LIHEAP applications open
Philadelphia Gas Works is urging income-eligible customers to apply for heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
The program, administered by the state Department of Human Services, provides cash grants of up to $1,000 to help eligible households pay heating bills. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, making early applications important.
Customers are encouraged to gather their PGW account number, latest gas bill, proof of income for the past 30 days and Social Security numbers and dates of birth for everyone in the household.
Applications can be obtained by texting “CASH” to 77037 or visiting pgworks.com/liheap. Residents also can contact a Neighborhood Energy Center for in-person assistance or visit the Pennsylvania LIHEAP Assistance Office at 1163 S. Broad St.
Customers can sign up for LIHEAP alerts and find eligibility guidelines at PGW’s website. ••
WXPN to host free Philly Anthems concerts
WXPN will host two free concerts at 3025 Walnut St. celebrating Philly Anthems, a project featuring original music inspired by themes of freedom and independence.
Supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, the project brought together five nationally recognized artists and eight emerging Philadelphia musicians to create 13 original songs. Featured artists include Christian McBride, Devon Gilfillian, Eliza Hardy Jones, Eric Bazilian and Lady Alma.
The first concert is scheduled for Nov. 11, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and music beginning at 7:30 p.m. Performers include Bazilian, Hardy Jones, Moustapha Noumbissi, The Flying Vees, The Bul Bey and Second Star. RSVP information is available online.
The second show will take place Dec. 10 at the same time, featuring Gilfillian, Lady Alma, Sug Daniels, Grace Gardner, Black Buttafly and JR Everhart.
RSVP information for the December concert will be available at xpn.org at a later date. ••
City Council hearing examines Academy of Natural Sciences museum closure
City Council held a hearing to examine Drexel University’s decision to close the Academy of Natural Sciences’ public museum Sept. 30, drawing a packed chamber of residents and advocates pushing for its reopening.
Councilmember-at-Large Nina Ahmad and 5th District Councilmember Jeffery Young authorized the hearing to examine public access, funding and Drexel’s responsibility to the Academy. Three panels included museum advocates and experts, Drexel and Academy leadership, and impacted staff and collections experts.
Ahmad said the hearing confirmed the public’s commitment to reopening the museum. She announced plans to establish a task force bringing together advocates, Drexel and Academy affiliates, and potential financial partners to explore options for the museum’s future.
The hearing included nearly 150 letters of public comment and more than 30 letters of support collected by Ahmad’s office. The hearing is recessed until Nov. 16. ••
Scanlon introduces bill to expand civics education
U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon has introduced legislation to expand civic education and service-learning programs in public elementary and secondary schools amid concerns about declining federal support for civics instruction.
The Teaching Engaged Citizenship Act would authorize $400 million for grants supporting evidence-based civic education and service-learning programs. The bill also would establish an Office of Civic Education within the U.S. Department of Education to promote civics instruction nationwide.
Other provisions would require national civics and history assessments in grades four, eight and 12, with results reported nationally and by state. The legislation also would establish an annual Excellence in Civics Award and support educational materials through the Library of Congress, National Archives and other institutions.
Scanlon, a Democrat who represents Pennsylvania’s 5th Congressional District, said civic education helps young people understand their responsibilities as citizens and participate in government and their communities.
According to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, federal funding for K-12 civics education increased from $7.75 million in 2022 to $23 million in 2024. The bill’s provisions would require congressional action to become law. ••
Apply for up to $1K rebates on property taxes or rent
Older Pennsylvanians, widows and widowers, and people with disabilities have until Dec. 31 to apply for state rebates on property taxes or rent paid in 2025.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program provides eligible applicants with up to $1,000 in relief, with the amount determined by income. The program is available to residents age 65 and older, widows and widowers age 50 and older, and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
Applicants must meet income requirements and reapply each year. The maximum standard rebate is available to those with annual incomes of $8,550 or less. Those earning between $8,551 and $16,040 may qualify for a $770 rebate, while applicants earning between $16,041 and $19,240 may receive $460. Those with incomes between $19,241 and $48,110 may qualify for $380.
