Philadelphia Prisons Commissioner Lou Giorla

The Mayfair Civic Association met for the first time last night since its September meeting. Vice President Mike Williams led the meeting with board members Suzann St. Marie, Pete McDermot, Shawn Murphy and Donny Smith also in attendance.

Two of the highlighted speakers were Lou Giorla, prisons commissioner; and Ian Litwin of the Philadelphia Planning Commission. Below you can see video of both, who also spoke at last month’s Upper Holmesburg Civic Association meeting. continue reading »

With a flick of a switch at last Sunday's holiday ceremony, Santa lit the newly trimmed tree gracing the intersection of Frankford and Cottman.

It’s not a big tree. It’s certainly not as big a tree as you might expect for its intended purpose–to be seen by anyone walking or driving around the intersection of Frankford and Cottman avenues; but it’s not a Charlie Brown Christmas tree, either.

On Sunday Nov. 22, around dusk, folks from Mayfair Business Association and members of the community — young and old alike — strung lights and affixed ornaments on the community’s holiday tree. Santa arrived after darkness had embraced the assembled audience; he flicked a switch, and the tree lit up, a bright star atop, and the people cheered. continue reading »