ENTERTAINMENT

SIDE MAN, a moving drama about jazz by Warren Leight, for mature audiences, will be presented at The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave., Thursday-Saturday May 5, 6, 7 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the door, Thursdays 2-for-1. Tickets/reservations: 215-247-8881 or www.thestagecrafters.org.

MUSIC OF SLAVIC HEROISM, including Dvorak Symphony No. 7, will be presented by the Germantown Academy Community Concerts on Saturday, May 14, 7:30 p.m., at Germantown Academy Arts Center, Lafayette Ave. and Morris Road, Fort Washington. General admission $10, seniors $6, students free. www.germantownacademy.org.

FIRST FRIDAY IN MT. AIRY IS MAY 6. A month of trivia and clues will culminate at the Sedgwick Cultural Center with the First Friday Scavenger Hunt drawing on First Friday, May 6, at 7 p.m. The winner will receive a “taste of Mt. Airy” gift basket to kick off May’s First Friday. The scavenger hunt is a new feature of First Friday, the monthly celebration in Mt. Airy where businesses — ranging from art galleries to restaurants to retailers — extend their hours to 9 p.m. for tours, specials and socializing. www.mtairyfirstfriday.com or 215-844-6021.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, May 6, Devil Doll; Saturday, May 7, Tea Leaf Green; Friday, May 13, Deb Callahan and Paul Cebar; Saturday, May 14 The Breakfast. Times and cover charges vary. Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. 215-248-1000.

BACH FOR A BUCK: The Art of Fugue, Literature, Architecture and of Fine Arts will be on Saturday, May 14, 7.30 p.m. at the Church of the Holy Trinity on Rittenhouse Square, performed by the Dalí String Quartet. If you're a college kid or younger, you will get the whole bang for a buck only: Admission $1. Tickets at www.Bach-Fest.org or call 215-247-BACH.

THE PHILADELPHIA CEILI GROUP will present award winning fiddler Liz Carroll and vocalist and guitarist John Doyle in concert on Sunday, May 15 at 7 p.m. at the Commodore Barry Club, Carpenter Lane and Emlen Street. Workshops in fiddle and guitar will be available beginning at 3 p.m. Admission is $15, $13 for members. 215-248 0502, e-mail philaceili@aol.com or www.PhiladelphiaCeiliGroup.org.

CELEBRATE JAZZ! The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave., is hosting a Community Jazz Jam with Donald "Chappy" Washington on keyboard, Cheryl Prashker on drums and Nelson Krupp on bass. Bring your instruments; sit-in or solo improvisation is encouraged. Free! Saturday May 14, noon-4 p.m., rain or shine. 215-884-3636 or www.thestagecrafters.org.

PALESTINE FILM FESTIVAL will take place from May 15-22. All screenings are free and will be accompanied by discussion with scholars and filmmakers as well as performances. Venues will include the Church of the Advocate, the Prince Music Theater, the Philadelphia Ethical Society, Sedgwick Cultural Center, Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Asian Arts Initiative and the International House. 215-546-1874 or www.philadelphiapalestinefilmfestival.org.

KESWICK THEATRE: Friday, May 6, Richard Jeni & Kevin Meane; Saturday, May 7, Kate Clinton; Friday, May 13, Pink Floyd tribute; Sunday, May 15, Where Have All The Flowers Gone. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

MERMAID INN: Friday, May 6, Dukes of Destiny; Saturday, May 7, Timberline; Friday-Saturday, May 13-14, The Sacred Cowboys. Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill; 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

MOVIE MANIA is a fundraising effort for the Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA. You get to see first-run movies in the theater before they're released and support an important charitable cause at the same time. Call 215-517-5070 for details.

SUMMER IN THE CITY. Celebrating the 20th anniversary season, Penn's Landing is the main site for the more than 50 festivals, concerts, and events this spring and summer. It’s in Philadelphia's Waterfront district, running along Columbus Boulevard from Washington Avenue to Spring Garden Street. Details are at 215-922-2FUN or www.pennslandingcorp.com.

DANCES OF INDIA, presented by Nardhana Academy of Dance, will be held at the Andorra Branch Library, 705 E. Cathedral Rd. on Wednesday, May 11, at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. This program, which is part of a year-long celebration of Katherine Dunham, a dancer, choreographer, and scholar who revolutionized American dance, is made possible in part by a grant from Dance Advance, a program funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts and administered in part by Drexel University. 215-685-2552.

JAZZ FLUTIST WALTER BELL, of Chestnut Hill, is a featured performer each Sunday at Hibachi, Pier 19, Columbus Blvd. & Callowhill St., from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations: 215-592-7100.

AT THE LAROSE CLUB, 5531 Germantown Ave., Tony Williams plays jazz on Mondays; you can take dance lessons and/or dance to the oldies on Wednesdays; enjoy live jazz and Caribbean music on Fridays; and dance to the oldies on Saturdays. 215-844-5818.

BLOWN SIDEWAYS THROUGH LIFE, a comedy by Claudia Shear starring Gerre Garrett, will run at the Allens Lane Theater, Allens Lane & McCallum St., through May 7 at 8 p.m. www.allenslane.org or 215-248-0546.

THE MUSIC STUDIO on 8611 Germantown Ave. presents concerts on Saturday afternoons at 2 p.m.: Enter through the Evergreen Avenue parking lot; $7 pp includes refreshments. 866-450-0826.

THE ARTS & BUSINESS COUNCIL OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA is seeking business professionals to volunteer for the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program. 215-790-3621 or www.artsandbusiness-phila.org.