The state Department of Revenue has processed 491,343 rebates totaling $294.7 million so far in 2026 for property taxes and rent paid in 2025, according to the Shapiro administration.
Eligible residents can apply online through the state’s myPATH system or find information about eligibility and assistance at pa.gov/ptrr. Online applications are available in English and Spanish, and no account is required.
In-person assistance is available through Department of Revenue district offices, local Area Agencies on Aging and state legislators’ offices.
Residents checking the status of an existing claim can use the “Where’s My Rebate?” tool on myPATH. They will need their Social Security number, claim year and date of birth. ••
Frank, Elvis and Dean
The Chairman & The King will be performing on Thursday, Nov. 19, at Villa Barolo Ristorante, 1373 Easton Road, Warrington. Joey C will perform as Frank Sinatra, while Jeff Krick Jr. will entertain as Elvis Presley. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. The show starts at 7:30. Tickets are $100, including taxes and gratuities. For tickets, call Villa Barolo at 215-491-9370.
The Frank & Dean Together Again Dinner Show will come to the Maltese Room, 2049 Bristol Pike in Bensalem, on Saturday, Nov. 21. Joey C will perform as Frank Sinatra, while Robert Cabella will sing as Dean Martin. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner is at 6, followed by the show at 7:30. Tickets are $60 and include one complimentary glass of wine or beer. For tickets, call Tom O’Neill at 215-675-9700. ••
For more than 50 years, KenCCID (Kensington Community Corporation for Individual Dignity) has supported individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
KenCCID is highlighting Life Sharing, a personalized, community-based residential option that creates meaningful connections and a sense of belonging for individuals with IDD.
Life Sharing connects an individual with a qualified person or family who welcomes them into their home and everyday life. Unlike a traditional group home setting, Life Sharing focuses on developing a lasting relationship and creating a sense of home and community.
Life Sharing partners share everyday experiences — from meals and celebrations to community activities and personal milestones — while supporting individuals in pursuing their goals and building greater independence.
“Life Sharing is about much more than providing a place to live. It is about creating relationships, belonging and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful lives as valued members of their communities,” said Maku Warrakah Ali, CEO of KenCCID.
KenCCID works alongside individuals, families and Life Sharing partners by providing guidance, training, resources and ongoing support to help create successful, lasting relationships.
KenCCID is seeking compassionate individuals and families who are interested in opening their homes and becoming part of a meaningful Life Sharing partnership.
Community-based living gives individuals opportunities to build friendships, develop life skills, work or volunteer, participate in recreational activities and remain active members of their communities.
KenCCID supports adults with a range of disabilities and support needs through a person-centered approach that recognizes and celebrates each individual’s unique strengths, goals, abilities and potential.
KenCCID will celebrate more than five decades at the 2026 Possibilities Gala on Friday, Nov. 20, at 4 p.m. at La Luna Banquet Hall in Bensalem.
The event will bring together families, community leaders, businesses, advocates and supporters to celebrate the achievements and potential of individuals with IDD and support opportunities that promote dignity, independence and inclusion.
To learn more about KenCCID’s services, Life Sharing or how to become a Life Sharing partner, call 215-288-9797 or email kenccidfamily@kenccid.org ••
Virtual 5K run will raise money for diabetes foundation
The Kopp Foundation for Diabetes is holding a virtual 5K run from Nov. 13-20, in honor of World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14. Every step supports KFD’s mission to empower youth, expand diabetes education and build a healthier future for people impacted by Type 1 Diabetes. The fee is $25 and there is a 10 percent discount if participants share the picture on Instagram. Register by Nov. 16 at https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Philadelphia/KFDStepUpChallenge.
Participants can run the 5K in their usual spot, be it a trail in a park or a treadmill in a gym. Since this is a virtual run, they can run the 5K all at once or in stages, as long as they submit their information by Nov. 20. This 5K raises both awareness about diabetes and funds for the work Kopp Foundation, a youth-led nonprofit dedicated to transforming Type 1 Diabetes care through innovation, equity and leadership. According to the International Diabetes Federation, one in nine adults worldwide have diabetes and by 2050 the number of people living with the disease is expected to reach 853 million.
