ENTERTAINMENT

PHILLY LOVES NEW ORLEANS. Philadelphia musicians, including Byard Lancaster, Men On A mission, James Day's Fish Fry, Zydeco-A-Go-Go, Dukes Of Destiny, Zan Gardner, Philly Gumbo, Randy Lippincott Band, Tony Williams Jazz Band, Renz Steel, Harold Smith and Wild Bohemians will join together for Katrina disaster relief on Friday Sept. 23, 7 p.m.-1 a.m., at the Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St. $20 suggested donation at the door. 215-843-8051. Philadelphia PA

A SHOT IN THE DARK, a mystery-comedy by Marcel Achard, will be presented at The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave., 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.

FIRST FRIDAY IN MT. AIRY is Oct. 1 from 6-9 p.m. A monthly celebration, businesses — ranging from art galleries to restaurants to retailers — extend their hours to 9 p.m. for tours, specials and socializing. 215-844-6021 or www.mtairyfirstfriday.com.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, Sept. 23, Tea Leaf Green Calf Mountain String Band; Saturday, Sept. 24, Alana Davis; Friday, Sept. 30, Deb Callahan; Saturday, Oct. 1, Reckless Amateurs. 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.

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.

OLDIES DANCE PARTY with Lou Costello & Billy from Philly will be on Friday night, Sept. 30 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Music from the 50s, 60s and 70s at Lu Lu Shriners Great Hall, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting. 800-898-5858. $10 per person. BYOB. Ice, water, soda available. Free Parking. Line dance lessons at 8 p.m. are free. www.lulushriners.org.

KESWICK THEATRE: 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; Friday, Sept. 30, Dar Williams; Saturday, Oct. 1, Travis Tritt; Sunday, Oct. 2, Drew Carey & The Improv Allstars (pres. by Comedy Central). 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. 23, Tom Gala & the Terraplanes; Saturday, Sept. 24, The Philadelphia Bluegrass Band; Friday, Sept. 30, Zydeco A GoGo. Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill; 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

MOUNT AIRY VIOLINS & BOWS, 6665 Germantown Ave., will host some music-making during the re-enactment of the Battle of Germantown on Saturday, Oct. 1. There is a chance to play at three separate times during the day. Details: 215-438-9031.

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.

THE PHILADELPHIA RECORDER SOCIETY hold its monthly recorder playing sessions at the Settlement Music School, Germantown Branch, 6128 Germantown Ave. on Monday, Sept. 26, 6:45-9 p.m. Information: Joanne at 215-844-8054 or Dody at 215-886-2241.

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, through 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. 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: Walk- In Mosaic Art Classes are every Friday and Sunday 12-5; projects start at $10. Mosaic Table Workshop, September 24 and 25,11-4 $135 includes small table; Polymer Clay Tilemaking Workshop, October 1st, 1-4, $45 includes all materials. Northwest Artists at Work: A Philadelphia open studio tours preview opening reception is on Oct. 7, 6-9 p.m. Free. 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. 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. 215-247-5777 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

AT THE AMOEBA ART SHOP, 7174 Germantown Ave.: Modular Origami Class, Tuesday, Sept. 27, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.; Polymer Clay Techniques Course: Translucent Techniques, Tuesday, Sept. 27, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Register: 215-242-4568 or www.amoebaartshop.com.

ART WITHOUT BOUNDARIES is an exhibit showcasing sculpture, painting, collage and mixed media works by artists over 55 years of age. The exhibit, at Moore College of Art and Design, runs through Oct. 3. 215-848-7722.

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: Fall bird seed sale is Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 2, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Teacher’s workshop, “Integrated Pest Management,” will be on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m.-noon. 215-482-7300, ext. 110 or www.schuylkillcenter.org.

THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION,12 Morris Road, Ambler. 215-646-8866.

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.

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. 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.

KIDS FEST, a free health, safety and environmental awareness day, will be held from noon-3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept 24 at the office of Dr. Lenny Roberts, 8151 Ridge Ave., Roxborough. Kids Fest will provide essential information on health, child safety, and environmental awareness, as well as free chiropractic consultations, scoliosis screenings and information on disease prevention. Free Child ID cards and fingerprinting will be provided. The fire department is bringing its fire truck and will have fire safety information for children. Balloons, snacks, face painting, giveaways and prize drawing are also part of the event. 215-487-2500.

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. 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.

