SW Senior Center Impacts of Litter in Our Face Masks Against Councilman Johnson

Continues to Help Seniors Waterways COVID-19 and Community

Leaders Decry Looting
The Southwest Senior Center Have you ever wondered how Uncomfortable? Yes, but they
closed in the middle litter save lives! Woodland plaza is wrecked!

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SOUTHWEST CDC JUNE 5, 2020

GLOBE TIMES
OPINION
Housing Trust Fund
BRINGING GOOD NEWS TO THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1945

PAGE 2
COMMUNITY
Community Landcare Project
PAGE 6
Covid-19 Transmission Dangers
Continue
PAGE 9
Exemplary programming for
extraordinary times
PAGE 10

COMING UP &
BULLETIN BOARD
PAGE 12 &13

The Southwest Globe Times supports the people protesting for

Black lives, equality, and justice.
Protests in all 50 states have forced changes all across the United States. Officials have charged all four officers in
the murder of George Floyd. Breonna Taylor’s death is being reexamined. Even in our own city, the controversial
Frank Rizzo statue has been removed from a prominent place in Center City. The large scale outcry from voices
across the nation are forcing discussions about how rigged the systems are to hurt minorities and benefit whites.
It’s also forcing discussions on race relations and encouraging whites to be anti-racist not just being not racist.

We are hopeful that these changes will lead to new attitudes and policies, and a more equitable society.
2 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
Dear Councilmembers,
S
outhwest CDC is a one of 60
members of the Philadelphia
Coalition for Affordable Commu-
nities (PCAC). We oppose the Mayor’s
proposed cuts to the Housing Trust
Fund in the FY2021 budget, as we
know many of you do. At a time when
staying housed is a matter of life and
death, funding for the Housing Trust
Fund is an essential part of our re-
covery from COVID-19. Philly needs
homes, to stay home!
Funding for affordable, accessible
housing is important to the residents
OPINION
Housing Trust Fund
of Southwest Philadelphia. Philadel-
phians are already dying of COVID-19
because they don’t have access to
affordable, accessible housing and they
are stuck in some of the most dan-
gerous places in the city like nursing
homes and shelters. Before the pan-
demic more than half of all city renters
and almost one of every three home-
owners were cost burdened, meaning
that after paying their housing costs
there was not enough left to cover
other basic needs. Now due to the virus
even more Philadelphians are strug-
gling to pay their rent or mortgage.
The Mayor’s proposed cuts will
make a terrible situation even worse.
As an example:
•$3,500,000 cut in funding for the
development of new rental homes
will mean that 100 families will not
receive affordable homes in Phila-
delphia.
•$18,000,000 less for home repairs
will mean that more than 1000
homeowners will not be able to re-
pair their homes and may be forced
to shelter in unsafe conditions.
•$3,000,000 less for wheelchair
accessibility modifications means
that more than 150 disabled families
will be trapped in nursing homes
because there is so little affordable,
accessible housing in our city.
•$5,500,000 cut in funding for
rehab of affordable rental homes
will mean that 80 affordable rental
homes will not be preserved in our
City.
•$3,000,000 cut for 1st time home-
buyer assistance will mean that 300
June 5, 2020
families will not have help buying
their first home.
And if the cost of human lives
isn’t convincing enough, these cuts
will also cost Philadelphia taxpay-
ers more over the long term. For
example,
Our city spends $39 million on
temporary shelter and emergency
services for homeless people every
year. That’s more than five times the
amount the mayor is proposing to
spend to create permanent afford-
able rental housing.
16% of our city’s population has
a disability. Many of those folks
end up in the city’s nursing homes.
Seniors and people with disabilities
are moving unnecessarily to nursing
facilities because they cannot afford
accessible housing. It costs city
taxpayers $120,000/year to keep a
single person in a nursing home.
We urge you to oppose the May-
or’s cuts and protect the FY2021
funding of the Housing Trust Fund.
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
3

May 28, 2020

Dear Mercy Philadelphia Community,

Earlier this year, we announced the beginning of a process to pursue a new path for Mercy Catholic Medical Center – Mercy
Philadelphia Campus transitioning away from an inpatient hospital and toward one that better and more sustainably serves
West Philadelphia over the long term. As part of our commitment to transparency, we are reaching out to provide another
update related to those efforts.

Though before that update, it is important to take a moment to recognize the vitally important work of our healthcare heroes.
We are truly and immeasurably thankful for the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of our nurses, physicians and staff
in battling the COVID-19 pandemic in the hard-hit Philadelphia region. We know you have all felt the devastating impact of this
virus, and we at Mercy Philadelphia, sadly, recognize those beloved colleagues lost in recent months, whom we solemnly honor
by furthering our Mission and our duties as healers.

We also thank you, the members of our community, for doing all that you can to keep yourselves and in turn our staff safe. As
we begin to see the positive impact of social distancing taking hold and we begin to look positively toward services resuming,
a small group of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic leaders continues to explore options for the future of the Mercy Philadelphia
campus. While nothing has yet been finalized, we are getting closer, and we are hopeful that we will be in a position to share
with you some important news in the coming weeks. Aligned with our initial and ongoing discussions—both with colleagues
and community members—we are in close discussions with several possible partners who would enable a new, sustainable
healthcare future for our neighbors.

As we have vowed since the beginning, we remain committed to a deliberate, careful and thoughtful transformation that will
help ensure the community we cherish and have served for a century continues to have access to the critical services it needs
and deserves. And while Mercy Philadelphia may look quite different in the future, we will hold true to this promise.

As we continue down the path of transforming Mercy Philadelphia, we are committed to keeping our colleagues and community
as informed as possible when details and a decision become available. In the meantime, please join us in keeping those affected
by COVID-19, and the men and women on the front lines battling the virus, in your prayers.

