July/August 2012 The Newsletter of The Society Hill Civic Association

SOCIETYHILL Reporter www.societyhillcivic.org Will Hole in Ground Soon Be History? ociety Hill neighbors packed the 2nd floor Although the Philadelphia Planning Commission S of Bistro Romano (120 Lombard Street) supported the design, many in the community on June 14th — filling the space to capacity. felt that such a tall building would not fit into They were anxious to discover what Toll the low-rise historic landscape of Head House. Brothers proposed to do with the concrete The economic downturn eventually killed the wasteland in the heart of our community financing for the project. at 401 S. Front Street. Enter Toll Brothers, a residential and commercial The 250,000-square-foot NewMarket pavilion real estate development company based in Past: (bounded by Front, Lombard, Pine and 2nd Horsham, Pennsylvania, which purchased the NewMarket Square Streets) opened in 1975, housing boutiques property last November. The company has and restaurants — and was pretty much in already put its mark on Philly with a highly trouble from the start. Since closing in 1987, successful residential community located at it has captured the eye of many developers, but Naval Square. The former home for retired all the proposals fizzled for a variety of reasons. sailors (from 1834 to 1976) is now a gated community that combines restoration and Bridgman Development, a Philadelphia partner- re-purposing with new townhouse construction. ship, was the last to float an ambitious plan for the site, which was named Stamper Square. It The large crowd listened attentively while called for a 15-story tower that had a 150-room Division Vice President Brian Emmons presented Present: high-end hotel with associated retail and restau- a plan for a 73-unit, four-story condo complex Concrete wasteland rant space, about 75 condos and underground with underground parking. Toll Brothers is parking that would accommodate 350 vehicles. aiming to get $450-$500 per square foot for the condos, which means a 1,000-square-foot (one bedroom) unit will cost between $450,000- $500,000, but also include deeded parking. The exterior of the structure will be a brick facade with a green roof — covered in vegetation to collect and clean rainwater, provide insulation and reduce utility costs. In addition to the brick exterior, the plan calls for stone at the base and elements of glass and metal. The landscaped plazas and courtyards inside and around the perimeter will contain a low level of lighting, plenty of trees, shrubbery and benches and Future: new condo complex proposed for Front Street continued on page 3

CLEANSWEEP! Spring Clean-Up Day brought out the brooms and dustpans. Fifth-graders from St. Peter’s School lent their elbow grease to the occasion while folks on Delancey Street did their part in cleaning up our neighborhood. Many thanks to Co-chairs Bob Curley and Spencer Finch for all their hard work. PAGE 2 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

SOCIETYHILL Liberty Tree Reporter by Thomas Paine Managing Editor Press Release Liaison Sandra Rothman c/o Matt DeJulio A song written early in the Columnists [email protected] American Revolution. Marilyn Appel Advertising Manager Claire Batten Lenore Hardy In a chariot of light from the regions of day, Jane Biberman [email protected] Matt DeJulio The Goddess of Liberty came; Submission Deadlines Bernice Hamel Ten thousand celestials directed the way Martha Levine September/October Issue And hither conducted the dame. Jim Murphy Advertising: August 1st Keri White Editorial: August 10th A fair budding branch from the gardens above, Contributors Society Hill Where millions with millions agree, Civic Association She brought in her hand as a pledge of her love, Hans Bombeck Joan Spain P. O. Box 63503 And the plant she named Liberty Tree. Donna Thomas Philadelphia, PA 19147 tel: 215-629-1288 The celestial exotic struck deep in the ground, Graphic Design Like a native it flourished and bore; [email protected] Website The fame of its fruit drew the nations around, www.societyhillcivic.org To seek out this peaceable shore.

Unmindful of names or distinction they came, Submissions For freemen like brothers agree; We want to hear from you. Our goal is to print news of With one spirit endued, they one friendship pursued, interest to Society Hillers — happenings in and around And their temple was Liberty Tree. our community for residents, businesses and professionals. Direct your editorial submissions and/or queries to Beneath this fair tree, like the patriarchs of old, Sandra Rothman by phone at 717-715-5791 or email Their bread in contentment they ate, [email protected]. To publicize an event, submit Unvexed with the troubles of silver and gold, all press releases directly. The cares of the grand and the great. Materials must be submitted in writing — via mail or email — and must include the name of a contact person. With timber and tar they Old England supplied, Edited submissions will be considered for publication And supported her power on the sea; if the subject matter is community-related and if space Her battles they fought, without getting a groat, allows. Otherwise, upcoming events of interest may be For the honor of Liberty Tree. listed in the Community Calendar. Letters to the Editor will be considered for publication only if signed and But hear, O ye swains, ‘tis a tale most profane, the writer provides contact information. How all the tyrannical powers, Kings, Commons, and Lords, are uniting amain To cut down this guardian of ours; Society Hill Civic Association From the east to the west blow the trumpet to arms Board Officers and Directors Through the land let the sound of it flee, President Northeast Quadrant Let the far and the near, all unite with a cheer, Steven Weixler 2012 Heather Steiner In defence of our Liberty Tree. Vice President 2013 Lorna Katz Lawson 2014 Lenore Hardy Jim Moss Northwest Quadrant Secretary 2012 Diane Rossheim George Dowdall 2013 Lawrence Burstein Treasurer 2014 Sissie Lipton Marc Feldman Southeast Quadrant Directors-at-Large 2012 Laura Temple 2013 Robert Curley 215. 886. 6111 | Oreland, Pa Mike Duffy Bernice Hamel 2014 Jane Ahn 215. 725. 3637 | Philadelphia, Pa Certified Arborist George Kelley PD-1766A Southwest Quadrant 215. 572. 6937 | Fax Martha Levine 21 years experience Kim Williams 2012 Marilyn Appel www.libertytreecare.com 2013 Melvin Buckman 2014 Francisco Carreno JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Summer, Sidewalks and Sheds

