shows one of Philadelphia’s first “I may have committed many federally funded housing efforts. Its namesake errors” which he hoped would be “viewed is Richard Allen, the founder of Mother Bethel with indulgence.” He called upon the Almighty to Church. Hundreds of houses were torn down to “mitigate the evils” such errors may have caused make way for these homes in 1941. Some say it and hoped that after 45 years of service to his destroyed the existing African American neighbor- country, the “faults of incompetent abilities will hood and that it displaced more people than it be consigned to oblivion.” The President would housed. By the 1980s it had become dilapidated be “consigned to oblivion” just two years later. and crime-ridden, leading to its demolition and His death on December 14, 1799, occasioned reconstruction in 2003. his eulogy in Congress Hall, where he was called Richard Allen was born into slavery but purchased “first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts his freedom and moved to Philadelphia where he of his countrymen.” Then on December 29, Allen became a rich businessman, real estate investor delivered his own eulogy for Washington at Mother and influential minister. Our neighborhood Bethel, down the street. By then it was known demonstrates many connections between him that Washington’s will would free his enslaved and Washington. One of Allen’s businesses was people upon the death of his wife and leave money chimney sweeping, and Washington was a customer. for their care. What would Richard Allen, who Sankofa. Although a free man, Allen was connected to as a child saw his mother sold away, who had to “Go back and Washington through slavery. In our neighborhood, purchase his own body, who, as a prominent civic get the things Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Act, written to leader, was forced to convince a court of his own you’ve forgotten.” effect the capture of people escaping from slavery humanity, say about the death of the slaveholder and return them to bondage. The standard of proof who had signed the Fugitive Slave Act? was so low, it created a cottage industry in which Allen called Washington’s passing “...an event free black people were kidnapped from the streets that causes the land to mourn... Our father and of Philadelphia and transported south. Washington friend is taken from us... to us he has been the likely signed the act in the President’s House, and sympathizing friend and tender father... and viewed Richard Allen became a victim of it. Picked up and our degraded and afflicted state with compassion accused of being a fugitive slave, Allen fortunately and pity. (He) thought we had a right to liberty... had the money, connections and standing to put he dared to do his duty, and wipe off the only on a successful legal defense. stain with which man could ever reproach him. Others were not so lucky. Four Philadelphians, ...show to the world that you hold dear who had been freed in North Carolina but were the name of George Washington.” threatened with re-enslavement due to a change Sankofa. in North Carolina law, sought relief in the first petition to Congress by a group of African Ameri- Al Cavalari is a certified member of the Association cans. Delivered in Congress Hall, their plea makes of Philadelphia Tour Guides. For a day job, he operates heart-wrenching reading. Congressman James the Flag Guys®, a flag business in upstate New York. Madison summed up the reasons for its rejection: Send comments to Al at [email protected]. page 10 society hill Reporter

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE BY CLAUDIA CARABELLI Keeping Us Healthy and Green Since 1827

ven amidst a once-in-a-century pandemic, PHS’s Watersheds program provides tech Ewe’ve seen many interesting outcomes that support along with funding to watershed no one anticipated. With so many of us spending nonprofits. As a result, thousands of trees more time at home, and often alone, individuals are planted in sensitive water protection now have both the time and the inclination to zones every year. spruce up their surroundings. Sales of houseplants Community Gardens are a great way to skyrocketed once people came to appreciate how strengthen social connections between soothing plants could be, how much plants added neighbors while increasing access to to their decor and how therapeutic it is to tend to fresh produce. PHS offers resources for plants. For one organization, this is nothing new. community gardens, like materials, seedlings The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and gardening workshops. Fresh produce (PHS), founded in 1827, has evolved over the last can be expensive. In some poorer areas of two centuries into an organization that commits our city, it’s difficult to come by even if you to using horticulture to advance the health and can afford it. These gardens donate to local well being of the Greater Philadelphia region. food pantries or share crops with their They number 300,000 strong: supporters, community. You can log on to the PHS volunteers and gardeners. PHS uses its website to join “Harvest 2020” if you’d like activities to advance four impact priorities: to grow your own food to share with others. • Creating healthy living environments Are you already a gardener looking for more options and information? PHS McLean Library • Increasing access to fresh food offers general and specialty gardening infor- • Expanding economic opportunity mation along with historical connections. Looking for a blog? “Public Landscapes in • Building meaningful social connections Bloom” may fill that void. Children’s summer How, exactly, do they accomplish all this? Many of reading and activities are available as are you have probably visited the PHS Philadelphia training programs. “Green City Teachers” Flower Show. If you haven’t, you’re missing has a curriculum for educators, parents and something spectacular. Typically, just as March gardeners to start a school garden. There is Society Hill Tree Tenders rolls around, and we’re all yearning for warmer an annual gardening contest for those who work under the auspices weather, this horticultural extravaganza fills like to share their efforts. Peruse their of PHS. the Philadelphia Convention Center with indoor GROW magazine, an award winning displays that you really must see to believe. quarterly publication of PHS. One comes away rejuvenated and eager for PHS is also responsible for many of the the first blooms of spring. It’s the nation’s largest beautiful Pop Up Gardens in Philadelphia — and longest-running event of its kind. In 2021, most notably 1438 South Street and 106 for the first time ever (thank you, COVID-19) Jamestown Avenue in Manayunk. Food and the show will be an outdoor event at an early drinks are also served at the Pop Up Gardens, summer date. The venue is yet to be announced. following all current CDC health guidelines. You may also be aware of the Society Hill As you can imagine, even though PHS uses Tree Tenders who plant and care for trees a multitude of volunteers, there is still staff in our neighborhood. You may not know that to be paid, materials to be purchased and offices they operate under the auspices of PHS, which to maintain. Like so many non-profits, they’ve oversees a multitude of other Tree Tenders seen a decline recently in much-needed funding. groups throughout the city. Tree Tenders plant If you’re so inclined, log on to www.phsonline.org over 1,300 trees each year, all done by volunteers. to donate. Even if you’re not in a position to offer A tree canopy contributes to the health of a given funds, log on to see the many things they offer area. Thirty percent is considered “good” tree and consider volunteering in some capacity canopy coverage. Philadelphia has 20 percent for a fun and rewarding experience. overall, but some areas in the city have as little as two and a half percent. There’s still much Claudia Carabelli serves on the SHCA board as work to be done. SW Quadrant Director. page 12 society hill Reporter

