March 27, 2008 Issue                                       

©2007 The Chestnut Hill Local

Local News

Primary debate comes to Hill
by PETE MAZZACCARO

Residents of Northwest Philadelphia will have an opportunity to discuss the Democratic presidential primary contest at a town hall meeting on Tuesday, April 1, sponsored by the Ninth Ward Democratic Committee.

Sidewalk signs, seating reviewed
by KRISTIN PAZULSKI

Businesses along Germantown Avenue should think twice before setting out sidewalk signs, merchandise or tables and chairs, since most of them are illegal under city regulations.

Jonathan Best: An emporium for the gourmet cook and diner
by Kristin Pazulski

The eclectic selection of snacks, garnishes and more at Jonathan Best, in the Chestnut Hill Farmers Market, may be introduced to the Reading Terminal Market. (Photo be Erin Vertreace)

When you are talking with Dave Schieber, owner of Jonathan Best in the Chestnut Hill Farmer’s Market, among the shelves of eclectic gourmet snacks, sauces and other foods in his store, it is evident that he loves not only his business and you for visiting it, but also the city in which he works, lives and plays.

“I love everything about Philadelphia,” he said, repeatedly, during two interviews he had with the Local.

So it is fitting that he was invited to bring his eclectic gourmet shop to a part of the city that has become a staple for residents and visitors alike — the Reading Terminal Market.

Sharkey steps down as community manager
by Kristin Pazulski

Community Manager Martha Sharkey leaves this week. (Photo  by Jimmy J. Pack Jr. )

For nearly a year, Martha Sharkey, community manager of the Chestnut Hill Community Association, has been a constant presence in meetings, events and other activities in Chestnut Hill. But as of March 26, the association will have to find a new energetic person to fill its community manager position, as Sharkey moves on to a new opportunity.

Sharkey chose not to reveal details about her new position, but said that she will be “working on events” for a nonprofit in Center City.

She said when she became CHCA community manager last May she had planned to stay with the association for a while, but the new position was too good to pass up.

“It was a tough decision,” she said on Monday, sitting in her bare office, newly cleaned out for the move. “But it is a good time in my life to take this new opportunity.”

Sharkey, who formerly worked for civic organizations in the Lancaster area, moved to Chestnut Hill last May when she took the community manager job. She said that in the past year, she feels she, with the help of the staff, board and dedicated volunteers, has improved the image of the CHCA, which has a reputation for controversy.