LOOKING FOR HALF-PRICE TICKETS to cultural events in the area? Click www.phillyfunguide.com/calendar/home.do and sign up! 

ARTS

THE CAROL SCHWARTZ GALLERY, 101 Bethlehem Pike, will display “A Garden of Art,” an exhibit to benefit the Morris Arboretum featuring local, national and international artists working in all mediums, through May 28. 215-242-4510.

GARDEN SCULPTURE WORKSHOP: Saturdays, May 7 & 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; $65; $30 material fee. Students will make a mold and cast cement forms from it. Create a stacked totem or an individual sculpture. Embellish pieces using the reverse mosaic technique. Tesserae Studio Gallery 6780 Germantown Ave. 215-848-2110 or www.bellamosaic.com.

INFUSION’S MAY GALLERY features photos by Eugene Martin, of Mt. Airy, with an opening on Friday, May 6, 6-8 p.m. The monthly “cupping” follows at 8:30. 7133 Germantown Ave.; 215-248-1718.

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-5; and by appointment. Through May 28: large-scale oil paintings by Leila Cartier & sculpture by John Costanza. In the downstairs gallery, a variety of paintings, prints, and sculpture by local artists. Reception: Saturday April 30, 4-7 p.m. 215-248-4649.

** WOODMERE ART MUSEUM, 9201 Germantown Ave.: “The Martinos: A Family Legacy” will be on display through July 10. “Rose Naftulin, Paintings and Watercolors, 1955-2005,” will also be on display through July 10. Explore your creative energies and sign up for Woodmere’s art classes for adults, including still-life painting, beginning drawing and painting, portrait and figure clay sculpture, drawing and painting from live model, and fundamentals of portrait painting. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

WITHIN THE HUMAN SPHERE: WORKS BY LAURIE S. AUTH & ROSEMARY L. AUTH will be on display at the Allens Lane Art Center Gallery, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, through May 21. The art center also offers visual and performing arts classes, plays, art exhibits and more for children and adults. See complete schedule and register online at www.allenslane.org or call 215-248-0546 for a brochure.

GALLERY SAINT MARTIN: "You Take a Curtsy, I'll Take a Bow" and other acrylic paintings by Gina Triplett and Matt Curtius. 7811 St. Martin's Lane. 215-247-7811 or www.GallerySaintMartin.com.

THE WISSAHICKON ART CENTER, 5245 Ridge Ave., Roxborough, offers classes for kids and adults in performing and visual arts. Call 215-482-4860 for details.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER, 100 Cedar Grove Road, Conshohocken, offers a variety of art workshops for adults and children throughout the year, plus theater and museum trips. 610-825-0917.

KAREN SINGER TILEWORKS, 90 E. Church Lane in Germantown, offers a variety of day and evening tile and ceramics classes for adults and children year-round. 215-849-7010 or www.karensinger.com.

“WATER, TREES AND SKY: UNCOMMON VIEWS OF THE ARBORETUM” by Gordon Gibfried will be on display in the Upper Gallery of the Morris Arboretum through Sept. 4. The Morris Arboretum is located at 100 Northwestern Avenue in Chestnut Hill. www.morrisarboretum.org or 215-247-5777.

D.I.Y. REVOLUTION: ZINES AND OTHER UNDERGROUND PUBLICATIONS is on display through June 30 in the Design Center, Philadelphia University, 4200 Henry Avenue. Free and open to the public, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. 215-951-2860 or www.philau.edu/designcenter.

"ART FULL TEXT" is on display in City Hall, Second and Fourth Floors, NE corner, through June 24. Participating Local area artists include Judy Engle, John F. Hollis, Dennis Lo, James Rosenthal, Judith Taylor and Susan Viguers.

TEXTILE DESIGN EXHIBITION 2005. Graduating students of Philadelphia University’s textile design course will showcase their works of prints, knits and weaves, May 5-29, at The Mills at East Falls, 3502 Scotts Lane, East Falls. Free opening reception: Thursday, May 5, from 4-7 p.m. www.philau.edu/textiledesign or 215-951-2750.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY. Rachael Isaac, Patty Greenspoon, Abbe Gold and Jessica Liddell — Artwork for Mothers: pressed flower wall hangings, handmade dolls, mosaic picture frames and unique jewelry. Opening reception Friday, May 6, 6-9 p.m., 6780 Germantown Ave. 215-848-2110 or www.bellamosaic.com.

MUSEUMS ON US!® is a program that promotes the arts and cultural activities by providing Bank of America customers free admission to museums throughout the Northeast during the month of May, officially recognized as “National Museum Month.” By simply showing a Bank of America ATM, debit or credit card, customers receive free admission when they visit any of the 56 participating cultural institutions throughout the Northeast. In Philadelphia, customers will enjoy free admission to the Franklin Institute Science Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

NATURE/GARDENS

** AT THE MORRIS ARBORETUM, 100 Northwestern Ave: A variety of trips, activities and classes are going on now — for amateurs as well as professionals — adults as well as kids — including horticulture, perennial gardening, landscape design and floral design. Upcoming events include: Wednesday, May 11, Planting Design for the Home Landscape; Saturday, May 7, Annual plant sale; Saturday, May 7, Mother’s Day Flower Arrangement (for kids ages 5 through 12); May, Teacher training courses; Wednesday, May 11, Special Foliage Techniques; Thursday, May 12, Gardening in the Shade. A Mother’s Day brunch will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 8; reservations necessary. 215-247-5777, ext. 169. www.morrisarboretum.org.

