ENTERTAINMENT

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, June 10, Graham Parker & The Figgs; Saturday, June 11, Chocolate Genius; Friday, June 17, Pablo Perez; Saturday, June 18, Dukes of Destiny. Times and cover charges vary. Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. 215-248-1000.

STRING QUARTET CONCERT. David Yang, a violist and director of chamber music at the University of Pennsylvania, will lead a talented group of professional musicians in a string quartet performance on Thursday, June 9, 6:30-8 p.m., under a clear roof tent in front of the arboretum’s Widener Visitor Center at the Morris Arboretum, 100 Northwestern Ave. The evening’s program will include selections from Franz Josef Haydn, Antonin Dvorak and Felix Mendelssohn Barthholdy. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic dinner or a may purchase a light dinner at the arboretum’s café. Some seating will be available under the tent; however visitors are welcome to bring blankets or chairs. Tickets: 215-247-5777.

AMICI OPERA COMPANY presents a concert of opera highlights at the Allen’s Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, on Sunday, June 12 at 3 p.m. $20 at the door, $18 in advance. 215-224-0257.

KESWICK THEATRE: Tuesday, June 14, Glenn Beck on Ice; Friday, June 17, John Prine; Saturday, June 18, The Smothers Brothers. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com. The summer series for kids begins on June 28.

ROOM SERVICE, a comedy by John Murray and Allen Boretz, will be presented by The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave., Fri.-Sun. June 10-12; Thurs.-Sun. June 16-19; Thurs.-Sat. June 23-25. All shows are at 8 p.m. except Sunday shows, which are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the door, Thursdays 2-for-1. For tickets/reservations call 215-247-8881 or check www.thestagecrafters.org.

UNDERGROUND AT RON'S CONCERT SERIES goes above ground at the Summit Presbyterian Church 6757 Greene St., Mt. Airy. Featuring: Native American Music Award winner Jeff Ball playing wood flute; sound healer Rafael Bejarano playing the didgeridoo and other sacred wind instruments; woodwind artist Clint Goss playing a wide array of world music instruments; and percussionist/host, Ron Kravitz playing the Hang drum and the Sruti Box of India. Tickets are $20 adult, $15 student, $10 children. Saturday, June 11 at 7:30 p.m. Contact Ron at 215-233-0777 or reserve tickets at www.musicinthemoment.com.

WISSAHICKON DANCE ACADEMY CELEBRATES 20 YEARS with a special reunion performance at Germantown Friends School, 31 W. Coulter St., on Sunday, June 12, at 2 p.m. A special reunion reception will follow the performance. Tickets are $10 at the door. 215-849-7950 or www.wissahickondance.com.

THE MANN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is again offering a full summer of exciting entertainment. Tickets are available at the Mann Center Box Office at 52nd and Parkside or charge by phone at 215-893-1999. www.manncenter.org.

MERMAID INN: Friday, June 10, Ellyn Hill & Richard Drueding; Saturday, June 11, Acoustic League of Justice; Friday, June 17, Boris Garcia’s Family Reunion; Saturday, June 18, Stevie & The Bluescasters. 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, many of which are free. For example, there’s a Monday night gospel series in June. Penn’s Landing runs along Columbus Boulevard from Washington Avenue to Spring Garden Street. Details are at 215-922-2FUN or www.pennslandingcorp.com.

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.

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

INFUSION’S JUNE GALLERY will feature photos by Judith Levy, Solomon Levy and Ellie Seif. Judith is showing her work with smaller landscapes and textures taken this past fall in New Hampshire. Sol is showing his urban abstracts from Mt. Airy — Old Philadelphia — and Manhattan, and Ellie will be exhibiting her nature and landscape work from Michigan and New England. All of the artists have exhibited in juried shows and have won awards for their work. InFusion Coffee and Tea, 7133 Germantown Avenue, www.InFusionCoffeeandTea.com; 215-248-1718.

THE CAROL SCHWARTZ GALLERY, 101 Bethlehem Pike, will display “Summer Exhibition,” with local, national and international artists, featuring the oils of David Fox, through July 30. 215-242-4510.

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-5; and by appointment. Through July 2: IDEAS AROUND: steel sculpture by Joe Mooney; new works in gouache, oil, and pastel by Lynn Denton; pastel drawings by Max Maddox; prints by Marilyn Fox. 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 drawing and painting, watercolor and design, landscape painting, portrait and figure clay sculpture, and drawing and painting from live model. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

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.

