This Week

ENTERTAINMENT

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Leroy & the Zydeco Roadrunners play on Friday, Oct. 15 and the Reckless Amateurs take to the stage on Saturday, Oct. 16. Ben Arnold & Scott Bricklin play on Friday, Oct. 22, followed by African/Caribbean party night on Saturday, Oct. 23. Times and cover charges vary. Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa; Sundays at 8, it’s classic R&B. Happy Hour Office parties are also available; call for details. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. 215-248-1000.

KESWICK THEATRE: It’s An Evening with Joe Satriani on Thurs., Oct. 14. Fourplay will jazz it up on Friday, Oct. 15. Jane Olivor sings on Saturday, Oct. 16 followed by Carol Channing on Sunday, Oct. 17. Richard Thompson's 1,000 Years of Popular Music is on Wednesday, Oct. 20 and Wynonna sings on Friday, Oct. 22. Dee Snider's "Van Helsing's Curse" is on Saturday, Oct. 23 and America takes the stage on Sunday, Oct. 24. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

MERMAID INN: Tom Gala & the Terraplanes play on Friday, Oct. 15; Stevie & the Bluescasters return on Saturday, Oct. 16. Flexible Flyer plays bluegrass on Friday, Oct. 22, as does Fred’s Mobile Homes on Saturday, Oct. 23. Times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill. 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

KANKOURAN DANCE, an African Dance troupe with roots in Senegal, will perform a single show on Sunday, Oct. 24, at 3 p.m. at the Sedgwick Cultural Center, 7137 Germantown Ave. 215-248-9229 or www.sedgwickcenter.org.

THE BRITISH ARE COMING! is a choir, brass and percussion concert on Sunday, Oct. 24 at the First Presbyterian Church in Germantown, 35 W. Chelten Ave., at 3 p.m. Free. 215-843-8811 ext. 819 or www.fpcgermantown.org.

SWING DANCE on Friday, Oct. 15. Swing lessons at 7 p.m., followed by the City Rhythm Orchestra and Ray Gelato, 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.

PIFFARO, THE RENAISSANCE BAND, presents “The French Connection: Northern Composers at the Courts of Rome” on Saturday, Oct. 23 at 8 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Ave. $. 215-235-8469 or www.piffaro.com.

SPIRITED DANCE & SING, an evening of dances of universal peace and karaoke/dance fundraiser, hosted by the friends of Jeanne Ayesha Lauenborg, will be on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 7-11 p.m. at the Crefeld School, 8836 Crefeld St. 215-247-8323, laoverton@earthlink.net or www.suficaravan.com.

A MUSICAL EVENING WITH MANDALA — Transformative Devotional Music incorporating aspects of Turkish and Indian Sufi music, Gregorian chant, classical chamber music, Balkan folk music and Klezmer will take place at St. Paul's Church, 22 East Chestnut Hill Ave., on Wednesday, Oct. 20 at 7:30 p.m. 215-242-2055, ext. 35.

STANDING ON MY SISTERS' SHOULDERS, a powerful documentary set in 1960s’ Mississippi during the civil rights struggle, will be presented at The Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration, 6900 Stenton Ave., Mt. Airy, on Sunday, Oct. 17, at 5 p.m. Free. 215-247-2561 or visit www.uurestoration.us.

THE MEMORY OF WATER, by Shelagh Stephenson, directed by Karen O'Hanlon, will be performed at the Allens Lane Theater, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, through Oct. 16, Fri. & Sat. at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 6 p.m. Tickets: $15 at the door. 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org.

OLDIES DANCE PARTY AND HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST with DJ’s Lou Costello and Billy from Philly will be on Friday, Oct. 22 from 8-midnight. Lu Lu Shriners Great Hall, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting. 800-898-5858. $10 pp. BYOB; ice, water, soda available.  Free Parking. Line dance lessons at 7 p.m. are free.

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.

THE LOFT JAZZ CLUB (UPSTAIRS AT ANGLESEA’S PUB), 7132 Germantown Ave., offers live jazz on Saturdays from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. No cover. 215-247-0598.

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.

BLUE MONDAY JAZZ JAMS take place each Monday from 6-9 p.m. at the Sedgwick Cultural Center, 7137 Germantown Ave.

ARTS

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-5; and by appointment. Oct. 13-Nov. 13, still life paintings by Doris Peltzman; photography by Vincent Feldman, Link Harper and Yvonne Barber. 215-248-4649.

INFUSION’S GALLERY is featuring “Fiber in Dimension,” non-traditional fiber sculpture by Leslie Pontz. 7133 Germantown Ave. 215-842-1939.

