HOLIDAYS ON THE HILL

v On Black Friday, Nov. 26, at noon, Santa Claus will arrive on a fire truck, courtesy of the Philadelphia Fire Department. Santa will be available until 4 p.m. to accept your Christmas lists and pose for photos free of charge along the 8300 block.

v Circle of Trees will be on Friday, Nov. 26 from 2-5 p.m. at Christ Ascension Lutheran Church, 8300 Germantown Ave. After visiting with Santa, kids can make their own ornament to hang on the tree outside. Cookies, cocoa and cider will be served to kid-crafters and their adult companions, followed by a round of Christmas carols.

v The Chestnut Hill Holiday House Tour -- five private residences decorated by area interior designers and florists -- is on Saturday, Dec. 4 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on 150-year-old Summit Street.

v On Sunday, Dec. 5 from 1-3 p.m., two characters from The Pennsylvania Ballet's Nutcracker will visit Chestnut Hill. Kids can pose for photos with the beautiful Sugarplum Fairy and dramatic Mouse King at O'Doodles Toy Store, 8335 Germantown Ave. and Intermission, 8405 Germantown Ave.

v On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights in December, many stores along the Avenue will have extended shopping hours, there will be carolers and live brass bands on the Avenue, a free shopper's trolley, as well as promotions and receptions in many stores and restaurants.

v Girls Night Out is every Thursday night in December. The Chestnut Hill Welcome Center, at 8426 Germantown Ave., has a "Holiday Gift Pass" listing all the special offers and gifts "for the girls."

v On Sundays in December, Santa, whimsical characters and musicians will stroll the Avenue. Chestnut Hill's free shopper's trolley will in operation.

v Giving Back: Between Dec. 1 and 10, the Chestnut Hill Business Association will donate 10% of the proceeds from the sale of Chestnut Hill gift certificates to The Friends of the Wissahickon.

v Winter Holiday programs for children ages 6-10 (younger siblings welcome if parents stay to help) at the Chestnut Hill Library with stories, crafts, games and snacks. Wednesdays, at 6:30 - 8 p.m.: Dec. 1, Hanukkah; Dec. 8, Winter Solstice; Dec. 15, Christmas; Dec. 22, Kwanzaa, presented by storyteller Caroliese Frink Reed. Register: 215-248-0977.

ENTERTAINMENT

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, Nov. 26, DJ Gary O; Saturday, Nov. 27, Zydeco A Go Go; Friday, Dec. 3, Laketrout; Saturday, Dec. 4, Billy Price. Times and cover charges vary. Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa; Sundays at 8, it's classic R&B. Brunch is on Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. 215-248-1000.

KESWICK THEATRE: Friday, Nov. 26, Pink Floyd tribute band The Machine; Saturday, Nov. 27, Will Downing Christmas concert; Tuesday, Nov. 30 & Wednesday, Dec. 1, "Broadway's Spirit of Christmas;" Thursday, Dec. 2, Boys II Men; Friday, Dec. 3, Bela Fleck & the Flecktones; Saturday, Dec. 4, Dar Williams, Catie Curtis & Ana Egge; Sunday, Dec. 5, Blackthorn Christmas Concert. Times and ticket prices vary. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

THE WIZARD OF OZ will be presented by The Royal Masque of Bishop McDevitt High School, Royal Ave. at Mulford Road, Wyncote, on Dec. 3, 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. in the auditorium (handicap accessible). All tickets for evening performances are $8. A matinee performance for senior citizens will be held on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 2 p.m., tickets are $5. 215-887-5575, ext, 238 or www.mcdevitths.org.

CHESTNUT HILL FILM GROUP presents On the Double on Tuesday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Ave. Free. 215-248-0977.

SPINNING INTO BUTTER, by Rebecca Gilman, a provocative and funny exposé of racism and political correctness at a picture perfect Vermont college, will be presented by The Drama Group on Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church of Germantown, 6023 Germantown Ave. 215-844-0724 or www.thedramagroup.org.

THEATER TRIP: Congregation Or Ami is sponsoring a trip to see Menopause The Musical at Society Hill Playhouse, Sunday, Nov. 28. Tickets/information: 610-828-9066.

VARIETY NIGHT AT THE WATER TOWER, Hartwell Lane & Ardleigh St., featuring a Stephen Sondheim revue, will be on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Dinner, snacks & beverages available. 215-657-1906.

ROXBOROUGH CHAMBER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY CONCERT with Giuseppe Agnello conducting works by Leroy Anderson, Handel, Mozart, Sarasate, Johann Strauss and John Philip Sousa; soloists Emil Gogineni, violinist, and Suzanne Meyers, trumpet. Roxborough Presbyterian Church, 8230 Ridge Ave. Free admission; donations welcomed. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4. 215-487-3008.