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Hi Tech. Hi Touch. A Winning Combination–in Person and on the Web! HOPKINSON HOUSE UNITS FOR SALE JUST LISTED #2212 - $364K - Renovated Deluxe 1 Bedroom/1 #504 - $225K - L-Shaped Studio with Sleeping Alcove Bath (1,063 sq ft) with Balcony off Living Rm Over- (600 sq ft) with BALCONY OVERLOOKING WASHINGTON looking Washington Sq; Separate Custom Office; SQUARE! Upgraded Kitchen and Bath, Freshly Painted. Hardwood Flrs; Special Lighting and Built-ins JUST SOLD #2004 - $199K- L-Shaped Studio (600 sq ft) with Sepa- throughout; Gorgeous Bath w/Stall Shower and rate Sleeping Alcove and Separate Office overlooking Kitchen w/Washer/Dryer. Washington Square – BRAND NEW HARDWOOD JUST LISTED FLOORS and Unit Freshly Painted. #2607 - $369K - Beautifully upgraded Deluxe 1 Bedrm/ HOPKINSON HOUSE UNIT FOR RENT 1 Bath (1,003 sq ft) with Balcony off Living Room, Com- pletely Upgraded Kitchen, Bath with Stall Shower, JUST LISTED #1204 - $1,425 - L-shaped studio Moldings throughout, all new Baseboards throughout, (600 sq ft) with sleeping alcove overlooking Washing- Wainscoting in Hall, Washer/Dryer. ton Square with Hardwood Floors, Buying? Selling? Newer Kitchen and Bath - Available Immediately. Please call or email your neighbor, Rosemary Fluehr Associate Broker, GRI 215-514-9884 – Cell [email protected] www.rosemaryfluehr.com – Direct 215-440-8195 530 Walnut Street, Suite 480 215-627-6005 – Office Philadelphia, PA 19106 november/december 2020 page 13

HEADHOUSE FARMERS MARKET BY GABRIELLE RUMNEY Featuring Fresh Local, Seasonal Flavors

ood Trust volunteer Sanja Martic shares this Savoie Organic Farm is a family-run farm Frecipe for Monkfish Stew that she made when where vegetables are harvested just hours before inspired by ingredients from Headhouse Farmers being brought to market. This guarantees that Market — fish from Shore Catch, Calabrian Chilies you are enjoying your produce at its peak flavor from Savoie, and tomatoes from A.T. Buzby. and nutritional value. Only certified organic farming practices are used at Savoie. All of the A.T. Buzby Farm, a 190-acre family farm in rural produce is grown without chemical pesticides, Salem County, New Jersey, grows a variety of fresh herbicides or fertilizers. These practices ensure produce for local markets. At one time, a large that soil remains healthy, creating a habitat for portion of our diet was supplied by the fertile wildlife and beneficial insects such as honey lands which surround us. Today our food system bees, praying mantis, and ladybugs. has changed. It’s common today to find imported produce in the grocery store while the local crop Shore Catch from Barnegat, NJ, brings us a Monkfish stew with fresh chilies and tomatoes. is in season and being shipped out of state! How variety of fresh seafood from the Jersey shore. crazy is that? A.T. Buzby will fill your dinner table Their selection changes seasonally due to water with fresh, nutritious produce connecting you temperature changes, and includes oysters, with the seasonal nature of local food. squid, tuna, swordfish, monkfish and more.