World Diabetes Day takes place on Nov. 14, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin in 1922. It was created by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization, and it is the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign. To learn more about World Diabetes Day, go to https://worlddiabetesday.org. ••
Volunteer for child literacy program
Philly Reading Coaches is looking for volunteers for the 2026-27 school year. Each coach reads one-on-one with a K-3rd grader for at least one hour per week after school. Visit ost.phila.gov/philly-reading-coaches or email PRC@phila.gov ••
New website for Review
The South Philly Review has returned to the website patimes.media.
The website includes news, arts and entertainment, crime, sports, opinion and a way to sign up for a free newsletter that will bring stories to your inbox. The site also includes a way to read the paper in “flipbook” style and a link to subscribe to the print edition. Copies of the paper can be found at the locations in this link: https://patimes.media/pickup-locations/#spr
Readers are also encouraged to follow the newspaper on Bluesky, on Facebook and on X @SoPhReview. ••
North Catholic 100th anniversary events
A couple of events are planned for the 100th anniversary of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales ministry in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the opening of Northeast Catholic High School.
Here is the schedule:
• Nov. 8: Gathering of Alumni, family and friends, FOP Lodge 5
• Nov. 11: Veterans Day at St. Dominic
Call 215-543-1051 or necathalum@aol.com ••
See Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
The Star Players will present Scrooge: A Christmas Carol on Friday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Tickets cost $10. Buy on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, call 215-685-8714 or email Starplayers2013@gmail.com. ••
Caribbean cruise in January
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter will cruise aboard the Norwegian Pearl to the Caribbean (Dominican Republic and St. Thomas), leaving out of Philadelphia’s Southport Marine Terminal, 5400 S. Broad St., Building 3, on Jan. 13 and returning Jan. 23. Group amenities include 5% off inside cabins, 10%-15% off ocean view, balcony, open bar/soda packages, shore excursion credits and 300 Wi-Fi minutes. Call Bernadette at 570-401-8417 for cost and additional information. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Get free smoke alarm
The Philadelphia Fire Department provides free smoke alarms to city residents. Call 311 to request installation. ••
Host foreign exchange student
ASSE International Student Exchange Program is seeking local families to host foreign exchange students. Students come from countries such as Italy, Denmark, Spain, France, Ukraine, Japan and Australia. They are ages 15-18. Host families may be single parents, couples and single persons.
The exchange students have pocket money for personal expenses and full health, accident and liability insurance.
If interested in hosting an exchange student, call Holly at 800-677-2773, visit asse.com or send an email to asseusasouth@asse.com to request more information or start the application process. ••
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. ••
Special luncheon for charity
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is holding a Fall in Paris luncheon with entertainment at Bella Tori at the Mansion, 321 S. Bellevue Ave., Langhorne, on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon consists of salad, crudité of fresh vegetables with French and other imported cheeses, chicken fricassee, cod meuniere and pasta Provençal and assorted French-inspired mini pastries. There will be a cash bar. Entertainment provided by vocalist Calvin Pressley. In addition, there will be a cash-only sale of new and gently used handbags. The cost is $65 per person. Call Beth at 215-742-2703 or Laurie at 215-605-3016 for reservations. The deadline for reservations is Oct. 30. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Gift-wrapped with love
Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Board of Associates of Fox Chase Cancer Center, is running its 2026 holiday gift wrapping at the Willow Grove Park Mall, 2500 W. Moreland Road, Willow Grove, from Friday, Nov. 27, through Thursday, Dec. 24. Stop by the kiosk to have your holiday treasures wrapped. Call 215-464-4983 for more information. The event supports patient care and cancer research. ••
Exhibit on 1876 centennial
The Frankford Historical Society, 1507 Orthodox St., is hosting an ongoing exhibit. Using historic maps, photographs, artifacts and documents, Frankford and the 1876 Centennial provides a snapshot of Frankford at the time of the centennial. Still in the midst of an industrial depression, Frankford’s developing industries were not heavily represented at the Exhibition, but they were the heartbeat of the neighborhood. The fair offered Frankford visitors technological expertise and inspiration as well as a variety of souvenirs. Among the artifacts preserved in the Historical Society of Frankford’s collections is a rare carved chair from the Pennsylvania Pavilion, a match to ones owned by the Smithsonian Institution, the Atwater Kent holdings and in a private collection. The exhibit is open through the rest of the year during regular hours, which are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free. ••
Live oldies music at Polish Home
The Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, will welcome the Joey D and Johnny B Rockin Oldies Band on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 7-11 p.m. The donation is $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be a cash bar and kitchen. For tickets and information, call John Wisniewski at 215-906-1825. ••
Parkinson’s support group
Jeanes Hospital, 7604 Central Ave., will host a meeting of a Parkinson’s Disease Support Group on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 5-6 p.m. The guest speaker will be Dr. Teodora Schellato, a urologist. To register, contact June Ro at 215-707-2619 or Jungyoon.Ro@tuhs.temple.edu ••
Take part in Thanksgiving parade
The 49th annual Mayfair-Holmesburg Thanksgiving Parade will take place on Sunday, Nov. 22, at noon on Frankford Avenue. The grand marshal will be Torresdale Flower Shop and owner Antoniette Montgomery. Organizers are encouraging local businesses, schools, organizations and community groups to participate by entering a float, marching unit or other parade entry. Banner carriers are needed and will receive six community service hours. Carriers must be in seventh grade or above.
