This Week

ALLENS LANE ART CENTER, Allens Lane & McCallum St.: Shadow of a Gunman by Sean O'Casy. Through Dec. 4. Fridays & Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 6 p.m. Tickets $15. 215-248-0546 or http://www.allenslane.org.

CHELTENHAM ART CENTER: Classes begin Monday, Nov. 28. Art and drama classes for children and adults, watercolor, evening oil painting, open figure studio, surface treatments in clay, tile making, stained glass and alternative firing and glazing. New children’s classes include drawing and illustration, teen studio, Saturday introduction to ceramics, and tactile toddlers, a pre-school class. http://www.cheltenhamarts.org or 215-379-4660.

CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER: On-going show of paintings by the Center's art workshop instructor and students. Framed prints for sale. Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. 7999 Crittenden Street. 215-248-0180.

GALLERY ST. MARTIN: 7811 St. Martin's Lane. Closed for Thanksgiving weekend. http://www.GallerySaintMartin.com. 215-247-7811.

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 for children, teens and adults. 215-247-5089.

JMS GALLERY: 8236 Germantown Ave. Wednesday-Friday, 1- 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, noon-6 p.m.; Sunday noon-4 p.m. and by appointment. http://www.jmsgallery.com.

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

“PLANTS FOR ALL REASONS”: Flower and landscape paintings from the studio class of Phoebe Shish, 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 http://www.morrisarboretum.org.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY: 6780 Germantown Ave. Walk-in mosaic art classes every Friday and Sunday 12-5 p.m. Projects start at $10. Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m. Holiday craft show and gift wrapping party. Refreshments and craft activities for the kids. Featured artist, Jennifer Schultz. 6780 Germantown Ave. 215-848-2110. http://www.bellamosaic.com215-848-2110 or classes@bellamosaic.com.

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

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER: 100 Cedar Grove Road, Registration is underway for January adult and children classes. 610-825-0917.

***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, through Jan. 8; The Ella May Fell Collection, through Jan. 8. 215-247-0476, or http://www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

BRAIN FOOD

ADOPTION PANEL DISCUSSION: Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7-9 p.m. presented by PERL, Inc.; Dec. 3 meeting of Friends. 1-3 p.m. Book Sale. At Lovett Public Library, Sedgwick and Germantown Ave. 215-685-2095

MINDALERT: Professional development workshop for instructors on Tuesday, Dec. 6, at the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park, by Ruth Flexman, PhD. Presented by the Phila. Assoc. of Senior Service Administrators. 215-487-1750. Nov. 23 registration deadline. Fee.

SCIENTIFIC WORK OF BEN FRANKLIN: By Richard L. Rosen on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Springfield, Bethlehem Pike and East Mill Rd., Flourtown. Free and open to the public. Light refreshments. http://www.springfieldhistory.org, or 215-233-4600.

CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER: New writing class beginning Dec. 1. 215-248-0180 for information or to register. Both classes meet at the Center, 7999 Crittenden St.

ESL CLASSES: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. Won Community Service Center, 423 Abington Ave., Glenside. 215-884-8443. Free with $25 reg. and purchase of book. 215-884-8942 or http://www.woninstitute.org.

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.

PARENT/CHILD GROUP AND PARENTING SEMINARS: 15 biweekly sessions (except holidays) on Thursdays through June 15 from 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. for 10 parents, and their children from birth to thirty months. The Family & Play Therapy Center, two blocks from Lincoln Drive, near the Carpenter Lane Train Station. Kristin Walker or Laura Bishop at 215-844-4321.

SATURDAY SERVICE BEGINS AT THE FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA: The following branches are now open from 1 – 5 p.m. on Saturdays: Chestnut Hill Branch, 8711 Germantown Ave.; Falls of Schuylkill Branch, 3501 Midvale Ave. Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional, 68 W. Chelten Ave., will be open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and 1–5 p.m. on Sunday. 215-686-5322 or http://www.library.phila.gov.

THE WON INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES: 137. S. Easton Road, Glenside, offers “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.

ENTERTAINMENT

BACH'S CELLO SUITES: By Israeli Cult artist Matt Haimovitz at the Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Ave. on Saturday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m. $15 at 215-247-BACH or http://www.Bach-Fest.org.

CHESTNUT HILL FILM GROUP: Tuesday Nights at the Movies, at the Chestnut Hill branch of the Free Library, 8711 Germantown Ave. Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m. Spellbound (1945 / 111 minutes / B&W).