Let fresh produce from A.T. Buzby be the inspiration Barry and Carol Savoie from Savoie Organics help for what you will make for dinner. to keep things safe by wearing masks.

MONKFISH STEW

Ingredients Directions longer, and don’t stir this stew, just shake the pot 3 lbs monkfish tail fillets Cut the monkfish tail fillets into large chunks slightly to move ingredients around, or the fish 4 tbsp all-purpose flour or medallions. Rub the raw fish with lemon juice, will break up and you’ll end up with a soup, not 4 tbsp unsalted butter then coat lightly in the flour on a large plate. stew! Add fresh parsley and a few turns of the salt 4 tbsp olive oil and pepper mills to taste and, if using, stir in the Heat the butter and olive oil in a cast-iron kettle 4 tbsp cognac crème fraîche. (dutch oven), and once slightly bubbling, add the 3 cloves chopped garlic fish. Lightly brown on all sides, then add cognac. Notes: Serve with fragrant rice (I also like a 1 large chopped onion Take the pan off the heat and flambé off the alcohol mixture with wild rice) and add some extra fresh 3 medium diced (if you’re worried about the open flame, add the parsley with a teaspoon of lemon zest. Suggested Calabrian chilies cognac into the pan and boil it off). Using a slotted wines: a fruity and sunny ample white such as 3 large diced tomatoes spoon, place the fish medallions aside on a plate. Crozes Hermitage, Meursault, Savennières or 3 tbsp tomato purée Alsace Riesling; or a rosé such as Bandol, Côtes 1 cup fish stock* Put the same pan back on the heat, gently fry de Provence; or a red Sancerre. 1 cup white wine the onion until translucent, add the Calabrian *Chicken stock may be substituted, or if you ¼tsp cayenne pepper chiles and the tomatoes, purée, garlic, fish stock, like, here’s how to make Quick Fish Stock: salt & pepper to taste wine, cayenne, bay leaves and thyme. Bring to Put the skin and fish bone in| a large pan with a 2 bay leaves a boil then simmer and reduce (uncovered) for carrot, onion, fennel bulb, 2 bay leaves, sprig of 1 tsp thyme about 35 minutes. 2 tbsp crème fraîche thyme, 5 peppercorns and add just enough water Return the fish to the pot and heat through for 2 tbsp fresh parsley to cover. Boil, remove any scum, then cover and just a further 10 minutes. Don’t cook for much simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and cool. page 14 society hill Reporter

OUT AND ABOUT PHOTOS BY MARTHA LEVINE Signs of the Season november/december 2020 page 15

OUT AND ABOUT PHOTOS BY MARTHA LEVINE Happy Thanksgiving to All! page 16 society hill Reporter

Tents by Design has the perfect gift for your little explorer, daydreamer or child filled with endless energy and imagination. Place your order today before the holiday rush! 215.627.0131 tents-by-design.com november/december 2020 page 17

WASHINGTON SQUARE COMMITTEE UPDATE BY FRED MANFRED

hase I of certifying Washington Square as a The STAR (that’s rats spelled backwards) P nationally recognized arboretum is complete. remediation program continues to make Sherley Young is in the process of submitting the progress. The trapping strategy has been required paperwork to the International Arboretum augmented by using dry ice pellets specifically Accreditation Program. Each tree has been identi- designed to eradicate nests and dens of rats. In fied and tagged with its common and genus names. addition, INHP has approved a new rat trap, the A24. It’s CO2 driven, resets itself and functions In the coming months, we will be working for approximately two months before requiring closely with Independence National Historical maintenance. This trap will be effective in Park (INHP) to segment the park into named controlling and preventing infestations. quadrants and to have each tree mapped and numbered. INHP is in the process of hiring a Long-term remediation depends on a number of new Landscape Architect; once onboard, this factors. Eliminating their food source is essential. initiative will continue to move forward. New animal-resistant trash barrels are being Sweetgum and Gingko evaluated by INHP; however, the single largest Several trees have been removed due to disease. leaves late summer 2020, culprit is people feeding the squirrels and birds. by Michael Neff Sherley Young is in the process of identifying As a community we must educate and discourage native trees currently not represented in the people engaging in this activity. park. That list will be presented to INHP for selection, approval and placement. Our volunteers did an amazing job of growing and maintaining grass throughout the summer The lantern flies are here, and the numbers are season. We maintained a regime of aerating the growing. INHP has identified a community-safe soil, seeding and careful watering. The volunteers spray that will help retard the proliferation of were diligent in eliminating plantain weeds closest lanternfly eggs on the trees’ bark. In addition, to their planting beds. The brown spots, currently INHP is making plans to deal with the 17-year visible, are deliberate due to a focused plan of cicada and locust invasion which is expected ridding the grassy areas of “goosegrass.” mid-May 2021. The counties surrounding The goosegrass was targeted with a dose Philadelphia will be hardest hit. of 30 percent vinegar; the resulting brown The planting beds continue to evolve. In patches will soon be tilled and seeded. Sep tember we planted over 51 trees or shrubs The community has been generous with their and over 1,000 perennials. Their seasonal blooms approval of the park’s evolution and beauty along will be enjoyed in 2021. with the amazing dedication of the volunteers. INHP anticipates that the fountain will be up and Picnicking remained a popular community running for 2021. They have scheduled masonry activity throughout the summer. The Potting repairs and identified staff to maintain the fountain. Shed Cabinet is busy planning for the spring This, of course, is dependent upon no pandemic- 2021. Plant selections were submitted to related restrictions. INHP in mid-October for approval.