Sincerely,

Jim Woodward Chris Cullom

President and CEO President
Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic Mercy Catholic Medical Center
02-15308
4 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
PACDC Policy Agenda
T
he Philadelphia Association
of Community Develop-
ment Corporations (PACDC)
released a policy agenda calling for
protections for renters, home owners,
small businesses, and the nonprofits
that serve them, to help Philadel-
phia make it through the immediate
COVID-19 crisis.
This agenda calls on our represen-
tatives in Washington D.C., Harris-
burg, and Philadelphia City Hall,
as well as philanthropists, to make
significant investments in programs
to:
•Prevent residential and commercial
evictions and foreclosures through
rental and utility assistance, out-
reach, and mediation programs;
•Expand adequate housing options
for people experiencing homeless-
ness and are at grave risk for expo-
sure to coronavirus;
•Ensure that affordable housing
production, preservation, and repair
continues;
•Provide flexible sources of fund-
ing, enhanced technical assistance,
and improve data collection for
and about small businesses on our
neighborhood commercial corridors
to keep them in business, prevent va-
cancy, and keep our corridors clean
and safe;
•Support the non-profits that serve
residents and small businesses by
ensuring they have necessary operat-
ing support to survive, and flexibility
so they can provide needed services
effectively and efficiently;
•Address challenges like the digi-
tal divide and language access that
create inequitable access to resourc-
es, and ensure that individuals not
served by federal programs due to
immigration status or other barriers
are served by more flexible local
resources.
The investments called for in
PACDC’s agenda are vital to survival
and recovery strategies in Phila-
delphia. Over the last twenty-eight
years, community development
corporations in Philadelphia have di-
rectly invested more than $3.9 billion
in our communities which realized
an additional $1.5 billion in local
economic activity. This work has
created over 12,000 full-time equiv-
alent jobs locally, and generated $45
million in tax revenue. In fact, it was
during some of the most challenging
economic times such as through the
Great Recession that a great deal of
this work happened. CDCs and relat-
ed non-profits continue serving our
communities when others are unable,
and no matter how tough times get.
PACDC’s members like the South-
west Development Corporation
represent the best Philadelphia has
to offer in times of crisis. Over the
last two months, they have leaped to
action providing food, stable hous-
ing, technology access, help with
applying for assistance programs for
those affected by the crisis, mental
and physical health programs, and
ongoing resident engagement to keep
the community connected.
Philadelphia will get through the
COVID-19 crisis because PACDC
members and other nonprofits are
doing this work every day, in good
times and during catastrophes.
PACDC looks forward to working
with them, our elected officials, and
philanthropists to push even harder
for the changes needed to create a
more equitable Philadelphia.
The Village becomes Gemma Services
Recent merger will sustain family support in Southwest.
By: Ted Behr
T
heVillage, known and respect-
ed as Presbyterian Children’s
Village since 1877, has pro-
vided caring professional services in
outpatient behavioral health, foster
& kinship care, adoption, out-of-
school nurture, and in-home support
for thousands of Southwest families
During the past several decades,
these activities have centered at the
Preheim Center at 6517 Chester Ave.
Effective January 1, 2020 theVillage
merged with Silver Springs – Martin
Luther School. The latter group,
which is associated with the Evan-
gelical Lutheran Church in America,
is even more venerable, offering
child and family care based in Ger-
mantown and other nearby locations
since 1859.
“Forming one organization under the
name Gemma Services, will enable
us to provide sustained and expanded
care for children, youth, and fam-
ilies in the Philadelphia region,”
recently advised Lynn Unipan, Chief
Development Officer. She affirmed
that the two faith-based groups have
kindred spiritual roots.
Although personal contact is un-
June 5, 2020
derstandably restricted under the
strict Covid-19 guidelines, “We are
accepting new inquiries and some
referrals.” For information in these
respects, Unipan suggested phoning
the numbers listed for each service
at the Gemma website, https://www.
silver-springs.org/response-to-
covid-19-3-17-20/
Why Gemma? In nature, a “gem-
ma” is a young plant that grows and
thrives independently - often after
a disruption such as a heavy storm,
an apt metaphor for the combined
organization’s start-up situation.
“When considering the work we do,
promoting hope and healing through
mental health services, education,
and specialized support for vulnera-
ble and at-risk children and families,
we feel the meaning behind our new
name reaffirms our belief that those
we serve are absolutely precious and
nothing is more important than cre-
ating and cultivating an environment
where they are given the opportunity
to grow… and flourish,” states the
Gemma online prospectus.
Martin Luther School and the Pre-
heim Center will retain their names
as part of Gemma Services.
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 5

Ballot Questions: 2020 Primary Election SW Senior Center Continues to Help

Key Independent Groups advise: “VOTE YES” Seniors
By: Ted Behr sure workers and the city are protected

