St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 16
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be on Sunday, March 16, beginning at 11 a.m. at 16th Street and JFK Boulevard. The theme is St. Patrick, Bless Those Dedicated to Serving Others. Archbishop Nelson Perez will celebrate a Mass at 9 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 20th and Locust streets. The parade route goes west on the Ben Franklin Parkway to the art museum. The parade will be shown from noon to 3 p.m. on Channel 57. For more information, go to phillyparade.com. ••
Event at Fox Chase Cancer Center on colorectal cancer
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Temple Health and Fox Chase Cancer Center are hosting an event to promote education, awareness and prevention on Wednesday, March 12, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Fox Chase Cancer Center Lippincott Resource and Education Center, Young Pavilion, First Floor, 333 Cottman Ave.
The event will include a guided, interactive walk through a giant inflatable colon where participants will learn more about various colon conditions and what they can do to protect themselves against them.
Providers will also be available to provide free fecal immunochemical test kits to those who qualify. The tests are noninvasive screening kits used to detect colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps in the colon. In addition, staff will be on hand to help participants schedule a colonoscopy and will provide them information on screening guidelines and reducing their risk for colorectal cancer. ••
Craft fair on March 30
The Villages at Pine Valley will hold a craft fair on Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be homemade candy, jewelry, wreaths, candles, artwork, etc. The fair will be held in the clubhouse at 900 Pine Valley Blvd. (access off of 8540 Verree Road). Call Kathy at 215-722-1501. ••
Real estate tax refund deadline extended
Councilwomen Jamie Gauthier and Rue Landau co-introduced an ordinance extending the deadline for low-income taxpayers to apply for a refund or forgiveness of real estate taxes. The ordinance will allow for the 2025 application deadline to be extended to Sept. 30. The extension will also permit the retroactive qualification for future applicants as well as institute an auto-enrollment process for the Department of Revenue to proactively register qualified applicants.
Homeowners can apply online via the Philadelphia Tax Center, by mail or in person at one of the city’s services centers. Based on state guidelines, participants cannot exceed a total yearly gross income of $33,500 for a single person. A married couple cannot exceed a yearly gross of $41,500.
Homeowners who enroll in the low-income tax freeze before the deadline will have their property tax bill frozen at its 2024 amount, even if their assessed property value or tax rate increased. This program helps seniors and other low-income homeowners stay in their residences as housing costs and property tax bills increase.
“With expenses surging, it’s more crucial than ever to do all we can to help Philadelphians save money and stay in their homes,” Landau said. “This is one more tool in our toolbox here in City Council to help seniors and low-income Philadelphians with their housing costs.” ••
North class of ’69 reunion
The Northeast Catholic Class of 1969 will hold a reunion on Thursday, March 27, at 2 p.m. at Gallo’s/Burger Bar, 8101 Roosevelt Blvd. There will be a cash bar. Contact Jack at jdnorth69@gmail.com or 215-287-8691. ••
KleinLife summer camp
Registration is open for the 2025 summer day camp at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave. Camp will run June 16 to Aug. 22. Camp will be offered in four age-related segments: grades K-3; Maccabi boys sports program, grades 4-7; senior girls, grades 4-7; and the CIT program for grades 8-9. Camp hours will be 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. There will be plenty of activities and three healthy homemade meals every day. For cost and additional information, contact Cierra Adams at 215-698-7300, Ext. 112 or cadams@kleinlife.org. ••
Travel to see Noah
St. William Travel is sponsoring a trip to Sight & Sound to see Noah on Wednesday, April 30. Cost is $174, including orchestra seating, a buffet at Miller’s Restaurant, transportation and taxes and gratuities, including the bus driver gratuity. Call Betty at 215-745-7199. ••
A fundraiser for Tara
A fundraiser for Tara Stipanovic will take place on Saturday, June 7, at 6 p.m. at Order Sons of Italy in America Lodge 447, 4741 Friendship St. Tickets cost $50 and include food, beer, wine and vendors. There will be raffle baskets and a 50-50. Proceeds will go to Tara’s health needs. For tickets or more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/share/158D1oCeyx/ ••
Variety show at Buck Hotel
Joey C’s Variety Dinner Show will take place on Friday, April 4, at the Top of the Buck Ballroom, 1200 Buck Road, Feasterville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served at 6:30. The show starts at 8. There will be tributes to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Tickets are $85, which includes tax and gratuity. There will be a cash bar. Tickets are available at Thebuckhotel.com/eventscalendar. For more information, call 215-317-7675. ••
Upcoming events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, will host several upcoming events.