"PLAYING THE FIELD: THE ART + DESIGN OF GODLEY-SCHWAN" at The Design Center/Philadelphia University will run through Nov. 19. This retrospective exhibition of furniture, furnishings, process drawings and sketchbooks highlights the bridging of craft, art and design – a trend that became full-blown in the American furniture market during the 1980s and 1990s. 215-951-2860. www.PhilaU.edu/designcenter.

“ARABESQUES,” encaustic paintings by Christopher Meredith, are on display at Gallery Saint Martin. Also featuring painting, prints and more by Susan Hall, Naomi Limont, Monique Seyler and Ursula Sternberg. Public hours: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 2-6 p.m. through Dec. 19 and by appointment. Call 215-247-7811 for info. Visit at 7811 St. Martin's Lane or on the web at GallerySaintMartin.com.

CERAMIC TILE WORKSHOPS are available on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings through Nov. 3 at Karen Singer Tileworks, 90 E. Church Lane, Germantown. 215-849-7010 or www.karensinger.com.

** WOODMERE ART MUSEUM is showing a stunning collection of more than 50 works — including oil paintings, watercolors, and prints — by the late Allan Freelon, African-American, Tyler School of Art-educated, master Impressionist painter and printmaker through Nov. 28. Woodmere is at 9201 Germantown Ave. Suggested donation $5, $3 seniors and students, children under 12 free. Visiting hours: Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 – 5 p.m.  Call 215-247-0476 or visit www.woodmereartmuseum.org for more information.

REAL WORLD/DREAM WORLD: Paintings by Lisa Reisman, Christopher Windle and Joseph Gibson will be on display from Oct. 22 - Nov. 14 at Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum Street. 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org. Opening reception: Friday, Oct. 22, 7 – 9 p.m.

NATURE, MYTH & SOUL: Paintings by Isadore LaDuca & Kevin Convery, sculpture by Virginia Abbott; through Oct. 16 at Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum Street. 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org.

FURNISHING THE HOME IN EARLY FEDERAL GERMANTOWN, 1790-1810, is the exhibit at the Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., until December 30. 215-844-1683 or www.germantownhistory.org.

SUGARLOAF CRAFTS FESTIVAL will be at the Ft. Washington Expo Center on Oct. 15-17. 800-210-9900 or www.sugarloafcrafts.com for discount coupons.

THE HIGHLANDS CRAFT SHOW will be on Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 16 (10-5) and 17 (10-4). More than 50 artisans; admission is $7. Lunches and snacks are available; ample free parking.  Located at Skippack Pike (#73) and Sheaff Lane, Fort Washington. 215-641-2687.

FALL AT ALLENS LANE ART CENTER includes classes, plays, art exhibits and more. See complete schedule and register online at www.allenslane.org/classes.html or call 215-248-0546 for a brochure.

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.

ART IN CITY HALL: The City of Philadelphia's visual art exhibition program, Art In City Hall, in collaboration with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, presents an exhibit celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. The exhibit is open to the public through Oct. 15 and is located on the N.E. corner of City Hall, second and fourth floors. 215-683-2078 or artincityhall@phila.gov.

ARTS & CULTURE WEEK offers half-price tickets to arts venues throughout the city from Oct. 17-23. Details: www.PhillyFunGuide.com/cultureweek.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER CALL FOR ENTRIES. Open to producers of fine original crafts including clay, fiber, metal, wood, glass, etc. through juried committee. Annual craft market is held Dec. 2-5 in the Barn in Cedar Grove Park on Cedar Grove Road in Conshohocken. Details: 610-825-0917.

NATURE/GARDENS

WISSAHICKON WORKDAY will be on Saturday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Friends of the Wissahickon, the Wissahickon Restoration Volunteers and Fairmount Park Commission (FPC) staff are looking for volunteers to invest some sweat equity in the park to help repair the damage caused by the two storms that clobbered the area on August 1 and September 28. To volunteer, call FPC's volunteer coordinator David Bower at 215-991-3272. 

Apple Cider on Forbidden Drive. Join Fairmount Park staff and volunteers in making apple cider using an old-fashioned cider press on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. An apple hunt for children will begin at 11:30 a.m. Meet in front of the “Cedar’s  House” at Northwestern Ave. and Forbidden Dr. Free. 215-685-9285.

** THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE) is at 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Roxborough. “A birding adventure in the Yukon Territory” will be presented by the Wyncote Audubon on Friday, Oct. 15 at 7:30 p.m.; Autumn hayride and campfire will be on Friday, Oct. 15; Fall birdseed sale is on Oct. 16-17; Birding trip to Cape May is on Saturday, Oct. 16; Redbud native plant sale is on Oct. 16-17. Information/pre-registration for all programs: 215-482-7300.

MILITIA HILL HAWK WATCH takes place at Ft. Washington State Park daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., through Oct. 31. 215-884-2558.

THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION’S archeological dig continues to find artifacts. You can help with the dig and/or see the artifacts on display. Also, birding classes for all levels are also available at the WVWA and there will be a family program on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. called Lenni Lenape Tribal Life: learn how they used what nature provided for food, shelter, clothing and entertainment; get an idea of what their lives were like compared to ours today. 12 Morris Road, Ambler. 215-646-8866.

** AT THE MORRIS ARBORETUM: A variety of trips, activities and classes are going on now — for amateurs as well as professionals — adults as well as kids — including horticulture, landscape design and floral design. There is even a bird watching trip to Cape May on Oct. 19 and teacher training is being offered this month. The Garden Railway is open through Oct. 11. 100 Northwestern Ave.; $; 215-247-5777 or www.morrisarboretum.org. The Morris Arboretum is at 100 Northwestern Ave.

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.

FOR THE KIDS

** 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 Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. for children 3-6. 215-685-9290.

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.

FREE LIBRARY OF SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, 1600 Paper Mill Road, Wyndmoor, offers daytime and evening story times for young children. Kristin Pedimonti will tell trickster tales on Monday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. 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, 6945 Germantown Ave.: Call for story hours and special events: 215-685-2095.

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. 215-479-9375.

PLAY FREE AT PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM. Free Library of Philadelphia customers will now be able to visit the Please Touch Museum for free through a special program. Eight library branches, including the Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library at 68 W. Chelten Ave., are loaning out Please Touch Museum play passes, allowing up to six people to visit the museum for free. Details: 215-685-2152.

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. Parties are two hours in length at the historic mansion and cost $100 for the first 10 children. The Highlands is located at 7001 Sheaff Lane, Ft. Washington. 215-641-2687.

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers after-school and teen leadership programs, plus yoga for kids. Details: 215-482-3900.

HATCH DANCE THEATER offers 3-5 year old creative movement on Tuesdays 3:15 and Thursdays 11:15 at Chestnut Hill Methodist Church; intergenerational dance for 2 years and up on Thursdays 2-2:45; and acting classes on Tuesdays at 4 p.m for 8-13-year-olds and at 6:15 for 13 and older. 215-416-0457.

HEALTH/FITNESS

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., 215-844-7773. First class free.

ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION’S SELF-HELP AND WALK WITH EASE courses are being offered this fall at the Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Ave. on Tuesdays and Fridays through Oct. 22. Call 215-564-9800, ext. 100 for details.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP meets the third Wednesday of the month — Oct. 20 — from 7-9 p.m. at Homelink Adult Day Care, 6950 Germantown Ave. 1-800-272-3900.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., continue on alternate Tuesday afternoons (Oct. 19, Nov. 2, Nov. 16), from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

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 at the Germantown Jewish Center, 400 W. Ellet St., on Sunday, Oct. 17 from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Information: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

TO LIVE AGAIN, INC., a support group for widows and widowers, will sponsor a free conference for widows and widowers of all ages on Saturday, Oct. 23 at the Plymouth Meeting Community Church, 1090 Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by the programs at 1:15 p.m. The theme is “Yes, You Can!” Discussion groups will be moderated by professionals. No reservations are necessary. 610-664-7595.

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.

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.

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., starting Wednesday, Oct. 6. Join this group call and experience "yoga on the phone" without leaving home! 215-242-0604 or www.RelaxIntoNow.com.

TIRED OF HAVING THE SAME OLD ARGUMENT? Learn a simple and powerful four-step communication method to dramatically improve your difficult conversations. Enhance your ability to understand yourself, create more satisfying connections with others and turn your conflicts into opportunities for growth. First class free. Tuesday eves. 6-8:30 p.m. in East Mt. Airy. $15/class, $120/10 classes. Open enrollment begins Oct. 19. 215-248-0466.

YOGA / TAI CHI / QIGONG classes are offered throughout the week at The Second Wind Center, 98 Bethlehem Pike. Information: 215-248-9642. A classical yoga course, offered by the SKY Foundation, runs for four Wednesday evenings each month. 215-247-0641.

CHESTNUT HILL HOSPITAL offers a great variety of programs and support groups, plus exercise programs for all ages and physical conditions (including yoga and Feldenkrais), 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.

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ASTHMA, EMPHYSEMA, LUNG CANCER OR TUBERCULOSIS? The American Lung Association Call Center is staffed with registered nurses and respiratory therapists who can answer any of your lung health questions and can even help you quit smoking. Call 800-548-8252.

"MANAGING ADVANCED BREAST CANCER: New Treatments and Strategies," a LBBC teleconference, will be from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 15. Julie R. Gralow, MD, of University of Washington School of Medicine, will discuss medical advances and quality-of-life issues specific to women with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer. The teleconference is free. To register, visit www.lbbc.org or call 610-645-4567.

