Watch local Christmas movie
Philly Born Films has released Finding Christmas, written and produced by Mike Walsh and directed by Bridget Smith. After suffering a head injury on Christmas Eve, a rebellious teen transports back in time, Wizard of Oz style, to the woods outside Bethlehem. Alone in a scary forest, he struggles to get to the stable where Jesus was born so he can get home. Watch the movie at these links: https://bit.ly/m/FINDING-CHRISTMAS-MOVIE ••
PAWS announces new adoption promotion
The Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society is hosting its Cold Noses & Warm Hearts adoption promotion, running through Dec. 24. Adopters can name their own adoption fee for adult cats over 6 months old and large dogs over 40 pounds. When they take their new pet home, PAWS will be able to rescue another animal in their place.
PAWS is asking animal lovers throughout the region to consider expanding their family by adopting now.
“As we celebrate the holiday season, we’re reminded of the joy and love that pets bring into our lives,” said Melissa Levy, PAWS’ executive director. “But for homeless pets, this time of year is spent waiting for a family to call their own. By adopting, you’re not only giving them the gift of a loving home but also opening space for us to save even more lives. There’s no better time to make a difference — for them and for yourself — than during the holidays.”
For more about PAWS’ adoption process, including Cold Noses & Warm Hearts animals, visit phillypaws.org. ••
SEAMAAC receives $500K grant
The Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition Inc. will receive $500,000 to renovate its facility at 624-628 Snyder Ave. The grant money comes via the Local Share Account – Philadelphia program. The Department of Community and Economic Development announced $6.1 million to 16 organizations in the state.
The projects include expanded affordable housing for veterans, the purchase of a warehouse to grow food for the local community and enhancements to help make a homeless shelter and foster care facility more secure. LSA – Philadelphia projects focus on community improvement, economic development, neighborhood revitalization and public interest projects in the city of Philadelphia.
“This funding will support many critical projects and help create safer and healthier communities for Philadelphia residents and visitors,” said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger. “Since day one, the Shapiro administration has been doubling down on projects like these to strengthen our communities and help grow Pennsylvania’s economy.” ••
Exhibit of UArts student work
Creative Philadelphia and City Councilwoman Rue Landau announced an exhibition titled Transcending Uncertainty: Art Endures at Home in Philadelphia, through Jan. 25, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the City Hall Art Gallery. The exhibition is a collaboration between Creative Philadelphia and Landau to support students and faculty affected by the recent closure of the University of the Arts. The exhibit features the work of 42 former UArts students, faculty and staff displayed on the first-floor art gallery within Creative Philadelphia-Room 116, and on the fifth-floor corridor near City Council offices. The exhibition features more than 50 artworks and was selected by artist Lauren Rinaldi, who also serves as Landau’s arts and culture liaison.
“The closure of UArts is a significant loss for Philadelphia, but our local creative community is resilient,” Landau said. “I’m honored to provide a space for these talented artists to display their work and remind them that Philadelphia values and celebrates their contributions.” ••
A retreat for moms
Mother Boniface Spirituality Center (3501 Solly Ave.) will present Renew and Breathe: Part 2- A Mother’s Yes with Grace and Hope on Saturday, Jan. 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The retreat is open to mothers of all ages for faith sharing and reflection with other mothers. Part 3 will be on March 1. Each retreat costs $55 and includes continental breakfast and lunch. To register or for more information, call 267-350-1830 or visit msbt.org. ••
VFW looking for members
Bustleton-Somerton/CTR1 Michael J. Strange VFW Post 6617 meets on the third Wednesday of every month at American Legion Post 810, 9151 Old Newtown Road.
Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.
If you are a military veteran who served in a designated combat zone, you are eligible to join the VFW.
Call Commander Israel Wolmark at 215-725-0630 if you would like to join the post. ••