R
in labor matters. The Philadelphia
egistered voters who have not Inquirer and the independent Commit-
yet voted will find two ballot tee of 70 both favor a “Yes” vote. A
questions on the new voting “No” vote means that governance of
machine screen when they enter poll- labor matters remains with the Office
ing booths for the Primary Election of the Mayor.
next Tuesday, June 2. Both have to Question No. 1 Text: ”Shall the
do with changing the way our city is Philadelphia Home Rule Charter be
organized under its governing consti- amended to revise rules pertaining to
tution, the Home Rule Charter. The prohibited activities of appointed City
proposed changes amend that Charter officers and employees, to generally
as follows: allow such officers and employees to
Question No. 1: Creating a Depart- volunteer for state and federal political
ment of Labor for the City campaigns outside of work time and
Question No. 2: Revising Political without using City resources; to con-
Activity Rules for City Employees tinue to prohibit participation in any
Outside Work political campaign for a City office or
Question No. 1 Text: Shall the Phila- Philadelphia-based state office; and to
delphia Home Rule Charter be amend- revise penalty provisions pertaining to
ed to create a Department of Labor, such restrictions and prohibited activi-
headed by a Cabinet-level Director, to ties generally?
enforce City laws that protect Philadel- Comment: Philadelphia has some
phia workers; to oversee labor rela- of the nation’s strictest regulations
tions, such as collective bargaining, prohibiting its employees’ working on
with the City’s unionized workforce; political campaigns. After the pro-
to investigate compliance with worker posed changes, the City’s rules remain
protections set forth in City contracts; among the toughest. What it does
and to manage programs concerning allow is that outside work city workers
City employees; and to create a Board can volunteer on political campaigns
of Labor Standards to review and adju- of candidates running for offices in
dicate matters arising from such work? localities outside of Philadelphia or on
Comment: At present, all the labor a state or federal level.
activities listed in the proposal are The expectation is that these em-
handled under the Mayor’s Office of ployees will bring to such campaigns Anthony Correa and Reba Red, SW Senior Center staff and Police Officer Jacobs
Labor which was created by a direc- additional energy, commitment, and are ready to have special meals delivered to members of the Center who are
tive from the Mayor. The proposal practical knowledge to the electoral veterans.
transfers these functions into a new process – outside the city. Restric-
Department of Labor under the Home tions remain in force on participating By: Globe Staff Writer