OLDIES DANCE PARTY with DJs Lou Costello and Billy from Philly will be on Friday, Nov. 26 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.

MERMAID INN: Friday, Nov. 26, Something Black; Saturday, Nov. 27, Psych-a-billy; Friday, Dec. 3, Lava Blue; Saturday, Dec. 4, Brad Litwin. Times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill. 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

PIANIST QUENTIN LANE will be playing at Maia's, 5920 Greene St., on Saturday, Nov. 27, 6-10 p.m. 215-991-4750.

VINICIUS CANTUÁRIA will bring the exotic sounds of Brazilian bossa nova to the Sedgwick Cultural Center, 7137 Germantown Ave., on Saturday, Dec. 4. Tickets: 215-248-9229.

THE DEATH OF THE BLACK JESUS, by David Barr, will play at the Allens Lane Theater, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, through Dec. 4, Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 6 p.m. Tickets: $15 ($2 discount for students & seniors on Sundays). 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org.

MESSIAH (Parts I and III), by George Frederic Handel, featuring The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, The Germantown Oratorio Choir and Keystone State Boychoir will be performed on Sunday, Nov. 28 at 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Germantown, 35 W Chelten Ave. 

215-843-8811 or www.fpcgermantown.org. Free-will offering requested.

THE DONETSK BALLET OF UKRAINE in The Nutcracker. Plymouth/Whitemarsh High School     Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting. Saturday, Nov. 27, at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. $17, student/senior; $28, adult. Tickets and information: 215-849-7950 or 1-800-849-4919

Sponsored by International Ballet Exchange: www.internationalballet.org.

MOSTLY MOTETS will be presented at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 3025 Church Road, Lafayette Hill, on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 4 p.m. This group of 16 professional and amateur singers from the Delaware Valley, area under the direction of Timothy Carpenter, will sing a concert of Christmas music old and new, familiar and unique. Free and open to the public. 610-828-3098.

DRUM CIRCLE -- Saturday, Nov. 27. Experience the rhythm and energy of hand-drumming.  No experience necessary. Bring your own drum or rhythm instrument or use one of ours. $10. The Second Wind Center, 98 Bethlehem Pike. 215-248-9642.

HOLIDAY MASK PARADE GALA, sponsored by the Urban League Guild, will be on Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. at the Walnut Hill Inn, 6108 Germantown Ave. Dining, dancing, prizes for the prettiest and most unusual, most individual mask. $. Plenty of free parking. 215-848-8176.

"FROM KINEHORA TO KUNI-AYLAND: in honor of 350 years of Jewish Life in North America" will be presented by composer Binyumen (Ben) Schaechter and his nine-year old daughter, Reyna, at the Sholom Aleichem Club meeting on Sunday, Dec. 5. The performance will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Gratz College, 7605 Old York Road, Melrose Park. The meeting is open to the public and guest admission is $7 for adults and $2 for students. 215-233-2668 or www.sholomaleichemclub.org.

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.

A TARANTELLA OF TALES, presented by the Valley Forge Children's Theatre, an adult-acted theater for children, will be on Dec. 3-12 at Calvary Episcopal Church, 4th Avenue & Fayette Street, Conshohocken. For ages K and up. $8.50. Tickets: 610-935-1351 or www.vfct.org.

THEATER ARIEL'S "2 BECOME 1 - REFLECTIONS ON INTERFAITH FAMILIES" is being presented by Congregation Beth Or, Penllyn Blue Bell Pike & Dager Road, Spring House, on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. This interactive, thought-provoking, humorous performance, aims to trigger discussion about personal identity, holiday and ritual observance, and family dynamics. Free; suggested for ages 12+. RSVP: 215-646-5806.

ARTS

WYNDMOOR ARTIST LAURA PRITCHARD will present a solo exhibition of her witty and imaginative unique portraits from Dec. 1 - Jan. 2 at The Muse Gallery, 60 North 2nd Street, Old City. Pritchard is known for her mastery of the ancient process of batik. There will be an opening reception on Sunday, Dec. 5, from 2-6 p.m. 215-627-5310.

WEARABLE & DECORATIVE ARTS EXHIBIT: 12 local artists showing a variety of unique crafts will be on display through Dec. 23, with an opening reception on Thursday, Dec. 2, from 6 - 9 p.m., at the Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum Street. 215-248-0546 or www.allenslane.org.