PAPER ARTS WORKSHOPS AT HISTORIC RITTENHOUSETOWN. Nearly 20 weekend workshops will be offered throughout the summer, when people of all ages and abilities can explore and develop the art of hand papermaking and other related disciplines. Working in the papermaking studio in the restored barn offers a special atmosphere, where history and art unite. 215-843-2228 or www.rittenhousetown.org.

“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.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY, 6780 Germantown Ave: Spend a weekend in the studio learning how to mosaic. Register: 215-848-2110 or classes@bellamosaic.com.

FREE SUNDAY MORNINGS IN JUNE at the Brandywine River Museum, U.S. Route 1 in Chadds Ford, from 9:30 a.m.-noon. 610-388-2700 or www.brandywinemuseum.org.

NATURE/GARDENS

** AT THE MORRIS ARBORETUM, 100 Northwestern Ave: The Garden Railway opens on June 18. Many trips, activities and classes are going on now — for amateurs as well as professionals — adults as well as kids — including drawing, painting, horticulture, perennial gardening, landscape design and floral design. Upcoming classes include: Cottage Gardening: Easy Perennials, Biennials, and Roses will be held on Thursday, June 9 and Saturday June 11; Yoga around the Garden (with Jennifer Schelter) will be held on six Thursdays, June 9, 16, 23, 30, July 7 and 14; Discover the Water Features at the arboretum will be held on Tuesday, June 14; Creating a Garden Railway as a Focal Point in Your Garden will be held on Saturday, June 19. During June, July and August, the gardens will be open until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings. 215-247-5777, ext. 169 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

AT THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION, 12 Morris Road, Ambler:Call 215-646-8866 or e-mail WVWA@aol.com for details about all events.

** AT THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE), 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Roxborough: Saturday, June 18, build a bird house with dad. Information/pre-registration for all programs: 215-482-7300.

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 throughout the area. Upcoming classes include pruning, diseases of woody or herbaceous plants, and all about cactus at Meadowbrook Farm in Abington. Walks through the gardens of Chanticleer are also part of the program. 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.

FOR THE KIDS

** THE CHESTNUT HILL LIBRARY, 8711 Germantown Ave.: “Gardening With Kids” (for parents, grandparents and children) will be on Wednesday, June 15, at 7 p.m. Summer Reading Game 2005 for preschoolers to teens also begins on June 15. Summer Chess Club for ages 6-18 will be on Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8 p.m., June 22 – August 24. Call for summer storytime hours for toddlers. 215-685-9290.

ARTS & CRAFTS CLASSES: Saturday Craft Club for Kids ages 6-8, Saturday, June 18 & 25; 10:30-noon; Craft Club for Tweens ages 9-11, Saturday, June 18; 1-2:30 p.m. All classes take place at FUMCOG in the Education Bldg., 6023 Germantown Ave. 215-844-2944.

TWO OF A KIND will perform at the Morris Arboretum, 100 Northwestern Ave., on Saturday, June 18, at 1 p.m. Free with regular garden admission: adults $10, seniors (65+) $8, youth (3-18) and students (with ID) $5, children under 3 and members free. 215-247-5777 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

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: check for summer story time hours. 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.

AAU BASKETBALL TRYOUTS. The Philadelphia Select Boys AAU Basketball Program is now recruiting boys ages 12-16 to try out for its traveling team. Parents must accompany their athletes to the tryouts. For an invitation (parents only) call Mr. Jones at 267-386-5817.

CAMPS

ACE — ARTS AND CIVIC EDUCATION — IS WILD AT THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER THIS SUMMER. The camp is designed for students aged 12 to 16, and will be held Monday-Saturday, July 18-23, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ACE campers will spend their mornings engaged in discussion about civics and citizenship, and rotate between classes in playwriting, scene study, movement, sculpture, painting and songwriting. In the afternoon, campers will concentrate on one art form, or "major," during which they will explore creative ways to express their civic ideas. At the end of the week, campers will have the opportunity to showcase their expanded understanding of current issues and artistic talent during a special performance for family and friends! 215-409-6700 or www.constitutioncenter.org.

ADVENTURES IN HISTORY CAMP will be offered at The Highlands from August 8-12, 9:30–noon, for children in grades 1 through 4. Historically-based activities, games, storytelling and crafts related to this historic site will be offered. www.highlandshistorical.org or 215-641-2687.

