In the heart of Lawndale, a small suburb of Philadelphia, the air was thick with the sounds of laughter and the scent of freshly cut grass on warm summer evenings. The year was 1968, and the neighborhood kids spilled out of their homes, eager to savor the fading sunlight and the freedom of a carefree summer.
The neighborhood, a tight-knit community where everyone knew each other, buzzed with the energy of children playing games that seemed to define the era. Kick-the-Can echoed through the streets, and the rhythmic slapping of jump ropes created a symphony of childhood joy.
Lawndale, a place where life was about the simple pleasures of the outdoors, embraced the warmth of this particular evening. A group of friends, led by a freckle-faced boy named Michael, gathered in a driveway on Magee Street. They divvied up into teams for an epic game of Red Rover, their voices rising in excitement as they called out, “Red Rover, Red Rover, send Billy right over!” The game, a staple of their summer evenings, brought a sense of camaraderie as friendships flourished amid the shouts and cheers.
As the sun dipped below the trees, the children’s attention turned to the soft glow of fireflies flickering in the gathering dusk. Mason jars in hand, they embarked on a magical mission to catch the elusive creatures. Laughter rang out as little hands darted through the warm summer air, capturing the blinking lights of nature’s lanterns.
In Lawndale, where time seemed to slow down, parents sat on their porches, exchanging stories and watching over the neighborhood’s lively scene. The distant jingle of an approaching ice cream truck added a sweet note to the atmosphere, prompting a collective dash for change and a chorus of delighted shouts. The warmth of the evening carried with it a sense of security and belonging.
In the late 1960s, Lawndale was a place where kids roamed freely, and the simple pleasures of childhood took center stage. As the fireflies continued their dance and the stars emerged overhead, the neighborhood of Lawndale embraced the timeless magic of a summer night, etching memories that would last a lifetime.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this one, you can get them here.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the heart of Lawndale, a small enclave in the suburbs of Philadelphia, the summer of 1969 brought with it the enchantment of carefree afternoons. The neighborhood streets echoed with the laughter and chatter of girls playing jump rope, hopscotch, and a myriad of outdoor games beneath the warm, golden sun.
A group of friends, led by the spirited Jane, gathered in the middle of Magee Street, where the asphalt became their canvas for hopscotch adventures. Chalk in hand, they meticulously drew the numbered squares, each one a portal to a world of imagination and friendly competition. The click-clack of stones against the pavement, accompanied by giggles and cheers, created a symphony of nostalgic delight.
Jump ropes, with their handles worn from countless twirls, became the catalyst for rhythmic chants and synchronized jumps. Deneen and Margie took turns showcasing their agility, their faces beaming with the thrill of each successful hop. The neighborhood echoed with the familiar tunes of rhymes passed down through generations, creating a timeless soundtrack to these idyllic summer days.
Lawndale’s streets transformed into a playground, where innocence thrived and friendships blossomed. Sidewalks became racetracks for enthusiastic bike races, and the distant jingle of the ice cream truck became a siren’s call, prompting a chorus of eager voices and the jingling of spare change.
Underneath the shade of towering maple trees, the girls gathered on their front steps, their mothers’ homemade lemonade cooling them from the inside out. They shared dreams, whispered secrets, and reveled in the simplicity of a summer day spent outdoors.
As the sun began its descent, the mothers called from porches, signaling the approaching dinner hour. Reluctantly, the girls dispersed, their laughter lingering in the air like a sweet melody.
Lawndale, in the summer of the 60s and 70s, was a haven where the sidewalks became canvases, and the streets transformed into stages for the timeless games that knit together the fabric of childhood memories. And so, the echoes of laughter and the rustle of jump ropes would linger, carried on the warm evening breeze, a testament to the enduring magic of those cherished Lawndale summers.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.
.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the early spring of 1973, a group of adventurous boys from Lawndale set out on a quest to explore the wonders concealed within the lush woods and along the banks of Tookany Creek. Armed with curiosity and a sense of camaraderie, they ventured into nature’s playground on a warm and sunny day. The woods, just beyond the familiar streets of Lawndale, were a sanctuary of tall trees, their branches reaching skyward like cathedral spires.
