ARTS

ALLENS LANE ART CENTER, Allens Lane & McCallum Street: Naked Nature, photographs by Andy McCurdy. Exhibit Dates: Through Nov. 27. 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org.

AMA  DEUS  ENSEMBLE: Mozartfest Friday, Nov. 4, 8 p.m. at the Kimmel Center’s Perelman Theater, Broad and Spruce Streets. Symphony No. 40 in G Minor; Solemn Vespers; Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor. In memory of Eugenia Ionescu. $40, $30, $20. 215-893-1999 or

BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM: Crafts by regional artists. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 5 & 6. Brandywine River Museum Courtyard, U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford. $8 for adults; $5 for senior citizens, students and children ages 6-12; free for members and children under six. 610-388-2700 or www.brandywinemuseum.org.

BACCHANAL!: Annual black tie wine gala and auction benefiting the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts on Nov. 5 from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Samuel M.V. Hamilton Bldg., 128  N. Broad St. Wine tasting, silent and live wine auctions, gourmet dinner and dancing. 215-972-2037 or jmarques@pafa.org.

BENEFIT CONCERT FOR HURRICANE KATRINA RELIEF: “GFS Unplugged” Friday, Nov. 4, 7:30 p.m. in the Poley Assembly Room of the Main Building of Germantown Friends School, 31 West Coulter Street. Acoustic music by GFS music faculty and students.  Free-will offering to support the American Friends Service Committee’s Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund. Free parking. 215-951-2300 or www.germantownfriends.org

PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART CRAFT SHOW: Thursday – Sunday, Nov. 10 –13 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. 195 craft artists. $12 for adults (two-day pass, $18); $5 for children under 12. At the door, or in advance by calling 215 684-7930 or www.philamuseum.org/pmacraft/.

CHELTENHAM  ART CENTER: Craft show and sale Friday, Nov. 4  through Sunday, Nov.13. Monday – Saturday, 10-6; Sunday 1-5. Meet the Artist Reception Sunday, Nov.6, 2-4 pm featuring music, awards presentation and raffle drawing. 439 Ashbourne Rd., Cheltenham. 215-379-4660 or www.cheltenhamarts.org. 

FIRST FRIDAY IN MT. AIRY: Nov. 4 from 6-9 p.m. Businesses — ranging from art galleries to restaurants to retailers — extend their hours to 9 p.m. for tours, specials and socializing. 215-844-6021or www.mtairyfirstfriday.com.

GALLERY SAINT MARTIN: 7811 St. Martin's Lane. Illuminé, painterly photographs of historic France by Sandra C. Davis, is on display through Dec. 15. 215-247-7811 or www.GallerySaintMartin.com.

HIGHLAND AVENUE FINE ARTS: New Chestnut Hill art school is now open, providing professional fine art instruction in studio environment. Small classes and private sessions available for children, teens and adults. 215-247-5089.

INFUSION: Opening reception for artist Brigid Boyle on Friday, Nov 4, from 6-8 p.m. Large silkscreen images that focus on the connection the between fine foods (primarily cheese) and the distribution of power and wealth. Through Nov 30. 7133 Germantown Ave., 215-248-1718 or www.InFusionCoffeeandTea.com.

JMS GALLERY:  8236 Germantown Ave. Wednesday-Friday, 1-6:30; Saturday, noon-6; Sunday noon-4; and by appointment. Through Nov. 12: Exuberance, Anne Boysen’s paintings inspired by flowers and music; sculpture by Leo Sewell for the curious and fun-loving; exquisite still life and landscape paintings by Ellen Hutchinson. www.jmsgallery.com.

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

OPEN HOUSE: Artists of the mill studios in Manayunk open their studios to the public, Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 5 & 6, Noon-5 p.m. 123-126 Leverington Avenue. http://www.millstudios.org.

“PLANTS FOR ALL REASONS”: Flower and landscape paintings from the studio class of Phoebe Shish, is on display at The Morris Arboretum Upper Gallery, 100 Northwestern Ave., daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through Feb. 10. 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.

SIDELIGHTS: A series of classes and fundraiser for adults and children covering a wide variety of topics such as estate planning, gemstones, Islamic politics and a nature walk sponsored by the Springside Parents Association. From Nov. 1 – 5. Times vary. Reservations required. www.springside.org.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY: 6780 Germantown Ave. Walk-in mosaic art classes every Friday and Sunday 12-5. Projects start at $10. 215-848-2110 or classes@bellamosaic.com.

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

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. A wine tasting gala and fundraiser will be on Nov. 4 from 6-8 p.m. Bus trip to N.Y. (Met or MOMA) will be on Nov. 13. 610-825-0917.