AT THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION: Birdathon is on Friday-Saturday, May 13-14. On Sunday, May 15 at 2 p.m., in honor of Mother’s Day, the WVWA will hold a program called the Hen's and Chicks Picnic. Mothers and children will learn about birds, make a craft and have a picnic snack. Preregistration required by May 12. All ages. $5 per person. Call 215-646-8866 or e-mail WVWA@aol.com for details. The WVWA is at 12 Morris Road, Ambler.

WEAVERS WAY IN THE PARK. Weavers Way “preserve your parkers” will join the Bluebell Hill Community Association and Sierra Club on Saturday morning, May 7, 9 a.m.-noon to clean up the park and neighborhood around the intersection of Wissahickon Avenue and Walnut Lane. Meet at the intersection for a rewarding three hours in the woods. 215-248-1880.

** AT THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE), 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Roxborough: Friday, May 6, Birding in the Delaware Valley; Saturday, May 7, Make stationery for Mom; Thursday, May 12, Teacher’s Night Out; Friday, May 13, Birding in the Delaware Valley; Sunday, May 15, Scavenger Hunt; Sunday, May 15, 1 p.m., NABA meeting: “Butterflies and their roles as pollinators,” featuring Beatriz Moisset. Information/pre-registration for all programs: 215-482-7300.

BARTRAM’S GARDEN NATIVE PLANT SALE will be open to the public on Saturday, May 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Explore an interesting selection of native plants available for purchase in the Bartram Barn. In addition to hard-to-find plants for the “collector,” an assortment of native perennials, vines, shrubs, and trees suitable for sun and shade will be featured, for expert and amateur gardeners alike. Thomas Jefferson and George Washington bought plants here, so should you. Proceeds benefit maintenance and preservation of America’s oldest living botanic garden. www.bartramsgarden.org.

HIKE THE WISSAHICKON with various groups throughout the month. Call the Friends of the Wissahickon at 215-247-0417 for details or click www.fow.org/calendar/calendar.htm.

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY offers a variety of classes throughout the year at various locations. Call 215-988-8869 or go to www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org for details. To see a list of winners from this year’s stunning Flower Show, go to www.theflowershow.com/home/05awards.htm.

WILDFLOWER, NATIVE PLANT AND SEED SALE will be at the Brandywine River Museum, U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford, Saturday-Sunday, May 7-8, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., rain or shine. Free admission. 610-388-2700.

FOR THE KIDS

LU LU SHRINERS CIRCUS will take place Thursday-Sunday, May 12-15, at 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting. Tickets/info: 800-898-5858

** THE CHESTNUT HILL LIBRARY, 8711 Germantown Ave.: Story time for 1- to 3-year-olds is on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m., and on most Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. for children 3-6. 215-685-9290.

MAKIN’ MUSIC, an interactive music program for preschoolers and their caregivers, takes place on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 9:15 or 10:15 at the Water Tower Rec Center, and Mondays and Tuesdays at St. Philips in the Field Church, Oreland. 215-233-2560.

O’DOODLE’S TOY STORE, 8335 Germantown Ave., is now offering martial arts for kids classes and holds an interactive story time on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. 215-247-7345.

THE FREE LIBRARY OF SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, 1600 Paper Mill Road, Wyndmoor: Story time runs at the library through May 28. Story times are as follows: Monday, 10:30 – 10:50 toddler time; Tuesday, 2 – 2:30 p.m., 3 – 6 year olds; Friday, 10:30 – 11:00, 3 – 6 year olds. 215-836-5300.

BORDERS, 8701 Germantown Ave.: Children’s story time is held the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. 215-248-1213.

THE LOVETT LIBRARY is at 6945 Germantown Ave. Call 215-685-2095 for story times.

NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S CENTER INC. ministry at Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., offers kid’s club for ages 3 – 13 every first and third Saturday from 10:45 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kids experience Bible time, music, games, arts and crafts and more. Lunch is provided. Drama club and drill team programs are also available. 215-479-9375.

FUN BIRTHDAY PARTIES WITH AN HISTORIC TWIST. For kids aged 7-12, a party at The Highlands includes historic games, crafts, dress up, scavenger hunts and more. The Highlands is located at 7001 Sheaff Lane, Ft. Washington. 215-641-2687.

HATCH DANCE THEATER is offering Creative Movement classes for 3-5 years and “Big & Little” for 2 years and up with their mom, dad, granny or nanny on Thursday mornings at O’Doodle’s Toy Store. Classes for modern dance and acting, ages 6 years and up (including adults) happen Tuesdays and Saturdays at Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church. 215-416-0457 or hatch@entermail.net.

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Avenue and Cherokee Street, has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. and Saturdays 11:45 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Friends & Fun for ages 4 1/2-11 Tuesdays and Thursdays 3:45 -4:45 p.m.; open adult hockey, group skating lessons and hockey instruction for all ages at varied times and days; and fun birthday parties. 215-247-1759. $6 admission; $1 guest card; $2 skate rental.

THE WRITERS ROOM OF BUCKS COUNTY, 4 W. Oakland Ave., Doylestown, is offering a number of new programs for children from grades 3 through high school, running through its summer writing camp. 215-348-1663 or www.WritersRoom.net.