EDUCATION

FRENCH-ONLY CONVERSATION LUNCHEON, sponsored by the Alliance Française, will take place at Cafette, 8136 Ardleigh St., on Friday, Oct. 22 at 12:30. 215-735-5283.

WHAT IF … SEPTA REALLY MEANS IT? Economist and former SEPTA Board member Dick Voith discusses an incredibly possible shrinking SEPTA at a Pizza & Politics meeting on Monday, Oct. 18, 7:30-9 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill Free Library Community Room, 8711 Germantown Ave. 215-233-9220 or 215-836-7886.

"HEALTHY COMMUNICATION" is a workshop series given by the Springfield/Whitemarsh Parenting Center on Wednesdays, Oct. 20 and 27 from 7-9 p.m. in the St. Thomas' Church Parish House Living Room, Bethlehem Pike and Camp Hill Road. Fee $12 ($15 with spouse). Childcare available. Learn specific skills to help you facilitate healthy, clear and direct communication while improving your relationship with your children and minimizing negative interactions. 215 233-3970.

VICTIM OFFENDER CONFERENCING TRAINING will be offered by the Good Shepherd Mediation Program on Oct. 14-16, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Mediation Center, 5356 Chew Avenue. Trainees will develop skills and techniques to help victims in their need for answers and restitution while offenders are discouraged from further crime by hearing and understanding the costs of their actions. 215-843-5413, extension 28.

BASIC MEDIATION TRAINING will be offered by the Good Shepherd Mediation Program on Oct. 21, 22 & 23, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Mediation Center, 5356 Chew Ave. Focus will be on family and neighborhood issues. It offers trainees the opportunity to develop skills and techniques to enhance information gathering, communication, problem solving, conflict management, agreement writing, ethical decision-making and perception. 215-843-5413.

THE BUSINESS CENTER AT NEW COVENANT CAMPUS is beginning its fall classes, which range in subject matter from federal SBA courses to business capitalization to personal organization courses. For a complete listing of courses and open houses, go to www.thebizctr.com or call 215-247-2473.

HOW TO MULTIPLY YOUR BABY’S INTELLIGENCE, a course on how to teach your baby math, reading, music, foreign languages and much more, will be offered at The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor, from Oct. 18-23. 267-440-2598 or www.iahp.org.

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.

PRESIDENT'S COMMISSION ON WHITE HOUSE FELLOWSHIPS is accepting applications for the 2005-2006 Class. Founded in 1964, the White House Fellows program is America's most prestigious program for leadership and public service. White House Fellowships offer exceptional young men and women first-hand experience working at the highest levels of the federal government. Applications must be postmarked by Feb. 1, 2005. Go to www.whitehouse.gov/fellows for details.

COLLEGE NIGHT at Bishop McDevitt High School, 125 Royal Ave., Wyncote, will be on Thursday, Oct. 14 from 7-9 p.m. 215-887-5575.

STRENGTHENING THE BONDS: INTERFAITH FAMILIES AT HOME AND IN THE COMMUNITY is a conference for interfaith families and extended families and Jewish communal professionals on Sunday, Oct. 17, noon-6 p.m. at Steinhardt Hall, University of Pennsylvania, 215 South 39th St. 215-540-3737, ext. 112 or merleb@jfcsphil.org.

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, Oct. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Reservations: 267-440-2576.

OPEN HOUSES. Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 West Willow Grove Avenue, will host two open houses for prospective parents and students interested in Pre-kindergarten through 12th grade on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, November 17 at 8:30 a.m. For information about financial aid or to make reservations for the open houses, call 215-247-4700.

WHEN BAD THINGS HAPPEN: HOW FOLK BALLADS TELL STORIES OF NATURAL AND MAN-MADE DISASTERS will be presented by Dr. Saul Broudy, on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. at Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington. Free.

BOOK SCENE

BOOK SALE. The Friends Of The Elkins Park Free Library will hold a book sale on Friday, Oct. 22, 7-9 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 24, 1-3:30 p.m. at 563 East Church Road, Elkins Park. Sale includes books, CDs, audiotapes, videos, magazines, records and more. 215-635-5000.

AUTHOR AND ACTIVIST PENNY HESS will be reading from her book Overturning the Culture of Violence on Monday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. at Borders, 8701 Germantown Ave. 215-552-8722 or e-mail uhuru99@critpath.org.

TRUDY RUBIN, WORLDVIEW COLUMNIST FOR THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER and author of the timely new book, Willful Blindness: The Bush Administration and Iraq will be discussing and signing her book at Borders, 8701 Germantown Ave. on Thursday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. 215-248-1213.