THE PHILADELPHIA LITTLE QUAKERS FOOTBALL TEAM will be having tryouts for the 2005 squad at the William Penn Charter School, 3000 W. School House Lane on Tuesday, Oct. 4 and Wednesday, Oct. 5 (rain or shine). A player should plan on attending both days unless notified otherwise. Tryout sessions begin at 7p.m. and registration for a player’s first night opens at 6:15 p.m. All tryouts are in full equipment; players are to bring their own. Players may not turn 15 in 2005 and the maximum weight is 150 pounds. Call Laurie at 215-836-2143 with any questions.

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

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.

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.

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY will host a program on “Philadelphia's Broad Street - South and North” on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Bethlehem Pike and East Mill Road, Flourtown. The speaker will be Robert Skaler, Commonwealth Speaker for the Pennsylvania Humanities Council. This is a program of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, supported in part by a grant from the William Penn Foundation. This presentation is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served at 7:15 and following the program. www.springfieldhistory.org.

MANAYUNK ART CENTER (MAC), 419 Green Lane (rear), will have a special poetry program, “The Jew, the Heart, & Words” featuring Amy Small-McKinney, Liz Abrams-Morley, Hanoch Guy, Shulamith Wechter Caine and Lisa Baron on Sunday, Sept. 25 from 3-5 p.m. All five poets are connected to the subject of their Jewish past and how it plays a significant part in their writing. There will also be an open reading where those interested can share pertinent poems related to the theme of the program. $4 donation requested. Refreshments will be available. 215-482-3363.

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.

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.

AARP SAFE DRIVER CLASS will be at the INTERAC Center, 6012 Ridge Ave., on Tuesday, Oct. 4 and Wednesday, Oct. 5, 1 – 5 p.m. for drivers age 55+. The session runs two afternoons. Completion entitles you to a discount on your auto insurance. The cost is $10. Lunch is available. To register, call Interac at 215-487-1750. Call soon as space is limited.

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 run throughout the fall. 215-884-8942 or www.woninstitute.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: 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 auditorium. “Hydrogen: Hope or Hype?” will be discussed on Tuesday, Sept. 27 from 6-8 p.m. RSVP: 215-299-1000 or www.acnatsci.org.

AT THE CENTRAL LIBRARY, 1901 Vine St.: “Banned Books — A Reading by Local Celebrities” will be on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. What do Little Red Riding Hood, Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men and Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings all have in common? They have all been banned at one time or another. Readers include Tony Auth, Philadelphia Inquirer editorial cartoonist; Kelli Dunham, comedian; Marty Moss-Cohane, host of WHYY’s Radio Times; and State Rep. James Roebuck. Free. 215-686-5415.

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.

AT THE BETSY ROSS HOUSE, 239 Arch Street: Meet Betsy Ross in person 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, through September. Joke & Dagger, a hilarious colonial sword fight, is staged at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Friday through Sunday, all month long. The house is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $3 for adults; $2 children 12 and under. Optional audio tour, $5. All other programs are free. Call 215-686-1252 for information.

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.

PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS COLLEGE FAIR: Aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians and writers searching for the right college fit will find the information and resources they’re looking for at the National Association for College Admission Counseling’s (NACAC) free Philadelphia Performing and Visual Arts College Fair. Saturday, Oct. 1, from 3-5 p.m. at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St. For directions and exhibitors, visit www.nacac.com/fairs.html or call 800/822-6285.

AT THE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, 204 S. Fifth St.: “Treasures Revealed: 260 Years of Collecting at the American Philosophical Society” is on display through Dec. 11, Friday –Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. In the first 50 years of the United States, the American Philosophical Society was our nation’s first national library, museum and academy of science. Like the Smithsonian now, the APS was the first repository for unique treasures that trace American history in the earliest years of our nation. Today, its collection contains more than 300,000 books, 8 million manuscripts, art works and objects. Highlights from the remarkable 260-year-old collection of art, artifacts, portraits, maps, rare books and even silhouettes are on view in the current exhibit. They illustrate not only the breadth of the society’s holdings, from early American patriots to astronauts on the moon, but APS’s particular interest in history, science, medicine and technology. 215-440-3400 or www.amphilsoc.org.

AT THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE, 222 N. 29th St.: Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, lands at the institute's Tuttleman IMAX Theater on Sept. 23. The IMAX hotline is 215-448-1111. www.fi.edu.