T
Rule Charter. Little or no changes in campaigns for Philadelphia offices,
in relations between the City and its state representatives, state senators and he Southwest Senior Center Staff is also making sure that the
employees and those of contractors local judges for whom Philadelphia closed in the middle of Center’s older adults have enough
working for the city. What addition- voters cast votes. The new regulations March like many others, food by having Grab & Go meals
al cost to taxpayers will come from also up-date the penalties if employees but the dedicated employees have available each day.
the change has not been estimated violate the amended rules. remained working and connected The Center honored about a
yet. What the new arrangement does A “Yes” vote, supported by the Phil- to the Center’s members. Social dozen members who are veterans.
provide for is a separate Board of La- adelphia Inquirer and the Committee workers and counselors are calling Those members received special care
bor Relations to act as a judge on the of Seventy, hallows changes to the and checking in with the members, packages that were delivered by two
Labor Department regarding in a legal Charter that relax rules on volunteer
many of whom are ready to go City Police Officers who thanked
and proper way. political activities by city workers. A
A “Yes” vote brings the labor oper- “No” vote keeps the present restric- back to the Center each week day. them for their service to the country.
ations of the city under the Home Rule tions in effect. The Center’s Supportive Older For information about the
Charter. And it sets up an independent For more information, contact: Women’s Network (SOWN) is even Southwest Senior Center, call 215-
Board of Labor Standards to make bettergov@seventy.org meeting by conference calls. 937-1880.
6 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
Community Landcare Project
Cleaning and Greening Project - Southwest Philadelphia
T
he Institute for the Develop-
ment of African-American
Youth, Inc, (IDAAY), under
the direction of Greg Thompson,
Project Manager, has been contracted
to train an estimated 50 returning cit-
izens in landcare design throughout
the City. The project is in collab-
oration with Councilman Kenyatta
Johnson and the Philadelphia Hor-
ticultural Society (PHS). Additional
support is provided by the “Citizens
Concerned for Youth” and S.C.O.P.
The focus of the project is life skills
development and mentoring to
support the “Roots to Reentry Boot
Camp Program”. The program is
designed to strengthen and enhance
the skill-set of all enrolled partici-
pants. The participants are currently
involved in on-the-job training for
landscaping with various companies.
The program paid for 7 weeks of
Transpasses for the training, which
June 5, 2020
included OSHA, CPR and Operating
Commercial Landcare Equipment, as
well as for all of their uniform items,
including boots, gloves, jackets,
goggles, pants and all of their PPE
needs. The Community Landcare
Project began on Monday, April 13,
2020 and will end on October 30,
2020
An estimated 50 participants from
the Roots to Re-Entry Boot Camp
Program will clean, green and main-
tain over 200 vacant lots. The partici-
pants learn how to provide the proper
maintenance through a specific
design for the care of the land. The
purpose is to remove debris, seed
and cut the grass and to bring forth a
form of beautification to Southwest
Philadelphia neighborhoods. Out of
the 50 participants, 30 of them have
already been hired by their Landcare
Contractor Partners.
June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 7
8 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
Impacts of Litter in Our Waterways
By: Kadafi El-Kardah, Pennsylvania Environmental Council
H
ave you ever wondered how
litter impacts the quality
of our local waterways
and neighborhoods? Do you know
where rainwater goes after entering
storm drains in our streets, or what
happens to the trash and debris it car-
ries? More importantly, do you know
the ways that you can help minimize
litter while protecting our waterways
and sources of drinking water?
Litter comes in a variety of
shapes and sizes and, if left unat-
tended, accumulates on the land. It
travels by wind and by rainwater
runoff, and can end up in surprising
places. Unfortunately, improperly
disposed consumer waste – chiefly
bottles, bags, and cigarette butts – is
a common sight along our sidewalks,
streets, and parking lots. If you’ve
been out for a walk recently, you
may also have noticed an increase in
a particular type of litter: disposable
face masks and gloves. Used PPE
is being discarded on sidewalks,
streets, and parking lots, adding to
Philadelphia’s existing litter prob-
lem.
How does all of this litter affect
our neighborhoods? Most of us
understand intuitively, and numerous
studies have borne out, that litter
depresses real estate values and can
deter new businesses from opening
in a neighborhood. But the impact
doesn’t stop there. According to a
National Geographic report, more
than 40 percent of plastic is used
only once before it is thrown away.
These plastics linger in the environ-
ment for a long time, inhibiting plant
growth and otherwise disrupting eco-
systems. Even worse, over time they
break down into smaller particles
called microplastics, which can be
ingested by both animals and people.
It would be bad enough if these im-
pacts were confined to the land. But
during a storm, rain washes trash,
chemicals, and any other improperly
disposed material into storm drains.
From there, the polluted water
makes its way into nearby creeks and
streams before ultimately draining
into the Delaware and Schuylkill
rivers – the source of our drinking
water.
The best way to head off these
negatives impacts is at the source: by
preventing our trash from becoming
litter in the first place. A statewide
study by Keep Pennsylvania Beauti-
ful and Burns & McDonnell reported
that Philadelphia spends more than
$48 million a year on cleanup, edu-
cation, enforcement, and efforts to
prevent illegal dumping. Nearly 90
percent of that sum goes to cleanup
projects, with only about 10 percent
left for preventative measures.
Source: https://www.keeppabeau-
tiful.org/
Focusing on prevention will help
reduce the cost and boost the over-
all impact of our anti-litter efforts.
That’s why it’s important that we
all do our part as residents, and
not rely on the City and state to do
everything alone. We ALL can play a
role in keeping our streets clean and
keeping litter out of our waterways:
Fasten the lids on trash and
recycling receptacles. If not con-
tained, light-weight materials such as
newspapers, plastic bags, bottles can
be easily picked up by the wind and
scattered over your street or drive-
way. Philadelphians who don’t have
a recycling receptacle with a lid, can
request one by calling 311. Avoid
putting loose trash into your outdoor
trash receptacle; instead, use garbage
bags for your loose materials.
Reduce your paper waste. If you
don’t want circulars such as food
menus and advertisements left on
your property, you can register your
property with the Department of
Licenses and Inspections (L&I). After
registering, you will be mailed a
circular-free property decal. The decal
lets advertisers know not to leave ads
on your property. For more informa-
tion about the decal or to request an
application, contact (215) 686-2414.
Participate in a cleanup in your
neighborhood. Picking up litter in the
neighborhood is a good way to reduce
the amount of trash washing into our
storm drains. The City holds annual
cleanups in the spring and fall, but
these are not the only opportunities to
get involved! For more information
about cleanups in your area, call 311
to find out your district’s Clean Block
Officer.
Organize your own cleanup. The
Community Life Improvement Pro-
gram (CLIP) loans tools and sup-
plies to residents that are interested
in cleaning up their neighborhood.
To request cleanup supplies, contact
CLIP at 215-685-9558. The City’s
Litter Index is a great tool for visual-
izing litter hotspots in your neighbor-
hood.
June 5, 2020
Help Spread the Word. Educate your
friends and family about the impact
of trash in our waterways. Residents
can mark storm drains with decals
informing pedestrians about the link
between storm drains and creeks, and
reminding them that nothing should
be pushed or swept into the drain. To
request supplies, contact the Philadel-
phia Water Department.
Report issues to 311. The City’s 311
hotline can help you report qual-
ity-of-life issues in the city. This
includes illegal dumping, graffiti, and
other problems that may require ac-
tion by the City. You can simply dial
311, download the app, or use their
online reporting form.
Education and enforcement are key
when looking to prevent or reduce
litter. Let’s work together to improve
