The last of City Council’s public comment sessions took place Monday evening, and this week’s hearing could see some votes that finally reveal which Councilmembers are for and against the divisive, $1.3 billion project.
We preview that, as well as look at the important developments from last week. Buckle up! It’s about to get real. Continue reading…
South Street Art Mart opened as a holiday pop-up shop during the winter of 2018, but while the holiday season came and went, the Art Mart remained.
Six years later, they have an established storefront on Philly’s iconic South Street. Learn more about their story and the challenges they face. Continue reading…
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• 2025 will start with a 3.5% pay raise for Pa.’s governor, lawmakers and judges. [AP]
• Twice a week trash pickup begins this month in Center City and South Philly. [WHYY]
• Penn announced a $17.8 million renovation of Fischer Fine Arts Museum. [theDP.com]
• A CHOP program showed promising results for families facing food insecurity. Researchers hope more funding broadens its reach. [WHYY]
• Caregiving is being taken on by Philadelphians of all ages, including this Philly medical student who is learning to care for a parent with dementia. [WHYY]
• Renovations are underway at the Philadelphia Film Society. [WHYY]
• Jane Golden shares how Philly became “the mural capital of the world.” [Billy Penn]
• Hometown faves Mt. Joy will play 2 shows at the Mann on 2025 tour. [PhillyVoice]
MAYOR WATCH
Mayor Parker will join City Officials for the opening of the Neighborhood Community Action Center in the 3rd Councilmanic District, at Church of Christian Compassion, 6121 Cedar Ave. This is the latest in a series of Community Action Centers located across Philadelphia (4:30 p.m.)
The Mayor will join City officials and community members for a community meeting on the proposed Sixers Arena, at Church of Christian Compassion, 6121 Cedar Ave. (5:30 p.m.)
ON THE CALENDAR
🎅🏽 Tuesday, Dec. 3: Northern Liberties Tree Lighting
Enjoy music, a visit from Santa, vendors, light refreshments and many other surprises all ending with a tree lighting ceremony! (5:30 p.m.)
🎤 Tuesday, Dec. 3: Philly Rising Open Mic
REC Philly brings musical collaboration, inspiration, and networking to World Cafe Live, hosted by Arthur Thomas, leader of The Funkitorium. Performers from every genre are welcome to step up to the mic, and are chosen by lottery after submitting names beginning at 6 p.m. Free with RSVP. (8 p.m.)
💡 Wednesday, Dec. 4: 8th annual Historic Holidays Tree Lighting
Head to the Betsy Ross House at 6 p.m. for this tree lighting in Old City, complete with musical and dance performances from local schools and performance groups, plus an appearance from Santa Claus.
🖌️ Thursday, Dec. 5: The 29th Annual PAFA Student Print Sale
PAFA students have been presenting and selling etchings, lithographs, relief prints, stamp prints, and screenprints at this event since 1993. FREE to attend; All priced under $150, this tradition brings affordable art to the public. Meet the artists, as well! Snacks and beverages will be provided. (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
🎄 Thursday, Dec. 5: Philly Holiday Tree Lighting + Pre-Show
City Hall hosts the official lighting of the Philly Holiday Tree from 6 to 8 p.m., with a pre-show from 3 to 6 p.m. Performances throughout include students, community leaders, the cast of Broadway’s STOMP, Liamani, star of Disney’s “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” and Grammy-nominated actress Keyshia Cole. Food trucks and other vendors will also be on hand.
🎲 Friday-Sunday, Dec. 6-8: PAX Unplugged
The annual expo for tabletop and board games returns to the Pennsylvania Convention Center with gamers, celebrities, and more. This year, try a murder-mystery game that combines elements of live-action role-playing and escape rooms. $43 badges are still available for Sunday.
Catch up on the previous week
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