ENTERTAINMENT

A SHOT IN THE DARK, a mystery-comedy by Marcel Achard and adapted by Harry Kurnitz, will be presented at The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave., Friday, Sept. 16 through Oct. 1. All shows are at 8 p.m. except Sunday shows, which are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the door, $12 for students with ID, Thursdays 2-for-1. 215-247-8881 or online at www.thestagecrafters.org.

THE BACH FESTIVAL CELEBRATES ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON in 2005/06. Opening night is on Monday, Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Ethical Society on Rittenhouse Square. http://Bach-Fest.tix.com or 215-247-BACH.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Saturday, Sept. 17, Drums & Tuba; Friday, Sept. 23, Tea Leaf Green Calf Mountain String Band; Saturday, Sept. 24, Alana Davis. Times and cover charges vary. Jazz Jam will take place every first Tuesday at 8 p.m.; singer/songwriter night is the second Tuesday at 8 p.m. Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. www.nxnwphl.com or 215-248-1000.

FREE JAZZ CONCERT in Vernon Park on Germantown Avenue above Chelten Avenue: Saturday, Sept. 24, 4-7 p.m., Odean Pope Trio. 215-844-4100. 215-849-4873 or e-mail gtnssd@covad.net.

THE DELAWARE VALLEY OPERA COMPANY presents “Phenomenal Finales from Great Operas” at 3 p.m. on Sundays, Sept. 25 and Oct. 2 in the Paul D. Osimo Theatre on the grounds of the Hermitage Mansion, Henry Ave. and Hermit Lane. The box office opens at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for non-members, $18 for members and senior/student (with ID) non-members, $15 senior/student (with ID) members. Children under 12 are half-price. Picnickers are welcome. Snacks and beverages may be purchased. Parking is free, wheelchair accessible. Free insect repellant provided. 215-725-4171 or www.dvopera.org.

THE PHILADELPHIA LIVE ARTS [FORMERLY FRINGE] FESTIVAL takes place through Sept. 17 at venues throughout the city. www.livearts-fringe.org or 215-413-1318.

GOSPEL JAZZ BLUES CELEBRATION in honor of John Coltrane will be on Saturday, Sept. 24, 7-11 p.m, on the Loeb Performing Arts Center at Germantown Friends School, Greene Street & School House Lane. $20-40. Presented by the Vernon Park Neighbors Association. 215-849-5800.

KESWICK THEATRE: Sunday, Sept. 18, "Law'd I'm Coming Home;" Friday, Sept. 23, Madeleine Peyroux w/ Martha Wainwright Duo; Saturday, Sept. 24, “The Wizard Of Margarita Isle”; Tuesday, Sept. 27, Porcupine Tree w/ special guest Robert Frip. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

MERMAID INN: Friday, Sept. 16, Stevie & The Bluescasters; Saturday, Sept. 17, Timberline; Friday, Sept. 23, Tom Gala & the Terraplanes; Saturday, Sept. 24, The Philadelphia Bluegrass Band. Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill; 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

OSAKA, 8605 Germantown Ave., will be presenting Chestnut Hill jazz flutist Walter Bell every Monday evening from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Enjoy one of the best flutists recording today along with fine Japanese cuisine. No cover; reservations suggested: 215-242-4084.

MOVIE MANIA is a fundraising effort for the Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA. You get to see first-run movies in the theater before they're released and support an important charitable cause at the same time. Call 215-517-5070 for details.

JAZZ FLUTIST WALTER BELL, of Chestnut Hill, is a featured performer each Sunday at Hibachi, Pier 19, Columbus Blvd. & Callowhill St., from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations: 215-592-7100. www.walterbellmusic.com.

AT THE LAROSE CLUB, 5531 Germantown Ave., Tony Williams plays jazz on Mondays; you can take dance lessons and/or dance to the oldies on Wednesdays; enjoy live jazz and Caribbean music on Fridays; and dance to the oldies on Saturdays. 215-844-5818.

THE MUSIC STUDIO on 8611 Germantown Ave. presents concerts on Saturday afternoons at 2 p.m.: Enter through the Evergreen Avenue parking lot; $7 pp includes refreshments. 866-450-0826.

MAPLEWOOD MUSIC STUDIO will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Sunday, Oct. 9, from 3-7 p.m. at North by Northwest, 7165 Germantown Ave. All students and teachers, past and present, all friends of the studio & their families are invited for an afternoon of great music, food, drink and friendship. Faculty & friends will perform. RSVP by Sept. 25: 215-848-8353 or RichRudin@verizon.net.

ARTS

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-6; Sun 12-4; and by appointment. Through Oct. 8: “Magical Realism,” a two-person show featuring paintings & sculpture by Suzanne Benton and still life oil paintings by Martha Escobar. 215-248-4649 or www.jmsgallery.com.

** WOODMERE ART MUSEUM, 9201 Germantown Ave.: Explore your creative energies and sign up for Woodmere’s art classes for adults, including drawing and painting, watercolor and design, landscape painting, portrait and figure clay sculpture, and drawing and painting from live models. Fall exhibits include Senior Artists Initiative, Sept. 18 – Jan. 8; The Pennsylvania Impressionist Legacy, Sept. 25 – Jan. 8; The Ella May Fell Collection, Sept. 25 – Jan. 8. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

GALLERY SAINT MARTIN, 7811 St. Martin's Lane. Paintings, prints, ceramics by emerging and nationally known artists. By appointment only through September: 215-247-7811 or www.GallerySaintMartin.com. Coming in October: “Illuminé,” painterly photographs by Sandra C. Davis.

THE CHESTNUT HILL GALLERY, 8117 Germantown Ave., has a new exhibit through Oct. 29, featuring works by John Lear, Gary Kresge, John Stinger and Mary Kane. Grand opening reception: Friday, Sept. 16, 6:30-9 p.m. The gallery is open Tuesday – Friday, 10-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10–4 p.m.; evenings and Sunday by appointment. 215-248-2549.

ALLENS LANE ART CENTER, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, offers a wide range of classes for children and adults. The fall session begins Sept. 26. “Blessing Of The Animals,” a multimedia art exhibit portraying interactions between humans and other animals, will be on display from Sept. 23 - Oct. 16, with an opening reception on Friday, Sept. 23, from 7 - 9 p.m. 215-248-0546  or www.allenslane.org.

THE WISSAHICKON ART CENTER, 5245 Ridge Ave., Roxborough, offers classes for kids and adults in performing and visual arts. Call 215-482-4860 for details.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER, 100 Cedar Grove Road, Conshohocken, offers a variety of art workshops for adults and children throughout the year, plus theater and museum trips. A wine tasting gala and fundraiser will be on Nov. 4 from 6-8 p.m. Bus trip to N.Y. (Met or MOMA) will be on Nov. 13. 610-825-0917.

KAREN SINGER TILEWORKS, 90 E. Church Lane in Germantown, offers day and evening tile and ceramics classes for adults and children year-round. 215-849-7010 or www.karensinger.com.