t’s summer in Society Hill and while many Fairmount Park facility for repair. Since the I of us are escaping Philadelphia’s heat and Park is part of the Society Hill Historic District, humidity at the shore or faraway places, activity the building must be restored to its original continues to keep our neighborhood in good condition by replacing materials as needed shape and always improving. and repairing original materials where possible. We expect it to be back on a new foundation The city is finally installing ramps at sometime in August. The northwest shed is street corners to comply with the Americans in better condition; it just needs minor repairs With Disabilities Act. The Society Hill Civic and new paint. That’s lucky for our funding Association (SHCA)worked hard with the effort, since the building houses a good bit city to negotiate a design that both satisfies of the electrical service for the Square! the requirements of the law and respects the atmosphere of our historic environment. At press time, we do not know the outcome Steven Weixler, Although it meant a long delay, the work is now of the city government’s overhaul of the real President being done and the City is insuring us quality estate tax code (as a part of the budget process). control as the project progresses. After alter- We know that the tax reform, mandated by law, ations are made to the sidewalks, allowing a is needed and will be a welcome improvement smooth slope to the ramps, the streets will be over the old, unfair system. SHCA is a member repaved. We hope to be finished by late summer. of the Tax Fairness Coalition, a group of more than 20 civic associations advocating for a fair You may have noticed that one of the guard and logical process of real estate value ass ess - sheds is missing from the southeast corner ment. We expect to continue that advocacy during of Washington Square Park. SHCA, together City Council’s summer recess and into the fall. with a very generous benefactor, has funded the renovation and repair of this deteriorated I wish all of my neighbors a pleasant and relax- outbuilding. It was removed with the assistance ing summer. In the fall there will be new projects, of the National Park Service and sent to a and new opportunities to serve our community.

Where Is the Guardhouse?

oan Spain, a resident of Society Hill and Washington Square Society Ja member of SHCA, was determined to Hill Fund, SHCA Washington have the dilapidated guardhouse in Washington Square Fund, and backing Square repaired immediately! She called on provided by INHP. Sissie Lipton, chair of SHCA’s Washington Square We all look forward to the Committee, to get the job done. With the help of return of the restored guard- Independence National Historical Park (INHP), house — another improvement Fairmount Park Trust, SHCA’s legal committee made possible through the and SHCA’s board approval, the historic guard- efforts of your civic association. house was removed in early June. It will take The southeast shed (pictured Tax-deductible donations may still approximately two months for the restoration above) has been removed for be made to the Society Hill Fund, to be completed. repairs. The northwest shed earmarked “Washington Square,” will be repaired in place. Funding was made possible by some very and mailed to P.O. Box 63503, generous donations made through the Philadelphia, PA 19147.

In This Issue… Page 7 Page 11 Page 23 Homestead Tax Exemption Meet New South Street Director Just How Historic Are We? Page 8 Pages 14-15 Page 26 Exploring the City: Out and About: Nifty Neighbors: Fort Mifflin Society Hill House Tour Tails of Washington Square PAGE 4 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

Toll Brothers’ New Proposal continued from page 1

will be gated to restrict use to the condo owners. The developers hope to have Zoning Board For public access and use, Toll Brothers provides approval by August and construction documents a common area off 2nd Street. They would completed by December. If all goes as expected, substi tute the existing raised deck with a ramped Toll Brothers will break ground in March 2013, park terminated by a water feature, building when they hope to complete construction in 16 identification signage and locked entrance gate. months. Since the company owns the property The parking garage will have 108 spaces, approx- (and doesn’t need construction financing) they imately twice as many as are required by code. expect to start the ball rolling soon. After condo owners’ demand has been satisfied, At the close of the presentation, SHCA President neighbors will have the option to purchase a space Steve Weixler directed the ZHP Committee to at a price which has not yet been determined . further review the proposal in the context of comments made at the public meeting and other Site Plan of the zoning and historic preservation considerations. Toll Brothers proposal for 401 S. Front Street An Update: On June 20th, the Board accepted (bordered by 2nd, Front, ZHP’s recommendation to support Toll’s design Pine & Lombard Streets). in concept — pending their agreement to continue to involve the community in the design development of two issues. The first of these is the public space: SHCA wants assurance that the plaza's character, materials, lighting and signage are respectful of the historic context of the neighborhood and, most especially, the Head House. In addition, it’s important that the material choices for the building facades facing Front and 2nd Streets are of enduring quality (real brick rather than brick prefab panels, for example) and that they avoid glitzy finishes that don’t echo the historic context.

WEIXLER PETERSON LUZI

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THE GREENING OF SOCIETY HILL MANY THANKS One Tree at a Time

etween its 2009 inception and this of New Jersey and Delaware.) As of early B coming fall, the program TreeVitalize June, half of that goal had been reached. and its Society Hill Tree Tenders will have We encourage all Reporter readers to planted 50 young trees in our neighbor- consider joining this effort. To learn more, hood. This program is sponsored by the visit www.plantonemillion.org/. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) Learn more about the benefit of trees and Philadelphia’s Parks & Recreation A group of very enthusiastic by becoming a Tree Tender yourself! Department (PPR) and is committed to volunteers helped weed and PHS offers hands-on tree care training. plant lots of annuals, perennials, restoring the tree canopy in Philadelphia Three evening sessions cover tree biology, 20 azaleas and 4 hydrangea bushes and beyond. identification, planting, and proper care in Washington Square Park on May 17th. Thanks to these neighbors as While these trees were provided free of — highly educational and fun, too. well as Terrain at Styers, in Glen charge by PHS/PPR, it is local volunteers Mills, Penn sylvania, for providing Many thanks to Hans Bombeck, who have made an equally important such a colorful and interesting who has led Tree Tenders for the assortment of planting materials. contribution to this accomplishment. past several years and welcome to Without their dedication, elbow grease, and Laura Lane DeVoe — recently elected a willingness to get their fingernails dirty, Remember the as the group’s new leader. She is sup - we might still look at a good number of ported by an active team of local “tree three basic steps dead trees and empty pits. The Society Hill huggers.” Read more about them and to caring for your community owes them much gratitude. their plans for the future by clicking on trees during the Every new tree counts towards PLANT facebook.com/SocietyHillTreeTenders. summer: water, ONE MILLION, a multi-state tree-planting You may also contact Laura at weed and 215-925-8486, or via e-mail at campaign (encompassing 13 counties in mulch. southeastern Pennsylvania, and parts [email protected].

Complimentary Consultation We Call our office at 215-844-TREE to make an appointment offer a for a consultation to review your property.