HAHN GALLERY, 8439 Germantown Ave., will show Richard Yeager's "Recent Paintings: France & Italy," through Nov. 30. 215-247-8439 or www.hahngallery.com.

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-5; and by appointment. Through  Dec. 31: oil paintings by Zhang Wei; sculpture by Moore College professor Paul Hubbard. 215-248-4649.

FIRST FRIDAY AT TESSERAE STUDIO GALLERY: craft show opening and gift-wrapping soiree. Showcase of work by local artists and craftspeople from Dec. 3-12. Make a purchase and get creative at the "Gift Wrap Buffet" with wrapping paper and trimmings to get your gift ready for giving. 6780 Germantown Ave. 215-848-2110 or www.bellamosaic.com.

LUMINOSITY, an Art in City Hall exhibit which includes the work of Chestnut Hill artist Patricia Ingersoll, will be on display through Jan. 28 on the northeast corner of City Hall, second and fourth floors.

CHESTNUT HILL ARTIST NIC COVIELLO is showing his botanical works on paper -- illuminated drawings -- at the Nexus Gallery, 137 N. 2nd St. through Nov. 28. 215-629-1103.

"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 at www.GallerySaintMartin.com.

** WOODMERE ART MUSEUM is showing a 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. Paintings by Nelson Shanks will be on display through Jan. 16. 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.

MOSAIC MENORAH AND ORNAMENT MAKING CLASS, Saturday, Dec. 4, 1-4 p.m. $30 includes materials. Using colored glass, mirror, china shards and found objects, create holiday keepsakes. Tesserae Studio Gallery, 6780 Germantown Ave. Register: 215-848-2110 or www.bellamosaic.com.

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.

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.

KIDS CARE 11. The Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Ave., presents Kids Care 11, a collaboration with MANNA (Metropolitan AIDS Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance), WXPN's Kids Corner (88.5 FM), and students and teachers from 20 public and private schools, to create art for people homebound with HIV and AIDS, through Dec. 20. 215-247-0948 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

THE GERMANTOWN WOMEN'S Y, 5820 Germantown Ave., is offering a series of art workshops for children (Nov. 27-Dec. 18) and adults (starting Nov. 29). Registration: 215-438-6266.

SEDGWICK CULTURAL CENTER FINE CRAFT SHOW: fine crafts on display and for sale through Dec. 23. Gallery hours:  Friday 6-9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 7137 Germantown Ave., 215- 248-9229.

NATURE/GARDENS

** THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE) is at 8480 Hagy's Mill Road, Roxborough. Information/pre-registration for all programs: 215-482-7300.

THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION, 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, perennial gardening, landscape design and floral design. 100 Northwestern Ave.; $; 215-247-5777 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

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

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY offers a variety of classes throughout the year at various locations. Call 215-988-8869 or go to www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org for details.

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 most 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. 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. Drama club and drill team programs are also available. 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. 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 sports, arts and other activities for kids. Details: 215-482-3900.

HATCH DANCE THEATER offers dance and creative movement classes for youngsters; and teen, college and adult acting and modern dance classes, with a college student discount. 215-416-0457.

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Avenue and Cherokee Street, has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m.; open adult hockey on Saturday, 11 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.; group skating lessons and hockey instruction for all ages at varied times and days; and fun birthday parties. 215-247-1759.

LUNCH WITH SANTA at Mount Saint Joseph Academy, 120 W. Wissahickon Ave., Flourtown, will be on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 11:30 a.m. This special event, sponsored by the Alumnae Association, includes entertainment, arts and crafts to make and take home, raffle prizes, a photo with Santa and a delicious lunch. All Mount alumnae and friends are invited to bring their children, nieces, nephews and grandchildren; Mount students are welcome to bring young siblings, relatives and friends. Cost is $15 per person. Reservations: 215-233-3177, ext. 334

HEALTH/FITNESS

NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL HOSPICE MONTH, a celebration that not only pays tribute to the professional hospice providers dedicated to the care of the terminally ill, but also provides an opportunity to increase public awareness about available choices in end-of-life care.

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES: Diet, Exercise, Medications, Tuesday, Nov. 30, noon-2 p.m., Chestnut Hill Senior Center, Chestnut Hill Village, 7999 Crittenden St. A CHH certified diabetes educator gives updates on the latest ways to manage diabetes. Complimentary lunch. Call 215-753-2000 to register. Free.

"ASTHMA: ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MINIMIZE THE IMPACT." Saturday, Dec. 4, 2-3 p.m. in the Chestnut Hill Library Meeting Room. Co-sponsored by the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Chestnut Hill Library. Free.