CALL FOR ENTRIES: 25th Annual Craft Show and Sale at Cheltenham Art Center, Nov. 4-13; and Homage to the Square, Sept. 25-Oct. 22. Information: info@cheltenhamarts.org or 215-379-4660.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY, 6780 Germantown Ave: Learn how to mosaic. 215-848-2110 or classes@bellamosaic.com.

SEWING FOR THE SOLDIERS is a Civil War exhibit hosted by the Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., through Oct. 20. The exhibit includes prints and drawings from the era of women putting garments together for Northern and Southern soldiers. The museum and library are open every Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 215-844-1683 or www.germantownhistory.org.

ART IN 2 WORLDS: THE NATIVE AMERICAN FINE ART INVITATIONAL, a contemporary art exhibition organized by the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, will be on display at the Michener Art Museum, 38 South Pine St., Doylestown, through Oct. 16. www.michenerartmuseum.org or 215-340-9800.

ART IN CITY HALL presents Contemporary Masks, featuring the work of 21 professional Philadelphia artists exploring the theme of three-dimensional wearable masks, including Deborah Curtiss, of Germantown. The exhibition highlights ceramics, fiberglass, papier-mâché, found objects, installations and works in various media. Contemporary Masks will be on exhibit through Oct. 14 on the second and fourth floors of the N.E. corner of City Hall.

ANNUAL FALL HARVEST MARKET AT THE BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM features crafts by regional artists. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 17, 18, 24 and 25; Oct. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 29 and 30; and Nov. 5 and 6. Brandywine River Museum Courtyard, U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford. $8 for adults; $5 for senior citizens, students and children ages 6-12; free for members and children under six and on Sunday mornings in September from 9:30-noon. Price includes admission to the museum. 610-388-2700 or www.brandywinemuseum.org.

HIGHLAND AVENUE FINE ARTS. New Chestnut Hill art school is now open, providing professional fine art instruction in studio environment. Small classes and private sessions available for children, teens and adults. 215-247-5089.

“PLANTS FOR ALL REASONS,” flower and landscape paintings from the studio class of Phoebe Shish, is on display at The Morris Arboretum Upper Gallery, 100 Northwestern Ave., daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Feb. 10. Free with regular garden admission: adults $10, seniors (65+) $8, youth (3-18) and students (with id) $5, children under 3 and members free. An opening reception for the exhibit will be on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 1 – 3 p.m. Reservations are required — call 215-247-5777. www.morrisarboretum.org.

ORMISTON MANSION 2005 ART SHOW, with seven contributing artists, will open to the public on Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Meet the artists and tour the mansion. Ormiston Mansion is located at Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park. Call 215-247-5790 for directions.

NATURE/GARDENS

** AT THE MORRIS ARBORETUM, 100 Northwestern Ave: The renowned Garden Railway is open through Oct. 10. Also — trips, activities and classes are going on now — for amateurs as well as professionals — adults as well as kids — including drawing, painting, horticulture, perennial gardening, landscape design and floral design. 215-247-5777, ext. 169 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

THE WISSAHICKON ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER (The Tree House) is located in Fairmount Park at Northwestern Avenue and Forbidden Drive. 215-685-9285. 

** AT THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE), 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Roxborough: Take a night hike on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 7-8:30 p.m. Festival of Insects is Saturday, Sept. 17, noon-3 p.m. NABA meeting — Butterflies of the White Mountains — is on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 1-3 p.m. 215-482-7300, ext. 110 or www.schuylkillcenter.org.

THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION,12 Morris Road, Ambler, has some new fall classes. “Babies & Beasties,” for toddlers ages 18 months to two and a half years, will meet on Wednesdays, Sept. 14, 21 and 28 from 9:30 to 10:30. Parents & Polliwogs, for children ages two and a half to four years, will meet on Thursdays, Sept. 15, 22 and 29 from 9:30 to 10:30. The cost is $20 per child for a three class series. Space is limited and preregistration is required; call 215-646-8866. “Insect Games” is a family program (ages 5 and up) on Sunday, Sept. 18 at 2 p.m. Learn to like bugs as we catch insects and watch them participate in miniature competitions. Cheer on your athlete as it does the high jump, sprint or swim. $2 per child for members; $4 for non-members. Call 215-646-8866 to register.

HIKE THE WISSAHICKON with various groups throughout the month. Call the Friends of the Wissahickon at 215-247-0417 for details or click www.fow.org/calendar/calendar.htm.

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY offers a variety of classes throughout the year at various locations, such as basic garden design, botanical illustration with watercolor, basic ikebana, Japanese gardening, Tree Tenders training and city gardening. Walks through the gardens and grounds of Meadowbrook Farms, Chanticleer and elsewhere are also part of the program. Call 215-988-8869 or go to www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org for details.

FOR THE KIDS

** THE CHESTNUT HILL LIBRARY, 8711 Germantown Ave.: Call 215-685-9290 for story time hours.

MAKIN’ MUSIC, an interactive music program for preschoolers and their caregivers, takes place on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 9:15 or 10:15 at the Water Tower Rec Center, and Mondays and Tuesdays at St. Philips in the Field Church, Oreland. 215-233-2560.

SATURDAY ART CLUB FOR KIDS ages 6-10, 1-3:30 p.m. run through Nov. 19 at Amoeba Art Shop Annex, 7174 Germantown Ave. (at Mt. Airy Ave.). Cost per session: $25 + $10 materials fee. Register at the shop, online at www.amoebaartshop.com/classes.php or call 215-242-4568.

CUMMINS SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE: classes run through December. Classes are offered at the Commodore Barry Club on Emlen St. and Carpenter Lane. Details: www.cumminsschool.com or call 215-508-1763.

KID SUMMIT 2005: STRENGTHENING FAMILIES will be held Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Eleanor C. Emlen Elementary School, Chew & Upsal streets. Kid Summit is sponsored by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – Beta Delta Chapter of Philadelphia, providing an opportunity for local youth, their families and their community to engage in a cultural, motivational, informational and recreational forum. Information: Diane Wilson, 267-738-8398 or Stephanie Wise, 610-308-5838.

AT THE FALLS OF THE SCHUYLKILL LIBRARY, 3501 Midvale Ave., East Falls: Mother Goose Time for babies up to 18 months and caregivers will be on Thursday mornings at 10:30, Sept. 15, 22, and 29. Family Story Nights for children up to 6 and their caregivers will be on the first three Wednesdays of the month 6:30 p.m. through Dec. 14. Homeschool Book Club will begin meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 27. For information on other meeting dates and times, and to request the book for the month, call Liz Heideman at 215-685-2093.

BORDERS, 8701 Germantown Ave.: Children’s story time is held the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. 215-248-1213.

THE LOVETT LIBRARY, 6945 Germantown Ave.: Call 215-685-2095 for story times.

CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR. Bring your children 3-5 years old to story time, a walk and craft-making at The Highlands, Sheaff Lane and Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Fort Washington, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, Sept. 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12 & 26. $3/child for non-members of The Highlands, free for members. 215-641-2687.

NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S CENTER INC. ministry at Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., offers kid’s club for ages 3 – 13 every first and third Saturday from 10:45 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kids experience Bible time, music, games, arts and crafts and more. Lunch is provided. Drama club and drill team programs are also available. 215-479-9375.

FUN BIRTHDAY PARTIES WITH AN HISTORIC TWIST. For kids aged 7-12, a party at The Highlands includes historic games, crafts, dress up, scavenger hunts and more. The Highlands is located at 7001 Sheaff Lane, Ft. Washington. 215-641-2687.

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Avenue and Cherokee Street, has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. Lots of new rental skates. $6 admission; $1 guest card; $3 skate rental; open adult hockey, group skating lessons and hockey instruction, figure skating and synchronized skating for all ages and abilities at varied times and days, plus birthday parties. Information: Lydia at 215-247-1759 VM #13.

AAU BASKETBALL TRYOUTS. The Philadelphia Select Boys AAU Basketball Program is now recruiting boys ages 12-16 to try out for its traveling team. Parents must accompany their athletes to the tryouts. For an invitation (parents only) call Mr. Jones at 267-386-5817.

AT THE PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM, 210 N. 21st St: Through Sept. 30, enjoy an interactive science exhibit called “Contraptions A to Z” along with many other fun activities for the kids. www.pleasetouchmuseum.org or 215-963-0667.

BRAIN FOOD

WHICH IS SCIENCE: DARWIN’S EVOLUTION OR INTELLIGENT DESIGN? Consider all aspects of the controversy at a Lincoln Drive Forum on Thursday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Society of Germantown, 6511 Lincoln Drive. 215-844-1157.

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE. The Springfield Township Open Space Planning Committee will host a community open house on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 7 p.m. at the township building to present the updated space plan to interested community members. The Open Space Plan serves as a guide to acquiring new open space, forging connections through existing open space, and developing programs and policies to preserve and maintain active and passive open space in the township. The plan is available at www.springfield-montco.org.

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA will host a program expo at the Shelly Ridge Program Center, 330 Manor Rd., Miquon, on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 1-4 p.m. This event is a great place for scout leaders, youth group leaders, teachers, librarians, and other adults who create programming for youth to come up with creative ideas for the upcoming year. $5 pp. 215-564-2030, ext. 259 or www.gssp.org.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF FORT WASHINGTON will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 8 p.m. to hear about the history of Germantown Academy, presented by Edwin Probert. The meeting will be at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington. 215-646-8753.

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE PHILADELPHIA will hold a French conversation luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 12:30 p.m., at Cafette, 8136 Ardleigh St. Information and reservations: 215-735-5283.

JEANES BOOK SALE. The Friends of William Jeanes Library will host their fall used book sale on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 18 from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the library, 4051 Joshua Road in Lafayette Hill. On sale will be hardbacks and paperbacks, a collection of Sherlock Holmes, a paperback political series, mysteries and coffee table books. There will be refreshments on sale from the kitchen. 610-828-0226.

ELKINS PARK BOOK SALE. The Friends of the Elkins Park Free Library holds its opening book sale of the season, Friday, Sept. 23, 7-9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 25, 1-3:30 p.m., 563 East Church Road, Elkins Park. Sale includes 15,000 books, board games, CDs, audio tapes, videos, magazines, records and more. Free. 215-635-5000.

KAPPA ALPHA PSI ACHIEVEMENT ACADEMY NOW ACCEPTING APPLICANTS. The Achievement Academy is an evening program that meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at the Kappa Alpha Psi Achievement Center at 5521-29 Germantown Ave. (corner of Germantown Avenue and School House Lane). The program provides multifaceted mentoring, counseling and training activities targeted to African American and other minority male youths between the ages of 9-18. The application deadline is Sept. 30. The academy seeks students with the ability and desire to excel in a demanding but fun program that is designed to help students learn the secrets of improving life skills through personal development. The major components of the Academy include life skills workshops, a computer lab and youth leadership initiatives. 215-848-4227 or www.achievementacademy.net.

MINI-MEDICAL SCHOOL. Register now for Drexel University College of Medicine's Mini-Medical School. The 8-week community education program is open to anyone 18 or older interested in learning more about the medical field. Classes begin Sept. 27. 215-762-6800 or www.drexel.edu/med/minimed.

OPEN DISCUSSION SESSION — in preparation for next year's Global Constitution Forum in Philadelphia — will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at Summit Presbyterian, 6757 Greene St. Free. Lunch provided. Local leaders are beginning a series of planning sessions to develop a vision of global law, politics, ecology and human understanding. All are welcome to discuss the agenda for the forum in the spirit of peace and humanitarian benefit for our future. Information: Jim Ranney at 215-849-9165 or Ben Freeman at 215-991-6259.

BEGINNER COMPUTER CLASSES are starting at Interac Center, 6012 Ridge Ave., on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 4-5:30 p.m. for 10 sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Learn computer terms and jargon, word processing, e-mail and the Internet. The class moves slowly, with repetition and handouts. The cost is $80 for adults 55+ and $75 for adults 60+. Call 215-487-1750 to register or for more information.

KIDS THAT START AHEAD, STAY AHEAD! How to teach your newborn to six-year-old anything and everything joyously. View a free 44-minute introductory video production, featuring author Glenn Doman, every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Reservations: 267-440-2576.

SETTING LIMITS IN A POSITIVE WAY, Thursday, Sept. 22, 9:15-10:30 a.m., The Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Ave. Toddlers and preschoolers need to balance impulse control with natural curiosity. Learn to set limits while nurturing self-esteem. Class on Thursday, Sept. 22 is for parents of three-to-five-year-olds; class for parents of two-year-olds is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 21, 9:15-10:30 a.m. Call 215-753-2000 for information and to register. Cost: $10.

THE WON INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES, 137. S. Easton Road, Glenside, is offering “Abundant Living,” a thought-provoking, restorative cultural program. Programs, ranging from free lectures and open houses, workshops taught by holistic teachers from around the country, a film series and acupuncture wellness groups begin Sept. 9 and run throughout the fall. 215-884-8942 or www.woninstitute.org.

CONSTITUTION DAY. The National Constitution Center, in partnership with the American Bar Association, Scholastic, Court TV, C-SPAN and others, is offering educational and programming materials to schools, federal agencies and other institutions nationwide to help them organize events to commemorate Constitution Day, Saturday, Sept. 17. These materials are available at little or no cost at www.constitutionday.us. A variety of events will take place beginning Sept. 16 and throughout the weekend at the Constitution Center. Complete information: 215-409-6600 or www.constitutioncenter.org.

