Community residents come together to improve playground at Lea Elementary

Green schoolyards enhance learning and play, provide open space for neighborhoods, and help manage stormwater for the city. Yet many of Philadelphia’s schoolyards are paved with asphalt and surrounded by chain link fencing.

Join the Community Design Collaborative, AIA Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Water Department for a design charrette and public resentation to explore how we can create greener, more sustainable schoolyards in Philadelphia.

The design charrette will focus on two Philadelphia public schools: Lea Elementary School in West Philadelphia and Kelly Elementary School in Germantown. In the process of brainstorming ideas for Lea and Kelly Schools, the charrette will generate design models for greening schoolyards throughout the city. Concepts will be shared with the public and a panel of experts in education, community development, and sustainability.

The public is welcome to attend our presentation on Thursday, May 10, from 4pm-6pm at the Center for Architecture, 1218 Arch Street.  Please RSVP to: http://conta.cc/HtfumM

We'd love to see you there.

For more information, please contact Cedar Park Neighbors Vice President, David Hincher, at david.hincher@gmail.com or visit the Community Design Collaborative's website here.

Board of Directors Election & Annual Membership Meeting

When?  Monday, April 23, 2012 6:30 –7:30 pm Voting; 7:00 pm Annual Meeting

Where?

Calvary Center for Culture & Community 48th St. & Baltimore Avenue

Agenda

  1. Welcome
  2. Introduction of nominees and standing Board Members
  3. CPN Education Committee and discussion
  4. Featured Speaker:  Andrew Maloney, City Planning Commission, Philadelphia2035 Comprehensive Plan
  5. CPN survey initiative in preparation for City Planning Commission neighborhood plan
  6. Community Announcements
  7. Announcements of new Board Members (polls close at 7:30 pm)

Who's running for the Board of Director?

Below are the biographies of those who are running for the board.

President

Michael Froehlich, 500 block, S. 48th Street

I live in Cedar Park with my partner, Susanna, and three-year-old daughter, Zora. What do we love about our neighborhood?  The porches, the restaurants, the play grounds, the trees, and, most importantly, the people!  I have served on the board of CPN for about three years, most recently as Vice President.  During the day, I work as a legal aid lawyer with Community Legal Services. I am a founder of the West Philly Tool Library and serve on the boards of UC Green and Shakespeare in Clark Park.  I'm excited about the opportunity to continue to work together to improve Cedar Park for long-time residents and newcomers, seniors and school children, and everyone in between.

First Vice President

Monica Allison, 4900 block,  Catharine Street

This is my 16th year in Cedar Park and I am just ending my 4th term as President of CPN.  Over the past four years, I assisted in the Baltimore Avenue Conversation, worked to maintain our renovated park, helped keep Friday Night Jazz at Cedar Park, celebrated Cedar Park’s centennial anniversary and served as a community liaison with other organizations in our area.  I would like to continue working towards a cohesive vision of our neighborhood, working with other organizations to bring that to the whole of West Philadelphia.   I serve on the board of UC Green and I am the Program Director for my nonprofit: Virtual Tutoring and Mentoring, Inc., an educational learning center for cyber schooled children. My passions are our youth, their education, honoring their experiences and helping them heal, as well as educational choice for parents.  To that end I have just been elected President of Pennsylvania Families for Public Cyber Schools, which enables me to have more of a voice in Harrisburg with our legislators.  I am completing my degree and certification in Christian Counseling. As First Vice President, I will support our new President in his endeavors and I look forward to continuing to serve my neighbors in a new capacity.

 

 Second Vice President

 

David Hincher, 5000 block, Catharine Street

I have lived in Cedar Parkfor the past 4 years. My wife and I are raising a 3 year old daughter, Lucy, who attends the Children's Community School located within the Calvary Center.   We are actively involved on our block, assisting in the annual end of summer block party, block clean ups, impromptu book readings with neighborhood kids, parent support group meetings at our house, etc. We love the neighborhood and are excited to see it brimming with activity and amenities such as the new Mariposa Coop.  I am a licensed architect and leverage that knowledge and expertise to assist a multitude of neighborhood groups. I have a particular interest in issues that impact the quality of life in the community, such as the vitality of neighborhood schools, zoning, development, safety, etc. I was the lead volunteer on the Baltimore Avenue Community Corridor design study, completed in 2010.  I joined the CPN Property Housing Task Force to further the strategic vision for Baltimore Ave.  My goal is to assist CPN in achieving the Baltimore Avenue vision to extend prosperity further west along our main street. I am also involved with an ad hoc CPN group preparing for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission's upcoming community plan and zoning effort.   I am an active member of the West Philadelphia Coalition for Neighborhood Schools (WPCNS), working closely with Henry C. Lea Elementary School. I am part of the Greening Lea Task Force, focused on improvements to the building and schoolyard.