HEALTH/FITNESS

BLOOD SUPPLIES ARE AT A CRITICALLY LOW LEVEL! Being a donor might not get your name in the newspaper or on TV, but it sure makes you an American hero. You can give on Wednesday, May 11 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m at St. Madeline Sophie Church, 6440 Greene St.; on Wednesday, May 11 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m at Germantown High School, 40 High St.; on Sunday, May 15 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m at the Germantown Jewish Center, 400 W. Ellet St. Information: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN — a family information meeting — will take place on Saturday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at United Cerebral Palsy, 100 Mermaid Lane, Chestnut Hill. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Guest speakers: Attorney Joseph L. Romano, Dr. Francis McNesby, Dr. Renee Turchi. Topics explored will include identifying funding, understanding health care coverage, nursing care and accessing special education. RSVP to UCP at 215-242-4200, ext. 210; fax 215-247-4229; TTY 215-248-7620; or by e-mailing ucpphila@aol.com.

FREE TAY-SACHS AND CANAVAN CARRIER SCREENINGS will be available at many area locations throughout May, sponsored by National Tay-Sachs & Allied Diseases Association of Delaware Valley. Nearby, free screenings will be held Tuesday, May 10, 6:30 – 8 p.m., at Congregation Beth Or, Penllyn Pike and Dager Road, Blue Bell; and Wednesday, May 11, 6 – 8 p.m. at Germantown Jewish Centre, 400 W. Ellet Street. Carrier screening is a simple blood test. No appointment is needed. For information or other screening locations, call 215-887-0877 or visit www.tay-sachs.org.

WIN AGAINST WEIGHT, a six week Mt Airy Learning Tree course, begins Saturday May 14. Learn how to manage your weight, so you can manage to lose it. Discover if a diet will work for you before you start it. Exercise can be satisfying and easy, you just have to know how to frame this objective. Sign up at MALT 215-843-6333 or call Susan for more class information 215-248-0999.

CONGREGATION OR AMI is sponsoring a team for the Mother’s Day Race for the Cure, Sunday, May 8. Call the synagogue office for race or bus information: 610-828-9066.

KEYSTONE HOSPICE PLANS 10TH ANNIVERSARY. The "Cinco de Mayo - a Celebration of Life!" open house and awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Keystone House, 8765 Stenton Ave., celebrating 10 years of exceptional care. 215-836-2440.

THE PHILLY FITNESS FOR LIFE healthy lifestyle and vegetarian support group will meet Wednesday, May 11 at 12:45 p.m. at Canaan Baptist Church, 5430 Pulaski Ave. Teacher Glenn Ellis will be the special guest speaker. For information, call Donna Brewer, 215-284-1090.

FABRY DISEASE PATIENT MEETING: Saturday, May 7, noon – 3 p.m., CHOP, Abramson Building, 3615 Civic Center Blvd. Lunch will be provided. RSVP by May 5: Joan Hart, 210-590-3692 or HARTJ@email.chop.edu.

FREE CANCER PREVENTION & SURVIVAL COOKING COURSE (four classes) by local chef Tondra Fleming will be held through June 9 at Whole Foods Market, 1575 The Fairway, Jenkintown. Registration: call or e-mail Dana Sommers at 215-481-0800 or Dana.Sommers@wholefoods.com.

WEIGHT WATCHERS SPECIAL OFFER. As part of its ongoing commitment to encourage people toward healthier lifestyles through proper nutrition and increased activities, Weight Watchers of Philadelphia Inc. has declared open house month in May. Any non-member interested in losing weight is invited to attend one free Weight Watchers meeting any time throughout the month of May. As an added incentive for those non-members who take advantage of the free meeting offer, Weight Watchers is providing a special $25 joining fee, $15 off the regular joining fee of $40, for those who join at a free open house meeting in May. Those new members will be able to continue at $14 for weekly meetings, with special consideration for seniors and students at $13 per week. To find the nearest Weight Watchers meeting location, call 1-800-651-6000 or click www.wwphl.com.

THE MATERNAL WELLNESS CENTER is at 7149 Germantown Avenue, in the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space. They provide individual and couples psychotherapy as well as holistic birth education and a number of other supportive groups and services for women and families. 215-242-1815.

JEWISH FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICE of Greater Philadelphia will be offering continuing education programs and classes on health and healing at various locations throughout the region. Visit www.jfcsphil.org or call 215-540-3737 for more information.

BEGINNER GYROKINESIS CLASS (therapeutic movement system for the spine) taught by Joe Tighe, physical therapist, every Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. at his studio, The Balance Point, 400 W. Hortter St. Jessica Krow teaches every Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. First class free. 215-844-7773.

STRENGTH AND AEROBIC INTERVAL TRAINING is offered on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m. at Wallace and Glick Physical Therapy and Fitness, 813 Bethlehem Pike. $. 215-233-9677. Donna Storm and Drew Wallace will lead the training.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., continue on alternate Tuesday afternoons (May 3) from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

KEYSTONE HOSPICE OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS throughout the month, with specialty groups for children, widowers, young widows, and a new “motherless daughters” group. Most are free, lunch is often included, but pre-registration is requested: 215-836-2440. 8765 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor.

STAY IN SHAPE. For many kinds of movement, mind-body and dance classes for you and your kids, ongoing and drop-in, look to the Moving Arts Studio, off Lincoln Drive. 215 842-1040.

FUN RUN. Wissahickon Wanderers Running Club meets every Saturday at 8 a.m.; start at Valley Green. Details: 215-849-9080 or www.wanderersrunningclub.org.

RELAX INTO NOW MEDITATION teleclass with Linda Durand every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. Join this group call and experience "yoga on the phone" without leaving home! 215-242-0604 or www.RelaxIntoNow.com.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS conducts two meetings each week at Roxborough Memorial Hospital, 5800 Ridge Avenue. Details: 215-248-4333.

