Category: CONSUMER NEWS

Secure Your Finances Before Obtaining a Car Loan

image courtesy of unsplash.com

(Gloucestercitynews.net)(February 15, 2020)–Getting a car loan requires you to be responsible. You need to pay the loan each month for three to five years. There\’s a chance that your car could get taken away from you if you fail to pay the required amount. Therefore, you must secure your finances first before you obtain any loan.  If you are looking for first-class service and a quick response to your loan request look no further than

Omacl Loans.

Make sure you don’t have any existing major debt

You can’t get a major loan if there’s an existing loan that you still keep paying. Unless you have a huge monthly income, keeping up with two significant loans that require monthly payments would be tough. You can wait until you already finished one loan before getting another, or at least be close to completion.

Check your income source

You should only take on paying a monthly car loan if you have a stable income source. Otherwise, it will be a burden. You will keep worrying about where you’re going to get the amount to help you pay the loan for the following month. If you have a secure job, you can pursue this transaction. If you’re still on probation, or you only recently started your job, you need to think twice.

Understand the terms

Not all car loan companies are the same. Some of them offer reasonable terms. You need to understand what it entails for you to secure a car loan. If you can find

no deposit car finance

, it might be great news. You can drive your preferred car without the need to pay anything first. However, the monthly fees might be a lot higher than usual due to the lack of initial payment. If you already understand the terms, you will know if you chose the right car loan company.

Compare the cars

It also helps if you know the car models. You can check if an option is good enough considering its price, or if there are other better choices. Take your time to review the options using different standards. Once you find the car model that you want, it will be easier to proceed with any transaction.

A no-deposit deal could be the perfect choice

You might have second thoughts about the idea of obtaining a no-deposit car deal. You think that it’s too risky. The truth is that you can still get a great deal if you compare the terms first. The monthly fees might be affordable enough. Even the fees for delayed payments aren’t as terrible as you think. The reason why you have an unfair view is that you only heard what other people said about this loan. Upon further research, you will realize that it could be the perfect deal.

Once you conclude that you will pursue this deal, you need to start gathering the requirements. You also need to ask different car loan companies for quotes. Confirm the information found online and start submitting the documents for approval. Once you get approved, you need to be responsible for the monthly payments.

CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH ON THE KIMMEL CENTER CULTURAL CAMPUS

March 2020 programming includes a renowned Broadway revival,

celebrated artists from across comedy, jazz, chamber & orchestral music, and more

(Philadelphia, PA, February 13, 2020) ––The Kimmel Center Cultural Campus, along with Resident Company support from Philadelphia Chamber Music Society and The Philadelphia Orchestra, celebrates Women’s History Month in March 2020 with an array of programming honoring a breadth of female artistry and expression. Additionally, in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, Philadelphia and Drexel University’s Vision, 2020’s “Women 100” National Women’s Equality Initiative will host a series of events, including the

Seat at the Table

FREE and interactive exhibition, opening in March and running through September in the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza.

“Representation of women is one of our top priorities when presenting world-class art, as we continue to fulfill our mission to engage the Philadelphia region’s diverse communities with art through performance and education,” said Anne Ewers, President & CEO of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. “Throughout Women’s History Month, and all season long, we partner with our Resident Companies to bring you stories about women and female artistic champions, from comedy to Broadway, jazz to dance, chamber music to the orchestra. It is imperative to us that our audiences, particularly our growing student attendees, see themselves reflected onstage. Furthermore, it is an honor to serve as this institution’s President & CEO, with more than half of its dedicated staff made up women, and 51% female at the executive level.”

Women’s History Month-specific programming on the Kimmel Center Cultural Campus includes

Hello, Dolly!

, called “The Best Show of the Year” by NPR and “Classic Broadway at its best” by

Entertainment Weekly

, running at the Academy of Music February 19 through March 1. Comedian

Paula Poundstone

, most recently known from NPR’s #1 show,

Wait, Wait…Don\’t Tell Me!

, returns to the Kimmel Center’s Merriam Theater on Saturday, March 7; Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer

Kristin Chenoweth

returns to Verizon Hall on Friday, March 13; while the Kimmel Center Cultural Campus’ jazz series continues with Grammy Award-nominated

Jazzmeia Horn

in Perelman Theater on Saturday, March 14; and Emmy nominated comedian, actor, writer, director, and executive producer

Ilana Glazer

brings her

Horny 4 Tha Polls

to the Merriam Theater on March 21.