THE SHCA LIST OF CONTRACTORS A Perk of Membership The SHCA List of Contractors is a Everything you might need for your and exterior. Change is good. Isn’t hot item in our neighborhood! It home. While we do not endorse it time to paint that bedroom or is available now in both hard copy any particular contractor, the list repair the leaky roof? Our exten- and electronically, but you must is based upon neighbors’ sive list is an excellent resource be a current SHCA member recommendations. for all types of home renovations. to receive it. During the pandemic, many To request a list, contact Martha The 14-page list includes the of us are limiting our activities Levine at [email protected] following types of contractors, and spending more time at home. or 215-629-0727. If your list is services and categories: general Why not make your home as old, feel free to request an updated contractors, carpenters, painters, attractive and comfortable as one. Remember, it is still important roofers, electricians, plumbers, possible? This is a great time for to ask the contractor for several landscapers, masons and more. home improvements, both interior references before hiring. page 18 society hill Reporter

Selling Society Hill Towers Condominiums for 40 Years

Move‐in Ready Studio Sun‐soaked Studio

Move‐in ready studio on a high floor offering Sun‐soaked studio with a wall of wood floors, stunning river and city views floor‐to‐ceiling windows, parquet wood floors and a fully‐equipped bright kitchen. and excellent closet space. 522 sf | Offered for $179,900 522 sf | Offered for $199,900

Seamlessly Combined Three Bedroom Updated Studio

SOLD! WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO! 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom showcasing unobstructed north Light‐filled and updated studio with and east views from Old City to the Ben Franklin Bridge and oversized windows, parquet wood floors sweeping across the Delaware River! Seamlessly created and bright kitchen. from the combination of a corner 2 bedroom with the 522 sf | Offered for $215,000 adjacent 1 bedroom, this flat offers a high‐end chef's kitchen and designer appointed baths. 1,965 sf | Offered for $850,000

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] november/december 2020 page 19

OUR CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL BY CLAUDIA CARABELLI One Look and She Was Smitten

