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After a decade at Festival Pier, grass is greener in Roots Picnic move to Mann Image courtesy: Christopher Hoffman
Tuesday’s primary election in Philadelphia provides latest meaning to line ‘all politics are local.’ | Page 16.
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FROM THE EDITOR
Uncertain futures
S
o the election is over. Where’s our street sweeper at? It’s like But what happens now? How we’re in a forgotten part of the city and it does the vote work in favor of won’t change until more of the people in City the voter – particularly in rapid- Hall actually give value to move in. But trust me, we have enough of them around here, so ly gentrifying districts like my neighborhood of East Kensing- the city should consider doing something nice for us too.” ton? Bannion shook her head as Jana spoke. On Tuesday, I struck up a short “I have a doctor who lives next to me,” said conversation with two longtime residents sitBannion. “He’s a nice guy and all ting outside my polling place that and we get each other’s packages made a lasting memory. Under the off the stoop, but you already know glow of District 7, it was announced he’s not sticking around. He’s a that incumbent City Council memsix-figure player on a block where ber Maria Quinones-Sanchez won people are on disability and public her third term for the seat against assistance. It’s an investment propcontroversial state Rep. Angel Cruz. But both candidates were topics erty. But we don’t have that luxury. I don’t know if the people responof conversation with Mary Bannion, 63, who resides on the 2000 sible for keeping the community block of Cumberland Street, and a looking attractive know or even woman who didn’t want to give her care that the mindset around here last name or age, but did tell me is to benefit from all this tax-free her name was Jana. Both attended land the city is giving out and then Kensington High School and grew sell it.” up in the neighborhood. Jana told She paused and continued. @SPRTSWTR me that she moved away and came “It ain’t jealousy. I’m not jealback after she left her “shitty husous,” Bannion said. “I just wonder why the mindset has shifted so much over the band” in 1993. That’s a story for a different column, per- last few years. You know there’s a whole lot of us that have no desire to leave this city and haps. Today’s topic was about the original res- we are committed to it, good or bad. But we’re not the ones the politicians seem to care about idents, the ones that are being priced out of their homes and the ones that are finding the keeping happy. To me, that’s the shame.” I asked why they volunteer their time at neighborhood less and less like the one they the polling place and how much value they remember. put into local elections and the sentiment was “I get a phone call at least twice a month clear. from someone asking if I had any interest “To me, these races are very important,” in selling my home,” said Bannion, who has been in her home since 1978, moving just two Jana said. “My father used to always say that [these races give] you have a line into who’s blocks south from her original family home on directly accountable for the good of your comHuntingdon Street. “Everytime, I ask them, if I sell you my house, where am I supposed to munity. I’ll never forget that.” go? They never have an answer because they I think about what the next four years will don’t care. I don’t even know how these fools look like in my rapidly changing neighborget my number.” hood. I wonder if I’ll see Jana and Mary in the Bannion has no desire to move but noted that rising taxes and living next to neighbors next four years, or if they’ll be forced out of benefiting from tax free properties is making the neighborhood the same way residents who her feel less and less welcome in the neighbor- clawed to stay close lost out to rising taxes and hood she grew up in. As for Jana, her gripe is greedy developers. I also wonder what a threethe overwhelming amount of garbage and lit- term incumbent, essentially the lesser of two ter on the streets that no one seems to do any- evils, will do to make residents feel safe, not just in favored sections of the district, but disthing about. trict-wide. “We as neighbors are doing all the cleanup,” I guess I’ll have to wait and see. All I ask is Jana said. “I go into Society Hill and Old City that Quinones-Sanchez listens to long-time and I see signs posted that I can’t park my car on a particular block because they got a street residents like Mary and Jana. They have a ton of worthwhile things to say. sweeper coming.
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STATE
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“I think women have spoken.” – Mayor Jim Kenney following the news that Rochelle Bilal had replaced Sheriff Jewell Williams. It said a lot without really saying anything, considering Williams’ office has been mired in sexual harassment claims and accusations over the course of Williams’ three terms as sheriff in Philadelphia. Read more on Bilal, Williams and Tuesday’s big election night in our rundown of all you need to know on Page 16.
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Election night, by the numbers 106,000 The number of votes for incumbent atlarge City Council member Helen Gym, the most of anyone running in Tuesday’s election.
The number of Democrats that ran for City Council seats. According to a Philly.com report, that is the highest number of Dems chasing Council spots in the past 40 years.
The number of years the Blackwell name was synonymous with West Philadelphia. However, with Jannie Blackwell being upset by City Council newcomer Jamie Gauthier, that reign ended at around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday with an exhausted Blackwell telling reporters, “I’m going home.”
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The number of terms for incumbent City Council member Maria Quinones-Sanchez, who won a tight race for City Council’s 7th District seat over state Rep. Angel Cruz.
9,523 The total number of votes for Black Lives Matter Pennsylvania activist Asa Khalif, which amounted to just 1 percent of the vote for an atlarge seat within City Council
Photo courtesy: Philly.com
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Friday 5/31
Best food in America comes from Kenzo
Tuesday 6/4
4pm
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Ommegang Happy Hour
Chesapeakin’
6pm
Toppling Goliath Launch!
Don’t take our word for it. This is the honor Food & Wine magazine bestowed upon South Kensington BYO Cadence, which opened just last year. The magazine noted that Cadence is the tits if you’re looking for “simple pleasures and serious food. With that being the case, good luck trying to get a reservation in the next six months or so. As for owners Michael Fry, Jon Nodler and Sam Kincaid, we’re sure that knowledge arrives with the sentiment of or guy here...
PHILLY 2019
Saturday 6/1
Thursday 6/6
AT
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It’s Always Sunny Side Up in Philadelphia
Kenney social game strong Incumbent mayor Jim Kenney won by a landslide Tuesday, receiving almost 70 percent of the vote to represent the Democratic party in November’s general election. Kenney celebrated the win with a bit of savagery on Wednesday morning, posting an image featuring the front page of the Inquirer boasting his victory, next to a bottle of Coke, assuredly poking fun at the fact that challengers are still all in a tizzy over Kenney’s implementation of the sugary drink tax in Philadelphia. We had no idea you had jokes like that, Jim. Well played.
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“This car has literally been in Philadelphia for less than 24 hours and it’s already fucked. Sad thing is, I’m not even surprised anymore. Just can’t have anything nice in Philly.” – Man in Fishtown to the tow truck driver that had to put what looked to be a brand new navy blue BMW on a flatbed after a pothole completely destroyed the driver’s side wheel. The wheel was in the sinkhole so deep that a forklift from a neighboring business assisted in lifting the BMW out of the hole, much to the sheer fear of its owner.