JONATHAN STEINBERG: JEWS AND THE CHRISTIAN RIGHT. Sunday, Sept. 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Gershman Y, 401 South Broad St. Why does the Christian Right support settlers in Gaza and the West Bank and the radical wing of Likud? Why do many fundamentalist churches celebrate Israeli Independence Day? The Evangelical churches believe without exception that Jews are the "chosen people.” Examine this concept with Jonathan Steinberg, Walter H. Annenberg professor of modern European history at the University of Pennsylvania. $20 includes continental breakfast. Call 215-446-3021 or register online at www.gershmany.org.

SELICHOT SCOLAR IN RESIDENCE: Dr. Arnold Eisen, professor of Jewish Culture and Religion at Stanford University, will lead discussions at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, 615 North Broad Street, on Friday & Saturday, Sept. 23 & 24. Free. www.rodephshalom.org.

AT THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway: Starting in September, the academy will be hosting five special, evening events designed to connect you with the science of your world. From entertaining stories of scientists in the Wild West, to serious discussions of critical environmental issues, to a thoughtful conversation with a Pulitzer Prize winner, these programs offer something for everyone. All events are free, open to the public and will be held in the academy's state-of-the-art auditorium. 215-299-1000 or www.acnatsci.org.

AT THE NATIONAL LIBERTY MUSEUM, 321 Chestnut St.: “Glass from Down Under,” a show featuring Australian glass artists, is on display through Sept 30. The museum’s “Big 2005 Glass Weekend” will be from Sept. 22-25, with tours, lectures, fine dining and a glass auction on Saturday evening, Sept 24. Hispanic Heritage Fun Month will run through Sept. 30. 215-925-2800 or www.libertymuseum.org.

AT THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER, 525 Arch St.: On display through Nov. 4, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War” will take visitors along a tense, exciting reconstruction of just how President Abraham Lincoln succeeded in saving the nation during this time of unparalleled turmoil. The center will host a town meeting with 9/11 commissioners on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m. Free, but seating is limited. Reservations are required, either by phone at 215-409-6700 or by e-mail at nationalprograms@constitutioncenter.org.

BEN FRANKLIN 300 PHILADELPHIA is a yearlong celebration of Benjamin Franklin’s 300th birthday in Philadelphia and Its Countryside™. Festivities will run from fall 2005 through 2006 and will focus on the world premiere of the international traveling exhibition, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World at the National Constitution Center. www.gophila.com/ben.

SOUL FOOD

MISHKAN SHALOM PREPARING FOR THE DAYS OF AWE. Mishkan Shalom, the Reconstructionist synagogue at 4101 Freeland Avenue in Roxborough, invites members, potential members and visitors to participate in preparation for the Days of Awe (Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur) at free classes on Sept. 14 and Sept. 18 and at a special forgiveness service on Saturday evening Sept. 24. For more information and/or directions, call 215-508-0226 or go to www.mishkan.org.

BINGO AT TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5300 Germantown Ave., will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 6-9 p.m. 25-848-8150.

SSJ CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY, 9701 Germantown Ave., offers weekend retreats, presentations and spiritual workshops throughout the year. Call 215-248-7222 for details.

CONGREGATION OR AMI: Classes in ethics, Torah study, women’s issues, basic Judaism and more, plus Shabbat services are held throughout the month. Call 610-828-9066 for more information. 708 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill.

THE JEWISH CHILDREN’S FOLKSHUL meets at the Germantown Friends School, Sharpless Building, 31 W. Coulter St. 215-248-1550 or www.folkshul.org.

PLYMOUTH VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH, 1090 Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, offers a full range of worship and community services and special events. 610-277-1690 or www.PVCCHURCH.com.

ORELAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, Papermill and Church Roads, Oreland. Bible preaching and teaching. Pastor Jim Farrell. Sunday worship services: 8:30 & 11; education hour for all ages: 9:45; youth program. www.orelandpres.org or 215-887-7002.

THE CECILIAN CENTER FOR EARTH, ARTS AND SPIRIT, 100 W. Carpenter Lane, is offering a full roster of interesting courses for the fall at their location and at the Mt. Airy Learning Tree. Brochure/information: 215-894-3364 or ceciliancenter@yahoo.com.

PLEASANTVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH, 126-28 W. Seymour St. (between Knox & Greene Sts.) is hosting a Community Day of food, fun and fellowship on Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Rain date Sept. 24). There will be informational tables available with literature for young and old. Music will be provided by area mass choirs and praise dancers. 215-844-1052.

BENEFIT CONCERT. Philadelphia Boys Choir and Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ will present a benefit concert for victims of hurricane Katrina on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. at the church, 6406 Ogontz Ave. 215-276-2960 or 215-222-3500.

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN, 6511 Lincoln Drive. Sunday, Sept. 18, 11 a.m., the Rev. Kent Matthies will address “Self-Reliance: Emerson’s Yin and Yang.” At 5 p.m., outdoor Equinox Service; 6 p.m., potluck dinner; 7 p.m., Sunday night lecture series, “George deBenneville, Early Universalist.” 215-844-1157.

PHILADELPHIA LUTHERAN SEMINARY TO DEDICATE NEW LEARNING AND CONFERENCE CENTER. The Brossman Center, the newest academic building on the campus of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), will officially open after a dedication service on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. Tours of the new facility, which represents a capital investment of $20 million, will be available starting at 2:30 p.m. and after the dedication. www.ltsp.edu.

THE GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH OF GERMANTOWN will be hosting its 11th annual Women’s Retreat from Oct. 28 – Oct. 30 at the Pocmont Resort and Conference Center. Deadline for registration is Sept. 25. Contact the church office at 215-438-3215 for more information.

HEALTH FOOD

BLOOD SUPPLIES REMAIN AT A CRITICALLY LOW LEVEL! Being a donor might not get your name in the newspaper or on TV, but it sure makes you an American hero. Information / scheduling: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS: Meetings are at Sunrise of Lafayette Hill, 429 Ridge Pike, on the second Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m.; and at Homelink (Adult Day Center), 6950 Germantown Ave., on the third Wednesday of the month from 7-9 p.m. 800-272-3900.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FAMILY CAREGIVER TRAINING will be at Maplewood Manor, 125 W. Schoolhouse Lane, on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free, but pre-registration necessary: call 215-561-2919. www.alz-delawarevalley.org.

FREE COMMUNITY BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS from Keystone Home Health Services. Keystone Home Health Services, Inc., of Wyndmoor, is providing a series of free blood pressure checks at three community locations. Home care RNs will staff the service tables and provide information if further medical assistance is needed. Monday. Sept. 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Acme/Savon Pharmacy, 7110 Germantown Ave; Wednesday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Borders Bookstore , 8701 Germantown Ave.; Friday, Sept. 23, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Acme/Savon Pharmacy, 1640 Bethlehem Pike. 215-836-2440 or www.keystonecare.com.

FAMILY CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP, Wednesday, Sept. 21, 6 p.m. program, Evergreen adult day program, 551 E. Evergreen Avenue, Wyndmoor. View the video “Dealing with Alzheimer’s: A Common Sense Approach to Communication.” Learn how to respond to the many behavior changes Alzheimer’s disease can cause and improve quality of life for older adults and their caregivers. Call 215-753-2000 for information and to register. Free.

