piesack9-blog

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‘I Don’t Want My Child Taken Away From Me’: Lack Of Funding Forcing 45 Homeless Women Back Onto Streets

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Dozens of homeless women will soon be on the streets of Philadelphia as the shelter they’ve called home for sometime shuts its doors. Despite some city officials’ best efforts, there’s nothing they can do to keep the doors open.

For the last four months, Fernwood East has been home for dozens of women who would otherwise be out on the streets.

But come March 29, they’ll have to get out and figure out another place to rest their heads, due to a lack of funding.

“These moms is going to be outside,” resident Candace Valentine said. “I’m a living example of it. I’ve been homeless for three years. This is actually the first time I’ve been in a shelter.”

Forty-five women each have their own stories of how they ended up here. One resident is being tasked with finding housing for herself and her unborn child.

“Where am I going to go? I don’t have no family, I don’t want to have my baby at another shelter,” Talisha Walker said. “I don’t want my child taken away from me because I don’t have the proper living for my child.”

Philadelphia Soda Tax Helps Send Thousands Of Kids To Pre-K In Its First 2 Years

Most say a gentrified Philadelphia became too much to afford.

Fernwest West opened to men back in 2012, but once Philadelphia was hit by the opioid epidemic, shelters became overcrowded, leaving no beds for women.

That’s when a temporary emergency shelter opened for women, dubbed Fernwood East.

“This opioid crisis makes everything worse. I’m glad that we focused on it, because for a long time, the city kind of turned its head,” councilwoman Jannie Blackwell said.

Once the women found out their eviction date was March 29, they went to Blackwell for help.

In order to keep the doors open for three more months, the shelter needs $390,000.

“We need at least an extension, for all of us to get our housing benefits that have already been in the system, that we have been here trying to get housing,” Fernwood East resident Annawar Marlow said.

‘It Was Pretty Scary’: Hordes Of Vultures Taking Over South Jersey Town

The ladies are hoping to raise enough money to keep the doors open just a little while longer, but they say the ultimate goal is permanent housing.

“Where do you expect these ladies to go? Where do you expect for these mothers to go?” Valentine asked.

If you would like to help with funding for Fernwood East, contact the Office of Homeless Services at 215-686-4700.

Source: https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2019/03/08/i-dont-want-my-child-taken-away-from-me-lack-of-funding-forcing-45-homeless-women-back-onto-streets/

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Eagles bring back Sproles on one-year deal

Darren Sproles has returned to the Philadelphia Eagles after signing a one-year contract.

The 36-year-old running back considered retiring after an injury-riddled 2018 campaign in which he played only six games. 

But Sproles was prepared to give it another go if the "right team" called and that team turned out to be one he already knew well as he opted to return for a sixth season with the franchise.

"My heart is in Philly - that's where I want to end my career," Sproles said to the Eagles' website. "That team, the city is like a family.

"I really want to go out on top. That's what I really want to do. I can't wait to get back with the guys."

Sproles has established himself as one of the NFL's best-ever all-purpose backs and sits sixth on the league's career all-purpose yardage list thanks to his ability to rush, receive and return kickoffs and punts. 

He is unlikely to get a large amount of touches in 2019-20, but gives Philadelphia's explosive offense another option.

The Eagles gave Carson Wentz a four-year, $128million extension in June. The QB will have talented targets in Alshon Jeffery, DeSean Jackson and Zach Ertz to work with, as well as running back Jordan Howard in the backfield. 

Philadelphia appear to have a better arsenal than they had on last season's 9-7 team that finished second in the NFC East. 

They lost Super Bowl hero Nick Foles to the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason, so will have to bank on Wentz having a healthy year to go further than last season's loss to the New Orleans Saints in the divisional round.

Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/eagles-bring-back-sproles-one-142306286.html?src=rss

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Nearly 50 Percent Of Americans Feel Pressure To Overspend For Holidays: Study

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A new study has found that nearly half of Americans feel pressure to overspend during the holiday season this year.

Federal Government Warns People About Gift Card Scam Ahead Of Holidays

An annual study by Suntrust Banks found that the number has risen 3 percent from last year.

“We all want the holidays to be a time of happiness and relaxation, but the pressure to overspend robs people of the joy of the season and increases financial stress,” says Brian Ford, financial well-being executive at SunTrust.

Credit: SunTrust Banks

Officials suggest that setting a modest holiday budget can help ease stress around holiday gift giving.

Another tip is to create a savings account specifically designated for the holidays and to shop smartly for the best bargains.

New Keurig Machine Can Make Cocktails, Beer

“Money affects people in emotional ways, and we’ve found that those who have a better handle on their money are happier – in fact, 64 percent of Americans with high financial confidence say the holidays are their favorite time of year,” Ford adds.

The survey polled 2,500 Americans of different ages, incomes, and locations.

Source: https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2018/11/14/nearly-50-percent-of-americans-feel-pressure-to-overspend-for-holidays-study/

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10 People Shot Outside Deja Vu Nightclub In Allentown

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (CBS/AP) – At least 10 people were shot outside a bar in Allentown overnight. It was a chaotic scene outside Deja Vu Nightclub when shots were fired on the 300 block of West Hamilton Street around 2 a.m. Thursday.

Authorities say most of the victims had just left the nightclub or were standing on the sidewalk outside when the shots rang out. Witnesses said they saw several panicked people fleeing the scene on foot, and at least one car was spotted speeding away.

Police say all the victims were taken to area hospitals and are expected to recover.

The District Attorney’s Office says they believe the shooting may be related to gang violence. They believe there were several shooters at the scene, at least three.