DONETSK BALLET OF UKRAINE: Highlights from Don Quixote at Northeast High School, Cottman and Algon Streets, on Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. in cooperation with the International Ballet Exchange. Free. Saturday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Nutcracker at Springfield High School, Paper Mill Road at Rte. 309.

HOLIDAY TEA AND SYMPHONY: On Sunday, Dec. 4, 2-4 p.m.18 century music on harpsichord and recorder as it would have been performed at The Highlands two hundred years ago. Estate teas at intermission. The Highlands, 7001 Sheaff Lane Ft. Washington. 215-641-2687.

KESWICK THEATRE: Friday, Nov. 25, The Machine; Saturday, Nov. 26, Rockapella Holiday Show; Sunday, Nov 27, Memories Of Ireland Holiday Show; Thursday, Dec. 1, Peter White Christmas tour; Saturday, Dec. 3, Judy Collins, Friday, Dec. 16, Saturday, Dec. 17, Sunday, Dec. 18, Nutcracker. Times and ticket prices vary. Keswick Ave. and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or http://www.keswicktheatre.com.

MERMAID INN: Friday, Nov. 25, Something Black; Saturday, Nov. 26 Psych-a-billy; Monday, Nov. 28, Charlie Miller; Friday Dec. 2, Zydeco-A-Go-Go. Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road. 215-247-9797 or http://www.themermaidinn.net.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, Nov. 25, DJ Gary O; Saturday, Nov. 26, Blue Method/Fatdaddyhasbeen; Sunday, Nov. 29, Adydos Couture Fashion Show/ The Tramps; Friday, Nov. 2, Bettye Lavette. Times and cover charges vary. Singer/songwriter night is the second Tuesday at 8 p.m. Salsa on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. 7105 Germantown Ave. http://www.nxnwphl.com or 215-248-1000.

PHILLY SWINGS: Swing dancing on Saturdays at the Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St. 610-676-0123 or http://www.swingdance.org.

PROOF: Presented by the Drama Group. Fridays & Saturdays, Nov. 25-26 at 8 p.m. FUMCOG, 6023 Germantown Ave. $10. 215-844-0724. http://www.thedramagroup.org.

ROXBOROUGH ORCHESTRA: Roxborough Presbyterian Church, 8230 Ridge Ave. 8 p.m. Dec. 3. Free. 215-487-3008.

STAGECRAFTERS THEATER: 8130 Germantown Ave., Coyote on a Fence, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 25-26. Times vary. $15; Thursday 2-for-1; students with ID $12. Mature audiences. 215-247-8881 or http://www.thestagecrafters.org.

FOR THE KIDS

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

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

GERMANTOWN BEACON CENTER: Free after school and weekend programs including sports, dance, tutoring, driver’s ed. SAT prep, and more. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Haines, between Baynton and Germantown Ave. 215-951-4519; 215-951-4537 or jweems@edeucationWorks-Online.org.

MAKIN’ MUSIC: An interactive music program for preschoolers and their caregivers takes place on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 9:15 a.m. or 10:15 a.m. 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: Every Saturday, from 9 to noon for ages six to 10 at Amoeba Art Shop Annex, 7174 Germantown Ave. Cost per session: $12.50 per hour. Monday, Nov. 28 7-9:30 p.m. “Poetry: Truth & Beauty, Love & Loss.” Poets with all levels of writing experience to come together with open 'beginner's mind' to make poems. $30 per session. Friday, Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m. First Friday opening reception for Mt. Airy artist Debs Bleicher. http://www.amoebaartshop.com/classes.php or 215-242-4568.

SCHOLARSHIPS: Beneficial Bank to award 50, $3000 scholarships to high school seniors. Dec. 1 deadline. Entry form at a Beneficial office or beneficialsavings.com.

SCHOLARSHIP: Concerned Black Men to award 10 –20 scholarships to African-American high school students. Nov. 26 deadline. 215-849-6426 or 215-276-2260.

WATER TOWER CHILDREN’S CLASSES: Karate for children & adults; Tony's little dribblers; Pick up basketball; Jazzy lady social grace & etiquette; Dance classes with Miss Sara; Tot recreation class; Gymnastics classes. Hartwell Lane & Ardleigh Street. Times, days, ages vary. 215-685-9296.

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Ave. and Cherokee St., has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 to10:30 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.