RELIGION

CHILDREN’S SABBATH COALITION hosts 12th annual multi-faith service. On Sunday, Oct. 17, at 3 p.m., the Children’s Sabbath Coalition of Greater Philadelphia will host a multi-faith service featuring the Keystone State Boys Choir and Dorothy Johnson-Speight, founder of the group Mothers in Charge. Held at the First Presbyterian Church, 35 W. Chelten St. in Germantown, the theme for this year’s service will be “Beyond Violence: Every Child Deserves Care and Justice.” 215-843-5600 x221 or geostern@nim-phila.org.

JOSE RAMOS-SANTANA, an internationally-acclaimed pianist, will perform a recital at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Ave., on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m. A candlelight service follows. Free. 215-247-8855.

SSJ CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY, 9701 Germantown Ave., will host an evening of prayer enrichment on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 6 p.m.; “Coffee & Contemplation” on Thursday mornings through Nov. 11 from 9:30-11:45 a.m.; a fall retreat day for Hispanic women on Saturday, Oct. 16; a discussion of the spirituality of religious perfectionism on Wednesday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. 215-248-7222.

ST. MICHAEL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 6671 Germantown Ave., will present organist and composer Larry Wheelock in an organ concert on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m. He will feature works by J.S. Bach, William Timmings, Alexander Guilmant, Henri Dallier and his own compositions. Free. 215-848-0199.

CONNECTING TO OUR JUDAISM is a series of interactive and experiential programs at Or Ami, 708 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill. 610-828-9066.

ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 22 E. Chestnut Hill Ave.: The Women in the Bible series will be on Wednesdays, Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10 and 17, 7:30 - 9 p.m. in the Dixon House Library, led by The Rev. Jean Mather for the first three weeks, then Rabbi Leonard Gordon and his wife Lori Lefkovitz, and St. Paul's parishioner Jonathan Nidock on Nov. 17. Information: the Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert at 215-242-2055 ext. 35 or www.stpaulschestnuthill.org.

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN, 6511 Lincoln Drive, offers “Coffee and Conversation” on most Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Lynn Robinson and Garvey Lundy will discuss “What About Haiti” on Sunday, Oct. 17. For Information call 215-844-1157 or visit www.usguu.org.

JENNIFER WEINER will be the guest speaker at the Congregation Or Ami sisterhood luncheon on Sunday, Oct. 24, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us to hear Weiner speak about her popular witty, unglam novels that are making her the biggest chick-lit success story. Find out what all the buzz is about! Call today for ticket availability: 610-828-9066.

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

GERMANTOWN SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, 200 E. Cliveden St, will feature Walter Pearson throughout October. 215-849-6967.

“A BIBLE FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM” with Fr. Eric Hollas, OSB, a monk of Saint John's Abbey and senior associate for arts and cultural affairs at Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minn., will be presented at St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh, Bethlehem Pike and Camp Hill Road, on Saturday, Oct. 16, 9 a.m.-noon. Pre-registration is $15 per event ($20 at the door). 215-233-3970 or www.stthomaswhitemarsh.org.

MISCELLANEOUS

RUN FOR THE HILL OF IT DINNER DANCE honoring Sean Mahoney is on Saturday, Oct. 16 from 7 p.m.-midnight at the Morris Arboretum. 610-889-0752.

MAKE IT - BAKE IT  - SEW IT - GROW IT AUCTION, to benefit Keystone Hospice, will be on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at the First Church of the Brethren, 8707 Cheltenham Ave., Wyndmoor. The live auction will feature themed baskets, craft items, original art, holiday décor and much more. $5 admission includes light refreshments. 215-826-2440.

INTERCOMMUNITY ACTION’S EIGHTH ANNUAL AUCTION will be on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Twelve Caesars on 4200 City Line Avenue. The event includes a lavish buffet dinner, the opportunity to bid on auction items (from the typical to the very unique) and a raffle drawing for a brand new Chrysler Sebring or $15,000 in cash, all of which will benefit Interac’s many community outreach programs and services in the areas of Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Aging. Tickets: 215-487-0567.

MOUNT AIRY PLAYGROUND, 7001 Germantown Ave., has a variety of fall activities for kids and adults: after-school programs, football, ceramics, basketball, aerobics, karate, line dancing and more. Call 215-685-9297 for details.

FUNDRAISER CAR WASH AND BAKE SALE. First Church of the Brethren, 8707 West Cheltenham Ave., Wyndmoor, will hold a car wash and bake sale on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Browse through the bake sale table with your free cup of coffee while you are having your car washed. The fee for car washing will be on a donation basis. All proceeds from this fundraiser dinner will go to the church choral program. 215-836-5083 or www.churchofthebrethren.com.

THE PHILADELPHIA RECORDER SOCIETY hold its monthly recorder playing sessions at the Settlement Music School, Germantown Branch, 6128 Germantown Ave. on Monday, Oct. 18, 6:45 - 9 pm. Information: Joanne at 215-844-8054 or Dody at 215-886-2241.

