Overdose awareness
Socks for the Streets will be welcoming Angels Across America for an upcoming overdose awareness event. Anyone who would like their loved one’s picture displayed on a banner can email it by April 18 to SocksfortheStreets@gmail.com. There is no need to resubmit a banner if it’s already displayed. ••
Programs at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., has a number of upcoming programs.
Science Storytime & Craft with the Science History Institute will take place on Monday, April 14, at 2 p.m. The program is for kids 5 and up.
Family Storytime is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, at 11 a.m. Babies, toddlers and older siblings are invited for stories, songs and play.
Reptiles Rock is set for Tuesday, April 15, at 2 p.m. The presenter will be the Center for Aquatic Sciences. The program is for people of all ages.
Balloon Show will take place on Wednesday, April 16, at 11 a.m. Balloon shapes will be used to help kids act out a story and create a show. There will be lots of audience participation. The program is for kids 4-8, and no more than two children per household are allowed to participate. Registration is required. Call 215-685-0472. ••
Trip to Niagara Falls
Polish American Cultural Center is sponsoring a Niagara Falls, New York & Made in America Store trip from Thursday, July 10, to Sunday, July 13. There will be a canal Cruise and lunch, boat ride, underground railroad tour, wine testing, a visit to the Our Lady of Fatima Shrine and casino trip, with $25 slot play. The trip will be by motor coach, and there will be a three-night hotel stay with buffet breakfasts and dinners. The cost is $1,100 per person double occupancy, including taxes and gratuities. For more information and reservations, call Theresa Romanowski at 215-813-2780 or 215-922-1700. ••
2 events at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave., will host two upcoming events.
Fraud Awareness for Seniors will take place on Thursday, April 17, at 10:30 a.m. The Philadelphia City Controller’s office will present on financial fraud and abuse against older adults, how it occurs, tips for prevention and where to report.
Committee of Seventy: What’s On Your Ballot? is scheduled for Friday, April 25, at 10:30 a.m. Prepare for the upcoming election by learning about the different offices, candidates and ballot measures that will appear on the ballot. The session provides an overview of the key issues, how to research candidates and tips for making informed decisions when you vote.
Call 215-685-0472. ••
St. Jerome trip to Mackinac Island
St. Jerome Seniors are planning a trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan from Aug. 19-25. Cost for double occupancy is $1,685 per person. For reservations and trip details, call Diane McDowell at 267-496-2431. ••
8th Ward endorses Dugan
The 8th Ward Democratic Committee, the largest ward in Philadelphia, endorsed former Judge Pat Dugan in the Democratic primary election against District Attorney Larry Krasner. The 8th Ward has endorsed Krasner in the past.
Dugan said, “When I launched this campaign, I was told that there was no way Democratic committee members would go against an established Democratic incumbent – I am proud to say that the 8th Ward Democratic Committee has proven the naysayers wrong and endorsed me for district attorney.
“Committee members chose something different. They chose to vote their conscience. They chose to say that what’s happening in our city isn’t working — and that it’s time to try a different way forward.
“That takes political courage. And in a moment when speaking up can come at a cost, I respect it all the more. The 8th Ward chose to stand up and say that our city deserves better than Larry Krasner’s failed leadership.
“My vision for the District Attorney’s Office is rooted in the belief that safety and fairness go hand in hand. That means holding violent offenders accountable, expanding proven diversion programs and treating both victims and defendants with dignity and respect. I am grateful to Ward Leader Elaine Petrossian, her executive board and each and every committee person in the 8th Ward who share that vision. Thank you. I won’t let you down.” ••
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. 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. ••
St. Jerome Seniors to meet
Upcoming St. Jerome Seniors meetings are on Thursdays, April 10, April 17, May 8 and May 22, in the school hall, 3031 Stamford St. Arrive by 10 a.m. The meeting begins promptly at 11. ••
Cooking program for kids
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will host Cooking with Ms. Keisha on Monday, April 14, at 4:30 p.m. The program is geared to school-age children. Learn about cooking and baking techniques while working in teams, then eat the food you cooked. Call 215-685-8756. ••
Apply for driveway repair
Councilman Brian O’Neill announced applications are being accepted for the Driveway Repair Program, which covers the cost of repaving dilapidated shared driveways. Applications must be signed by at least 80% of residents on the impacted block. To request a petition or for more information, call 215-686-3422. ••
Block cleanup on Aldine
Volunteers are welcome to help The Block Gives Back clean up the 4000 block of Aldine St. on Saturday, April 19. The cleaning starts at 10 a.m., followed by a block party at 12:30 p.m. Cleaning supplies will be provided. ••
Buy palm at Our Lady of Consolation
Our Lady of Consolation, 7056 Tulip St., will be selling palm on Saturday, April 12, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and on Palm Sunday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Empanadas will also be sold on Palm Sunday. The sales are part of a fundraiser. ••
Bustleton Bengals clothing drive
The Bustleton Bengals will hold their annual clothing drive and “more” on Saturday, April 26, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., at President Street and Conwell Avenue. The Bengals will accept men’s, women’s and children’s clothing and shoes; accessories; household items; soft toys; and car seats and strollers. All donations must be in tied trash bags. If you cannot drop off your donations, call Chris Tarducci at 215-906-8179 for possible pickup. ••
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. ••
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. ••
Dougherty holding events
Rep. Sean Dougherty will hold a town hall on Thursday, April 10, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at St. Cecilia Church, 535 Rhawn St.