 ***WOODMERE ART MUSEUM: 9201 Germantown Ave. 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 models. Fall exhibits include Senior Artists Initiative, through Jan. 8; The Pennsylvania Impressionist Legacy, through Jan. 8; The Ella May Fell Collection, through Jan. 8. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

BRAIN FOOD

ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway presents special evenings of events designed to connect you with the science of your world. From entertaining stories of scientists in the Wild West, to serious discussions of critical environmental issues, to a thoughtful conversation with a Pulitzer Prize winner, these programs offer something for everyone. All events are free, open to the public and will be held in the academy's auditorium.

BEN FRANKLIN 300 PHILADELPHIA is a yearlong celebration of Benjamin Franklin’s 300th birthday in Philadelphia and its Countryside. Festivities will run from fall 2005 through 2006 and will focus on the world premiere of the international traveling exhibition, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World at the National Constitution Center. www.gophila.com/ben.

ESL CLASSES: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. Won Community Service Center, 423 Abington Ave., Glenside. 215-884-8443.

GOOD SHEPHERD MEDIATION PROGRAM: Victim Offender Conference Training on Thursday through Friday, Nov. 3 – 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for those interested in volunteering at the Mediation program to facilitate meetings between juveniles who have been arrested, their families and those they harmed. $375; for attorneys seeking CLE credits, $425. 215-843-5413 to register.

GERMANTOWN HISTORIC SOCIETY: Sunday, Nov. 6, 1:30 – 5 p.m. Lecture on Victorian furniture by Walter Ritchie. $15 members; /$20 guests. 5501 Germantown Avenue. 215- 844-0515.

JOHN D. MILNER: Presents his book Stone Houses: Traditional Homes of Pennsylvania’s Bucks County and Brandywine Valley at a lecture and book-signing at Cliveden on Cliveden and Morton Streets, Thursday, Nov. 3. Hosted by Cliveden, Wyck and Stenton. Refreshments at 6:30 PM followed by a presentation by architect/ author. $5 for non-members, free to host museum members. Reservations are suggested. 215-848-1777. Books available for purchase.

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

MABA’S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP: Thursday, Nov. 3 at 8:30, 3 local business owners will speak about the display as a silent salesperson. $10, at Cresheim Cottage, 7402 Germantown Ave. 215-548-2958 or info@mtairybiz.com.

MIDDLE EAST LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN: Continues on Thursday, Oct. 28 7-9 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Friends Meeting, 100 E. Mermaid Lane. Paper, pens and postage provided. pjpn@verizon.net.

PARENT/CHILD GROUP AND PARENTING SEMINARS: 15 biweekly sessions (except holidays) on Thursdays from Nov, 17 to June 15 from 10:15 to 11:45 for 10 parents, and their children from birth to thirty months. The Family & Play Therapy Center, two blocks from Lincoln Drive, near the Carpenter Lane Train Station. Kristin Walker or Laura Bishop at 215-844-4321.

SATURDAY SERVICE BEGINS AT THE FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA: The following branches are now open from 1 – 5 p.m. on Saturdays: Chestnut Hill Branch, 8711 Germantown Ave.; Falls of Schuylkill Branch, 3501 Midvale Ave. In addition, Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional, 68 W. Chelten Ave., will be open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 215-686-5322 or www.library.phila.gov.

THE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY: 204 S. Fifth St. “Treasures Revealed: 260 Years of Collecting at the American Philosophical Society” is on display through Dec. 11, Friday –Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 215-440-3400 or www.amphilsoc.org.

THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE, 222 N. 29th St.: Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, has landed at the institute's Tuttleman IMAX Theater. 215-448-1111 or www.fi.edu.

THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER, 525 Arch St.:Constitutional Culture Club, for members only, will meet monthly to discuss current constitutional issues through the lens of new books, film, television, theater, and other cultural activities. Every third Thursdayin Delegates’ Restaurant. Attendees will be expected to have experienced the subject of the month prior to attending the program.  215-409-6700.

THE WON INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE STUDIES: 137. S. Easton Road, Glenside, offers “Abundant Living,” a thought-provoking, restorative cultural program. Programs, ranging from free lectures and open houses, workshops taught by holistic teachers from around the country, a film series and acupuncture wellness groups run throughout the fall. 215-884-8942 or www.woninstitute.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

CHESTNUT HILL FILM GROUP: Tuesday Nights at the Movies, at the Chestnut Hill branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia, 8711 Germantown Ave. 215-248-0977.

ERIC BOGLE: Presented by the Philadelphia Folksong Society on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Germantown Jewish Center, 400 W. Ellet Street. $12 in advance; $17 at the door.