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A WHOLE LOT OF DIGGING GOING ON Ramps Project in Full Swing

he Philadelphia Streets Department recently Resurfacing of Streets T re-started the paving and ramps project All of the numbered streets (2nd-8th) from begun in March 2011. It will proceed throughout Lombard to Walnut will be re-milled — the summer and will be supervised by an correcting many of the surface problems we SHCA committee. David Perri, Chief Design have been struggling with over the last few years Engineer and our project liaison, said that all (unevenness, potholes, gullies, etc.).You may numbered streets will be improved in two ways: recall that the Streets Department milled Spruce, Sidewalk Corner Ramps Pine and Lombard Streets nearly two years ago in anticipation of the bike lanes, but did not com- Only the “ramp” portion of the street corners plete the numbered streets due to lack of money. will be constructed in cement. The rest of the corner — the sloped “wings” on the side of Because of SHCA’s input to the Streets the ramps and the landings above the ramps — Department, many of the previously anticipated will be constructed in brick per SHCA’s request. cheek walls (cement curb-like structures poured The mat with the truncated domes will be black, next to the building foundations that are exposed and the surrounding cement ramp will be tinted when the sidewalk must be lowered to obtain the a dark grey color. In order to achieve our goal required incline for the ramp) will be eliminated. of uniformity, the City will redo all existing ramps Cheek walls will be used only as a last resort. to conform to the new design. Since this work is Streets paved with Belgian blocks will not be being funded by federal stimulus money, it must milled nor have their ramps rebuilt. For more be in compliance with the Americans With information, contact SHCA Administrator Matt Disabilities Act that guides the specifications de Julio by calling 215-629-0727 or emailing of materials and slopes. [email protected]. JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 7

In Case Property Tax Reassessments Are Passed, Homestead Tax Exemption Must Be Filed Now! eal estate taxes in Philadelphia are in chaos. With R city and school budgets now pending, there is confusion and uncertainty about the planned full value reassessments, the new tax millage rate, and various buffering proposals. Currently there is no Homestead Exemption in Philadelphia, but if it becomes available for 2013 taxes, eligibility will require filing the application by July 31, 2012. A Homestead Exemption means that if you own your home and live in it, you can qualify for a reduction of your home’s reassessment — thereby reducing your tax bill. Rental homes or vacation homes do not qualify. Mixed-use properties qualify and will benefit from the exclusion for the portion of the property that is the owners’ primary residence. There are no age or income restrictions, and all homeowners in the city are encouraged to apply. In addition to qualifying for a homestead exemption on your property, you may also qualify for additional programs that can help reduce your real estate taxes. The form and instructions are available on the Office of Property SEE GRAFFITI? Assessment website at www.phila.gov/opa. Taxpayers may also Help SHCA Board member George Kelley to keep call the Office of Property Assessment Customer Service line our neighborhood clean and beautiful! Report at 215-686-4334 and one of the call representatives will mail out any graffiti in Society Hill and it will be cleaned an application to the property owner. Applications received after up ASAP. To report, email [email protected] the deadline for this year will be considered for tax year 2014. or phone 215-629-1288. PAGE 8 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

EXPLORING THE CITY BY JIM MURPHY Historic Fort Mifflin

hanks to the popular Disney TV mini-series 10 cannon — and suffered 240 casualties T “Davy Crockett,” there’s probably not a child in the effort. So short were the Americans on in the U.S. who hasn’t heard about the Battle of ammunition that anyone retrieving a cannonball the Alamo. That 1836 siege lasted 13 days. Some that could be fired back was promised a gill 182 to 257 Texans were killed, along with 400 to of rum — about four ounces. 600 Mexicans, and the battle became a rallying “Conditions were simply unimaginable,” says cry for Texas independence. Elizabeth (Beth) Beatty, executive director Contrast that with the 6-day siege of Fort Mifflin, at Fort Mifflin. Supplies were gone, it was a wood and stone structure located nine miles unseasonably cold, and the parade grounds from center city Philadelphia, on a muddy island were iced over. Even the mud froze overnight. in the Delaware River. What happened here may The weather hurt the Continental soldiers in well have changed American history. But few On a muddy little another critical way. With unusually heavy rains people are aware of it. island near the flooding the back channel, two British ships were airport sits An extraordinary assault able to sail up the channel and bombard the “The Fort that In 1777 (from November 10th to the 15th), fort’s only unfinished walls at point-blank range. saved America” 2,000 British troops — with a fleet of ships British Marines even climbed up to the crow’s and 228 cannon — bombarded the 22-acre fort nest of the HMS Vigilant and threw hand with more than 10,000 cannon balls, eventually grenades at soldiers inside the fort. destroying the structure. With the fort walls collapsing around them from Inside the fort, a cold, wet and hungry garrison the incredible shelling, most of the Americans of 400 men held off the British — with just evacuated after nightfall on November 15th, JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 9

EXPLORING THE CITY

This 1777 map of the Delaware River (that’s Philadelphia in the upper right) shows the plan of attack on Fort Mifflin, with an inset map detailing the lines of fire from cannon on land and on ships.

rowing with muffled oars across the river to near- by Fort Mercer (now part of Redbank Battlefield Park, Gloucester, New Jersey). The 40 men remaining at Fort Mifflin set fire to what was left of the structure, and then joined their comrades. But they left the fort’s flag flying, and they never surrendered. What they accomplished: The troops at Fort Mifflin bottled up 250 British ships in the Delaware River for about six weeks, destroying several — and preventing food, clothing, gunpowder and munitions from reaching the British army in Philadelphia. Jay Tittermary, a long-time staff guide Photo courtesy of Fort and educator at Fort Mifflin, fires a Mifflin on the Delaware. By holding “to the last extremity,” as General cannon during a reenactment. George Washington had ordered, the men at Fort Mifflin gave Washington time to move his exhausted troops to Valley Forge for the winter — and very possibly saved the country. F A S T F A C T S After the war, Fort Mifflin was rebuilt. It served as a prison during the Civil War, and a naval Annual visitors: 15,000 from all over the world munitions depot during World War I and II. Named for: General Thomas Mifflin, who helped Beth Beatty, who became executive director in finish the fort after concerns about war with 2010, views the fort as a veteran who has served Britain grew in 1775 and sacrificed for the country over an extended Number of British cannon against the fort: 228 period of time. Defending American cannon: 10 Visiting Fort Mifflin, with its 15 buildings, is a Cannonballs that hit the fort: over 10,000 truly unique experience. I know of no military facility like it in the Philadelphia area. Unusual activity: Fort Mifflin is known as one of the most haunted sites in America This historic fort has something for everyone: Oddity: Captain John Montrésor of the Royal Living history, military reenactments and even Engineers designed Fort Mifflin, then was sent a strong reputation for paranormal activity. here by the British to destroy it. It’s time-travel made simple — to a place of Location: Fort Mifflin and Hog Island Roads, remarkable valor and supreme sacrifice. Philadelphia, PA 19153 Leatherneck, the magazine of the Marines, Phone: 215-685-4167 perfectly summed up Fort Mifflin’s performance Open: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday – Sunday, in a story published in 1956. It concluded: “at the March 1 – December 15; call at other times finish, the little river fort hadn’t been defeated. Admission: Adults, $6; Seniors, $5; It had simply been obliterated.” Children 6-12 and Veterans, $3; For donations to Fort Mifflin, or to volunteer, Children 5 years and under, Free go to: www.FortMifflin.us, or call 215-685-4167. Web site: www.fortmifflin.us PAGE 10 SOCIETYHILL Reporter parallel design

Find our designs online.