Dougherty will hold a mobile office on April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Ave. The event is open to the public to get a SEPTA Senior Key Card, have a Property Tax/Rent Rebate form completed and more.
Dougherty will hold a senior expo on May 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at CORA Services, 8540 Verree Road. There will be community resources and dozens of vendors.
Call 215-331-2600. ••
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 Betty Ann at 215-964-7125 or Connie at 215-338-9141. ••
Bingo fundraiser at Marian Hall
Gift of Giving is having its biannual cash bingo fundraiser on Saturday, April 26, at St Dominic’s Marian Hall, 8532 Frankford Ave. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo starts at 6:30. Tickets are $35 and include 10 games, beer, wine, soda and dessert. There will be a 50/50 and basket raffles. Call Tom at 267-312-5225. ••
Qi Gong classes at library
Holmesburg Library, 7810 Frankford Ave., will host free Qi Gong classes on Tuesday, April 15, Monday, April 21, and Tuesday, April 29. Qi Gong is an ancient exercise like tai chi that focuses on slow, mindful movements. It helps to improve health and relieve anxiety. You can attend all or just one of these classes. Call 215-685-8756. ••
Meeting in Fox Chase on April 9
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: April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, Sept. 10, Oct. 8 and Nov. 12. ••
Bingo at Christ the King
Christ the King Men’s Association will present bingo on Saturday, April 12, in the CTK parish hall, 3252 Chesterfield Road. Doors open at 6 p.m. The first call will be at 7. Admission is $20, which includes 10 bingo cards. Additional cards, daubers, beer, wine, soft drinks and bagged snacks will be available for purchase. There will also be a 50-50. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and refreshments. For tickets or more information, call Craig Cherry at 215-901-0073 or Rick Good at 215-992-4092. ••
Upcoming events at Ryerss
Ryerss Museum & Library, 7370 Central Ave., in Burholme Park, will host several upcoming events.
Here is the schedule: Saturday, April 12, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes; Friday, April 25, 1-3 p.m., Book Club; Saturday, April 26, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Storytime: Flower Power; and Saturday, April 26, 1-3 p.m., Open Sketch in the Museum, all levels.
To register or for more information, call 215-685-0599 or visit ryerssmuseum.org. ••
Senior luncheon at Fox Chase church
Memorial Presbyterian Church of Fox Chase, 7902 Oxford Ave., will host a Senior Luncheon at noon Wednesday, April 16. ••
Tumor support group
A neuroendocrine tumor support group will meet virtually on April 16, from 4-5 p.m. The group will be led by Fox Chase Cancer Center social workers. Interested patients can email Anjali Albanese at Anjali.Albanese@fccc.edu or Mark Itzen at Mark.Itzen@fccc.edu for a link to participate. ••
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. ••
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. ••
Passover Seder at Temple Beth Ami
Temple Beth Ami, 9201 Old Bustleton Ave., invites the public to a Passover seder on Sunday, April 13, at 7 p.m. The cost for the catered kosher dinner is $65, or $36 for kids 12 and younger. Call 215-673-2511 or email templebethami2@gmail.com ••
Preschool storytime
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host Preschool Storytime & Play on Thursdays, April 10, May 8 and June 12 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. ••
Nutrition event at Jeanes
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, 7600 Central Ave., will host Chronic Disease and Maintaining Nutritional Health, presented by clinical dietitian Morgan Elmore, on Tuesday, April 15, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. To register, call 215-728-4861 or email Rosemarie.Schlegel@tuhs.temple.edu. ••
Events at Jeanes
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus, 7600 Central Ave., will present two upcoming events.
The Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will meet on Wednesday, April 9, from 5-6 p.m. Speakers will be nurse practitioner June Ro and Dr. Willard Kasoff, a neurosurgeon.
Jeanes will mark National Healthcare Decisions Day on Wednesday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in its main lobby. There will be information on living wills and power of attorney.
To register, call 215-728-4861 or email Rosemarie.Schlegel@tuhs.temple.edu. ••
Stress reduction
Holy Family University, 9801 Frankford Ave., will host a free mindfulness stress reduction class on Wednesday, April 9, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Education Technology Center building, Room 412. Register at www.holyfamily.edu/familycenter, familycenter@holyfamily.edu or 267-341-3305. ••
Upcoming opera shows
Amici Opera Company will present two performances of Massenet’s Don Cesar De Bazan on Saturdays, April 12 and 26, both at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.
There will be three performances of Donizetti’s Lucia Di Lammermoor, including Sunday, April 27, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale, and Saturday, May 3, at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer.
There will also be a performance on Tuesday, April 29, at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park. Arrive by 6 p.m. Dinner is $54.95, not including tips and tax. For reservations, call 215-606-3800.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
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. ••
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 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. ••
Celebrating St. Katharine Drexel
The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament invite supporters and friends to gather for the 2025 Annual Gala, a special afternoon honoring the enduring legacy of their foundress, St. Katharine Drexel, on Sunday, April 27, at 3 p.m. at The Buck Hotel, 1200 Buck Road, Feasterville.
This year’s gala commemorates the 25th anniversary of St. Katharine Drexel’s canonization. The event will feature a keynote address by Robert Gutherman, whose miraculous healing led to the first recognized miracle attributed to St. Katharine Drexel.
Sponsorships and advertisements for the gala can be purchased until April 11. All ads must be submitted by April 19.
For more information or to attend the gala, visit https://www.katharinedrexel.org/news-events/gala-2025/, contact the SBS Gala Committee at sbscm.cfgp@gmail.com or call 267-592-6711. ••
Job fair at Tacony Library
Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave., will host a job and career fair on Tuesday, April 15, from 4-6 p.m. Area employers and educational institutions will be among the organizations in attendance. Call 215-685-8755. ••
The basics of Wall Street
Holy Family University will host Wall Street 101, a free program, on Wednesday, April 16, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Education and Technology Center, Room 412, 9801 Frankford Ave. Register at www.holyfamily.edu/familycenter, 267-341-3305 or familycenter@holyfamily.edu. ••
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. Call 215-788-2106 or visit bristolhistory.org for a flyer/reservation form. ••
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. ••
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. ••
Spring Tea in Bristol
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation, 321 Cedar St. in Bristol Borough, will be hosting its annual Spring Tea on Sunday, April 27, from 2-4 p.m. Ticket price is $40. Tea fare will include assorted sandwiches, fruit salad, scones, pastry and brewed tea. Featured attraction will be an exhibition by the Artists of Bristol. Advance reservations are required by April 19. Call 215-788-9408. ••
Take Back Your Neighborhood to meet April 21
Take Back Your Neighborhood will meet on Monday, April 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Max Myers Recreation Center, 1601 Hellerman St. The guest speaker will be Pat Dugan, a Democratic candidate for district attorney. ••
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. ••
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. ••
Flea market at Northeast High
The Northeast High School Alumni Association is hosting a flea market on Saturday, May 3. Rain date is May 4. The cost is $25 per spot for vendors. Email Nehsalum@gmail.com ••
Retreat in July
Mother Boniface Spirituality Center (3501 Solly Ave.) will host Come and Rest Awhile silent directed retreat from July 20-27. Take some time to pause in prayer, reflection and silence, attuning your ear and heart to the Holy Spirit. The retreat costs $650, which includes private accommodations and meals. Visit https://msbt.org/mbsc/ to register. Any questions, or to register by phone, call 267-350-1830. ••
Watch The King’s Highway
Daughters of the American Revolution Flag House Chapter will sponsor a showing of The King’s Highway on Saturday, April 19, at 1 p.m. at the Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road. Producer/director Jason Sherman will be on hand to discuss his documentary on Frankford Avenue and the Northeast. Register at cameo1200@gmail.com. ••
Graveyard tour at Trinity Church