Here is the schedule: Friday, March 14, 1- 3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends; Friday, March 21, 1-3 p.m., Book Club: The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck; Saturday, March 22, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: Spring is Here!; Friday, March 28, 1-3 p.m., Fibercraft Friends; Saturday, March 29, 1-3 p.m., Amish Papersnipping (Scherenschnitte), with Linda Kates.
To register or for more information, call 215-685-0599 or visit ryerssmuseum.org. ••
Flea market at Max Myers
Max Myers Recreation Centers, 1601 Hellerman St., will host a flea market on Sunday, March 16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ••
Bingo at Loudenslager
Corp. John Loudenslager American Legion Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave., is offering community bingo every second and fourth Friday at 7 p.m. There are dollar hot dogs and free popcorn. ••
Library book club to meet
The Bustleton Library Book Club will meet on Thursday, March 13, at 11 a.m. at the library, 10199 Bustleton Ave. The book discussion will be on Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Truman Capote. The author created a woman whose name has entered the American idiom and whose style is a part of the literary landscape – her poignancy, wit and naivete continue to charm. Reading the book beforehand is encouraged but not necessary. Copies of the book will be available for library card holders to borrow. ••
Cash bingo for a good cause
Friends of Fox Chase Cancer Center will present a cash bingo on Saturday, April 12, in the St. Cecilia school gym, 525 Rhawn St. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo starts at 7. There will be 10 rounds, raffles and a 50-50. It’s a BYOB event, and guests are also welcome to bring snacks. Players must be 21 or older. Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door and are available at donate.foxchase.org/cashbingo. For more information, contact Anna Honer at 215-728-7078 or Anna.Honer@fccc.edu.
Vendor fair at St. Hubert
The St. Hubert Parent Association is holding a vendor fair on Sunday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the school, 7320 Torresdale Ave. Spaces are available for $25 with a $25 raffle item. Email Sheila Picinich at s.picinich@olcalvaryschool.org. ••
Bingo at St. Hubert
St. Hubert Alumnae Association will present Bucks & Bags Bingo on Saturday, April 12, in the school cafeteria, 7320 Torresdale Ave., with entrance through the Ditman Street doors. Doors open at 5 p.m. The event runs from 6-9 p.m. and is for people 21 and older. There will be 12 rounds of bingo. The cost is $35 and includes door prize, raffle ticket, coffee, tea, water and small desserts. Outside snacks are welcome. There will be raffle baskets and a cash prize raffle. Payments accepted: Venmo @SH-Alumnae; PayPal paypal.me/SHAA7320; and checks made payable to St. Hubert Alumnae Association (must be received at the school by April 7). Questions or issues with registration, email SHAAbingo1941@gmail.com ••
St. Hubert trip to Lancaster
St. Hubert is holding a trip to Lancaster County on Thursday, April 17. Guests will see a production of Noah at Sight & Sound and have a buffet meal at Shady Maple Smorgasbord. A bus will leave the school at 8 a.m. and return at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $215. Proceeds benefit the faculty scholarship fund. To reserve a seat, contact Mary Clifford at 267-231-7367 or mclifford@huberts.org. ••
Presentation on Shroud of Turin
St. Martha Church, 11301 Academy Road, will host Shroud Encounter on Wednesday, March 12, at 7 p.m. Admission is free. The big-screen experience uses more than 200 images. The program is a production of the Shroud of Turin Education Project Inc. and will be presented by international expert and author Russ Breault. The Shroud of Turin is the most analyzed artifact in the world yet remains a mystery. The 14-foot-long linen cloth that has been in Turin, Italy for more than 400 years bears the faint front and back image of a bearded, crucified man with apparent wounds and bloodstains that match the crucifixion account as recorded in the Bible. For more information, visit ShroudEncounter.com. ••
Meeting in Fox Chase on March 12
The Fox Chase Town Watch and Fox Chase Civic Association meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at American Legion Loudenslager Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave. The group will meet on the following dates: March 12, April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, Sept. 10, Oct. 8 and Nov. 12. ••
Preschool storytime
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host Preschool Storytime & Play on Thursdays, March 13 and 27, at 10:30 a.m. There will be fun stories and songs followed by creative play. The program is for kids ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Call 215-685-9383. ••
Senior luncheons at Fox Chase church