“It appears that at least one individual was a target,” Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin and Allentown Police Chief Tony Alsleben said in a statement. “Although not confirmed, in our opinion based upon investigative information … it is more likely than not that the outcome of the investigation will reveal a connection to gang violence.”

Officials are working with witnesses to learn more about what led to the shooting.

No arrests have been made.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

Source: https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2019/06/20/deja-vu-nightclub-allentown-shooting/

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The Common, UCity’s New Mediterranean Restaurant, Is Now Open

News

Chef-owner Patrick Feury revamped the former Danlu space with a more casual vibe and locally sourced menu.

The Common

Despite mostly positive reviews, Patrick Feury’s Taiwanese-inspired Danlu didn’t last long. So the chef, long known for locally-sourced menus at his long-running Main Line spot Nectar, has opened The Common, a seasonally driven New American bar and restaurant with Mediterranean influences, in its place at 3601 Market Street in University City.

The 120-seat, bi-level space has been revamped to create a more casual vibe, with the addition of greenery, new lighting, communal tables, and chairs made from upcycled oil drums. There’s also a two-story-high mural by Philly artist Cesar Viveros on one wall. Feury’s partners in Nectar, Henry Chu, Kenny Huang, and Michael Wei co-own the concept, and Lucio Palazzo, whose resume includes stints at Zahav, James, Taqueria Feliz, and Russet, is executive chef.

The Common

The Common

The Common

In terms of the menu, the Common will serve locally sourced ingredients on a seasonal menu that includes house-made pastas, shareable entrees, and sandwiches, with lots of vegetarian and vegan options. They’ll also make their own charcuterie, cheeses, pickles, and vinegars, with breads baked by James Beard Award-nominated James Golper of Brooklyn’s Bien Cuit. Best of Philly-winning wine guy Tim Kweeder consulted on the beverage menu.

Hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 11 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m., with happy hour running from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Check out the Common’s opening menu here.

Source: https://www.phillymag.com/foobooz/2019/01/24/common-restaurant-university-city-philadelphia/

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Jefferson Health partnered with startup NeuroFlow for this mental health platform

Jefferson Health announced Tuesday morning that it has developed a new digital platform focused on mental health along with NeuroFlow, a healthcare technology startup.

The digital platform will facilitate health care management for patients in between traditional office visits. Physicians will be able to do a number of things remotely, like assign a survey to their patient, set a reminder or encourage mindfulness and meditation sessions.

The data collected is sent to the care team to review for outlier behavior or struggles with treatment, Jefferson Health said in a statement. The platform will be rolled out at 20 locations across the Jefferson Health enterprise, including at primary care, OBGYN and behavioral health facilities.

Jefferson Health said a growing concern for postpartum mothers’ mental health and a widespread scope of anxiety and depression spurred the partnership and platform development.

NeuroFlow, cofounded in 2016 by CEO Christopher Molaro and COO Adam Pardes, raised a few million over the last few years to scale up its team and test its original product, a cloud-based patient engagement platform that’s been used by over 450 individual mental health practitioners and hospital systems, according to the company. (It’s also #7 on Technical.ly Philly’s 2019 realLIST of Philly startups to watch.)

Molaro, who served in the U.S. Army for five years and spent a year in Iraq, told Technical.ly last year that the company’s been able to tap into the pool of resources for veteran entrepreneurs.

“Any time there’s a news report about suicides or someone suffering from depression, it tears at my heartstrings,” Molaro said. “Psychology is a field that hasn’t been substantially disrupted in a century, and people think of it as someone laying in a couch and talking. That’s not the way it needs to be.”

Stephen K. Klasko, president of Thomas Jefferson University and CEO of Jefferson Health, said integrating mental and physical health is “critical.”

“We can reinforce the vital link between physical and mental health and ensure patients are more engaged,” he said. “It will deliver better outcomes and reduce the administrative burden placed on our providers.”

-30- Source: https://technical.ly/philly/2019/07/09/jefferson-health-partnered-with-startup-neuroflow-for-this-mental-health-platform/

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BA/QA(BUSINESS ANALYST/QUALITY ANALYST) TRAINING & 100% JOB PLACEMENT (Philadelphia, PA)

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We offer detailed ,comprehensive and Job Oriented training in Business Analyst/Quality Analysis with Placement Assistance. Flexible timings on Weekdays/Weekends Professional guidance for resume preparation and interviews Counseling/One-on-one discussion with Trainer to clarify your doubts. Flexible timings for the training. Aggressive marketing by experienced placement team H1b and Green cards sponsorship for deserving candidates Training for Certifications and Reimbursement for Certifications on a need basis. Professional Training and training material. We are currently looking for Citizens/GC holders/OPT/CPT holders/ H1B We provide excellent benefits like

Competitive Salary or hourly rates. Health Insurance. Corporate training opportunities Job Placement Resume Preparation Discussion on Interview Questions Job Placement Support On Job Support

For more information please call 732 250 3906 QA Testing Course Content Introduction to Software Testing • What is Software Testing?

