Rep. Jared Solomon last week presented $50,000 in state Department of Community and Economic Development funding to The Merchants Fund, which has supported small Philadelphia businesses since 1854.
Jill Fink, executive director of The Merchants Fund, accepted the check during a presentation at Journey Hair Salon, 7041 Castor Ave.
The site was chosen to honor owner Tomika Miles Ways, who has spent 39 years as a hair stylist and has owned Journey Hair Salon for 20 years, first opening on Cottman Avenue.
Solomon presented a citation to Miles Ways for her business success and for offering classes and being a mentor. She is also president of the Castor, Bustleton & Cottman Business Association.
The businesswoman thanked her late parents, Jerry and Elleo Miles, for their role in her success.
“They are smiling down upon me,” she said.
Solomon recalls meeting Miles Ways a decade ago when he was pursuing a “Castor Avenue renaissance,” trying to reduce crime and provide economic investment.
“When we met, it was the beginning of that renaissance,” said Solomon, adding that the work branched out to Cottman Avenue and Rising Sun Avenue and has included banners, trash cans and the hiring of business corridor managers.
Solomon thanked The Merchants Fund for being a “critical partner.” The fund has helped Journey Hair Salon build new styling stations and make other improvements.
Solomon also noted that the fund went door to door on Cottman Avenue to assist businesses after the January 2025 plane crash.
“The Merchants Fund has been there,” he said.
Solomon is looking forward to a $25 million investment on Castor Avenue that will include new lighting, sidewalk and aesthetic improvements and safety measures for pedestrians and motorists, including narrowing the road from four lanes to three, with left-turn signals.
“We’re going to have one of the most beautiful corridors in the city of Philadelphia,” he said. ••