hat dog will never exercise. She’s friendly Do you have a pet “T set foot in this house,” with other dogs but tale you’d like to share? or so said Randy Schwartz. definitely prefers the Please email it to Nine years ago, while our company of humans. [email protected] neighbors Randy and her While not typically a or give us the facts and husband Jay Finestone were cuddly dog, she changed we’ll write it for you. still living in the suburbs, her tune recently. their son Adam procured When Jay had double a puppy. With both of their knee replacements in children launched, they 2019 and was struggling were enjoying an empty nest post-op, Olive clearly devoid of responsibility for sensed his distress and other living things. A puppy snuggled next to him was not part of the plan. throughout his recovery. To Randy’s complete surprise, Olive, a Boston Terrier Boston Terriers are a one look into those soulful brachycephalic (flat-faced) puppy dog eyes, and she breed. This affects their heat tolerance and also immediately fell in love with a little Boston increases the likelihood that they will snore. It’s Terrier named Olive. As they say, life is what fortuitous that Olive doesn’t share her human’s happens while we’re making other plans. bed, as she can seriously “saw some wood.” Five years later, their son moved home for six months with his canine buddy in tow. He was Boston Terriers are also prone to eye problems. working long unpredictable hours, so most of Those same endearing yet prominent eyes make Olive’s care fell to his parents. By the time Adam them more vulnerable to corneal ulcers. Olive was ready to move out, Olive was very bonded has had some in the past that healed well with to Randy and Jay, so they took the pup into their medication. This summer she faced a serious home permanently and never looked back. Over health challenge when a corneal ulcer didn’t the last four years, she’s become a part of the respond to the typical treatment. She declined family and still gets to see Adam regularly. quickly and had to be rushed to the veterinary ER at Penn Vet, where it initially looked like Boston Terriers originated as a breed in the she might lose the eye. Luckily she received U.S. in 1873. The first was a cross between a top-notch veterinary care and went home with male bull-terrier mix and a female white bulldog. her devoted “parents” who spent the first 24 They’ve been bred down in size over the years hours administering various eye drops every to a now typical weight of less than 25 pounds. hour round the clock. Olive slowly responded. In 1893, the American Kennel Club first recog- Now, other than a little discoloration of her nized them as a non-sporting breed. “Bostons” sclera (white of the eye) from scar tissue, tend to be highly intelligent and very easily she’s back to her old self. trained. They are described as a “gentle breed that typically has a strong, happy-go-lucky and Typical life for Olive includes trips to CVS, friendly personality with a merry sense of where the clerks ply her with dog biscuits. humor.” Perhaps that’s why people often She greets her many friends during walks around comment that Olive looks like she’s smiling. the neighborhood and is especially fond of her Maybe one day she’ll let us in on the joke. favorite treat-laden letter carrier, whose cart she recognizes immediately. Her days sometimes Living with Olive presented a challenge to include stolen delicacies, like cookies a neighbor Randy since she’s long suffered with multiple slipped through the mail slot — without raisins, allergies, including dogs. Fortunately, adding of course — or unguarded chicken lo mein that an air filtration system and keeping Olive out she devoured — except for the broccoli. She of their sleeping space made things manageable. once scored an entire blueberry cake! Olive, like most members of her breed, is pretty When it comes to low maintenance. As friendly as she is, she doesn’t When it’s time for a nap, you can find her perched naptime, Olive perches demand too much attention. She seldom barks, atop the highest pile of blankets and pillows she atop the highest pile requires little grooming and needs only moderate can find. It’s definitely a dog’s life worth living. of pillows she can find. page 20 society hill Reporter

233 ‐ 241 S. 6th Street

SALE PENDING! WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO!

Completely updated 2 bedroom (converted from a 3 bedroom), 2.5 bathroom with a private balcony on a high floor of Independence Place, Tower I. This Beautifully maintained 1 bedroom condo offering a pri‐ sun‐soaked residence offers high‐end upgrades, designer vate balcony showcasing treetop views of Society Hill, finishes and see‐forever river city and views. light‐filled rooms and a renovated bathroom. 1,961 sf | Offered for $1,100,000 940 sf | Offered for $339,900

Recently Sold by Allan Domb Real Estate at Independence Place 2001‐II 1801‐II 1602‐II 2404‐I 809‐I 1304‐I 1807‐I 208‐II 2210‐II 907‐I 2007‐I 502‐I 312‐I 2211‐II 1710‐II

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] november/december 2020 page 21

SOUTH STREET HEADHOUSE DISTRICT BY CLAIRE BATTEN Making Lemonade out of Lemons

he Headhouse House Plaza beautification the situation. The owners have been using Outside Dining T project is going according to plan. Mike some of the curbside space opened up during The following Harris of the South Street Headhouse Business construction for additional outdoor seating. restaurants have District expects the majority of the construction Outdoor dining has proven to be extremely outdoor seating: to be completed between Thanksgiving and popular throughout the summer. Curbside dining MilkBoy Christmas. “The area is definitely beginning to has flourished on both the 400 and the 700 blocks Bistro Romano take shape,” says Mike. “The curbs are visible, of South Street. As Mike explains, “Coronavirus Malbec the new lighting is in, you can see where the safety precautions have forced businesses to be benches will be going, and we’re getting ready Xochitl creative. We’ve been using the Shambles space Cavanaugh’s Headhouse to plant many new trees before the end of the and even the cobblestone streets as additional Pizzeria Stella year’s growing season.” dining space for the restaurants that run Pietro’s Pizza Many neighbors may not realize it, but the alongside the Shambles. And we know Paddy Whacks majority of the new stonework is for stormwater the restaurants’ customers are liking it.” Queen and Rook management to help water runoff in the area. What Happens When Temperatures Drop? While it may not be glamorous, it is essential LaNonna work from which many businesses and local All the Philadelphia Business Districts (such His and Hers residents will benefit. as Old City, Fishtown, Center City and South O’Neals Street Headhouse) are putting their heads CryBaby The only change to the general beautification together to figure out how to continue outside Woolly Mammoth plan is to the fountain. While the fountain was dining into the fall and even the winter. The Hungry Pigeon a high-profile feature in the neighborhood, the Districts are waiting on guidelines from the city, Bahn Mi & Bottles planners decided, for health and safety reasons, but in the meantime, they’ll start getting creative Brauhaus Schmitz that the fountain should be converted into when the temperature starts to change. Mike an additional seating area. Harris believes that this trend to outside dining BeerLove Olly’s “We have to say thanks to all the businesses is good for the neighborhood. “It has a great ModoMio that have been so supportive of this development influence; outside dining seems to calm South Emmy Squared project,” Mike adds. While the construction has Street down, so we’re keen to continue this gone on, local businesses such as CVS, Bistro into next year. We’ll be loaning heat lamps Spread Bagelry Romano and Society Hill Veterinary Hospital to businesses to facilitate this trend.” Tattooed Mom have all shown incredible patience. And Twisted For further information about the Headhouse South Street Diner Tail has even managed to make lemonade from Plaza project contact [email protected]. Twisted Tail