Software Development Life cycle • Requirements • Analysis • Design • Coding • Testing • Acceptance

SDLC Models • Agile • Waterfall model • Spiral model • V-Model

Testing-Methods • White Box Testing • Black Box testing • Gray Box testing

Types of Testing (Black Box Testing) • Build Verification Testing • Functional Testing • Integration Testing • Regression Testing • System Testing • Acceptance Testing • Smoke and Sanity Testing • Ad-hoc Testing • Exploratory Testing • Compatibility Testing • Disaster Recovery Resting • Load, Volume, Stress and Performance Testing

Testing Life Cycle / Quality Assurance Life Cycle / Software Testing Life Cycle • Requirements • System study • Test plan • Test Cases • Traceability Matrix • Test case execution • Defect tracking • Test Summary Report • User Acceptance Testing

Test Plan • Objective • Scope • Approach • Methodologies • Deliverables • Test environment • Schedule and Resources • Effort and estimation • Entry and Exit criteria • Templates • Risk • Assumption • Contingency Plan • References

Test Case • Test Case Design • How to write test cases • When to execute test cases

Checklists • How to create checklists • When to use checklists

Defect tracking • Defect life cycle • Severity, priority • Defect tracking Tool -- Quality Center, Bugzilla and Rational Clear Quest • Defect report • Defect Tracking Sheet • OK for recruiters to contact this job poster. • do NOT contact us with unsolicited services or offers

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Source: https://philadelphia.craigslist.org/sof/d/ba-qabusiness-analyst-quality/6706014198.html

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Eagles among teams “likely to be in” on C.J. Mosley

UPDATE: C.J. Mosley is reportedly signing a mega contract with the New York Jets worth $17 million per year.

The Philadelphia Eagles are among the teams “likely to be in” on free agent linebacker C.J. Mosley, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. The other suitors said to be in the mix for the former Baltimore Ravens linebacker include the New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Redskins.

Mosley doesn’t seem like a realistic free agent target for the Eagles. Sure, Philly has a need for a starting linebacker with Jordan Hicks potentially leaving in free agency. But it’s hard to see them paying big bucks for the top linebacker on the market. Spotrac projects Mosley’s next contract to be worth $10.6 million (!) annually, which is top five linebacker money.

It is worth noting that Mosley does have some connections to the organization. Joe Douglas was still with the Ravens when Baltimore selected him No. 17 overall in the 2014 NFL Draft. Mosley was also rumored to be one of the six players the Eagles really wanted with their first-round selection that year.

Still, Mosley likely won’t be ending up in Philly. The expectation here is that the Eagles will be going a more economical route to address their potential need at linebacker.

Poll

Should the Eagles sign C.J. Mosley?

62%

Yes

(3381 votes)

37%

No

(2037 votes)

5418 votes total Vote Now

Source: https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2019/3/11/18260128/eagles-free-agency-rumors-cj-mosley-philadelphia-nfl-news-linebacker-ravens-jets-lions-colts-redskin

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Over $1 Billion Worth Of Cocaine Seized At Philadelphia Port, U.S. Attorney’s Office Says

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — One of the largest cocaine busts in United States history happened Tuesday in Philadelphia. Federal authorities continue to comb a cargo ship at Packer Avenue Marine Terminal in South Philadelphia.

So far, they’ve seized 16.5 tons of cocaine — 33,000 pounds — which has a street value of more than $1 billion, the U.S. Attorney’s Office says. Investigators believe there is still a significant amount of cocaine remaining on the ship.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, 16.5 tons of cocaine was confiscated from seven shipping containers, making it the largest drug seizure in the history of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

Two people were arrested and federally charged. According to the criminal complaint, Ivan Durasevic, the ship’s second mate, and Fonofaavae Tiasaga were arrested in the bust.

Before coming to Philadelphia, the Mediterranean Shipping Company ship was previously in the Bahamas, Panama, Peru and Colombia. The ship was on its way to the Netherlands.

According to the complaint, Durasevic told authorities the cocaine was loaded onto the ship after leaving Peru. Tiasaga told authorities that six boats approached the MSC Gayane during the night, while Durasevic operated a crane to bring on bags of cocaine onboard.

The ship was later approached by another eight boats, where more cocaine was loaded onto the ship, according to the complaint. Tiasaga told authorities his role was to help in moving the drugs below decks.

“A U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations-led multi-agency inspection of shipping containers aboard the MSC Gayane resulted in a substantial cocaine seizure in Philadelphia on June 17, 2019. Authorities continue to process the seized cocaine and continue its inspection aboard the vessel in the Port of Philadelphia. Authorities have made two arrests, and will release a final tally and additional details when this operation concludes,” the U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a statement.

Chopper 3 caught the action from above as investigators searched the ship.

Authorities say agents boarded the vessel, identified the container in question, inspected it and removed it from the vessel. It was then taken to an undisclosed federal facility for analysis.

Authorities are weighing the cocaine at the location and looking for other evidence, including DNA. Authorities say there may be a significant amount of cocaine left on the vessel, on top of the 16.5 tons.

The length of the investigation could continue long enough that the vessel will have to be moved to make way for other incoming ship traffic.

U.S. Attorney William McSwain was personally overseeing parts of the investigation and drug seizure.

“This is one of the largest drug seizures in United States history. This amount of cocaine could kill millions – MILLIONS – of people,” McSwain tweeted.

The Mediterranean Shipping Company said in a statement they are taking “this matter very seriously.”

“Mediterranean Shipping Company is aware of reports of an incident at the Port of Philadelphia in which U.S. authorities made a seizure of illicit cargo. MSC takes this matter very seriously and is grateful to the authorities for identifying any suspected abuse of its services,” the statement reads. “Unfortunately, shipping and logistics companies are from time to time affected by trafficking problems. MSC has a longstanding history of cooperating with U.S. federal law enforcement agencies to help disrupt illegal narcotics trafficking and works closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).”

Mayor Jim Kenney’s office said in a statement that Kenney is “thankful for the hard work” of local and federal authorities.

“Every ounce of drugs we keep off the streets is helping to keep Philadelphians safe and alive. Mayor Kenney is thankful for the hard work of the Philadelphia Police Department, FBI, ICE, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard,” the mayor’s office said in a statement.

The suspects’ identities have not been released. A news conference is expected in the coming days.