AL-BUSTAN CAMP activities will include learning about the Arab region historically as the center of trade along the Silk Route; creating a place of trading — a traditional souk — where the campers can build their stalls and create their wares to display, barter and sell; developing short folk tale skits; and of course, dancing the debkeh, playing the tableh, singing, and appreciating Arabic music through demonstrations on the oud and violin. www.albustanseeds.org or 267-303-0070.

ALLENS LANE ART CENTER, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, runs day camp from June 20 – August 12 for kids 5-12. 215-248-0546.

ART AT WOODMERE. Young people, ages 5 -18, are invited to work with the finest artists in the area during Woodmere’s summer of art making. Classes included a magical art workshop, printmaking, collage and beyond, painting and drawing, performance art and ideas, art around the world, sculpture, landscape painting and comic strip art. Classes start June 27. Woodmere membership is required for art classes. For more information or to register for the art classes, call 215-247-0948.

CAMP INDIGO AT CHESTNUT HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH is a non-religious day camp for children 7-12 with a maximum of 15 children; only a few spots are left. Sessions run four, six or eight weeks and run Tuesday, June 14 - Thursday, August 4, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 8:30 - 4:30. 215-247-2236

FLAMENCO AND MORE! At Chestnut Hill College's Summer Arts Camp, local campers take classes in flamenco, ballet, jazz and Broadway and end their summer with showcases on campus. Other classes include art, drama, ceramics and the art of nature. www.chc.edu/artscamp.

GERMANTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL offers summer camps for middle school children. Soccer Camp runs from August 1-5, and is open to boys and girls entering grades 5-9. The Tigers Baseball Camp, from August 8-12, will teach the fundamentals to boys and girls entering grades 5-9. www.gfsnet.org/summer/camps.html or 215-951-2300. Sixers Basketball Camp, for boys and girls ages 7-13, will run from August 15-19 (www.sixerscamps.com or call 610-668-7676).

GHS DISCOVERY THEATER SUMMER CAMP. The Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., will offer its summer camp program from July 11 - August 12 for boys and girls entering grades 3 through 6. Every week brings new activities and trips to historic places. The camp runs in one-week sessions, Monday-Friday mornings and/or afternoons. Registration: 215-844-1683.

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA (GSSP) has designed more than 60 camp sessions to meet the needs of different girls. Home improvement, Web page design, computer animation and travel camp programs are just a few of the highlights for GSSP campers this summer, plus swimming, dancing, horseback riding, photography, acting, biking, hiking, cheerleading or more. Camp sessions run from June through August for girls entering grades one through 12. There are one-week and two-week sessions available, as well as overnight and day camp options. GSSP offers convenient bus transportation for an additional cost. 215-564-2030, ext. 226; e-mail helpdesk@gssp.org; or www.gssp.org.

HOCKEY CAMP. Youth hockey players may enroll in two ice hockey summer camps at the Sovereign Bank Flyers Skate Zone at Voorhees (601 Laurel Oak Road) this August. The two camps are the Philadelphia Phantoms Ice Hockey Camp, August 15-19; and the Philadelphia Flyers 2005 Elite Player Training Camp, August 22-26. 856-309-4400 or www.flyersskatezone.com.

SCIENCE IN THE SUMMER will focus on electricity and physical science at libraries throughout the city. At the Chestnut Hill branch, the program will be from July 12-15; call 215-685-9290. More information is at www.scienceinthesummer.com/pages/philadel.html.

SUMMER ARTS CAMP, for children ages 4-7, will be held at the Germantown Branch of the Settlement Music School, 6128 Germantown Avenue, from July 5 –29, 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Cost $490 and students must register for full four-week session. This multi-disciplinary arts camp provides daily activities in music, dance and the visual arts. Other branches of Settlement also offer programs: Call 215-320- 2610 or visit www.smsmusic.org.

TEEN SUMMER ART CAMP will be from July 5 - August 26 at the Cheltenham Art Center, 439 Ashbourne Road. The program is specially designed for teens ages 13 - 16 who enjoy activities in the visual and performing arts. Students will explore new and exciting creative methods of expression in an independent atmosphere guided by professional teaching artists. 215-379-4660 or e-mail artz@cheltenhamarts.org.

THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN GERMANTOWN, 35 W. Chelten Ave., has summer day camp from June 27-August 12, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., for children entering grades 1-7. A parent orientation meeting will be on Wednesday, June 22 at 7 p.m. Call now to reserve your slot: 215-843-8811.

THE MT. AIRY PLAYGROUND, 7001 Germantown Ave., is hosting specialty camps in archery, baseball, art, golf, soccer and basketball this summer for children ages 6-12. The camps will run Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Breakfast and lunch are provided for all children. The camps will focus on a specialty activity in the morning session and the afternoon session will focus on swimming, arts and crafts, movies and other activities. Parents may enroll their children for any number of weeks. 215-685-9297; registration is held every Monday and Wednesday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

THE ROCK GARDEN (www.therockgarden.net) is a performance-oriented summer music program for student musicians ages 11-17. It meets at The Crefeld School, Monday-Friday, 9-3, June 20-July 29. Its mission is to celebrate the joy of music in a setting that fosters teamwork, individual creativity and a passion for performing. The professional staff is dedicated to promoting musical excellence in a noncompetitive, yet challenging environment. A minimum of one year’s experience on a musical instrument is desired. The director will meet with applicants individually to assess skill level and discuss program goals. To register, call 215-266-8658 or e-mail: rigpasonic@aol.com.

THE SALVATION ARMY is offering a week-long Christian camp program this summer for children ages 7-12 and teens ages 13-16, at Camp Ladore in the Pocono Mountains. Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, tent pitching, hiking, arts & crafts, basketball, archery, nature exploration and lots more! To register your child for Camp Ladore, call the Salvation Army at 215-787-2814.

USA CHESS SUMMER CHESS CAMP TOUR will be from July 5-8 at Springside School, 8000 Cherokee St., for boys and girls ages 5-16, beginners through advanced. www.chesscamp.com or 888.65.CHESS.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER SUMMER ART CAMP: students will explore painting, drawing, printmaking and clay. Call 610-825-0917 for details. Classes are held in the farmhouse in Cedar Grove Park, 100 Cedar Grove Road, in Conshohocken from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

HEALTH/FITNESS

BLOOD SUPPLIES REMAIN 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 Monday, June 13 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 41 W. Rittenhouse St., Germantown, from 1:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Information/scheduling: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

GENTLE MEDITATIVE YOGA CLASS at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration, 6900 Stenton Ave., will take place on Tuesdays, 8 – 9:30 a.m. A yoga mat and loose clothing are recommended; voluntary contribution accepted. To reserve a place, call Jane Hulting, 215-782-1919. Also offered is sitting meditation on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m., for 20 minutes and a creative writing circle on Thursdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Full info: 215-247-2561 or office@uurestoration.us.

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.

DIVORCED? SEPARATED? WORRIED ABOUT YOUR KIDS? Anita Goldenberg, MSS, LSW, certified in marriage and family therapy, of the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space is offering a weekly workshop to help children in families of divorced or separated parents. Beginning June 14, workshops are held on Tuesday evenings from 6 – 8 p.m. at 7149 Germantown Ave. Cost: $120 for 6-week session. To register, call Anita Goldenberg 215-247-2483.

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 (June 14 is the next session) 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.

NEW SELF HELP COURSE REACHES OUT TO THOSE WITH LUPUS: free sessions give tips to keep quality lifestyle everyday. The Lupus Foundation of America, Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, has launched a self-help course for people with lupus. This seven-week program is free of charge and is designed to teach people with lupus how to take a more active part in their health care and live better with this chronic disease. Enrollment is now underway for spring courses which will take place at four area locations. Each weekly session is facilitated by a team of trained volunteers and will include topics such as basic medical information about lupus, medications and treatments, exercise, doctor-patient communication, fatigue management and relaxation and stress management techniques. Pre-registration is required. Programs will be held in the spring and fall. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS: Meetings are at Sunrise of Lafayette Hill, 429 Ridge Pike, on the second Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m.; and at Homelink (Adult Day Center), 6950 Germantown Ave., on the third Wednesday of the month from 7-9 p.m. 800-272-3900.

“ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBS,” led by Teresa Tat, will be presented at the Lovett Memorial Library, 6945 Germantown Ave. (at Sedgwick St.) on Monday, June 13, at 7 p.m. Tat, MAOM licensed acupuncturist, will discuss the basics of Oriental Medicine — acupuncture, Chinese herbs and dietary therapy. Free, no pre-registration needed. 215-785-2095.