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers a variety of fitness classes for children, teens and adults throughout the year. Social dance classes for adults are beginning on April 29. 215-482-3900.

YOGA / TAI CHI / QIGONG classes are offered throughout the week at The Second Wind Center, 98 Bethlehem Pike. Information: 215-248-9642.

CHESTNUT HILL HOSPITAL offers a great variety of programs and support groups, plus exercise programs for all ages and physical conditions (including yoga, Feldenkrais and awareness through movement), cardiac rehabilitation, women’s health issues, smoking cessation programs, CPR, a senior activity and functional evaluation (SAFE) program, a variety of clinical trials, a driver screening course, wound care program, diabetes education and support center, a geriatric resource center, drop-in parenting discussion and child play group, a prosthetic and orthotic program, wheelchair program, prenatal/postpartum yoga classes, cancer support groups, breastfeeding classes, stroke club, babysitter training and more. 215-753-2000 or www.chh.org.

THE WELLNESS COMMUNITY sponsors many programs and support groups for people with cancer. 215-879-7733 or www.twcp.org.

EDUCATION

“SPIRITS AND SPIRITUALISTS,“ a special Laurel Hill Cemetery Tour, will be on Sunday, May 8, 2-4 p.m. $15 pp. Reservations: 215-228-8200.

“OIL DEPLETION AND THE COLLAPSE OF THE AMERICAN DREAM … WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT?” is the topic for the Monday, May 9, Pizza & Politics meeting — from 7:30-9 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Ave. Free. 215-205-8157 or pjavsicas@comcast.net.

WHAT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS LOOK FOR IN LENDING TO SMALL BUSINESSES will be discussed by Aubrey Kenney, senior bank manager at the Mt. Airy branch of Sovereign Bank, and Kenneth W. Hilbert, business loan officer at The Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, at the Thursday, May 5 meeting of The Small Office Home Office (SOHO) group, a joint venture of The Mt. Airy Business Association (MABA) and The Business Center at New Covenant Campus. The SOHO group meets the first Thursday of every month at Cresheim Cottage Café, 7402 Germantown Ave., from 8:45-10 a.m. Admission is free. 215-548-2958 or www.mtairybiz.com.

ECONOMIC JUSTICE AND THE IMPACT OF CORPORATE PERSONHOOD will be discussed at the Unitarian Society of Germantown, 6511 Lincoln Dr., on Thursday, May 12 at 7 p.m. Featured speaker is former Philadelphia assistant DA Gillian R. Gilhool. Free. 215-844-1157.

EXPLORE GRUMBLETHORPE. A new historic house and garden tour has been designed for senior citizens at Grumblethorpe, 5267 Germantown Ave. Visit an 18th century house and garden. See Sally Wister’s bedroom, original kitchen and the desk where Owen Wister wrote his famous novel, The Virginian. See a restored Federal garden, America’s oldest ginkgo tree and the ruins of the observatory where Charles Wister charted the Grumblethorpe Meridian. Grumblethorpe is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. Admission $4. 215-925-2251.

12TH ANNUAL PRESERVATION ACHIEVEMENTS AWARDS LUNCHEON will be on Thursday, May 5 at noon at The Crystal Tea Room at the Wanamaker Building, Philadelphia. RSVP: 215-546-1146, ext. 19 or info@preservationalliance.com.

KIDS THAT START AHEAD, STAY AHEAD! How to teach your newborn to six-year-old anything and everything joyously. View a free 44-minute introductory video production, featuring author Glenn Doman, on Wednesday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Reservations: 267-440-2576.

"IMPROV YOUR RELATIONSHIPS" is an improvisation workshop for single men and women who would like to enhance their social skills repertoire, increase their playfulness and flexibility or expand their social network. The next event will be held on Sunday May 15 from 2:30-5 p.m. at the Awbury Arboretum. Participation fee is $30. Information / registration / directions: call 215 844-7772 (mailbox #3) or e-mail SinglesULTD@aol.com.

THE MT. AIRY COMPUTER CENTER, 6335 Wayne Ave., offers classes for kids and adults throughout the week. Call 215-438-8505 for a complete schedule.

GOOD SHEPHERD OFFERS A VARIETY OF MEDIATION PROGRAMS throughout the year, including basic mediator training, 2005 volunteer gatherings, conflict coaching, divorce & custody mediation, victim offender conferencing training, mediating disability — related disputes and representing your client in mediation. For information about registration and fees, call 215-843-5413. The Mediation Center is located at 5356 Chew Ave., Germantown.

SEWING FOR THE SOLDIERS is a Civil War exhibit hosted by the Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., through October 20. The exhibit includes prints and drawings from the era of women putting garments together for Northern and Southern soldiers. The museum and library are open every Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 215-844-1683 or www.germantownhistory.org.

CELEBRATE OLDER AMERICANS IN MAY at the National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St. on Independence Mall: In collaboration with the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging and PECO, the National Constitution Center is participating in Seniors Celebrate the Arts, a month-long celebration during May. Seniors 62+ can take advantage of a special offer, a $10 ticket that includes lunch and admission to the museum. Participants will receive a food voucher valued at $6.25 to the Delegates’ Restaurant. (Food Voucher must be used on day of purchase. No cash value.) www.constitutioncenter.org or 215-409-6600.

"CULTURAL LANDSCAPES & HISTORIC PRESERVATION TODAY" will be presented by landscape historian Charles Birnbaum on Tuesday, May 10, 6 p.m., at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, 415 W. Willow Grove Ave. $20; reservations required: call 215-848-1690. Sponsored by The Wyck Association.