Dining outdoors at the Shambles page 22 society hill Reporter

The Lippincott 227 S. 6th Street 604 S. Washington Square

SOLD! WE CAN SELL YOURS, TOO! Deluxe One Bedroom Bright and sunny south‐facing Combination of two adjacent units to create 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom with high a deluxe 1 bedroom plus home office, ceilings, high‐end finishes, custom 2 bathroom overlooking Washington millwork, a chef’s kitchen open to the Square; this home has endless potential. Sun‐soaked One Bedroom great room, marble appointed baths, 1,443 sf | Offered for $550,000 Spacious 1 bedroom with incredible and a luxurious master suite. natural light, a private balcony 1,601 sf | $1,175,000 and parquet wood floors. Leased through 8/31/21. 778 sf | Offered for $289,900 We are pleased to announce that over the past four years, One Bedroom on High Floor we have been respon‐ Lovingly cared for 1 bedroom on high floor featuring private terrace with city views, sible for selling more updated kitchen, modern bathroom and brand new carpeting. condominiums at 1,003 sf | Offered for $349,900 The Lippincott than any other REALTOR .® Light‐filled One Bedroom Light‐filled 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom on high floor with large balcony, 1SW 2NE unobstructed southern city views and washer/dryer. 5NW 5NE South‐facing One Bedroom 778 sf | Offered for $259,900 South‐facing and spacious 1 bedroom, 5C 1 bathroom offering a private terrace, parquet wood floors, incredible natural light and excellent closet space. 1,003 sf | Offered for $289,900 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] november/december 2020 page 23

IN MEMORIAM

e regret to inform you of the recent He graduated from the Virginia nurturing young children. Born in Wdeaths of four long-time neighbors. Theological Seminary. His first LeRoy, Illinois, she studied piano assignment was as an associate minister from an early age and played the Thomas K. Gilhool at Grace Church in Mount Airy. He then organ at church and the piano at school. Tom Gilhool died on established the Church of the Redemption After she was persuaded by her parents August 22 in Massa- in Southampton. Rev. Trimble joined to study “something practical” at the chusetts after suffer- Episcopal Academy as chaplain in 1963. University of Illinois, and later in graduate school at the University ing a heart attack Starting in 1978, Rev. Trimble became of Wisconsin, she chose early child while on vacation. the 18th rector of Christ Church, the development as a career. He was 81 years old. founding church of the Episcopal Tom was a lawyer denomination in America. The church Her longest assignment was as a who fought for the rights of children, served as a parish and historic site, kindergarten teacher at St. Peter’s the disabled and the poor. He was lead roles that often conflicted. School in our neighborhood. Ann’s circle of friends grew through school, counsel in two landmark federal cases He built the congregation by opening the neighborhood and church acquaintances, that changed treatment of the nation’s church to what was then an increasingly as well as shared interests such as disabled people. He believed they had gentrified neighborhood. civil rights that could be enforced knitting and reading. “We developed some community things through litigation, something that Divorced from John Davies, with for people to use,” he said. “We had a hadn’t been done before. whom she had two children, she married gym, a basketball court, and we had kids Doug Wilkerson, a pediatric neurologist “Those who knew Tom recall his in from the neighborhood — that was in 1986. Besides her husband, she is creativity, passionate spirit, perseverance, kind of neat. We also called on new survived by her son and daughter, driving energy and leadership,” said a people in Society Hill, and we got them two stepsons, eight grandchildren statement from the Public Interest Law to come to Christ Church.” Center, where he was chief counsel for and two nephews. In 1956, he married Nadine Canfield. a quarter century. “When he found a Richard Ketterer path forward for advancing justice, he After her death, he married Gail inspired others to follow and gave them Hutchison in 1996. Rick Ketterer died on August 29 after the tools and knowledge to do so.” Besides his wife, Gail, he is survived a ten-year battle by a son, two stepdaughters and five Tom earned a bachelor’s degree from with cancer. He grandchildren. A daughter and son Lehigh University in 1960 and both a was 73 years old. master’s degree in political science and predeceased him. His good friend Rick a law degree from Yale University in Ann Wilkerson 1964, the same year he married law Herskovitz eulogized school classmate Gillian Russell. After Ann Wilkerson died him with these words: “Purpose. law school, he joined the Philadelphia peacefully at home Resilience. Devotion. Rick Ketterer law firm Dilworth Paxson. He served on September 9 from always lived this way, resulting in 73 as Governor Robert P. Casey’s secretary complications from years of tremendous impact on countless of education from 1987 to 1989, then chronic obstructive lives. The inspiring father. The loving taught eighth grade for a year at North pulmonary disease. life-partner. The brilliant consultant. The role model brother. The guardian Philadelphia’s Vaux Middle School. She lived in a row- angel for those less fortunate. The father house with a tiny backyard, but that Besides a brother and a sister, he and friend to anyone who needed it. didn’t keep her from interacting with is survived by his wife, daughter, He was a reminder of human potential butterflies. Farmers and flower growers son and four grandchildren. and all that is good in this world. throughout the Philadelphia area knew Rick’s legacy will be carried on via James A. Trimble she loved monarch butterflies. Late his son, Ted (and daughter-in-law Inaja in August, at the start of the monarch The Rev. James Lima); daughter, Tara (and son-in-law fourth-generation migration, they would Armstrong Trimble Dr. Will Chen and granddaughter Ori); bring her milkweed branches with Jr., 89, former rector brother Drew; sister, Barbara Neubauer; butterfly eggs attached that she would of Christ Church in life partner, Deb Maher; in addition nurture and the release on their journey. Old City, died Sep- to amazing and supporting friends, tember 6 of renal While her favorite avocation was colleagues and family. While Rick’s failure while vaca- watching and nurturing butterflies, body might have left us, his garden tioning on Martha’s Vineyard. Ann’s vocation was teaching and is just beginning to bloom.” page 24 society hill Reporter

