Memorial Day ceremony
The public is invited to honor the fallen on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, at noon at the Charles J. Glenn III Memorial, at Marlborough and Wildey streets in Fishtown. The event will feature the Vietnam Veterans Society and the Philadelphia Police and Fire Pipes and Drums. ••
NY rep endorses Gym
New York Congressman Jamaal Bowman endorsed Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym.
“It is an honor to be endorsed by Congressman Jamaal Bowman, a fellow educator, community organizer and leading voice for transformative change in this country,” Gym said. “Congressman Bowman has been a relentless advocate for our public schools, families, educators and students, and his visionary leadership on a Green New Deal has provided a blueprint for how elected officials can prioritize the needs of everyday people over special interests. Like Jamaal, I believe that we lift up our communities, our cities and our country by putting our children, youth and public schools first.”
“In addition to our shared values, Helen and I have a lot in common. We’re both parents, educators and organizers who got into public service because we saw our kids and communities being left behind,” Bowman said. “For 30 years, Helen has been fighting for a stronger, safer and more just Philadelphia — and she has the track record to prove it. In the mayor’s office, she will fight for housing justice, worker justice, safer streets and a Green New Deal for Public Schools. Helen Gym is the only candidate with the experience and vision to lead Philadelphia to a better future, and I am thrilled to endorse her to be its next mayor.” ••
Gym on higher ed, museums
Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym stood outside Community College of Philadelphia to outline her vision for higher education and museum, and joined University of the Arts workers on the picket line in support of a new contract.
“Affordable, accessible and equitable higher education and cultural institutions are key to stabilizing, empowering and growing our city,” Gym said. “And we can only build a healthy, vibrant higher education system if we are adequately compensating and supporting the workers that make these institutions great places to visit, learn and grow. From the TUGSA picket line to Philadelphia Museum of Art workers demanding fair benefits to new organizing efforts at the Please Touch Museum, education and cultural workers are proving that Philly is and will always be a union town, and they have my full support.” ••
Rendell endorses Rhynhart
Former Gov. and Mayor Ed Rendell endorsed Rebecca Rhynhart for mayor.
Rendell noted that Rhynhart’s “experience as city treasurer, budget director and chief administrative officer, combined with her excellent record as controller, is unrivaled in this field.”
“She has the greatest depth and broadest experience in the government’s executive branch,” he said.
Rhynhart released the following statement on Rendell’s endorsement of her campaign to become the 100th mayor and first woman to lead the city:
“Gov. Rendell is one of the most transformative and widely respected leaders in our city and state’s history. It’s an honor to have earned his endorsement. His legacy demonstrates that we share the belief that our residents deserve leaders who will move our city beyond the status quo. That’s how I led as city controller, and that’s exactly what I will do as mayor. Gov. Rendell’s decision to endorse me also means that my campaign now has the support of three former Philadelphia mayors who bring a collective 24 years of experience doing the job. Their confidence in my leadership means a great deal to me and further proves that I have the knowledge, experience and courage to lead our city forward – making it safer and cleaner and providing our residents with true opportunity.” ••
Krajewski, Fiedler back Gym
State Reps. Rick Krajewski and Elizabeth Fiedler endorsed Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym.
“The progressive movement is united around Helen Gym and I’m excited to personally lend my voice to that support,” Krajewski said. “Working with Helen, I’ve seen her drive and follow through when taking on our city’s biggest and most intractable problems. Whether it’s fighting for housing for all or making sure our most vulnerable children have the education and school facilities they deserve, Helen has shown that she is unafraid to dream big and fight for her vision. It’s not just that she’s put forth a bold vision including a green new deal for schools, guaranteed youth employment and a holistic plan for public safety, it’s that her legislative record shows she can accomplish it. As an elected official standing against developers who want to sell our communities to the highest bidder, who sees our youth trapped between a gun violence crisis and cycles of divestment from our public goods, I know Helen is the champion we need and I’m excited to do all I can to ensure her victory on May 16th.”