The air was tinged with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers as the boys followed a narrow trail that led them deeper into the heart of the forest. As they trod on the soft carpet of fallen leaves, their laughter echoed through the woods, accompanied by the distant melody of birdsong.
In their quest for adventure, they stumbled upon hidden clearings, secret hideouts beneath ancient oaks, and the occasional critter scampering away from their curious gazes. The murmuring sound of Tookany Creek beckoned them closer.
As they reached the creek’s edge, the boys marveled at the crystal-clear water, reflecting the azure sky above. Skipping stones across the surface became a competitive art, and the ripples of laughter mirrored the playful dance of the water beneath. Exploration led to discovery, and the boys encountered the wonders of the creek’s ecosystem. Frogs leaped from lily pads, dragonflies flitted through the air like living jewels, and the occasional splash hinted at the presence of fish beneath the surface.
Nature’s symphony played on, and the boys reveled in the harmony of their surroundings. After hours of adventure, the boys found a sunlit clearing beside Tookany Creek to rest and share tales of their explorations. With their imaginations fueled by the mysteries of the woods, they spoke of legendary creatures that might dwell in the shadows and undiscovered treasures hidden beneath the forest floor.
As the day waned, the boys reluctantly made their way back to Lawndale, their pockets filled with rocks, leaves, and the magic of a day well spent in nature’s embrace. The woods behind Lawndale and the serenity of Tookany Creek had become the backdrop for a timeless adventure, etching memories that would remain woven into the fabric of their childhood.
And so, with the setting sun casting long shadows through the trees, the boys of Lawndale returned home, their hearts filled with the joy of discovery and the promise of future escapades in the wonders of the woods.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.
.
.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennypack Park served as a green oasis and a haven for community members seeking respite from the urban hustle. As we step back in time to the 1960s and 1970s, Pennypack Park emerges as a timeless sanctuary where memories were made, adventures unfolded, and the spirit of nature beckoned to those in search of tranquility.
A Natural Retreat in the City
During the 60s and 70s, Pennypack Park provided a breath of fresh air for Philadelphians yearning to escape the concrete jungle. The sprawling park, encompassing woodlands, meadows, and the serene Pennypack Creek, became a playground for nature enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a slice of greenery in their urban lives.
Exploring the Woodlands and Trails
The woodlands of Pennypack Park were a canvas of vibrant colors and the soothing sounds of rustling leaves. Families and friends embarked on explorations along the park’s trails, creating lasting memories amidst towering trees and the rustling of wildlife. Hiking, birdwatching, and simply getting lost in the tranquility of the woods were cherished pastimes for park-goers.
Biking Adventures and Picnics by the Creek
As bicycles became a popular mode of recreation, Pennypack Park’s bike trails beckoned riders seeking a blend of adventure and leisure. Families pedaled along scenic paths, exploring the park’s beauty. The banks of Pennypack Creek served as the perfect backdrop for picnics, where laughter echoed and the gentle babble of the creek set a serene ambiance.
Community Gatherings and Festivities
Pennypack Park wasn’t just a natural retreat; it was a hub for community gatherings and festivities. The 60s and 70s witnessed concerts, festivals, and cultural events that brought together residents from diverse backgrounds. The park’s open spaces became stages for communal celebrations, fostering a sense of unity and shared joy.
Summers at Pennypack Pool
For those seeking relief from the summer heat, Pennypack Pool was the go-to destination. Families flocked to the pool for refreshing swims, poolside relaxation, and the simple pleasures of a sun-soaked summer day. The laughter of children and the splashes of water created an atmosphere of pure summer bliss.
Winter Magic and Snowy Adventures
When winter blanketed Pennypack Park in snow, a new kind of magic unfolded. Families ventured out for snowy walks, children built snowmen, and the park’s hills transformed into impromptu sledding slopes. The serenity of Pennypack Park took on a different charm, inviting residents to experience the beauty of the changing seasons.