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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Painting with a twist The highly illustrated life of former Roc-A-Fella rap roller Oschino Vasquez BY A.D. AMOROSI
I
Former Philly-born Roc-A-Fella rapper Oschino Vasquez is pretty impressive in both his new roles as an artist and an activist. | Image courtesy: Jeannine A. Cook
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
n December 2018, I was preparing to interview a then-reuniting State Property – the Philly all-star, 1990s rapping supergroup which famously featured Freeway, Beanie Sigel and friends; however, one of its members was noticeably missing: Oschino Vasquez. Sure, his absence from the Roc-A-Fella-signed act and its troubles started with Sigel over money, but that beef had long been squashed. He also spent three years of his life at SCI Dallas for marijuana possession. What happened was, quite frankly, the solo rapper Oschino no longer wanted a boss (or bosses) and had bigger fish to fry: a burgeoning career in painting with a hip-hop edge as sharp as any of his raps and fanciful flows. After debuting his work at an exhibition in Upper Darby, Oschino is prepping his first painting/mentoring class for young adults for June 1, as well as preparing to drop his new solo album, “Appetizer 8.”
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The last time we were supposed to talk, we didn’t – the occasion of the State Property reunion. Why didn’t you do the reunion even after you put aside all beef with Beans? Because he’s still considered the boss of State Property, and I just can’t have him as my boss. He’s not an honest person. I’d rather just be on my own than have that guy as my boss. Is that why you left State Property the first time around – just not fond of bosses? Yeah, I just didn’t want anyone in that position touching my money or anything. I just didn’t want to deal with that anymore. It’s up to you to make a decision, in that case, to stay or leave. Me? I decided to leave. Do you talk to the guys in State Property? Not really. We’re OK, I guess. I’m the wild card – the one who tells the truth, the one who can’t let too much slide without saying something. Since you’re releasing new music on your own, is there anything to miss about the glory days of Roc-A-Fella? Not really. It’s better now. Back then, your song had to get approved. The label could blackball you and not pay you. Now you could get a hit in one day if the internet loves it. It’s sweet now. The money goes right into your account with no middleman. So many ways to get paid. And Philly hip-hop, now? It’s still gritty, still about murder and drugs. Just has more harmony in it. Hip hop is everything, everywhere. As a musical and lyrical form, where is it at this point in your life? Your solo work? I’ll always do music until I die. My next thing, “Appetizer 8,” is out in several weeks. My stuff is real thought out. The honest true stories I tell will never get played out – there’s going to be mothers on drugs one hundred years from now. No sugar coating. My painting is something I do for my soul. When and why did painting become a thing? I always did ‘art.’ I just never painted. When I was in prison, that was one of my hustles – doing portraits (he spent 3 years at Dallas State Prison in Pennsylvania for marijuana possession). I stopped drawing for years until somebody saw one of my pictures on the internet. They went crazy over it. My renewed interest started there. It’s been a year and a half since I’ve been painting. What would you say has been a highlight of being an artist so far?
[I sold] my second-ever painting, that’s pretty good. Who knows? I may be a genius. I have seen you speak out for, and against, Meek Mill, with whom you used to be friendly. What do you think of his new role as a prison reform advocate? Meek was with me before anybody knew him. It was basically a big-brother-little-brother thing. I really got the love for him and am proud of him. I think that’s great they have him as a prison reform advocate. Really, I wouldn’t care who was doing that, as long as it gets done. Your painting stuff is good, solid, contemporary and touching on issues of black consciousness. What did you learn about yourself in prison? Patience. That I was a fighter…. and a thinker, too. I learned that it’s hard coming home from prison to nothing. It’s so easy to go back. You have to really want to be out and productive. I fought. In prison, you learn what you’re made of. It really humbled me. How did you apply that humility and that thinking to what you do as a painter? Along with the painting, I have to say that, before prison, I would have never have gone to truck driving school, because my ego would have gotten in the way. My painting? I appreciate everything now, so that’s a part of it. So many people doing life. So many people never coming home. Everything is special, and that’s not to be taken for granted, since it can all be taken away. How is doing what you do as a painter a correlation to, or the opposite of, your work as a musical artist? It’s the total opposite. When I’m painting, I’m artsy and soft. When I’m rapping, I’m hard. The people who buy my records know me, so I can’t get softer. You’ve got a mentoring and teaching workshop coming up at YESPhilly at 1709 North Broad. What’s that about? I’m teaching kids how to paint. They don’t talk about art that often in the ghetto, let alone teach it. A lot of your work touches on hip hop multiculturalism and old school heroes such as Biggie. What else do you see yourself touch upon, aesthetically? And who were your primary influences when it came to painting, initially? I’m working on abstracts now. Michaelangelo is something to see. He was ahead of his time. Basquiat is overrated in my book. The stuff he did, anybody could do.
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Philadelphia freedom Food, festivities and ALL the fireworks planned for this summer’s Wawa Welcome America celebration BY ALEX NAGY
W
awa Welcome America, the weeklong celebration of the United States that happens every year in its birthplace, kicks off June 29-July 4. Last Thursday, Mayor Jim Kenney, Wawa CEO Chris Gheysens and Welcome America, Inc. President and CEO Michael Delbene revealed a multitude of planned events for the festival. This absurd celebration is packed with free events happening all day, every day. All the old jawns from celebrations past are happening again this year, along with some awesome new ones. Our picks for must-see events if you plan to spend your week of Independence in the city are as follows:
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
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SATURDAY, JUNE 29
Free Museum Day OK, so this is happening every damn day of the festival. For the first day, Christ Church and the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Rare Book Department are opening their doors for free. We thought the latter sounded pretty dope, and we could only imagine what kinds of stories you could unearth there. Over 20 museums are participating in this year’s event, which is the largest number of museums that festival attendees have ever been able to access. | 9 am. Locations vary.
SUNDAY, JUNE 30
Philadelphia’s Historic District Block Party A treasured tradition of the festival, this party is back, and unlike last year, it’s going down on a weekend. It’s all happening at Independence Mall, a spot that fills pages of history books. This one is sure to have people packing the streets and enjoying live performances and delicious food that every quintessential block party has to offer. | 12 pm. Independence Mall.
MONDAY, JULY 1
PECO Go 4th & Learn This series of educational themed activities for kids is focused on encouraging kids to interact and to make healthy decisions and read books. You know, all the shit that sounds lame to you as a cynical adult, but you should probably teach your kids to do. Really, though, an event like this just proves that this festival is for anyone. | 10 am. Penn Park, 3000 Walnut St. Philly at the Movies: “Invincible” This is another event recurring throughout the week, except this screening is special. Celebrate Franklin Field’s 125th anniversary with the classic Philly underdog story of Vince Papale. Scarf down some free Tastykake treats as you ugly cry at this incredible movie. God Bless America, and Go Birds. | 5:30 pm. Franklin Field, 235 S. 33rd St.