CBS3’s Joe Holden and Kimberly Davis contributed to this report.

Source: https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2019/06/18/15000-kilos-of-cocaine-confiscated-during-drug-bust-at-philadelphia-port-federal-sources-say/

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Old-Ass Building: Harris Building

2121 Market Street

Photo by Michael Bixler

Now pretty much only known as the Trader Joe's Building, this old bastard has managed to endure a lot of change all around it. Read all about it at the Hidden City Daily!

Source: http://philaphilia.blogspot.com/2018/04/old-ass-building-harris-building.html

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Notes on Music ♫

The eight Tony Awards-winning musical œOnce”, book by Enda Walsh, music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, is at the Arden Theatre now through Oct. 21, an œIrish-kissed” hit that took Broadway by storm, here staged by Producing Artistic Director Terrence J. Nolan with a cast of twelve including such local favorites as Greg Wood, Scott Greer, Alex Bechtel and Charlie DelMarcelle, along with Ken Allen Neely as a Dublin street musician and Katherine Fried whose love for his songs permits him to soar and dream, and œthe power of music to connect all of us”. 40 N. 2nd St. 215-922- 1122 for tickets and information on Post-Show discussions.

Mary Shelley™s œFrankenstein”, adapted and directed by Alex Burns in a Quintessence Theatre production, opens on Sept. 26 featuring Kevin Burgen, Jake Blouch, Lee Cortopassi, Leah Gabriel, Hannah Wolff and Michael Zlabinger, in a 200th anniversary tribute to Shelley™s tale of œhumanity™s obsession with knowledge and of the unintended consequences of scientific innovation”. Through Oct. 21 at the Sedgwick Theater, 7137 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. 215-987-4450.

Liebesfreud chamber group opens its new 13th season of free Last Friday concerts on Sept. 28 at 5:30 p.m. offering an hour-long performance of Mozart™s String Quartet in B flat, K. 458 (œThe Hunt”), and Mendelssohn™s String Quartet in A minor, op. 13. Geoffrey Michaels, Philip Kates, violins; David Giles, viola; Charles Forbes, cello. 251 S. 18th St. 215-545-4302.

Celebrated jazz pianist Fred Hersch, a twelve-time Grammy Awards nominee, appears in a solo concert on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m., performing works from throughout his illustrious career and from his more than three dozen albums. This Benefit for St. Stephen™s Episcopal Church Arts Programming is the first in a series of four such events, curated by Mr. Hersch and dubbed œThe Future of Jazz Piano Series”. St. Stephen™s is an historic parish founded in 1823 and is known for its strong commitment to the arts. 19 S. 10th St. Tickets at 215-922-3807.

The Philly POPS open their 40th season on Sept. 28 with Leslie Odom, Jr., local dynamo who starred on Broadway in the musical smash œHamilton”, earning a Tony and a Grammy, and here performs with Maestro Michael Krajewski in a lush American Songbook program that he feels Nat King Cole would perform today including” Autumn Leaves”, œUnforgettable”, œMona Lisa” and œWithout You”, working with his guitarist Steven Walker. Sept. 28 at 8 p.m., Sept. 29 and 30 at 3 p.m. Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center, Broad and Spruce. 215-893-1999.

The Friends of the Wanamaker Organ™s big Fall Concert is set for Sept. 29 at 8 p.m., dedicated to the memory of beloved Philadelphia organ virtuoso, long-time member of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Wanamaker asst. organist and Friends board member Michael Stairs, performed by Peter Richard Conte and Joshua Stafford and including such Stairs favorite composers: Franck, Dvorak, Humperdinck, Sir Arthur Sullivan, Sowerby, Lemare as well as Disney hits. Flugelhornist Andrew Ennis will offer a cameo. In the hushed main floor of Macy™s, 1300 Market St. 215-241-9000, ex. 2408.

The Philadelphia Orchestra is in Verizon Hall on Sept. 29 at 8 p.m. with Maestro Yannick Nezet-Seguin on the podium for Dvorak™s œOthello” Overture, Rachmaninoff™s Symphonic Dances, and with guest soloist Lisa Batiashvili, Tchaikovsky™s Violin Concerto. Broad and Spruce, 215-893-1999.

The annual free Puerto Rican Day Parade will turn Sept. 30 into a massive and colorful event of music, dancing and floats as they march from their starting point at 16th and The Parkway. 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Further information at 215 627 3100.

Inis Nua Theatre presents, all the way from Scotland, David Greig™s œThe Monster in the Hall” with music by Nigel Dunn and Stephen Wright, directed by Claire Moyer, a dark tale of a daughter and father pretending to be fine, a random Norwegian woman in the closet, and a backup band to wipe away the gloom. With Eleni Delopoulos, Doug Durlacher, Jamison Foreman and Chris Park. Oct. 3 - 21 at the Louis Bluver Theatre at the Drake, 302 S. Hicks St. near 15th and Spruce. 215-454-9776.

The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts opens its new season on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m. with œHumans”, performed by Circa, ten highly-skilled Australian circus performers and acrobats on a bare stage, illustrating” the expressive possibilities of the human body at its extremes”. Repeated on Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. 3680 Walnut St. 215-898- 3900.

œLove Never Dies”, Andrew Lloyd Webber™s sequel to œThe Phantom of the Opera”, gets its local premiere on Oct. 2 at the Academy of Music for eight performances including matinees through Oct. 7 in a revised working of the original 2011 Australian production. Broad and Locust. 215-790-5800.

