The Holme Circle Civic Association recently listened to a presentation by Bill Kenny and April Street, of the Register of Wills public engagement unit.
Kenny and Street spoke of the importance of having a will and living will (a medical directive) and establishing power of attorney. The original will, including an executor and heirs, should have two witnesses. It must be preserved and updated, if necessary. The individual should put it in a safe place and tell someone where it is.
Wills and living wills are important, they said, to settle issues that could arise among family members, such as whether to resuscitate and funeral plans.
In addition, they said the office can help residents probate an estate for heirs.
The office can also help people on issues such as marriage licenses, inheritance tax and guardianship. It partners with Community Legal Services on the issue of estate planning.
John Sabatina, of Rhawnhurst, was elected in 2023 as Register of Wills.
Call 215-MU6-6250 or visit phila.gov/wills.
In other news from the Feb. 26 meeting:
• The civic association approved $200 donations to Crispin Gardens Athletic Club and the One Philly Fund, which assists those affected by the airplane crash on Cottman Avenue. The civic also approved $100 to Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush to buy underwear and bras for students.
• State Rep. Ed Neilson will hold a shredding and e-cycling event on May 3, from 9-11 a.m., at Our Lady of Calvary Parish, 11024 Knights Road.
• Stan Cywinski, an aide to City Councilman Mike Driscoll, invited constituents to visit the office at 7552 Frankford Ave. or call 215-683-9220.
• Tom Neveil, the new executive director of the nonprofit Northeast Victim Service, attended the meeting. The office is at 16 Old Ashton Road. The website is nevs.org. The phone number is 215-332-3888. ••