Daughters of the American Revolution Flag House Chapter will sponsor a graveyard tour at Trinity Church Oxford, 601 Longshore Ave., on Saturday, May 10, at 2 p.m. Free will donations will be accepted but not required. There will be light refreshments afterward. ••
Clothing drive at Christ the King
The Christ the King Parish Men’s Association will hold a clothing drive on Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4, from 8 a.m. to noon. Accepted items include men’s, women’s and children’s clothing; accessories such as belts, hats, scarves, handbags and gloves; small toys; footwear; and soft household items such as towels, blankets, bed sheets, pillows, quilts, comforters and curtains. Everything must be placed in plastic bags, separated by item type. Drive to the hall, 3252 Chesterfield Road, and volunteers will remove the bags from your vehicles. ••
Program for preschoolers
Katharine Drexel Library, 11099 Knights Road, will host Movement Adventure on Thursday, April 24, at 10:30 a.m. Move through the story Going on a Bear Hunt with actions, exercise, dance and yoga. Dramatic and pretend play will keep little ones engaged, while giving them a workout for the body and mind. The program is best for preschoolers ages 2-5 accompanied by an adult. Call 215-685-9383. ••
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 April 25-27
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, children’s activities and cultural experiences. For more information, visit GermantownJazzFestival.com or call Sherri Pennington at 267-882-7385. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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. ••
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/ ••
Easter egg hunt
Memorial Presbyterian Church of Fox Chase, 7902 Oxford Ave., is hosting an Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a rain or shine event. ••
Fashion show at local church
Crescentville United Methodist Church, 400 Sentner St. (at Hasbrook Avenue), will host Hats Off to Spring, a fashion show, on Sunday, April 27, from 1-3 p.m. The show and program will have a 1950s and 1960s theme. There will be a display of hats, including African head wraps, from the late 1800s to the present. Refreshments will be served after the show. Admission is $10. All are welcome. For tickets, call Sue Snyder at 215-771-4442. ••
Fox Chase researchers study colon cancer care
Removing and testing at least 18 lymph nodes during surgery was associated with more accurate staging and better survival rates for colon cancer patients, according to research presented at the Society of Surgical Oncology 2025 Annual Meeting. The findings from researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center challenge the current standard of care for staging colon cancer, which calls for removal and examination of 12 lymph nodes.
Patients with colon cancer have lymph nodes removed along with their colon to determine whether their cancer has started to spread to the nodes. Patients with cancer that has spread benefit from receiving chemotherapy after surgery, which has been proven to increase their survival and cure rates. Thus, taking out enough lymph nodes during surgery to accurately determine if the cancer has spread is a critical step in a patient’s care.
A team of Fox Chase researchers set out to determine whether removing and testing more than the current standard resulted in more accurate staging and better outcomes. The team was headed by Dr. Praveen Chatani, a Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellow at Fox Chase and lead author on the study, and senior author Anthony Villano, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery.
Using data from the National Cancer Database, the team analyzed the records of 195,000 patients who underwent colon resection surgery from 2010 to 2021. The researchers determined the likelihood of a patient being “upstaged” to stage III based on the number of lymph nodes they had removed and tested. Patients who had at least 18 nodes taken out were more likely to have disease found in their lymph nodes, compared to patients who had 12 to 17 nodes removed. With each additional node removed, the odds of upstaging increased.
Thus, removing at least 18 nodes improved the accuracy of identifying who needs chemotherapy. Importantly, patients who had at least 18 lymph nodes removed lived 21 months longer on average than those who had fewer lymph nodes removed.
“For patients with colon cancer, having disease in your lymph nodes is the difference between stage II and stage III. For most patients, it determines whether they need chemotherapy after surgery,” Chatani said. “Our results show that by taking out and studying more lymph nodes — at least 18 — we are far less likely to incorrectly label a patient as stage II. This means patients are more likely to get the right treatment after surgery and, ultimately, live longer.”
Chatani and his colleagues also found that more than a quarter of patients will have their cancer upstaged to stage III after lymph node removal. They were also able to identify specific risk factors for being “upstaged,” so they could more appropriately counsel patients on this risk before operating.