TUESDAY, JULY 2
Wawa Hoagie Day Thousands. Of. Free. Hoagies. Oh, and an eight-ton hoagie salute to the troops. Did you get that? We don’t think you really need to hear any more. If you catch any one event throughout this week, it should probably be this one. | Noon. Independence Mall & National Constitution Center Lawn, 525 Arch St. Kimmel Center’s Great American Picnic on the Plaza A festival within a festival. Enjoy live performances from actual Broadway casts and from the U.S. Navy Band Cruisers. Don’t be too embarrassed to sing along to the music from a host of notable Broadway shows. We know you probably secretly know all the songs, anyway. | 5 pm. Commonwealth Plaza, The Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 3
POPS on Independence This annual performance by the stellar 65-piece orchestra is part of the “POPS Salute Series,” which is a collection of events thrown with the purpose of honoring the troops. This year, they’re performing with Susan Egan - the original Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” on Broadway. You don’t know a Philly tradition until you’ve witnessed the POPS play live. | 7 pm. Independence Mall, 520 Chestnut St.
THURSDAY, JULY 4
Celebration of Freedom Ceremony Freedom may not be free, but luckily this festival is. Mayor Kenney will be announcing the winner of the Magis Award, the recipient of the Wawa Foundation Hero Award will be revealed, and the Declaration of Independence will be read. It’s all about service and being proud of our country, so why would you miss out on watching your fellow Philadelphians being honored for their service? Yeah, we will guilt you into going to this and applauding your neighbors for actually doing something to better our city. | 10 am. Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut St. Salute to American Independence Day Parade This year’s parade is brought to you by…the Philadelphia International Airport! We, the people shall unite to march through the nation’s birthplace and show our pride. You can expect all the extravagant patriotic displays you’d get on the 4th of July – marching bands, military units, tiny flags – except way more badass because it’s all happening on the most historic square mile piece of land in the country. We fucking love you, Philly, and we salute you. | 11 am. Independence Mall, 520 Chestnut St.
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Party on the Parkway The festivities don’t have to slow down, even though it’s the last day. This party is going on all day and offering all different types of family-friendly activities. Local musician Chill Moody will warm up the crowd with a preshow featuring other Philly musicians and artists. A zip line will run up the parkway. If only it was always there - it’d probably help solve the shitty traffic around there. | Noon. Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert & Fireworks The annual blowout concert will be headlined by Jennifer Hudson and Meghan Trainor. The colorful fireworks set off after the show will be choreographed to a “custom patriotic soundtrack,” which is a first for the festival. The entire week of celebration culminates in this crazy display of how grateful we are to be free Philadelphians. | 7 pm. Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
@ALEXBNAGY PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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Image courtesy: Christopher Hoffman
Changing course W The Roots ready to let grass grow under its feet in 2019 iteration of annual picnic
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
hen The Roots and its manager Mann at the end of June – Gee has a busy spring and summer planned with locally-based artists, in addition Shawn Gee wrapped the 11th iterato his role as handler for Lil Wayne, who is also touring tion of The Roots Picnic at Columthis summer. “The Roots Picnic, though, comes bus Boulevard’s Festival first,” he says, “and we had some changes in Pier last June, every homemind for [the 12th season].” town player was pleased BY A.D. Perhaps the largest change to the world-rewith the results. AMOROSI They were also grateful nowned Roots Picnic is as simple as the ground to have made it through it will stand upon once it kicks off June 1. During another year, a newer-feeling fest with a fresh the proceedings, Questlove, Black Thought and emphasis on local culinary delights, live podcasts, and the rest of The Roots crew finally get to play on grass, expanded mixtape stage sessions – to say nothing of the with audiences lolling in the sun, the shade and on the musical offerings on the main stage. long, wide lawns of The Mann Center. “When I took over with The Roots, fully, after the pass“Greener pastures” is how Quest referred to the picing of Rich Nichols, rest in peace, my first goal was to nic’s move on Instagram. The Roots may perform the entirety of “Things Fall make sure these guys were happy no matter what,” said Gee, The Roots’ longtime pal, founder of the management Apart” for the album release’s 20th anniversary, and senconsortium Maverick and partner in Live Nation Urban. sations of nu-soul (H.E.R., Ari Lenox), sleek vintage R&B As the lead manager of both The Roots and Jill Scott (Raphael Saadiq), AutoTuned hip-hop (21 Savage), pop – the latter’s Summer Block Party is coming up at the rap (Lil Baby, Blueface) and Afro-conscious podcasting
For over a decade, The Roots annual picnic was the unofficial start of summer in Philadelphia over taking over the waterfront at Festival Pier. Now, the caravan heads to the sprawling lawns of West Philly’s Mann Music Center for the foreseeable future.
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14,000 (Joe Budden) may hit up the picnic’s three stages dedicated to music, gaming, art and dialogue. But this time, and for the foreseeable future, cool grass and hot breezes high atop Parkside are the stars of The Roots Picnic. That was always supposed to be the case. The Roots’ and Gee’s artistic and social vision for the event emerged before its start, when The Roots were gaining traction while touring throughout Europe and its smartly-done festival scene. “Here we are, in 2019, and the festival phenomenon in the United States is fullblown without being saturated,” said Gee, remarking on the wealth of increasingly lifestyle-oriented, live music fests such as Coachella, Bonnaroo, Firefly and, presumably, Woodstock 50. “With that comes a wealth of artist-curated festivals,” he said of parties such as J. Cole’s recent Dreamville Fest in North Carolina and Jay-Z’s upcoming Made in America bash in September. “We started doing the latter 12 years ago based on our experience with the former, and our travels in Europe in the late 1990s.” Long distance travels and lengthy musical sets in European countries all but solidified The Roots’ reputation as being one of the preeminent live ensembles of the 21st century, at a time when record sales may have been precarious. “This was pre-Coachella and pre-Bonnaroo,” Gee noted. “We wanted that feeling. So when it came time to discuss something that we wanted to do in our hometown, we sat down with my partner Richard, and decided to bring back that European vibe to Philly, but with the artist curatorial twist.” It’s essential to note that, since day one and continuing on through the present, it is Gee and The Roots’ brain trust – Ahmir Thompson and Tariq Trotter – who find and select every aspect of what goes into a Roots Picnic. “We pore over all the acts, definitely,” Trotter told PW from the set of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, where he and the rest of The Roots play house band and comic foils. “We choose every podcaster. We sit, eat and lay hands on every food truck and chef offering.” Before The Roots and its management could get to a point where they could determine who had the best vegan burgers and who had the smartest podcast, they had to start from the ground-up. Twelve years ago, The Roots didn’t have all the clout they have at present, not locally and not in terms of driving star power to its
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The capacity allowed for the Mann Center according to its website, of which just a little over 4,500 can sit under the cover of the amphitheater, according to the Mann’s website. Image courtesy: Christopher Hoffman
picnic, like Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, Usher and Public Enemy in subsequent years following the inaugural festival. “When we first started to look for a suitable venue, we searched around from a business perspective, got with the city, sought out brand partners. And we ended up in a conversation with Geoff Gordon,” noted Gee, referring to Live Nation Entertainment’s current Regional President who, 12 years ago, also was gathering speed when it came to clout and influence. Gee, Thompson and Trotter told Gordon what they wanted to do, and the Live Nation chief made it happen. “He agreed to be our partner, as well as fueling and funding the picnic in its early years. At the same time, Festival Pier was coming up, just a pier with a core concert venue, and we went there to launch because of Live Nation. And that was cool.” Live Nation’s ever-growing position of power within the city eventually allowed the increasingly-mammoth Roots Picnic to expand its footprint, stages and audience
size into accompanying lots around Festival Pier. “Yeah, I think we pissed off a lot of people in need of parking since we took up several employee parking lots in the process,” said Gee, stifling a laugh, about the expanded, super-sized Festival Pier used exclusively for the Roots Picnic and, by 2017, fellow hometown heroes Daryl Hall and John Oates’ HoagieNation. But make no mistake: The Roots always yearned to play in a park. “We wanted to be on grass,” Gee said. Thompson told me in a previous interview that he had longed to make the Roots Picnic something worthy of a DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince video on Belmont Plateau and the Osage Avenue block parties of his youth. “I dreamed of The Roots Picnic as something akin to the annual WDAS-sponsored family event on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Super Sunday,” he said. “I guess I’d like the picnic to be like the old Super Sunday. That was a great day in October.”