MOTHER'S WRITING CIRCLE AT MATERNAL WELLNESS CENTER, 7149 Germantown Ave., will be on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 3:30 p.m. kathleen@maternalwellness.org or 215-242-1815.

NEW MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, Wednesday, Sept. 21, 9:30-11 a.m., Chestnut Hill Hospital, Lea auditorium, 8835 Germantown Ave. For the first time, Medicare is offering coverage for prescription drugs. Regardless of your income, you might save money through this program. Come hear about extra benefits for those with low income and those with existing prescription coverage. Presented by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Sponsored by the Chestnut Hill Health System Geriatric Resource Center. Call 215-753-2000 for information and to register. Free.

SMOKING: DROP IT LIKE A HOT NUCLEAR POTATO: Wednesday, Sept. 21, 7-8:30 p.m. at Healthworld, 8617 Germantown Ave. Angie Rapalyea, certified hypnotherapist, teaches simple but powerful ways to leave this poison behind and feel stronger now and in the future. 215-247-4363. ($7 donation requested but not mandatory.)

FOSTER CARE AND OLDER AND SPECIAL NEEDS ADOPTION INFORMATION MEETING will be on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Bethany Christian Services, 1333 W. Cheltenham Ave, Ste 101, Elkins Park. 1-800-215-0702.

JEWISH FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICE of Greater Philadelphia offers continuing education programs and classes on health and healing at various locations throughout the region. An Anger Management course will be on Sept. 21 & 28 in Ft. Washington; Women and Depression: An Educational Support Group is planned for November. Visit www.jfcsphil.org or call 215-540-3737 for more information.

LIVING BEYOND BREAST CANCER will host a networking meeting, "Genetic Testing: Understanding the Impact on You and Your Family," on Monday, Sept. 19, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Philadelphia Marriott West in West Conshohocken. Free; a light dinner will be served. On-site parking is available for a $3 fee. To register, go to lbbc.org or call 610-645-4567.

TOURS/TRIPS

HIDDEN TREASURE HOUSE TOUR OF PHILADELPHIA’S HISTORIC NW. Explore six exciting private homes in Germantown, Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill on Sunday, Sept. 25 from 1 to 5 p.m., sponsored by the Germantown Historical Society. Tickets may be purchased at the Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., or at Philadelphia Print Shop, 8441 Germantown Ave. Call 215-844-1683 for information.

EXPLORE GRUMBLETHORPE. A new historic house and garden tour has been designed for senior citizens at Grumblethorpe, 5267 Germantown Ave. Visit an 18th century house and garden. See Sally Wister’s bedroom, original kitchen and the desk where Owen Wister wrote his famous novel, The Virginian. See a restored Federal garden, America’s oldest ginkgo tree and the ruins of the observatory where Charles Wister charted the Grumblethorpe Meridian. Grumblethorpe is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Admission $4. 215-925-2251.

LAUREL HILL CEMETERY, 3822 Ridge Ave., is now fully open on weekends: Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; weekdays, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monthly tours focusing on different aspects of and/or people buried at the site are held on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. 215-228-8200.

JOHNSON HOUSE, a National Historic Landmark cited for its involvement in the Underground Railroad, is open for guided tours, which include a detailed history of the 240-year-old house, its rooms, its grounds and the hiding spaces used by fugitive slaves. There are collections on view related to the Johnson family and its involvement in Philadelphia’s anti-slavery efforts of the 19th century. Tours are by appointment on Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and by appointment or drop-in on Saturday from 1-4 p .m. The house, made of local Wissahickon schist, is located at 6306 Germantown Ave. on the corner of Washington Lane. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and $2 for children. Call 215-438-1768 to schedule a group or individual tour or with any questions.

YMCA CAPE COD TRIP. The Roxborough YMCA is organizing a 4-day, 3-night trip to Cape Cod from Oct. 17-20. The package includes motorcoach transportation, three nights lodging, three breakfasts, three dinners, including a lobster bake, fully escorted tours of Provincetown, Hyannis area and Historic Sandwich, Hyannis Harbor cruise, and a visit to Foxwoods Casino en route home. $324 per person. Contact Rosemarie Smeltzer at 215-482-3900, extension 30.

NEW YORK’S HUDSON RIVER VALLEY will be the destination of Springfield Township Historical Society’s bus trip on Saturday, Oct. 15. The day includes a tour of West Point and a Hudson River cruise. The $70 fee includes the tour of the Military Academy, the cruise and a box lunch. Wine and cheese will be served on the bus ride home. Reservation deadline is Sept. 30; call Andy Logan at 215-233-5992 to sign up.

MILLTOWN TO MAJESTIC: EAST FALLS ARCHITECTURE WALKING TOUR. Tour the early mill town once known as the “Falls of Schuylkill.” Its houses, from worker row houses to grand early 20th century mansions, trace the history of this picturesque neighborhood. The tour will be led by Ken Hinde, director of the special programs for the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks. Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. Meet at the Falls of Schuylkill Library. $10. Proceeds to benefit the East Falls Historical Society (EFHS).

MISCELLANEOUS

SAVE THE DATE. The Black & White Gala will take place on the 8500 block of Germantown Ave. on Saturday, Sept. 24. Volunteers are needed; call Susan at 215-248-8810 for details.

IT’S FINGER LICKIN’ GOOD! The popular Friday night dinners at Grace Epiphany Church, at the corner of Gowen Avenue and Ardleigh Street, return this month with a menu featuring old-fashioned southern fried or baked chicken. This delicious entrée is complemented by potato salad, string beans, rolls and hot and cold refreshments. The community is heartily welcome any time between 4:30 and 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 16. The cost is only $5 per adult and $3 per child with a maximum of $20 per family. Tasty baked goods are offered for a small extra charge. Diners may eat in or take out. 215-248-2950.

CHESTNUT HILL WEDNESDAY PEACE VIGIL, Wednesdays, one week at a time, until further notice, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in front of Border’s, Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike.

PRESCHOOL PLUS CHILD CARE CENTER of Mt. Airy is planning a social and fundraiser to benefit its music and art program on Saturday, Sept. 17, 1-3 p.m. at Grace Epiphany Church. 215-248-4455. They are also looking for submissions from alumni and parents for a book of stories about the center, to be shared at the social.

QUILT EXTRAVAGANZA will be at the Fort Washington Expo Center from Sept. 15-18. www.quiltfest.com.

INTERAC CENTER FOR OLDER ADULTS’ 17TH ANNUAL FLEA MARKET will be at the Langhurst Mansion, 6012 Ridge Ave., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Rain date is Sept. 25, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.). 215-487-1750.

AT THE CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER: 7999 Crittenden St: Storyteller Jill Kohles is the guest on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 1 p.m., following lunch with the board at noon (RSVP by 9/17). Great Books & Authors, Italian classes have returned to Monday mornings; beginning Spanish classes start Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. 215-248-0180.