“Patients want to know their odds of needing postoperative chemotherapy” Chatani said. “Prior to our research, we have not had convenient tools to accurately predict who will have involved lymph nodes following surgery. We should be able to quantify someone’s risk of having nodal disease and use that to frame the conversation. Telling someone, ‘You’re probably going to need chemo,’ and mentally preparing them for that goes a long way in fostering a patient’s comfort with their treatment plan. Nobody likes surprises.”
Based on their research, Chatani and his team identified numerous predictive factors for upstaging and are using them to quantify the likelihood of having cancerous lymph nodes despite a negative CT scan. Jordan Fredette, a statistician and co-author on the study, translated the data into a user-friendly risk calculator.
“Once finalized, it will be made available to physicians nationwide and could fundamentally change the way we counsel patients before colon cancer operations,” Chatani said.
The study, “Incidence of and Risk Factors for Radiographically Occult Nodal Metastases in Colon Cancer: Is it Time for a New Lymphadenectomy Standard?” was delivered as a podium presentation at the Society of Surgical Oncology 2025 Annual Meeting, which was held in Tampa, Florida. ••
Register for 2026 PGA Championship tickets
The PGA of America announced ticket registration for the 2026 PGA Championship, one of golf’s four majors, marking its return to the Philadelphia region for the first time since 1962. The PGA Championship, taking place from May 11–17, 2026, at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, will feature 156 of the world’s top professional golfers.
Coinciding with Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary celebrations, the 2026 PGA Championship will be a marquee event during a historic year, bringing increased visibility and tourism to the region. The Championship is expected to generate more than $125 million in economic impact, supporting local and regional businesses, while its global television broadcast will reach nearly 500 million households in 180-plus countries.
The tournament is expected to draw more than 200,000 attendees. Due to historically high demand, spectators are encouraged to register early at pgachampionship.com/register. Ticket registration is open through May 27.
“The 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club will offer a truly special experience for both players and spectators,” said Ryan Ogle, Championship Director. “This historic venue, located in a city with a rich sports culture, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable PGA Championship. By registering early for tickets, individuals will have the best chance to witness golf’s best players compete for the Wanamaker Trophy. We expect the event to sell out, and through our ticket registration program, we aim to provide a seamless ticket-buying experience for those interested in attending the 108th PGA Championship.”
To ensure widespread access to the most in-demand ticket types, 2026 PGA Championship tickets are sold exclusively through a free, no-obligation, online ticket registration (pgachampionship.com/register) process. By participating in this process, individuals are registering for a place in line – first come, first served – for the opportunity to purchase tickets when they go on sale in May. The earlier an individual registers the better, as historically many of the most popular ticket types have sold out in advance of past PGA Championships.
Registrants will be assigned a group and purchase window. As their designated purchase window approaches, they will receive instructions on how to complete their order. To register, spectators must provide their name, email address and mailing address. Each individual is allowed only one registration per unique email address. Once all registration purchase windows have been completed, any remaining inventory will go on sale to the general public.
Additional ticket policies include:
• Juniors: Each ticketed adult may bring up to two juniors (age 15 and under) for free each day. No advance registration is required.
• Military: U.S. active duty, military retirees (with 20 years of qualifying service), Reserve and National Guard members are eligible to receive complimentary daily grounds tickets for themselves and one guest per day, subject to availability. These tickets will be available in the fall.
Details on ticket pricing and package options will be announced in May, ahead of ticket sales. The 2026 PGA Championship will exclusively offer Championship+ tickets to spectators, providing an elevated experience with inclusive food and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the event.
To stay updated on the latest PGA Championship news, visit PGAChampionship.com, follow @PGAChampionship on X and Instagram or go to facebook.com/pgachampionship.
For questions or assistance with ticket registration, email the 2026 PGA Championship office at 2026pga@pgahq.com. ••
Chance auction at Jeanes
The Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus Auxiliary Chance Auction will take place on Wednesday, April 30, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the patient care center lobby, 7600 Central Ave. A sheet of 25 chances and a grand prize chance will be on sale starting April 21 for $10 in the main lobby and gift shop. Call 215-728-2131 or email rosemarie.schlegel@tuhs.temple.edu. ••
Fox Chase researchers find promising rectal cancer treatment option
Results from a study presented by Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers at the Society of Surgical Oncology 2025 Annual Meeting suggest that chemotherapy followed by local excision is a promising treatment option for patients with node-negative low rectal cancer.