Legacy of Pennypack Park in Philadelphia’s History
As we reflect on Pennypack Park in the 1960s and 1970s, it becomes clear that the park holds a special place in the hearts of Philadelphians. Its natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and role as a community gathering space have left an enduring legacy. Pennypack Park not only provided a respite from city life but also became a living testament to the importance of preserving green spaces for generations to come. Today, as we stroll through Pennypack Park, the echoes of those 60s and 70s adventures still resonate, reminding us of the timeless allure of this Philadelphia gem.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the quest for a long and fulfilling life, we often focus on diet and exercise, and rightly so. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for maintaining good health. However, there’s more to longevity than just what you eat and how much you move. In this blog post, we’ll explore the often-overlooked factors that contribute to a long and vibrant life: human interaction, fulfilling work, and the importance of family and friends as a sense of community.
The Power of Human Interaction
1. Staying Socially Connected: Human beings are social creatures, and our well-being is intricately linked to our interactions with others. Strong social connections can lead to a longer and healthier life. Whether it’s spending time with friends and family, participating in group activities, or volunteering in your community, maintaining relationships and connections is a key factor in longevity.
2. A Sense of Community: Beyond individual relationships, a sense of community can provide a network of support and belonging. Knowing that you are part of something larger, whether it’s your neighborhood, a shared interest group, or a close-knit community, can offer a profound sense of unity and purpose.
The Importance of Family and Friends
1. Lifelong Bonds: The bonds we share with our family and friends are often some of the most enduring relationships in our lives. These connections offer emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Nurturing these bonds can contribute to a happier and longer life.
2. Shared Experiences: Family and friends provide opportunities to share experiences, both the joys and the challenges. These shared moments create lasting memories and strengthen the sense of community. Whether celebrating achievements or offering a shoulder to lean on during tough times, these shared experiences enhance our well-being.
The Role of Fulfilling Work
1. Mental Stimulation: Staying mentally active is crucial as we age. Engaging in work that challenges your mind and creativity keeps your cognitive functions sharp. Whether it’s pursuing a career, engaging in a hobby, or working on a personal project, stimulating your brain is an essential component of a long and healthy life.
2. Feeling Needed: Knowing that your work or contributions are valued and needed can provide a strong sense of purpose. Feeling needed is a powerful motivator, and it encourages individuals to stay active, both physically and mentally. The satisfaction of being essential to a group, project, or cause can have a profound impact on longevity.
Living in the Present
Staying present in the moment and appreciating the here and now is another key element in the quest for a long life. Engage in mindfulness practices, and meditation, or simply take a moment each day to savor the beauty and experiences around you. Stress reduction and a positive outlook on life have been linked to increased longevity.
A Glass of Wine, in Moderation
It’s no secret that enjoying a glass of wine can be a delightful and relaxing experience. In moderation, wine may even offer some health benefits, such as heart health and stress reduction. While it’s essential to be mindful of alcohol consumption, a little indulgence can indeed add to the quality of life.
Conclusion
In the pursuit of a long and fulfilling life, remember that diet and exercise are just part of the equation. Embrace human interaction, cultivate a sense of purpose, and stay mentally and emotionally engaged with the world around you. By living in the present, feeling needed, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures within a community of family and friends, you can unlock the secrets to a healthier and more joyful journey on this remarkable planet. And yes, a glass of wine in good company can be the perfect finishing touch to a life well-lived.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the quiet streets of Lawndale, the dawn of a Saturday morning in the 1960s brought a familiar and cherished ritual for the kids of the neighborhood. Long before the sun kissed the rooftops, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air as children across Lawndale stirred in their beds, eager for the animated wonders that awaited them on the television screen.
The soft glow of the television set illuminated living rooms as kids tiptoed through the house, careful not to wake their still-sleeping parents. Clad in pajamas and wrapped in blankets, they gathered around the television, their eyes wide with excitement. The clock on the wall ticked closer to the magical hour when the airwaves would be filled with the enchanting melodies of theme songs and the vibrant colors of Saturday morning cartoons.
As the clock struck 7 AM, the television screen flickered to life, and Lawndale’s living rooms transformed into private theaters of childhood delight. The energetic theme songs of classics like “The Flintstones,” “The Jetsons,” and “Tom and Jerry” filled the air, signaling the start of a weekend adventure. Wide-eyed and captivated, the kids of Lawndale embarked on animated journeys, their laughter echoing through the air as they followed the antics of their favorite characters. The misadventures of Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble, the futuristic escapades of George Jetson, and the timeless cat-and-mouse chase of Tom and Jerry became the backdrop of Saturday morning escapades. Bugs Bunny and Road Runner were the kings!