COMMUNITY FLEA MARKET, sponsored by Germantown SDA Church, will be on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. on the 6400 block of Magnolia St. 215-849-6967.

HISTORIC RITTENHOUSETOWN, 206 Lincoln Drive, will host a Halloween family papermaking workshop and a hearth cooking class on Saturday, Oct. 23. Information/registration: 215-843-2228. www.rittenhousetown.org.

KEY TO THE CURE Shopping and Fashion Event to benefit Living Beyond Breast Cancer will be Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 14-17, at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bala Cynwyd. 610-645-4567.

RECYCLING is scheduled for Oct. 16. Recyclables will be collected from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 16 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.

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1974 REUNION will be on Nov. 26-27. Make your reservation ASAP by calling 610-323-7150 or e-mail eces@enter.net.

GERMANTOWN HIGH CLASS OF 1974 is planning its reunion for Saturday, Oct. 23 at the Adams Mark Hotel. RSVP: 215-844-4901 or gtownreunion@aol.com.

“TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION” is on display at The Franklin Institute Science Museum, 222 North 20th Street, through January 2. 215-448-1200 or www.fi.edu.

FREE HELP FOR SMALL BUSINESS. Win free assistance in stabilizing or growing your business from the Greater Philadelphia Region of the International Institute for Independent Business (IIB-GPR). For an entry form and more information, call Bruce Murray at 215-848-4222 or e-mail bpmurray@infionline.net.

LEWIS & CLARK: THE NATIONAL BICENTENNIAL EXHIBITION will be on display at The Academy of Natural Sciences from Nov. 6 – March 20, 2005. Timed tickets are on sale now. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to relive America’s greatest adventure through the eyes of the intrepid explorers and the Native Americans they encountered. Call 1-800-347-9000 or go to www.acnatsci.org/lewisclark.

SAFETY, ASSERTIVENESS AND SELF-DEFENSE FOR WOMEN. Women's Anti-Violence Education (WAVE) welcomes women of all ages shapes, sizes and physical abilities to a full-length six-week self defense class held every Thursday evening Sept. 30-Nov. 4, from 6-8 p.m. at 1501 Cherry Street in Center City. Learn skills and techniques to help you avoid, deter and resist assault. Register: 215-241-5720. 

GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? is a benefit for Mt. Airy, USA on Saturday, Oct. 16 from 7-10 p.m. at the Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St. Family-style Italian dining will be enlivened by a celebrity Philly guest at each table. 215-844-6021.

PHILADELPHIA HOME DESIGN SHOW: Luxury home industry to be showcased for consumers Saturday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Partial proceeds benefit The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. $12 pp/pday. 800-546-0265 or www.philahomedesignshow.com.

PAWS FOR THE CAUSE dog walk, to benefit Fox Chase Cancer Center, will be on Sunday, Oct. 24 at the center, 333 Cottman Ave., starting at 8 a.m. 215-728-3024.

AIDS WALK PHILLY will be on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. at Eakins Oval in front of the Art Museum.215-731-WALK or www.aidswalkphilly.org.

WALK TO CURE LIVER DISEASE will be on Saturday, Oct. 16 at Lloyd Hall on Kelly Drive starting at 8:30 a.m. 610-668-0152 or www.liverfoundation.org/delawarevalleychapter.

CENTER CITY ARTS & CULTURE WEEK, where many venues are offering half-price tickets, is from Oct. 17-23.

** Member of Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

SAVE THE DATE

PRESERVATION POTPOURRI, to benefit the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, is on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 7-11 p.m. at four residences in Druim Moir, followed by dancing and a combined live/silent auction.

A TASTE OF CHESTNUT HILL, the annual dine-around to benefit Teenagers, Inc., will be on Sunday, Nov. 7 from 5-8 p.m. at Springside School.

CHESTNUT HILL HOLIDAY HOUR TOUR is on Saturday, Dec. 4.

THE ANNUAL LUPUS LOOP RUN/WALK, to benefit the Lupus Foundation of Southeastern Pennsylvania, will be on Sunday, Oct. 31 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. www.lupus-sepa.org or 215-517-5070.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD SOUTHEASTERN PA fall event and auction will be on Saturday, Nov. 6 at Material Culture, 4700 Wissahickon Ave., East Falls. 215-351-5529.

BORROWERS BALL of the Free Library of Philadelphia will be on Saturday, Nov. 6. 215-567-7710 or www.library.phila.gov.

CONDUCTOR’S BALL to benefit the Johnson House Historic Site will be on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 8 p.m.-midnight in the Hall of Flags at Penn, 3417 Spruce St.

THE PRINT CENTER ANNUAL AUCTION will be on Wednesday, Nov. 17 from 6-9 p.m. 215-735-6090 or www.printcenter.org.