BOOK SCENE

THE MYSTERY GROUP AT THE ANDORRA LIBRARY will meet at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 9, to discuss The Perfumed Sleeve, by Laura Joh Rowland. Light refreshments will be served and all are invited to attend. 215-685-2552. The library is in the Andorra Shopping Center at 705 E. Cathedral Road.

THE AFTERNOON BOOK GROUP AT ANDORRA LIBRARY will meet at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11, to discuss The Art of Mending, by Elizabeth Berg. Light refreshments will be served and all are invited to attend. 215-685-2552. The library is in the Andorra Shopping Center at 705 E. Cathedral Road.

BOOK READING, SIGNING AND CELEBRATION of The Splendor Of Creation: A Biblical Ecology with author Ellen Bernstein will be on Sunday, May 15 at 11 a.m. at the Germantown Jewish Centre, 400 West Ellet St. 215-844-1507 or www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

RELIGION

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN, 6511 Lincoln Drive, offers “Coffee and Conversation” on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. On May 8, the topic will be Medicare; on May 15, discuss the principles of Islam. 215-844-1157 or www.usguu.org.

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH AND THE AUTHORITY OF SCRIPTURE will be presented by Rowan A. Greer, professor of Anglican Studies Emeritus at Yale Divinity School on Saturday, May 14 from 9 a.m. - noon at St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh, Bethlehem Pike and Camp Hill Road. This seminar is part of the Center for Spiritual Inquiry series. Pre-registration is $15 per event ($20 at the door). 215-233-3970 or www.stthomaswhitemarsh.org.

ST. THOMAS' CHURCH OFFERS CELTIC CANDLELIGHT WORSHIP SERVICES through Eastertide (May 8) on Sunday evenings beginning at 5:30 p.m. The services are designed to make common prayer, a foundation of the Episcopal Church, as accessible as possible for anyone interested in exploring their faith journey. The combination of candlelight, Celtic music, word and reflection offer a unique opportunity for personal contemplation amid the warmth of community. St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh is located at Bethlehem Pike and Camphill Road. www.stthomaswhitemarsh.org or 215-233-3970.

THE UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN (USG) invites neighbors and friends to the ongoing celebration of its 140-year exploration of liberal religion and inclusive ministry. On Sunday, May 8, at 7 p.m., Joseph Abdo, researcher on Samuel Longfellow, early minister of USG (1878 to 1882) and brother of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow will speak. The society is located at 6511 Lincoln Drive, phone 215-844-1157.

SSJ CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY, 9701 Germantown Ave., offers weekend retreats, presentations and spiritual workshops throughout the year. Call 215-248-7222 for details.

THE JEWISH CHILDREN’S FOLKSHUL meets at the Germantown Friends School, Sharpless Building, 31 W. Coulter St. 215-248-1550 or www.folkshul.org.

PLYMOUTH VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH, 1090 Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, offers a full range of worship and community services and special events. 610-277-1690 or www.PVCCHURCH.com.

FESTIVAL OF HYMNS CHOIR will celebrate their 14th Anniversary Service on Sunday, May 15, 4 p.m. at Janes Memorial United Methodist Church, 47 East Haines Street. The choir, an ecumenical group composed of 85-plus voices, with instrumental ensemble, is conducted by Harrilese DuRant Miles. The choir recently released its sixth CD entitled Behold Him. All are welcome. Free-will offering. 215-844-9564.

FORUM DEALING WITH ISRAELI/PALESTINIAN RELATIONS concludes at The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields on Sunday, May 8. The Right Rev. Allen Bartlett will lead participants in examining how people of faith can help support the peace process. All Sunday Forums take place at 10 a.m. in the Parish Hall. There is no admission charge. The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is located at 8000 St. Martins Lane, on the corner of St. Martins Lane and Willow Grove Avenue. 215-247-7466.

CALVARY EPISCOPAL CHURCH, at the corner of Manheim Street and Pulaski Avenue, Germantown, will host a Mother’s Day concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 8, by the West Philadelphia Children’s Choir. Under the direction of Rae Ann Anderson, the 40-member choir will perform a variety of songs from the folk, spiritual and classical genres. Free will donation. 215-854-5724.

SYNAPLEX SHABBAT AT GERMANTOWN JEWISH CENTRE, 400 W. Ellet Street, will be on Friday-Saturday, May 13 & 14. Some but not all programs require advanced RSVP. 215-844-1507 ext. 19, e-mail Synaplex@germantownjewishcentre.org, or visit  www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

MISCELLANEOUS

AT THE CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER, 7999 Crittenden St., 215-248-0180: Friday, May 6 at 1 p.m., Gretchen Schaff demonstrates medieval carved drinking horns and hand-forged jewelry. Both programs free and open to the public; refreshments will be served.

COOKING WITH JOHN RORER will take place on Wednesday, May 11 at 11 a.m. at The Highlands Mansion & Gardens, 7001 Sheaff Lane Fort Washington. Reservations required: 215-641-2687

SHAKING YOUR FAMILY TREE AT CIP: A Genealogy Demo will be on Tuesday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to noon. At Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. www.centerinthepark.org or 215-848-7722. Free.

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH will host its annual Spring Sale on Saturday, May 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attic treasures, home-made baked goods, gardenery and blooms for the garden, plus delectable refreshments will be ready for your pleasure at Grace Lutheran Church, 801 E. Willow Grove Ave., Wyndmoor. 215-233-3292.