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PHILLY FOODLOVERS BY CLAIRE BATTEN New South Street Headhouse District Director

ike Harris, recently appointed Executive “We’ll create greater street life,” Mike adds, MDirector of the South Street Headhouse “and promote events and spaces that are District (SSHD), is a man with a past — and welcoming to children and families, as well most of it is local. Once upon a time, he lived as appealing to the nighttime crowd. This in an apartment above the neighborhood watering can be done. Look at East Passayunk or hole, The Artful Dodger. Mike even proposed Chicago’s Old Town Area, which I know to his wife, Melanie, over a romantic dinner in well. Graffiti removal is my first priority. Society Hill’s own Bistro Romano. Now Mike and We’ve got to fix that. Like the “broken window” his family, which includes two young children, live theory, graffiti can degrade a neighborhood near the Shot Tower at 2nd and Christian Streets. and attract more graffiti and blight. We’ve Today, if he’s not at the District’s office (perched got to keep this area clean, safe and secure and create a new appeal for South Street. atop the Shambles at 2nd and Pine), he can proba- “How can we bly be spotted in his “front office,” Bodhi Coffee, That’s the immediate task ahead. We’ve also talking up South Street over a double espresso. been working closely with the new commander work together… at the South Street mini-station, Lt. Tom to attract new Originally a transplant from Chicago, Mike is best McLean, and have forged a good, collaborative retailers who known in Philadelphia for his work at UPenn, as and transparent relationship here.” well as Rowan University in South Jersey, where will create an he was Vice President of Operations and Facilities. Steering the conversation back to food, even better As SSHD’s new Director, his mission is to revital- I asked Mike how he unwinds on a Friday South Street?” ize South Street and its environs. How, you might night — what’s his “go-to” dining spot? Mike Harris, Executive ask, is this relevant to a column about food? Well, Alas, Mike is actually too politically astute Director of the South actually, the pretext of talking to Mike about his to be drawn into this potential minefield. Street Headhouse “fave” dining spots and local hangouts was our Instead, he replied, “The best thing District, who also makes Trojan horse to secure an interview. What we about the South Street District is its wealth a mean meatloaf. really want to know is how Mike plans to entice of restaurants. You can get just about any- new boutiques, bars, restaurants (ah, there’s thing you want, depending on your mood. the link!) and businesses to South Street. My wife is a vegetarian, so this diversity is important to us!” “My first priority is to build relationships with neighbors, restaurant owners, retailers and the When asked to share a favorite recipe, economic development and tourism communities,” SSHD’s new director informed us that he explains this busy man. “We’ll then assess the makes a mean meatloaf — “I’m actually the retail and business service needs of the community chef of the house. One of the things I like and ask how we can work together to reinvent our to cook is a turkey meatloaf recipe from the neighborhood as a vibrant, dynamic destination. cookbook Fit for Life by Marilyn Diamond.” We need to harness the energy that’s already here For the full recipe, see Keri’s and Claire’s — and then attract new retailers who will create food blog, www.phillyfoodlovers.com or an even better South Street. When I look out my like us on Facebook. window, I want to see diverse crowds of locals, families and tourists — people from places as varied as the burbs or Rittenhouse Square. I want this Grilling Wars Resolved area to be a well-populated destination — a place Last issue’s column on Gas vs. Charcoal Grills where there is always something interesting to do.” generated such interest we felt compelled to Mike continues to explain how he hopes to answer the — ahem — burning question. And effect change on South Street. “The environment the winner is… gas. My husband was recently is really important. I’d like to see additional recruited to man the grill at a neighborhood beautification of the area.” [Editor’s note: barbecue. Cooking kebabs in a friend’s back- In recent years, the District has planted trees yard, he had the good fortune to use a Weber and replaced sidewalks and lights on South Street Genesis E-310 Black Porcelain Enamel Grill. and also repaired and landscaped the fountain It was love at first sight. Guess what he got at 2nd and Lombard Streets.] for Fathers’ Day? — Keri White PAGE 12 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

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ON OUR SHELF BY KERI WHITE A Member of the Tribe

ow could I not write this book?” asks When asked about the writing life in Philadelphia, “Hlocal author Gerald Kolpan, referring Gerald is effusive. “I love history, so living here is to his recently published historical novel, such a privilege. I honestly never take it for granted Magic Words: The Tale of a Jewish Boy- and I never tire of it. The authenticity of our city — Interpreter, the World’s Most Estimable the architecture, the streets, the places that have been Magician, a Murderous Harlot, and here for hundreds of years — make this a wonder- America’s Greatest Indian Chief. ful place to work as a writer, especially of historical fiction. For example, in Magic Words, Julius is an Kolpan is interested primarily in great immigrant, so I have him arrive in Philadelphia. stories and exciting characters, and both I was able to visit the Lazaretto Quarantine Station, Magic Words and his successful first novel, which was our immigration center — it predates the much shorter-titled Etta, sprung from Ellis Island. It’s in nearby Tinicum Township, was such roots. Both take place in the 19th built in 1799, and it is still there. Sure, it’s vacant and century with Western-frontier settings, but Author Gerald Kolpan crumbling, but I was able to see it, wander around, that is a mere coincidence says the author. peek in the windows and get a real sense of place, The genesis of Magic Words came from, which enabled me to write a detailed visual descrip- ironically, a PBS television documentary about tion and create a clear picture for the reader.” Jewish immigrants. The show focused primarily Gerald also uses the Walnut Street Theatre on New York, but there was a brief shot of a in the book: “As the oldest American theatre, curly, dark-haired youth clad in buckskin, sur- founded in 1809, the Walnut is the setting for rounded by Indian chiefs. Ever the wit, Kolpan an important scene — The Great Herrmann, a quips, “Talk about a member of the tribe.” magician, is slated to perform there, and there The chap in chaps was Julius Meyer, and is a need to pay off the Philadelphia police, who Kolpan was immediately intrigued by his were notoriously corrupt in those days.” story — a Jewish-Prussian immigrant who When asked about his genre, Gerald is passionate. ended up as an influential Native American “I am much more interested in writing in historical interpreter in the Wild West. As he began to times. The details are fascinating to me — the research Meyer’s history, Kolpan uncovered clothing, the buildings, the modes of communication, a fascinating life, filled with relationships with social behavior, transportation, occupations, the lit- prominent and illustrious figures. Standing tle details on how people lived, all require research Bear, the Poncan chief who gained rights for and discovery, and add a rich texture to the story.” Native Americans by successfully arguing in a court of law that Native Americans were You can find Magic Words and Etta at Headhouse indeed human (and thereby entitled to Books, 619 S. 2nd Street (www.headhousebooks.com). human rights) figures heavily in the novel. Gerald is available to speak at book group meetings And then we have Julius’s cousin Alexander, and other literary gatherings. To contact him and who eventually becomes The Great Herrmann learn more about his writing, visit his website — the most famous magician of the era. at: www.geraldkolpan.com. PAGE 14 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