9,000 The capacity Festival Pier holds [and held] for fans of The Roots Picnic weekend festival.
SEE ROOTS, PAGE 12
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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Image courtesy: Christopher Hoffman
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ROOTS, FROM PAGE 11 “Grass was the original plan: that was the whole idea behind calling it a ‘picnic,’” Trotter said. “But we just couldn’t get the right locations or the permits to do so,” said Gee of the initial iterations of the event. “We couldn’t fight through the politics to make it happen.” Gee acknowledges that Gordon, Live Nation and he would sit down at the end of every successful Roots Picnic and plan out the next one, and every year, according to The Roots manager, they would discuss the inevitable: is this the year the Picnic becomes a picnic? “We looked at Belmont Plateau,” Gee said. “We looked at The Lakes across from the Wells Fargo concert and sports complex. We looked at several park facilities in the city, but just could never lock onto any one.” Fate wound up nudging The Roots crew and Live Nation for a quick decision and a somewhat sudden change in the trajectory of the picnic on Columbus Boulevard when Festival Pier got sold 3 years ago. The intention of growth and change is the reason for the sale. The usual retail, condo, restaurant border blend could, at this point, help push the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation’s plans to finally transform the entirety of Penn’s Landing into a public playground and living space with the recently-remixed Cherry Street Pier and its lit-up theatrical offerings as the initial step in a ten-year plan. With that, and as of March
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
2019, Festival Pier is closed. “Festival Pier was good to us,” Gee said. “It had an inbuilt infrastructure in place, and it allowed us to grow organically.” What was once an easily accessible (by public trans, by foot, by cheap Uber) to downtowners, Port Fishingtonians, South Philly-ites and South Jersey travelers is now a thing of the past. Immediate plans to replace the outdoor, asphalt-and-sand venue that held upwards of 9,000 attendees is uncertain as a long-rumored new venue further up in Fishtown or along South Philly’s shipyards are unclear. “Look, we grew as large as the footprint at Festival Pier would allow us to grow – we were busting at the seams and took all of the adjacent lots,” said Gee. “All that was left was to play on Columbus Boulevard. We could have stayed there forever if they just let us take over more and more lots. We always put off the move. The sale pushed us to make the move to the lawns, especially considering that as the picnic was growing, we were growing as individuals and wanted to find ways to further make this festival ours.” “We had Scott Storch one year,” Black Thought said. “We hosted one of the last appearances of Mobb Deep’s Prodigy before he passed away.” Along with pushing Trotter to heighten the potential of his mixtape specialty stage, Gee and Thompson focused on the idea that the podcast concept and consumer consumption of it could exist in a live, real-time manner at
MUSIC
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Number of years The Roots Picnic has become the unofficial kickoff of summer in Philadelphia at Festival Pier
the picnic. “To my observation, it is those lifestyle options that are making festivals around the country complete,” Gee noted. “So, let’s build stages beyond live music and DJs, for how consumers are engaging with media on a regular basis – a podcast stage. We tried it out on a smaller level to see how podcasts could exist in the Philadelphia festival environment, and I think it worked. Festivals are loud and bright. Podcasts are personal and intimate.” The challenge became how to blend those polar opposites, which is where the Silent Philly crew came to play as avatars in the quiet disco phenomenon. Several hundred headsets later, and The Roots Picnic had a podcast stage. Along with the quiet came the thrum of post-8 bit technology and video gaming, which required yet another stage. “People are consuming music in any number of ways; gaming is one of the best, a wide environment in which to hear what you love,” Gee said. With that, The Roots Picnic hosted gaming competitions from 1-4 p.m. in the afternoon, with a transition from 4-7 p.m. in which to hear panels and speakers discuss the newest elements of gaming innovation. “Having the picnic downtown was convenient, but I think moving to the Mann will create even more of a for-the-city, by-the-city feeling,” Trotter said. “It’s more of a community effort being off Parkside. Granted, we’ll lose that central location, but the people who converged upon the Pier… it’s not like they were just hanging around. They were there for the picnic and would probably go wherever it was. The look that it will have being in a real section of the city – a neighborhood – is going to do something for that area’s morale and economy. We always wanted that created-for-andby feeling. This is the dream come true.” Owing to the fact that The Roots Picnic ground will add square footage and height to its operations (the Skyline Stage at the top of the Mann’s grassy knoll is a large entity unto itself, to say nothing of the Mann’s principal stage), Gee stated that the new location will feel bigger, yet more intimate – organically so. “Having The Roots Picnic at the Mann is growing the festival out, and we have our vision for the next five years out,” he said. “This iteration will be a great bridge between The Roots Picnic as you’ve known it for the last 11 years, and now, going into the future, into the next 10 years.” Though logistical specifics were not available at press time, Gee said that the Mann’s usual footprint will be “greatly expanded,” with additional adjacent lawn-scapes surrounding the center being utilized for the picnic, and therefore, quarantined for Roots business. “You’ll see how big it is the minute you get through the gate,” Gee noted. “The Roots Picnic is expanded, and this June’s event is just the first step.” Then again, everything about The Roots –