HERE'S TO LIFE CONCERT: Keystone Hospice presents a in memory of Kathleen Carroll on Monday, Nov. 7, at 8 p.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 22 East Chestnut Hill Ave. $25 for concert standard seating, and $50 for the reception and concert preferred seating. Proceeds benefit the renovation and expansion of Keystone House. 215-836-2440, or visit the website at www.keystonecare.com.

KESWICK THEATRE: Saturday, Nov. 5, Richard Nader’s “Moment to Remember” with Charlie Thomas’ Drifters, Shirley Alston Reeves, The Duprees, & The Chffons; Saturday, Nov. 12, David Bromberg and his Big Band; Sun., Nov. 13 Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood ;Friday, Dec. 16, Saturday, Dec. 17, Sunday, Dec. 18 Nutcracker. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

MERMAID INN: Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road. 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.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Times and cover charges vary. Friday, Nov. 4, The Recipe; Nov. 11, Chocolate Genius; Nov. 12, Randy Lippencott & Three Eyed Jacks.Singer/songwriter night is the second Tuesday at 8 p.m. Salsa on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. 7105 Germantown Ave. www.nxnwphl.com or 215-248-1000.

PHILLY SWINGS: Saturday, Nov. 12 Swing Workshops all afternoon, Plus an evening swing dance featuring the fabulous WALT WAGNER BIG SWING BAND

STAGECRAFTERS THEATER: 8130 Germantown Ave., “Coyote on a Fence” by Bruce Graham,” Friday-Sunday Nov. 11-13; Thursday-Sunday Nov. 17-20; Wednesday Nov. 23; Friday-Saturday Nov. 25-26. Times vary. $15; Thursday 2-for-1; students with ID $12. Mature audiences. 215-247-8881 or www.thestagecrafters.org.

THE KING AND I:  Presented by Mount Saint Joseph Academy in Flourtown on Nov. 11, 12, 13, 18 and 19 in the MSJA Auditorium. Tickets available beginning Oct. 26. $10,adults; $7 seniors and children. Call 215-233-3177.

FOR THE KIDS

AUDITION: Prince Music Theater will hold “Dare to Dream” auditions at Plymouth Meeting, Cherry Hill and Willow Grove Malls in Nov. Winner will receive scholarship to the theater’s Summer Studio acting camp. Applications at mall customer service centers.

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

CUMMINS SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE: classes run through December at the Commodore Barry Club on Emlen St. and Carpenter Lane www.cumminsschool.com or 215-508-1763.

GERMANTOWN BEACON CENTER: For free after school and weekend programs including sports, dance, tutoring, driver’s ed. SAT prep, and more. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Haines, between Baynton and Germantown Ave. 215-951-4519; 215-951-4537 or jweems@edeucationWorks-Online.org.

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA is now taking registrations for the upcoming school year. Any girl ages five to 17 is welcome to join the fun. Parents or guardians can register by calling 215-564-2030, ext. 226 or online at www.gssp.org.

KIDS COOKING CLASSES: available at the Water Tower Recreation Center, Hartwell and Ardleigh Streets. Ages eight and up will learn to use basic cooking skills to make delicious meals in a fun setting with an enthusiastic chef. Saturdays Oct. 15 – Nov. 19, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. $50/child. 215-685-9296 to register.

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.

REGINA COELI ACADEMY: Open House on Sunday, Nov. 6,2-4 p.m. A private Catholic elementary school, pre-K to 8, the school is located at 1108 E. Willow Grove Ave. in Wyndmoor. 215-836-2208.

SATURDAY ART CLUB FOR KIDS: For ages six to10, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. through Nov. 19 at Amoeba Art Shop Annex, 7174 Germantown Ave. Cost per session: $25 + $10 materials fee. Register at the shop, online at www.amoebaartshop.com/classes.php or 215-242-4568.

** THE CHESTNUT HILL LIBRARY: 8711 Germantown Ave. Call 215-685-9290 for story time hours.

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

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Ave. and Cherokee St., has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 to10:30 p.m. Lots of new rental skates. $6 admission; $1 guest card; $3 skate rental; open adult hockey, group skating lessons and hockey instruction, figure skating and synchronized skating for all ages and abilities at varied times and days, plus birthday parties. Information: Lydia at 215-247-1759 VM #13.

NATIVE AMERICAN HUNTING:  Familieswill shoot bows and arrows and play games that Lenape children played. Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association, Morris Road, Ambler, on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. $1 per child for members;$3 per child for nonmembers. 215-646-8866.

