Best of Philly 2005: Help
People who can save your soles: Faherty’s Shoes The experts here handle specialty shoes and orthotics for problem feet — and their customers swear by them (461-463 Second Street Pike, Southampton; 215-357-3621).
People who can save your soul: The Franciscans at St. John the Evangelist Church
Their midday services are jammed with Center City office dwellers, and for good reason: They actually smile when they talk about God (21 South 13th Street; 215-563-5432).
Furniture Fixer who makes house calls: The Restoration Studio
Utilizing a creative bag of tricks, Restoration’s two highly talented artisans, Rodney Keyser and Bernard Henderson, will gently sand, rub or stain your furniture until all traces of damage are gone—and none of your dinner guests will be the wiser (376 Shurs Lane, Manayunk, 610-834-4995; 1932 Route 212, Pleasant Valley, 610-346-7551).
Wallpaper hanger: Tu Dieu Is that wallpaper we see showing up on walls again? Yes, it is — and this outfit is a favorite of in-the-know Main Liners (419 Pine Street, Darby; 610-583-0880).
Center–City beat cop: Howard Singer of the 9th Police District
He’s only 28, and looks like he’s 19, but he’s serious about keeping Center City safe. Not content to cruise around in his patrol car, he likes to befriend store owners and residents in the district. Hell, he’s even concerned about tracking down those two kids who stole your unlocked bike when you stopped into the café for a quick cappuccino.
Patio furniture restoration: Southern Company They don’t make outdoor furniture like they used to, so when yours starts looking tired, bring it to these guys. They’ll sandblast and repaint the frames and restrap or remesh the seats and backs. They have customers as far away as Connecticut (2330 Wyandotte Road, Willow Grove; 215-659-8929).
Rental car company: Enterprise We’ve tried them all, and Enterprise is wayyy better — more professional, friendlier, competitive (often lower) rates, and they pick you up and drop you off (various locations; enterprise.com).
Upholsterer: Giancarlo Catoni
Upholstering A family business that does meticulous work and is up-front on how difficult a job can be; they also give good advice on the right fabrics to use (239 Keswick Avenue, Glenside; 215-572-7374).
Help with Medical Bills: Healthcare Advocates Stuck with a big medical bill you expected your insurance company to cover? Kevin Flynn’s firm goes to bat for people just like you — and gets results (215-735-7711).
Help Putting Together Stuff From Ikea: Apart Together Bala Cynwyd’s Chuck Shapiro is a whiz with all things Swedish — and he specializes in installing Ikea’s way-cool kitchens. Plus he’s such a nice guy, you won’t mind having him around your house for a few weeks (610-667-5062).