SOUL FOOD

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

GERMANTOWN JEWISH CENTRE SYNAPLEX SHABBAT. Once a month, GJC presents Synaplex Shabbat: just like when you choose your movie at the cineplex theater, Synaplex Shabbat offers a variety of choices for adults and children of all ages. Sept. 23 & 24: scholar in residence will be Rabbi Ira F. Stone, founder and director of the Musar Institute of Philadelphia and spiritual leader of Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel in Center City. Torah Yoga, Shabbos café, children’s activities and more. Some, but not all programs require advanced RSVP. Many programs are free of charge. Selichot services begin at 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 24. 400 W. Ellet St., Mt. Airy. 215-844-1507 ext. 19, Synaplex@germantownjewishcentre.org or www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

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.

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH OF GERMANTOWN, 6459 Germantown Ave., will host the Rev. Robin Brooker from Mt. Zion Baptist Church as part of its women of the word ministry on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m. 215-849-0257.

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.

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.

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.

ST. MARTIN’S EVENSONG SEASON BEGINS IN OCTOBER. The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000 St. Martins Lane, will hold its first Evensong Sunday of the fall on Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. The guest preacher is The Rev. Mark Ainsworth of All Hallows’ Church in Wyncote. Musical selections to be presented by the St. Martin’s Adult Choir include works by Arthur Baynon, David Hogan and H. Balfour Gardiner. 215-247-7466.

OMC CLOTHING DRIVE. The OMC Chapter of The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Philadelphia is collecting donations of clean, usable, ready-to-wear men’s, women’s and children’s clothing and shoes for the poor and needy of the Philadelphia area on Saturday, Oct. 1 & 2, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., in the church parking lot at Our Mother of Consolation Church, 9 East Chestnut Hill Ave. All donations are tax deductible and receipts will be provided. Donations of large furniture, cars, trucks, vans, boats or motorcycles should be arranged for pick-up by calling 215-288-8160.

CHORAL EVENSONG WILL BE OFFERED AT ST. PAUL'S CHURCH, 22 East Chestnut Hill Ave., Chestnut Hill, on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 5 p.m. St. Paul's choir and soloists Timothy Martin, David Baney and Janice Fiore will be under the direction of organist-choirmaster Richard Alexander. Music includes Stanford's Evening Canticles in G and Quatre Motets for choir and two organs by Marcel Dupré; Ken Lovett will play the independent Gallery Organ for these pieces, which are rarely heard owing to the requirement for organs at both ends of the church. Free. 215-242-2055 ext. 26.

SECULAR JUDAISM POTLUCK DINNER. Interested in secular Judaism? Come and find out how Shir Shalom celebrates Jewish culture and identity in a secular way throughout the year. Affiliated with the Society for Humanistic Judaism (SHJ), Shir Shalom is a congregation that welcomes multi-cultural and non-traditional families and assures availability of a Jewish secular education for grades K-12 through collaboration with the Jewish Folkshul of Philadelphia. Find out more at a potluck getting-to-know-you dinner on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m., at a private home in West Mt. Airy. RSVP: 215-248-2262 or go to www.shirshalom-phila.org.

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. You can give on Monday, Sept. 26 at St. Martin's Church, 8000 St. Martin’s Lane, from 7:30 a.m. -  7:30 p.m.  ($100 cash raffle!); on Friday, Sept. 30, from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., at Chestnut Hill Hospital, Laughlin hall, room D, 8835 Germantown Ave.; on Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at New Covenant Church, 7500 Germantown Ave. Information / scheduling: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

FREEDOM FROM SMOKING, Wednesday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m., Chestnut Hill Hospital (CHH), Laughlin hall, room K, 8835 Germantown Ave. Nicotine is a complex addiction linked to brain chemistry and behavioral, psychological and social components. Quitting is tough, but the more you try, the more likely you are to succeed. In this eight-week program, CHH health care professionals offer supportive techniques and tips to help you stop. Classes are held at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, Sept. 28, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 and Nov. 2 and 9. Special session Friday, Oct. 21. Facilitated by Rose Mueller, BSN, director, cancer program, and Debra Roberts, coordinator, prenatal education. Cost: $50. Call 215-753-2000 for information and to register.

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.

BABY MASSAGE, Thursday, Sept. 29, 10-11:30 a.m., Chestnut Hill Hospital, Laughlin hall, playroom, 8835 Germantown Ave. Learn simple, effective techniques to soothe a baby’s digestive and nervous system, ease colic and support good respiration and circulation. Bring two blankets and your baby’s favorite natural body lotion. Wear comfortable clothing. Instructor is Laila Wah, OMD, doctor of acupuncture and East Asian medicine with more than 30 years of clinical experience. Cost: $10. Call 215-753-2000 for information and to register.