OUT AND ABOUT Society Hill 2012 Open House Tour

n May 20th, the 34th annual Society Hill cause: a benefit for SHCA and neighborhood Historic homes OOpen House & Garden Tour drew visitors improvement projects. Many thanks also go and gardens, from far and wide. Of the 466 attendees, more to the Physick House and the Society Hill plus beautiful than half were from areas outside Center City, Synagogue for their participation. including Philadelphia neighborhoods, weather brought Thank you to the 130 volunteers who hosted — visitors from far Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks Counties, South Jersey — even New York City and greeting visitors, giving information and helping and wide. Baltimore! Eight exceptional private homes were to add security. Many were long-timers, while featured (some with beautiful gardens), as well some were new and excited to be involved. as two large single gardens, the Physick House The Society Hill Open House Tour is a fun and historic Society Hill Synagogue. Weather- experience and a good way to show support wise, it couldn’t have been better! Several homes for our neighborhood. This is our only annual had never been showcased before and a few fundraiser that specifically benefits SHCA. had not been on our tour for at least five years. Linda and Martha are happy that this year’s Coordinators Linda Skale and Martha Levine tour grossed over $16,000 — which will be thank all of the generous homeowners who used for neighborhood improvement projects. were willing to share their private spaces. It takes They express gratitude, again, to all who a tremendous effort to prepare homes for large attended and helped in a variety of ways. crowds. Many are proud of their homes and And SHCA thanks these two women for wish to share them; others do it for a good all their dedication and hard work!

Martha Levine, long-time co-chair with Linda The 2011 House Tour persuaded Richard and Pamela Skale, assists with volunteers. Vail to make Society Hill their home. Baby Mason agrees that it was the right move!

Elaine and Patrick Sweeney, from Drexel Hill, Mother and daughter Marguerite and Jeanne McFalls wanted “to see how the other half lives!” came in from the suburbs to appreciate the “traditional elements” of these historic treasures. JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 15

OUT AND ABOUT

Sisters Caitlin and Kristen Shirley, who live just outside our Baltimore’s Bill Stolis, who has attended the House Tour for 25 neighborhood, walk through often and have “been intrigued by years, has a deep appreciation for preservation and history. what lies inside these beautiful, architecturally diverse homes.” He’s still amazed at how beautiful our neighborhood is!

First-time tour-goers Scott Lowry from Atlantic City and Rich Long-time friends Joyce Adelman, Yamile Davitt and Gerda Wolf Donnell from Washington Square West marveled at our beautiful live in Montgomery and Bucks counties. They think Society Hill homes. Scott especially appreciated the architecture and interiors. is “fabulous, fantastic — very European!”

Bernard Devieux, Ann, Lisa and Tom Shockley appreciate seeing Neighbors Alice Levy and Motty Seal have lived in Society Hill how the old blends in with the new. Ann and Tom drove in from for 4 years. They’re fascinated with old interiors and enjoy Maryland to visit Lisa, who just moved to Society Hill. seeing the gardens. PAGE 16 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

Establishing the foundation for a fruitful and principled life.

St. Peter’s School is an independent, multidenominational preschool through eighth grade school for boys and girls.

www.st-peters-school.org 319 Lombard Street 215-925-3963 Philadelphia, PA 19147 JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 17

SAFE AND SOUND IN SOCIETY HILL BY MARILYN APPEL Security Camera Update

HCA’s Laura Temple informs us that her The usual crimes like vandalism and theft of S committee, along with Captain Brian Korn (and from) autos are still happening, but even (commander of our 6th Police District), will more interior robberies are taking place — inside soon be mapping out houses suitable for video apartments, inside St. Mary’s School, and inside camera installation. This pilot project, known a guest room at the Sheraton Hotel. Remember as Streetsmarts, is limited to American Street, to lock your doors and windows and use your Philip Street, 200 Delancey and 2nd and 3rd burglar alarm! In addition, put outdoor lights on Streets from Delancey to Spruce. A meeting a timer so you won’t be fumbling for a key in the will soon be held to discuss, among other dark. The good news is that several arrests have topics,creating a timetable, choosing and been made, mostly due to good observations by paying for cameras and monitoring the video the complainants, quick calls to 911 and speedy feed via the Real Time Crime Center. If you’re response by our own 6th District Police. interested in participating, contact Laura at When the music’s on, the world is off. [email protected]. The great escape — listening to music via It’s that time of year when dining alfresco headsets — can be dangerous. Darren Rogers, is the popular choice. Remember to keep your who was shot at 4th and Pine Streets in early purse between your feet — not on the back November, was listening to his favorite group of restaurant chairs. This also goes for men — on his Walkman when the brutal attack occurred. keep your wallets in front rather than rear Warning: don’t let down your guard — be aware pockets. The smart thief steals just one credit of your surroundings! FYI, Darren is still card. You may not discover the loss for hours undergoing physical therapy at AristaCare. or even days, giving a crook ample opportunity Contributions are welcome and may be made to spend a lot of your money. to him at any PNC branch. Meet the new officer: Old cell phones: We’re still collecting them Our new PSA3 Officer is Lt. Wanda Dade. at 414 Spruce Street. They’re reprogrammed She will respond to any problems. Call her to only call 911 and are given to the elderly at 267-240-5392. or victims of domestic abuse.