Memorial Presbyterian Church of Fox Chase, 7902 Oxford Ave., hosts a monthly Senior Luncheon at noon on the third Wednesday of each month. Upcoming dates are March 19 and April 16. ••
Free chronic pain workshop
People 60 and older can enroll in a free six-week Chronic Pain Self-Management Workshop at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave., beginning on Wednesday, March 19, at 12:30 p.m. and running through Wednesday, April 23. Topics include how to take change of your chronic pain, addressing symptoms of fatigue, frustration, isolation and poor sleep, increasing involvement in daily tasks, physical activity and healthy eating, learning to use your mind, medication usage and evaluation of treatments, communication skills, action planning, decision making and problem solving. For information and to reserve a place, contact Inna Gulko 215-698-7300, Ext. 176 or igulko@kleinlife.org. ••
Do-nothing City Council
City Council voted 16-1 to condemn President Donald Trump for “likening himself to, and acting like, a king.” All Democrats and members of the Working Families Party voted for the resolution, sponsored by Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier. Republican Councilman Brian O’Neill voted against the resolution, which was merely ceremonial. The resolution followed a social media post by Trump mentioning his order that New York stop a new program that charges drivers $9 to enter Manhattan. He ended the post with, “Long Live The King.” ••
Water Department wants to raise rates again
The Philadelphia Water Department filed advance notice with the Philadelphia Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rate Board of its request to increase water, sewer and stormwater rates and charges over two successive years.
Beginning in September 2025, for the average ratepayer who is not enrolled in a low-income assistance program, the new rate would mean an average monthly bill of about $91.31, an 11.7 percent increase. In 2026, rates would rise to an average monthly bill of about $96.68. The 2026 proposed rates represent a 5.9 percent increase.
Customers can learn about participating in the rate process at www.phila.gov/water/rateboard.
Community Legal Services, as Public Advocate, offers free resources to support public input, including assistance for stakeholders who may have difficulty participating in virtual or telephonic hearings. Email publicadvocate@clsphila.org or call 215-227-9988 for information or assistance.
The rate board will make a decision in June. ••
Upcoming opera shows
Amici Opera Company will be holding a number of upcoming performances.
There will be two performances of Bellini’s Beatrice di Tenda on Saturdays, March 22 and 29, at 3 p.m., at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.
There will be a performance of Mascagni’s L’Amico Fritz on Tuesday, March 25, at 6 p.m. at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park. The cost for dinner and the show is $54.95 per person (tips and taxes not included). Make a reservation at 215-606-3800.
Other performances of L’Amico Fritz are Sunday, March 30, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale, and on Saturday, April 5, at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Senior softball needs players
The Philadelphia Senior Softball League is looking for experienced softball players for its 58 & over and 68 & over leagues. The 58 & over league plays Tuesday and Thursday, while 68 & over plays Monday and Friday. All games are played at Crispin Field, at Holme and Convent avenues. Games start at 10 a.m. The season starts in mid-April and runs through September. For more information, call or text Mike Bojanowski at 215-801-4869 or Marty King at 215-409-5021. ••
Bingo at Marian Hall
Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Francis de Sales #2617 will hold bingo on Saturday, March 22, at St. Dominic’s Marian Hall, 8532 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Games begin at 6:15. Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door (if available) and include beer, wine, soda, water and tea. Light snacks will be available. The event is for people 21 or older. Food can be brought in, but not liquor. There will be raffle baskets and a 50-50. Nonperishable food items will be collected for a food cupboard. For tickets, contact Maryann Morley at 215-288-8691 or chachisfo@aol.com or mail a check to CDA/St. Francis de Sales #2617, 2565 Exton Road, Hatboro, PA 19040. ••
Sign up for free NE Times newsletter
The Northeast Times has a new website: https://patimes.media/
The website includes news, sports, opinion, crime, features, a way to subscribe and a link to sign up for a free newsletter that will bring stories to your inbox. The site includes an option to read the current issue in “flipbook” style. Readers are also encouraged to follow the newspaper on Bluesky, Facebook at Northeast Times and on X @NETimesOfficial. In addition to the Times being delivered to homes, the paper can be found at these spots: https://patimes.media/pickup-locations/.