the quality of our neighborhoods and
keep litter out of the water.
About the Author:
Kadafi El-Kardah is the Community
Engagement Specialist at the Pennsyl-
vania Environmental Council (PEC).
PEC protects and restores the natural
and built environments through inno-
vation, collaboration, education, and
advocacy. Through a partnership with
the Philadelphia Water Department,
PEC is raising awareness of the ef-
fects of water pollution via stormwa-
ter runoff. For more information, visit
their stormwater page at https://pecpa.
org/program/stormwater-education
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 9
Covid-19 Transmission Dangers Continue
“It ain’t over until it’s over” (Yogi Berra, NY Yankees Manager, 1973)
By: Globe Staff Writer
D
espite the inconsiderate
modeling of Pres. Trump’s
behavior, our presence in
public without face masks, and
ignoring appropriate social distanc-
ing is a mistake. Or, as the president
would Tweet it, “Not practicing
Covid-19 safety is a MISTAKE!”
This reality was brought home to us
in horrifying fashion as we watched
our brothers and sisters protesting
the murder of George Floyd and
crying out “I can’t breath” this past
week. Every shout may have been
spreading the dreaded virus – irre-
spective of the truth of their message
and their commitment to fight social
justice.
According to whatever medical
authorities you confide in, Harvard
Medical School, the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention
or the World Health Organization,
airborne transmission of the corona-
virus by you (even symptom-free)
or others remains a strong risk. The
tiny particles can travel through
moisture droplets via coughing and
sneezes.
It’s a mistake, Harvard Medical
says because the small virus particles
that can linger in the air for extended
periods of time, unlike droplets from
coughs, which settle quickly.
While the city may gradually re-
lax commercial and social gathering,
it’s a mistake to think you are safe in
public – that others with whom you
come in contact with are safe from
you.
Without knowing it and certain-
ly without intending to harm loved
ones, people who serve you in stores
or agencies, or friends and neigh-
bors…or even strangers on the bus or
in a shop, we all represent risks.
We’ve been sure of this danger ever
since we read the reports of the ex-
plosive transmission on the Diamond
Princess cruise ship in February. It
is strengthened when we read the
horrifying statistics of 5,600 or more
deaths in nursing homes in our state.
It will turn up again in a week or so
when the price of the demonstrations
is paid in emergency wards of our
hospitals when our neighbors pay the
price for their protest contact.
So, if you or those near you begin
experiencing Covid-19 symptoms
similar to the common cold, the flu
or seasonal allergies, take prompt
action to isolate them or yourself and
get sound medical advice.
A recent medical paper indicated
that 10 percent of Covid-19 cases
generate 80 percent of the spread.
The super-spreading takes place
largely indoors, especially when
building air conditioning systems ar-
en’t working or in poorly ventilated
rooms and corridors.
Remember: six feet of distancing is
good; 10 feet is better
Information for this story was
taken from a release by Harvard
C.H.Chan School of Health by
Joseph Allen, May 26, 2020, with
additional comments from the Wash-
ington Post Covid-19 blog.
10 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
Exemplary programming for extraordinary
times
I
ntroducing the Penn Rising Se-
nior Summer Academy – the first
of its kind in scope and scale,
completely free, and designed just
for your student.
In response to the unprecedented
disruptions to the delivery of edu-
cation and college access supports
during the COVID-19 pandemic, the
University of Pennsylvania is offer-
ing the Penn Rising Senior Summer
Academy (PennRSSA) to support
the 14,000+ rising seniors attending
School District of Philadelphia pub-
lic and charter high schools in these
extraordinary times.
Our mission is to:
•Increase student access to high-qual-
ity learning experiences through
engaging academic instruction and
enrichment opportunities which incor-
porate hands-on, enjoyable experienc-
es with real-world applications
•Actively promote student and fami-
ly engagement
Share Food Program Releases Interactive Map Of Covid-19 Food Sites Throughout
Philadelphia Region
T
oday, Share Food Program
released an interactive map
of locations where residents
in Philadelphia and the surrounding
suburbs can go to pick up free food
boxes throughout the week. The
map can be accessed here.
COVID-19 has had a devastating
impact on Americans and has laid
bare large gaps in food access
throughout the nation. Share has
been there to answer the call and
has expanded operations to meet
increased needs.
•Create a program environment
which consistently communicates
high expectations for student partic-
ipants
•Equip students for postsecondary
success by increasing their skills,
knowledge, confidence, motivation,
and preparedness to successfully
complete the postsecondary applica-
tion and enrollment process.
Students can choose from two
virtual program options, both of
which are completely free of charge.
OpenRSSA
OpenRSSA is a self-paced online
course open to all rising seniors
on the topic of college preparation.
With extensive content for real-world
application, participants can work
through the online on their own
schedule to earn a certificate of
completion that can be displayed on
resumes and college applications, as
well as professional networks such
as LinkedIn.
All told, Share has more than
70 partner sites available Monday
to Saturday, where individuals and
families in need can pick up boxes
with produce, non-perishables,
and other healthy food items. No
identification is required, and no one
will be turned away from receiving
a box, as long as supplies last. The
sites are accessible by car or by
foot; Share understands that many
residents do not own cars and rely
on public transportation to travel.
“We have seen unprecedented
OpenRSSA at a glance:
Who: All rising seniors attending
School District of Philadelphia public
and charter high schools
What: Free, self-paced, online course
in College Preparation
Where: Online modules available
through Coursera
When: Anytime – participants can
complete the courses at their own
pace
PennRSSA Academy
The Academy component of PennRS-
SA is a virtual four-week intensive
summer program designed to im-
merse up to 2,500 rising seniors in an
academic, career, and postsecondary
preparatory experience. Instruction
and mentorship will be offered to
cohorts of 25 students each, support-
ed by a dedicated network of ap-
proximately 100 Penn graduate and
professional student teaching assis-
tants and subject matter experts from
all 12 academic schools at Penn.
Designed with the input of specialists
of online learning, the Academy sim-
ulates the traditional Monday-Friday
school week, with a combination of
live instruction and asynchronous
demand for food throughout this
pandemic,” said Steve Preston,
Share’s Director of Emergency
Response. “We’re excited to unveil
this map of our partner sites, which
will allow people to find fresh,
healthy food without traveling too
far from their homes.”
About Share Food Program:
Share Food Program is a nonprofit
organization focused on eradicating
food insecurity in the Philadelphia
region through food distribution,
education, and advocacy. Through
June 5, 2020
learning for students to complete on
their own time. At the conclusion of
the program, students can receive 1
credit on their high school transcript,
as well as a certificate of completion
that can be displayed on resumes and
college applications, as well as pro-
fessional networks such as LinkedIn.
The Academy at a glance:
Who: All rising seniors attending
School District of Philadelphia public
and charter high schools; up to 2,500
applicants will be selected on a first-
come, first-serve basis
What: Free online intensive summer
program in academic, career, and
postsecondary preparation
Where: Online modules in Canvas
and Google Meet
When: Program runs July 6-31,
2020, with an orientation day in late
June/early July
Ready to learn more?
Sign up here and receive additional
information about next steps
Visit our website and read about our
team
For any questions, please contact
us at penn-rssa@upenn.edu.
partnerships with nearly 800 schools
and more than 350 pantries across
the region, Share Food Program has
recently become the largest-serving
food bank in the Philadelphia
region, and the largest independent
food bank in the country.
For more information about the
Share Food Program, please visit
sharefoodprogram.org, or connect
with us on Twitter or Instagram at
@ShareFoodPhilly.
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 11