YOUTH DANCE AND ACTING CLASSES: Forming now at HATCH Dance Theater for ages three and up. Ask about our Big & Little Class for two year olds with their favorite grownup. 215-416-0457. Above O'Doodle's Toy Store at 8333 Germantown Ave.

HEALTH FOOD

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 to 7 p.m.; and at Homelink (Adult Day Center), 6950 Germantown Ave., on the third Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. 800-272-3900.

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 http://www.pleasegiveblood.org.

FOX CHASE CANCER MOBILE MAMMOGRAPHY VAN: Tuesday, Nov. 29 at the Germantown Mature Older Adult Center, 324 E. High Street. Women who are 60 years or older with or without health insurance are eligible. 215-214-1682.

FREE LUPUS SELF-HELP COURSES: The Lupus Foundation of America, Southeastern PA Chapter, is offering a series of free self-help courses for people with lupus. This seven-week program and is designed to teach people with lupus how to take a more active part in their health care and live better with this chronic disease. Topics include basic medical information about lupus, medications and treatments, exercise, doctor-patient communication, fatigue management and relaxation and stress management techniques. All course leaders are women who either have been diagnosed with lupus or have loved ones with lupus. The next session of courses will be starting shortly. For information, call 215-517-5070 or go to http://www.lupus-sepa.org.

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. http://www.jfcsphil.org or 215-540-3737.

WATER TOWER: Aerobics for Adults. Mondays & Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays at 8:15 a.m. Hartwell Lane & Ardleigh Street. 215-685-9296.

NATURE

THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: “Geology of the Wissahickon” by Sarah West on Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bring a bag lunch. $20. 215-482-7300, ext. 110.

**THE MORRIS ARBORETUM: 100 Northwestern Ave. “Creating a Pond and Meadow on a Budget.” Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10:30 a.m.-noon. $22,members; $24, non-members. 215-247-5777 ext. 125. Holiday Garden Railway Display Nov. 25-Dec. 31 daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free with regular garden admission; $10 adults; $8 for seniors, students and youth (13-18) $5, children under age three and members free. (215) 247-5777. http://www.morrisarboretum.org.

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY: 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. 215-988-8869 or http://www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org.

WYNCOTE AUDUBON SOCIETY: Fall Slide Contest on Friday, Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room of Cathedral Village, 600 E. Cathedral Rd. Categories are: Nature; Landscape/Seascapes and General (submit up to 4 slides in each category).215-887-5446. Saturday, Dec. 4 trip to the Barnegat Light & Edwin Forsythe NWR Brigantine, NJ. 9 a.m. at Barnegat Light parking lot. Bring lunch & scope. Rick White at 215-483 9321.

SOUL FOOD

The Cecilian Center For Earth, Arts And Spirit: 100 W. Carpenter Lane, 215-849-3364. A full roster of courses for the fall at their location and at the Mt. Airy Learning Tree. 215-894-3364 or ceciliancenter@yahoo.com.

THE CHURCH OF ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS: Four-week Sunday Forum series continuing on Nov. 27 at 10 a.m. in the parish hall. “How we read the Bible today” explores what it means to read and interpret the Bible in the face of today’s social issues. Free and open to the public. 8000 St. Martins Lane, on the corner of St Martins Lane and Willow Grove Ave. 215-247-7466.

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

GERMANTOWN JEWISH CENTRE SYNAPLEX SHABBAT: GJC presents monthly Synaplex Shabbat. Programs for adults and children of all ages. Some programs require advanced RSVP; many are free. 400 W. Ellet St.215-844-1507 ext. 19, Synaplex@germantownjewishcentre.org or http://www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

CHABAD-LUBAVITCH OF NORTHWEST PHILADELPHIA: Men, Women, & Kabbalah: Mondays, Nov. 28. 6-7:15 p.m. No previous knowledge of Kabbalah or hebrew necessary. Moving Arts Studio, 6819 Greene St. $5 per class; $12 series. RSVP; Ima & Me: Wednesdays in Nov., 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Jewish mothers and children (up to age 2.5) explore their Jewish heritage, 7009 McCallum St.#A. Free. RSVP; Mondays in Nov., 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Jewish Story Hour: Children ages 3 to 6, 7009 McCallum St. #A. Free. RSVP: http://www.ChabadNWP.org or 215-438-5327.

