|
Crime is always top of mind for most City denizens, which is what makes this May’s Democratic District Attorney Primary so intriguing.
Incumbent Larry Krasner is running for a third term. Challenging him Is former Philadelphia Municipal Court Judge Patrick Dugan. Krasner is an unabashed “progressive prosecutor” who focuses on reform. Dugan is more conventional, addressing lower-level crime and the small business community.
Endorsement-wise, Dugan has received the support of the City’s Building and Construction Trades Council. At the same time, Philadelphia’s Democratic Party – which typically endorses incumbents -- this time opted to not endorse a candidate.
So what’s it gonna be, Philly? Stick with the progressive prosecutor, or go a little Old School? Stay tuned.
| |
CCRA is looking to fill several Board seats for our fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025. Board members generally serve a term of 3 years. The Board is a working Board.
We are seeking CCRA members who have a passion for living in “CCRAville;” are interested in issues of quality of life and community service; and are committed to active Board participation. Successful candidates must serve on at least one committee and agree to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in our Board Pledge, which includes devoting at least four hours per month to CCRA activities, not including time spent attending, and preparing for, monthly Board meetings. Go here to see a list of all standing committees.
Interested members are encouraged to forward a resume or statement of interest that includes a summary of qualifications by Monday, March 10 to: centercity@centercityresidents.org, with "Board Candidate" in the subject line. (We also welcome your suggestion of any CCRA member who you believe would be an asset to the Board. Be sure to include their email address and/or phone number.)
| |
City Cast Philly Podcast Interviews CCRA President Leo Levinson re Bike Lanes | |
|
In Part One of its Bike Lane podcast, City Cast Philly got the perspective of the Bicycle Coalition.
In Part Two, the podcast interviewed CCRA President Leo Levinson to get our take.
You want to hear this. On Apple podcasts, it’s here. On Spotify, here.
| |
This Just In: CCRA’s Speakers Bureau! | |
|
How would you – and your friends and neighbors – like to hear about the State of the Neighborhood directly from CCRA?
CCRA is pleased to announce our new and improved Speakers Bureau.
That’s right, we are readily available to come to you to enlighten and share the latest updates about the neighborhood and also entertain your questions or concerns.
Our Speakers Bureau would be delighted to come to your professional groups, social groups, volunteer groups, High-Rise buildings, offices, organizations, clubs, churches, synagogues… you name it.
Please email Travis Oliver to arrange this golden opportunity.
| |
Daylight Savings Time Reminder | |
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 spotlight new Merchant Partner Bennett Compost!
New Merchant Partner Bennett Compost Turns Trash into Treasure
Want to compost but don’t know how? No worries! New CCRA Merchant Partner Bennett Compost takes all the guesswork and uncertainty out of it and makes it easy-peasy!
How does it all work?
Step 1: Bennett drops off one of their special 5 gallon buckets with a snap-on lid that keeps smells in and pests out.
Step 2: You fill your bucket with kitchen scraps and food waste.
Step 3: You leave your bucket outside in the evening before your collection day, and they’ll make sure it’s emptied in the morning.
That’s it! Food waste into compost! Just like that! What’s also easy? Getting the details. To do that, go here. And, for CCRA Members, a one-time offer of 10% off 1-year membership for Bennett Compost (offer good for new customers only).
| |
No need to wait for summer for your pores to glisten. You can book an outdoor sauna at the American Swedish Historical Museum, in FDR Park at 1900 Pattison Avenue, for yourself or up to four people, through March 29. | |
Photo credit: Jose F. Moreno / Staff Photographer from the Philadelphia Inquirer | |
|
Whether it’s a 45-minute standard session or a 90-minute “long schvitz,” you’ll feel the benefits of a Scandinavian tradition that goes back nearly 10,000 years.