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. Friday, Sept. 23, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Acme/Savon Pharmacy, 1640 Bethlehem Pike. 215-836-2440 or www.keystonecare.com.

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.

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. Women and Depression: An Educational Support Group is planned for November. Visit www.jfcsphil.org or call 215-540-3737 for more information.

FREE SUPPORTSIGHT SEMINARS — for patients with macular degeneration and their loved ones — will be on Sunday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m.-noon, at Congregation Keneseth Israel, 8339 Old York Road, Elkins Park; and from 2-4 p.m. at Montgomery County Community College, Science Center 212, 340 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell. Sponsored by The Macula Vision Research Foundation. 610-668-6705 or www.mvrf.org.

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.

MISCELLANEOUS

BE THERE! The Black & White Gala will take place on the 8500 block of Germantown Ave. on Saturday, Sept. 24. Reservations: 215-248-8810.

FALL WALK: The Liberty Bell Wanderers and the Girl Scouts will be hosting a fall walk through Chestnut Hill on Saturday, Oct. 1. The walk will start and end at the Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 W. Willow Grove Ave. Start times: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finish by 5 p.m. Walk is free or $3 for AVA – IVV credit. Walk distance, 5K and 10K. For information, contact Bill at 215-646-4799; Girl Scouts coordinators Carol at 215-884-3334; or Maureen at 215-884-2420.

CREATING SAFE CORRIDORS AROUND OUR CHILDREN will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at Emlen Elementary School, Chew Avenue and Upsal Street, at 7 p.m. This event will feature Rev. Leroi Simmons, organizer of the Peace Patrol, a Germantown-based grassroots organization formed to secure the corridors around Germantown High School. Sponsored by The Mt. Airy Safety Network. 215-438-6022.

“MAKE AN IMPRESSION,” a masked ball celebrating the impressionist palette, will be on Saturday, Oct. 1, 7 – 11 p.m. at Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Ave. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

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.

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: Tuesday, Sept. 27 at noon, free blood pressure screenings and "brown bag" lunch; at 1 p.m., "What's new (or old?) at the Chestnut Hill Historical Society?" Center members and the public are invited. Refreshments available. Great Books & Authors, Italian classes have returned to Monday mornings; beginning Spanish classes start Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. 215-248-0180.

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.

CRAFT FAIR AND FLEA MARKET to benefit Regina Coeli Academy, 1108 E. Willow Grove Ave., Wyndmoor, will be on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 8 a.m. – noon. There will be crafts, artwork and baked goods, as well as new or gently used furniture, computer equipment, china, kitchen items, baby items, books and new clothing and more. Information: Roseanita Jepson at 215-836-2208 or Mary Wurtz at 215-658-1718.

ROXBOROUGH YMCA GOLF TOURNAMENT is on Monday, Oct. 3, at the Green Valley Country Club in Lafayette Hill. The “four person scramble” tournament will begin with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Participants will enjoy lunch, course refreshments, a cocktail hour with hors d’ouevres, dinner, a souvenir gift, team photo and auction. To sponsor the tournament or to register to play, contact Shannon Kimball at 215-482-3900 or skimball@philaymca.org.

YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE GUTS 5KRUN/5K WALK to benefit the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America will be on Saturday, Oct. 1 along Martin Luther King Drive. 215-396-9100.

AMERICA’S WALK FOR DIABETES will be at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park on Sunday, Oct. 2. 1-888-DIABETES or www.diabetes.org/walk.

HELPING HANDS NIGHT AT THE TROLLEY CAR DINER, 7619 Germantown Ave., will benefit the Reform Lutheran Church on Monday, Sept. 26 and Northwest Hospitality Network on Wednesday, Sept. 28. Fifteen percent of the revenue from diners mentioning their special cause will be donated. 215-842-4800, ext. 221 or www.trolleycardiner.com.

RECYCLING of all kinds of paper, #1 and #2 plastic laundry and beverage bottles only (without caps) and clothing takes place the first Saturday of each month — Oct. 1 — at the Wyndmoor Train station from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Money raised benefits the Chestnut Hill Community Fund. 215-248-8810.

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.

THE SINGLES SCENE — a program of dancing and discussion for mature adults — is having a Teacher’s Night Out on Saturday, Sept. 24 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.