 

Secretary

Dorothy Welch Berlind, 500 block, S. 48th Street

I have served as the Board’s Secretary for the past several years and will serve another if that is the wish of the membership.  I also serve as the Board’s representative to the University City District’s Board of Directors.  I am a thirty-five year resident of Cedar Park, recently retired from the University of Pennsylvania.  I am originally from New Hampshire and was educated at Barnard College and at the University of Pennsylvania.  I have a grown up son who is living and working in San Francisco.  I find CPN a wonderful and effective organization, and have been happy to be involved.

 

Treasurer

Karen Allen, 4700 block, Warrington Avenue

I believe that in order for a community to be viable, its residents must play an active role in the life of that community.  I have been active in Cedar Park Neighbors and in the larger University Citysince moving to the neighborhood in 1982. In addition to my duties as CPN Treasurer, a position I have held since 1996, I have also worked on the CPN Budget, Zoning, and Bylaws Committees.    CPN is currently spearheading many worthwhile projects, such as the Baltimore Avenue Conversation and our continuing efforts in the beautification and reuse of Cedar Park.  I’m happy to have had the opportunity to serve on the CPN Board, and I look forward to continuing these and other efforts during the coming year

 

Mahari Bailey, 500 block, S. 52nd Street

I am a commercial real estate attorney admitted to practice in Pennsylvaniaand the District of Columbia.  I am a native of Philadelphia, graduated from Central High Schooland matriculated at HamptonUniversityobtaining a bachelors degree in Banking and Finance in 2004.  After acquiring my J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 2007, I practiced as a commercial real estate associate at the law firm of Drinker Biddle and Reath LLP in Philadelphia gaining valuable experience in various real estate matters.  In 2008, I formed a real estate investment group, including a collection of real estate investment companies with a focus on the revitalization of Philadelphia’s urban communities.  I own several businesses in Cedar Park and most recently, have initiated a revitalization project along the South 52nd Street commercial corridor.

 

Lisa Johanningsmeier, 900 block, St. Bernard Street

I have lived in the Cedar Park neighborhood since 1983. During the last 10 years I have served on the CPN board and Zoning Committee.  I hope to be able to help the Cedar Park community grow and change in a positive way that is inclusive of all community members.

 

Shawn Markovich, 900 block, Farragut Street

My family and I have lived inCedarParkfor 9 years. We moved to this community because we love the beautiful parks, great community spirit and wonderful homes that can be found in West Philly. My husband and I have 2 children, ages 8 and 6.  Currently I am on the Cedar Park Zoning committee, and I am also active at my children's school.  Previously I was on the parent involvement committee for 4 years at theParentInfantCenter.   I was a Vice President at a public records firm, where I managed a staff of approximately 60 employees and helped create new divisions to support the growth of the company. My husband and I have invested our time, energy, and resources inPhiladelphiaand for the past 9 years inWest Philadelphia. We have purchased properties with an eye toward health, beauty, and sustainability of our community.  The architecture, green spaces, and friends continue to inspire us and keep us rooted here.  It would be an honor to deepen my ties and give back even more through CPN board membership.  I am impressed that this volunteer organization has taken on complex issues such as zoning, park improvement, distressed properties, and education, all key topics that impact the growth and stability of our community.  I look forward to working with the existing board and the people they serve.

Marcus Presley, 4900 block, Pentridge Street

My wife and I moved to West Philadelphia in 2006 and bought a house in CedarParkin 2010. We have both fallen in love with this unique and vibrant community and are incredibly excited to be starting a family here.  I have worked for the last five years as a community organizer with the Women’s Revitalization Project, a nonprofit affordable housing developer in North Philadelphia, and I am excited by the idea of putting the community building skills that I have developed professionally towards working, with other committed residents, to improve our neighborhood.  I have experience in conducting public outreach campaigns and listening projects, running large community meetings and events and experience in building and fostering productive relationships among different organizations. In addition to my professional background, I am completing a Masters in Social Work from the Universityof Pennsylvaniawith a concentration in macro/community practice.  This and my work experience have given me skills in budgeting, grant-writing and organizational strategic planning.   My goal is to work with other dedicated people to make this an even more vibrant and wonderful community for all its residents.

 

Beverly Rouse, 4900 block, Cedar Avenue

As a member of the  Cedar Park community for 33 years I continue to be committed to addressing  the needs and perspectives of our diverse  community. I am a former school counselor and social worker who has worked with programs at Lincoln University and been a field instructor for social work students  from Temple University and the University of Pa. My community involvement includes serving as a block captain for the 4900 Block of Cedar Avenue, on the Board of the Sickle Cell Program at the University of Pa. Hospital, being involved with International Professional Exchange programs (IPX) and as a member of West Philadelphia High School Reunion committees.  I am currently sitting on the CPN Board and most recently served on the Board Development Retreat and the Cedar Park Centennial Celebration  Committees.  It has always been my feeling that our community has the potential to be a shining example of how intercultural and intergenerational needs can both be respectfully met.  I would love to continue serving on the Board for an additional term.