Cereal bowls were filled with sugary delights, a colorful assortment of favorites from Froot Loops to Cocoa Puffs. The kids sat cross-legged, balancing bowls on their laps, immersed in a world where gravity-defying antics and talking animals were the norm.
As the morning sun ascended in the sky, the laughter and chatter of Lawndale’s children blended with the sounds of animated joy emanating from televisions across the neighborhood. The magic of Saturday morning cartoons was not just a visual delight but a shared experience that united the community in the simple pleasures of childhood.
With each passing cartoon and every shared giggle, the kids of Lawndale created memories that would endure long after the cartoons concluded. As the final credits rolled, signaling the end of the animated extravaganza, the kids bid farewell to their favorite characters until the following Saturday.
As the sun bathed Lawndale in its mid-morning glow, the children dispersed from their makeshift theaters, each carrying a pocketful of animated dreams and a heart full of Saturday morning delight. The streets of Lawndale came alive with the sounds of weekend adventures as the kids, fueled by the magic of Saturday morning cartoons, ventured out to explore the day’s possibilities, leaving behind the warmth of shared moments in front of the television.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.
.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the vast realm of Hollywood, where tales of stardom are often told, there exists a narrative of grace, talent, and resilience that is personified by the remarkable Sophie Winkleman. Beyond the glitz and glamour, her life unfolds as a captivating story of a woman who has left an indelible mark on both stage and screen.
Royal Beginnings
Sophie Winkleman’s story begins with regal roots. As Lady Frederick Windsor, she stepped into the limelight with an inherent elegance that only hinted at the vast spectrum of her talent. Born into the British aristocracy, her journey unfolded against the backdrop of both tradition and the allure of the performing arts.
The Thespian’s Odyssey
Beyond the royal corridors, Sophie carved her path on the stage and screen. Her thespian journey is a testament to her versatility, ranging from Shakespearean stages to contemporary television. With roles in notable productions like “Peep Show” and “Two and a Half Men,” Sophie’s performances resonate with a depth that goes beyond the surface.
Balancing Act
While gracing the entertainment industry, Sophie masterfully navigates the delicate balance between family life and a thriving career. Her roles extend beyond the scripted lines, embracing the real-world challenges of being a wife and a mother. This balancing act adds an extra layer of relatability to her narrative, making her journey even more inspiring.
Behind the Scenes
Beyond the camera’s lens, Sophie is a captivating writer, penning her experiences with wit and candor. Her literary contributions, including the book “Marrying the Prince,” offer a glimpse into the world behind the scenes, revealing the human side of a personality often associated with glimmering lights and red carpets.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Sophie Winkleman’s life is not confined to the screen; it extends into the realm of advocacy and philanthropy. Her dedication to charitable causes amplifies the impact of her journey, proving that true stardom goes hand in hand with a compassionate heart. Sophie Winkleman’s life story is an extraordinary tapestry woven with threads of talent, resilience, and a commitment to both art and humanity. Beyond the titles and accolades, her journey resonates as a narrative of a woman who gracefully navigates the complexities of life, leaving an indelible legacy that transcends the glitz of Hollywood. Sophie Winkleman‘s extraordinary life is a testament to the transformative power of art, the strength within, and the enduring grace of a modern-day royal.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the groovy days of the 1970s, breakfast was not just about a bowl of cereal; it was an experience. For kids of that era, one particular cereal sparked both morning excitement and musical delight – Honeycomb. What set it apart? A tiny, groovy secret hidden on the back of the box – a playable record.
A Blast from the Past
Picture this: you’re sitting at the breakfast table, eagerly munching on your Honeycomb cereal, and your eyes catch a glimpse of something magical on the back of the box. It’s not just a colorful illustration or a puzzle; it’s a record! A real, playable vinyl record, waiting to be cut out and spun on your record player.
The Sweet Sound of Breakfast
Honeycomb’s ingenious marketing move allowed kids to enjoy not only the honey-flavored goodness of the cereal but also a sweet soundtrack to accompany their morning routine. The records featured catchy tunes, jingles, and sometimes even mini-stories, making breakfast a multi-sensory experience.