TWELVE TRAVEL TIPS

1 Alert your credit card 6 Women — carry your 10 Don’t access financial data providers before you purse with long straps on any public computer or leave and tell them when, across your body with Wi-Fi network — too easy where and how long you’ll purse in front. for hackers. be traveling. 7 Leave your checkbook at 11 If the front desk calls and 2 Stop your mail and home. asks for your credit card newspapers. number, go down to the 8 This is the best tip: In desk yourself. Don’t give 3 Weed out your wallet — addition to your real wallet, your credit card number take your driver’s license carry a throwaway with to callers over the phone. and two credits cards (one a few dollars and an old card to be left in the locked hotel key card. If you’re 12 Be safe and have safe in your hotel room). accosted, hand over the a wonderful time spare wallet, the thief on vacation! 4 Never carry your Social will see money and plas- Security card. tic and be off and running. 5 Men — keep your wallet in 9 If you must use an ATM, a buttoned breast pocket. it is preferable to use one in a hotel lobby where there is camera surveillance.

PAGE 18 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

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JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 19

A S O F 2 0 1 2 Get to Know Your Block Coordinator

our Block Coordinator is your go-to person events via email or copying and distributing Ywhen neighborhood problems and concerns flyers, reporting problems such as street arise. If your block does not currently have a light outages and looking out for the well-being coordinator, consider stepping up to volunteer. of your block. Contact Martha Levine at Responsibilities include announcing special [email protected] for more information. Northwest Northeast St. James Court(WE#1) Norm Wisler 200 Locust Andrew Asher Independence Place 1 Matt DeJulio 200 Spruce George Kelley Ayer Building Barbara Lewis 300 Spruce (N) Lynn Karoly 200 S. 7th Paul George SH Towers Mary Purcell S. Washington Sq. Paul George 200 S. Philip Place Diane Harrison Hopkinson House Mary Tracy 200 St. James Place Diane Harrison Manning Walk (WE#2) Nancy Frenze 200-258 S. 3rd Chris Mahoney 400 Spruce (N) Rosanne Loesch/Ed Coyle 260-274 S. 3rd 500 Spruce (N) Garrett Smith 200 S. 4th (E) George Zolot 600 Spruce (N) Martha Levine 300 St. James Place 700 Spruce (N) Helen Niedermeyer St. Joseph’s Way 200 S. 5th Anne & Jim King Willings Alley 200 S. 4th George Zolot Willings Alley Mews Jennifer Schwartz Bells Court

Southwest Southeast 400 Spruce (S) Rosanne Loesch/Ed Coyle 100 Spruce Penn’s Landing Association. 500 Spruce (S) Chris Stanish 200 Spruce (S) George Kelley 600 Spruce (S) Martha Levine 300 Spruce (S) Lynn Karoly 500 Delancey Joan Tropp 100 Delancey Dave Stevens 400 Cypress Diane Pastor 200 Delancey JoAnn Buller 500 Cypress Nancy Allen 300 Delancey Carolyn Evans 400 Pine Anine Burlingame 100 Pine Donna Rodio 500 Pine Wally Wing 200 Pine (S) Susan deWyngaert/Kelly Nelson 600 Pine Yvonne Novak 200 Pine (N) Susan deWyngaert 700 Pine Johnny McDonald 300 Pine Marlene Molinoff Perth Dan Horowitz 100 Lombard (N) Norma Van Dyke 400 Lombard Leslie LaRocca 100 Lombard (S) Shelly Woods 500 Lombard Marianne Lipson 200 Lombard Jeffrey Ingber Randolph Court 300 Lombard Connie Yetke 600 Lombard Dolores Helb Blackwell Ct. Kelly Nelson 700 Lombard Art Coyle Stampers Street Kelly Nelson 500 Addison Gina Cohen 300 S. Phillip Sandra Williams 600 Addison Dick Ostrander 300 S. American Laura Temple 700 Addison Dan Horowitz 300 Cypress Laura Lane 300 S. 4th (W) Doris Gunther 200 Gaskil Jeffrey Ingber 300 S. 5th Anne & Jim King 300-400 Gaskill William Landy 300 S. 6th Francisco Carreno 300 S. Front Dave Stevens 400 S. 6th Dick Ostrander 500 S. Front Shelly Woods 300 S. Lawrence Mary Lipinski Davis 100 Naudain Shelly Woods 400 S. Seventh 300 S. 2nd Cheryle Rosen 300 S. 3rd 400 S. 3rd 300 S. 4th (E) Doris Gunther PAGE 20 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

CHILDREN’S DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C. STEPHEN D. COHEN, D.D.S.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS Since 1973

607 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, Pa 19106 www.kiddy2th.com 215-925-6251 JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 21

WELCOME, NEIGHBORS! Union Gourmet: New Guys on the Block

elcome to the new owners of Union Gourmet W5th Street (formerly Zeke’s Deli): Husband and wife Chef Felix Maietta and Theresa Fera. Society Hill residents for more than 20 years, Felix and Theresa own the food service company that operates the Downtown Club at 6th and Chestnut Streets, as well as Union Gourmet — an off-site catering company. In addition, they’re the owners of Union Gourmet To-Go Bistro, a quick meal spot in the Public Ledger building on the 600 block of Chestnut Street. In 2011, the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association named Chef Felix and Theresa “Restaurateurs of the Year.” No wonder! Chef Felix buys locally whenever possible and uses the freshest and finest ingredients to which he adds his special touch. They recently freshened Union Gourmet, too, by renovating the kitchen, restrooms, and lighting. Updating the front seating area with new booths, tables and flooring is scheduled for early 2013. Union Gourmet 5th Street is located at 318 South 5th Street in Society Hill. Union Gourmet co-owners Theresa Fera and her husband, Chef Felix Maietta. PAGE 22 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