With the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, Philadelphia and Drexel University’s Vision 2020’s “Women 100” National Women’s Equality Initiative will host a series of events, enlightening attendees to challenges; aiming to refocus attention for 50-50 leadership in business; and impacting the 2020 election by encouraging all women to vote. The Kimmel Center will host a

Seat at the Table

exhibition

.

On Thursday, March 12,

Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México de SILVIA LOZANO

plays the Merriam Theater, reflecting the work of Mexico’s leading researchers and practitioners of folklore, dance, music, and costumes. Silvia Lozano is a distinguished artist, internationally recognized as a leading promoter of authentic Mexican folklore. She has dedicated herself to sharing the beauty of music, dance, costumes, and Mexican traditions with people around the world.

Join the Kimmel Center for a presentation of Dr. Kara Cooney, professor of Egyptology, at the Merriam Theater for

National Geographic Live! When Women Ruled the World

on Wednesday, March 18. Learn about women often neglected in history books, whose undeniable power and influence allowed them to work both with and against the patriarchal society.  Cleopatra used her sexuality – and her money – to build alliances with warlords of the Roman empire. Neferusobek was the first woman to definitively take the title of King. Neferiti is known more for her beauty than for bringing a fractured Egypt together. What can we learn from how these women ruled? Dr. Cooney shares some illuminating answers.

The Kimmel Center Cultural Campus is home to eight beloved Resident Companies – this Women’s History Month, the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society presents

Pamela Frank, Violin and Peter Serkin, Piano

on Tuesday, March 3. These beloved chamber musicians unite to perform an unforgettable evening of Bach. Grammy Award-winning soprano

Ana María Martínez

graces the Perelman Theater on Friday, March 13 for an all-Spanish recital of works by Rodrigo, Granados, Lecuona, de Falla, Moré, Capó, and selected zarzuela.

Takács Quartet

performs a renowned Beethoven performance on Sunday, March 15. Diving into the emotional depths of Beethoven’s music, the

Belcea Quartet

presents several of his famous string quartets on March 17 and 18. On Tuesday, March 31,

Jörg Widmann, clarinet; Tabea Zimmermann, viola; and Dénes Várjon, piano

perform a fantastical program featuring three of Europe’s most versatile and intriguing artists and Widmann’s contemporary take on classic fairy tales. In addition, The Philadelphia Orchestra joins the celebration with

Porgy and Bess

, conducted by Marin Alsop and starring soprano Angel Blue, March 5 – 7, and with Composer-in-Residence Gabriela Lena Frank for

BeethovenNOW: Symphonies 2 & 3

, March 19 – 22. As part of the latter program, the Orchestra premieres a new work by Jessica Hunt, a student of Frank’s Creative Academy. Both programs are part of the Orchestra’s

WomenNOW series

, embracing and exploring the range, creativity, and power of women in music on the podium, in composition, and on stage.

For additional information, visit

www.kimmelcenter.org

.

EPA Says: No Need To ‘Warm Up’ Modern Vehicles In Cold Weather

CAR CARE COUNCIL BE CAR CARE AWARE

(NAPSI)—When the weather is cold, many motorists wonder if they need to let their vehicle “warm up” or idle before driving. In fact, today’s modern cars are ready to drive in cold temperatures without

You may have to bundle up before you drive in cold weather but your modern car is ready to go, with no need to idle a while

.

excessive idling.

The idea of idling before driving dates back to when cars were built with carburetors. With new fuel-injection technology, complex computer systems and thinner synthetic oils, drivers don’t need to warm up their cars before hitting the road.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “When a car idles for more than 30 seconds, it has several negative effects, such as increasing air pollution unnecessarily, wasting fuel and money and causing excessive wear or even damaging a car’s engine components, including cylinders, spark plugs and the exhaust system. Contrary to popular belief, idling isn’t an effective way to warm up most car engines.”

“Unless you are trying to defrost the windshield or warm the interior of your car, idling is not required for today’s vehicles,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “In most cases, idling longer than 30 seconds is unnecessary, even on the coldest days. The best way to warm up your car’s engine is to drive gently at the start. Remember, a vehicle gets zero miles per gallon when idling and the result is lower fuel economy and wasted money.”

The Car Care Council has a free 80-page Car Care Guide for motorists that features several pages of fuel economy and environmental awareness tips. Available in English and Spanish, the popular guide uses easy-to-understand, everyday language rather than technical automotive jargon and fits easily in a glove box.

The non-profit Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers.

To order a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit the council’s consumer education website at

www.carcare.org

.

New Jersey Allows Residents To Choose What Gender They Want To Be

TRENTON – New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Sue Fulton today announced that customers may now change the M/F gender designation on their New Jersey driver license or non-driver identification card without a doctor’s note.