 

Mavil Spence, 5000 block, Catharine Street

I have resided in Cedar Park all of my life. I was born on the 5000 block ofCatharine St. My parents moved there in 1962 and I was born the next April. I moved out at age 27 to the 800 block ofS. 47th street.  I lived there until 1992, when my family and I were burnt out.   I moved back to Catharine St.and purchased a home in the 5100 block of Catharine in 1993.  Since 2009, I am back on the 5000 block of Catharine.   I have three children, Makeiah, Lauren and Zachary and one grandson Mason.  Makeiah is a graduate ofImmaculataUniversityand Lauren is finishing up atCommunity College of Philadelphia and then will attendLasalleUniversityto obtain her registered nursing degree. CPN already knows my son Zachary as he is a CPN scholarship recipient and attends Howard University School of Engineering in Washington DC.  I now work for the United States Postal Service. Previously for 10 years, I worked for the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia until 2009, when technology knocked me out of a job.  If I am elected to the board, I plan to work hard in this community to make it an even better community than it is now. I will do the best that I know how to make people want to move to Cedar Park.

 

Saba Tedla, 800 block, S. 48th Street

I moved toPhiladelphiain 2007 and have been a resident ofCedarParksince then.  My professional background is in Corporate Finance, in the technology industry, and I currently work for Bentley Systems inExton,PA.  Prior to joining Bentley, I worked at Lexmark International, a NASDAQ listed company and a worldwide distributor of printers.  Previously, I held positions in finance and operations with several technology companies in theWashingtonDCarea.  I am an active resident inCedarParkas well as a business owner.  I currently serve on the advisory board of LIFTPhiladelphia, a grass roots community organization with the mission to combat poverty and expand opportunity for all people.  I have been involved with fundraising initiatives, board recruitment and increasing LIFTPhiladelphia's visibility.  In addition to nonprofit work, I am a local business owner and continue to make critical investments on theBaltimore Ave.corridor.  I renovated a vacant commercial space and opened  theAksumrestaurant in 2011 and am currently developing a second business venture called Seeds Gallery, tentatively scheduled to open in Spring/Summer 2012 onBaltimore Ave.  I have strived to make a contribution by helping to improve the economic development of the community.  I consider myself a self-starter/ entrepreneur and plan to continue making tactical investments in the neighborhood.  I have the drive and passion to make a meaningful impact.  Participating on the CPN Board would provide me the opportunity to help confront some of the core challenges of the community beyond economic development.  I have a background in financial planning and my corporate work experience can be a great asset to the CPN board.  I have the commitment and leadership skills required to be an effective board member.

 

Ana Lisa Yoder, 4800 block, Beaumont Avenue

I live on Beaumont Avenuewith my husband Tony and 3½ year old son, Jai. CedarParkhas been my home for 15 years and I love the diversity, green space, and sense of community that I’ve found here.  Since my son will be entering kindergarten in the fall of 2014, I am also interested in efforts to improve local public schools.   I want my child to grow up in a place where there is a sense of connection between those who live near one another, and where neighbors care for green spaces and public areas.  I see serving on the CPN Board as an opportunity to contribute to that environment and ensure that as many as possible have a voice in what happens in our neighborhood.  I am a community impact manager for The Philadelphia Foundation, the DelawareValley’s largest community foundation.  In this capacity I support the Foundation’s grantmaking strategy by working with nonprofits through the application and evaluation processes.  My portfolio includes a diverse group of nonprofits in every field supported by the Foundation.  I also coordinate capacity building workshops for the nonprofit community and represent the Foundation on two grantmaking collaboratives: Communities for Public Education Reform and Hispanics in Philanthropy. I serve on the steering committee of the Delaware Valley Grantmakers’ Women and Girls Funders Affinity Group and in an advisory capacity for the Women’s Way Community Women’s Fund.  My previous experience includes nearly 20 years in a variety of nonprofit settings. Most recently I served as Director of one of Philadelphia’s leading organizations serving victims of domestic violence.  I have served on a number of boards and coalitions addressing gender-based violence. I hold a Master of Social Service degree from the Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research.

 

 Terms of Office:

Terms of office for Executive Officers are for 1 year each.  Terms of office for Board of Directors are for 2 years.

One week away from Cedar Park Neighbors Annual Meeting

Our Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, April 23rd -- one week from today.  Come to the Calvary Community Center on 48th & Baltimore.  Doors open at 6:30pm with the program starting at 7pm.  All members whose memberships are current may vote in the election. More information on nominees and meeting agenda will be posted here soon.  Stay tuned!