Gym has also been endorsed by state Sen. Nikil Saval, Councilwomen Kendra Brooks and Jamie Gauthier, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, American Federation of Teachers, UNITE HERE Philadelphia, AFSCME DC 47, Working Families Party, AFT Pennsylvania, Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance, Sunrise Movement, Our Revolution, Teamsters Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division, Reclaim Philadelphia, One Pennsylvania, Make the Road Action, AAAFund, AAPI Victory Fund, Sierra Club, Food and Water Action, Amistad Movement Power, Philly Neighborhood Networks, the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, Free the Ballot, United Academics of Philadelphia, Straight Ahead, Faculty and Staff Federation of Community College of Philadelphia, Temple Association of University Professional, Temple University Graduate Students’ Association, Teamsters Local 623 (UPS and delivery workers), Conservation Voters of PA, 24th Ward Democrats, 18th Ward Democrats, First Ward Democrats, Second Ward Democrats, Ward 39A Democrats and Riverward Area Democrats. ••
Guardian Civic League endorses Alexander
The Guardian Civic League, which represents 1,500 black police officers in Philadelphia, has endorsed Democrat Jalon Alexander for City Council at large.
Alexander’s plan, “Drone Force Philly,” is meant to help deter crime and assist police in capturing those who commit violent crime.
“We know our idea for this special unit has caught on with audiences we meet across the city, but to have a law enforcement group like Guardian Civic League back our campaign is especially significant,” Alexander said. “Crime is the single biggest issue confronting our city, and evidence from other cities indicates my proposal to integrate a sophisticated, color-blind drone fleet into the Police Department will curtail crime.”
Alexander’s platform also includes greatly expanded tech training in city high schools to prepare students for well-paying abundant job opportunities.
The Guardian Civic League joins state Sen. Anthony Williams, Philly Forward PAC and Mothers Demand Gun Sense in supporting Alexander’s candidacy. ••
Polka party on May 21
The sixth annual spring polka party will take place on Sunday, May 21, from 3-7 p.m. at the Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road.
The TKO Band, from Baltimore, will perform. There will be a cash bar and a Polish kitchen.
Tickets cost $15.
For tickets or more information, contact John at 215-906-1825 or [email protected]. ••
Adult, teen programs at Richmond Library
Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St., is offering adult and teen programs.
Crochet Circle, for adults of all experience, will meet on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. on May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.
Chess Club will meet on Mondays from 4-6 p.m. on May 8, 15 and 22. Beginners are welcome, chess boards included.
Luck of the Irish will take place on Wednesday, May 17, at 4 p.m. There will be traditional Irish songs, music, stories and dancing.
Philadelphia Legal Assistance: Bankruptcy, Debt and Small Claims Resource Table will take place on Tuesday, May 23, from 3-5 p.m. At the resource table, you can talk with an expert and learn how to access legal aid and the next steps you can take with a legal issue.
Call 215-685-9992. ••
Children’s programs at Richmond Library
Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St., is offering children’s programs.
Preschool Storytime and Play Group will meet on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. on May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. Join Ms. Meghan for stories, songs and fun for ages 4 and under with caregivers. Stay after Storytime to play. Siblings welcome.
Read, Baby, Read Storytime and Play Group will meet on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. on May 11, 18 and 25. Join Ms. Meghan for lap time with stories, songs, rhymes and bounces for babies with caregivers. Stay after Storytime to play. Siblings welcome.
The Secrets of Magic with Ran’D Shine will take place on Thursday, May 11, at 4 p.m. All ages welcome.
Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program is in session Mondays through Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. and Fridays from 3-5 p.m. LEAP is a free, drop-in afterschool program that offers homework help and activities for students in grades K-12 every day after school.
Call 215-685-9992. ••
North Catholic reunion
Northeast Catholic Class of 1969 will meet on May 13 at 2 p.m. at Port Richmond Pub, 2601 E. Venango St. (at Almond Street). There will be a cash bar and food. To RSVP, contact Jack Devine ([email protected] or 215-379-3303); Tom Jordon ([email protected]); or Leo Filewicz (215-292-7193). ••
50th reunion
Northeast Catholic High School Class of ‘73 will hold its 50th reunion on June 1, from 6-10 p.m., at Brookside Manor, 50 Bustleton Pike, Feasterville. Tickets cost $73, payable to NC-73 Reunion. Mail to Mike Kaiser, 14014 Napier St., Philadelphia, PA 19116. Deadline is May 22. Cost includes appetizers, full buffet, dessert and open bar. ••
Wildwood days in June
The Lutheran Settlement House Senior Center is sponsoring a trip to Wildwood from June 5-9.