HELPING HANDS NIGHT AT THE TROLLEY CAR DINER, 7619 Germantown Ave., will benefit the Waldorf School on Wednesday, Sept. 21. Fifteen percent of the revenue from diners mentioning their special cause will be donated. 215-842-4800, ext. 221 or www.trolleycardiner.com.

GRAND OPENING + FUNDRAISER. Cold Stone Creamery will help fulfill more than just ice cream wishes and waffle cone dreams as a new local store — at 1444 Bethlehem Pike in Flourtown — holds a fund-raising event on Saturday, Sept. 17, noon-5 p.m., to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Fifty percent of the day’s sales will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Philadelphia and Southeastern PA. The day’s activities will include face painters, a children’s coloring contest and raffles, so be sure to stop by.

RECYCLING scheduled for Sept. 17. Recyclables will be collected from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Unitarian Church of Germantown parking lot (enter off Johnson Street between Greene Street and Wayne Avenue). Weaver’s Way Cooperative and PhilaPride sponsor this third Saturday of each month collection. 215-843-2350.

AID FOR FRIENDS GOLF OUTING will be on Monday, Sept. 26, starting at 12:30 p.m. at the Northampton Country Club in Richboro. 215464-2224.

YMCA OF GERMANTOWN’S GOLF FOR STRONG KIDS fundraiser will be on Friday, Sept. 30 at noon at the Westover Country Club in Jeffersonville, PA. The event will benefit the YMCA of Germantown’s Youth Scholarship program. 215-844-3281.

SIPPIN’ BY THE RIVER, a, outdoor wine and beer tasting festival, to benefit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, will take place on Sunday, Sept. 25, from 1 to 5 p.m., rain or shine, on the Festival Pier at Penn's Landing, Columbus Boulevard at Spring Garden Street. Tickets: $25 pp in advance or $30 at the door. www.ccfa.org.

AUDITIONS. The Philadelphia Chamber Chorus welcomes singers of all parts to audition for its 2005 fall season.  Auditions will be by arrangement on Mondays in September at 42nd and Pine Streets in Philadelphia. Call 610-352-3565 or e-mail philadelphiachamberchorus@yahoo.com to schedule an audition.

THE SINGLES SCENE — a program of dancing and discussion for mature adults — is having a Zodiac Birthday Party (for Virgos) on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 6900 Stenton Ave. Thursday morning writing circles are at 9:30; a depression study group will meet on Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. 215-247-2561.

AT THE CENTER IN THE PARK, 5818 Germantown Ave. Call for a roster of activities: 215-848-7722 or www.centerinthepark.org.

GOSPEL CONCERT will be on Friday, Sept. 23, presented by the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Clergy-Aging Interfaith Coalition and hosted by veteran television reporter Trudy Haynes. Proceeds will benefit the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Emergency Fund, which provides crisis assistance for low-income, older Philadelphians. $12, includes a light lunch. Mt. Airy Church, 6401 Ogontz Ave., 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 215-765-9000, x4478.

LIVING BEYOND BREAST CANCER’S 11TH ANNUAL GALA will be on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. at the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal. www.lbbc.org.

REUNIONS I: Little Flower High Schoolclass of 1955 will celebrate a 50th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 24 — call 215-242-4474; class of 1945 will hold their 60th reunion on Sunday, Oct. 2 — call 215-947-1997; class of 1965 will hold its 40th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 15 — call 215-455-6900, ext. 118; class of 1970, will hold its 35 year reunion on Oct. 22 — call 856-693-4531 or Little Flower Alumnae Office, 215-455-6900.

REUNIONS II: The June 1970 class of Olney High School will hold its 35th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Holiday Inn – Northeast, 3499 Street Road, Bensalem, from 7 p.m. to midnight. www.olneyhighclassof70.com or call Betty Reibstein at 215-266-2497.

CONTRA DANCING takes place every Thursday evening, 8-11 p.m., at Glenside Memorial Hall, Keswick Ave. and Waverly Street, Glenside. There is always live music, with a different band each week. Admission charge. 215-643-4397 or www.thursdaycontra.com.

HERITAGE DANCE FESTIVAL will be on Friday-Sunday, Sept. 23-25, at Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School, Plymouth Meeting. Enjoy Contra, Swing, International Folk (Balkan, Israeli, and more) and English Country dancing all weekend long, complemented by Cajun, Clogging, Square Dancing, Latin, Tango, Vintage, Waltz, Scottish, Scandinavian and other dances, featuring live music, leading callers, experienced instructors, exciting performers, jam sessions, music and singing workshops; craft, clothing, and dance shoe vendors; tasty international foods and American cuisine, all operating simultaneously throughout the weekend. Family programming Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Admission: $5 to $40; ages 7 - 12 half price; children 6 and under free. 215-635-1013 or www.heritagedancefestival.com.

APPALACHIAN CLOGGING CLASSES run every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum streets. $7/session; no pre-registration required. Leather bottom or tap shoes are the most suitable footwear. 215-643-4397 or email info@fiddlekicks.com.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS w/ Maurice Edwards takes place at Summit Presbyterian Church (basement). Green and Westview Streets in Mount Airy on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Live drums. $15. 215-849-1484.

INTERNATIONAL DANCING takes place at Or Hadash, 190 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington from 8 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays. $5; free first time. www.beaverfolkdance.org or 610-688-3284.

DESIGN HOME 2005. Philadelphia magazine’s Design Home 2005 opens in the heart of Chester County with a showcase of the hottest in design trends, technology and materials. All tour ticket proceeds benefit MANNA, the local non-profit organization that delivers nourishment to people living with HIV/AIDS. The almost 9,000 square foot traditional Colonial Farmhouse is open for public tours Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-4p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. from through Oct. 2. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 215-781-7345 or logging onto www.mannapa.org.

WALK PHILADELPHIA offers dozens of guided architecture tours of the city and region. 215-625-9255 or www.walkphiladelphia.com.

CENTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK is Sept. 18-23. Three course dinners at 86 of the city's renowned restaurants for $30; parking for $8.50 or less from 5 p.m.-1 a.m.; chances to win dinner for a year; online reservations available. www.centercityphila.org/restaurantweek.

** Member of Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

VOLUNTEER

• Volunteers Are Needed for the Lupus Loop Walk & Run on Sunday, Oct. 30 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. Call 215-517-5070 or go to www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Volunteers Are Needed for the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, Oct. 9 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. Call 215-561-2919.

• Older Volunteers Sought For RSVP Program. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is seeking senior volunteers to participate in its RSVP program. RSVP, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, is a nationwide volunteer program for adults age 55 and over. Daily, weekly and monthly volunteer opportunities exist for participants to help strengthen their communities. One-time volunteer opportunities are also available for special community events. Depending on the volunteers’ experience and interest and the community’s needs, they will tutor and mentor children, counsel small businesses, distribute food to the homeless, assist at community events, health clinics, museums and more. For more information, call 215-765 –9000, ext. 5544, weekdays between 8:30 and 4:30 p. m.; e-mail RSVP staff at rsvp@pcaphl.org; or visit www.seniorcorps.org.