The “Declaration of Gender Designation Change for New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Driver License or Non-Driver Identification Card” form is available at NJMVC Agencies and can be downloaded from the NJMVC website,

njmvc.gov

, and no longer requires the signature of a health care practitioner.

Customers who choose to change their M/F gender designation must surrender their current driver license or identification card and obtain a duplicate for the standard fee of $11.00.

“We are proud to serve one of the most diverse states in the nation, and it is a bedrock principle for us at the NJMVC that we represent and treat every individual with respect and dignity,” said Chief Fulton. “Allowing customers to change their gender designation to reflect their gender identity is deeply important for showing that all New Jerseyans are valued equally. We are proud to stand with our LGBTQ community.”

The ability to change gender designation by self-attestation follows the passage of the “Babs Siperstein Law,” named after the noted transgender activist, which was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy on July 3, 2018.

Later this year, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will offer an \”X\” gender option on New Jersey driver licenses and non-driver identification cards for non-binary New Jersey residents.

NJBIA Supporting Youth Wage Tax Credit Bill

The New Jersey Business & Industry Association is supporting legislation heard in the Senate Labor Committee today that would provide tax credits to employers who hire

workers under 18 years old.

The bill, S-718, is designed to help mitigate the impacts of youth hiring following the signing of New Jersey\’s $15-an-hour minimum wage law signed last year.

\”One of the unintended consequences of increasing the minimum wage so dramatically is an expected decrease in the employment of high school students,\” said NJBIA President and CEO Michele N. Siekerka, Esq. \”Our members have told us that as the minimum wage increases, they will be less likely to hire youth workers with limited skills or less experience.

\”Without this legislation, many young workers will have challenges attaining that after-school or summer-vacation work experience that has helped set so many of us on our way in the workforce,\” Siekerka said. \”This bill would make it more feasible for an employer to hire someone under age 18.\”

Specifically, the bill provides an employer with a refundable tax credit against the corporation business tax or the gross income tax, as applicable, for the extra wages and payroll taxes paid to a worker under age 18.

The bill is one of several measures NJBIA is advocating for to help mitigate the negative effects of the minimum wage increase. Others include an \”economic off ramp\” to suspend minimum wage increases in a severe recession or after a natural disaster, providing tax credits to businesses with 10 or fewer employees, and a requirement to study the impact of the minimum wage increase on the economy.

2019 Internet Crime Report Released

Internet-enabled crimes and scams show no signs of letting up, according to data released by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in its

2019 Internet Crime Report

. The last calendar year saw both the highest number of complaints and the highest dollar losses reported since the center was established in May 2000.

IC3 received 467,361 complaints in 2019—an average of nearly 1,300 every day—and recorded more than $3.5 billion in losses to individual and business victims. The most frequently reported complaints were phishing and similar ploys, non-payment/non-delivery scams, and extortion. The most financially costly complaints involved

business email compromise

,

romance or confidence fraud

, and spoofing, or mimicking the account of a person or vendor known to the victim to gather personal or financial information.

Donna Gregory, the chief of IC3, said that in 2019 the center didn’t see an uptick in new types of fraud but rather saw criminals deploying new tactics and techniques to carry out existing scams.

“Criminals are getting so sophisticated,” Gregory said. “It is getting harder and harder for victims to spot the red flags and tell real from fake.”

While email is still a common entry point, frauds are also beginning on text messages—a crime called smishing—or even fake websites—a tactic called pharming.

“You may get a text message that appears to be your bank asking you to verify information on your account,” said Gregory. “Or you may even search a service online and inadvertently end up on a fraudulent site that gathers your bank or credit card information.”

Individuals need to be extremely skeptical and double check everything, Gregory emphasized. “In the same way your bank and online accounts have started to require two-factor authentication—apply that to your life,” she said. “Verify requests in person or by phone, double check web and email addresses, and don’t follow the links provided in any messages.”

“Criminals are getting so sophisticated. It is getting harder and harder for victims to spot the red flags and tell real from fake.”

Donna Gregory, chief, IC3

Shifts in Business Email Compromise

Business email compromise (BEC), or email account compromise, has been a major concern for years. In 2019, IC3 recorded 23,775 complaints about BEC, which resulted in more than $1.7 billion in losses.

These scams typically involve a criminal spoofing or mimicking a legitimate email address. For example, an individual will receive a message that appears to be from an executive within their company or a business with which an individual has a relationship. The email will request a payment, wire transfer, or gift card purchase that seems legitimate but actually funnels money directly to a criminal.

