This Week: February 1, 2024 | |
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The inauguration celebrations have come and gone, appointments have been made and City Council is in session.
The new Mayor, Police Commissioner and City Council have all accorded themselves well so far, but the issues are many: Crime. Quality of Life. Poverty. Kensington. The new Sixers arena. And now, the shooting in Fairhill, which figures to shine a fresh spotlight on policing.
It’s time to listen to what our elected officials say, and to watch what they do. Stay tuned.
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On Tuesday, January 23, the CCRA Public Zoning Committee met. To see the meeting, visit our YouTube channel here. To see the report, visit here.
The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 27.
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CCRA MERCHANT PARTNER FEATURE | |
CCRA’s Merchant Partner program is a true Win-Win: It provides local businesses with complimentary advertising and exposure while giving CCRA members generous deals and discounts. This week we feature fave Rittenhouse eatery Seafood Unlimited. | |
People in the Know go to Seafood Unlimited | |
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With all the great dining options in Center City it can be difficult to know which to choose. But if you’re looking for great seafood, it’s a no-brainer: Seafood Unlimited on S. 20th St.
For over 45 years Seafood Unlimited has served both locals and out-of-towners in their sleek, casual setting. Their fresh, delivered-daily fare is from everywhere: we’re talking sea scallops, jumbo shrimp, ahi tuna, branzino, crab cakes, lobsters and arctic char. And do NOT forget to leave room for the home-made desserts: key lime pie, chocolate mousse and carrot cake.
Co-owner Judi Einhorn puts their philosophy this way: “Understand the neighborhood and you’ll understand the product you need to provide”. Well, they can check that box. And speaking of the neighborhood, CCRA members receive a complimentary tasting of their stellar gazpacho.
So the next time you get a hankering for something from under the sea, sail on over to Seafood Unlimited.
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Fore! If You Liked Caddyshack, You’ll Love Puttshack | |
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Afficionados of golf -- or just of a good time -- will welcome the arrival of Puttshack, what is termed the world’s first and only “tech-infused mini-golf experience” set to open Feb. 24 at The Shops at Liberty Place on Chestnut. In addition to all the tech touches, Puttshack offers innovative world-class cuisine, crafted cocktails, and a whole lot more. Get your game and your buzz on here.
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I-95 Northbound Scheduled Closing for 36 Hours February 3-5 | |
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Get ready for a road makeover! Northbound I-95 is scheduled to shut down from Feb 3-5 (6 PM to 5 AM) between Columbus Blvd and I-676. Detours are in place, so plan your route. This marks the kickoff of the project to revamp Penn's Landing. Here's the lowdown on the road rules:
- Saturday, February 3, 6 AM - 6 PM: Single-lane closure on northbound I-95 between Columbus Boulevard and I-676.
- Saturday, February 3, 6 PM - Monday, February 5, 5 AM: Full closure and detour between Columbus Boulevard and the northbound ramp from I-676.
For more info – think ramp closures and pedestrian access – motor here.
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Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion | |
Is Chinatown the perfect location for the new 76ers arena? Alternative Ideas for Chinatown | |
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A design workshop recently presented an array of alternative ideas to the proposed plan of building a new arena for the 76ers in Philadelphia's Center City. The workshop's creative proposals offer a fresh perspective on how the city can utilize its existing resources to enhance the fan experience, while also considering the impact on the surrounding community. With a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, the workshop's ideas challenge the conventional approach to urban development and showcase an alternate future for Philadelphia's sports and entertainment scene.
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Meet The History Makers: Black History Month | |
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Step back in time to Colonial Philadelphia at the Betsy Ross House, where history comes alive every weekend in February from 11 am to 3 pm. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the city's past as you meet the prominent members of Colonial Philadelphia's free Black community. Prepare to be captivated by the Once Upon A Nation Storytellers, shedding light on the African-American experience in 18th century Philadelphia. Discover the untold stories, remarkable resilience, and vibrant culture that shaped the foundation of our nation. Click here for more information.
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Real Time Real Estate: This Month | |
The Soaring Heights of Rittenhouse Square Real Estate: A Thriving Market Emerges | |
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Rittenhouse Square, one of Philadelphia's most coveted neighborhoods, is now witnessing real estate transactions that rival those of sophisticated metropolitan areas like New York. The local real estate scene is ablaze with properties selling for over $1,700 per square foot, a testament to the city's burgeoning status.
Recently, the Multiple Listing Service (Bright) reported an impressive tally of four condominiums selling in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, each achieving remarkable sales. The iconic, luxurious Laurel on the 1900 block of Walnut Street set a new benchmark, selling a unit for just over an impressive $2,000 per square foot at $9,770,438.00 on the 40th floor. Also, another unit in the building on the 46th floor sold for a record high sale per the MLS for $16M!
