Hello there, neighbors.
As many of you probably know, tomorrow, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, is Election Day. Here is some basic information you may need for tomorrow and some locally based resources:
Don’t know where your polling place is? You can find it here.
Do you speak a language other than English and are registered to vote? You have the right to interpretation services at all polling places in Philadelphia. Visit this link to find out more about interpreter services in your language.
The ¡Ve y Vota! campaign is a nonpartisan, comprehensive civic participation strategy, designed to remove barriers to full Latino electoral participation by the Ceiba Latino Equitable Development Collective and NALEO. Call 1-888-839-8682 for help from these organizations.
Did you already vote by mail or absentee ballot and need to check if your ballot was received and will be counted? You can check that here, and the information is available in multiple languages.
If you already submitted a mail-in or absentee ballot, you cannot vote at your polling place on Election Day.
Did you get a mail-in ballot that you have not returned yet? Ballots must be received by the County Board of Elections no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024. You can take your mail-in ballot to a drop box, a county election office, or other officially designated location until 8 p.m. on election day. All voters must return only their own ballots.The only exceptions to this are for voters with a disability who have designated someone in writing using the Authorize a Designated Agent Form to deliver their ballot.
You can bring your ballot and the pre-addressed outer return envelope to your polling place to be voided. After you surrender your ballot and envelope and sign a declaration, you can then vote a regular ballot.
If you never received your requested mail-in ballot and cannot surrender your ballot and return envelope, you can only vote by provisional ballot at your polling place. Your county election board will then verify that you did not vote by mail before counting your provisional ballot.
Do you have to show ID to vote? Voters in Philadelphia are only required to show ID the first time they’re voting in a new division. If this isn’t your first time, no ID is required. If this is your first time, there are many options. Click here for the full list of acceptable forms of ID .
For a list of candidates and issues that will be on the ballot in Philadelphia Tuesday and to get a sample ballot for your voting locations, visit this online resource from the Philadelphia City Commissioners’ Office and this tool from our partners at Spotlight PA.
Voters with questions about the election process should contact the Philadelphia City Commissioners’ Office at 215-686-VOTE.
Voters who encounter any irregularities at their polling location can call the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Election Task Force hotline: 215–686–9641. Visit this video made by the District Attorney's Office about what to do if you have a problem with anyone interfering with your right to cast a legal vote
A guide can be found here for this year's election made by our partner newsroom Spotlight PA.
Here’s your weekly roundup.
News (in case you missed it)
Resilience in Harmony: Shannon Turner’s Journey Through Music
In the vibrant heart of Philadelphia’s Norris Square neighborhood, singer and vocal coach Shannon Turner is redefining the local music landscape with her dynamic band, Glitter and Garbage. She empowers aspiring artists through her award-winning vocal coaching and overcomes personal challenges with unwavering resilience.
Turner is making a significant impact on the local music scene with a unique blend of sound and style. Beyond her artistic pursuits, she shares her knowledge of vocal performance through vocal coaching. Her talent and expertise have earned her recognition as the Best Vocal Coach by Philly Magazine in 2023, highlighting her dedication to nurturing aspiring musicians.
Philly police to launch drone program in Kensington, cameras to fly beyond line of sight
Philadelphia police officer Ian Nance held a remote control on stage and flew a drone over an audience of about 10 people inside Willard Elementary School in Kensington on Tuesday night. The miniature aircraft hummed loudly as it filmed the crowd, sending live video and thermal imaging back to Nance’s remote screen.
The demonstration was part of the Philadelphia Police Department’s (PPD) announcement of its new “Drone First Responder” (DFR) program launching in the East Police Division, which includes the 24th, 25th, and 26th police districts.
“This is the future of policing,” said First Deputy Commissioner John Stanford.
Have news you think we should know about? Our work is for and by our communities. Kensington Voice is always looking for locally based residents of Kensington, Harrowgate, Norris Square, Port Richmond, and Fairhill to submit op-eds and other kinds of opinion and artistic pieces. Contact aja@kensingtonvoice.com to discuss something you think should be covered or to submit.
Monthly Community Meetings
Friends of McPherson
When: Every first Tuesday from 6-7 p.m.
Where: McPherson Square Library at 601 E. Indiana Ave.
Contact: chalmerst@freelibrary.org
Harrowgate Civic Association
When: Every first Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Heitzman Recreation Center at 3631 Amber St.
Contact: harrowgatecivicassociation@gmail.com
Kensington Independent Civic Association (KICA)
When: Every third Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Harrowgate PAL Center at 851 E. Tioga St.
Port Richmond Neighborhood Action (PRNA)
When: Every third Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Where: The Block Church at 2537 E. Monmouth St.
Contact: portrichmondna@gmail.com
Somerset Neighbors For Better Living
When: Every first Monday of the month (unless it's a holiday, in which case they meet the following Monday)
Where: Online Zoom meeting
Contact: phillysnbl@gmail.com
*There is no SNBL meeting in December.
South Port Richmond Civic Association
When: Every second Wednesday from 7-8:30 pm
Where: Veteran Boxers Association Ring 12733 E. Clearfield Street
Find more on the meeting here.