In the last year, IC3 reported seeing an increase in the number of BEC complaints related to the diversion of payroll funds. “In this type of scheme, a company’s human resources or payroll department receives an email appearing to be from an employee requesting to update their direct deposit information for the current pay period,” the report said. The change instead routes an employee’s paycheck to a criminal.

The Importance of Reporting

“Information reported to the IC3 plays a vital role in the FBI’s ability to understand our cyber adversaries and their motives, which, in turn, helps us to impose risks and consequences on those who break our laws and threaten our national security,” said Matt Gorham, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “It is through these efforts we hope to build a safer and more secure cyber landscape.” Gorham encourages everyone to use IC3 and reach out to their local field office to report malicious activity.

Rapid reporting can help law enforcement stop fraudulent transactions before a victim loses the money for good. The FBI’s Recovery Asset Team was created to streamline communication with financial institutions and FBI field offices and is continuing to build on its success. The team successfully recovered more than $300 million for victims in 2019.

Besides stressing vigilance on the part of every connected citizen, the IC3’s Donna Gregory also stressed the importance of victims providing as much information as possible when they come to IC3. Victims should include every piece of information they have—any email addresses, account information they were given, phone numbers scammers called from, and other details. The more information IC3 can gather, the more it helps combat the criminals.

In 2019, the Recovery Asset Team was paired with the

Money Mule

Team under the IC3’s Recovery and Investigative Development Team. This effort brings together law enforcement and financial institutions to use the data provided in IC3 complaints to gain a better view of the networks and methods of cyber fraudsters and identify the perpetrators.

The new effort allowed IC3 to aggregate more than three years of reports to help build a case against an active group of criminals who were responsible for damaging crimes that ranged from cryptocurrency theft to online extortion. The ensuing investigation by the FBI’s San Francisco Field Office resulted in the arrest of three people.

Read the full

2019 Internet Crime Report

. To stay up to date on common online scams and frauds or report a crime, visit

ic3.gov

.

Select image to view full PDF report

Resources:

Full Report:

2019 Internet Crime Report

Press Release: FBI Releases the Internet Crime Complaint Center

2019 Internet Crime Report

The Garden State Film Festival

ASBURY PARK, NJ

– Celebrating its 18th Anniversary, the artistic philosophy of the

Garden State Film Festival

is rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and celebrates this spirit through dramatic screenings and unparalleled film collaborations attracting a diverse audience from around the world. From

Wednesday, 25

–

Sunday, 29 March 2020

in

Asbury Park, New Jersey

, GSFF unveils world premieres, Hollywood stars, industry panels, and as a nonprofit enterprise, serves as an added economic engine for Asbury Park’s vitality through art, commerce and culture. Make your plans to be a part of intriguing panel discussions and can’t miss parties, all held in numerous locations all over the city by the sea.

This year\’s notables include

Linda Hamilton

(

Terminator

) who will receive the

Icon Award

,

Matthew Modine

(

Stranger Things

) who will receive the

Lifetime Achievement Award

,

Robert Patrick

(

Terminator

)

Patriot Award

,

Ashley Platz

(

Grey’s Anatomy

)

Rising Star Award

, director

Tara Wood

Independent Spirit Award

,

David Burke

Home Grown Hero  Award

,

Perry Lang

Renaissance Award

,

Rock & Roll Forever Foundation

Broader Vision Award

,

Arianna Bocco

Exceptional Women in Film

,

Robin Kampf

Educator of the Year Award

,

Nick Falcone

MVP

,

Jack Ford

Honorary Chair

, alongside films that feature

John Goodman

(

The Big Lebowski

),

Harry Shearer

(

Spinal Tap

),

Jodie Foster

(

Taxi Driver

),

Dash Mihok

(

Ray Donovan

),

Uzo Abuda

(

Orange is the New Black

),

Vanessa Williams

(

Ugly Betty

),

Richard E. Grant

(

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

),

Devon Bostick

(

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

),

Frank Stallone

(

Rocky

),

Cathy Moriarity

(

Raging Bull

),

M Emmet Walsh

(

Blade Runner

),

Xander Berekely

(

The Walking Dead

),

Jessica Siposa

(

DC’s Legend’s of Tomorrow

),

Joel McHale

(

Ted

),

Jason Mewes

(

Clerks

), Supermodels

Chanel Iman

,

Elsa Hosk

,

Jessica Stam

,

Nadine Leopold

,

John Carter Cash

(

Walk the Line

),

Sam Waterston

(

Law & Order

),

Catherine Hardwicke

(Director,

Lords of Dogtown

),

Lou Gossett Jr

(

Officer and a Gentlemen

), E

van Handler

(

Sex and the City

),

Gary Pastore

(

The Sopranos

),

Barry Primus

(T

he Irishman

),

Charles Dance

(

Game of Thrones

),

Chad L. Coleman

(

The Walking Dead

),

Kevin Kane

(

Inside Amy Schumer

),

Natalia Dyer

(

Stranger Things

),

Tate Donovan

(

Argo

), memorial music video for

Avicii

by

Chris Martin

(

Coldplay)