period – is about expansion. Of course, there is the distinct possibility that their long-awaited new album, “End Game,” the one rumored to contain some vault-discovered beats from J Dilla, will drop in 2019. “Go ask Tariq that question,” said Gee, laughing, a query that prompted Black Thought to say that the new album is coming along nicely. Along with a relationship with Amazon for an animated series (“where we’re elementary-school females—think the Muppet Babies,” said Questlove) and a live-action series based on their teen years, there’s a documentary series on AMC entitled, “Hip Hop: The Songs that Shook America,” based on the 2015 book “The Rap Yearbook.” The marketing of that docu-series commences in Philadelphia. “You’ll see a huge activation regarding our partnership with AMC at the picnic in June,” Gee mused. “We’re debuting in October, right after the start of the new season of ‘The Walking Dead.’” The Roots’ music is also part of an upcoming film from a major name director whose work The Roots Crew is producing, as well as another collaboration on an upcoming Broadway musical. “And we’re touring,” Gee stated. “There’s a lot of secondary and tertiary businesses that have been born from 44 weeks a year, 5 days a week, on The Tonight Show. We build opportunities based on the guys’ passion that you’ll see more of as 2019 progresses.” You want passion? While Thompson is going strong with the sales of his Vegetarian Cheesesteak at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia (so much so, 40 additional Live Nation venues across the country are picking it up as a stadium munchable), Trotter is readying his new solo EP, “Streams of Thought, Vol. 3,” for June release, hopefully in time for the picnic. Beyond The Roots’ roles on The Tonight Show where Trotter plays hard comic foil to Jimmy Fallon’s soft doofus, the stern MC has added “stand-up comedian” to his catalogue. Not only is his “Delirious” event at Punchline before The Roots Picnic self-curated with comics who pass through the halls of NBC Studios (Saturday Night Live’s Chris Redd is the headliner May 31), but Black Thought promises that he’ll jump on Punch Line’s stage with his own comic bits. “I keep it short for maximum impact,” he said. “Always leave ‘em wanting more than less.” Talk to Trotter about some of the more personal touches that he’ll bring to the 2019 integration of the picnic at the Mann, and the MC who surprised viewers with his comic ease, says he has long imagined a “food village, a culinary concept,” that he might even cook within to compete with other name chefs.“I cook, man,” he laughed. “I can do it all.” This story has been edited for print. Read the full article at philadelphiaweekly.com
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Grazie, Philadelphia! What a weekend, Philly. It was a hot one on both Saturday and Sunday at the annual South 9th Street Italian Market Festival but just like you, we were out all day soaking it up. We ate cannolis and calzones and watched grown men climb a greasy pole just to get to some pre-packaged meat. Many of you took the time to check out our booth and the artist that came with it. And a quick shoutout to that artist Mike Zallie, who designed and painted our seventh honor box in a growing collection. It was some weekend, Philly. Already looking forward to next year. We'll remember to bring the sunscreen this time. | Images compiled by Philadelphia Weekly Staff
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So what now? What can Philadelphians expect in aftermath of Tuesday’s elections?
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Mayor Kenney cruised to victory in the Democratic race for Mayor. But his win paled in comparison to others that have Philadelphians wondering what’s next for the growth of the city and the communities they inhabit. | Image: NBC10 screenshot
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
Bilal ran on a platform of “policing with compassion, hiladelphia has a new sheriff in town – helping Philadelphians stay in their homes,” according and for the first time, it’s a black woman. to her website. She said she understood the devastation Rochelle Bilal beat out two-term inof “insensitive policing” and that she hoped to “build a cumbent Jewell Williams, who has been better, more just Philadelphia.” beleaguered by accusations of sexual haBilal is also president of the Guardian Civic League, rassment, settling two suits filed by womthe black police officer’s association, and serves as secen and still facing another one. retary of the Philadelphia NAACP. She taught new reThe sheriff’s department is responsible for overseecruits at the Philadelphia Police Academy ing court security, transporting prisoners and developed a program to educate them to court and running monthly sheriff’s on topics that could cost them their casales of delinquent properties. Williams BY COURTENAY reers if they stray from the law. recently tacked on the jobs of serving warHARRIS-BOND But whether Bilal will be able to turn rants and guarding City Council and the around the opaque and oftentimes corrupt new Family Courthouse. sheriff’s office remains to be seen. The department has no term limits and Gauthier brings fresh face to old district seemingly few checks and balances. It has been dogged West Philadelphia met with a huge upset in Tuesfor decades by allegations of corruption. day’s primary, with Fairmount Park Conservancy DiSome have argued for eradicating the office altogether and subsuming it under the mayor’s purview, as is rector Jamie Gauthier unseating longtime incumbent Jannie Blackwell, who has reigned since 1992 when she done in New York, where the mayor has a deputy comtook over the seat from her husband, the late U.S. Rep. mittee of finance that oversees the sheriff’s duties. Lucian Blackwell. “Should we get rid of the office, that is a conversa“We worked really, really hard, and I’m thrilled and tion we may need to have. But until then it needs to be honored at the opportunity to serve the residents of the cleaned up,” Bilal told Philadelphiacitizen.org. third district and to move forward together,” Gauthier In addition to the sexual harassment charges, Williams posed other controversies. He added staff and told PW. According to preliminary results in the 3rd District, doubled his department’s budget but still consistently Gauthier had 56 percent of the votes compared to Blackexceeded its overtime budget. Williams said this was bewell’s 44 percent, with 97 percent of the precincts recause of vacancies in the office and other issues, such as porting. traffic on I-95. This ends a 45-year run for the Blackwells in West He asked for a budget increase of $3.5 million during Philadelphia, and Gauthier, who ran a grassroots camhis first term as sheriff, in part to buy a new pursuit vepaign, is calling for change. hicle for himself. Gauthier told PW that she wants to tackle gentrifiWilliams’ predecessor, Sheriff John Green, has pleadcation in part by expanding “Just Cause” legislation to ed guilty to accepting bribes during his decades in office. Philadelphia residents will have to see if Bilal is able help renters evade unfair evictions and that she likes the idea of providing free or low-cost counsel to resito restore integrity to this department and justify its ondents to fight housing injustice. going existence as an independent entity. Gauthier said she also wants to address the 33 perBilal seems to have history on her side as the first cent poverty rate in her district. African American woman to hold the office in the wake “We are one of the biggest economic engines in the of Williams’ sexual harassment allegations and in the city,” Gauthier said. “There has to be better ways to conatmosphere of the #metoo movement. But Bilal is not nect residents with jobs right here in the district.” without her own seemingly questionable past. Expanding job training, investing in the “equitable A former cop, she retired from the Philadelphia Police Department in 2013 during an investigation into a development” of commercial corridors and streamlinsecond job she had with Colwyn Borough. Bilal said she ing the tax code are on Gauthier’s list. She also wants to get local institutions to procure from locally-owned and was innocent of holding the two positions simultaneminority businesses, Gauthier said. ously, which would have been illegal.