YOUTH DANCE AND ACTING CLASSES: Forming now at HATCH Dance Theater for ages three and up. Ask about our Big & Little Class for two year olds with their favorite grownup. 215-416-0457. Above O'Doodle's Toy Store at 8333 Germantown Ave.

HEALTH FOOD

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 to 7 p.m.; and at Homelink (Adult Day Center), 6950 Germantown Ave., on the third Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. 800-272-3900.

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. Information / scheduling: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

LOVE YOUR PREGNANT SELF: Full-day retreat for pregnant women on Saturday Nov. 12, 9:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. The Maternal Wellness Center For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen@maternalwellness.org or 215 242 1815. Maternal Wellness Center, 7149 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119

THE FAMILY AND PLAY THERAPY CENTER: “Limit Setting and Discipline” on Thursday, Nov. 10, 10:15 to 11:45. Part of a 10 part series. 6811 Quincy Street, Phila. 215-844-4321.

FREE LUPUS SELF-HELP COURSES: The Lupus Foundation of America, Southeastern PA Chapter, is offering a series of free self-help courses for people with lupus. This seven-week program 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. Topics include basic medical information about lupus, medications and treatments, exercise, doctor-patient communication, fatigue management and relaxation and stress management techniques. All course leaders are women who either have been diagnosed with lupus or have loved ones with lupus. The next session of courses will be starting shortly. For information, call 215-517-5070 or go to www.lupus-sepa.org.

“DRIVING LONGEVITY: KEEPING FIT TO KEEP THE KEYS”: Interactive seminar at Interac Center For Older Adults, Monday, Nov. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. 6012 Ridge Ave. 215-487-1750 by Nov. 10 to register. Free.

JENNIFER JILL SCHWIRZER, SURVIVOR OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA: Speaks about her experiences and her book, Dying to Be Beautiful, Sunday, Nov. 6 at the Chestnut Hill Seventh-day Adventist Church, 8700 Germantown Ave. Lecture at 5 p.m. followed by a meal catered by Expressly Vegetarian Café. $10. Reservation for meal. 215-247-6700.

JEWISH FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICE of Greater Philadelphia offers continuing education programs and classes on health and healing at various locations throughout the region. Women and Depression: An Educational Support Group is planned for November. www.jfcsphil.org or call 215-540-3737.

THE FRIENDS OF THE WISSAHICKON: volunteers needed for the regular monthly workday on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reroute the Cresheim Trail underneath the McCallum Street Bridge Park on St. Martins Lane below  Huron Street. Tools, gloves, and water will be supplied. Call the David Bower at 215-991-3272, or davidbower1@netzero.net.

OPEN HOUSE: Center for Optimal Health Sunday, Nov. 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., offers free mini-medical consultations. 832 Germantown Pike, Suite 3, Plymouth Meeting. 610-239-9901 or www.c4oh.org.

RECYCLE THROUGH COMPOSTING WORKSHOP: Wednesday, Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m. at the Falls of Schuylkill Branch Library, 3501 Midvale Ave. 215-686-5444, then #2 to register. Free. Participants may receive a back yard compost bin.

**THE MORRIS ARBORETUM: 100 Northwestern Ave. 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, winter gardening and floral design, including ikebana. Each Sunday in October at 1 p.m., learn about great plants for your home garden. Wednesday, Nov. 2, 7 – 9 p.m., New and Exciting Perennials. $22 for members; $24 for non-members.  Participants will learn what’s hot in the perennial world, how to take care of the plants and tips for great plant combinations. 215-247-5777, ext. 169, or www.morrisarboretum.org.

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY: A variety of classes throughout the year at various locations, such as basic garden design, botanical illustration with watercolor, basic ikebana, Japanese gardening, Tree Tenders training and city gardening. Walks through the gardens and grounds of Meadowbrook Farms, Chanticleer and elsewhere are also part of the program. 215-988-8869 or www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org.

THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: Saturday, Nov. 5, Team Building and Low Ropes for Girl Scouts from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m for $16 and Teacher Workshop: Recycling with RecycleBank from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm for $20.  Scholarships available. 8480 Hagy's Mill Road, Philadelphia. 215-482-7300, ext. 139. www.schuylkillcenter.org

THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION: Sunday, Oct. 30, from 9:00 to noon. Volunteers needed during Serve the Preserve Day. Restore a natural hedgerow in Lower Gwynedd by weeding and planting trees. WVWA's Adopt-a-Tree program invites people to purchase native trees for $25 to plant on Sat. or WVWA volunteers will plant it for you. The hedgerow is located on Swedesford Road in Lower Gwynedd directly across the street from the Gwynedd Wildlife Preserve. To volunteer or purchase a tree(s), call Bob Adams 215-646-8866 or Bobofwvwa@aol.com or at the office, 12 Morris Road, Ambler.