INTERMEZZO CHOIR MINISTRY: Saturday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. Musical service directed by Dr. Nix, to dedicate Echoes. Nazarene Baptist Church, 3975 Germantown Ave. Free will offering. 215-248-2728. or http://www.ipaam.net.

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

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 http://www.PVCCHURCH.com.

SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY: The center is at 9701 Germantown Ave. 215-248-7222. s

SUPPORT GROUP FOR WIDOWS & WIDOWERS: Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. at Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave. 215-624-8190.

THE CHURCH OF ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS: 8000 St. Martins Lane, on the corner of St. Martins Lane and Willow Grove Avenue. Monthly series of conversations on bioethical questions on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in Hilary House, located next-door to the church at 8020 St. Martins Lane. Free and open to the public. Not necessary to attend every session. Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb. and April. 215-247-7466.

THE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF THE RESTORATION: Thursday morning writing circles at 9:30 a.m.; yoga on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. 6900 Stenton Ave. 215-247-2561.

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN: Coffee and Conversation on Sundays. Nov. 27, “Open Space”. 9:30 a.m. Weekend retreats, presentations and spiritual workshops throughout the year. 6511 Lincoln Drive. 215-844-1157.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

ANNA CRUSIS WOMEN’S CHOIR: Winter concert “..And all the earth shall sing…” on Dec. 2,3,4 at Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church, 8812 Germantown Ave. Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. 215-864-5991. Babysitting.

BOW-MAKING WORKSHOPS: At the Wissahickon Environmental Center, Northwestern Ave. and Forbidden Drive in Fairmount Park, Nov. 29 & 30, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Free. Refreshments and a light lunch of soup and fresh bread. 215 685-9285.

CRAFT MARKET 2005: Whitemarsh Community Art Center In the Barn at Cedar Grove Park, Spring Mill & Cedar Grove Roads, Conshohocken, Friday & Saturday, Dec. 2 & 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 11a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Preview party, Thursday, Dec. 1, 6-9 p.m. $5; members free. Refreshments available.

“EBENEZER’S CHRISTMAS”: Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. Dinner at the Cresheim Cottage Café at 7402 Germantown Ave. Silent auction at Maxwell Mansion, 200 W. Tulpehocken Street, with dessert, coffee and liqueurs at 8 p.m. Sponsored by Maxwell Mansion and the Preservation Alliance. Entire evening: $125/couple; $75/person; silent auction only,$25/person. RSVP. 215-438-1861 or

http://www.preservationalliance.com.

FAIRMOUNT PARK HOUSE TOURS: 1-4 p.m. Dec. 1-11. $20,adults; $13 members, seniors,children. Tours depart from Phila. Museum of Art and Ind. Visitors Center. 215-925-8687 or http://www.philamuseum.org/collections/parkhouse.

HANDEL MESSIAH: Sunday, Nov. 27, 3 p.m. The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, The Germantown Oratorio Choir, Keystone State Boychoir, at First Presbyterian Church In Germantown. Christmas Dinner 5:15 p.m. 35 W. Chelten Ave. Freewill offering. 215-843-8811 or http://www.fpcgermantown.org.

HISTORIC GERMANTOWN PRESERVED HISTORIC HOUSE EVENTS: Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, 200 W. Tulpehocken St. Open House. 1-4 p.m., Dec. 3 & 4. Free; Johnson House Historic Site, 6306 Germantown Ave. Winter Quilting Bee Dec. 3, 1-4 p.m. $5; Wyck, 6026 Germantown Ave. Noon to 4 p.m. on Dec. 3, tours and "What's For Dinner" exhibit; The Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave. on Market Square, Victorian parlor decorated for Christmas. 1 to 5 p.m., Dec. 4; Historic RittenhouseTown, Wissahickon Ave. between Lincoln Drive & Walnut Lane. 215-843-2228. Christmas Tours, Dec. 3 and 4, noon-4 p.m. $5 adult; $3 children & seniors. Dec. 4 Japanese Gift Wrapping, Fundraiser for the Barn Papermaking Studio, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $60; Awbury Arboretum Entrance on Chew Ave. between Washington Lane and Haines St.; Centerpiece & Wreath-Making Workshops. Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. $25; Awbury members, $15 per workshop. 215-849-2855, ext. 15, for reservation. Deshler-Morris House, 5442 Germantown Ave. Holidays in 18th Century Germantown, Dec. 9- 11 noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. lecture,“Holiday Traditions in the 18th Century.” Reservations recommended; Grumblethorpe, 5267 Germantown Ave. 215-925-2251. Dec. 3 & 4 1-4 p.m. Scale models of colonial buildings and seasonal ornaments made by children and seasonal stories at 1:30 & 3:30 p.m. $5.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE: Sponsored by the Women’s Committee of Children’s Hopsital. Preview Thursday, Dec. 1, 5-9 p.m.; Shopping Friday, Dec. 2 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with lunch from noon to 2 p.m. at the Merion Cricket Club, Haverford. 267-426-6489.