The cost is $650 and includes round-trip transportation; four nights at Oceanfront Hotel; four full breakfasts and dinners; a visit to historic Smithville and Cape May; and a dolphin watch cruise.
The trip is for people 55 and older. Contact Geneva Scafe at [email protected] or 215-426-8610, Ext. 1206. ••
Trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan
The Polish American Cultural Center Museum volunteers are sponsoring a 7-day, 6-night trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan from July 9-15. The trip consists of a ferry ride to Mackinac Island, two nights at the Grand Hotel, a horse-drawn carriage ride and visits to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the Henry Ford Museum and the National Shrine of the Cross in the Woods. The price includes bus transportation, hotels, six breakfasts, six dinners, a buffet luncheon at the Grand Hotel, admission to all attractions, baggage handling, taxes and gratuities. Call Theresa Romanowski at 215-813-2780 or 215-922-1700. ••
Bingo 3 times a week
The Ukrainian Cathedral, at Brown and Franklin streets, hosts bingo every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Games start at 6:30. Call 215-829-8103. ••
Rema in concert
Rema will make a stop at the Fillmore, 29 E. Allen St., on July 16.
Tickets are available at heisrema.com. ••
6LACK coming to Fillmore
Musical artist 6LACK will perform at the Fillmore, 29 E. Allen St., on Nov. 16.
For more information, visit vipnation.com. ••
Squad member backs Gym
U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, of Massachusetts, endorsed Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym.
“Helen Gym governs with empathy and compassion,” she said. “She is a coalition builder, an educator and an organizer. We have known each other for many years and I know that Helen Gym will be an effective and visionary mayor who centers the people always. Philadelphia deserves a mayor who works to make the city a place where everyone’s needs are met and their dreams realized. Helen will do just that.”
Other endorsements for Gym include New York Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, state Sen. Nikil Saval, Councilwomen Kendra Brooks and Jamie Gauthier, state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rick Krajewski, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, American Federation of Teachers, UNITE HERE Philadelphia, AFSCME DC 47, Working Families Party, AFT Pennsylvania, Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance, Sunrise Movement, Our Revolution, Teamsters Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division, Reclaim Philadelphia, One Pennsylvania, Make the Road Action, AAAFund, AAPI Victory Fund, Sierra Club, Food and Water Action, Amistad Movement Power, Philly Neighborhood Networks, the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, Free the Ballot, United Academics of Philadelphia AFT Local 9608, Straight Ahead, Faculty and Staff Federation of Community College of Philadelphia, Temple Association of University Professional, Temple University Graduate Students’ Association, Teamsters Local 623 (UPS and delivery workers), Conservation Voters of PA, 24th Ward Democrats, 18th Ward Democrats, First Ward Democrats, Second Ward Democrats, Ward 39A Democrats, Riverward Area Democrats. ••
Khan endorses Gym
State Rep. Tarik Khan endorsed Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym.
“I’m endorsing Helen Gym to be the next mayor of Philadelphia,” Khan said. “Our city is at a crossroads and the next mayor elected will determine which direction we go in. Helen and I share a vision that prioritizes access to health care, investments in our school communities and real public safety. We need a proven leader in City Hall full of energy and new ideas and who isn’t afraid to stand up to the status quo. Time and time again, Helen’s record of standing with the community for what’s right shows that she is willing to take on big fights and deliver for working families. Her leadership on the Emergency Housing Protection Act during the pandemic, which kept thousands of families in their homes, absolutely saved lives. As a Philadelphia nurse, I know this is the type of holistic approach our city needs to heal the many areas that are broken, and one of many reasons to vote for Helen Gym in the primary.”