SOUL FOOD

CHAD LUBOVITCHER: Ima & Me: Jewish mothers and children explore Jewish heritage through stories, songs, crafts and circle time. Children 0 - 2.5, Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30. Jewish Story Hour: Children ages 3-6. Stories present Jewish children and Jewish values and themes. Mondays, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28. 7009 McCallum St. #A, West Mt. Airy. Free with reservations. www.ChabadNWP.org or 215-438-5327.

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

EUCHARIST LECTURE SERIES AT CHESTNUT HILL COLLEGE: Sunday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. “The Eucharist as Bond of Unity and Community” presented by David N. Power. Respondent is Dolores Clerico. A Sunday liturgy will follow all lectures. Sorgenti Area of Martino Hall, 9601 Germantown Ave. 215-248-7075; 215-248-7021 or tatnall@chc.edu. Registration closes the Wednesday prior to the lecture. $3 per lecture; $10 for the series.

FUMCOG: Sunday, Nov. 6, at 12:30. Carillon ringing and short prayer vigil as part of, “For Whom the Bell Tolls” project to protest 14 executions that have taken place since June 26.6023 Germantown Ave.215-765-6970.

GERMANTOWN JEWISH CENTRE SYNAPLEX SHABBAT: Once a month, the GJC presents Synaplex Shabbat. Synaplex Shabbat offers a variety of choices for adults and children of all ages. Some, but not all, programs require advanced RSVP; many programs are free. 400 W. Ellet St.215-844-1507 ext. 19, Synaplex@germantownjewishcentre.org or www.germantownjewishcentre.org.

GRACE EPIPHANY CHURCH: hosts a “Glorious Concert of Gospel Music” at 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 6. by the Men’s Chorus of the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church in Princeton, NJ. Free-will offerings are welcome. Reception follows the concert. Gowen Ave. and Ardleigh St., with ample parking. 215-248-2950.

KEYSTONE HOSPICE: On Thursday, Nov. 2, intergenerational bereavement workshop and Thursday, Nov. 17, creating sacred spaces for healing rituals for adults only presented by art therapist Beth Adelsberger. 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.. Keystone House, 8765 Stenton Ave. Wyndmoor. Open to the community and free. Pre-registration is required. 215-826-2440.

NORTHWEST INTERFAITH MOVEMENT: Make a Joyful Noise, a performing arts showcase including performances by local church and synagogue choirs, dance performances and a libation by storyteller, Linda Goss. Sunday, Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. FUMCOG, 6023 Germantown Ave. Donation of $20; $15 for seniors. 215-843-5600, ext. 207.

ORELAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Papermill and Church Roads, Oreland. Bible preaching and teaching by Pastor Jim Farrell. Sunday worship services: 8:30 & 11; education hour for all ages: 9:45; youth program. www.orelandpres.org or 215-887-7002.

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.

"RECONCILING AND RESISTING: A WORSHIP SERVICE CELEBRATING THE LGBT PRESENCE IN THE CHURCH AND THE MINISTRY OF BETH STROUD”: Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. A special prayer service celebrating the presence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons in the church will be held upon the occasion of Elizabeth Stroud's hearing the next day. 8812 Germantown Avenue, across from the Chestnut Hill Hospital. Childcare provided. 215-242-9321

SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY: Coffee and Contemplation is held on the second Thursday of the month — Nov. 10— at 9:30 a.m., with a gathering prayer and discussion, followed by a time and place for private reflection. 9701 Germantown Ave. 215-248-7222

SSJ CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY: Weekend retreats, presentations and spiritual workshops throughout the year. 9701 Germantown Ave. 215-248-7222.

THE CECILIAN CENTER FOR EARTH, ARTS AND SPIRIT: A full roster of interesting courses for the fall at their location, 100 W. Carpenter Lane and at the Mt. Airy Learning Tree. Brochure/information: 215-894-3364 or ceciliancenter@yahoo.com.

THE CHURCH OF ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS: Evensong Sunday on All Saints’ Sunday, Nov. 6, at 5 p.m. Musical selections presented by the St. Martin’s Adult Choir include works by Jayson Engquist, Lee Hoiby and Craig Phillips. 8000 St. Martins Lane, on the corner of St Martins Lane and Willow Grove Avenue. Monthly series of conversations on bioethical questions on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in Hilary House, located next-door to the church at 8020 St. Martins Lane. The discussions are free and open to the public. Not necessary to attend every session. Sessions take place in Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb. and April. 215-247-7466.