Face Masks Against COVID-19 A Special Memorial Day Meal for Outley Men
Uncomfortable? Inconvenient? A social downer? YES, On the menu, “Meatballs Laced with Love”
but they save lives!
By: Ted Behr

M
By: Ted Behr

T
he controversy concerning the
wearing of face masks during
the present Covid-19 pandemic
continues. Most science reports are
clear: wearing fabric face masks helps
protect others from any virus you
might encounter.
They afford little protection for
you if someone else is spreading the
virus. Sadly, there is also a social
stigma and unreasoning fear when
black people wear masks – but that’s
an entirely different issue.
In some parts of the country,
people consider the wearing of masks
symbolizes some sort of reduction
of the American freedoms they are
so proud of. One saw that attitude in
the demonstrators in Michigan, and
unfortunately here in Philadelphia as
well. One also sees it among public
figures from our president on down
through his administration.
The decisive reality, for me, is that
that people, including me and, God
forbid you yourself, may be infected
with the Covid-19 virus and have no
symptoms – no fever, no shaking, no
coughing, no chest congestion! Peo-
ple without symptoms may breathe or
cough the tiny virus particles in the
air without knowing it. And, so may
I (which is why I’ve lived under quar-
antine in my senior retirement center
for the past 5 weeks!)
Some masks do a better job of fil-
tering out the virus droplets than oth-
ers: The best ones used by our health
professionals and hospitals stop 95
percent of them (which is why they
are called “N95’s”). But cloth masks
of any kind and especially those
combined with paper filters do protect
friends, loved ones, and people you
pass in buildings and on the street if
you are a virus carrier.
Reducing disease spread then
requires two things: first, limiting
contacts with infected individuals.
This is why physical distancing is so
important! Second, it’s the wearing
of face coverings – masks of some
sort. Public mask-wearing is most
effective at stopping the spread of the
virus when compliance is high: The
more people who wear masks, the
more everyone is protected.
Some commentators feel that
wearing masks impairs our quality of
life. They like to feel fresh air on our
faces and talk to people while being
able to see people’s expressions, their
smiles. And we know that facial
expressions are an important part of
non-verbal communication.
On the other hand, wearing a face
mask tells others that you care about
them, and this is a vital message when
we are all under so much pressure!
While the
Covid-19 crisis
continues, all
concerned
citizens should
be wearing face
masks when out
in public places.
The more who
wears them, the
safer everyone
is!
aking lunch for your friends
should not be that difficult!
But, leave it the Covid-19
to complicate the pre-Memorial Day
luncheon plans for Rich Smith and
Carmela Curatola last Saturday.
To begin with, of course, their
guest list numbered 57 men who are
lodged at the Outley House Men’s
Emergency Shelter at 70th Street and
Woodland Avenue. For many years,
Rich and Carmela have generously
provided the food and prepared and
served lunch for the Outley residents
5-6 times a year on national holiday
weekends. While the food provided
by Chef Rickey Hill and his team
for the Outley men is wholesome
and nutritious, there is something
special about what the suburbanites
provide… spoon burgers liberally
laced with love! And there is always
enough for seconds!
On the menu for Memorial Satur-
day was supposed to be the ever-pop-
ular “Sloppy-Joe” spoonburgers,
cooked with celery, onions, carrots,
peas, and multi-colored peppers and
other seasonings served over buttered
tri-colored pasta – plus the usual
Jell-O with fruit, cornbread, and pie.
When Rich arrived at his favorite
BJs Wholesale Club to buy the fix-
ings, the outlet was out of large-sized
ground beef, and smaller packs were
limited to two per person!
Surveying what was available,
Rich made some quick menu mod-
ifications and picked up as many
packages of frozen meatballs as he
was allowed. Thus, the entrée for the
holiday foodfest became “Irish/Ital-
ian/Swedish/American meatballs” in
a base of Cream of Mushroom soup!
With the regular Outley kitchen crew
of Robert, Brian, and Clark providing
their usual encouragement, sup-
port, and occasional taste sampling
during the process, Rich and Carmela
donned their masks and plastic gloves
and the delicious meal was soon on
the table for the Outley men (also
masked and properly distanced).
“It came out very well with only
one comment about the missing
sloppy joes!” confessed Carmela, in
real-time a computer science technol-
ogist, and choir and orchestra member
at her church. “They came at a nice
steady pace, never crowding and
spread out wearing masks.
“They were so kind and didn’t stop
thanking us for coming and making
the food!” added Rich. “One of the
men thanked the entire kitchen staff
and remarked “God is good - all the
time!”
Outley House, named in honor
of SELF, Inc. founder Dr. Sylvester
Outley, serves single, adult men who
are experiencing homelessness and
are between the ages of 18 and 70+
years old. The average stay for its
normal clientele of about 170 is about
nine months, with physical and men-
tal health services, case management,
and social and job skills training also
provided. For more information, visit
www.selfincorp.org/outley-house or
call 215-496-9610.
Rich Smith (left) and
Robert Green put the
finishing touches to the
Memorial Day holiday
lunch at the Self INC.
Outley House Emergen-
cy Shelter on Woodland
Ave. Pandemic food
store restrictions com-
plicated Smith’s menu
selection
 12 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper
PHS to reward home and Community
Gardeners
Sing up to compete – Volunteer to Judge!
By: Ted Behr
T T
he Pennsylvania Horticultural
Society (PHS) has kicked off its
2020 annual Gardening Con-
test - this year on a virtual basis. “We
invite you and your family to show
off your skills in this fun and friendly
competition – on a virtual basis this
summer! And, if you’re a PHS mem-
ber, you are also welcomed to be a
volunteer judge,” the PHS website
advises.
Home and community gardens
have always provided beauty to our
neighborhoods and nutritious produce
for our dinner tables. This growing
season, the pandemic has dramatically
increased food insecurity in greater
Philadelphia. Creating an extra, low-
cost source of essential foods is even
more important. And it’s lots of fun
when it’s a family effort and intergen-
erational
The garden contest sponsored by
PHS gives residents an added incen-
tive to increase food production to
share with families, communities, and
local food pantries. All types of gar-
dens are welcome. This year’s contes-
tants will be judged based on garden
photographs and receive feedback