PS.  Usually, Cedar Park Neighbors meetings are held the third Monday of the month.  We're holding it on the fourth Monday this month because of the Easter holiday.

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GO WEST! Craft Fest this Saturday, April 14 at The Woodlands

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The time is drawing near - GO WEST! Craft Fest is this weekend! It's Saturday April 14, 11-5 at The Woodlands, 40th & Woodland, with a rain date of Sunday the 15th. If you're not familiar with the Woodlands, it's an amazing place, a historic cemetery, mansion and 54-acre green space, truly one of West Philly's sweetest spots. The Fest will be on the lawn near the entrance, set apart from the actual cemetery. Find unique, handcrafted wares like jewelry, ceramics, clothing, accessories, home accents, edibles, knitted & crocheted items, cards & paper goods, all-natural soaps & bodycare, terrariums, teas, toys and more, all made locally by fifty of Philly's finest artisans, many of whom live right here in the neighborhood.

Plus: live entertainment! Old-timey bluegrass favorites Sour Mash will perform in the afternoon (time TBA). Jay Sand of All Around This World will do an interactive kids' set of music from many nations at 1 pm. TinyCircus by Tangle will trapeze among the trees at 3 pm, and there will be random acts of juggling throughout the day.

Visitors may stroll the 54-acre grounds of the Woodlands and tour the 18th century neoclassical mansion, once home to botanist William Hamilton (grandson of Andrew Hamilton, the original "Philadelphia lawyer"). He collected and planted hundreds of trees on the Hamilton estate, and those that have survived the years are now some of our nation's oldest living specimens. The Woodlands is also the eternal resting place of over 30,000 Philadelphians, including such notable figures as architect Paul Philippe Cret (1876-1945), financier Francis Martin Drexel (1792-1863), artist Thomas Eakins (1844-1916), abolitionist Mary Grew (1813-96), and surgeon Samuel Gross (1805-84).

All the details can be found at gowestcraftfest.blogspot.com.

We hope to see you there on the 14th. Weather reports are promising so far, so here's hoping for a fine day of fun!

Holiday Basket Outreach 2011

By Victoria Iannotta, HolidayBasket Co-Chair On December 20th, 2011, volunteers from theCedarParkcommunity met at the Renewal Presbyterian Church on 47th andCedar Avenueto assemble holiday food baskets for distribution to the needy of our community. This was the culmination of an effort that has become an annual tradition inCedarPark.

Each year Cedar Park Neighbors works with organizations in our community to identify those for whom the gift of a holiday meal would be welcome. Thanks to donations from so many local residents and businesses, we were able to provide food baskets to 144 families; a total of 660 people. This is the largest number of people we have ever fed.

We’d like to thank all of the Cedar Park residents who contributed to the project and particularly acknowledge several organizations who supported us this year. The Renewal Presbyterian Church very graciously opened the church to us.  They immediately welcomed us, and members of their congregation even helped us pack the baskets. For the sixth year, Brown’s ShopRite on Oregon Avenue donated a $100 gift certificate that was used to help purchase the turkeys for the baskets. Fresh Grocer and Trader Joe’s supplied us with all of the bags that we needed to pack the food. The Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, OpenHeartChurch, and Wake Up Yoga also contributed generously in support of the program. We would like to express our appreciation to each of these organizations and to each individual whose gift of time or treasure made the outreach possible.

This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't get your copy?  Consider joining (or renewing) today!

Blasting Away at Crime: Let’s Be Safe

This article originally ran in the March 2012 newsletter.   The University City District (UCD) has begun a regular monthly email blast detailing crime patterns inUniversity City, and steps you can take to be safe. The ­following news was provided in the February 14th notice.

As was noted in January, there were a number of aggravated assaults reported in University City since the beginning of 2012. As always, UCD, the Philadelphia police department, the Penn and Drexel police departments and other institutional public safety divisions responded with a strategic and coordinated effort to address those and other crimes in the neighborhood. We’re pleased to report that arrests were made in 6 out of the 11 robberies with weapons that were reported since January 1st. Of course, this partnership of public safety departments will continue to rigorously review crime patterns and determine deployment strategies in a proactive effort to assure thatUniversity Cityremains an incredibly safe place to live, work and play.

From January 13th to February 12th, 2012, the following eighteen serious crimes were committed within the University City District boundaries: Aggravated assault, with weapon; Robbery, with weapon; and Robbery, no weapon. [Editor’s note: The e-mail ­contains charts, not printed here, that provide more detailed analysis.] What stands out are the dramatic across the board drops in crime over the last 30 days. We are encouraged by these drops which we believe are a result, in part, of the stepped up public safety efforts of the last month.