SMART RESPONSIVE EXPERIENCED BARI SHOR Real Estate MatchMaker

Whether you’re selling or buying a home in amazing Center City, Bari Shor cares and delivers for you. I am your neighbor, let me be your Realtor,® too!

Cell: 215-287-5260 [email protected] Office: 215 627-6005

Chairman's Circle Diamond Award Top ½ of 1% of BHHS Network Nationwide Accredited Luxury Home Specialist I am a professional, full-time real estate agent as well as your neighbor. n Pamela D. Laws PHILADELPHIA’S PREMIER ABR, ALHS, SRES, ASP IN-HOME PERSONAL CARE AGENCY Like many of my clients, At Home Helpers, our caregivers undergo a detailed background check prior to employment. Society Hill is my home. As a licensed homecare agency, employees I specialize in Center City are fully insured and bonded eliminating your because I love Philadelphia. Let me market and sell your fall prevention and dementia care. Our services include: home for the top price in the • Dementia care • Meal Preparation minimum amount of time! • Fall prevention care • Companionship • Personal hygiene • Direct Link Personal • Light housekeeping Response System 215.783.7117 [email protected] • Medication reminders • And much more... WWW.PHILADELPHIAPROPERTIES.NET. Call Me for a No-Cost Assessment

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC Andrea Hawley at (267) 402-7271 november/december 2020 page 25

MEMBERSHIP REPORT BY MATT DEJULIO SHCA Membership Down From 2019

HCA membership totaled 1,130 by early S October — down 4.5 percent from last year’s total of 1,183 (our all-time record high was 1,206 Membership in 2018). This year we welcomed 65 new members, Application compared to 107 new members last year. There were 127 non-renewals, versus 107 last year. Name This year’s renewal notices will go out in early November via email with a later follow-up by Address Apt. # postal mail. This will be the first time we will send our initial request by email. Those who still prefer City, State, Zip to pay by check may always sign up at any time Home Phone by filling out the adjacent form and mailing it to our post office box. We hope most will renew Work Phone online so we can avoid unnecessary postage Email and handling costs. (print clearly) If you renew before December 31, you will be IMPORTANT: Today, most everyone communicates via email. Please be sure that we placed in a drawing for a gift certificate to a local have your current email address — so that you can receive important updates between restaurant. New members this year who joined publication of our community newsletter. All SHCA emails will be judiciously screened, after June 1 will be grandfathered through 2021. and rarely will we send emails more than once a week. Nor will we share your email address with anyone else. This convenient, 21st-century system helps save our civic Why is your membership so important? Besides association postage costs, while keeping you regularly informed. providing funding for our many neighborhood Residential Memberships Business Memberships improvement projects, such as graffiti control, l $ 50 Basic Household Membership l $ 100 Institutions — weekly sidewalk cleaning and plantings in l $ 40 Senior/Student/Single 5+ employees Washington Square, numbers speak volumes. When our board advocates on your behalf l $ 100 Federal Friend l $ 60 Institutions — regarding zoning changes, real estate taxes, l $ 150 Georgian Grantor fewer than 5 employees crime problems, ramp issues, trash receptacles, l $ 300 Jefferson Benefactor street lighting, bus rerouting, etc., it makes l $ 500 Washington Benefactor a greater impact if they can say they speak on behalf of the majority of residents. l $ 1,000 Benjamin Franklin Benefactor Without member dues, SHCA would cease to Additional Contributions function. Protect your neighborhood and your $______Washington Square Beautification $______Franklin Lights real estate investment. Sign up today! $______Sidewalk Cleaning/Graffiti Removal $______Tree Tenders Email [email protected] if you have any $______Fix the Brix $______McCall School questions or wish to comment on why you are not a member. All comments will be shared Total Enclosed $______with the board, which is representative of every l Charge VISA/MasterCard: quadrant in our unique, historic neighborhood. Number Exp Date Matt DeJulio is a retired publishing executive. He has served SHCA as its administrator since 2001. Signature The following topics are of special interest to me. I welcome receipt of email up- PARK, AMERICA! dates on these topics. A limited number of monthly parking l Clean-Up Day l Washington Square l Zoning & Historic Preservation spaces are available at the renovated l Franklin Lights l Social Events l 5th Street Development lot at 511 S. Front Street, between l Dilworth House l Property Taxes l Local Crime Incidents South and Lombard Streets. l Reporter l Fundraising and Alerts