Curtis-trained pianist Hanchien Lee and her Philadelphia Orchestra violist husband Meng Wang make their first-ever local joint appearance on Oct. 3 at 12:30 p.m. in an intriguing hour-long recital: Schubert™s Sonata in D Major D 384; Bruch™s Romance; and Brahms™ Sonata in E flat major, opus 120, no. 2. Free but with a goodwill donation always welcome. Church of the Holy Trinity, 19th and Walnut on Rittenhouse Square. 215-567-1267.

Source: http://ucreview.com/notes-on-music-p7973-86.htm

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Eagles Get Rocked At Home By The Vikings, 23-21

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By: Joseph Santoliquito

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Complacency can take on many forms. The Eagles’ contentment has not only gripped the Eagles, but it seems their fan base, after winning the first Super Bowl in franchise history last season.

There just seems to be one important fact that the Eagles and their fans have seemed to forget—the NFL didn’t stop playing games after the Eagles won.

The NFL didn’t shut down. Though, it seems, the Eagles have.

At least the Eagles did in the first half on Sunday, dropping to 2-3 after losing to the Minnesota Vikings, 23-21.

The Eagles looked out of sync offensively and defensively in the first half—creating a huge hole to dig out of. By the time the Eagles got the ball for their second drive, they had been out-gained 96 yards of total offense to minus-12. It appeared to be a portent of things to come.

They went three-and-out on three of their first five drives. On the other two drives, one resulted in a Jake Elliott 30-yard field goal, thanks to a 48-yard reception by Shelton Gibson, and on the other end when Linval Joseph took a fumble 64 yards for a touchdown and a 10-3 lead with 4:12 left in the first half.

If it wasn’t dropped passes, it was faulty blocking. Lane Johnson got beat—and beat badly—by Vikings’ defensive end Stephen Weatherly, whose inside route collapsed the pocket from the edge and slammed right into Wentz.

Eagles Fan Willing To Give Titans WR Corey Davis His 1st Touchdown Ball Back 

The ball popped free from Wentz’s hands and right into the hands of Joseph, who appeared to need an oxygen mask as he went down the sideline untouched for a go-ahead score.

The Eagles’ first-half woes were compounded by defensive tackle Michael Bennett’s low tackle on Cousins with :36 left. Bennett’s 9-yard sack was wiped out by a personal foul call, and the half-the-distance penalty placed the ball on the Eagles’ 11. Two plays later, Cousins hit Adam Thielen with a 3-yard scoring play and a Vikings’ commanding 17-3 halftime lead.

On their first five offensive drives, the Vikings reached the red zone four times. The first half could have been far worse if not for two missed Dan Bailey field goal attempts.

By halftime, the Eagles had been out-gained 208-91, with the Vikings churning out 13 first downs to the Eagles’ four. Wentz was 7 of 11 for 89 yards in the half, and sacked twice for minus-20 yards. The Eagles were only able to muster 22 yards rushing. Wentz finished completing 24 of 35 for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Wentz was also sacked three times for minus-28 yards.

The Eagles seemed to get themselves right on the first drive of the second half. But more mistakes cost them. Running back Jay Ajayi fumbled the ball away at the Minnesota 6 on the Eagles’ first drive in the second half. The Eagles lead the NFL with 13 fumbles, and lost 7 of them.

When Dan Bailey nailed a 52-yard field goal to give the Vikings a 23-14 lead with 2:47 left, Lincoln Financial Field began thinning out.

The Good

Linebacker Nigel Bradham’s fumble recovery at the Vikings’ 30 with 10:03 left to play. The Eagles, however, did nothing with the turnover.

Receiver Alshon Jeffery’s 8-yard reception on fourth-and-one at the Vikings’ 20 with 12:49 to play. The play set up the Eagles’ first TD, when Wentz hit Wendell Smallwood with a 12-yard TD pass.

Cornerback Jalen Mills batted down a pass on third-and-three at the Eagles’ 19 with 5:06 left in the first quarter. It forced the Vikings to a 37-yard Dan Bailey field goal with 5:02 left in the first. Mills later came through by breaking up a few passes midway through the third quarter, and the Vikings threatening to blow the game wide open.

Defensive end Brandon Graham beating Minnesota tackle Rashod Hill for his first sack of the season, a three-yard sack at the Vikings’ 17. Graham later took down Roc Thomas for a 2-yard loss at the Eagles 4, helping forcing a third-quarter field goal.

Wide receiver Shelton Gibson’s nice mid-air adjustment on a 48-yard reception at the Vikings’ 19. The Eagles had to settle for a 30-yard Jake Elliott field goal with 12:27 left in the half.

Cornerback Ronald Darby’s tackle on Roc Thomas for a 1-yard loss at the Eagles’ 27 in the second quarter.

Running back Wendell Smallwood’s 23-yard, third-down reception for the Eagles’ first third-down conversion of the game. It came on a third-and-seven at the Eagles’ 30 with 12:59 left in the third quarter. Smallwood later hauled in a 12-yard TD pass from Wentz with 12:05 to play. Smallwood later stretched out for a 2-point conversion to make it 20-14.

The Bad

Quarterback Carson Wentz 13-yard intentional grounding penalty with 9:23 left at the Vikings’ 40.

Linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill losing Vikings’ tight end Kyle Rudolph for a 17-yard gain on a third-and-one with 5:09 left. It set up Bailey’s 52-yard clinching field goal.

Left tackle Jason Peters’ false start with 3:26 left in the half.

The Eagles’ vaunted pass rush in the first half was feeble. They couldn’t get to Cousins, who carved up the Eagles for 150 yards on 20 of 24 completions.

The Ugly

Right tackle Lane Johnson getting beat badly by Stephen Weatherly on an inside rush that knocked the ball loose from Wentz. Linval Joseph was there to pluck the ball from the air and rumble 64 yards for a touchdown and 10-3 Vikings’ lead with 4:12 left in the half.