United Cerebral Palsy Fantasy Auction will be on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Hilton on City Avenue. 215-242-4200.

VOLUNTEER

• Help a child learn to read. Philadelphia Reads is working to ensure that all Philadelphia children read well and independently by the end of third grade. Volunteers become reading coaches at area schools and after-school programs. Training sessions are held in the Municipal Services Building, 1401 JFK Blvd., 16th floor. Call 215-686-4450 for more information or to reserve a spot.

• “Lewis & Clark: The National Bicentennial Exhibition” will be at The Academy of Natural Sciences this fall. Make history as a volunteer for this once-in-a-lifetime museum exhibit. For information, contact Lois Kuter, volunteer coordinator, 215-299-1029 or kuter@acnatsci.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 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 Volunteers. The Highlands has a number of opportunities to work with children, (primarily 4th and 5th graders) guiding them through numerous hands-on activities and engaging their minds. A background in history and/or teaching is a plus but not a requirement. 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.

• Philadelphia Reads is seeking volunteers to read with children — 1st through 3rd grade — in school day and after-school programs throughout the city. Training programs are scheduled on a regular basis. Book sorters are also needed. 215-686-4450.

• 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.

• Historic RittenhouseTown Seeks War Reenactors. To support and expand its historical interpretive and educational programs, Historic RittenhouseTown, a National Historic Landmark District, which is the 1690 site of North America’s first paper mill manufacturing community, is searching for an American Revolutionary War reenactment group or organization. With a major grant from the William Penn Foundation and other supporting funding sources, a key project was recently completed on the circa 1845 Enoch Rittenhouse Home, one of the seven original properties within this historic site. A portion of this historic building now has dedicated space for a group or organization to partner with Historic RittenhouseTown to provide the public with programs, events and activities centered on the American Revolution. This goal is important, since part of this crucial conflict, the 1777 Battle of Germantown, was fought on this location, now within Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. For more information, call 215-438-5711 or e-mail HistRitTwn@aol.com.

USEFUL WEB SITES

• Your guide to most things local in Chestnut Hill is www.chestnuthillpa.com or www.chestnuthill.org.

• The Federal Citizen Information Center of the U.S. General Services Administration maintains a Web site chock full of good, important information for consumers … and you can read everything for free: www.pueblo.gsa.gov.

• The U.S. government's official Web portal is www.FirstGov.gov, with links to thousands of pages featuring helpful services and information from federal, state and local government.

• The Arthritis Foundation maintains www.jointeffort.info, an interactive online resource page to help prevent, manage and control arthritis.

• Do not call! Avoid those telemarketers. Everything you need to know about the state and federal “do not call” lists is available at www.nocallsplease.com.

• Wondering about product recalls? To be notified automatically when a product is recalled, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at 1-800-638-CPSC and ask to be put on their mailing list, or sign up at www.cpsc.gov.

• A cultural access guide for people with disabilities is at www.art-reach.org.

• There’s a virtual animal shelter at www.petfinder.com.

• Here’s an online club for children 7-14 with asthma: www.AsthmaBusters.org.

• To learn about your rights in dealing with debt, click http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc.htm. As a matter of fact, www.ftc.com can be one of your most useful resources.

• "Personal Safety for Children: A Guide for Parents" is available at www.missingkids.com.

• See www.financialassistancenetwork.org for a free download about reducing your drug costs.

• The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has launched its e-commerce site, www.pawineandspirits.com, which will offer mostly super premium and hard-to-find wines, often not available in the local store.

• http://www.parentednet.org/ takes you to the Parent Education Network, which offers free information and technical assistance to parents of children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.

• The Clean Air Council’s “Green Guide” is at www.temple.edu/env-stud.

• Keep safety in mind when shopping for toys. Check the American Academy of Pediatrics at www.aap.org; and a nonprofit group, Kids in Danger, which notifies parents of recalls at www.kidsindanger.org.

• The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission wants to help you make informed decisions about your choices of electricity, natural gas and telephone service. Click www.utilitychoice.org to learn how to make informed decisions.

• Traveling? www.bbonline.com can come in real handy if you’re looking for a bed & breakfast in which to stay.

• www.readandrideclub.com takes you to the transit book club. As a member you will receive a monthly discount on featured Read & Ride book selections, invitations to unique literary events, and more. So ride public transit, sit back, relax and read!

• www.seniormatters.org takes you to FAIR, the site of the  Fairness Advocates for Intergenerational Rights, who run programs like free 911-only cell phones and free “are you all right?” telephone calls for seniors. Whole Foods Markets are now a drop-off point for your used cell phones, in addition to the CHBA office at 8426 Germantown Ave. and other sites; contact FAIR at 215-333-4006 for details.

• www.attorneygeneral.gov is Pennsylvania’s site that is full of useful consumer protection information.