Currently, standard of care for most patients who have tumors in the lower part of their rectum is total mesorectal excision, which involves removing the affected rectum, surrounding fat and lymph nodes. This surgery is intensive and often requires patients to have an ostomy bag, which is worn outside the patient’s body to collect their stool, afterward. Only patients with early-stage T1 rectal cancer are eligible for local excision, which is a less extensive surgery with more minimal side effects.
“As you can imagine, all patients would like to avoid, if possible, having a permanent colostomy. So when they’re facing that surgical possibility, they really want to see if there’s anything else that we can do,” said Dr. Hannah Buettner, a Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellow at Fox Chase, who presented the results of the research.
“Our results found that by pairing it with chemotherapy, local excision can be an appropriate level of surgery in more cases. There are a lot of benefits. It’s a lower-risk procedure than total mesorectal excision, it has fewer side effects, and the recovery is shorter. The patient might be able to go home the same day as the procedure, as opposed to spending several days in the hospital with longer recovery.”
Vanessa Wookey, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Hematology/Oncology at Fox Chase, was the lead author on the study, and Namrata Vijayvergia, MD, Assistant Chief of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, was the senior author.
The researchers recruited 19 patients on the trial with clinical stage T1-T3 low rectal adenocarcinoma whose imaging showed no evidence of cancer in their lymph nodes. Each patient received six cycles of chemotherapy, and 16 patients whose tumors shrank or disappeared then underwent local excision. Fifteen of those patients met the study’s primary endpoint, which was negative margins — no evidence of cancer was found in the tissue near their tumor site.
The next step in this research, Buettner said, is to scale up the study and create a second arm for comparison.
“Our study asked: Can we get patients to negative margins using neoadjuvant chemotherapy? The answer, so far, is yes. Studying more patients and also having a comparison between patients who get total mesorectal excision versus local excision will be the next step in getting more robust data to help clinicians and patients make informed treatment decisions,” she said.
The study, “Phase II Study of Organ Preservation (OP) in Node-Negative (NN) Low Rectal Cancer (RC): Updated Clinical and Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs),” was presented at the Society of Surgical Oncology 2025 Annual Meeting, which was held in Tampa, Florida. ••
Indoor Spring Fling April 26
Prince of Peace Church, 6001 Colgate St. (at Comly Street), is having an indoor Spring Fling on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a flea market, baked goods and chances sold for gift baskets. Homemade soups, hot dogs, meatballs, pulled pork and mild sausage will be available for sale. All are welcome. ••
Easter Sunrise Service
The Far Northeast Philadelphia Ministerium announces its annual Ecumenical Easter Sunrise Service on Easter morning, April 20, on the grounds of Glen Foerd riverfront estate, 5001 Grant Ave. Neighbors from all denominations are invited to celebrate the resurrection of Christ and hear the Gospel story. Clergy from Baptist, United Methodist, Lutheran and Episcopal congregations will join in the celebration. A free-will offering will be collected to aid Family Promise of Philadelphia, an advocacy and shelter for homeless families. The service begins at 6:30 a.m. Bring lawn chairs. Call Pastor Owen Griffiths of Faith Lutheran Church at 215-637-4210. ••
Tartaglione moves to ban injection sites
In a 38-11 vote, the state Senate passed Senate Bill 347, introduced by Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.), to prohibit the operation of safe injection sites in Pennsylvania. All 11 votes against the bill came from Democrats. The bill moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
“Safe injection sites are not the solution to Pennsylvania’s opioid crisis,” Tartaglione said. “As someone in long-term recovery and as the senator representing Kensington — the epicenter of this epidemic — I believe we can and must do better. Recovery is possible, but it starts with real treatment and real support, not sanctioned spaces for drug use.”
SB 347 clarifies that no facility in Pennsylvania may legally operate for the purpose of providing a space for individuals to use illicit substances. The bill does not impact other harm-reduction measures, such as access to naloxone or syringe-exchange programs, but it ensures that state policy prioritizes pathways to recovery over enabling addiction.
Under federal law, maintaining drug-involved premises is already illegal, yet some jurisdictions have allowed these facilities to operate. With attempts to establish similar sites in Pennsylvania, Tartaglione’s legislation provides clear, state-level protections against this practice.
“Our focus must be on expanding proven addiction-treatment programs and giving people the resources they need to reclaim their lives,” Tartaglione said. “I have walked the road to recovery, I know firsthand that people can rebuild their lives with the right support.” ••
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. ••