In 1969, boxes of Super Sugar Crisp featured cut-outs of “The Archies Record” There were multiple versions of “The Archies Record” each with 4 songs. One included the mega-hit “Sugar Sugar.” Another featured “Everything’s Archie”, the theme song for the animated series “The Archie Show”. Archies records could also be found on the back of Alpha-Bits cereal.
In 1970, the Monkees TV series had been finished for 2 years, but repeats of the show were popular as part of Saturday morning programming. Those repeats were sponsored by Post. That same year, the cereal company put cut-out Monkees records on the back of their Rice Krinkles, Alpha Bits, and Honey-Comb cereals. There were 3 different records, each with 4 songs. Hits on the records included “The Monkees Theme”, “I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone”, “Last Train To Clarksville” and “I’m A Believer”.
In 1977 (or possibly 1978), Honey-Comb was scaring the cereal out of children with a series of Ghost Story records. Stories included The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, The Miser’s Gold and The Hitchhiker.
The stories were told by Wade Denning who was a prolific jingle writer at the time. His most famous jingle was a 6-note instrumental piece for Maxwell House Coffee which mimicked the sound of percolating coffee.
How It Worked
The process was simple but oh-so-exciting. On the back of the Honeycomb cereal box, a circular groove pattern awaited discovery. Kids would carefully cut out the record, ensuring not to damage the grooves. With a sense of anticipation, they would place it on the turntable of their record player, drop the needle, and voila – the sweet sound of Honeycomb magic filled the room.
Collectible Keepsakes
These cereal box records became cherished keepsakes for many. Whether it was a catchy jingle that played in the background while pouring milk on Honeycombs or a funky tune that became the backdrop of morning routines, these records added a touch of whimsy to breakfast time.
The End of an Era
Alas, as times changed, the era of cereal box records faded away. Evolving technologies and shifting consumer preferences led to new marketing strategies, leaving behind a trail of nostalgia for those who remember the joy of cutting out a record from a cereal box.
The Legacy Lives On
While the days of Honeycomb cereal box records are a fond memory for those who experienced them, the spirit of that era lives on in the hearts of breakfast table adventurers. It’s a testament to the creative and playful ways brands engage with their audience, turning the ordinary act of enjoying a bowl of cereal into a memorable, groovy moment. So, the next time you come across a vintage Honeycomb cereal box with a record on the back, take a trip down memory lane. Play that record, close your eyes, and let the sweet symphony of nostalgia transport you back to the 1970s when breakfast was not just a meal but a groovy experience.
.
If you’d like to read more stories like this, check out this book.
.
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
As an author, there’s no greater joy than seeing your story come to life on the pages of a newspaper, and that’s exactly what happened when The Northeast Times in Philadelphia featured an article about my book, “LAWNDALE, Stories From My Youth: Growing up in Northeast Philly in the 60s and 70s.” I am incredibly grateful to Editor Tom Waring and the entire staff at The Northeast Times for their support and recognition.
Having spent my formative years in Northeast Philly during the vibrant decades of the 60s and 70s, my book is a nostalgic journey through the streets of Lawndale, capturing the essence of a bygone era filled with community spirit, resilience, and cherished memories. It’s a tale of simpler times, of friendships forged on stoops, of summers spent playing stickball in the street, and of the neighborhood stores that were more than just businesses—they were the heartbeats of our community.
When The Northeast Times reached out to me for an interview about my book, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. To have my story featured in a publication that holds such significance in the Northeast Philly community is an honor beyond words. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving our local history.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Editor Tom Waring for his keen interest in my book and for allowing me to share my story with the readers of The Northeast Times. His dedication to showcasing the stories and voices of our community is truly commendable, and I am deeply appreciative of his support.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the entire staff at The Northeast Times for their professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the process. From the initial interview to the publication of the article, their commitment to quality journalism shines through, and I am privileged to have been featured in their esteemed publication.
To the readers of The Northeast Times who have taken the time to read the article and learn about my book, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your interest and support mean the world to me, and I hope that my story resonates with you and brings back fond memories of your own experiences growing up in Northeast Philly.