• Monkey Business, the benefit shop for the Friends of CHHC Foundation, is looking for volunteers. They only request three hours a week “and guarantee fun.” Contact Rose Marie Malley, manager, at 215-248-1835.

• Volunteers Needed for the Second Annual "Retrieving Memory" Golf, Silent Auction and Dinner event to benefit Alzheimer's Research and the Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter. This year’s event will be held on October 17, 2005 at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Last year’s event grossed over $200,000 for this important cause. For more information about volunteering or sponsorships please call Bruce Glendinning at 610-940-3909 or e-mail him at bruce22@comcast.net.

• Ronald McDonald Camp needs counselors for Aug. 14-20. 215-387-8406, ext.325 or www.RonaldMcDonaldCamp.org.

• Seeking Domestic Violence Hotline Volunteers. Philadelphia-based domestic violence agency seeks dedicated hotline volunteers to counsel women endangered by domestic violence and substance abuse. Volunteers participate in a 45-hour crisis intervention training (two nights per week) in fall 2005 and volunteer for 12 hours a month on the weekends from their own homes. 215-564-5301, ext. 118 or www.womenintransitioninc.org.

• Wissahickon Hospice is actively recruiting volunteers to serve and support hospice patients and families within the community. Once trained, hospice volunteers join the team of doctors, nurses, social workers, home health aides and pastoral counselors to provide care and support to patients and families facing end of life struggles. Whether visiting with patients in their homes, nursing homes or helping with administrative office duties and special events, volunteers give of their time, experience and talents to serve their community. 610-617-2400.

• You can be the one to make a difference in someone's life! Share your time, talent and energy as a volunteer for Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia. JFCS needs volunteers in a variety of areas. There are opportunities to volunteer as individuals, as families or as a group. For information call Sandra Fryer, JFCS director of volunteer services, at 215-698-9950, ext. 112.

• The Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA can always use help with general office work as well as for special events and projects. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Chestnut Hill Hospital is recruiting volunteers for a variety of challenging positions. Volunteers are needed in patient and non-patient care areas. Call 215-248-8289 or e-mail vsd@CHH.org.

• Fox Chase Cancer Center is looking for volunteers to provide administrative staffing assistance. Call 215-728-3110 for more information.

• Cancer Patients Need Your Help. Area cancer patients need your help to get to and from their medical treatments and appointments. Road to Recovery, a service program sponsored by the American Cancer Society, needs kind people to volunteer a few weekday hours to help a neighbor in need. Some mileage reimbursement is available and schedules are flexible. Reliable car and insurance required. For more information, call 610-692-0677.

• The Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking male and female volunteers to serve as mentors to the young men and women enrolled in DHS’ Achieving Independence Center (AI Center), a resource for young men and women in foster care who are “aging out” of the system. For many of these young people, there is no family or support network awaiting them. The AI Center enables these young men and women to acquire basic life skills, employment training, job opportunities and even a place to live. Mentors must be at least 21 years of age, be willing to make a 12-month commitment to the AI Center and volunteer a minimum of four hours per month. The AI Center staff will match you with a young person with whom you are compatible and provide you with mentor orientation and training sessions. The most significant requirements are compassion, strong listening skills and a desire to help someone less fortunate. To learn more about the program, call the AI Center at 215-574-9194.

• The Highlands Historical Society Needs Docents & Volunteers. Wanted: people-friendly, well-spoken individuals to help with special educational programs, guide historical interpretative tours and/ or work with children’s programs. Behind-the-scenes, physical help is also welcomed in the garden. Call Jennifer April at The Highlands Historical Society for more information: 215-641-2687.

• The Red Cross Needs Disaster Response Volunteers. Free training provided. Call 215-405-8558.

• The Center for Literacy is seeking volunteers to help improve the reading skills of thousands of area residents. Call 215-474-1235 or click www.centerforliteracy.org for more information.

• Foster Parents Needed. Catholic Social Services is looking for married or single adults to become foster parents to children of all ages, races and religions. Homes are also needed for children with special medical or emotional needs and for siblings who wish to live together. 215-587-3960.

• Historic RittenhouseTown needs volunteers for a variety of activities. 215-438-5711 or www.rittenhousetown.org.

• Samaritan Care Hospice is looking for volunteers to provide one-on-one companionship to terminally ill patients with a wide range of life-limiting illnesses, including cancer, end-stage cardiac diseases, ALS and end-stage Alzheimer’s. For information call 215-653-7310.

• The Franklin Institute Science Museum needs volunteers in a variety of areas, from mentoring Germantown students about careers in science and technology to greeting visitors to helping with the museum’s special events. Call 215-448-1163 or visit www.fi.edu.

• www.volunteersolutions.org/volunteerway/volunteer/ is a great starting point for you to find volunteer opportunities, as is www.philacares.com.

• The Mayor’s commission on service to the aging’s APPRISE program is seeking volunteers to counsel seniors regarding Medicare, Medicaid and health care fraud issues; training will be provided. For more information, call 215-686-8462.

USEFUL WEB SITES

• Behavioral Health & Mental Retardation Services information for Philadelphia-area residents is at www.philly.networkofcare.org.

• "Personal Safety for Children: A Guide for Parents" is available at www.missingkids.com.

• A cultural access guide for people with disabilities is at www.art-reach.org.

• Do not call! Avoid those telemarketers. Everything you need to know about the state and federal “do not call” lists is available at www.nocallsplease.com.

• Here’s an online club for children 7-14 with asthma: www.AsthmaBusters.org.

• Keep safety in mind when shopping for toys. Check the American Academy of Pediatrics at www.aap.org; and a nonprofit group, Kids in Danger, which notifies parents of recalls at www.kidsindanger.org.

• Learn about lupus at www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Philadelphia Alliance for Better Child Care (ABC) marked the debut of a Web site — www.phillyabc.org— to inform parents, providers and community leaders about early care and education in Philadelphia and released the Philadelphia Guide to Childcare Guides.

• See www.financialassistancenetwork.org for a free download about reducing your drug costs.

• The Arthritis Foundation maintains www.jointeffort.info, an interactive online resource page to help prevent, manage and control arthritis.

• The Clean Air Council’s “Green Guide” is at www.temple.edu/env-stud.

• The Federal Citizen Information Center of the U.S. General Services Administration maintains a Web site chock full of good, important information for consumers … and you can read everything for free: www.pueblo.gsa.gov.

• The National Constitution Center’s Web site, www.constitutioncenter.org, is chock full of information and activities.

• The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has launched its e-commerce site, www.pawineandspirits.com, which will offer mostly super premium and hard-to-find wines, often not available in the local store.

• The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission wants to help you make informed decisions about your choices of electricity, natural gas and telephone service. Click www.utilitychoice.org to learn how to make informed decisions.