THE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF THE RESTORATION: Thursday morning writing circles at 9:30 a.m. 6900 Stenton Ave.

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN: Coffee and Conversation is on most Sundays at 9:30 a.m. at 6511 Lincoln Drive.Oct. 30, “Are you aware of what you are buying?” Wednesday, Oct. 26th at 7:30 p.m., “Eyewitness in Iraq.” Jim MacMillan, award-winning photo-journalist of the Philadelphia Daily News will speak about his experiences. 215-844-1157

TOURS/TRIPS

1777 WHITEMARSH MILITARY ENCAMPMENT AT HOPE LODGE: Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include skirmishes, prisoner exchange, burial ceremony, colonial cooking, merchants and more. $5 for adults; $4 seniors and youth (6-17); free for Friends of Hope Lodge and children under 5. 215-646-1595 or www.Ushistory.org/hope. Rain or shine.

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.-4 p.m., and by appointment or drop-in on Saturday from 1-4 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.

LAUREL HILL CEMETERY: Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; weekdays, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monthly tours focusing on different aspects of and/or people buried at the site are held on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. $15 3822 Ridge Ave. Reservations: 215-228-8200.

SHAPING FRANKLIN: A tour and special exhibit at Stenton, 4601 N. 18th St., highlighting young Benjamin Franklin’s friendship with his mentor, James Logan. That friendship, between two colonial Philadelphians of very different generations, was built around books, science, ideas and the quest for knowledge – shaping a man who would change America forever: Benjamin Franklin. The exhibit will run through Dec. 15. Tour hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. and other times by appointment. 215-329-7312, www.stenton.org or www.gophila.com/ben.

MISCELLANEOUS

ACADEMY OF SCIENCE: “Frogs - A Chorus of Color”, Nov.12 - May 14. Live frogs from around the world. 4-inch to 24-inch-long northern snakeheads, the “Frankenfish,on display indefinitely. The Academy of Natural Sciences,1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. 215-299-1043 or belardo@acnatsci.org.

BASKETBALL CLINIC:  Sunday, Dec. 4 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For boys & girls, 10-15, conducted by the Chestnut Hill College Men’s Basketball Team and coaches. $40 if registered by Sunday, Nov. 20.$50 day of clinic. Bring lunch. Call Coach Jesse Balcer at 215-248-7091 x1.

THE HIGHLAND HUNT BREAKFAST: Horses, riders in scarlet coats and hounds will participate in a fox-style hunt following a scent and breakfast at The Highlands, 7001 Sheaff Lane, Ft. Washington on Sunday, Nov. 13.Breakfast at 11:30 a.m. or follow the hunt on foot at 9:30 a.m. Reservations required $49/person; children under 10, $17.50. 215-641-2687.

NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER: Tuesday, Nov. 8, Richard Clarke speaks about his book, The Scorpion’s Gate. 6:30 p.m. $9 members; $12 non-members;$6 students. Reservations. Friday, November 11, scapbooking for veterans and letter writing to soldiers for children. 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Veterans to tell their stories at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the “Domestic Tranquility” section of the museum’s permanent exhibition. 11:11 a.m., a moment of silence and a wreath laying ceremony on the Overlook. Free for veterans Friday – Sunday, Nov. 11 – 13. 215-409-6700. National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Independence Mall, Philadelphia. 215-409-6636 or dvfree@constitutioncenter.org.

CHESTNUT HILL WEDNESDAY PEACE VIGIL: Wednesdays, 7:30 in front of Border’s, 8701 Germantown Ave.

 THE ROTARY CLUB OF CHESTNUT HILL: Spaghetti dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 8, at Solaris Grille, 8201 Germantown Ave. Proceeds to benefit charitable activities of the Chestnut Hill Rotary Foundation. Seating times are 4:30-5:30 p.m., 5:30-6:30 p.m., 6:30-7:30 p.m. and 7:30-8:30 p.m. $12, adults;$6, children. Tickets at Carol Schwartz Gallery, 101 Bethlehem Pike; Carson Wagonlit Travel, 8138 Germantown  Ave. and Edwards Jones Investments, 8640 Germantown Ave. or members of the Rotary Club of Chestnut Hill.

VENETIAN SOCIAL CLUB: The Vince Richichi Memorial Fundraiser Beef 'n' Beer Saturday, Nov.5 from 8 p.m. – midnight, 8030 Germantown Avenue, Chestnut Hill  $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Proceeds benefit the Bishop McDevitt Royal Masque. Saturday, Nov 12 at 6:30 p.m., Joe Lupo's Comedy Revue. $25 for buffet dinner and comedy show. 215-247-9858 after 4p.m. or www.venetianclub.org.