Running back Jay Ajayi fumbling the ball at the Minnesota 6 on the Eagles’ first drive in the second half.

Defensive tackle Michael Bennett’s low tackle on Kirk Cousins with :36 left in the half. The 9-yard sack was wiped out by a personal foul call on Bennett, and the half-the-distance penalty placed the ball on the Eagles’ 11. Two plays later, Cousins hit Adam Thielen with a 3-yard scoring play and a Vikings’ commanding 17-3 halftime lead.

Mills getting torched by Adam Thielen for a 68-yard reception on the Vikings’ first play of the second half. The play came right after the Vikings recovered Ajayi’s fumble at the Minnesota five.

Left guard Isaac Seumalo getting blown off the ball on the Eagles first play.

Doug Pederson’s choice to toss to Josh Adams on the Eagles’ second drive on third-and-one from the Eagles’ 34 with 3:01 left in the first quarter.

Smallwood missing a pass from Wentz on third-and-three at the Minnesota 12 with 12:27 left in the half.

Source: https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2018/10/07/eagles-get-rocked-home-vikings-23-21/

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A Philly nightlife guide for nondrinkers

America has a well-documented culture of drinking to get drunk. Many social events in Philadelphia — most social events in Philadelphia? — are tailored to the imbiber. Museums have “adult nights” featuring cocktails with artsy twists; improv shows encourage bringing wine boxes and six-packs; dog parks transform into beer gardens. Even water ice isn’t safe from the tipsy treatment.

When you’re someone who genuinely enjoys drinking and don’t have a difficult relationship with alcohol, that’s great. However, if you’re not into boozing, you may feel ignored. All those nightlife listicles, entertainment guides and event promotions are suddenly much less useful.

But some local businesses have inclusive nightlife down — and several know how to cater to both the nondrinkers and drinkers at the same time.

Here are some of our top picks for Philly’s non-drinking crowd.

(Have suggestions? Send your recommendations to monica@billypenn.com)

Guess what you’ve been saving all of this time that you haven’t been floundering on watered-down vodka concoctions? Money.

Splurge on a season pass at Opera Philadelphia, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Arden Theatre, Walnut Street Theatre or The Wilma Theater, which have established a reputation for making audiences clap from curtain rise to drop with their impressive selections of performers, speakers, musicals, events and plays.

Want to watch something edgier and support local talent? Try becoming a groupie for some of these companies:

Tongue & Groove Spontaneous Theater

Orbiter 3

Theatre Exile

New Freedom Theatre

La Fábrica

ReVamp Collective

Raw Street Productions

InterAct Theatre Company

Lantern Theater Company

Curio Theatre Company

11th Hour Theatre Company

Iron Age Theatre

Almanac Dance Circus Theatre

1812 Productions

Kaleidoscope Cultural Arts Collective

Arden Theatre Company

Azuka Theatre

The Bearded Ladies Cabaret

Rev up your movie night with a film that pushes the limits of genre and technical cinematic craft at PhilaMOCA, an avant-garde foreign film at Lightbox Film Center, a throwback with some trivia at Prince Theater, a movie under the stars at Clark Park and a time-warp along with Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon at the Ritz at the Bourse.

Once you’re through attending each and every one of these motion picture experiences, don’t forget to follow event listings at your closest museum or college campus (they frequently offer movie screenings open to the public followed by a discussion).

Bee-boo-beep. There are several spots in Philly ideal for game fanatics, whether they’re into booze or not.

Barcade, the forthcoming Thirsty Dice, Dave & Buster’s and Key-Stone Mini-Golf are a few great options. Then there also axe throwing, escape rooms, murder mysteries, bouldering, quizzo nights, ping-pong, indoor golf simulators and trampoline parks — all epic ways to bust boredom.

Don’t feel like getting active? Consider supporting local sports teams that don’t get enough love, like the Philadelphia Union, the Liberty Belles or the CHIKARA wrestlers.

Want to impress your friends with fierce flambéing or badass baking? Learn from the pros before you invite them over for a fancy adult dinner party by scheduling a couple of courses at La Cucina at the Market, COOK, Greengrow Community Kitchen, The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College or the Culinary Literacy Center.

Got time to spare? South Bowl, North Bowl and Lucky Strike all have late-night hours on the weekends (until 2 a.m.) and late-night noms to munch on while waiting for your turn at the lane.

For those of you who aren’t afraid of falling, rollerblading or ice skating — depending on the season — at the BlueCross RiverRink is an awesome way to spend the night gliding along the Delaware to upbeat tunes. And if you get tired, ice cream or hot chocolate on the boardwalk can pep you right back to life.

Source: https://billypenn.com/2018/09/28/a-philly-nightlife-guide-for-nondrinkers/

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Thirteen days of Washington’s training camp are open to the public

Getty Images

Washington fans will have many opportunities to see the team’s players in action during training camp later this summer.

The team will open up their practice facility to the public on 13 dates from July 25 to August 11. On nine of those days, the practice will run from 9:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and the team will reconvene on the field for walkthroughs in the afternoon that will also be open to the public.

As a result, there will be 22 total practice sessions for fans to watch the players go through their paces. Attendance to all of the sessions is free.

We’ve been keeping track of all the open practices around the league and Washington falls behind Dallas in the total number of days they’ll be open to the public. Their NFC East rivals in Philadelphia are on the other end of the spectrum with one open practice and the Raiders are the only team with no practices open to the public.

Source: https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/07/09/thirteen-days-of-washington-training-camp-are-open-to-the-public/

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Alshon Jeffery provides instant 'spark' to Eagles offense

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- After his first catch in nearly eight months -- a tough, 31-yarder down the left sideline on third down early in the second quarter -- Alshon Jeffery bent over on the sideline, hands on knees.