BOOK SCENE

BOOK SALE. The Friends of The Elkins Park Free Library will hold a half-price book sale from Friday, June 17-Wednesday, June 23 at 563 East Church Road, Elkins Park. Sale includes over 20,000 books, CDs, audiotapes, videos, magazines, records and more. 215-635-5000.

EDUCATION

RENOWNED JEWISH MUSIC ARCHIVISTS ROBERT AND MOLLY FREEDMAN will discuss “Transition to Modernity 1850-1939: Selected Yiddish Songs” at The Sholom Aleichem Club meeting on Sunday, June 12 at 2:30 p.m. at Gratz College, 7605 Old York Road, Melrose Park. Guest admission for the talk, which is open to the public, is $7 for adults; $2 for students. 215-233-2668 or www.sholomaleichemclub.org.

“DESIGNING FOR THE DEAD” — Art & Architecture at Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3822 Ridge Ave. Historian Thomas Keels takes you on a guided tour of this local landmark. Sunday, June 12, 2-4 p.m. $15 pp.

COMMONWEALTH SPEAKER JOSEPH BECTON will present “The Black Soldier in the Civil War” on the lawn of Historic Hope Lodge on Wednesday, June 15 at 7:30 p.m. This program is free and open to the public. Bring a blanket, lawn chair and a friend. Hope Lodge is located at 553 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. 215-646-1595 or www.ushistory.org/hope.

ENTERPRISING WOMAN Business Plan Competition and Angel Venture Forum kickoff will be held on Thursday, June 9, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the North by Northwest, 7165 Germantown Avenue. 215-247-2473

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.

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, June 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Reservations: 267-440-2576.

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.

HOW TO MULTIPLY YOUR BABY’S INTELLIGENCE, a course on how to teach your baby math, reading, music, foreign languages and more, will be taught from June 5-11, at The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. www.iahp.org or call the registrar, Gwenne Sulby, at 267-440-2598.

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.

JOHNSON HOUSE, a National Historic Landmark cited for its involvement in the Underground Railroad, is open for guided tours, which include a detailed history of the 240-year-old house, its rooms, its grounds and the hiding spaces used by fugitive slaves. There are collections on view related to the Johnson family and its involvement in Philadelphia’s anti-slavery efforts of the 19th century. Tours are by appointment on Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment or drop-in on Saturday from 1 to 4 p .m. The house, made of local Wissahickon schist, is located at 6306 Germantown Ave. on the corner of Washington Lane. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and $2 for children. Call 215-438-1768 to schedule a group or individual tour or with any questions.

TRIPS/TOURS

CONGREGATION OR AMI is sponsoring a trip to see The O’Connor Girls on Sunday, July 10, at the People’s Light and Theatre Co. in Malvern and Hairspray, on Sunday, September 11, at the Merriam Theatre. Reservations: 610-828-8882.

MURAL ARTS TOUR OF PHILADELPHIA, sponsored by the Wissahickon Democrats, will be on Sunday, June 12. Attendees will meet at the Bourse Building and board a trolley with an experienced guide who will explain the origin of the Mural Arts project and the significance of all the murals. A snack will be provided en route and all proceeds will benefit the Democratic candidates in the fall election. The tour starts at 11 a.m. (approximately) and lasts for two hours. This is a great way to see the cityscape and benefit the Democratic Party. Reservations: Judy Hughes at 215-646-8309.

RELIGION

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN, 6511 Lincoln Drive, offers “Coffee and Conversation” on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. 215-844-1157 or www.usguu.org.

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

CONGREGATION OR AMI: Classes in ethics, Torah study, women’s issues, basic Judaism and more, plus Shabbat services are held throughout the month. Call 610-828-9066 for more information. 708 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill.

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

INQUIRY SESSIONS FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN THE CATHOLIC FAITH TO BEGIN THIS SUMMER. Four-session format of one and one half hours, Mondays at 7 p.m. starting July 11. St. Genevieve Parish, 1225 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown. 215-836-7219.
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.