The website northeasttimes.com is not affiliated with the Northeast Times. ••
Dougherty ’75 reunion
Cardinal Dougherty Class of 1975 will hold its 50th class reunion on Saturday, April 5, from 6-10 p.m. at Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road. The cost is $75 and includes open bar, buffet dinner, dessert, DJ, pictures, glassware and lanyard keepsakes and a tribute to deceased alumni. Payments are being taken on Venmo at JimGallagher1975CDREUNION or by check payable to 1975 Cardinal Dougherty 50th Reunion, c/o John Lennon, 861 Beverly Road, Rydal, PA 19046. No tickets will be sold at the door. Email 1975cdreunion@gmail.com. ••
Blood drive at Jeanes
Temple University – Jeanes Campus, in partnership with the American Red Cross, will host a blood drive on Wednesday, March 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Patient Care Center main lobby multipurpose room, 7600 Central Ave. To register or for more information, visit redcrossblood.org and enter “TUH Jeanes Campus” for location. ••
Fundraiser for cancer research, care
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Board of Associates, Fox Chase Cancer Center is holding a High Tea/Mini Bingo (five games) on Friday, March 28. It will be held at Maggio’s Banquet Hall, 400 2nd Street Pike, Southampton, starting at noon. Participants will be playing to win baskets. The cost is $55. Call Lorraine Braverman at 610-277-3631. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Curfew, underage drinking
Curfew in Philadelphia is 9:30 p.m. for anyone 13 and under and 10 p.m. for those ages 14-17. If police pick up someone for a curfew violation in the Northeast, the young person will be taken home, to the Community Evening Resource Center at 4704 Leiper St. in Frankford or to the 2nd, 7th, 8th or 15th police districts. The penalty for a curfew violation can be up to $300.
Under state law, underage drinking is a summary offense with a $500 fine for the first violation. Anyone receiving a citation for underage drinking can be asked about it on applications for jobs, college applications and appointments to military service academies. ••
Join St. Anselm Seniors
St. Anselm has started a senior citizen club that meets most Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Hall, 12650 Dunksferry Road. The club is open to men and women 55 and older, and members don’t have to be St. Anselm parishioners. For more information, visit the St. Anselm Senior Citizens Club page on Facebook. ••
Bingo at Cannstatter’s
Bingo is played every Thursday at Cannstatter’s, 9130 Academy Road. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 6:30. Call 215-322-0121. ••
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. ••
Book review and lunch
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is having a book review and deli lunch on Friday, April 25, at 10 a.m. The book to be discussed is The Bird Hotel, by Joyce Maynard. The event will be held at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Reimann Conference Room, 4th floor, 333 Cottman Ave. There will be reserved parking off the Burholme Avenue entrance. The cost is $35. For reservations, call Joyce at 215-676-1761. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Trip to Hindu temple, lunch, chocolate
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring a bus trip to Robbinsville, New Jersey, on Thursday, April 10, featuring a tour of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple outside of India, a three-course luncheon at The Cranberry Inn and a visit to David Bradley Chocolatier. All-inclusive cost is $130. Reservation deadline is March 15. Call 215-788-2106 or visit bristolhistory.org for a flyer/reservation form. ••
GWHS class of ‘65 reunion
George Washington High School’s class of 1965 will hold its 60th class reunion on May 17 at Maggio’s Restaurant, 400 Second Street Pike, in Southampton. The 900-plus members of the class of ‘65 entered Washington as sophomores when it opened in September 1962. For more information, email Marie McCann at marie.mccann4@gmail.com. ••
Free tax preparation
People who need help with preparing their federal and state income tax returns can take advantage of the free assistance program being offered by KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave. The program will run through April 15 and will be available to everyone with annual incomes of up to $79,000, whether filling single or joint returns. All of the volunteer tax helpers are qualified with extensive experience to help prepare federal and state tax returns as well as PA Rent/Real Estate tax rebate forms. Call 215-698-7300, Ext. 194 to make an appointment. ••
Trip to see Noah
St. Katherine of Siena Primrose Club is running a bus trip on Thursday, Sept. 11, to Lancaster’s Sight & Sound Theatre to see Noah. The cost is $174 and includes a buffet lunch at Hershey Farm & Inn Restaurant. For reservations, call Catherine Murphy at 215-919-4399. ••