Despite the drop in these types of crimes, we ask you to continue to be vigilant and consider the following:

•           Please take precautions when walking at night. Keep your head up and scan your surroundings. Choose wide, well-lit streets and more populated walkways.

•           Do not leave valuables in your auto­mobile. If you must leave valuable items in your automobile while out and about, place items out of sight before reaching your destination or move them to an inconspicuous location.

•           Remember that anyone inUniversity Cityin need of a Walking Escort — someone to accompany them to transportation, a meeting, home, class, etc. — can call 215-898-9255 or 215-387-3942 between 10 a.m. and 3 a.m. and a UCD Ambassador will be dispatched. Encourage everyone you know to program the number in their mobile phone.

•           Join us on the third Thursday of every month for a community meeting led by the Philadelphia Police Department atCalvaryChurch, 48th andBaltimore Avenue, at 6 p.m. to discuss ongoing safety concerns in the neighborhood. This forum provides a chance for ­neighbors to interact and share concerns with both Philadelphia Police and UCD public safety personnel.

•           If you are interested in participating in a neighborhood town watch, please email Patty Bulack at pbulack@gmail.com.

We hope you find this information useful, and we welcome your feedback and ­questions. And, as always, we invite you to reach out to us with your concerns and feedback or if you want to receive the monthly e-mail. Don’t hesitate to contact  UCD Director of Com­mu­ni­ty and Business Services Steve Walsh at 215-243-0555 x239 or steve@universitycity.org

 

IN MEMORIAM

Ms. Jeanette Norman, committee person and neighbor, died on December 12th, 2011. Ms. Jeanette was a committed leader not only to her block of5100 Walton Avenue, but also advocated in the political arena of Philadelphia. She took great pride in rallying for various political leaders and issues, especially when it related to the city and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell. She worked to help prevent youth violence, and participated in many conferences. Ms. Jeanette called Hickman Temple AME her “church home.” She received honors in 2002, as an Unsung Hero, served as vice president and secretary of the Usher Board. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend and neighbor. Ms Jeanette Norman leaves a legacy of love and caring, and she will be missed.  

Mr. Jamar K. Ferrell, aka DJ Jamar, husband, friend, neighbor, businessman, mentor and awesome turntable technician, died Sunday, January 8th, 2012. Jamar was the regular DJ for the Cedar Park Fair and also at Elena’s Soul Showcase and Lounge. Jamar was not just a local DJ but a mentor to children and adults alike. He was always positive, and one of his strengths was that his positive attitude was contagious. Dan Raaf, aka Danophonic Dan, recalled that he met Jamar through the Cedar Park Fair several years ago. It rained that day, and he had a wedding to DJ for but allowed Jamar to use his porch for cover so the Fair could continue. Dan and Jamar conversed over digital DJing and began to partner at Elena’s Soul and for the Cedar Park Fair.  Cedar Park will not be the same without Jamar.

Mariposa Food Co-op is bigger, better

Mariposa Food Co-op New Location Opened SATURDAY, MARCH 17 at 10 a.m.! As of mid-February, Mariposa Food Co-op had raised $2.5 million. Just as impressive is the fact that $750,000 was raised from individuals — mostly members — and the incredible rate of member participation: 10% (over 100) of co-op members made a loan, 60% increased their member equity and 450 new members joined Mariposa in the past year alone. Countless member hours were committed to supporting the capital campaign.

“The amount of time and work that has gone into our capital campaign is astonishing,” says Chakka Reeves, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator. “We are lucky to have Leah Pillsbury, our talented and dedicated Capital Campaign Coordinator, as well as our expansion committee, many dedicated members, funders such as Cedar Park Neighbors and Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, lenders and many others, who believe in the importance of having natural and healthy food access inWest Philadelphia.”

Though $2.5 million will allow Mariposa to open their new store, there are still ways that they need support. “The Revolving Equity Fund is an ongoing effort to make sure that anyone who wants to be a member of Mariposa can join, regardless of their economic situation.” says Reeves. “The fund is a pool of equity that will be donated to members for whom a $200 investment would pose a financial hardship.”

Mariposa Food Co-op also encourages anyone who wants to be a member to ­contact the Mariposa main office at 215-729-2121 or go to www.mariposa.coop/join.

This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't get your copy?  Consider joining (or renewing) today!

Memories and Wisdom: Money Don’t Grow on Trees

A Welcome Submission from Dorothy Crowder, CPN member When we three girls asked our father for anything extra, he said, “Money don’t grow on trees.” We went to the movies for 15¢ after all chores were done (Saturday all day!) and saw funnies, scenes of the war, and two movies. We also traded comic books that cost 10¢ new. Sunday school and church collection was 25¢ combined. I was always into drawing, writing and needlework. Therefore, I needed a dime more.