NEWS
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY She is against the 10-year tax abatement, which enables developers to evade taxes on new construction and renovations for a decade, saying the repeal of the program would increase school funding. “Something has to happen,” Gauthier told PW. “I think the political will exists on council to do something about the program, and I’m in favor of that.” Can Quinones-Sanchez shake up growing Kensington? In North Philadelphia’s 7th District, which includes Kensington and Fairhill, the epicenter of the city’s opioid crisis, incumbent Maria Quinones-Sanchez has declared victory in a tight race, despite the fact that opponent Angel Cruz had not yet conceded, with 99 percent of precincts reporting. Quinones-Sanchez held onto a 52 percent lead over Cruz’s 48 percent. This will be Quinones-Sanchez’s fifth term on City Council. She was the first Latina to hold a council seat when she won in 2007. Quinones-Sanchez has advocated for investing in job training and creating sustainable jobs, reducing blight and eviction rates in an effort to transform vacant land and keep families in their homes. Her biggest recent achievement was the creation of the Philadelphia Land Bank to encourage neighborhood revitalization by empowering community groups, residents
and small businesses to repurpose vacant and blighted land. Quinones-Sanchez is totally against a supervised injection facility in Kensington and will continue to fight the potential placement of one there, where it was rumored a site was going to be located. “You don’t start in Kensington where you’ve lost the vote of confidence of people because we’ve not been able to keep them safe,” Quinones-Sanchez told PW. “Why not put them somewhere else and prove that the model works?” Is Kenney a lock for November win? Democratic Mayor Jim Kenney dispatched two challengers in Tuesday’s primary in a landslide. Cruising to victory with 67 percent of the vote, Kenney will more than likely win the Nov. 5 general election against Republican challenger Billy Ciancaglini, an attorney from South Philadelphia who ran unopposed in the primary since registered Democratic voters outnumber Republicans 7-to-1 in Philadelphia. “Serving as your mayor has been the greatest honor of my life,” Kenney said in his victory speech. “There’s something special about being mayor when you walk into a pre-K classroom and see how a quality education empowers our children. My frequent school visits serve as a powerful reminder of what we’re fighting for each and every day.”
Kenney was referencing his signature legislation, the sweetened beverage tax, popularly known as the soda tax, which will most likely continue now that he has been re-elected. Revenue from the 1.5 cents per ounce tax, which came into play at the start of 2017, funds pre-K and after-school programs, recreation centers, libraries and community programs. However, the soda tax is loathed by more than half of registered voters, according to polls, and confronts continued battles from industry and retailer groups. Philadelphia residents should expect more conflict on this front, but it’s unlikely that Kenney’s soda tax will be overturned. Kenney’s victory also means that he will continue to support the 10-year tax abatement program for new or remodeled properties, credited with revitalizing many neighborhoods but criticized for costing the schools $62 million in revenue in 2017, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. “I think it works and should be left alone,” Kenney told The Inquirer editorial board about the tax abatement program. However, Kenney has also said that he would sign off on whatever changes Philadelphia City Council – whose majority of members are opposed to the program – made to the tax abatement because he didn’t feel like it was worth the fight. A Kenney victory also means that his en-
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dorsement of supervised injection facilities, where drug users could go to inject under medical supervision and receive overdose reversal and other services, is fortified. The federal Justice Department, however, has filed a lawsuit against the nonprofit Safehouse, which is attempting to open the city’s first supervised injection facility. A majority of city council members also oppose the opening of a safe injection site, as do many residents. Despite Kenney’s endorsement, supervised injection facilities will continue to face ongoing conflict and backlash in Philadelphia. The AP called Kenney’s victory shortly after 9 p.m., and his opponents conceded. “You will hear my voice that speaks for those who don’t have the power, privilege and position that I currently have,” said state Sen. Anthony Williams, finishing second with 23 percent of the vote. “That will never stop. I will do that as long as I serve the public and bring truth to power.” Coming in third with only 10 percent of the vote, former city controller Alan Butkovitz said, “I’ve always said Jim Kenney has a good heart. I just felt in terms of management he was not bringing his best efforts to the job. I hope this campaign has sharpened his skills.”
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PW writer Courtenay Harris Bond spent time in and out of prison covering the life of a Kensington man named Noel Berrios. Over time developed a friendship developed that opened the doors for what life is really like on the inside – and out – for the disenfranchised. | Image courtesy: Courtenay Harris Bond
Doing Time III A five part series looking at the blurred lines of an authentic friendship
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A
s Noel waited at Philadelphia’s ant, soap, soups and other goods. “Why do you go through so much soap and Curran-Fromhold Correctional deodorant?” I once asked Noel. He said that he Facility for a bed to open up at showered three times a day. This sounded like rehab as part of the Forensic Intensive Recovery (FIR) program obsessive-compulsive disorder, a diagnosis I — which allows eligible inmates was unaware that he had. But Noel said that he felt compelled to shower that many times to receive substance abuse treata day in jail because it was so dirty with so ment and support services in many germs circulating through close quarlieu of incarceration—he became more and ters. Last year when he was at CFCF on anothmore frantic. Since a judge had accepted him into the FIR er bid, Noel developed an abscess in his throat. “Now how does one get an abscess in their program, Noel had been waiting more than throat?” Noel asked me, outraged at the memthree months to get out of CFCF, possibly longer than his sentence would have originally ory. He put in a sick slip and told been. the jail doctor when he final“I’m really struggling to ly saw him that his throat was hang in there,” Noel told me really sore. The doctor gave over the phone. “I’m really tryhim Tylenol or some analgesic, ing to keep myself calm.” He telling him he had probably became convinced that a mixcontracted a virus. But then up with his paperwork at the the abscess exploded in Noel’s courthouse had led to a delay in mouth one day while he was in his getting a bed. I didn’t know his hut. He was gagging up pus if this was true or not, but I and blood. That finally landed knew that Noel believed it was him in the hospital, where they true. This seeming fact drew treated him with intravenous him near the edge of despair. antibiotics and where he was Noel was out of money finally able to heal. for the commissary, out of He was chained by his wrist food (other than what the jail @CHARRISBOND to the hospital bed every day served, which he said went that he was there. right through him), and out Finally, in mid-January, of what he called “cosmetics,” things like deodorant and soap. He couldn’t Noel called. He was ecstatic that he had been assigned a bed in a treatment center at Eighth stand the rough, jail-issued variety. He wanted the dignity of buying something with scent Street and Girard Avenue at a leg of the North and heft that actually kept him from smelling Philadelphia Health System called Girard Medical Center, which faced major layoffs last like he lived on the streets, he said. I had been desperately trying to resist the year. Still, Noel had done time in the rehab there impulse to loan him money to buy such items before, felt he knew, for the most part, the lay from the brisk black market that operates inof the land and was optimistic about returnside CFCF and probably most jails and prising. He was leaving CFCF in just a few days for ons. As Noel explained it to me, a guy loads intake at Girard. up at the commissary on items inmates desire, “This is a really great feeling,” Noel told since the only way to buy from the commisme. “Now the work begins. I feel really good sary is by submitting a slip day in advance about this year. I