Mike Bobby, John Duffy and Steve Phillips keep watch on Fox Chase

They are the eyes and ears of the Fox Chase community. Since 1995 The Fox Chase Town Watch has patrolled the streets of Fox Chase, alerting police to incidents and making note of ongoing problems that need police attention. Steve Phillips, current president of the Watch, has been a member since 1995. Membership is open to residents 18 years and older.

Members receive training, but rule No. 1 is to remember as a member you are not a law enforcement officer. Phillips became involved after the death of Eddie Polec, “Witnessing the death of Ed Polec has been my motivation for the last 17  years. I said to myself, this will not happen again, and that is why I do this.” continue reading »

Captain Joseph Joseph F. Zaffino, Commanding Officer of the 7th District Police Department shakes hands with a representative of Target and accepts a check on behalf of the Captain of the 2nd District police department, Captain Michael McCarrick who was not able to attend tonight's festivities. In the background watching, is Community Relations Officer of the 7th District Officer Rich Simon.

Fox Chase Town Watch President Steve Phillips told NEast Philly Monday (you can catch the full story in Wednesday’s Metro newspaper) that the 2nd and 7th Districts were expecting about 2,000 people for Tuesday’s National Night Out event at Fox Chase Elementary. continue reading »

The Planet Aid donation box at Bleigh and Oxford avenues was set on fire over the weekend. Photo courtesy of Fox Chase Town Watch.

Fox Chase Town Watch President Steve Phillips sent us the above photo of a donation box in the area that was set on fire — a common occurrence recently. The box is located in the Rite Aid parking lot at 7418-32 Oxford Ave. continue reading »

Fox Chase Homeowners Association President Matt Braden

Nearly 40 people were on hand for last night’s meeting of the Fox Chase Homeowners Association and Town Watch meeting, and residents brought their lists of neighborhood concerns.

601 Rhawn St. The home at 601 Rhawn St. next to St. Cecilia’s Church has been for sale, and Councilman Brian O’Neill was at last night’s meeting to address rumors of what the buyers plan for their new home. O’Neill’s office has received letters stating the new owners have plans to convert the home to a Buddhist temple. Though O’Neill said he’s unsure of the owners’ intentions, he assured neighbors the property is not zoned for such use. continue reading »