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Just How Historic Are We? BY MATT DEJULIO

re you tired of guessing dates and making Happy Bicentennial! A generalizations when friends and relatives This year, we celebrate the bicentennial come to town and you take them on a tour of of the following houses — built at the the historic neighborhood in which you live? advent of the War of 1812: For the first time ever, SHCA has analyzed the 725 Addison St. data listed in the City’s Historic Register, which 303-309 South American St. inventories all of the structures in our certified 504, 508 and 513-517 Delancey St. 323-331 Gaskill St. district. We can now give you an accurate 327 and 508-514 Spruce St. account of how historic we really are. Numbers by the Century While not the oldest neighborhood in Philadelphia (parts of Queen Village, Penn’s Here is a summary of what was uncovered Port and Olde City can lay claim to that), Society by our analysis: Hill certainly has preserved a lion’s share of old Date Number Still Standing % Per Century historic buildings. They are blended in with a healthy mix of contemporary structures which 1700’s 146 12.6% Prior to 1775* 60 5.2% were built during the gentrification period 1776-1799 86 7.4% beginning in the mid-1950’s to early 1960’s. 1800’s 509 44.0% As you can see, Society Hill has an ample supply 1800-1812 184 15.9% of pre-Revolutionary War and post-Revolutionary 1813-1859 288 24.9% War structures. The biggest building boom in the 1860-1899 37 3.2% 1800’s occurred after the War of 1812, when num - erous Greek Revival townhouses and mansions 1900’s 503 43.4% 1900-1928 49 4.2% were erected. The boom in the 20th century 1929-1960 40 3.5% occurred between 1961 and 1975, with the erection 1961-1975 354 30.6% of many contemporary or neo-colonial structures. 1976-1999 60 5.2%

If you live in an historic house and do not have Total 1,158 100.0% a window pane identifying the age (and who *The oldest extant structure is 119 Lombard, may have lived there, if available) contact which dates from 1739. It was built for Joseph [email protected] and order one today. Wharton, Cooper.

Give the Physick House a Little TLC Museum of the American Revolution he Physick House, at 321 S. 4th St., is he American Revolution Center, a non-partisan, nonprofit T seeking volunteers willing to be trained in T educational organization dedicated to engaging the the basic care of antiques by a graduate of the public in the history and enduring legacy of the American Collections Care Training Program of the Revolution, searched for nearly a decade for a place to house Middle Atlantic Association of Museums. its important collection of period artifacts, books and manu- Meeting monthly, the group and their supervisor scripts. After neighborhood opposition derailed plans for a will perform hands-on basic care for all types of museum at the Valley Forge battlefield, then-Gov. Ed Rendell items in the Physick House’s collection, using brokered a land swap that gave the group control of the special substances and techniques that meet shuttered visitor center at 3rd and Chestnut Streets. general museum standards. The Museum of the American Revolution, as it’s being called, is expected to open in 2015, a mere stone’s throw Interested? Contact Donna Thomas at from the 1795 First Bank of the United States and William 215-925-9537 or [email protected]. Strickland’s 1834 Merchant’s Exchange Building. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, the $150-million museum will tell the full story of the American Revolution and explore its ongoing legacy, providing context to the many regional and national museums that present key aspects of our nation’s founding era. PAGE 24 SOCIETYHILL Reporter JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 25

2012 Membership Drive Approaches 2011 Total

y mid-June, 1,006 residents have either B renewed their memberships or joined SOCIETY HILL CIVIC ASSOCIATION for the first time. This represents 97% of our Membership Application 2011 total SHCA membership of 1,033.

A big thank you goes out to the 82 new Name members. But we still wonder why 104 residents — some of whom have been long-time members, Address Apt. # have not renewed after several notices. City, State, Zip We always strive to obtain memberships from all 2,600 households located in our most Home Phone historic neighborhood. Why is your membership so important? Besides providing funding for our Work Phone many neighborhood improvement projects, such email as graffiti control, weekly sidewalk cleaning and (print clearly) plantings in Washington Square, numbers speak IMPORTANT: Today most everyone communicates via email. Please be sure that we volumes. When our board advocates on your have your current email address — so that you can receive important updates between behalf re: zoning changes, real estate taxes, publication of our community newsletter. All SHCA emails will be judiciously screened, crime problems, ramp issues, trash receptacles, and rarely will we send emails more than once a week. Nor will we share your email street lighting, bus re-routing, etc., it makes address with anyone else. This convenient, 21st-century system helps save our civic a greater impact if they can say they speak on association postage costs, while keeping you regularly informed. behalf of the majority of residents. Members Residential Memberships Business Memberships are also guaranteed a personal invitation to l $ 50 Basic Household Membership l $ 100 Institutions — each of our social events. l $ 40 Senior/Student/Single 5+ employees Without member dues, SHCA would cease to l $ 100 Federal Friend l $ 60 Institutions — function. Protect your neighborhood and your l $ 150 Georgian Grantor fewer than 5 employees real estate investment. SIGN UP TODAY!! l $ 300 Jefferson Benefactor Email [email protected] if you have any l $ 500 Washington Benefactor questions or wish to comment on why you have l $ 1,000 Benjamin Franklin Benefactor nor renewed or are not a member. All comments will be shared with the board, which is represen- Additional Contributions tative of every quadrant in Society Hill. $______Washington Square Beautification $______Franklin Lights

Sunny Skies & Sunny Smiles $______Sidewalk Cleaning/Graffiti Removal $______Tree Tenders $______Zoning and Historic Preservation $______McCall School

Walkie-Talkies Welcomes Newcomers Total Enclosed $______ocializing with neighbor gals while l Charge VISA/MasterCard: S simultaneously exercising those lazy muscles is a zero-cost way to participate with the Walkie- Number Exp Date Talkies on any Tuesday or Thursday morning (except when it rains). Simply lace up your Signature sneakers and show up at Three Bears Park The following topics are of special interest to me. I welcome receipt of email (Delancey Street between 2nd & 3rd Streets) updates on these topics. prior to 8:15 a.m. — at which time you will be enthusiastically welcomed on these varied, l Clean-Up Day l Washington Square l Zoning & Historic Preservation one-hour strolls that explore our wonderful l Franklin Lights l Social Events l Fundraising neighborhood. We look forward l Dilworth House l Property Taxes l Local Crime to your participation, especially l Reporter l Casino Issues Incidents & Alerts now that weather is so beauti- Please return completed application to: ful. Any questions about this Society Hill Civic Association free, friendly and fun fitness P.O. Box 63503 routine? Just phone Bernice Philadelphia, PA 19147 at 215-925-4363. Society Hill society hill civic association civic association

civicSociety association Hill PAGE 26 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