, original music by

Patrick Carney

(

The Black Keys

),

The Bouncing Souls

, members of

Gaslight Anthem

,

Travis Barker

(

Blink 182

),

James Arthur

(musician), NBA superstar

Shaquille O’Neal

’s award-winning film

Foster Boy

and many more.

This 5-day event brings a large number of producers, directors, actors, investors, distributors, and industry talent to the State of New Jersey, the birthplace of American filmmaking.

In one weekend, you can enjoy over 240 films on all subjects, in a variety of lengths, showing in numerous locations all around Asbury Park, plus parties, celebrities, seminars, networking, free shuttle rides, and lots more. It’s a fast-paced weekend of non-stop fun for all ages. Films are shown in two-hour-long screening blocks that include a variety of works like shorts, feature-length, music videos, and trailers. Each screening block concludes with a question and answers session with the filmmakers and actors. Other events held throughout the festival include panel discussions and seminars on topics such as

SAG-AFTRA Contracts 101 for Filmmakers

,

ESports & Virtual Reality

,

Demystifying SAG-AFTRA for Actors

, Directors Panel entitled

Small Screen, Big Screen: Directing Choices Different or not,

and film distribution. Planning ahead and using the Garden State Film Festival App will help you not miss a thing. For more information including schedule, tickets, and travel visit

Home

Fairmount & Spring Garden Neighborhood Guide

Because of their proximity to the renowned arts and cultural institutions along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia’s Fairmount, Spring Garden (and increasingly the nearby Francisville and Brewerytown neighborhoods) are often referred to as the “Art Museum area.” The personalities of these historic, laid-back, diverse communities are distinct in their own right.

Fairmount is residential, a sort of urban suburb, with many pubs and restaurants and a massive former prison-turned-museum,

Eastern State Penitentiary.

Between the Parkway and Fairmount, Spring Garden has beautiful Victorian architecture and a decidedly relaxed vibe. Bordering neighborhoods include

Logan Square

to the south, the Schuylkill River to the west and

North Broad

to the east.

The Main Attraction

:

Eastern State Penitentiary –

Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, the massive, Eastern State Penitentiary operated from 1829 to Today, the historic site opens year-round for tours that explore its history, along with modern social justice issues that surround incarceration. During the Halloween season, the venue’s Terror Behind the Walls experience frightens even the most daring souls. 2027 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 236-3300,

easternstate.org

A Mano –

Under the direction of restaurateur Townsend Wentz, chef Michael Millon prepares seasonal, handcrafted (

a mano

means “by hand”) Italian dishes at a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) spot that earned three out of four bells from

The Philadelphia Inquirer

. Cash only. 2244 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 236-1114,

amanophl.com

Engimono

–

A new sushi BYOB from Kabuki Sushi owner Albert Zheng serves traditional and signature rolls named after Philly institutions like the 76ers and Drexel. 1811 Fairmount Avenue, (267) 273-0303,

engimonosushi.com

Fare –

Healthy, local (and when possible, organic) food comes in small plates, salads and main courses at brunch and dinner. In warmer months, patrons enjoy their food on the outdoor patio, which has a vertical herb garden. 2028 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 763-5500,

farerestaurant.com

Figs –

Still a relatively well-kept neighborhood secret, this cozy corner BYOB dishes out Mediterranean food in an authentic Moroccan setting. Cash only. 2501 Meredith Street,

(215) 978-8440,

figsrestaurant.com

The Greyhound Cafe –

Vegan food with mass appeal — Buffalo wings, burritos, pizza, Impossible sliders, cheesesteak chimichangas, stuffed shells, Italian bowls — makes the reverse commute from Malvern, home to Greyhound’s first location, just north of Fairmount in Francisville. 1839 Poplar Street, (215) 232-2234,

thegreyhoundcafe.com

Jack’s Firehouse –

Set in a 19th-century firehouse — the fireman’s pole is still standing — Jack’s has been serving American cuisine, along with impressive whiskey and scotch selections for nearly 30 years. The restaurant has a prime view of the imposing Eastern State Penitentiary across the street. 2130 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 232-9000,