In closing, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my story with the readers of The Northeast Times. Writing “LAWNDALE” has been a labor of love, and to see it celebrated in my hometown newspaper is a dream come true. Thank you to Editor Tom Waring and the entire staff at The Northeast Times for helping me bring my story to the community, and thank you to the readers for embracing it with open arms. Here’s to the power of storytelling and the enduring spirit of Northeast Philly.
Get your copy of Lawndale here:
.
Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
Back in December of last year, I was having dinner with a friend of mine from my days at Philly Weekly. She said I should reach out to the Northeast Times to see if they were interested in writing about my book about Lawndale.
I inquired with the editor and he was receptive. So I sent him a copy to read. Here we are, 3 months later and he’s been kind enough to publish a story about Lawndale.
Charles Wiedenmann has written a blog, Phicklephilly, since 2016, but content ideas became limited at the outset of the coronavirus.
The Lawndale native had an idea.
“I’ll just start writing stories about my childhood,” he said.
Wiedenmann put these stories on Facebook group pages to a positive response.
“People went wild over these things. People were coming out of the woodwork,” he said.
That led to another idea.
“I should write a book about this and do a Wildwood book after that,” he said.
Wiedenmann’s coming-of-age Lawndale, Stories from my Youth: Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia in the ‘60s and ‘70s, was published on his 60th birthday in 2022. He described it as a “labor of love,” and received multiple 5-star reviews on Amazon.
“I’m glad people in the neighborhood embraced the book,” he said.
Wiedenmann grew up at 312 Magee Ave., a block with lots of kids. “Nobody was wealthy, but we were rich in our experiences,” he wrote in the book.
He and his sisters, Jane, Nancy, and Gail, were the children of loving parents Horace and Helen. He attended Lawndale School and Fels Junior High, enjoying neither, then went to Frankford High School, where he had a good experience until his family moved to North Wildwood and he spent his senior year at Wildwood High (class of 1980). Down the Shore, Stories from my summers in Wildwood, NJ in the ‘70s, was published last June.
Horace Wiedenmann, who died in 2016, loved to read and would be pleasantly surprised that his son, who did not like school, became a published author.
Wiedenmann, known to friends as Chaz, worked in banking, finance, and advertising. Today, he lives in Rittenhouse Square and has an adult daughter, Kathryn, a musician whose stage name is Kat Seventeen.
Lawndale, which includes a Philadelphia glossary in the back, recalls a time when there were no cell phones, internet, or social media. There were few TV channels – 3, 6, 10, 12, 17, 29 and 48 – and no remote controls. Phone numbers were written on matchbooks and included the first two letters of the exchange. The Wiedenmanns’ number was RA8-7275.
Local youths tuned in to KYW News Radio 1060 AM on snow days hoping to hear the following announcement: “All public and parochial schools are closed.” That meant Wiedenmann and other Lawndale-area kids could grab their Flexible Flyer to go sledding at Melrose Country Club.
Modes of transportation were the N bus and bicycles. Wiedenmann loved the freedom his bike gave him. Safety be damned in those days, as no kids wore bike helmets, and nobody used seat belts or sunscreen.
The author recalls loving to trick or treat and every Christmas. Kids played games on the street such as Red Light – Green Light, hide and seek, Mother May I, hockey, and wiffle ball.
Off Magee, he became friends with kids who were bused to Lawndale School and loved hanging out “back the tracks,” near a railroad line.
Wiedenmann met his first girlfriend, Clare, a St. Hubert student, on a telephone “loop line.” As he got older, he liked music and art, sang in a band called Renegade, and played a Sears Silvertone guitar.
The author has the gift of recalling all these years later.
“These are things I remembered, moments in the city,” he said. “I have that vivid memory of detail. Everything burns into me deeply.”
To buy Lawndale, go to amazon.com and type in the author’s name.
Lawndale was like a lot of other Northeast neighborhoods.
“It was a great place to grow up,” Wiedenmann said. “You knew everybody’s name on the street. You felt safer. None of us can ever forget it.”
Wiedenmann is glad to be a product of the ‘60s and ‘70s.
“I wouldn’t want to live any other time,” he said. “Just being out in the world, exploring it. I had some magical moments. I wouldn’t give any of that back.” ••
Phicklephilly 