virtually.
The possibilities for backyard vegetable gardening starting with this cherry tomato one-
pot plot are endless. Information and guidance on gardening are available from Penna.
Horticultural Society which also offers prizes for backyard and community gardeners
Entries are welcome in these catego-
ries:
- Outdoor Home Gardens (including
container gardens)
- Public Space and Community
Gardens
- Indoor Houseplant Gardens NEW!
To learn more and sign up, visit
https://phsonline.org/for-gardeners/
gardening-competitions. Please email
questions to gardeningcontest@penn-
hort.org or call 215.988.8897.
Once you have registered, follow
the instructions to submit your photos
and questionnaire by June 22.
For the first time, PHS will offer
a Photography Workshops to help
gardeners take good photographs. The
series includes:
•Photography Essentials for the
Outdoor Garden: Tues. May 26, 12 - 1
p.m.
•Processing Garden and Interior
Plantscape Photos: Thurs. June 4,
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
To register for the workshops,vis-
it: https://phsonline.org/events/
photography-essentials-outdoor-gar-
den-may2020 (Information for this
article was summarized from the PHS
website).
EPA to Resume Remediation Work at
Clearview Superfund Site
By: Ted Behr
he Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Region 3 has
announced that construction
work to remediate the polluted
Clearview Landfill in Eastwick is
scheduled to resume on June 1,
2020.
The work by contractors will
focus on the planting of vegetation
in the fresh soil cap on top of the
superfund mound. As of the March
2020 date when the Covid-19 crisis
forced the EPA to cease operations
for safety reasons, some 5000 trees
had been planted. This is just a
small percentage of the plantings
which will take place according to
Josh Barber, the EPA Superfund
site’s project manager.
The EPA feels that the coronavi-
rus risks prevent them from restart-
ing the balance of the cleanups on
residential properties.
The Clearview Landfill super-
fund site comprises about 55 acres
and contains a cocktail of chemical
pollutants. The remediation plan in-
Vegetation planted earlier this year along the eastern side Darby Creek by EPA
contractors is beginning to sprout. The creek flows through the polluted Clearview
Landfill now being addressed by the ongoing EPA project.
June 5, 2020
volves covering the entire plot with
a seal and then laying down a 4-foot
covering of fresh, uncontaminated
soil on top of the 75-foot mountain
of trash.
It is within this soil layer the
EPA is planting its virtual forest of
trees and other vegetation. The site
and the waterways flowing through
it will also be improved through the
treatment of the adjacent wetlands
and stormwater management.
For a fascinating insight into the
history of the Eastwick and Clear-
view story, visit “How Philadelphia
built a neighborhood on toxic soil
of former Clearview Landfill” by
Catalina Jaramillo of WHYY.
Updates and contact information
may be found on the website of the
Community Advisory Group formed
of Eastwick and Philadelphia area
stakeholders: https://www.eldca-
cag.org/
Official EPA information is
available at: https://www.eldcacag.org/
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 13
Councilman Johnson & Community
Leaders Decry Looting
Meeting amid the wreckage of looted stores at Woodland
Plaza
By: Ted Behr
A
somber 2nd District City
Councilman Kenyatta
Johnson met with a selection
of community leaders in front of a
burned-out store in the Woodland
Village Plaza at 6100 Woodland
Avenue Tuesday, June 2.
The range and tone of the remarks
and conversations were striking!
Profound sadness at the death of
George Floyd in Minneapolis and
other recent shooting, rapport with
the national outpouring of grief,
strong support for protests against
police violence and for greater
law enforcement accountability, a
commitment to community unity to
combat racism and reduce econom-
ic, health, education, and social
disparities and support of programs
to benefit young African American
Establishing some social distance, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (2nd from left)
and ACANA founder and CEO Voffee Jabateh (next at right) gathered with civic
leaders in front of boarded-up stores amid the wreckage of looting at the Woodland
Plaza Shopping Center June 2.
males.
The positive elements were in stark
contrast to the ugly remains of
looting on the sidewalks and visible
wreckage strewn about inside the
now boarded up shopping center
businesses.
“I’m going to make it my mis-
sion to first bring healing into the
community.” Councilman Johnson
stressed. “Then, we have to work
together on all the critical issues,
housing, education, health, and jobs.
“We need to make a strong effort
to overcome racial differences in
the 2nd District and throughout the
city,” he maintained. “Moreover,
we can’t let outside agitators come Wreckage of two ATM’s at the Woodland Village Plaza at 6100 Woodland Ave. Six
between us.” stores and one food market were broken into and looted in the early hours of June 2.
Moved by the damage around him,
the Councilman mentioned that to get this initiative started he had orga- migrant family income only margin-
nized a meeting of Southwest leaders ally above the federal poverty level
on Thursday, June 4 at St. Paul’s and many lacked health insurance
A.M.E. Church at 84th and Lindbergh that made them much more vulnera-
Blvd. ble during the pandemic.
Also present was Musa Trawally, a The looting had apparently taken
commercial corridor manager for place early that morning. A bystand-
the African Cultural Alliance of er who did not wish to reveal her
North America (ACANA). Trawal- name mentioned that she had been
ly outlined in grim detail how the driving past the Plaza on the way
current civil unrest was deepening the back from her night shift job and saw
difficulties faced by small immigrant the fire. “I turned into the parking
merchants along Chester, Woodland, lot and immediately saw what looked
and Elmwood Avenues. “These like a hundred people running from
businesses were already in a desper- store to store to some cars,” she re-
ate position because of the Covid-19 counted. “I knew from the radio what
shutdown,” the distressed local advo- was probably happening and turned
cate said. “As soon as possible, they around and left, and then called 911
need access to the loans, grants, and about the fire.” In all, six retail out-
payroll protections available through lets and the corner food market were
the Small Business Administration.” broken into. The two ATMs were
Trawally asked the City Council to smashed, and safes were uprooted
look into this situation on an urgent and stolen from one establishment.
basis. He noted that the average im-
14 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper June 5, 2020