HOPE LODGE: Holiday tours Friday, Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 3-4, 1-4 p.m. $5 adults; $4 seniors; free members & children. 553 S. Bethlehem Pike. 215-646-1595 or http://www. Ushistory.org/hope.

MEMORIAL TREE: Place an ornament on memorial tree. George Washington Memorial Park, 80 Stenton Ave. Saturdays, Nov. 26 & Dec. 31. Kirk and Nice, 80 Stenton Ave. & Butler Pike. Saturday, Dec. 5.

O MAGNUM MYSTERIUM, MUSICA: Pre-Christmas concert by Lucida Chamber Choir on Friday, Dec 2. 7 p.m. at St. Luke's Church, Germantown, 5421 Germantown Ave. $8; $5 for students & seniors. Free parking. 215-844-9410. stedmonds@hotmail.com or (610) 520-2422.

The PAPER CRANE STUDIO: Open house and craft sale on Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. at FUMCOG, 6023 Germantown Ave. 215-844-2944 or info@papercranestudio.com.

HOLIDAY YOUTH LITERACY EVENT & SANTA: Win tickets for books at the Roxborough YMCA 7201 Ridge Ave. Sponsored by the Junior League. For children 3 to 12. Saturday, Dec. 3 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa & Mrs. Claus noon–2 p.m.

SANTA CLAUS IN THE HOLLY TROLLEY: Noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 25. Kids to ride the trolley and share their Christmas wishes with Santa Claus.

SAND CASTLES: Open every weekend, Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the holidays. Personalized items, printed invitations, wedding & party favors. Next to Bruno’s Restaurant, Germantown and Northwestern Avenues. 215-233-9257.

SUNDAYS ON THE HILL: Every Sunday in Dec. Music, children’s activities, and shopping. Santa will be riding our shopper’s trolley.

WISSAHICKON HOSPICE TREE LIGHTING: Dec. 4 at 4 p.m. Music, refreshments. Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Ave.

TOURS/TRIPS

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.

LAUREL HILL CEMETERY: 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. $15 3822 Ridge Ave. Reservations: 215-228-8200.

SHAPING FRANKLIN: A tour and special exhibit at Stenton, 4601 N. 18th St., highlighting young Benjamin Franklin’s friendship with his mentor, James Logan. That friendship, between two colonial Philadelphians of very different generations, was built around books, science, ideas and the quest for knowledge – shaping a man who would change America forever: Benjamin Franklin. The exhibit will run through Dec. 15. Tour hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. and other times by appointment. 215-329-7312, http://www.stenton.org or http://www.gophila.com/ben.

MISCELLANEOUS:

APPALACHIAN CLOGGING CLASSES: 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 email info@fiddlekicks.com.

CHESTNUT HILL PEACE VIGIL: Wednesdays, until further notice, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in front of Border’s, Germantown Ave. and Bethlehem Pike.

CONTRA DANCING: Third Saturday, Sept.- May, 8 to 11 p.m., at Glenside Memorial Hall, Keswick Ave. and Waverly St., Glenside. Live music, with a different band each week. Admission. 215-643-4397 or _ HYPERLINK "http://http://www.thursdaycontra.com" __http://www.thursdaycontra.com_.

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

THE CENTER IN THE PARK: 5818 Germantown Ave. Tuesdays, 9–10:30 a.m. Monette Sudler-Honesty teaches songwriting. 215-848-7722 or http://www.centerinthepark.org.

WALK PHILADELPHIA: Dozens of guided architecture tours of the city and region. 215-625-9255 or http://www.walkphiladelphia.com.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS: Summit Presbyterian Church (basement). Green and Westview Streets with Maurice Edwards on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Live drums. $15. 215-849-1484.

***Member of the Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

SAVE THE DATE!