• www.mla.org is the site of the Modern Language Association, which will let you learn about what languages are spoken where in the U.S. — and in what percentage.

• www.oldcitydistrict.org takes you to historic, trendy Old City in Philadelphia, with a list of restaurants, shops and more.

YOU SHOULD ALSO KNOW:

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

THURSDAYS ARE OLDIES NIGHTS AT THE COMMODORE BARRY CLUB, Carpenter Lane and Emlen Street in West Mount Airy. In the tradition of continuing culturally diverse gatherings in Northwest Philadelphia, 2 Girls and A Guy sponsors an oldies night dance party every Thursday from 7 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $10 includes one drink and food. Information: 215-275-8577.

DATING PARTIES FOR GROWN-UPS are now available in Chestnut Hill for a range of age groups at different times. Call 215-248-9642 or click www.philadelphia-speed-dating.com for all the details.

INDEPENDENCE TOASTMASTERS OF FLOURTOWN provides training in leadership and public speaking skills every first and third Tuesday of the month at Scoogi’s, 738 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, at 6:30 p.m. Dinner is optional. 215-482-8765.

THE BUSINESS CENTER AT NEW COVENANT CAMPUS offers a variety of courses in business, marketing, management and more for small businesses. 7500 Germantown Ave. Call 215-247-2473 or click www.thebizctr.com for more information.

THE WOMEN'S CLUB OF ERDENHEIM meets the first Wednesday of each month at the Oreland Presbyterian Church, Church and Paper Mill Roads, beginning at noon. Information: 215-836-1446. Guests are welcome.

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.

MUSIC MEDITATIONS FOR PEACE AND HEALING, with Julia Haines on the harp, take place most Thursdays from 7:30-8:15 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church, 8812 Germantown Ave. 215-842-9123.

WALK THE WILD WISSAHICKON. The Sierra Club sponsors hikes regularly the last Saturday of each month, hiking a different trail each month. Meet at 10 a.m. at Sedgwick Gardens Apts. in Mt. Airy (McCallum and Sedgwick Sts.) Check with Sidney Goldstein for details, at 215-438-4459, or mrbasketball.net@verizon.net.

AAA NOW OFFERS A DISCOUNT DRUG PROGRAM FOR ITS MEMBERS. Get a brochure from a local AAA office or download it from www.aaa.com/prescriptions and follow the instructions. For a listing of participating pharmacies and more details about this program, visit www.aaa.com/prescriptions or call toll-free 866-222-7283.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY ANONYMOUS, a 12-step program for people recovering from addictive eating, welcomes newcomers and meets every Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. Call Pat at 215-836-0274 for more information.

DROP-IN PARENTING DISCUSSION AND CHILD PLAY GROUP, Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Chestnut Hill HealthCare parenting education, Laughlin Hall, playroom, 8835 Germantown Ave. Chat with other parents about why you're not getting enough sleep, your house is not as clean as you'd like, your child doesn't easily follow directions and more. Children of all ages welcome. No need to register. Free. For information, call 215-753-2000.

SHHH, A HEARING LOSS SUPPORT GROUP, meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Jeanes Library, 4051 Joshua Road, Lafayette Hill. 215-482-7829.

NEW BEGINNINGS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP is held the first Thursday of each month from 7-8:15 p.m. at Keystone Hospice, 8765 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Free; no need to register; light refreshments. Information: 215-836-2440.

WISSAHICKON HOSPICE offers drop-in bereavement support groups for adults on the last Tuesday of each month from 1:30-3 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Hospital, Laughlin Hall, 8835 Germantown Ave. 800-700-8807.

MIRIAM’S WELL: A JEWISH SERVICE FOR HEALING, takes place on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Germantown Jewish Centre, 400 W. Ellet St. Rooted in Jewish tradition, the service is open to anyone wishing to pray for physical, emotional or spiritual healing. 215-844-1507.

BREAST CANCER RECOVERY GROUP, fourth Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m., Chestnut Hill Healthcare Women's Center, 8835 Germantown Avenue. Call 215-242-4700 for information.

CHILDREN OF AGING PARENTS caregivers support group meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, 7:30 p.m., at Atria Chestnut Hill, 495 E. Abington Ave. 215-247-5307.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS conducts two meetings each week at Roxborough Memorial Hospital, near Walnut Lane and Ridge Avenue. Details: 215-674-4418.

DONATE YOUR OLD CELL PHONE, save a life and write off up to $100 per phone. Details are at www.seniormatters.org or call FAIR, a nonprofit organization serving senior citizens, at 215-333-4006.

BREAST CANCER SELF HELP GROUP meets the second Thursday of each month at Canaan Baptist Church, 5430 Pulaski Ave., Germantown, from 7-8:30 p.m. Information: 215-849-7004. Sponsored by Women of Faith and Hope.