My father worked in theChester,PennsylvaniaSunship Yard as a burner/welder. He also worked on the docks unloading fruits and vegetables, etc., to make extra money for the household and family members. We had an apple tree in the backyard. I learned very quickly that money don’t grow on trees!

Fondly,

Dorothy M. Crowder

Note: We invite members, at any time, to submit neighborhood news, reflections, or memories.

CPN Annual Meeting on April 23

The Cedar Park Neighbors annual meeting and Board of Directions election will take place on Monday, April 23, 2012 at 7pm at theCalvaryCommunity Center. All members whose memberships are current may vote in the election. More information on nominees and meeting agenda will be sent in a special communication before the meeting. Stay tuned!

This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't get your copy?  Consider joining (or renewing) today!

Woodlands Cemetery: Victim of Vandalism

By Jessica Baumert, Executive Director of Woodlands Cemetery This article originally appeared in the March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't get your copy?  Consider joining or renewing your membership today.

Woodlands Cemetery was the victim of vandalism on the evening of February 5th. Approximately 25 vandalized headstones, mostly dating from the late 19th to early 20th-century were discovered by one of their dedicated volunteers on the afternoon of February 6th. Headstones were toppled, many of them broken in the process. The total cost of damage is approximately $15,000. Anyone interested in donating towards the repair of these headstones can do so through the Woodlands website: www.woodlandsphila.org, or by mailing a check to the Woodlands at4000 Woodland Avenue,Philadelphia,PA19104. If you are interested in learning more about other ways you can help, please e-mail info@woodlandsphila.org.

The Woodlands is William Hamilton’s former Schuylkill River Estate, transformed in 1840 into a “rural” cemetery that is still an active cemetery today. It is the final resting place of many of the city and region’s accomplished individuals ­including artist Thomas Eakins, abolitionist Mary Grew, financier Francis Martin Drexel and surgeon Samuel Gross. The 54-acre grounds are open dawn to dusk for the enjoyment of the public.

Monica Allison Recognized for Changing Spaces, Places and Lives

Cedar Park Neighbors was thrilled to learn in early January the good news that our esteemed President, Monica Allison, was chosen as a recipient of the University of Pennsylvania 2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Involvement Recognition Award. The award is presented annually to several community members for their involvement and contributions to building community in one or more of the following ways:

• Promoting nonviolence

• Combining religious beliefs with positive social action

• Working toward racial equality and harmony

• Advocating for/working with disenfranchised people

The award was presented at a special Interfaith Program and Awards Commemoration on January 19th, 2012 in Houston Hall at the University of Pennsylvania. The program also included poetry and musical performances from the Penn community and an inspirational address from guest speaker Eboo Patel, Founder and President of Interfaith Youth Core. The following introduction was read about Monica at the awards presentation:

Peacemaker, advocate for the voiceless, logical, achiever, socially conscious, tolerant, tactful, unselfish, and adept are a few adjectives that describe Monica Allison. These are the qualities that have made it possible for Monica to change spaces, places, and lives in theWest Philadelphiaarea. Currently she serves as President of Cedar Park Neighbors (CPN), a community association that serves the West Philadelphia ­neighborhood ofCedarPark. As a member of CPN’s Park Improvement Committee, Monica has helped to transformCedarParkinto a warm and welcoming space that is currently home to the annual Cedar Park Jazz Series. Monica has been pivotal in making this series the much- anticipated event it is known for today. She has demonstrated extraordinary ­commitment to youth, anti-violence and addressing the needs of those returning to the community from the penal system. As a mother of a high school student and a college student herself, Monica takes great interest in the education of our youth. She runs her own tutoring and mentoring program for middle and high school students who are participating in cyber charter schools and is constantly involved in the ongoing work around the West Philadelphia High School.

Those of us who have worked with Monica can attest to the above qualities and accomplishments and many more. We are so proud of Monica and grateful for her leadership and service inCedarPark. Congratulations, Monica! This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't receive the newsletter?  Please join CPN today.

Membership Committee Update Where Does All That Money Go?

By Laurie Friedman As you are aware, CPN has taken on the initiative of updating our membership database during the past six months. We appreciate everyone’s patience with this transition and your ongoing ­support. While we have told you about all the work CPN does, you may be wondering where your membership dues actually go. CPN is a non-profit organization, and, to maintain that status, there are certain infrastructures that need to be in place through which our work is funneled. Money that is not specified to go towards one of our committees goes into the general fund and is used to pay for the following items: rent at Calvary, insurance, phone bills, copying, bank fees and more.

We thank everyone who has renewed their membership and contributed to CPN the past couple of months. We just have a few reminders for you.

Membership dues are now on a calendar year for everyone (January 1st - December 31st). Memberships paid before June 1st of a year will expire December 31st of that year. Memberships paid after June 1st will expire December 31 of the following year.