Chestnut Hill Historical Society Preservation Potpourri: Dec. 3

CHCA Holiday House Tour: Dec. 3

***Member of the Chestnut Hill Cultural

VOLUNTEER:

Holiday Gift Wrapping: Thursday, Dec. 1 through Saturday, Dec. 24 at Gallery East to support Dignity Housing. Wrapping workshop on Monday, Nov. 21. 215-242-3140.

• Ribbid! The Academy of Natural Sciences is seeking volunteer exhibit guides for “FROGS — A Chorus of Colors” (opening November 2005). For information and an application, contact Lois Kuter, volunteer coordinator, 215-299-1029 or kuter@acnatsci.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.

•Glen Foerd On The Delaware: Guides needed. 215-632-5330.

• 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 _ HYPERLINK "mailto:rsvp@pcaphl.org" __rsvp@pcaphl.org_; or visit http://www.seniorcorps.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 http://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 http://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. 215-728-2560 or 215-728-2595.

• 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 http://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 http://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 http://www.fi.edu.

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

• The Arts & Business Council Of Greater Philadelphia is seeking business professionals to volunteer for the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program. 215-790-3620 or http://www.artsandbusiness-phila.org.

• Girl Scouts of Southeastern PA is currently looking for adults to volunteer in a variety of capacities. To volunteer, call 215-564-2030, ext. 226 or go online at _HYPERLINK "http://http://www.gssp.org"__http://www.gssp.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 http://www.aaa.com/prescriptions and follow the instructions. For a listing of participating pharmacies and more details about this program, visit http://www.aaa.com/prescriptions or call toll-free 866-222-7283.

BEGINNER GYROKINESIS CLASS (therapeutic movement system for the spine) taught by Joe Tighe, physical therapist, every Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. at his studio, The Balance Point, 400 W. Hortter St. Jessica Krow teaches every Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. First class free. 215-844-7773.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., continue on Oct. 4 & 18 from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

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.

CHESTNUT HILL HOSPITAL offers a great variety of programs and support groups, plus exercise programs for all ages and physical conditions (including yoga, Feldenkrais and awareness through movement), cardiac rehabilitation, women’s health issues, smoking cessation programs, CPR, a senior activity and functional evaluation (SAFE) program, a variety of clinical trials, a driver screening course, wound care program, diabetes education and support center, a geriatric resource center, drop-in parenting discussion and child play group, a prosthetic and orthotic program, wheelchair program, prenatal/postpartum yoga classes, cancer support groups, breastfeeding classes, stroke club, babysitter training and more. 215-753-2000 or http://www.chh.org.

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 http://www.philadelphia-speed-dating.com for all the details.

DIVORCED? SEPARATED? WORRIED ABOUT YOUR KIDS? Anita Goldenberg, MSS, LSW, certified in marriage and family therapy, of the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space is offering a weekly workshop to help children in families of divorced or separated parents. Workshops are held on Tuesday evenings from 6 – 8 p.m. at 7149 Germantown Ave. Cost: $120 for 6-week session. To register, call Anita Goldenberg at 215-247-2483.

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.

FUN RUN. Wissahickon Wanderers Running Club meets every Saturday at 8 a.m.; start at Valley Green. Details: 215-849-9080 or http://www.wanderersrunningclub.org.

GENTLE MEDITATIVE YOGA CLASS at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration, 6900 Stenton Ave., will take place on Tuesdays, 8 – 9:30 a.m. A yoga mat and loose clothing are recommended; voluntary contribution accepted. To reserve a place, call Jane Hulting, 215-782-1919. Also offered is sitting meditation on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m., for 20 minutes and a creative writing circle on Thursdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Full info: 215-247-2561 or _ HYPERLINK "mailto:office@uurestoration.us" __office@uurestoration.us_.

GOOD SHEPHERD OFFERS A VARIETY OF MEDIATION PROGRAMS throughout the year, including basic mediator training, 2005 volunteer gatherings, conflict coaching, divorce & custody mediation, victim offender conferencing training, mediating disability — related disputes and representing your client in mediation. For information about registration and fees, call 215-843-5413. The Mediation Center is located at 5356 Chew Ave., Germantown.

HALF-PRICE TICKETS to cultural events in the area are at http://www.phillyfunguide.com/funsavers.

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

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.

KEYSTONE HOSPICE OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS throughout the month, with specialty groups for children, widowers, young widows, and a new “motherless daughters” group. Most are free, lunch is often included, but pre-registration is requested: 215-836-2440. 8765 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor.