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.

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

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.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., will be on Tuesdays, Nov. 30 and Dec. 14 from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

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

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

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

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers a variety of fitness classes for adults throughout the year. They are also starting a teen basket ball league starting in January. 215-482-3900.

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

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

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

LIVING BEYOND BREAST CANCER will host a teleconference, "Fertility and Pregnancy After Breast Cancer: Options and Challenges," from 7-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 2. Elizabeth S. Ginsburg, M.D., of Brigham and Women's Hospital and Ann H. Partridge, M.D., MPH, of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, will discuss the latest research and answer audience questions. The teleconference is free. To register, visit www.lbbc.org or call 610-645-4567.

BOOK SCENE

HISTORIC SACRED PLACES OF PHILADELPHIA, by Dr. Roger Moss and photographer Tom Crane, will be discussed at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 2 at Cliveden, 6401 Germantown Ave. The authors, who also produced Historic Houses of Philadelphia, will also sell and sign their new book. 215-848-1777.

THE MYSTERY BOOK GROUP at Andorra Library, Andorra Shopping Center, will be discussing She Walks These Hills, by Sharyn McCrumb, on Monday, Nov. 29, at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. 215-685-2552.

EDUCATION

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, Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Reservations: 267-440-2576.

AMERICAN REVOLUTION ROUND TABLE of Philadelphia will hear historian and researcher Todd Braisted discuss "General Anthony Wayne's attack on the Bull's Ferry Blockhouse, 1780, New Jersey" at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1, at the General Lafayette Inn, 646 Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill. Free and open to the public. 215-686-3058 or www.geocities.com/arrtop.

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.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT THROUGH BOARD LEADERSHIP. Advance your expertise. Become a motivator with influence. Make an impact on the arts. This Arts & Business Council Business On Board® program trains business professionals and attorneys on nonprofit board governance. Graduates of the program are then matched with boards and committees of dynamic arts and cultural organizations. Apply before Dec. 15 to be part of the next training session that begins in January 2005. 215-790-3769 or snegus@philachamber.com.

CITIZEN'S CAFÉ, Thursday, Dec. 2, noon - 1 p.m. and every first and third Thursday of the month at the National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St. on Independence Mall, brings together journalists and guest experts for lively conversation and heated debate. Free. 215-409-6600 or www.constitutioncenter.org.

RELIGION

UNITARIAN SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN, 6511 Lincoln Drive, offers "Coffee and Conversation" on most Sundays at 9:30 a.m. On Nov. 28, Helen Burke, chaplain at Keystone Hospice, and Alix Amor, bereavement director, will offer insights into their duties and responsibilities discussing the end of life. For Information call 215-844-1157 or visit www.usguu.org.

DR. ALI B. ALI-DINAR will speak on "The Crisis in Darfur, Sudan: Are We Our Brother's Keeper?" at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration, 6900 Stenton Ave., on Sunday, Nov. 28, at 11 a.m. Dr. Ali-Dinar is outreach director for the University of Pennsylvania African Studies Center and a Sudanese national. 215-247-2561.

A STUDY OF THE PSALMS: "Out-of-Control Joy and Impolite Honesty before the Throne," with Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggeman, will be presented at St. Thomas' Church, Whitemarsh, Bethlehem Pike and Camp Hill Road, on Saturday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-noon. Pre-registration is $15 per event ($20 at the door). 215-233-3970 or www.stthomaswhitemarsh.org.

A "FARBRENGEN", AN EVENING OF CHASSIDIC STORY AND SONG will take place on Thursday, Dec. 2, 8-9:30 p.m., at 7009 McCallum St., Apt A, in West Mt. Airy, to celebrate the 207th anniversary of the liberation of R. Schneur Zalman, author of the Tanya and the founder of the Chabad Movement. RSVP: 215-438-5327 or www.chabadnwp.org.

BIRTH NARRATIVES OF JESUS. Beginning on Sunday, Nov. 28, St. Martin's will host a three-week Sunday Forum series titled "Once in Royal David's City: The Birth Narratives of Jesus." Participants will explore and compare the Gospel accounts of the birth of Jesus. All Sunday Forums take place at 10 a.m. in the Parish Hall. The Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is located at 8000 St. Martin's Lane, on the corner of St. Martin's Lane and Willow Grove Ave. 215-247-7466.

ADVENT CELEBRATION WITH CAROL SINGING: "Love Sings the Heart Home," a concert of the nativity, with Susan Swain, soprano and Jeannie Troutman, pianist/organist. Sunday, Dec. 5, 3 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 654 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown. 215-836-4658. All are welcome; reception to follow.

