By Bill Gelman
The Vendemmia Foundation shared some news on its Facebook page that no one likes hearing: NOTICE OF CANCELLATION. That’s right, the Vendemmia Festival, which was scheduled for Oct. 1, has been canceled. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson’s office and the Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation notified the group that Stephen Girard Park, 2101 W. Shunk St., which is home to the festival, is scheduled for maintenance. They are awaiting new concrete sidewalks around the park, making the site unavailable due to to the construction timeline. The first Vendemmia Wine Festival took place 20 years ago in the courtyard of Saint Agnes Hospital on South Broad Street, and has served as a fundraiser for hundreds of local students. The foundation is dedicated to preserving Italian culture; to advancing the understanding of Italian heritage and the art of winemaking; to fostering pride in community; and to supporting the educational needs of students of Italian heritage in South Philadelphia. The Vendemmia Festival is expected to return in 2018. …
In other Girard Estate news, Tap Room on 19th, 2400 S. 19th St., is doing its part to help Stephen Girard Elementary School, 1800 Snyder Ave., gear up for the new school year. There will be a collection box, and anyone who stops by on Wednesday, Sept. 6 to drop off a contribution will get a free Lord Chesterfield as a thank you. All school supplies are welcome, but printer/copy paper, notebooks, pencils, markers, crayons, glue sticks, paper towels and tissues are some of the suggestions. Visit facebook.com/TaproomOn19th…
Former South Philly Review Difference Maker Ella Best and her Don’t Shoot…I Want a Future organization is hosting its Ninth Annual Back to School Book Bag Drive Sunday (Aug. 27) at Wharton Square Park, 23rd and Wharton streets, from 2:30 to 6 p..m. There will be fun, games, food, prizes and more. Email ebest7851@harcum.edu or call 267–748–4128. …
The Lower Moyamensing Civic Association is holding its fall flea market on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. (rain date is Sept. 24). The event will be set up along the highly trafficked South Broad Street between Snyder Avenue and Jackson Street (street-side in front on South Philly High School, 2101 S. Broad St.). Previous events have featured more than 60 vendors and 1,000 shoppers. Event proceeds will benefit the civic association. Neighborhood residents, professional vendors, crafters and artists are welcome to apply for tables. Spaces are $20 before Sept. 1 and $30 after. Visit lomophilly.org/flea-market.
Have news to share? Email Editor Bill Gelman, news@southphillyreview.com.