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 http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov to read or print out the guide or hundreds of other FCIC publications for free.

NEW CHESTNUT HILL/MT. AIRY INFANT PLAYGROUP. Do you have an infant born between March and July 2005 as well as an older child or children, and live in Mt. Airy or Chestnut Hill? New playgroup for babies (and caregivers) who have older siblings will be on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.; rotating hosts. Call Jessica at 215-849-3939 or e-mail jessica_b_taylor@alumni.temple.edu.

NEW SELF HELP COURSE REACHES OUT TO THOSE WITH LUPUS: free sessions give tips to keep quality lifestyle everyday. The Lupus Foundation of America, Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, has launched a self-help course for people with lupus. This seven-week program is free of charge and is designed to teach people with lupus how to take a more active part in their health care and live better with this chronic disease. Enrollment is now underway for spring courses which will take place at four area locations. Each weekly session is facilitated by a team of trained volunteers and will include topics such as basic medical information about lupus, medications and treatments, exercise, doctor-patient communication, fatigue management and relaxation and stress management techniques. Pre-registration is required. Programs will be held in the spring and fall. 215-517-5070 or http://www.lupus-sepa.org.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS conducts two meetings each week at Roxborough Memorial Hospital, 5800 Ridge Avenue. Details: 215-248-4333.

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 _ HYPERLINK "http://http://www.lunginfo.org" __http://www.lunginfo.org_ to obtain a free test kit today.

RELAX INTO NOW MEDITATION teleclass with Linda Durand every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. Join this group call and experience "yoga on the phone" without leaving home! 215-242-0604 or http://www.RelaxIntoNow.com.

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.

STAY IN SHAPE. For many kinds of movement, mind-body and dance classes for you and your kids, ongoing and drop-in, look to the Moving Arts Studio, off Lincoln Drive. 215 842-1040.

STRENGTH AND AEROBIC INTERVAL TRAINING is offered on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m. at Wallace and Glick Physical Therapy and Fitness, 813 Bethlehem Pike. $. 215-233-9677. Donna Storm and Drew Wallace will lead the training.

THE ARTS & BUSINESS COUNCIL OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA is seeking business professionals to volunteer for the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program. 215-790-3621 or http://www.artsandbusiness-phila.org.

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 http://www.thebizctr.com for more information.

THE MATERNAL WELLNESS CENTER is at 7149 Germantown Avenue, in the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space. They provide individual and couples psychotherapy as well as holistic birth education and a number of other supportive groups and services for women and families. 215-242-1815.

THE MT. AIRY COMPUTER CENTER, 6335 Wayne Ave., offers classes for kids and adults throughout the week. Call 215-438-8505 for a complete schedule.

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers a variety of fitness classes for children, teens and adults throughout the year. 215-482-3900.

THE WELLNESS COMMUNITY sponsors many programs and support groups for people with cancer. 215-879-7733 or http://www.twcp.org.

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.

WYCK-STRICKLAND AWARD BENEFIT DINNER: To benefit Wyck and honor Ted and Stevie Wolf. Thursday, Nov. 10 at The Down Town Club in Philadelphia. 215 848-1690 or e-mail at wyck@wyck.org.

YOGA / TAI CHI / QIGONG classes are offered throughout the week at The Second Wind Center, 98 Bethlehem Pike. Information: 215-248-9642.

USEFUL WEB SITES

• Free credit reports now available for Pennsylvania residents. Individuals may obtain a free credit report from Experian, Equifax or Transunion once a year by going to http://www.annualcreditreport.com.

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

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

• A cultural access guide for people with disabilities is at http://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 http://www.nocallsplease.com.

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

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

• Learn about lupus at http://www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Philadelphia Alliance for Better Child Care (ABC) marked the debut of a Web site — http://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 http://www.financialassistancenetwork.org for a free download about reducing your drug costs.

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

• The Clean Air Council’s “Green Guide” is at http://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: http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov.

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

• The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has launched its e-commerce site, http://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 http://www.utilitychoice.org to learn how to make informed decisions.

• The U.S. government's official Web portal is http://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 http://www.petfinder.com.

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

• Traveling? http://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 http://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 http://www.cpsc.gov.

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

• http://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.

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

• http://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.

• http://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).

• http://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!

• http://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 http://www.chestnuthillpa.com or http://www.chestnuthill.org.