“A Taste of Chestnut Hill”: Teenagers, Inc annual fundraiser on Nov. 13 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Springside School; Cherokee and Willow Grove Ave. Music by jazz guitarist, Jimi O’dell. Tickets will be sold on Saturday, Nov. 5 at Borders from 1:00-3:00 p.m. and at Town Hall, 8434 Germantown Ave. 215-248-8810 or Marianne Dwyer, Teen Coordinator at 215-242-4976 or Jane Becker, at 215-247-6293. Babysitting. Meet Anita Brikman, health check and anchor of ABC-Channel 6 news!

ACT REGISTRATION: Friday, Nov. 4 is the deadline for the Dec. 10 ACT exam. Late registration deadline is Nov. 17 ($18 late fee).

APPALACHIAN CLOGGING CLASSES: Every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum streets. $7/session; no pre-registration required. Leather bottom or tap shoes are the most suitable footwear. 215-643-4397 or email info@fiddlekicks.com.

CHESTNUT HILL PEACE VIGIL: Wednesdays, until further notice, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in front of Border’s, Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike.

CONTRA DANCING: Every Thursday evening, 8 to 11 p.m., at Glenside Memorial Hall, Keswick Ave. and Waverly St., Glenside. Live music, with a different band each week. Admission charge. 215-643-4397 or www.thursdaycontra.com.

INTERNATIONAL DANCING: 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.

RECYCLING: All paper, #1 and #2 plastic laundry and beverage bottles only (without caps) and clothing takes place the first Saturday of each month — Nov. 5 — at the Wyndmoor Train station from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Money raised benefits the Chestnut Hill Community Fund. 215-248-8810.

REPLICA OF THE ABRAHAM LINCOLN COFFIN: Thursday, Nov.3 to Saturday, Nov. 5, Kirk and Nice, Plymouth Meeting, 80 Stenton Ave., Plymouth Meeting. 9 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. on weekdays, Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, 7.00 p.m lecture, "Grave Matters" detailing Victorian mourning customs by Ms. Peters-Estes in period costume. Beverages and light fare will be served. Free. Reservations. 610-832-2064.

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Members and friends are invited to bring pictures of community, school or family events or buildings to a “Show and Tell” program on Thursday, Nov. 3, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Springfield, Bethlehem Pike and East Mill Rd., Flourtown.

THE CENTER IN THE PARK: 5818 Germantown Ave. Tuesdays, 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Monette Sudler-Honesty teaches songwriting. Call for a roster of activities: 215-848-7722 or www.centerinthepark.org.

THE LUPUS LOOP 5K WALK & RUN: Sunday, Oct. 30 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

WALK PHILADELPHIA: Dozens of guided architecture tours of the city and region. 215-625-9255 or www.walkphiladelphia.com.WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS: Summit Presbyterian Church (basement).Green and Westview Streets with Maurice Edwards on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Live drums. $15. 215-849-1484.

Y2K9S HOLIDAY BARKETPLACE AND DOGGIE HEALTH FAIR: To benefit Glen Highland Farms. Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m-5 p.m at Y2K9s Dog Sports Club, Wyndmoor. Free. Donations are welcome. 1000 E. Mermaid Lane. www.Y2K9s.net. Microchipping appointments, kmarsh7@verizon.net.

SAVE THE DATE!

A Taste of Chestnut Hill (Fundraiser for Teenagers, Inc.): Nov. 13

Chestnut Hill Historical Society Preservation Potpourri: Dec. 3

CHCA Holiday House Tour: Dec. 3

VOLUNTEER

• Volunteers Are Needed for the Lupus Loop Walk & Run on Sunday, Oct. 30 at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. Call 215-517-5070 or go to www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Ribbid! The Academy of Natural Sciences is seeking volunteer exhibit guides for “FROGS — A Chorus of Colors” (opening November 2005). For information and an application, contact Lois Kuter, volunteer coordinator, 215-299-1029 or kuter@acnatsci.org.

• Monkey Business, the benefit shop for the Friends of CHHC Foundation, is looking for volunteers. They only request three hours a week “and guarantee fun.” Contact Rose Marie Malley, manager, at 215-248-1835.

• Keystone Hospice Schedules New Volunteer Training in October. Volunteers are an integral part of Keystone Hospice, offering a loving presence and support to terminally ill patients and their families. Keystone especially needs volunteers to visit patients who live in Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware and Philadelphia counties. The next training series for people interested in providing patient support will be on Oct. 11 and 14. The training will be held at Keystone House, 8765 Stenton Ave. Wyndmoor. To register, or for more information about volunteer opportunities at Keystone Hospice, contact Lori Curtis, director of volunteers, at 215-836-2440 or lcurtis@keystonecare.com.