• The U.S. government's official Web portal is www.FirstGov.gov, with links to thousands of pages featuring helpful services and information from federal, state and local government.

• There’s a virtual animal shelter at www.petfinder.com.

• To learn about your rights in dealing with debt, click http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc.htm. As a matter of fact, www.ftc.com can be one of your most useful resources.

• Traveling? www.bbonline.com can come in real handy if you’re looking for a bed & breakfast in which to stay.

• Want to know what’s going on around the state? Go to www.visitpa.com.

• Wondering about product recalls? To be notified automatically when a product is recalled, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at 1-800-638-CPSC and ask to be put on their mailing list, or sign up at www.cpsc.gov.

• www.attorneygeneral.gov is Pennsylvania’s site that is full of useful consumer protection information.

• www.mla.org is the site of the Modern Language Association, which will let you learn about what languages are spoken where in the U.S. — and in what percentage.

• www.oldcitydistrict.org takes you to historic, trendy Old City in Philadelphia, with a list of restaurants, shops and more.

• www.parentednet.org/ takes you to the Parent Education Network, which offers free information and technical assistance to parents of children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.

• www.phillyseaport.org takes you to a complete monthly listing of all activities at Independence Seaport Museum (or call the 24-hour programming hotline at 215-413-8621).

• www.readandrideclub.com takes you to the transit book club. As a member you will receive a monthly discount on featured Read & Ride book selections, invitations to unique literary events, and more. So ride public transit, sit back, relax and read!

• www.seniormatters.org takes you to FAIR, the site of the Fairness Advocates for Intergenerational Rights, who run programs like free 911-only cell phones and free “are you all right?” telephone calls for seniors. Whole Foods Markets are now a drop-off point for your used cell phones, in addition to the CHBA office at 8426 Germantown Ave. and other sites; contact FAIR at 215-333-4006 for details.

• Your guide to most things local in Chestnut Hill is www.chestnuthillpa.com or www.chestnuthill.org.

YOU SHOULD ALSO KNOW:

AAA NOW OFFERS A DISCOUNT DRUG PROGRAM FOR ITS MEMBERS. Get a brochure from a local AAA office or download it from www.aaa.com/prescriptions and follow the instructions. For a listing of participating pharmacies and more details about this program, visit www.aaa.com/prescriptions or call toll-free 866-222-7283.

BREAST CANCER RECOVERY GROUP, fourth Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m., Chestnut Hill Healthcare Women's Center, 8835 Germantown Avenue. Call 215-242-4700 for information.

BREAST CANCER SELF HELP GROUP meets the second Thursday of each month at Canaan Baptist Church, 5430 Pulaski Ave., Germantown, from 7-8:30 p.m. Information: 215-849-7004. Sponsored by Women of Faith and Hope.

CHILDREN OF AGING PARENTS caregivers support group meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, 7:30 p.m., at Atria Chestnut Hill, 495 E. Abington Ave. 215-247-5307.

DATING PARTIES FOR GROWN-UPS are now available in Chestnut Hill for a range of age groups at different times. Call 215-248-9642 or click www.philadelphia-speed-dating.com for all the details.

DROP-IN PARENTING DISCUSSION AND CHILD PLAY GROUP, Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Chestnut Hill HealthCare parenting education, Laughlin Hall, playroom, 8835 Germantown Ave. Chat with other parents about why you're not getting enough sleep, your house is not as clean as you'd like, your child doesn't easily follow directions and more. Children of all ages welcome. No need to register. Free. For information, call 215-753-2000.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY ANONYMOUS, a 12-step program for people recovering from addictive eating, welcomes newcomers and meets every Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. Call Pat at 215-836-0274 for more information.

FREE HELP FOR SMALL BUSINESS. Win free assistance in stabilizing or growing your business from the Greater Philadelphia Region of the International Institute for Independent Business (IIB-GPR). For an entry form and more information, call Bruce Murray at 215-848-4222 or e-mail bpmurray@infionline.net.

INDEPENDENCE TOASTMASTERS OF FLOURTOWN provides training in leadership and public speaking skills every first and third Tuesday of the month at Donato’s Pizzeria, 1851 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, at 6:30 p.m. Meal is optional. No charge for visitors; semi-annual dues is $24 for members. 215-342-4096.

MIRIAM’S WELL: A JEWISH SERVICE FOR HEALING, takes place on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Germantown Jewish Centre, 400 W. Ellet St. Rooted in Jewish tradition, the service is open to anyone wishing to pray for physical, emotional or spiritual healing. 215-844-1507.

MUSIC MEDITATIONS FOR PEACE AND HEALING, with Julia Haines on the harp, take place most Thursdays from 7:30-8:15 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church, 8812 Germantown Ave. 215-842-9123.

NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE GUIDE is available by sending your name and address to the Federal Citizen Information Center, Dept. 596M, Pueblo, CO 81009; calling toll-free 1-888-878-3256 and ask for Item 596M; or visiting www.pueblo.gsa.gov to read or print out the guide or hundreds of other FCIC publications for free.

NEW BEGINNINGS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP is held the first Thursday of each month from 7-8:15 p.m. at Keystone Hospice, 8765 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Free; no need to register; light refreshments. Information: 215-836-2440.

RADON is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. That’s why the American Lung Association of Pennsylvania is offering free radon test kits. The only way to detect radon is to test for it, so long on to www.lunginfo.org to obtain a free test kit today.

SHHH, A HEARING LOSS SUPPORT GROUP, meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Jeanes Library, 4051 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hill. 215-482-7829.

THE BUSINESS CENTER AT NEW COVENANT CAMPUS offers a variety of courses in business, marketing, management and more for small businesses. 7500 Germantown Ave. Call 215-247-2473 or click www.thebizctr.com for more information.

THE WOMEN'S CLUB OF ERDENHEIM meets the first Wednesday of each month at the Oreland Presbyterian Church, Church and Paper Mill Roads, beginning at noon. Information: 215-836-1446. Guests are welcome.

THURSDAYS ARE OLDIES NIGHTS AT THE COMMODORE BARRY CLUB, Carpenter Lane and Emlen Street in West Mount Airy. In the tradition of continuing culturally diverse gatherings in Northwest Philadelphia, 2 Girls and A Guy sponsors an oldies night dance party every Thursday from 7 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $10 includes one drink and food. Information: 215-275-8577.

WALK THE WILD WISSAHICKON. The Sierra Club sponsors hikes regularly the last Saturday of each month, hiking a different trail each month. Meet at 10 a.m. at Sedgwick Gardens Apts. in Mt. Airy (McCallum and Sedgwick Sts.) Check with Sidney Goldstein for details, at 215-438-4459, or mrbasketball.net@verizon.net.

WISSAHICKON HOSPICE offers drop-in bereavement support groups for adults on the last Tuesday of each month from 1:30-3 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Hospital, Laughlin Hall, 8835 Germantown Ave. 800-700-8807.