MOTHERS DAY WEEKEND at The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th St., will feature many special activities, including Mother and Child Heart Health Day, musical performances, crafts, exercise tips, games and more on Saturday, May 7. Go to www.fi.edu or call 215-448-1200 for details.

TROLLEY CAR DINER'S "HELPING HANDS" PROGRAM will benefit Cornerstone Christian Academy on Wednesday, May 11 from 5-9 p.m. Fifteen percent of patron's check will go directly to CCA. For more information call 215-247-6123.

A SHOW OF HANDS BENEFIT ART AUCTION FOR MANNA, a local nonprofit organization that delivers nourishment to people living with HIV/AIDS. Local and national artists and collectors join in the fight against AIDS by donating their distinctive paintings, crafts, photography and jewelry to the auction. The evening also features guest DJ Robert Drake of 88.5 WXPN and a live auction conducted by guest auctioneer Alasdair Nichol of Freeman’s Auction House. The auction will be held on Friday, May 20 at 5 p.m. at The Galleries at Moore, Moore College of Art and Design, 20th Street and the Parkway. Tickets, $55 each, includes lavish cocktail party, as well as a silent and live art auction) and can be purchased by calling 215-49-MANNA.

NORTHWEST PEACE & JUSTICE MOVEMENT MONTHLY MEETING: begin organizing a candlelight vigil at Philadelphia's City Hall. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11, in the Parish Center behind Saint Vincent's Church, 109 East Price Street, Germantown. 215-843-4256 or nwgreens@yahoo.com.

SUNDAYS ON THE HILL RETURNS. The Chestnut Hill Business Association’s Sunday Shopping on the Hill promotion is in full swing. Come to Germantown Avenue beginning at 1 p.m. on Sundays for free trolley rides, music and other special events. Call the CHBA at 215-247-6696 for more information.

“ISRAEL IN OUR HEARTS,” Israel Independence Day celebration will be on Sunday, May 15 in Central Philadelphia and will include a walk and a festival, where the main event will be the Guinness Book of World Records attempt for the largest hora (circle) dance. Activities begin at noon. Registration is free, but required to enter the “Walk for Israel” staging area and the festival area. Security guards will be checking bags. Pre-event registration and additional information are available at www.jewishphilly.org or by calling 215-832-0536.

MOUNT AIRY PLAYGROUND, 7001 Germantown Ave., has a variety of activities for kids and adults: after-school programs, football, ceramics, basketball, aerobics, karate, line dancing and more. Camp for kids 6-12 will also be available this summer. Call 215-685-9297 for details.

SWING DANCE: Saturday, May 14. Swing lessons at 7 p.m., followed by The Jump City Jazz Orchestra, 8:45 – midnight. $15 ($12 students or substantial baked goods to share). Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St. 610-676-0123 or www.swingdance.org. 

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING will take place on Saturday, May 7, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. at Summit Presbyterian Church, Greene and Westview streets, led by Ted Rudofker; Music by Fish 'n Chips. $8; no partner necessary. 215-836-0426 or www.germantowncountrydancers.org.

CONTRA DANCING takes place every Thursday evening at Glenside Memorial Hall, Keswick Ave. and Waverly Street, Glenside. The dance runs from 8-11 p.m., with a break in the middle. There is always live music, with a different band each week. Dances are also on the third Saturdays from September to May. Admission is $6-7. 215-643-4397 or www.thursdaycontra.com.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS w/ Maurice Edwards takes place at Summit Presbyterian Church (basement). Green and Westview Streets in Mount Airy on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Live drums. $15. 215-849-1484.

INTERNATIONAL DANCING takes place at Or Hadash, 190 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington from 8 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays. $5; free first time. www.beaverfolkdance.org or 610-688-3284.

WALK PHILADELPHIA offers dozens of guided architecture tours of the city and region. 215-625-9255 or www.walkphiladelphia.com.

RENAISSANCE BALL to support The Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) will be on Saturday, May 7, at the Hyatt Regency at Penn's Landing. Tickets are $325 per person. www.ccfa.org or 215-396-9100.

SIMON GRATZ HIGH SCHOOL classes of January and June 1952 are seeking classmates for a 53-year reunion in 2005. Call 215-673-7738.

AT THE NATIONAL LIBERTY MUSEUM, 321 Chestnut St.: Saturday-Sunday, May 14 & 15, A Salute to Heroes on the Beat for Police Memorial Day. All weekend long, police officers and their families enjoy free museum admission; special tours & activities are planned. 215-925-2800 or www.libertymuseum.org.

AT THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER,

AT THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.: www.acnatsci.org

** Member of Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

VOLUNTEER

• Volunteers Needed for the Second Annual "Retrieving Memory" Golf, Silent Auction and Dinner event to benefit Alzheimer's Research and the Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter. This year’s event will be held on October 17, 2005 at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Last year’s event grossed over $200,000 for this important cause. For more information about volunteering or sponsorships please call Bruce Glendinning at 610-940-3909 or e-mail him at bruce22@comcast.net.

• The Academy of Natural Sciences is recruiting volunteers for the exhibit “Dogs: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend” to be at the Academy this summer. For information contact Lois Kuter, volunteer coordinator, 215-299-1029 or kuter@acnatsci.org.

• Wissahickon Hospice is actively recruiting volunteers to serve and support hospice patients and families within the community. Once trained, hospice volunteers join the team of doctors, nurses, social workers, home health aides and pastoral counselors to provide care and support to patients and families facing end of life struggles. Whether visiting with patients in their homes, nursing homes or helping with administrative office duties and special events, volunteers give of their time, experience and talents to serve their community. 610-617-2400.