Gym has also been endorsed by state Sen. Nikil Saval, Councilwomen Kendra Brooks and Jamie Gauthier, state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rick Krajewski, New York Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, American Federation of Teachers, UNITE HERE Philadelphia, AFSCME DC 47, Working Families Party, AFT Pennsylvania, Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance, Sunrise Movement, Our Revolution, Teamsters Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division, Reclaim Philadelphia, One Pennsylvania, Make the Road Action, AAAFund, AAPI Victory Fund, Sierra Club, Food and Water Action, People’s Action, Grid Magazine, Amistad Movement Power, Philly Neighborhood Networks, the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, Free the Ballot, United Academics of Philadelphia AFT Local 9608, Straight Ahead, Faculty and Staff Federation of Community College of Philadelphia, Temple Association of University Professional, Temple University Graduate Students’ Association, Teamsters Local 623 (UPS and delivery workers), Conservation Voters of PA, 24th Ward Democrats, 18th Ward Democrats, First Ward Democrats, Second Ward Democrats, Ward 39A Democrats and Riverward Area Democrats. ••
AOC endorses Gym
U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, of New York, endorsed Democratic mayoral candidate Helen Gym.
“Helen isn’t afraid to take on tough fights or go up against big special interests. And when she does, she wins,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “She’s delivered real results for her constituents – making communities safer, housing more affordable and public schools stronger. I am proud to endorse her.”
Gym has also been endorsed by Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, state Sen. Nikil Saval, Councilwomen Kendra Brooks and Jamie Gauthier, state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler, Tarik Khan and Rick Krajewski, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, American Federation of Teachers, UNITE HERE Philadelphia, AFSCME DC 47, Working Families Party, AFT Pennsylvania, Asian Pacific Islander Political Alliance, Sunrise Movement, Our Revolution, Teamsters Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division, Teamsters Local 623 (UPS and delivery workers), Reclaim Philadelphia, One Pennsylvania, Make the Road Action, United We Dream Action, AAAFund, AAPI Victory Fund, Sierra Club, Food and Water Action, Conservation Voters of PA, People’s Action, Grid Magazine, Amistad Movement Power, Straight Ahead, Free the Ballot, Philly Neighborhood Networks, United Academics of Philadelphia AFT Local 9608, Faculty and Staff Federation of Community College of Philadelphia, Temple Association of University Professional, Temple University Graduate Students’ Association, 24th Ward Democrats, 18th Ward Democrats, First Ward Democrats, Second Ward Democrats, Ward 39A Democrats and Riverward Area Democrats. ••
Lane closure on Frankford Avenue
PennDOT announced that the Philadelphia Water Department has begun utility construction on Frankford Avenue.
Through Wednesday, May 31, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., a weekday lane closure is scheduled on Frankford Avenue between Lehigh Avenue and Somerset Street.
All scheduled activities are weather dependent. ••
Go see Mamma Mia!
The Star Players, of the city Department of Parks and Recreation, will present Mamma Mia! from June 2-4 at 7 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets are available at Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St., or on Venmo @TheStarplayers. For more information, contact director Bill Arthur at 215-685-8714 or [email protected]. ••
Upcoming cruise
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is sponsoring a fully escorted Holy Lands & Aegean Majesty cruise that will sail Oct. 6-17, featuring 10 ports-of-call. Rates, including airfare, range from $4,198 to $7,998 per person, double occupancy. Call 215-788-9408 for information and reservations. ••
Cruise the Mediterranean
Norwegian Cruise Line will host a Mediterranean cruise from Rome to Venice on Oct. 10-19. The trip is all inclusive with round-trip airfare, a beverage package, all meals, three specialty dinners, taxes, transfers and all gratuities. The cost for a balcony sea view cabin is $3,511 per person. For more information, contact Fillmore Travel’s Kevin Fries at 215-498-8294 or [email protected]. ••
South Phila. HS class of ‘68 reunion
The South Philadelphia High School Class of 1968 will hold its 55th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 21, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Waterfall Room, 2015 S. Water St. Tickets cost $60 and include buffet dinner and open bar. For tickets and more information, call Arleen Liberi [609-922-2419], Maria Leati [856-287-3734] or Stephen Michielli [267-252-2740]. ••