The sauna experience is being offered in conjunction with the current museum event “Sauna is Life: Sauna Culture in Finland,” which also explores sweating practices from around the world, including Japanese and Native American forms. For booking times, prices and more information, click here.
| |
|
While most people don’t think about “wildlife” in Center City, the many large parks we have – along with an abundance of insects, rodents and food waste – make the city a perfectly suitable habitat for a large number of species of birds. Which is why even if you live in Center City, you should at least be aware of the possibility that you could encounter one that’s infected with Avian Flu.
Outbreaks of the Avian Flu have been increasingly reported among native birds. The virus continues to mutate and evolve and could infect almost any species of bird.
Physical contact with birds that may be sick or found dead for unknown reasons could spread exposure to the virus. If you need to be in contact with a dead or injured bird, wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a mask and avoid any contact with their bodily fluids.
If you observe birds that appear to be sick visiting a bird feeder attached to your window or in the yard, remove the feeder to prevent communicable illnesses being passed among birds.
Updates and additional information about the avian flu are currently being provided by the Centers for Disease Control, the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, and the National Audubon Society.
| |
Philadelphia is riding high. Not only are we the city of the Super Bowl champs, we’ve been crowned a top travel destination by Tripadvisor, one of the 50 best cities in the world by Time Out, and one of the best food cities by Conde Nast Traveler.
Now we can claim the distinction of topping USA Today’s survey as the best city in America for street art. Home to one of the largest displays of public art in the world, including the Rocky statue, LOVE sculpture and The Thinker, plus more than 4,000 murals and other stunning artistic endeavors, our cityscape, from downtown to our diverse neighborhoods, offers a stunning visual feast for our viewing pleasure that often conveys important messages meant to stimulate our intellectual juices.
For a list of essential works of art and more information, click here.
| |
Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion | |
Self-Defense for Queer and Trans Folks | |
|
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical self-defense techniques and connect with community members.
Mark your calendars for March 15 at noon for a special self-defense class designed specifically for queer and trans individuals. This class is a safe and welcoming space to learn valuable skills to protect yourself while building confidence and community. Allies are encouraged to attend and support their efforts to create a more inclusive and safe environment.
Location: Studio 34 Yoga, 4522 Baltimore Avenue
This course is FREE. Donations are strongly encouraged. Sign up here (scroll down until you see the event).
| |
Your Green is Not Just for Eagles. Come to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade | |
|
Get ready to join the Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade festivities on Sunday, March 16. This event is more than just a parade; it's a vibrant celebration of Irish culture that brings the community together. Experience the electrifying atmosphere as marching bands, dazzling floats, and talented performers fill the streets with energy and excitement.
Whether you have Irish roots or simply love the day's spirit, this is the perfect occasion to don your green attire and gather with friends and family. Enjoy delicious Irish cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich traditions that unite us all. Visit here for more information.
| |
|
Is 2025 The Year For You To Buy A Home?
Here are 5 creative Ways to Maximize your Tax Refund.
| |
- Be sure you’re taking advantage of every tax deduction available to you. Whether it’s student loan interest, medical expenses, or home office deductions, these can lower your taxable income and boost your refund.
- Consider contributing to retirement accounts like a 401 (k) or IRA. Contributions to these accounts can lower your taxable income and potentially increase your refund. If you forgot to max out your retirement accounts, you still have time! The deadline to contribute to an IRA is 4/15/25.
- Check for state and local tax benefits. For example, tax benefits for college savings plans.
- Also, investigate tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit if you qualify. These are directly subtracted from your tax bill, which can help increase your refund.
- Lastly, consider hiring a tax advisor if you don’t already have one. They typically have a broad understanding of tax laws and regulations and offer insight into tax planning, compliance, and maximizing refunds.
Hopefully, you can use some of these great suggestions if you are considering a home purchase. Take the first step and reach out to your trusted accountant and realtor today.
Now is the time to dive in and start your home-buying process!
| |
Community News and Events | |
Fresh Faces in Center City Retail | |
|
It’s not your imagination: there is a lot going on retail-wise about town right now.
To stay current with all that good news, check out the report from the Center City District here.
| |
|
If you’re like us, thinking about the next election may bring on waves of nausea. Luckily, we can start small- Municipal Primary Day is May 20, 2025. Both Dems and R’s get to vote for their choice of candidates who will face off against each other in November, 2025. Think local: Judges, District Attorney, City Controller, and the Judge and Inspector of Election.