jacksfirehouse.com

La Calaca Feliz

–

This highly praised, brightly colored spot is known for modern Mexican cuisine and a few dozen tequilas. Not to be missed: the carnitas tacos. 2321 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 787-9930,

lecalacafeliz.com

Pizzeria Vetri

–

Awarded three out of four bells by

The Philadelphia Inquirer

, this upscale pizzeria serves traditional, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, salads and more. Patrons can choose from a variety of beverages on tap, including four rotating beers and red and white wine. 1939 Callowhill Street, (215) 600-2629,

pizzeriavetri.com

Trio

BYOB –

A charming converted row home cranks out Pan Asian cuisine, especially traditional Thai dishes: fragrant, curry-like

khao soi

, made with cooked egg noodles and entrees featuring lemongrass meatballs. One block from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, it’s especially convenient for museumgoers. 2601 Pennsylvania Avenue, (215) 232-8746,

triabyob.com

Umai Umai –

This small Japanese BYOB serves some unusual maki: The Godzilla, for example, features shrimp tempura, eel, avocado, honey, macadamia bits and strawberry; the Spartan combines miso-marinated beef tenderloin, cucumber, mozzarella cheese, shrimp tempura and paprika aioli. 
533 N. 22nd Street, (215) 988-0707,

umai-umai.com

Casual Neighborhood Eateries & Cafes

:

Buena Onda –

A member of chef Jose Garces’ family of restaurants, this Baja Peninsula-inspired, do-good eatery is known for mahi mahi tacos and tofu chorizo quesadillas served on house-made tortillas. Fifty cents from every guacamole or bottled water ordered goes to the Garces Foundation, a nonprofit that helps Philadelphia’s immigrant community access health and educational services. 1901C Callowhill Street, (215) 302-3530,

buenaondatacos.com

Dessertcrazy –

Philly’s first brick-and-mortar keto bakery offers wholesome treats that clock in at fewer than five net carbs per serving. Guests can opt to eat their cupcakes, brownies or cookies onsite with coffee or tea in hand, or have these goodies delivered. 1925 Fairmount Avenue, (267) 764-1411,

dessertcrazy.com

Doma

–

This 35-seat Japanese BYOB with Korean influences serves lunch and dinner to in-the-know neighbors. Regulars swear the hot-stone bibimbap rivals anything found in Chinatown. 1822 Callowhill Street, (215) 564-1114,

domarestaurant.com

iPho

–

Van Nguyen brings traditional Vietnamese noodle soups, vermicelli, broken rice, banh mi and bubble tea to a corner bistro. Diners have the option of eating in or taking out. 1921 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 763-7777,

iphophilly.com

Nine –

Thai street food is the motto and menu of this sleek BYOB, known for

khanom jeep

(pork dumplings), flavorful tom yum soup, cilantro-dressed noodles and mango sticky rice for dessert. 2829 W. Girard Avenue, (267) 703-6699,

ninephilly.com

Rybread –

Father and son team up to share their passion for food at this all-day cafe. The sandwich and panini menu is based on the son’s seven-week road trip across the country; salads, smoothies and ice cream are popular too. 1711 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 769-0603,

rybreadcafe.com

Sabrina’s Café & Spencer’s Too –

South Philadelphia’s 9th Street Italian Market brunchtime darling operates this outpost, where hungry diners fill up on oversized portions of comfort food during lunch, brunch and dinner. 1804 Callowhill Street, (215) 636-9061,

sabrinacafe.com

Stockyard Sandwich Co.

–

This farm-to-table — and nose-to-tail — spot offers seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner by chefs Mike Metzger and Will Lindsay, who previously worked together at University City’s White Dog Cafe. 1541 Spring Garden Street, (215) 977-9273,

stockyardphilly.com

Sweet Nectar Dessert Kitchen

–

Baker Robin Broughton-Smith was Jay-Z’s accountant before she opened this spot, known for its cakes, cupcakes, cookies, baked doughnuts and muffins — all made with locally sourced produce and no artificial food dyes. The shop also offers BYOB cupcake-decorating classes. 547 N. 20th Street, (267) 318-7143,

sweetnectardk.com

Tela’s Market & Kitchen –

Beloved specialty corner store also serves three rustic gourmet meals a day. Early crowds rave about the egg sandwiches and piled-high bagels, while hearty brisket and butternut squash lasagna fill bellies through 8 p.m. on weeknights. 1833 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 235-0170,

telasmarket.com

Whole Foods Market –

More than just Amazon’s supermarket, this Whole Foods hosts Philly-based food stalls:

hummusiya

Dizengoff, falafel specialist Goldie and Federal Donuts. 2101 Pennsylvania Avenue, (215) 557-0015,

wholefoodsmarket.com

Zorba’s –

Loved for its traditional Greek cuisine — the chicken souvlaki and chargrilled whole fish stand out — and atmosphere, including three generations of Greek owners speaking in their native tongue, this spot is one of the neighborhood’s well-kept, most reasonably priced secrets. 2230 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 978-5990,

zorbastavern.com

Bars With Great Food

:

