Normandy debates how to
throw a big anniversary bash

By Jeannie O’Sullivan
Times Staff Writer

In communities like Normandy, civic groups often mimic families. They laugh, cry and bicker, but, in the end, they bond over common values.
As its 50th anniversary draws closer, the Normandy Civic Association is unified in the desire to mark its longevity with some neighborhood improvements and a gala celebration.
Potholes and island repairs can be solved with a call to the appropriate city departments, and paving is already underway on six Normandy streets. But the final decision about formal celebration details did not come about without robust and occasionally combative discussion.
Seniors in the group suggested an evening cocktail or dinner event, while parents in the group, particularly one with youngsters in tow, said a daytime block party would be more entertaining for young attendees.
One woman questioned the logic of any type of party when attendance at civic meetings was so low. After a formal vote, a majority favored the idea of a nighttime social held at a union hall next spring.
The civic association is seeking new officers, announced president John Wisniewski. Stepping down are second vice president Bill Dillon; secretary Stephanie Burke; and treasurer Carol Schmeer. Anyone interested in volunteering for these positions should attend the group’s meeting next month.
In other civic news, Peggy Recupido, an aide to City Councilman Brian J. O’Neill (R-10th dist.), commended the group’s loud and persistent opposition to the pending closing of the Northeast Municipal Services Center, in the Northeast Shopping Center at 9215-27 Roosevelt Blvd.
Recupido said she hadn’t "lost all hope" that the so-called "mini-City Hall" would remain open, and she encouraged the residents to "keep up the punches."
Also in attendance were officials from the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment, City Planning Commission and Department of Licenses and Inspections, who took general questions about zoning issues. After brief discussion, ZBA chairman David Auspitz reiterated the city’s open-door communication policy.
"Don’t be afraid of the system — be part of the system," said Auspitz. "We don’t guarantee outcomes, but we guarantee access."
The Normandy Civic Association will meet next on Thursday, June 9, at 7 p.m., at the Norcom Community Center, 10890 Norcom Road. ••
Reporter Jeannie O’Sullivan can be reached at 215-354-3038 or osullivanj@phillynews.com