Does your curious mind want to know the origins of these discerning buyers? Some are relocating to the City of Brotherly & Sisterly Love to be closer to family or an outstanding job transfer they just can't pass up. Others are opting for a seamless transition from a mini mansion on Delancey Pl to luxurious single level living, sky high.
The allure of Philadelphia extends beyond its real estate market, with world-class retail, James Beard Award-winning restaurants, Ivy League educational institutions, and nationally recognized hospitals, making it an increasingly attractive place to call home. The city's rich tapestry of amenities is complemented by the presence of some of the nation's first-class sports teams, making Philadelphia an extraordinary city that truly has it all.
In this interesting market, native born Philadelphians and newer residents are making choices that reflect their appreciation of a city that offers not only a dynamic real estate landscape but also a lifestyle that is second to none. As we celebrate these milestones, one thing is clear – Philadelphia is a destination worth every penny!
Stay tuned for more.
Cheers,
Kate Federico
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Community News and Events | |
Steam Up Valentine’s Day With Smokin’ Hot Music and “Love, the Barnes” | |
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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner kinda sorta, and maybe this year spice it up with a concert of sensuous guitar-and-orchestra music inspired by lovers’ dances at the Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall? Let the danzon, flamenco and tango start it off, then follow it with Rodrigo’s epic “Concierto de Aranjuez”, then topped off by – what else? – Ravel’s Bolero. Feel the heat here.
Or, go the Great Art route at “Love, The Barnes”, the Valentine’s Dinner Party featuring, food, drink, music and – duh – Great Art. Think cocktail hour, multi-course dinner and after-hours art. Curate that here.
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Semifinalist Restaurants for James Beard Awards | |
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The 2024 James Beard Awards semifinalists were announced and no fewer than 10 Philadelphia restaurants were among the nominees!
The list this year includes some familiar Philadelphia names: Cantina La Martina ‘s Dionicio Jiménez, and My Loup’s Amanda Shulman and her husband Alex Kemp. a.kitchen+bar’s Ellen Yin also returns, joined by its wine and service director Frank Kinyon and general manager Harry Jamison.
Newcomers to the list include Bolo’s chef and co-owner Yun Fuentes and South Philly’s Isgro Pastries (the first nomination for the nearly 120-year-old establishment).
Finalists will be announced April 3, with the awards ceremony taking place on June 10 in Chicago. Click here to read more about these incredible eateries.
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Dive for the Kids — Philly Phreeze Returns to Kelly Pool | |
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Take the polar plunge on February 24 at Kelly Pool, 4231 N. Landsdowne Dr. Our city is safer with kids and teens at the free neighborhood pools in the summer. You’ll “be the change” our city needs because your dive will raise funds to help hire lifeguards so all the city pools can open. Brave enough? If your hearts there, read more about it and register here…and then encourage your friends to donate to your cause.
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Winter Tai Chi Registration Still Open! | |
Tuesdays through Mar 26, Times Vary. Located in the Markward Rec Center.
Achieve a healthier mind, body, and spirit by practicing this Chinese martial art.
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This class must be purchased as a season class pass. 10 classes total for $75.
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Wanna play Philly Feminist Quizzo? Here ya go…..During the heyday of the 1970’s women's liberation movement (a/k/a The Second Wave), Philadelphia was host to what female-based groundbreaking art exhibition? And – easy-peasy question -- counting backwards, what year did this occur, if we’re celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year (and were you alive then??).
For (most of) the answers, check out Philadelphia Art Alliance’s (re)FOCUS at UArts, for the 50th (re)FOCUS on Philly’s female artists. The multigenerational show offers a compelling visual representation of the enormous strengths, diversity, politics, and subtle sensitivities of today’s women. Reception is 2/2; the show runs through 4/20. Burn your bra here.
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Say Hello to the New City Council | |
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Our new City Council figured to be different, and in its first legislative session, it was. For one thing, the meeting started on time. For another, it was 100% in-person. For a third, the Council President was not Darrell Clarke but Kenyatta Johnson, who cited quality of life and poverty as his two top concerns. And that’s just the beginning; details of the session can be found here.
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Music as Food for the Soul | |
On Tues., 2/6, walk on over to the Mutter Museum’s Mitchell Hall to listen to a program featuring the music of Beethoven, Britten, Finzi, and Keel with a light reception following the concert. The event is sponsored by Music for Food, a musician-led initiative for local hunger relief. Its concerts raise resources and awareness in the fight against hunger, empowering musicians to use their artistry to further social justice. All proceeds benefit the Sunday Love Project, and will help supply Greater Goods, a grocery store in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood, offering free groceries to over 2,600 families monthly; ie, those who otherwise may go hungry. Tune in and tune up here.
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Merchant Partners "Deals and Discounts" Program | |
Please support our local merchants and save money too. These local merchants will provide a deal or discount to any member who shows a current CCRA membership card and personal identification. | |
CCRA assumes no responsibility, and makes no representations or warranties, regarding any product and/or services sold by any Merchant Partner. | | | | |