think this is the year for me and receiving the goods once a week. Friends, lovers and families of inmates can Western that my life will change.” I said I hoped so. Union money to the man’s girlfriend on the Noel added that he felt like he wasn’t going outside. to give up this time during his 28 days in treatOnce she confirms to him through a phone ment. “I’m going to utilize everything they call that she has received the funds, he distribhave for me,” Noel said. utes the merchandise. I was fascinated by the The first time at Girard Medical Center, fact that prison officials tolerated this black even though he had become a community market system when they were so intolerant leader, Noel said he got out of there as soon as of so much less flagrant behavior. But despite possible. He said he wanted to get back to the my interest, I was trying to stay out of it. life of the “rush.” A few weeks earlier, when I “loaned” Noel Still, he had fond memories of his first $50, he told me to call a woman nicknamed round at Girard. His father had brought him “Klo-E,” who would give me instructions. She a whole Little Caesar’s pizza “in the box and told me to Western Union the money to her. It was quite a process, involving multiple texts everything. I gained good weight there, too. I exercised. I’ve been dying to hit the steel,” and of course a $12 fee Noel didn’t know or tell me about. Then passed several days when I Noel said. Then, as if reckoning with CFCF demons was convinced that “Klo-E” had duped me and before he left the jail, Noel said there was taken the money. something he needed to tell me but couldn’t But then she texted that she had retrieved the funds, and Noel thanked me during his next call, saying he had received his deodorSEE NOEL, PAGE 20
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NOEL, FROM PAGE 19
“A Journey to Resilience,” is a mural painted by James Burns and participants. It was painted along the wall of a halfway home Noel stayed in after a release from prison. | Image: Courtenay Harris Bond
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
really talk about on the phone. Of course, this only started me asking more questions. Who in their right mind would actually be recording and listening to all these phone calls anyway? “Weapons was brung out, you understand?” he asked me. “What?” “You know what weapons are, right? They was brung out.” Finally, I got it out of Noel that he was by himself in the day room and members of another gang (Noel belongs to the Latin Kings) approached him, armed, about some beef. Noel admitted that he, too, had a weapon. “You got two things in prison,” he told me. “Your word and your balls.” Although everything got “squashed” before violence erupted, “it was going to get dark,” Noel said. “Trust me, it was going to get dark. Like I told you, sometimes I got to put myself in survival mode. I’m not going to let anybody do that shit to me.” Our talk turned to what Noel would take from jail with him to the treatment center. “I ain’t taking anything from here. I might just take a bar of soap and deodorant and a pair of boxers.” During this stint in jail, Noel had done some time in the “hole,” or solitary confinement, be-
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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY ing let out one hour a day. Guards had tossed his hut and found a small bit of Suboxone, an opioid usually used in maintenance treatment for opioid use disorder but that can also cause a high when abused. Noel said when he went to the hole, he had “a nice little cotton acquirement, but that shit went to shit.” His cellie (jail slang for cellmate) wound up with his bag of stuff, and Noel had acquired a lot of nothing in return. “I’m going to leave here with the boxers I’m wearing and nothing else,” Noel decided. Our talk then turned to the fact that women would be on the same floor as Noel at the treatment center and about how rehab romances were dangerous. “I got a lot of things I need to take care of first [before having a girlfriend],” Noel said. “If I do meet a girl, I’m going to tell her, if you want to hang out and all that, that’s fine. But there are things I need to take care of first.” The Sunday evening before he left for 8th and Girard, Noel called and said he was nervous. He went over the calling procedure and visiting days with me, almost as if trying to reassure himself that he wouldn’t be alone on the outside. As much as he hated jail, it was a known, and now he was entering the somewhat unknown. The cliche came to mind that the devil you know is better than the devil you don’t. I chose not to share that with Noel. I arrived at 8th and Girard near Girard Medical Center, part of the North Philly Health System, a cluster of towers and buildings covering an approximately three-block radius, with a package of clothing I had gathered for Noel. I made my way from one building to the next, each security guard directing me to another place, none of them really knowing what they were talking about. Finally, one kind-hearted guard in attractive glasses took pity on me. She flagged down an official-looking older woman walking into the building, whose name I was sorry I failed to catch, and asked her if she could help me find where Noel Berrios was staying. The woman took me into her office, made a call and told me someone would be down to pick up the box. I gave her a hug and went to wait. When a young woman pushing a trolley cart finally arrived and spotted me with the package, she asked if there were any cigarettes in it since North Philly Health System—like all other city-affiliated treatment centers—had gone smoke-free as of the first of the year. “No cigarettes, no food, no nothing. Just clothes,” I said, and went out to try to find the car that I had illegally parked. Noel called that night, speaking in what sounded like a quieter, deeper voice, perhaps because he was no longer shouting over the din of a jailhouse population, some of whom were always in line behind him waiting for the phone. “Hey, gangster rat!” he said, his usual greeting. We chatted briefly about how he was set-
tling in, about how happy he was to finally be out of jail. Noel thanked me for the clothes. “I’ve got the jeans on right now,” he said. “They fit [perfectly.]” He told me that there was a one-hour orientation on Sundays at 1 p.m. and that visiting was from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Then he asked me for another favor. “Can you call my dad and tell him I need like $25?” In a moment of weakness, I agreed. I felt conflicted because I had taken time away from my family and spent more than $100 on shirts, jeans and a coat for Noel the previous day. I wanted to give him a kick-start to his treatment. I also felt that I was again crossing a boundary from a journalist into a friend, but I didn’t really care that much at this point. However, after we hung up Monday evening, I began to feel resentful toward Noel—maybe that he wasn’t more thankful about how I had gone out of my way for him over the past two days and that he had again asked me to call his father for a favor, something I had already told Noel not to do. I called anyway, angry with myself for caving in. After some initial chit-chat, I told Mr. Berrios that I had dropped off some clothes for Noel earlier in the day and that he had asked me to call him to see if he could rustle up a few dollars for soap, deodorant and so forth. “You already brought him clothes?” Mr. Berrios asked. “Yes,” I said. “Well, why didn’t he tell me that when I spoke to him?” “When did you talk to him?” “About an hour ago,” Mr. Berrios said. So had I. Noel seemed to be playing us against each other to his favor. Did he fail to tell his father about the clothes so maybe Mr. Berrios would bring him more? And Noel had told me to call his father and plead his case, although he had already spoken to Mr. Berrios just before or after he had talked to me. We didn’t have his number. Noel was calling us. And he seemed to be calling the shots. Or maybe it was more innocent than that. I wanted to give Noel the benefit of the doubt. After all, no matter what, we had gotten to know each other very well. We were friends. And even if he was using me, I was also using him as material, possibly for a series of articles, possibly for a book. “Time will tell if he takes things more seriously this time,” Mr. Berrios said, noting the fact that Noel had already been in the same treatment center, as part of the FIR program, once before. “Time will tell.” Noel had said that in prison you only had your balls and your word. If he was playing his father and me off each other, if he was manipulating us, he was certainly showing his balls. But since it was only the first day for Noel on the road toward what I hoped would be some sort of recovery this time, I decided to still take him at his word.