He moved over to the bench for a spell before willing himself up and back onto the field, only to double over again, his fatigue forcing him back to the sideline.

He had been battling a virus this week that forced him to miss two days of practice -- not exactly an ideal re-entry after a long layoff following offseason rotator cuff surgery. Jeffery pushed through it, though, and ended up having a big day in a 26-23 overtime loss to the Tennessee Titans, reaffirming his value to the offense in the process. He finished with eight catches for 105 yards and a touchdown, going over 100 receiving yards for the first time in an Eagles uniform.

"It was great to have Alshon back out there," quarterback Carson Wentz said. "A guy that can make contested catches, can make plays for you, can give the offense a spark. You saw that out there [Sunday]. We still just came up short, though."

Everything you need this week: • Scores, highlights and more » • Full schedule » | Full standings » • Weekly stats leaders » • Injuries tracker: Who's in, out » More NFL coverage »

Wentz had a rough day at the office. His offensive line struggled against Tennessee's pass rush, and especially against the blitz. He absorbed 11 hits, four sacks and ended up twisted and on his back way more than coach Doug Pederson could have felt comfortable with. What he did have going for him was an extra security blanket in the passing game.

That was evident on the 31-yarder, and then later on a 12-play, 75-yard drive in the third quarter. He found Jeffery for a 13-yard gain on third-and-6, and then for a 16-yard touchdown in the right corner of the end zone five plays later. Wentz lofted one up, and Jeffery leaped and muscled it in with a defender draped on his back. It was quintessential Jeffery, and the type of dynamic the Eagles were missing during the first three games of the season.

Jeffery came through again in overtime with a 14-yard catch and run that helped set up a field goal.

Alshon Jeffery caught eight passes for 105 yards and a touchdown against the Titans. AP Photo/Mark Zaleski

"He's a premier player. You see what he did off the rip, just coming into our game and the plays he made," running back Jay Ajayi said. "The presence he is on the outside, in the red zone. He's a special guy and we're definitely better with him on the field."

The band, as Pederson said recently, is slowly getting back together. The Eagles' offense was missing running backs Corey Clement (quad) and Darren Sproles (hamstring) on Sunday, but they should be on the field before long. With Jeffery and Ajayi (back fracture) both welcomed back into the fray Sunday, the offense that the Eagles originally envisioned is getting closer to becoming a reality.

That's good news for Wentz, who is coming off a serious multi-ligament knee injury. He has an obvious rapport with tight end Zach Ertz -- those two connected for 10 catches for 112 yards -- and rekindled his connection with the recently re-signed Jordan Matthews, hitting him for a 56-yard touchdown Sunday.

Now he has his top wideout in Jeffery back, which should mean good things for the 2-2 Eagles moving forward. They'll need it with a desperate Minnesota Vikings team on deck.

Source: http://www.espn.com/blog/philadelphia-eagles/post/_/id/26079/alshon-jeffery-provides-instant-spark-to-eagles-offense

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Open Thread: Which spaces should we make public?

Last week Reading Terminal Market announced that a block of Filbert Street, just outside the market, would be turned into public space.

The block will see dining-friendly streets, pop-up retail kiosks, and art installations. It will become a temporary public space, still open to cars, but shut off during special and seasonal events.

Even when the street is being used by cars, the wider sidewalks and other features of the plan ensure that it will be more pedestrian-friendly.

The project was inspired by other public spaces in the city, including Spruce Street Harbor Park and Dilworth Park.

And it got us thinking: What other areas of the city should be reconstructed as temporary or permanent public spaces? Is there a side street that you’d like to see shut down and made pedestrian-only in certain times of the year? Is there a large area (vacant or not) that you think would really benefit from a public space?

Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://philly.curbed.com/2019/5/22/18635257/open-thread-public-space-plaza-retail-market-reading

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The Linc - PFF names Alshon Jeffery as the Eagles’ most improved player from 2018

Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles links ...

Each NFL team’s most improved player - PFF Alshon Jeffery, Wide receiver: This one is more a factor of no one else on the Eagles taking much of a step forward. A lot went right for the Eagles to win the Super Bowl and unfortunately this past year a lot went wrong. Jeffery’s big deal was not one of those things though, as he hauled in 71.7 percent of his targets compared to 52.7 percent a year ago.

Eagles might be interested in trading for John Ross - BGN The Eagles had an official meeting with Ross at the NFL Combine, they attended his pro day, they put him through a private workout, and they brought him to Philadelphia for one of their top 30 prospects visits. In addition to all of this, there was a rumor that Ross was one of the five players the Eagles were targeting with the No. 14 overall pick. Ross was also one of the eight receiver prospects that the Eagles told Wentz to watch and give feedback on. In other words, the Eagles have done their homework on Ross.

The Kist & Solak Show #81: NFL Combine Preview Extravaganza - BGN Radio Michael Kist and Benjamin Solak get you prepared for the NFL Combine by highlighting all of the important parts of the process and who has the most to gain/lose! PLUS more news on the Timmy Jernigan front! Powered by SB Nation and Bleeding Green Nation.

Clearing up Timmy Jernigan’s contract situation - PhillyVoice Jernigan would count toward the compensatory pick formula, because the guarantees were removed, and the option was added. (In other words, they would be choosing not to exercise an option, as opposed to releasing him, the latter of which would negate his inclusion in the comp pick formula.)