Neighbors & Partners Coordinate Block

Clean-Up
By: Lisa White, Block Captain & SWCDC NAS Member

O
n Thursday, May 21, 2020,
after experiencing ten weeks
of the COVID-19 pandemic,
the 5800 Block of Beaumont Avenue
received a much-needed distraction
from the mental stress created by the
pandemic. The Cleaning & Green-
ing Project of the Institute for the
Development of African American
Youth (IDAAY) in collaboration
with Councilman Kenyatta Johnson
and the Penn Horticultural Soci-
ety, was that distraction. Beaumont
Avenue, as does many blocks in
Southwest Philadelphia, experi-
ences dumping, overgrown weeds,
abandoned cars and trash in our
driveways. Many of the residents
are vigilant about cleaning up the
area, but the winter months prevent
regular block clean ups. It is during
those times that the driveways be-
come overwhelmed with trash.
At 8:00 AM on Thursday morn-
ing Mr. Greg Thompson, Project
Manager for the group of men,
rounded the driveway of the 5800
Block of Beaumont Avenue clothed
in bright orange vests, gloves, work
boots and masks. They were armed
with trash bags, shovels, string trim-
mers, leaf blowers, rakes and tree
pruners. The Cleaning & Greening
group came ready to tackle what
they said was one of their largest
cleanups. To the residents of the
block they looked like the Calvary.
The group of men worked feverishly
clearing large rocks which fell from
the wall of the neighboring drive-
way. The wall is in total disrepair and
has been a huge annoyance because
of mud and debris that washes from
it into the lower Beaumont Avenue
driveway. The neighbors would love
to have it fixed but it is too expen-
sive for them to repair. They pulled
weeds, removed mattresses and trash,
trimmed overgrown weeds and trees
and cleared fallen branches.
These men worked for 8+ hours
clearing the driveways, which were
previously not passable or useful
for parking. Parking on the small
street can be difficult so access to the
driveway is important. The neighbors
on the block were grateful. Everyone
was overwhelmed by the work ethic
on display and genuine concern of
the workers to make the space one
that neighbors could take pride in
once again. The only thing the group
asked was that neighbors maintain
the driveways now that the hard work
has been done. As a thank you, some
neighbors came together to provide a
continental breakfast and a hot lunch
for the gentleman. Neighbor Shon-
da Finley prepared both breakfast
and lunch. The group of workers
enjoyed food, cold water and soft
drinks during their work day. At the
end of the job the group removed no
less than one hundred bags of trash
and trees. The 5800 Block of Beau-
mont Avenue will not forget Mr. Greg
Thompson and those that work with
him anytime soon.

Neighbors & partners recently collaborated to clean-up the 5800 block of Beaumont
Avenue
 June 5, 2020 Southwest Globe Times Newspaper 15

Free Food Distribution Continues in Southwest

With the official unemployment rate at 7.1 percent as of May 2020, free food distribution agencies have continued their programs to put food on the tables
for needy families and individuals.
The current locations and service times in Southwest are shown below. Those preceded by the symbol “s” receive supplies through the Share Food Pro-
gram. Those preceded by “P” are supplied by Philabundance (215-339-0900). Both these organizations are in urgent need of both volunteers and donations!

S) Phila. Montessori School 2227 Island Ave. 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Christy Recreation Center 728 S 55th St 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Giving Heart Ministries 6506 Elmwood Ave 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Bartram High School 2401 S. 67th St 9 - 12 Thursdays
S) Richard Allen Charter School 2601 S. 58th St. 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Bartram Village 5404 Gibson Dr. 9 – 12 All weekdays
S) Mitchell Elementary School 5500 Kingsessing Ave 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Mastery Hardy Williams High 5400 Warrington Ave. 10 – 12 Mon. & Thurs
S) Comegys School 5100 Greenway Ave. 9 - 12 Thursdays
The Common Place 58th St & Chester Ave 10 – 1 Tuesdays
Southwest Senior Center 6916 Elmwood Ave
(Phone 215-937-1880)
P) Divine Mercy Food Cupboard 6667 Chester Avenue
P) Faith Temple Pentecostal Ch 5618 Kingsessing Avenue
P) Sherwood Christian Outreach 5543 Willows Ave
P) Berry Long Group 1745 S. 58th St.
P) Ezekiel Baptist Church 5701 Grays Ave.
P) Turning Points-Tilden Middle 6601 Elmwood Avenue

Philadelphia police
lend a hand with
loading Philabundance
supplies for SW free
food distribution sites.
12th District cops
have been particularly
helpful at the SW
Senior Center

For food relief, call the WHY Hunger Hotline at 1-800-5-HUNGRY or visit http://www.auntbertha.com.
Food distribution agencies received good news from Jeff Brown, founder and CEO of ShopRite Supermarkets. ShopRite will be contributing food from the
two stores that were looted during the past few days.
*For more information about Share visit: sharefoodprogram.org, or connect on Twitter or Instagram at @ShareFoodPhilly.
Data for this article was provided by a release from Bellevue Strategies, wwwbellevuestrategies.com Photo courtesy of WHYY/Philabundance