NIFTY NEIGHBORS IN MY OWN BACKYARD BY JANE BIBERMAN Tails of Washington Square

would not have moved to Society Hill had it Katie died in 2006 and Kipp passed away only I not been for Kipp. I rescued this beautiful blue last October. It would have been unbearable had merle Shetland Sheepdog shortly after my former I not already adopted Butch four years earlier, canine companion, Fleur, died in 1998. A 30-year right after the Phillies won the World Series. Remembering resident of Rittenhouse Square, I had put down A black Cocker spaniel mix, Butchie was a lively Kipp, Katie and roots. However, my apartment building wanted a 15-year-old who took to city life. He soon became an honorary member of the Walkie-Talkies, a Butchie dog-free building. So Kipp and I shopped around and found Independence Place, described by group of ladies who meet Tuesday and Thursday one resident as a “glorified kennel.” mornings at Three Bears Park to exercise and chat. Butch often led the way — trotting along It was the best decision the Delaware or jogging enthusiastically on the I ever made. Washington way home for a breakfast sandwich at Philly’s Square and Society Hill Cafe. He particularly liked to dine alfresco at were practically foreign M Restaurant, Talula’s Garden and Chops territory to me. But — all on the Square. I quickly fell in love with this historic area. My first We met dozens of interesting neighbors, like friends were fellow dog art photographer Judy Gelles, who made a walkers, and Kippy, a portrait of Butch, and whom I featured in a story shy dog, preferred his on South Street galleries. A few years ago, when new, relatively quiet David Woods retired, I took over his Reporter neighborhood. A year profile column, a wonderful vehicle for making later, I adopted Katie, new acquaintances. Butch and I loved visiting Katie and Kipp an outgoing sable Sheltie, and soon the beloved radio personality Ralph Collier, who three of us began exploring in earnest. always had a dog treat at the ready; and Margarita and Donald Molinaro, founders As fate would have it, I met Bernice of the Philadelphia Chamber Ensemble. We Hamel, past editor of the Reporter, were invited in for snacks when I interviewed at a Civic Association party. She Delores F. Brisbon, the inspirational author of suggested that I contribute a column A Privileged Life (Amazon). Not long ago, we went to this publication. I decided to call to see Darren Rogers, the unfortunate victim of it “Accidental Tourist in My Own a brutal attack in front of Old Pine Street Church Backyard.” So Kipp, Katie and I walked last November. Butch cheered all the residents all over the area — from Pennsyl vania of AristaCare, where Darren is still undergoing Hospital, the first hospital in the physical therapy. Sadly, Butchie finally slowed country, to Old City, home of the down and died two months ago. Whether he celebrated Arden Theater. was 19 or 20, he was still young at heart. We visited the oldest synagogues All of these special dogs are now part of my in the area, as well as established memories of the past 14 years. With millions of landmarks like the Seaport Museum dogs languishing in shelters longing for a home, and the Powel House. Everywhere we how could I not rescue one more? So you went became the subject of a column. will soon meet Trixie, a I’ll never forget the time my late 2-year-old black Sheltie mother, Rhoda, and I were sitting in mix. She will join a new the lovely cemetery of Old Pine Street generation of young dogs Jane, Ben and Butchie Church with the Shelties. A tourist asked us in Washington Square, under the Mulberry Tree where Eugene Ormandy’s grave was. Oh, not and no doubt accompany here, we answered in unison, only to discover me as I continue to write later that we were seated right next to it. about new people and When this handsome pair of dogs eventually places in what has became too old to walk long distances, I retired become my old them to my weekend home in Bucks County. neighborhood. Trixie JULY / AUGUST 2012 PAGE 27

in today’s market. Put my years of PAGE 28 SOCIETYHILL Reporter

SUMMER EVENTS OF INTEREST – HERE AND NEAR Head House Penn’s Landing Race Street Pier Free Library of Phila– 2nd and Lombard Streets delawareriverevents.com Friday Night Lights The Awesome Fest Independence Branch Columbus Blvd at Market St Free Film Series Farmers’ Market Paddle Penn’s Landing 18 S. 7th Street Every Friday, July–August. Columbus Blvd at Race St Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. Every Sunday Penn’s Landing Marina, Free fireworks displays. Every Saturday through Free! 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Columbus Blvd at Dock St Film Series the end of August, 8 p.m. Creative Collective Saturday-Sunday 1-8 p.m. July 11 Columbus Blvd at Market St These Independent films Saturday July 28, August 4, Paddle a kayak or pedal Master Storyteller Irma Every Thursday night are straight out of major 11, 18, 25 and September a swan boat. Gardner-Hammond. in July and August festivals, including 1 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Kayaks, $8/person July 18 Bring a blanket or a lawn Sundance and SXSW. More Swan Boats, $5/person The Rangeen Kamon Group chair and watch movies information is available at The National Multicultural Series presents Persian dance. outdoors on a big screen! www.theawesomefest.com Constitution Center Columbus Blvd at Market St July 25 Scheduled Films or call 215-922-2FUN. 525 Arch Street Hispanic Fiesta: The Independence Magician Brian Richards Through September 3 July 9, 10; 2-8 p.m. July 12 Moneyball blends magic and comedy. Global Fusion: July 19 Twilight Saga: Seaport Museum “From Asbury Park August 1 July 16, 12-8 p.m. Breaking Dawn Columbus Blvd at Walnut St to the Promised Land: Acclaimed puppeteer Steve ACANA African Festival: Aug. 9 The Muppets Call 215-413-8630 for The Life and Music of Abrams performs Aesop’s August 6; 2-8 p.m. Aug. 16 Justin Bieber: available dates. Bruce Springsteen” Fables. Children will create Festival of India: Never Say Never Experience life aboard a their own puppet. “Once Upon a Nation” August 14, 12-7 p.m. Aug. 23 Dolphin Tale retired war ship, sleeping 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily Caribbean Festival: Aug. 30 The Descendants under the stars on the August 8 Eleven storytellers tell bits August 21, 2-8 p.m. Smooth Jazz U.S.S. Olympia’s top deck. SUMMER READING FINALE: of history that even many S.E. Asian Dragon Boat Summer Nights Slumbers include hands-on Mlenjani’s Magical Puppet adults have never heard — Festival: September 10; Columbus Blvd at Market St activities, gallery and ship Theater and the Amazing in the area where they 12-6 p.m. Every Friday night in exploration, evening snack Mr. Q’s Big Balloon happened. The stories are Mexican Independence August at 7:30 p.m. and continental breakfast. Sculpture Blast. told continuously, last just Day: September 11; For complete schedule, visit All children participating Call 215-685-1633 for a few minutes and are free. 1–7 p.m. delawareriverevents.com. get a souvenir activity patch. more information.

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