FALL CONCERT. The Chancel Choir Mount Zion Baptist Church of Germantown is presenting the Sanctuary Choir of Vine Memorial Baptist Church, directed by John Custis, on Sunday, Nov. 28 at 4 p.m. The freewill offering concert service will be held at the church, 41 West Rittenhouse St. 215-844-7614.

FESTIVAL OF HYMNS CHOIR with instrumental ensemble directed by Harrilese DuRant Miles, presents "A Musical Celebration of Thanksgiving for Advent and Christmas." This service of praise will take place at Janes Memorial United Methodist Church, 47 East Haines Street, Sunday, Nov. 28, at 4 p.m. Free-will offering. 215-844-9564.

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

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.

WOMEN'S STUDY GROUP, led by Or Ami educational director Gloria Becker, takes place on Fridays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 9:30 a.m. at Or Ami, 708 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill. 610-828-9066.

"SHOULD ISRAEL TEAR DOWN THE FENCE?" Discussion group with Rabbi William Kuhn. Sundays, Dec. 5, 12 & 19, 10-11 a.m. at Rodeph Shalom, 615 North Broad Street, Philadelphia. How can Israel address security needs in ethical ways? How can Israel be a "light to the nations?" This course will further understanding of the history, reality and hopes for Israel and her neighbors. Free & open to the public.

MISCELLANEOUS

THE CHESTNUT HILL HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR is on Saturday, Dec. 4 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

LADIES DAY OUT, a "Shopping Extravaganza" fundraiser, will take place Sunday, Dec. 5 from noon - 5 p.m. at La Salle College High School, 8605 Cheltenham Ave., Wyndmoor. Tickets, $30 at door, include food, drinks and door prizes.

2004 GALA OF TREES at Historic Mather Mill, presented by The Friends of the Hope Lodge & Mather Mill, 553 South Bethlehem Pike, on Friday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 5, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Admission charge (includes house tour); children under 5 are free. Raffles, door prizes, bake sales, refreshments and free parking. 215-646-1595.

MAXWELL MANSION HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: Treasures for sale, holiday music and Dickens readings. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 4 & 5 from 1-4 p.m. $5 for adults, $3 for children. 200 W. Tulpehocken St. 215-438-1861 or www.maxwellmansion.org.

TOAST THE ARTS, a wine-tasting fundraiser, will be held by the Wissahickon Art Center (WAC) on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 6 p.m. Radio personality and lecturer John McNulty will lead the guests in a series of wine tasting to educate and titillate. $40 per person. Call WAC at 215-482-4860 or e-mail wissahickon@aol.com for reservations and directions to the event.

RECYCLING of all kinds of paper, #1 and #2 plastic containers and more takes place the first Saturday of each month -- Dec. 4 -- at the Wyndmoor Train station from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Money raised benefits the Chestnut Hill Community Fund. 215-248-8810.

"HEART OF THE HAMPTONS" discussion will be on Friday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. at the Chestnut Hill Senior Center, 7999 Crittenden St.

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.

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.

"TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION" is on display at The Franklin Institute Science Museum, 222 North 20th Street, through January 23. 215-448-1200 or www.fi.edu.

LEWIS & CLARK: THE NATIONAL BICENTENNIAL EXHIBITION will be on display at The Academy of Natural Sciences through March 20, 2005. 1-800-347-9000 or go to www.acnatsci.org/lewisclark.

FREE ADMISSION TO THE NATIONAL LIBERTY MUSEUM, 321 Chestnut Street in Old City, Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 27 & 28 and Dec. 4 & 5. Free admission includes free holiday-themed crafts, such as a project to create holiday cards for American troops overseas. Young visitors receive a free copy of the National Liberty Museum's "Celebrations" activity booklet, which highlights the shared spirit of peace in diverse cultural celebrations across the globe. 215-925-2800 or www.libertymuseum.org.

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

HOLIDAY GREENS SALE AND OPEN HOUSE at Bartram's Garden, 54th and Lindbergh Blvd., Saturday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., will feature premium wreaths, poinsettias, loose greens, and handcrafted decorations. Free house tours, children's activities and colonial cooking demonstrations. Free parking; located on the 36 trolley route. 215-729-5281 or www.bartramsgarden.org.

** Member of Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

THE CHESTNUT HILL HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR is on Saturday, Dec. 4 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m..

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, 1207 Chestnut St. Call 215-851-1748 for more information or to reserve a spot.

… 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.

… Want to know what's going on around the state? Go to www.visitpa.com.

… 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 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.

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.