Travel with Maternity BVM Seniors
Maternity BVM Seniors have announced their 2025 group trip schedule. People are invited to join them on the following trips: Sight and Sound – Noah, Thursday, Sept. 25, $180; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Sea Watch Resort, Oct. 6-10; Tropicana – Blockbuster Broadway, Monday, Nov. 17, $80. For information, call Connie at 215-338-9141. ••
Bereavement support group
Lambie Funeral Home, 8000 Rowland Ave. (at Rhawn Street), sponsors a Bereavement Support group for all who have lost loved ones on the first Wednesday of the month, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., through June 4. There is no fee. Call 215-332-6110. ••
Jazz festival fundraiser
The Germantown Jazz Jamm, with a performance by Austin Wagner, will take place on Wednesday, March 26, at 7 p.m. at Attic Brewing Company, 137 Berkley St. Proceeds will benefit the Germantown Jazz Festival. ••
Parkinson’s support group at Jeanes
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, 7604 Central Ave., will host meetings of a Parkinson’s disease support group in its Cheltenham Friends Meetinghouse. The meetings, from 5-6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every other month, are open to people diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their families, and are led by nurse practitioner June Ro. The schedule, with guest speakers, is April 9 (Dr. Willard Kasoff, neurosurgeon), June 11 (speech therapist Marissa Rock), Aug. 13 (Dr. Molly Cincotta, neurologist), Oct. 8 (social worker Luisa Enriquez) and Dec. 10 (Dr. Teodora Schellato, urologist, and physical therapist Sonia Williams-Joseph).
To register, contact Ro at 215-707-2619 or Jungyoon.Ro@tuhs.temple.edu. ••
English classes at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., hosts free intermediate English classes on Mondays and Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. To register, go to remind.com/join/dbhd4e or call 215-685-0472. ••
Programs at NE Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., offers the following recurring programs:
• Crochet Club, Fridays at 11 a.m. in the second-floor Humanities Department. Bring your own materials.
• Mixed Level English Class, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. Call 215-685-0522.
• PA CareerLink® Job Search Assistance, Wednesdays, 2 to 4:30 p.m. Call 833-750-5627.
• Chess Club for Adults & Teens, Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m.
• One-on-One Basic Computer Help Appointments, Fridays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 215-685-0525.
• Thursday Computer Help: Various Subjects, Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.
• Gadget Help, Mondays and Wednesdays upon request. Call 215-685-0525.
• Computer Skills for Beginners, Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. Register at 215-474-1235.
• English Conversation Group – Intermediate-plus, Mondays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Register at 215-474-1235. ••
Pacific Wine Country tour
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is going on a Pacific Wine Country cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess, May 10-17. Ports-of-call include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Astoria (Oregon) and Victoria and Vancouver (Canada). Rates range from $3,048 to $3,578 per person, double occupancy, which includes round-trip airfare from Philadelphia, port charges, government fees, taxes and transfers to and from the ship. Call 215-788-9408 for more information. ••
Cruise in July
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is traveling on an Independence Day Celebration cruise, July 1-8. Ports-of-call include New York, Newport, Boston on July 4 and Halifax, Nova Scotia. A passport is required. Rates range from $1,920 to $2,680 per person, double occupancy. For a flyer, call 215-788-9408. ••
Chair yoga at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., hosts chair yoga on Wednesdays at 10:10 a.m. The class is presented by Yoga4Philly and sponsored by Friends of Bustleton Library. ••
Germantown Jazz Festival in April
The Germantown Jazz Festival will take place from April 25-27. Venues are Germantown Friends School, Vernon Park, First Presbyterian Church and The Nile Cafe. There will be performances, workshops, food vendors and cultural experiences. For more information, visit GermantownJazzFestival.com or call Sherri Pennington at 267-882-7385. ••
Folk music concert
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation, 321 Cedar St. in Bristol, will welcome folksinger Mary Roth to perform “Enchanting Appalachia,” an interactive program of music and history with a focus on the rich culture of Appalachia and its people, on Sunday, March 30, at 2 p.m. Light refreshment will be served. A donation of $5 per attendee is suggested. The public is invited. Call 215-788-9408 or go to www.bristolhistory.org. ••
Theater performance of Honk!