If your membership is not up to date by March 1st of 2012, we will regrettably remove your name from the membership list. Letters were sent to those who are not currently up-to-date. We hope to hear from you soon.

If you want to save trees and cut costs, by receiving an email copy instead of a hard copy of the newsletter, please email us at membership@cedarparkneighbors.org.

If you know a new homeowner or renter on your block, please send us their names and addresses, as they are entitled to a free CPN membership for one year. This information can be sent to membership@cedarparkneighbors.org

One last note: CPN board elections are scheduled for this spring. In order to vote, your membership must be up to date. Please email or call us if you are unsure of your status.

As always, please remember that by joining CPN, you are becoming an active participant in helping to shape your community. It’s a great way to keep abreast of what’s going on in our neighborhood and meet new friends. Membership dues, along with other fundraising activities, are critical to support the valuable work being done by CPN.

If you have any questions, contact us at membership@cedarparkneighbors.org.

Where the Money Goes

  • Awarding and supporting our scholarship recipients
  • Delivering holiday food baskets to neighbors
  • Convening community meetings for zoning ordinances & letting legislators know what the community supports
  • Maintaining the park for our enjoyment
  • Delivering news through our website, Facebook, email blasts and newsletter
  • Delivering information to residents about local day-care centers and schools
  • Supporting schools in our area
  • Convening Meet and Greet events for neighbors
  • Organizing the annual Cedar Park Fair
  • Summer Jazz Series
  • Supporting small businesses through projects such as the Baltimore Avenue Conversation
  • Representing you at community meetings

Celebrate Spring – TreePhilly Style

TreePhilly is a new tree-planting initiative led by Philadel­phia Parks & Recreation that helps property owners, businesses and neighborhood residents to im­prove their communities by planting and maintaining trees. TreePhilly continues Parks & Recreation’s ongoing commitment to greening Philadelphia and supports both the City’s Greenworks Phila­delphia plan and the regional Plant One Million campaign. Through TreePhilly’s Yard Tree Program,Philadelphiaresidents can receive a FREE tree! Residents can request one tree per address, to be planted on their private land. Pickup days will occur during the week of April 22nd to 28th throughout the City. You will be contacted in March with more information about dates and locations. This program is for private yard trees only (front, back, and side yards). If you are interested in a street tree or want to learn more about the Yard Tree Program, including tree species and size information, please visit www.treephilly.org.

This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't receive the newsletter?  Please join CPN today.

From Apple Storage to Apple Lofts: Zoning Committee Report

Maureen Tate, CPN Zoning Committee This article originally appeared in the March 2012 newsletter.  Didn't get your copy?  Consider joining or renewing your membership today.

The CPN Zoning Committee continues to respond to a variety of zoning issues inCedarPark. Some are local issues affecting one or two commercial or residential blocks. Other issues may have a greater impact on a larger portion of the community.

Most recently residents have become aware of an application before the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) regarding a proposed change in zoning from industrial to residential use for the long-vacant Apple Storage building at780 S. 52nd Street. Such a change would allow for the owner, Iron Stone, LLC, to convert the building into 112 loft apartments, with 92 parking spaces in a dedicated rear lot and 2,000 square feet of commercial space on the first floor.

When CPN became aware of this application, we invited the owner to make a presentation to both the CPN Zoning Committee and the CPN Board of Directors. We then hosted a community meeting for residents in the vicinity of Apple Storage to learn more about the project, distributing 200 flyers to nearby residences, businesses and institutions.

The meeting was held on December 15th atWaylandMemorialBaptistChurchat 52nd andBaltimore. Approximately 40 residents heard a presentation by the developer, Andrew Eisenstein, and had the opportunity to ask questions and submit written comments. After a review of the project and comments from the community meeting, the CPN Board decided to take a position in support of the project, recognizing its potential to reduce property vacancy and blight; support the revitalization of our two commercial corridors along Baltimore Avenue and 52nd Street; improve safety in an isolated segment of the community by bringing more eyes, ears and foot traffic to 52nd Street; and enable productive reuse of an outdated but historic industrial building.

A ZBA hearing was held on January 4th, 2012, at which CPN and the Baltimore Avenue Business Association entered letters of support. Another community group, the Community Achievement Association, entered signatures requesting a delay of the vote to accommodate another community meeting to inform more neighbors. The ZBA agreed to delay the vote, and subsequently two more community meetings were held at theArnettA.M.E.Churchon53rd Street, organized by the Community Achievement Association.

While residents at all meetings have raised concerns about the project’s impact on property taxes, a large number of residents welcome this investment of private dollars in our community to enable the reuse of a building that has a big footprint in the neighborhood but has outlived its industrial use. CPN participated in vigorous and sometimes heated debate about the merits of this project before launching its own petition campaign in support, believing that the voices of those supporting the project were not being heard. As this newsletter is being prepared the ZBA vote on the issue is pending and we will continue to keep members apprised of the status of Apple Lofts through our eblast and Facebook communications.