Apply at https://thanksgivingparade.org/2026Parade%20Application%20Form.pdf
Interested volunteers may email info@thanksgivingparade.org.
For more information, visit www.thanksgivingparade.org
To make a donation, go to https://paypal.me/thanksgivingparade or https://www.venmo.com/u/Mhthanksgivingparade ••
Amici to perform Carmen
Amici Opera Company will present four performances of Bizet’s Carmen.
Saturday, Nov. 14, at 3 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave.
Saturday, Nov. 21, at 4 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church, 1501 Brigantine Ave., Brigantine.
Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 6 p.m. at La Piovra, 7901 High School Road, Elkins Park. The cost is $54.95 (tax and tips not included) for dinner, dessert and the show. For reservations, call 215-606-3800.
Sunday, Nov. 29, at 2:30 p.m. at Dock Woods, 275 Dock Drive, Lansdale.
Call 215-224-0257 or visit the Amici Opera Company page on Facebook. ••
Apply for Glen Foerd Artist in Residence
Glen Foerd, the 18-acre public park and nonprofit cultural site along the Delaware River, is accepting applications for its 2027 Artist in Residence program through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6.
One Philadelphia-based performance artist or collective will receive a $3,000 stipend for a residency running from January through October 2027, with a final performance or exhibition opening Oct. 10. Eligible practices include music, theater, film and social practice. Applicants will be notified by mid-January.
The residency invites artists to develop site-specific work through research and engagement with Glen Foerd’s collections, architecture, natural landscapes and audiences. The program emphasizes experimentation and public engagement, offering artists opportunities to explore the historic estate through contemporary creative practices.
The selected artist or collective will also lead an activity or artist talk for Glen Foerd’s Teen Arts summer program. Staff will assist with logistics and marketing.
The 2027 residency jurors are Alex Tatarsky and Pete Angevine:
Alex Tatarsky creates performances blending comedy, dance-theater, performance art and song. Using humor, language and audience interaction, Tatarsky explores how people construct community and identity. Tararsky’s work has been presented at MoMA PS1, the Whitney Museum of American Art, The Kitchen and Glen Foerd as its 2023 Artist in Residence.
Pete Angevine is an independent creative producer and musician whose work connects public art, experimental music, healing and the natural world. His collaborations span experimental theater, public murals, interactive sound sculptures, watershed science tours and a rapid-growth native forest, to name a few.
Prospective applicants can attend free tours and question-and-answer sessions at Glen Foerd, 5001 Grant Ave., at 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. A virtual information session will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20. Registration is required; links are available on the application information page.
Applications require contact information, a 250-word artist biography, a resume, a 500-word project proposal and five work samples. A recommendation letter is optional. The $10 application fee can be waived upon request.
For application details and submission links, visit www.glenfoerd.org/air-for-applicants. Questions may be directed to Isabel Brown, arts and culture program officer, at isabel@glenfoerd.org. ••