• Older Volunteers Sought For RSVP Program. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is seeking senior volunteers to participate in its RSVP program. RSVP, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, is a nationwide volunteer program for adults age 55 and over. Daily, weekly and monthly volunteer opportunities exist for participants to help strengthen their communities. One-time volunteer opportunities are also available for special community events. Depending on the volunteers’ experience and interest and the community’s needs, they will tutor and mentor children, counsel small businesses, distribute food to the homeless, assist at community events, health clinics, museums and more. For more information, call 215-765 –9000, ext. 5544, weekdays between 8:30 and 4:30 p. m.; e-mail RSVP staff at rsvp@pcaphl.org; or visit www.seniorcorps.org.

• 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 Oct. 17 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.

• 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 (two nights per week) in fall 2005 and volunteer for 12 hours a month on the weekends from their own homes. 215-564-5301, ext. 118 or www.womenintransitioninc.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.

• The Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA can always use help with general office work as well as for 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. Call 215-248-8289 or e-mail vsd@CHH.org.

• Fox Chase Cancer Center is looking for volunteers to provide administrative staffing assistance. 215-728-2560 or 215-728-2595.

• 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. 215-438-5711 or 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.

• The 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.

• The Arts & Business Council Of Greater Philadelphia is seeking business professionals to volunteer for the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program. 215-790-3620 or www.artsandbusiness-phila.org.

• Girl Scouts of Southeastern PA is currently looking for adults to volunteer in a variety of capacities. To volunteer, call 215-564-2030, ext. 226 or go online at www.gssp.org.

YOU SHOULD ALSO KNOW:

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.

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.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., continue on Oct. 4 & 18 from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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 at 215-247-2483.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 oroffice@uurestoration.us.

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.

HALF-PRICE TICKETS to cultural events in the area are at www.phillyfunguide.com/funsavers. 

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.

INDEPENDENCE TOASTMASTERS OF FLOURTOWN provides training in leadership and public speaking skills every first and third Tuesday of the month at Donato’s Pizzeria, 1851 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, at 6:30 p.m. Meal is optional. No charge for visitors; semi-annual dues is $24 for members. 215-342-4096.

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.

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.

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.

NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE GUIDE is available by sending your name and address to the Federal Citizen Information Center, Dept. 596M, Pueblo, CO 81009; calling toll-free 1-888-878-3256 and ask for Item 596M; or visiting www.pueblo.gsa.gov to read or print out the guide or hundreds of other FCIC publications for free.

NEW CHESTNUT HILL/MT. AIRY INFANT PLAYGROUP. Do you have an infant born between March and July 2005 as well as an older child or children, and live in Mt. Airy or Chestnut Hill? New playgroup for babies (and caregivers) who have older siblings will be on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.; rotating hosts. Call Jessica at 215-849-3939 or e-mail jessica_b_taylor@alumni.temple.edu.

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.

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

RADON is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. That’s why the American Lung Association of Pennsylvania is offering free radon test kits. The only way to detect radon is to test for it, so long on to www.lunginfo.org to obtain a free test kit today.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers a variety of fitness classes for children, teens and adults throughout the year. 215-482-3900.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

WYCK-STRICKLAND AWARD BENEFIT DINNER: To benefit Wyck and honor Ted and Stevie Wolf. Thursday, Nov. 10 at The Down Town Club in Philadelphia. 215 848-1690 or e-mail at wyck@wyck.org.

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

USEFUL WEB SITES

• Free credit reports now available for Pennsylvania residents. Individuals may obtain a free credit report from Experian, Equifax or Transunion once a year by going to www.annualcreditreport.com.

• Behavioral Health & Mental Retardation Services information for Philadelphia-area residents is at www.philly.networkofcare.org.

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

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

• 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.

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

• 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.

• Learn about lupus at www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Philadelphia Alliance for Better Child Care (ABC) marked the debut of a Web site — www.phillyabc.org — to inform parents, providers and community leaders about early care and education in Philadelphia and released the Philadelphia Guide to Childcare Guides.

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

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

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

• 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 National Constitution Center’s Web site, www.constitutioncenter.org, is chock full of information and activities.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

• 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.

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

• Want to know what’s going on around the state? Go to www.visitpa.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.

• 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.

• 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.

• www.phillyseaport.org takes you to a complete monthly listing of all activities at Independence Seaport Museum (or call the 24-hour programming hotline at 215-413-8621).

• 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.

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