Other issues recently considered by the CPN Zoning Committee include:

5201 Baltimore Avenue -- CPN joined with local neighbors and Councilwoman Blackwell to oppose the legalization of an outdoor barbecue pit as an accessory to a trailer, for preparation and serving of food for take-out, with ­outdoor seating for under 30 people.

800 S. St. Bernard Street -- Zoning Committee members are facilitating conversations with neighbors and a new owner regarding his application to convert from single to three units with rear and side additions.

4726 Baltimore Avenue -- Upon notification of neighbors and hearing support and no objection, CPN supported the application of the owners of 4728 Baltimore Avenue to expand the Vientiane Restaurant to the first floor of the former Mariposa Food Coop space and allow for more table seating.

4610 Cedar Avenue -- CPN is monitoring preliminary discussions between neighbors and a local Philadelphia business about possible use of the space for an ice cream parlor.

4618 Cedar Avenue -- CPN supported local neighbors in objecting to new, enlarged, back-lit signage erected without appropriate review and permits.

The CPN Zoning Committee generally meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Members interested in serving on the committee should contact the committee at: contact@cedarparkneighbors.org.

 

President’s Message: What is Community?

By Monica Allison, CPN President What is the definition of a community? It is a group of people who live in proximity to and interact with one another. Our community begins in our homes, extends to our block and surrounding neighborhood and then expands to our city, state, nation and the world. How do we represent our community personally? Some of us keep our blocks clean, plant trees, watch out for the safety of our neighbors, pick up trash, help the unemployed find jobs, and fight for quality education. All are noble causes, because, without each of us, we cannot be a community. I love our community! I love the diversity of people and the diversity of talents and input. I love the mix of businesses and I am enthralled with the sense that we all find our place to plant seeds.

As some of you may know, I received the Penn 2012 Martin Luther King Community Involvement Recognition Award in January. Those of you who know me personally know I am not the recognition type of gal. But with February being Black History Month, it started me thinking about the meaning of that recognition and the person for which it was named. Dr. King said so much in his brief time on earth that we can all take to heart. He was profound in so many ways, and as time has moved forward his words become more relevant. One of my favorite quotes of Dr. King is this: “People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.” Here we are, right back to community!

Dr. King is definitely one of my heroes, if there is such a thing. He instilled in those of us who lived during that time the knowledge of ourselves and who we are inside, because that is who will emerge publicly. In relation to our community, one of the other quotes I try to live by is this: “One of the great liabilities of history is that all too many people fail to remain awake through great periods of social change. Every society has its protectors of status quo and its fraternities of the indifferent who are notorious for sleeping through revolutions. Today, our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant and to face the challenge of change.” May we not protect the status quo or become indifferent, but embrace the challenge of change.

In our last newsletter, I was happily recalling the Centennial Celebration of Cedar

Park, how much fun was had by all, and the wonderful music played by our annual DJ, DJ Jamar. In January, we were all saddened by the death of DJ Jamar Ferrell. Jamar was a mentor, a husband, a neighbor and a friend. He is and will be missed. We also lost one of our Committee people and neighbors, Ms. Jeanette Norman. Ms. Jeanette served on the CPN Board, 2004-2005 and was always out working for the community. She too is and will be missed.

Cedar Park’s annual holiday basket distribution occurred on Saturday, December 17th at Renewal Presbyterian Church and provided food for more than 600 people. On Sunday, March 25th, the Scholarship Fundraiser is being held at Dock Street for the 5th year. Come out and support this worthy cause! Through your donations and gifts, we awarded over $6,000 in scholarships last year. Let’s try to raise more so that we can give more. The pizza and beer are awesome. Thank you, Rosemary, for inviting us back.

We have a new business in the neighborhood, Thrive Fitness and Wellness, which is located in Calvary Church, at 48th Street and Baltimore Avenue. Owner Michael Munson lives in the neighborhood and has extended to our members a free trail of his Fitness Camps. They meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6:30 a.m. Go check it out!

Finally, as a community, we want to extend our donations and time to help The Woodlands. On February 5th, 2012, the cemetery was vandalized and the ­damage is approximately $15,000. This is one of the most beautiful places to go walking in West Philadelphia. You see deer, geese, hawks and a host of other wildlife. More information can be found on page 12 of the newsletter.

Don’t forget, we have switched to an annual membership renewal date. If you haven’t renewed your membership, you can do so on our website. Your membership must be paid in order to vote in the April elections. We have had great dialogue on our facebook page. Come and join us. The conversations have been lively and informative.

This article is reprinted from our March 2012 newsletter.

Cedar Park Neighbors, West Philadelphia