The Star Players, of the city Department of Parks and Recreation, will present Honk! The Ugly Duckling Musical on May 30-31 and June 1, at 7 p.m., at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St., in Manayunk. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets can be purchased on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, follow @starplayersPPR on X, like the group’s page on Facebook or contact director Bill Arthur at 215-685-8714 or Starplayers2013@gmail.com. ••
O’Neill events
City Councilman Brian O’Neill will hold three events on upcoming Saturdays at his offices, all from 9-11 a.m. There will be an e-cycling event on May 3 at Bustleton Avenue and Bowler Street. A recycling bucket giveaway will take place on May 17 at 432 Rhawn St. A free shredding event, sponsored by Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, is set for June 7 at 11630 Caroline Road. ••
Taekwondo competition
The Red Tiger Cup will take place on Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4, at Bucks County Community College, 275 Swamp Road, in Newtown. The fee is $80. Call 215-969-9962, email redtigertkd@gmail.com or visit red-tiger.com. ••
Kids can learn from Stevie the Inventor
Local innovator and STEM educator Stevie the Inventor is bringing hands-on Nanobot Building Classes to the Free Library of Philadelphia. These workshops are intended to provide children and families with an interactive experience in robotics, engineering and invention.
Stevie the Inventor’s DIY Nanobot Kits come equipped with tiny car bots and all the necessary components for assembly, giving participants the opportunity to build, test and customize their own moving nanobots. His mission is to empower young learners by teaching them the basics of engineering while fostering problem-solving skills and innovation.
Upcoming classes are at Independence Library, 18 S. 7th St., on Saturday, March 15, at 1 p.m.; Wynnefield Library, 5325 Overbrook Ave., on Tuesday, March 18, at 4 p.m.; and at Olney Library, 5501 N. 5th St., on Saturday, April 12, at 1 p.m.
“I believe that giving kids the chance to invent and create at an early age is my way of giving back to my community,” Stevie said. “If we can spark their curiosity now, they’ll have the confidence to build the future.”For more information about Stevie the Inventor’s Nanobot Building Classes or to schedule a session at your library or school, email stevethelegacy@gmail.com or call 267-244-2101. ••
Deeley wants federal tax exemption for poll workers
The National Association of Counties Board of Directors, at its annual legislative conference, approved by voice vote an interim policy resolution sponsored by city elections commissioner Lisa Deeley that calls on Congress to enact legislation exempting compensation paid to election day workers from federal income, Social Security and Medicare taxes. Its passage enables the board to advocate for the tax exemption on Capitol Hill.
Deeley’s resolution was co-sponsored by a bipartisan coalition of 27 county officials from six states. At the conference, Deeley worked with the Finance, Pensions & Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Steering Committee to slightly amend the language, changing “precinct poll workers” to “temporary election workers” to be more inclusive of states that have all-mail elections, like Oregon. This change allowed the resolution to pass the committee unanimously.
In January, Deeley sent a letter to the Pennsylvania congressional delegations advocating that the poll worker pay tax exemption be included in the forthcoming Tax Cuts and Jobs Act extension bills being discussed in Washington.
“The Pew Center on the States said that poll workers constitute the ‘largest one-day workforce in the country,’ ” Deeley said. “In a time when our country is so divided, we are still united by our democracy. Whether you are from King County, Washington or King County, Texas or somewhere in between we all have elections, and for those elections to happen you need poll workers. Exempting their pay from federal taxes is something that members of all parties should be able to get behind.” ••
New radiology director at Fox Chase
Fox Chase Cancer Center announced the hiring of Caryn Karff as the new Administrative Director of Radiology for Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus and Temple Health – Chestnut Hill Hospital.
Prior to joining Fox Chase and Temple, Karff was Director of Radiology Clinical Operations for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia since 2018, where she managed more than 260 employees and led projects that expanded and integrated a former specialty care clinic into a community hospital.
Before taking on her role at Children’s Hospital, Karff worked for 27 years for Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals in a variety of roles, including Administrative Manager of Diagnostic Medical Imaging for multiple campuses.
Karff received her bachelor’s degree in diagnostic imaging from Widener University as well as a master’s degree in diagnostic imaging and a graduate degree in population health from Thomas Jefferson University. She is also a certified radiology administrator. She is enrolled in the Doctor of Healthcare Administration program at Walden University.