Bar Hygge

–

Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga; Danish for “cozy camaraderie”) brings together the couples behind Conshohocken’s Baggataway Tavern and Mount Airy’s Earth – Bread + Brewery. The stylish and rustic neighborhood brewpub focuses on beers, wines and seasonal small and large plates. 1720 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 765-2274,

barhygge.com

The Black Taxi –

Smithwick’s and Harp are regularly on tap at this corner Irish bar showing English Premier League soccer and serving bangers and mash, rasher-topped burgers and shepherd’s pie along with typical American bar fare. 745-747 S. 25th Street, (215) 232-1086,

theblacktaxi.com

Crime & Punishment Brewing Co. –

Inspired by Russian literature, this brewery reps Brewerytown with painstakingly crafted IPAs, pilsners, stouts and lagers, and a deliciously refined menu of pickled beets, caramelized cauliflower, sour cherry dumplings and creative brunch options. 2711 W. Girard Avenue, (215) 235-2739,

crimeandpunishmentbrewingco.com

Era Bar and Restaurant –

Serving Ethiopian food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this laid-back spot also offers beer, wine, drink specials and pool. 2743 Poplar Street, (215) 769-7008,

theerabar.com

The Fairview –

The Belgian Café got a complete makeover into an airy gastropub for local craft beers and chef Beth Fox’s American comfort fare, including vegan green chili cheeseburger empanadas. During the warm-weather months, outdoor seating makes for prime people-watching. 601 N. 21st Street, (215) 235-3500,

thebelgiancafe.com

McCrossen’s Tavern –

This neighborhood staple — and close neighbor of the Barnes Foundation — is known for stepped-up tavern favorites, a progressive beverage program and friendly, polished service. 529 N. 20th Street, (215) 854-0923,

mccrossens.com

Rybrew –

This Brewerytown pub, sibling operation to Rybread (see above) and just north of Fairmount, serves awesome sandwiches, along with craft beer (available in growlers to go too). 2816 W. Girard Avenue, (215) 763-1984,

rybrew.com

St. Stephen’s Green –

This multi-level Irish gastropub has plenty of beers and ciders in bottles and on draft, nightly dinner service and Irish brunch on Saturday and Sunday. 1701 Green Street, (267) 239-8968

Thirsty Dice –

Philly’s first board game cafe and bar charges a flat rate ($7) for unlimited play of more than 800 board games (Yahtzee, Life, chess, Apples to Apples, Cards Against Humanity, Codenames, Pandemic, Catan, etc.). Staff helps with choosing and instructions, and serves coffees, local beers, French bread pizzas, mac and cheese and spiked Cinnamon Toast Crunch milkshakes. 1642 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 765-2679,

thirstydice.com

VISIT PHILADELPHIA

®

is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.

On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog,

visitphilly.com

and

uwishunu.com

, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.

Letters to Aunt Hattie Event February 22

Burlington County Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson announced today that the Women’s Advisory Council is hosting an event to celebrate 100 years of women’s suffrage. The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote.

“The performance, Letters to Aunt Hattie, celebrates women’s suffrage as well as the contribution of African-American women to the movement,” said Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson. “This one-woman show is truly inspirational and allows us to reflect on and appreciate the legacies of women like Harriet Forten Purvis and Charlotte Forten Grimke who shaped the women’s rights movement.”

The event will be held on Saturday, February 22 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Burlington County Library Auditorium on Pioneer Blvd. in Westampton. It is free and open to the public.

The play is written and performed by Gilletta McGraw based on the real-life activists Harriet Forten Purvis and Charlotte Forten Grimke.

Charlotte Forten, a young, bright student, begins writing letters to her favorite aunt, Aunt Hattie. Through these letters, Charlotte shares her thoughts during her studies and learns about some of the monumental accomplishments of the women in her family. During their back-and-forth correspondence, Charlotte grows in her activism and dedication to serve the oppressed and fight for equality.

Additionally, Harriet Forten Purvis was an African-American abolitionist and first-generation suffragist. With her mother and sisters, she formed the first biracial women’s abolitionist group, the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society, which was the first biracial women’s abolitionist group. She also hosted anti-slavery events at her home and bravely ran an Underground Railroad station, and fought against Segregation.

