Neighbors are asked to be aware of potential solicitations from vehicles - and are asked to call 9-1-1 if they are hailed by anyone demanding money. One vehicle that allegedly was involved in such solicitation was a red car, white male driver with a shoulder tattoo, plate PA HCJ-… a 0, and 8...The man alleged he was out of gas and needed money. Even though incomplete, that’s the data  provided to police by a female pedestrian who was frightened on a morning in January as she entered Cresson Street from Sunnyside Avenue en route to the SEPTA East Falls train station. Town /Watch patrols have scouted for this vehicle. We’d appreciate neighbors’ help.

Even as Town Watch serves as “eyes and ears” for local police, the Community Affairs arm of the City Controller’s Office goes out into neighborhoods to be eyes and ears for the City Controller, one Alan Butkovitz. Their quest:  How is city government functioning from your perspective? What can we be doing smarter, better, more prudently, more safely?

Mr. Butkovitz and Jeff Blackwell, deputy director for Community Affairs, came to the East Falls Town Watch (EFTW) meeting December 11th to learn from East Fall neighbors, and it was a very good meeting…lots of good information, some answers, some questions. We were pleased to count representatives from City Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr.’s office, the East Falls Business Assoc. and Philadelphia University among the inquisitors.

In October, East Falls Town Watch members posted five new signs informing the public about safety patrols. Pictured, Leon Joshlin climbed, while Leo Smith steadied the ladder at this posting behind Falls of Schuylkill Library.

East Falls Town Watch (EFTW) will ring out the old year on a high note when City Controller Alan Butkovitz comes to town to delve into quality of life concerns here in East Falls. His Office of Community Affairs seeks to cut red tape for citizens struggling with thorny issues. Given this rare opportunity to get a helping hand in making government more responsive, we hope you’ll join us in the Club Room above the Old Academy Theatre, 3540 Indian Queen Lane, on Thursday, December 11th at 7:30pm.