Running Numbers

A scholarly look at the digits that matter.

by Nick Norlen

3 Number of letters that must be written on one's behalf to be considered for membership in the Philadelphia Skating and Humane Society: a proposing letter, a seconding letter and a supporting letter. Skip that rigmarole and register for one of the society's eight-week "Learn to Skate" programs starting Oct. 25. Visit www.pschs.org for cost, dates and, for perhaps the first time on the Internet, an interesting "History" page — which actually explains the society's weird name.

8 Rank of Philadelphia, out of 10 U.S. cities, on a scale of "naughtiest to nicest," based on seven questions asked to 200 local women in an August Impulse Research Corp. survey commissioned by AXE grooming products. The survey also found that 96 percent of Philadelphia women "would rather endure the pain of a Brazilian bikini wax than hook up with a guy that smells bad." Don't get excited, AXE-wearing frat boys — it's not a cause-and-effect scenario.

16 Number of honorary Ph.D.s held by Philly native Chris Matthews, who will appear for a World Affairs Council luncheon and lecture Oct. 31 at the Park Hyatt at the Bellevue on Broad and Walnut. The Hardball host will discuss current issues and his new book, Life's a Campaign: What Politics Has Taught Me About Friendship, Rivalry, Reputation, and Success. Register in advance at www.wacphila.org. And don't forget to enter the cable pundit costume contest.

74 Age of the oldest beginner tap dancer currently taking classes at Tapography Dance Studios. Adults can register for the next seven-class course — which is $110 and runs Oct. 27 to Dec. 15 at Studio B Yoga, 209 Fairmount Ave. — by calling 215-694-7109 or e-mailing tapographydiva@gmail.com. Hard-core septuagenarians with surprisingly strong ankles needn't worry: Tap classes don't conflict with Humane Society skating lessons.

100 Number of people needed for a "soup-tasting brigade" during the Jewish Mama Soup-a-Rama, a Kosher soup-making contest that is just one part of the citywide Mitzvah Mania event Oct. 21. The taste-off takes place that day from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center's Klein Branch, 10100 Jamison Ave. Visit www.jewishphilly.org for a full schedule of events. Word on the street is that Rabbi Merow's Beth Shalom team is looking to reclaim the Golden Ladle Award they earned last year for their mushroom barley soup. Truly, this is what competitive souping is all about.

Can I get your digits? I want to hear about the numerals you need to see. Let a number-runner know at runningnumbers@gmail.com.