“This is just one of the events that the Council will be hosting this year to celebrate 100 years of women’s suffrage,” concluded Freeholder Hopson. “We hope that everyone will join us. The anniversary gives us the opportunity to recognize those who have made a difference in history and empower younger generations.”

The Burlington County Women’s Advisory Council works to identify and address issues that affect women in Burlington County, raise public awareness of the special needs and roles of women, provide mentoring opportunities for women, and enhance the quality of life for all women. For more information follow the Council on Facebook at @BurlingtonCountyWomen or visit: http://co.burlington.nj.us/263/Womens-Advisory-Council

Kratom for Pain Relief

Gloucestercitynews.net (February 13, 2020)–It is unfortunate that some of us have encountered accidents at some point in our lives. In some cases, we are blessed enough for the accident to not inflict any major injury. Sometimes, the injury is incessant enough to linger for longer than anyone would want it to be. Medications, too, seem to cease to

credit unsplash.com

provide any evident relief.

One feels utterly hopeless when even medical science has nothing to offer for a problem so troublesome. But, nature has a remedy for every crisis mankind faces. Its vast storehouse of herbs and shrubs are the answer to possibly every physical malady human faces. One such herb is Kratom. Kratom, or Mitragyna Speciosa, as it is called in the scientific community, is a native plant predominant in Thailand. It has been used for its medical applications since the nineteenth century. Kratom works very efficiently for pain relief. A study conducted on 10,000 Americans concluded that a staggering 68% of them used Kratom for self-treatment of pain. Here, we explain the pain-relieving properties and a bit about the

best Kratom for pain relief

. Read on!

The high concentration of Alkaloids

Humans experience pain due to the presence of pain receptors that travel to the brain. Kratom has a naturally high concentration of alkaloids. These alkaloids dull the pain receptors which results in an evident decrease in the pain a person is experiencing. Thus, no matter how old the pain is, kratom shows its effectiveness by attacking the very base of origin of pain. Maeng Da Kratom literally translates to \’pimp grade\’ kratom, which is suggestive of its very strong reserve of alkaloids.

Promotes the production of Serotonin and Dopamine

One of the curious effects of kratom is the enhanced production of Serotonin and Dopamine in the body. The initial of these neurotransmitters regulate a person\’s mood while the following elevates the feeling of happiness. This helps a great deal in chronic pain as it is often accompanied by persistent depression and anxiety. This also helps in coping with long lingering pain. Besides, it is always a good idea to be a bit more cheerful and happy.

Richness in Mitragynine

Kratom is known to be very rich in Mitragynine. Mitragynine is an alkaloid that has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This is very effective in muscle stiffness, and therefore, is a terrific pain reliever. This is additionally effective in diseases such as fibromyalgia, arthritis and rheumatism, etc. Mitragynine is also known to produce euphoric and stimulating effects on the human body.

Helpful in managing Diabetic neuropathic pain

A lesser-known impact of kratom is its ability to control blood sugar levels. Pain is one of the leading consequences of diabetic neuropathy. Controlling blood sugar levels can be a bit tricky for a person who cherishes food. An unstable diet can result in blood sugar spikes which can be dangerous in several cases. Research has proven that alkaloids in kratom help in regulating insulin production and thus, control the amount of glucose in the blood. This helps in preventing sudden rises or troughs that diabetics face.

Non-harmful pain-relieving perks of opioids

There are multiple medical conditions where opiates are used to counter pain afflicted in the body. But, there are multiple side effects of opiates such as addiction, dependence, respiratory dependence, etc. Kratom can be used to derive all the positive pain-relieving perks of opioids while ruling out the potential negative effects it can impart in a human. Kratom can be used without the suspicion of unaccounted ill effects.

Increases energy levels

Excessive pain can reduce the circulation of blood and energy levels as well. Kratom optimizes specific metabolic processes and rebuilds energy levels and increases circulation, fighting the sensation of pain. This is exceptionally useful for the physically active workers as the grievance of low circulation and energy levels is commonly heard from them.

Conclusion

Kratom has been traditionally used for assistance with pain and distress. It comes loaded with natural antioxidants. Whether it is acute or chronic pain, it can help in managing both of them. While using chemical painkillers may introduce a number of side effects, such as nausea, dependence, etc, kratom is a safe and effective way of confronting pain. Tried and tested, Kratom is one of the best alternatives at your disposal to counter and cope with any kind of pain or discomfort you wish to get rid of.