• You can be the one to make a difference in someone's life! Share your time, talent and energy as a volunteer for Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia. JFCS needs volunteers in a variety of areas. There are opportunities to volunteer as individuals, as families or as a group. For information call Sandra Fryer, JFCS director of volunteer services, at 215-698-9950, ext. 112.

• Seeking domestic violence hotline volunteers. Philadelphia-based domestic violence agency seeks dedicated hotline volunteers to counsel women endangered by domestic violence and substance abuse. Volunteers participate in a 45-hour crisis-intervention training program (two nights/week) in spring 2005 and volunteer for two six-hour shifts a month. Be a voice of hope and safety for women and their children. For more information, call 215-564-5301, extension 118, or visit www.womanintransitioninc.org.

• Roxborough YMCA after school program needs your help. Are you a high school student, college student or adult looking to help others? Are you good with math, English, history, science or arts and crafts? The Roxborough YMCA is looking for volunteer tutors to help tutor children in its After School Program. Children will range from kindergarten to the fifth grade. Anyone interested should contact Mark Szezek at the Roxborough YMCA at 215-482-3900, extension 24.

• Volunteer with ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships! Share your passion, hobby or pastime with kids for one hour a week at a school, recreation center or library convenient to you. Call ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships at 215-875-7024, e-mail asapinfo@phillyasap.org or go to www.phillyasap.org. 

• The Pennsylvania Senior Environment Corps of The Schuylkill Center is seeking active people over 55 who are interested in doing water quality monitoring, public outreach or related activities for just a few hours each month. Call 215-482-7300.

• The Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA can always use help with general office work as well as special events and projects. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Chestnut Hill Hospital is recruiting volunteers for a variety of challenging positions. Volunteers are needed in patient and non-patient care areas. A commitment of a 4-hour block of time once a week is desired. Call 215-248-8289 or e-mail vsd@CHH.org.

• Fox Chase Cancer Center is looking for volunteers to provide administrative staffing assistance. Call 215-728-3110 for more information.

• Cancer Patients Need Your Help. Area cancer patients need your help to get to and from their medical treatments and appointments. Road to Recovery, a service program sponsored by the American Cancer Society, needs kind people to volunteer a few weekday hours to help a neighbor in need. Some mileage reimbursement is available and schedules are flexible. Reliable car and insurance required. For more information, call 610-692-0677.

• The Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking male and female volunteers to serve as mentors to the young men and women enrolled in DHS’ Achieving Independence Center (AI Center), a resource for young men and women in foster care who are “aging out” of the system. For many of these young people, there is no family or support network awaiting them. The AI Center enables these young men and women to acquire basic life skills, employment training, job opportunities and even a place to live. Mentors must be at least 21 years of age, be willing to make a 12-month commitment to the AI Center and volunteer a minimum of four hours per month. The AI Center staff will match you with a young person with whom you are compatible and provide you with mentor orientation and training sessions. The most significant requirements are compassion, strong listening skills and a desire to help someone less fortunate. To learn more about the program, call the AI Center at 215-574-9194.

• The Highlands Historical Society Needs Docents & Volunteers. Wanted: people-friendly, well-spoken individuals to help with special educational programs, guide historical interpretative tours and/ or work with children’s programs. Behind-the-scenes, physical help is also welcomed in the garden. Call Jennifer April at The Highlands Historical Society for more information: 215-641-2687.

• The Red Cross Needs Disaster Response Volunteers. Free training provided. Call 215-405-8558.

• The Center for Literacy is seeking volunteers to help improve the reading skills of thousands of area residents. Call 215-474-1235 or click www.centerforliteracy.org for more information.

• Foster Parents Needed. Catholic Social Services is looking for married or single adults to become foster parents to children of all ages, races and religions. Homes are also needed for children with special medical or emotional needs and for siblings who wish to live together. 215-587-3960.

• Historic RittenhouseTown needs volunteers for a variety of activities. Call 215-438-5711 or go to www.rittenhousetown.org.

• Samaritan Care Hospice is looking for volunteers to provide one-on-one companionship to terminally ill patients with a wide range of life-limiting illnesses, including cancer, end-stage cardiac diseases, ALS and end-stage Alzheimer’s. For information call 215-653-7310.

• The Franklin Institute Science Museum needs volunteers in a variety of areas, from mentoring Germantown students about careers in science and technology to greeting visitors to helping with the museum’s special events. Call 215-448-1163 or visit www.fi.edu.

• www.volunteersolutions.org/volunteerway/volunteer/ is a great starting point for you to find volunteer opportunities, as is www.philacares.com.

• Mayor’s commission on service to the aging’s APPRISE program is seeking volunteers to counsel seniors regarding Medicare, Medicaid and health care fraud issues; training will be provided. For more information, call 215-686-8462.

• You can be the one to make a difference in someone's life. Share your time, talent and energy as a volunteer for Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia. JFCS needs volunteers to provide the following services: calling, visiting, driving, or providing shopping assistance for an elderly or disabled client; befriending an adolescent or adult with a developmental disability; Helping with minor home maintenance and home repairs on a periodic basis; becoming a volunteer grandparent (adults 50 plus) in the Project JOY program. Volunteer as individuals, as families or as a group. Information: Sandra Fryer, 215-698-9950, ext. 112; Irma Simuni, 215-698-4529, ext. 228 or 284 or www.jfcsphil.org.