#BILLYPENNGRAM OF THE DAY
Under the Girard Avenue Bridge
(Photo by @gpatomk)
In a new approach to managing rising housing costs, North Philly nonprofit Esperanza works to prevent displacement and homelessness for low income residents.
“Being able to provide quality, safe, affordable rental properties as people are starting out on their journey is what we’re trying to do,” said Esperanza’s Walter Toliver. Continue reading…
A simple waterproof junction box on the corner of 15th and South Street is spreading smiles with simple toys, stickers, tchotchkes, curios, knick-knacks and other small items.
Elana Flehinger first loaded the box with goodies last September, encouraging passersby to take a trinket in exchange for an item of their own. “There’s some awful things going on in the world and it’s little moments of joy that kind of keep you going,” she said. Continue reading…
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• Iran war protesters in Philadelphia target McCormick, Fetterman, demanding end to conflict. [WHYY]
• 311 submissions can no longer be made public. The city says that’s to protect the system and staff. [Inq$$]
• South Philly homeless encampment residents who are facing displacement call on the city for a safe outdoor living space. [WHYY]
• Councilmember Jamie Gauthier wants to rezone schools to limit redevelopment of school buildings, arguing their land value is driving decisions instead of students’ needs. [WHYY]
• Temple University plans to partner with a pair of developers on a long-term plan to revitalize the former industrial area surrounding Amtrak’s North Philadelphia station. [PhillyVoice]
• Philly’s queer community showed up big to celebrate Philly’s first lesbian bar since the Toasted Walnut closed in 2021. [Billy Penn]
• How Philly’s Mütter Museum is rethinking human remains in its collection. [WHYY]
• March Madness tipped off in Philadelphia this weekend, with two days of tournament games at Xfinity Mobile Arena. But for all of the city’s local teams, the run was short-lived. [WHYY]
MAYOR WATCH
Last Friday, Mayor Parker joined city officials in celebrating the $27 million renovation and reopening of the historic Kingsessing Recreation Center.
Today, the mayor attends the Philadelphia Police Department graduation ceremony, held at Temple Performing Arts (10 a.m.), and then a ribbon cutting and graduation ceremony for the Community College of Philadelphia’s Naval Welding Program (11 a.m.).
ON THE CALENDAR
⚽ Billy Penn’s FIFA World Cup Guide
👭🏽 Women’s History Month in Philly
📚 Book lovers’ guide to Philly
🍹 Non-alcoholic Philly
🏃🏽 Philly Runners Guide
Monday, March 23: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Women’s Suffrage, and the Legacy of the 19th Amendment
In celebration of Women’s History Month, join award-winning historian Ellen DuBois to discuss the life, ideas, and legacy of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the decades-long struggle for women’s suffrage. Zoom registration is free. (1 p.m.)
Monday, March 23: Women and the American Revolution
Historians Mary Beth Norton and Rosemarie Zagarri will discuss how women influenced the political, social, and intellectual currents of the American Revolution. The conversation at the National Constitution Center will explore how women’s experiences and contributions deepen and expand our understanding of America’s founding. Free registration; In-person and online. (6:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Tuesday, March 24: Community Conversations: At a Crossroads — School Closures, Community Priorities, and the Future of Philly Students
A citywide series hosted by Every Voice Every Vote. This event focuses on Philly’s education system. From school funding and teacher retention to facilities modernization and student supports, this is an opportunity to engage in thoughtful dialogue about the future of Philadelphia’s students and schools. Free to register. In Germantown. (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Tuesday, March 24: Hot Wax X Wilder Book Dinner
Enjoy a discussion with author, M.L. Rio paired with a 5 course inspired meal in Wilder’s private dining room in Rittenhouse. $101.85 tickets includes dinner and book. (6:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, March 25: PA Provincial Conference: Virtual Lecture with Joel Fishman
A virtual lecture on the topic of “Exploring Pennsylvania’s Governing Documents from 1682 Until Now.” A look at the state’s five constitutions: 1776, 1790, 1838, 1874, and 1968. Free to RSVP. (4 to 5 p.m.)
Wednesday, March 25: Find Your Philly: Cocktail Hour
A casual social series that combines networking and community building. Attendees receive cards with lighthearted ice-breaker prompts. At Rhythm & Spirits, 1617 JFK Blvd. $6.64 tickets. (5 to 10 p.m.)
Thursday, March 26: Launch Your Future: Philly College Fair
Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable and the Salvation Army Kroc Center invite students and families to explore college opportunities from 2- and 4-year colleges. (3:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Through March 29: The Creative Alliance Show
Step into a world of color, connection, and creativity at this group exhibition at Cherry Street Pier featuring works by 40+ artists from one of Philadelphia’s most supportive artist communities.
Select Saturdays through April: A Deeply Rooted Trolley Tour
Harriett’s Bookshop brings back their popular three hour, hop on-hop off tour that celebrates local culture, history, music, and deeply rooted tradition by visiting new and seasoned spaces throughout Philadelphia. $73.34 tickets. (11 a.m. and 3 p.m. tour times)
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