If interested, contact Ed Sullivan Please return completed application to: with Park America at 610-637-6832. Society Hill Civic Association, P.O. Box 63503, Philadelphia, PA 19147 page 26 society hill Reporter

NIFTY NEIGHBORS IN MY BACKYARD BY JANE BIBERMAN Joan Tropp: Ultimate Volunteer

egistered nurse Joan Rollins Tropp Since their last dog died, Joan and Tom R has been active with SHCA ever have been pet-less. “I miss owning a pet, since she moved to Society Hill 23 years but as we love to travel it has given us a ago. She was living and working in Bryn sense of freedom that we enjoy. We have Mawr, when she met and married her been to Kuwait, Bhutan, Africa, England husband, Tom. A retired hospice nurse, — my daughter lives in London — Joan finds time to volunteer for many France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco things. “I served briefly on the SHCA — where we got engaged — Germany, Board when we first moved into the city, Switzerland, Austria — where Tom’s and have remained active as a Block parents are from. We look forward to Captain and Chair of the Washington traveling more.” They love to eat out. Square Affair (WSA) in 2018. This year “My favorite lunch is the quiche at I was to be co-chair with Fred Manfred Caribou Cafe! I have missed Bistro of WSA, which unfortunately had to be La Minette, McGillian’s and Judy’s — postponed due to COVID-19.” that was a long time ago! We are loving eating outside now that the restaurants Joan also takes care of one of the are reopening; it feels very European.” gardens in the Square. “And actually, since March, I’ve been making daily She also loves having the Ritz movie rounds in the late afternoons to pick theaters so close. “That was one of our up trash throughout the Square. I am favorite routines — Friday night movies Joan and her husband, Tom, in Sicily. delighted to say trash has decreased, and dinner. We’ll get back there soon, even though there has been an increase a hospice nurse and step away from the I hope.” In the meantime, Joan loves to in people using the Square.” increasingly complicated administrative read, do needlepoint and keep up with her kids, none of whom live in the area. She has been active with the Philly part. Which she did and loved it. She She tries to take advantage of the many AIDS Thrift store, and, pre-pandemic, retired as a Hospice Nurse with the things Society Hill and Philadelphia volunteered there twice a week. She Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) have to offer. had just started volunteering with Hub in 2014. of Hope doing mending when COVID-19 Her husband, Tom, a retired lawyer “My concerns include the homeless came, and she hopes to get back to that. who is very active with AJC (American and the effect that has on city life and on them, and people who leave their Joan completed nursing school at Jewish Committee) and the Foreign cigarette and cigar butts in Washington the University of Pennsylvania, and Policy Research Institute, is very Square. Do they think they will just went on to get her master’s degree in supportive of Joan’s volunteering. evaporate? They don’t.” Additionally, organizational development at Antioch. Like all Society Hillers, they love the of course, as a gardener, she would Along with Sandy Karger, she started walkability of their neighborhood and prefer not to see any dogs or children one of the earliest area hospice programs particularly Delancey Street, where they romping in the flowerbeds! at Bryn Mawr Hospital in the late 70s. live. Joan has a son, a daughter and When she moved into the city, she three stepdaughters, all of whom are Jane Biberman, is a freelance writer who decided she wanted to be exclusively grown, with families of their own. is a longtime contributor to the Reporter. november/december 2020 page 27 page 28 society hill Reporter

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