Let the Rumors Begin - Iggles Blitz Howie Roseman should talk to the Bengals. See what they are asking for Ross. If you could pair Ross with Alshon Jeffery, Nelson Agholor, Mack Hollins and a rookie, that could be a good group. You can’t count on Ross as a sure thing, but he’s young enough and talented enough to take a chance on. If the price is right. I’m not sure what a fair trade would be, but I would go low on Ross just because of the injury concern. He could stay healthy for the next five years or struggle to get on the field at all. You can’t overpay for a guy like that, fast or not.

Le’Veon Bell flirts with the Eagles, but is that potential match realistic? - ESPN However, it would be premature to rule the Eagles out altogether. Their interest level would likely spike if those projections do not hold up. We saw such a situation play out with Alshon Jeffery during the 2017 offseason. Philly wasn’t expecting to be in play for Jeffery, but pounced and signed him to a one-year, $9.5 million deal once Jeffery determined the best course of action was to take a “prove-it” contract, which he parlayed into a hefty extension by year’s end. It could be that Bell doesn’t like the type of offers that come his way when free agency opens in a couple weeks. If that’s the case, a run for the Lombardi Trophy with the Steelers’ intrastate counterpart might go from intriguing to realistic.

Doubt Jason Peters at your own peril - NBCSP This time is different, They will tell you. Peters is 37 and his body will betray him sooner rather than later. Though more than serviceable last season, it was the first in which he was healthy and missed the Pro Bowl since 2007 — healthy being a relative term, seeing as he was in and out of the lineup all year. And the cap-strapped Eagles can save $10.5 million via Peters’ departure, so these are all things a fiscally responsible organization should probably consider. The day will come soon when the Eagles need to move on. Just not today. If Peters’ Hall of Fame career taught us anything, it’s that he can come back from this, too.

Howie Roseman’s Eagles draft history: What to watch for at the combine - The Athletic Draft likelihood: Watergun to my head, [defensive tackle] is the position of the Eagles’ first-round pick. I would also not rule out a trade-up if the Eagles see someone like Ed Oliver or Christian Wilkins falling and the memory of moving up for Cox takes hold of Roseman.

Who Can Boost Their Draft Stock the Most at the NFL Combine? - The Ringer No NFL team assigns too much importance to the combine’s athletic tests, but a performance for the ages could send a few players shooting up draft boards. For others, the weigh-in represents a chance to put some questions to bed. Which prospects will come out of this week as winners?

2019 NFL Combine Preview: Why It Matters - Rotoworld Now, more than ever, I know NFL Combine results matter. Teams use athletic testing in a variety of ways and many times with success. There are definitely examples of “workout warriors” being selected early and failing, but that can be said for any facet of evaluations. Yes, for teams the medicals and interviews matter to a great degree. But we do not receive that information, therefore my focus will be on the numbers generated from this week. Above all, context and perspective are important. More or less, the NFL Combine is broadcast as an event to run 40s and then participate in position drills. In the past there has not been an extensive focus on the shuttle, 3-cone, broad or vertical jump, unless a name or result pops out.

Le’Veon Bell, Tevin Coleman and the 2019 Free Agent Running Backs - Player Profile Let’s not mince words. Le’Veon Bell is looking to get paid. He didn’t walk away from more than $14 million last year just to sign a sweetheart deal with the Philadelphia Eagles in hopes of getting a Super Bowl ring. He’s looking to cash in, and really, who can blame him? Running back is frequently viewed as an easily replaceable position, and the success James Connor and Jaylen Samuels experienced filling in for Bell last year simply reinforces that mindset. It makes sense that Bell would want to extract the most value out of what will likely be his last long-term contract, but only a handful of teams have the requisite cap space combined with a glaring need at the RB position.

Report: The 2018-19 NFL All-Penalty Team – The Most Penalty Yards Given Up By Players in Each Position - SportFacts Every year we like to take a look at what player in each position netted the most penalty yards. It’s a fun analysis into what players are causing the most headaches for their coordinators. Below you’ll find a breakdown of the most penalized player in each position, and a list of our 2018-19 NFL Season All-Penalty Team. [BLG Note: No Eagles players made this list.]

Exclusive: Eagles Autism Challenge to expand its beneficiary applicant pool - Philadelphia Business Journal The football team assembled a nine-person scientific peer review panel to review applications. More researchers will be able to apply for funding from the Eagles Autism Challenge in year two.

What the suspension of Randy Gregory means for the Cowboys - Blogging The Boys Having said that, the situation is rather grim for the team. Had Gregory not failed the test, getting Lawrence back would have left the team in good shape as far as the starters go. Now they just have Taco Charlton and Dorance Armstrong under contract, and can also consider moving Tyrone Crawford back to DE full-time. Charlton has been disappointing for a first-round pick, and Armstrong did not show much during the past season. The defensive tackle position is also woefully understaffed, although they do have a couple of solid starters in Maliek Collins and Antwaun Woods. Crawford was valuable as a multi-position role player, and the team would no doubt prefer not having to move him full-time to the edge.

1 player at each position with the most to gain at the 2019 NFL Combine - SB Nation Defensive back: Nasir Adderley, Delaware. Adderley played his college ball at the University of Delaware, an FCS program. Adderley did a bit of everything for the Blue Hens while he played safety there. He can play in the box near the line of scrimmage, play in the slot against receivers and tight ends, and lay huge hits on receivers as they try to catch passes down the field. As it stands right now, Adderley is a fringe first-round prospect, but he can catapult himself into the top 32 with a strong combine. It’s one thing to show on tape that you can dominate FCS football — it’s another to show that athletically you truly belong in the NFL.

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Source: https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2019/2/27/18242773/eagles-news-pff-alshon-jeffery-philadelphia-most-improved-player-2018-nfl-football-wide-receiver-wr