This Week at Kensington Voice
Kensington Voice x Liz Moore: The Power Of Your Novel, November 11, 2024
Sign up now for our "The Power Of Your Novel" writing workshop and a post-workshop Q&A with award-winning author Liz Moore on Monday, November 11, from 4 to 5:30 pm. The author will show how to bring an idea from pencil and paper to the big screen. Sign up and learn more here.
Youth Voices Afterschool Program
Mondays - Thursdays, 3:30-6 p.m.
3237 Amber Street, 3rd Floor
Kensington Voice's Youth Voices after-school program is open to children and youth in grades six through 12 on Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Youth are invited to join us for workshops and activities based on creative writing, journalism, poetry/spoken word, and visual storytelling. All students under the age of 18 must obtain permission from a parent or guardian to participate in after-school workshops and drop-in activities.
Contact Khysir Carter at khy@kensingtonvoice.com with questions.
Media Lab Workshop Hours
Does your organization need a space to host a workshop? Come book a time with us! We offer our media lab and equipment (Desktops, microphones, access to Adobe Creative Suite) for workshops, podcasting, or assisting with newsroom-related writing. We can also help you get your workshop together and off the ground!
Contact Aja Beech at aja@kensingtonvoice.com to schedule a time or ask questions.
*Our media lab is booked for a private group business development workshop session on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 6 to 7:30.
Activities & Events
Do you have an event that should be in our Monday newsletter? Please send any information, fliers, photos, or press releases to editors@kensingtonvoice.com.
November 6
Hive 76 is hosting another free miniature paint day at 7 p.m. Meet other mini-paint enthusiasts and enjoy their high-resolution 3D printer. Painting airbrushes and supplies will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own supplies. Sign up here.
November 8
Taller Puertorriqueño is hosting the “Picturing the Border Series” from 6 to 8 p.m. Visual artist Michelle Angela Ortiz and Associate Professor of Sociology Dr. Veronica Montes will talk about their collaborations and how art can be a tool for activism. Register and learn more here.
H&H Books is hosting a release party for its 2023-2024 “Riverwards Arts & Letters” series from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be readings, author talks, refreshments, and more. Register and learn more here.
November 9
Volunteering Untapped PHL and The Everywhere Project are looking for volunteers to help distribute hot food, water, and clothing to the neighborhood at 1810 E Clearfield St. from 12 to 3 p.m. There will be a wound care station for qualified medical volunteers, harm reduction resource tables, and other roles for volunteers to operate. Register and learn more here.
Taller Puertorriqueño is hosting a Q&A and book signing for author Bessie Flores Zaldivar’s “Libertad” from 3 to 4:30 p.m. “Libertad” is a YA coming-of-age story set during the rigged Honduran presidential election, and centers a young poet discovering the courage it takes to speak her truth about the people and country she loves. Go here to register for the event and learn more.
Latino Outdoors and Cesar Andreú Iglesias Community Garden are hosting a Dia De Los Muertos Collective Altar event at 424 W Norris St. from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be live music, food, and more. Folks can bring flowers, photos, or any items that feel right to honor lost loved ones. Register and learn more here.
November 10
Hive 76 is hosting a 3D Printing Meetup from 4 to 6 p.m. Come meet other 3D printing enthusiasts. Register and learn more here.
Weekly Events
Mondays & Wednesdays
Esperanza Health Center and Philadelphia Youth Basketball are hosting a free basketball afterschool program on Mondays and Wednesdays at The Core Gym (3222 H St.) from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The program is for kids in grades 5 to 8 and offers basketball-related activities, skill learning, and mentorship. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can register online here.
Monday-Friday
The Norris Square Senior Center offers free daily activities for adults 60 and older on Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Activities include art, exercise, games, and socializing. Meals are also provided—$1.25 for breakfast and $1 for lunch.
Mondays
Heitzman Recreation Center hosts a free chess club on Mondays from 6 to 7 p.m. for ages eight and up. No registration or prior experience is required. For more information, contact heitzmanreccenter@phila.gov.
Tuesdays
Heitzman Recreation Center hosts free art classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays will consist of bracelet making, and on Thursdays, participants will make arts and crafts. For more information, contact heitzmanreccenter@phila.gov or call 215-537-3244.
The Food Trust is hosting a Farmer's Market at 4th St. and Lehigh Ave. every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Every week, The Food Trust’s nutrition educators visit this farmers market to show you how to make a delicious, nutritious seasonal recipe — plus hand out free taste tests and prizes.
Wednesdays
Every Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Galaei hosts its weekly discussion group, “Code Grindr,” in person at its location. This discussion group will unpack the negative impact that hookup apps have, the stigmas they uphold surrounding race and gender identity, and the harm they cause people.
Looking for more open mics in the neighborhood? Tina’s Tacos hosts an open mic and live-band karaoke night every Wednesday from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Come by and show off your vocal skills or enjoy some local talent.
Fridays
The Sunday Love Project is hosting “Crochet for Beginners” classes for adults and children ages 10 and up from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 3206 Kensington Ave. The classes are free, and supplies will be provided.