Those who vote by mail (mail in ballots and absentee ballots) can apply now, and take one thing off their “to do” list. The ballot application must be returned by 5/13/25.
Want to apply or get the down low on the deets? First, take your Pepto-Bismol, drink lots of fluids (cock or mock) and keep your eyes focused here.
| |
The Philadelphia Show is a Philadelphia Story | |
|
The Philadelphia Show, held annually on the East Terrace of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, showcases an outstanding selection of collectible antiques, art and design presented by over forty of America’s leading dealers. Learn more about the joy of collecting through educational dealer talks, show tours or take part in a self-guided treasure hunt.
Come experience the amazing array of fine art, Americana, furniture, folk art, ceramics, porcelain, silver, jewelry, textiles, decorative arts, and feel the thrill of the hunt. Details here.
| |
A Little Late, A Lot Legendary | |
|
The Late(ish) Poetry Show, hosted by The Philly Pigeon Collective, takes place on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 8:30 pm at PhilaMOCA (531 N. 12th Street).
Doors open at 8 pm with a DJ set, followed by what they describe: “Like the Tonight Show & Def Poetry had a baby that grew up to be your favorite Friday night in Philly. Poetry, interviews, games & music”.
Put your name in the hat for a chance to perform (and bragging rights). For more information on this cool-worthy night click here.
| |
Upcoming Discussion and Book Signing | |
|
Philadelphia author Ken Kalfus will be at Barnes & Noble at 1708 Chestnut Street on Tuesday, April 1st at 6 pm for a discussion and signing of his latest book, A Hole in the Story. His latest work is an irreverent, darkly comic novel dissecting the misjudgments, hypocrisies, and occasional good motives associated with a time of rampant sexism in politics and journalism.
Seats are limited, and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis to people who sign up using the link below. Purchase of a ticket guarantees entrance to the event for the discussion and signing. However, this ticket may not necessarily guarantee a seat at the event, as later arrivals may be placed in a line behind the seated audience. Copies of the book will be available for signing at the store.
For a brief synopsis of the novel, more info about Ken Kalfus, and to reserve a seat, use this link.
| |
Support Greenfield Annual Auction | |
|
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at The Greenfield School’s Silent Auction. This is your chance to bid on a fantastic array of items. By participating, you’re not just scoring great deals but also making a lasting impact on our neighborhood’s educational opportunities. Join us on Thursday, May 22, at The Concourse Bar, 1635 Market St, at 6 pm for a night of fun and community spirit.
If you cannot attend, you can still support Greenfield by donating an auction item. Find out more about it by visiting their website.
Please bring your friends and help uplift The Greenfield School while securing wonderful treasures. Let’s come together to support our future!
| |
Help for Our Less Fortunate Neighbors | |
|
Continued Need for Personal Care Item Donations
A giant THANK YOU to everyone who has donated personal care items to the take care station at the City Institute Library at 19th and Locust.
We are still in need of donations of the following NEW and UNOPENED personal care products, to stock the station:
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Period products (pads, tampons)
- Travel-size soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion
- Individually wrapped hand warmer
- Travel-size baby wipes
Your donations can be brought to the Reference Desk at any time. Thank you for helping us better serve all our library patrons!
| |
Calling All Sharks! “Shark Tank” is Coming to Philly! | |
|
Do you or someone you know have a great idea or product to pitch to the celebrity investors on the hit show "Shark Tank?"
Why do we ask? Because "Shark Tank" is looking for entrepreneurs for a new season, and is holding a casting call in Philadelphia on April 11 in the event center at Rivers Casino.
Hopefuls will have a chance to give a 1-minute pitch of their business, product, or idea to a member of the "Shark Tank" casting team, just like they would as if they were on the show. "Come prepared to wow and dazzle us," the open call website reads.
Take your sharkiness here for details.
| |
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. | | | | |