SYNAPLEX SHABBAT AT GERMANTOWN JEWISH CENTRE, 400 W. Ellet St., will be Friday-Saturday, June 10 & 11. Some but not all programs require advanced RSVP. Many programs are free. Details: 215-844-1507 ext. 19, e-mail Synaplex@germantownjewishcentre.org or visit www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

CHILDREN TO CELEBRATE SHAVUOT WITH TORAH READING AND ICE CREAM. Chabad of Northwest Philadelphia is hosting an event on Monday, June 13, at 5:30 p.m., to mark the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, the day that celebrates the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, 3,317 years ago. Along with hearing the Ten Commandments read from a Torah scroll, children will enjoy ice cream and other refreshments. Shavuot is traditionally celebrated by eating dairy products, because the Torah is described (in the Song of Songs) as “honey and milk under your tongue.” The event is open to adults and children of all ages, and is free of charge. It will take place at 7009 McCallum St. #A, in West Mt. Airy. RSVP: 215-438-5327 or at www.chabadnwp.org.

CONGREGATION MISHKAN SHALOM COMMUNITY CHOIR BENEFIT CONCERT. Jan Hamer conducts Makhelat Micha'el, the Jewish community choir, in Jewish classical and folk choral music, plus African-American spirituals and Israeli songs of peace and celebration. Refreshments to follow. Suggested donation $20; ($10 under 18). Saturday June 18 at 8 p.m. at Mishkan Shalom, 4101 Freeland Ave., Roxborough. For tickets, call 610-660-5106.

MISCELLANEOUS

AUDITIONS: DON'T BE BLAH. Thursday, June 9, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Rittenhouse Square. Entrants explain why they are "blah" in the kitchen and are in need of a culinary makeover. Prize: 5-day all expense paid trip to New York, enrollment at a top N.Y. culinary school and a one-on-one lesson with chef celebrity Tyler Florence. Information: Dru Harlan, 312-988-2339.

NORTHWEST VICTIM SERVICES ANNUAL FUNDRAISER "'Red, White and Blues' Benefit and Raffle." Light fare and cocktails, raffle drawing and great jazz, all in the beautiful setting of Morris Arboretum, 100 Northwestern Ave., Wednesday, June 15, 6 p.m. Tickets ($35/person) or information: 215-438-4410.

AMERICA’S WALK FOR DIABETES will be on Saturday, June 18 at 8:30 a.m. at Ft. Washington State Park, starting at the Militia Hill Pavilion. 1-888-DIABETES or www.diabetes.org/walk.

GRAND OPENING OF COOKIE CUTTERS, 7932 Germantown Ave., will be on Saturday, June 18, 10-5 and will include: raffle for prizes, refreshments, Chewy the Gingerbread Man, free Shirley Temple manicures and free mock shaves. 215-248-5437.

THE YMCA OF GERMANTOWN IS LOOKING FOR RECIPES FOR THE Y’S FIRST FIT FAMILY COOKBOOK. The recipes can be any kind of dish, dessert, drink or snack, in any kind of cultural cuisine. The collection will also feature a section of recipes by kids, so, we encourage entries from children in the community. The completed cookbook will be the YMCA’s fall fundraiser, and the proceeds will benefit the YMCA’s program of activities. Send your recipes, typed or handwritten, to: YMCA of Germantown, 5722 Greene St., Philadelphia PA 19144. Questions or suggestions: call Tien Sydnor-Campbell at 215-844-3281.

AT THE CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER: Special Flag Day celebration featuring a "canteen" serving soup and coffee; bring your old flags to retire; hear from members of local VFW Post. Tues, June 14. Open to all. Begins at noon. 7999 Crittenden Street. 215-248-0180 for more details.

AT CENTER IN THE PARK: Tap Dance Show Extravaganza will be on Tuesday, June 14 at 1 p.m. Annual spring bazaar will be on Thursday, June 16, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Summer Computer Education Series will run from June 14-29 at MACCC, 6335 Wayne Ave. (registration at CIP is necessary). CIP is at 5818 Germantown Ave.; www.centerinthepark.org or 215-848-7722.

THE BREAST CANCER 3-DAY will hold a fundraiser on Wednesday, June 15, from 5-9 p.m., at the Trolley Car Diner, 7619 Germantown Ave., to benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. As part of its Helping Hands Night fundraising program, the diner will donate 15% of the revenue from supporters to the Breast Cancer 3-Day. Information: Trolley Car Diner at 215-753-1500 or Sue Ann Rybak at 215-843-2925.

SWING DANCE. Swing lessons at 7 p.m., followed by the Slicked Up Nines, 8:45 – midnight, Saturday, June 11. $12 ($9 students or substantial baked goods to share). Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St., Mt Airy. 610-676-0123 or www.swingdance.org.