Saturdays
NKCDC and The Health Federation of Philadelphia are partnering to host “The Diabetic Prevention Program” at Firm Hope Baptist Church on Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. The year-long lifestyle change program focuses on developing a healthy lifestyle and learning how to manage things like diabetes, stress, exercise, and meal prep. If you are 18 or older and are at risk or have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, you qualify for the program. Enjoy light refreshments, taste tests, raffles, and more.
West Kensington Ministries is hosting Zumba classes every Saturday at 10 a.m. All are welcome, and the entry fee is pay-what-you-can.
Sundays
Izlas Food Truck is hosting its Salsa on American Street event every Sunday from 8 to 9 p.m. Join fellow community members in learning the art of salsa and enjoying Latin music. Click here to register and learn more.
Free Trainings
JEVS Project WOW
JEVS Human Services is offering its free Project WOW Certified Production Training Program to young adults ages 18 to 24 who did not complete a high school diploma. This program offers hands-on training in OSHA 10, a Production Technician Certificate, a High School Diploma through Penn Foster, and more. Register and learn more here.
Mental Health First Aid Training
The Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) offers free training for those interested in earning a Mental Health First Aid certification. The virtual training is facilitated weekly. Register here.
Sheet Metal Workers
Sheet Metal Workers Local Union No. 19 is currently accepting applications for their Philadelphia training center. Earn money while you learn a new trade and learn from experienced professionals in the field. To learn more, apply here.
Funding Opportunities
Block beautification
As part of the Keep It Clean Philly campaign, the city is offering funding to block captains the PMBC Block Captain Beautification Grant to beautify their block. The grant amount can be as much as $500 and is only available to block captains registered through the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee (PMBC). Learn more here.
Business Security
Does your business need extra security? Click here to apply for the city’s Business Security Camera Program. If your company wants additional upgrades, check out the Storefront Improvement Program.
Nonprofits can also apply for security enhancements through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.
Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is offering the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program to older adults and people with disabilities ages 18 and up. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania by providing a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000. Learn more and apply here.
Philadelphia Water Department State Grants
The Philadelphia Water Department has grants available for its Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund. Eligible homeowners can get up to $10,000 for unpaid water bills. Apply and learn more here.
Jobs
Are you hiring locally? You can send all job listings and links to khy@kensingtonvoice.com
City of Philadelphia
The City of Philadelphia is hiring for multiple positions. View listings and apply here.
Division of Substance Use and Harm Reduction
The Division of Substance Use and Harm Reduction has several job openings available. View listings and apply here.
Esperanza Health Center
Esperanza Health Center has several job openings available. View listings and apply here.
New Kensington Community Development Community
NKCDC is hiring for several full-time positions, including Housing Advisor, Part-Time Kensington Planning Connector, and more. View listings here.
PennDOT
PennDot is hiring new engineers, equipment operators, inspectors, and mechanics. View listings and apply here.
Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW)
PGW is hiring for multiple positions, including Call Center Representative, Field Service Technician, and more. Apply here.
Philadelphia Parks & Rec
Philadelphia Parks & Rec is currently hiring for multiple positions, including RSI Programming Specialist-Pops Playground and Seasonal Maintenance Attendant. Learn more and apply here.
Safe-Hub Philadelphia
Safe-Hub is hiring soccer coaches. Head coaches are paid $22 per hour, while assistant and flex coaches are volunteer positions. Apply here.
Septa
Septa is hiring for multiple skilled trade positions, such as Plumber and Millwright. Apply here.
Waste Management
Waste Management is hiring for multiple positions with an average pay of $26 per hour. Apply here.
Services
Filter Philly
Filter Philly provides free air purifiers, masks, and tests to local events and organizations to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses. If you’d like to be supplied with a free purifier or equipment, contact filterphilly@proton.me.
Fresh Choice Food Pantry
The Community Center at Visitation’s Fresh Choice Food Pantry is open on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Additional offerings include coffee, light snacks, free vital checks, HIV testing, and Hepatitis-C testing.
LIHEAP
Applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program are now open. Income-eligible families could receive up to $1,000 to pay for heating bills. Apply online or by mail.
NKCDC
NKCDC’s Kensington Empowerment Hub is open for its Record Clearing Clinic from 1:30 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday. Clients can meet with lawyers from the Lawyers for Social Equity organization to have their cases reviewed to see if they can be cleared of any records.
Youth Employment Project (YEP)
Temple University’s Youth Employment Project (YEP) is looking to enroll out-of-school young adults ages 16 to 24 in its program to support them with earning their GEDs and transitioning to employment or higher education. Requirements include being a Philadelphia resident, highly determined and self-motivated, and having a basic understanding of computer skills. Go here to fill out their interest form.
Support our work!
This newsletter, our journalism, and our programs are all made possible by grant funding and the support of our readers. Become a paid member or make a donation to ensure our important community-based work continues.
Volunteer with us! We are always in need of volunteers to support community events, write op-eds for publication, and mentor our youth during our afterschool/summer programs. Learn more here.