She is certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in radiology, MRI and CT. She is a member of multiple organizations, including the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the American College of Healthcare Executives, the Radiological Society of North America and the Association of Medical Imaging Management. ••
Exhibition marking 5 years since COVID onset
The Mütter Museum and Historical Medical Library of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, 19 S. 22nd St., on March 15 will open Trusted Messengers: Community, Confidence, and COVID-19, an exhibition that marks five years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and considers how to build trust in public health. Initially developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Museum in Atlanta, the Philadelphia version features materials used in the development of the COVID vaccine at Penn and spotlights local healthcare workers and organizations.
Presented in the Thomson Gallery, the exhibition brings to life the concept of “trusted messengers” – the people and institutions that individuals and communities put faith in for healthcare information and decisions.
Visitors can expect to learn about the importance of trusted messengers and community-specific public health initiatives in making messages more accessible, acceptable and memorable, particularly for “historically underserved” communities. The exhibition will also invite them to consider the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on everyday life, mental health and their communities.
“The COVID-19 pandemic was a defining moment for all of us, especially those of us working in healthcare at the height of the crisis,” said Dr. Larry Kaiser, president and CEO of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. “Five years later, we’re still processing this moment in our shared history and its impacts on present and future healthcare concerns. This exhibition is an opportunity for reflection, learning and advocacy at a time when public health is under attack.”
Trusted Messengers will run until Feb. 2, 2026.The exhibition is open to museum visitors. Tickets may be purchased at www.muttermuseum.org. ••
Addressing foster parent shortage
The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Recruiting Families Using Data Act, which was introduced by U.S. Reps. Brendan Boyle and Randy Feenstra. This bipartisan legislation addresses the nationwide foster parent shortage by directing states to modify data collection efforts to address recruitment challenges and help connect children with safe and loving homes. Sens. Maggie Hassan and Chuck Grassley are leading companion legislation in the Senate.
“I’m proud to see our commonsense, bipartisan bill to improve foster care pass the House overwhelmingly,” Boyle said. “This bill puts children and families first so that we can build stronger connections between vulnerable kids and the foster parents who can help them reach their full potential. With the right resources, we can make real improvements to foster care across our country and ensure that every child has the support they need to thrive. I want to thank Rep. Feenstra, Sen. Hassan and Sen. Grassley for their partnership and I urge the Senate to swiftly send this bill to the President’s desk.”
The Recruiting Families Using Data Act would require the Department of Health and Human Services to work with states to establish a “family partnership plan.”
The family partnership plan required by this legislation would enable states to collect and report data on foster family capacity, congregate care utilization and the demographics of foster families; collect and report feedback from foster parents and foster family advisory boards regarding licensing, support, training and reasons why they have stopped taking placements; and establish goals, assess needs and measure progress in recruiting foster parents.
The legislation further requires HHS to produce an annual report to Congress regarding states’ data in order to identify national trends. ••
Celebrating poetry at Northeast Regional
Northeast Regional Library, 2228 Cottman Ave., will have programming in April in recognition of National Poetry Month. Adults are invited to join us in activities that combine crafts, discussion and exploring Northeast Regional’s poetry collection. Events will take place in the meeting room from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Here is the schedule:
April 8: Explore the library collection and collaborate on making something poetic to take home.
April 15: Make “blackout poetry” suitable for framing.
April 22: Create “book spine poetry” to hashtag (#) share.
April 29: Discussion, a game, exchange of recommendations and figuring out how to assemble personal poetry anthologies. ••
Free jazz show at Settlement-Northeast
Settlement Music School’s Kardon-Northeast Branch, 3745 Clarendon Ave., will celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month on Saturday, April 5, at noon. The free event will feature jazz music and refreshments and is open to the public. There will be performances by Tim Brey on piano, Justin Sokolowski on bass and branch director Matthew Clayton on saxophone. ••
Cruise to Italy, Greece, Turkey
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring an “Antiquity to Anatolia” cruise, Oct. 29 to Nov. 9, aboard Oceania Cruises’ “Oceania Vista,” sailing from Rome and visiting Cinque Terre, Naples/Pompeii and Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Cephalonia, Katakolon, Athens and Santorini, Greece; and Ephesus and Istanbul, Turkey. Rates per person, including round-trip air from Philadelphia, range from $6,150 to $6,450. For flyers, call 215-788-9408 or go to https://www.bristolhistory.org. ••