RECYCLING SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 18. Recyclables will be collected from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 18 at the Unitarian Church of Germantown parking lot (enter off Johnson Street between Greene Street and Wayne Avenue). Weaver’s Way Cooperative and PhilaPride sponsor this third Saturday of each month collection. 215-843-2350.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROPOFF will be on Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Northwest Transfer Station, Domino Lane and Umbria Street in Roxborough. www.phila.gov/streets or 215-686-5560.

A SPRING CLEAN-UP will be held at Grumblethorpe, an historic house museum at 5267 Germantown Ave., on Saturday, June 11 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. In the spirit of an Amish barn raising, the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks, the administrator of the house, is seeking volunteers to garden and paint portions of the exterior of the museum building. Lunch will be served to all volunteers. To volunteer, call Landmarks at 215-925-2251 or visit www.PhilaLandmarks.org.

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.

MCYO AUDITIONS. The Montgomery County Youth Orchestra is presently hearing auditions for the 2005/2006 season for young players of orchestral instruments presently in elementary, junior, middle or high school. There are openings for violin, viola, cello, string bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba and percussion. Information / appointment: 610-642-3948 (office) or 610-644-8763 (home).

THE JUNE FETE HORSE & PONY SHOW AND VILLAGE FAIR, for the benefit of Abington Hospital, will be on Friday-Sunday, June 10-12, at the hospital fairgrounds, Edge Hill and Huntington roads in Huntington Valley. 215-481-2500 or www.junefete.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.

APPALACHIAN CLOGGING CLASSES begin June 18 and run through early September at the Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum streets, on Saturdays, 11 a.m. – noon. $7/session; no pre-registration required. Leather bottom or tap shoes are the most suitable footwear. 215-643-4397 or email info@fiddlekicks.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.

WEDNESDAYS IN THE CITY. Enjoy $4 cocktails, $3 wine and $2 beers with free appetizers at participating bars and restaurants all over Center City, every Wednesday, through August 31, from 5-7 p.m. www.centercityphila.org/summerinthecity/happyhr.aspx or 215-440-5500.

AT THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, “DOGS: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend” will run through September 5, with activities for the whole family almost every weekend. DOGS is the largest, most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created to explore the history, biology and evolution of dogs and the role of dogs in human societies. 215-299-1000 or www.acnatsci.org.

AT THE NATIONAL LIBERTY MUSEUM, 321 Chestnut St.: Through June 30, “Showstopping, an exhibit of award-winning glass art. Blues legends George Higgs and Lightnin’ Wells will be performing from 2-3 p.m. on Sunday, June 19, “Juneteenth,” which is also Father’s Day. 215-925-2800 or www.libertymuseum.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.

• Volunteers Needed for TEX MEX Race for Open Space on June 22, 2005. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association and TEX MEX Connection Restaurant and Bar will host the 17th TEX MEX 5K Race for Open Space on Wednesday, June 22 at 7:30 in North Wales. This popular, midweek race hosts 800 runners. Everyone finishes in the parking lot of Tex Mex Connection for the Post Race Party of tacos, salad and a beverage. There is also a 1-mile walk and a 1-mile fun run, all held at 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association’s work to preserve open space. WVWA needs over 70 volunteers a to help direct the runners, man the water stops and help at the finish line. Volunteers are needed from 5:00 or 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. and are invited to join everyone for the Post Race Party. To volunteer or to receive information about the race, call Carol DeLancey: carolatWVWA@aol.com or call 215-646-8866 ext. 15; go to www.active.com; or pickup a brochure at Tex Mex Connection at 2nd & Walnut Streets, North Wales.

• Ronald McDonald Camp needs counselors for Aug. 14-20. 215-387-8406, ext.325 or www.RonaldMcDonaldCamp.org.

• 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.

• Philadelphia Reads. Philadelphia Reads, a nonprofit agency which promotes children’s literacy, wants to make all Philadelphia school children bookworms. The organization trains community members to work as reading coaches in area schools, community organizations and faith-based organizations, which are located throughout the city. Volunteers are required to serve a minimum of one hour per week for a three month period. Two summer training sessions are being held. Space is limited, so reservations are necessary. The dates are: Saturday, June 18 and Wednesday, June 22. For more information, call 215-851-1748 or visit www.phila.gov/philareads.

• 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.