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PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
Costly Joint-Pain Injections Replaced By New $2 Pill New pill boosts the same lubricating joint �luid as expensive and painful injections - without using a needle. Users report dramatic relief from swelling, pain and stiffness without side effects and expense. Health News Syndicate HNS—A popular needle injection for people with joint pain is now available in an inexpensive nonprescription pill. The breakthrough came when researchers discovered a way to deliver the injected “relief molecule” through the digestive system. Top US clinics have used these needle injections for years because they deliver powerful relief. Unfortunately, the shots are painful and expensive. They also only work on the joint being treated. The new pill, called Synovia, delivers the same “relief molecule” as the injections. However, it has some impressive advantages. First, it’s inexpensive and nonprescription. Also, relief is delivered to every joint in the body because it enters the bloodstream through the digestive system. This gives it the ability to reduce a much wider variety of pain. Users report greater �lexibility and less stiffness in their knees. Hands and shoulders move pain-free for the �irst time in years. Even neck and lower back pain improve dramatically. All this without spending over $600 on needle injections and taking trips to the doctor every week. The medical community is very excited about this new breakthrough. Dr. Jacob Moss says, “Synovia is a great option for those suffering from joint pain. Injections are usually a last resort because of the pain and expense. However, Synovia should be
BEFORE: No lubricating fluid �luid or or UNHEALTHY: No lubricating cartilage lead to to pain bone-on-bone cartilage leads painful bone-onrubbing. bone rubbing.
taken at the �irst sign of discomfort.” New Discovery The needle injection procedure has been given to hundreds of thousands of patients over the last several years. Doctors use the shots to boost a critical element of the joint called synovial �luid. This lubricating �luid is found between the cartilage and bones of every joint. According to the �irm’s head of R&D, Mike McNeill, “Researchers have been working for years to �ind a way to boost this �luid noninvasively. The problem was the molecule used in the injections was too large to absorb into the bloodstream.” Top scientists conquered this obstacle by �inding a smaller form of the same molecule. This new glucose form is easily absorbed by your stomach and intestines! Now those who suffer from joint pain can get relief without painful injections. At less than $2 per day, early users like Steve Young are impressed. He says, “I’ve tried more pills than I can count, without any luck. Synovia is different. My knees and hands haven’t felt this good in years!” Impressive Clinical Results Leading clinics use injection therapy because it works. Recent clinical trials show the pill form also delivers major relief. One example is a landmark study out of Europe. In the study the active ingredient in Synovia was compared
AFTER: Synovia’s HEALTHY: Synovia’sactive activeingredients ingredients lubricatejoints jointsand and nourish nourish cartilage! cartilage so it lubricate can re-grow!
to a popular NSAID pain reliever. The goal was to see if it could reduce pain and swelling around the knee. The results were incredible! After just 30 days, more than 8 out of 10 people who took Synovia’s active ingredient had NO swelling. However, only 2 out of 10 people who took the NSAID experienced reduced swelling. The study also looked at cases of severe swelling. Amazingly, zero cases of severe swelling were detected in the group taking the active ingredient found in Synovia. This means it was 100% effective for the cases of severe swelling! In contrast, 9 out of 10 people taking the NSAID still had severe swelling. McNeill points out, “The impressive thing about this study is the active ingredient wasn’t tested against a fake pill. It was up against one of the most popular NSAIDs people use every day. It’s easy to see why people in pain are excited to get relief without an injection.” The New Way It Delivers Relief Getting relief without injections has big advantages. The most obvious is avoiding being stuck by a large needle every week for 5 weeks. Another downside of injections is the doctor can “miss”. The needle needs to be inserted into a precise spot in the joint to work. Otherwise, you risk the treatment being ineffective. However, boosting your lubricating joint �luid by taking a pill delivers relief to all your joints, not just one. There’s an additional reason the active ingredient in Synovia works so well – it nourishes the cartilage. McNeill says, “This is vital because cartilage does not have blood vessels. The �luid in the joint serves two very important pain-relief roles: lubrication and giving the cartilage the nutrients it needs.” Approved By Leading Doctors The new delivery system for this molecule has caught the attention of
NO MORE NEEDLES: A popular needle injection pain-killer for joint pain is being replaced. The key molecule in these injections can now be delivered by taking a new low-cost pill called Synovia.
leading medical doctors. “Needle injections for joint pain have been around for years because they work. Being able to get the same relief molecule through a pill is amazing. Injections may be a last resort, but I’d recommend Synovia at the �irst sign of pain,” said Dr. Marie Laguna. Dr. Moss adds, “The research behind the active ingredient in Synovia is very exciting. This product is a great choice for those who haven’t had success with other joint pain treatments.” 110% Money Back Guarantee Amazing feedback from users of Synovia has generated a wave of con�idence at the company. So much so that they now offer Synovia with a 110% money back guarantee. The company’s president, Michael Kenneth says, “We’ve seen how well it works. Now we want to remove any risk for those who might think Synovia sounds too good to be true.” Simply take the pill exactly as
directed. You must enjoy fast acting relief. Otherwise, return the product as directed and you’ll receive 100% of your money back plus an extra 10%. How To Get Synovia Today marks the of�icial release of Synovia in New Jersey. As such, the company is offering a special discounted supply to everyone who calls within the next 48 hours. A Regional Order Hotline has been set up for local readers to call. This is the only way to try Synovia with their “110% money back” guarantee. Starting at 6:00 am today the order hotline will be open for 48 hours. All you have to do is call TOLL FREE 1-888-534-3349 and provide the operator with the special discount approval code: SYN19. The company will do the rest. Current supplies of Synovia are limited, and callers that don’t get through to the order hotline within the next 48 hours may have to pay more and wait until more inventory is produced. This could take as long as 6 weeks.
THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. ALL DOCTORS MENTIONED ARE REMUNERATED FOR THEIR SERVICE. ALL CLINICAL STUDIES WERE INDEPENDENTLY CONDUCTED AND WERE NOT SPONSORED BY MAKERS OF SYNOVIA.
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Take our Quiz With abortion being banned in more and more states, we want to challenge the policymakers to see how much they know about the law they’re fighting to eradicate. | Image: PW file photo
Know your shit We offer the following pop quiz for all the pro-lifers nixing a woman’s right to choose BY TIMAREE SCHMIT
N
o one can be an expert in every subject. In fact, few people are truly experts at even one thing. Unfortunately, knowledge level and confidence in one’s opinion aren’t terribly related. This is seen in imposter syndrome – when an incredibly educated person doubts themselves – and in the Dunning-Kruger effect, when someone falsely thinks they’re competent and can’t see their errors. To say the legislators behind the recent swath of abortion bans are falling prey to the Dunning-Kruger effect, miscalculating their own comprehension of the science of reproduction, would be a generous interpretation. But imagine if, in order to legislate something, lawmakers had to demonstrate at least a minimal level of understanding first? The following is a very brief quiz for elected officials of all levels, to check for baseline knowledge on anatomy, reproduction and pregnancy. It’s the kind of information that would be developmentally appropriate for someone to have in middle school – if Republicans hadn’t been actively fighting sex education for the last several decades.
1. Assuming day one is the first day of menses, and that someone has an average menstrual cycle of 28 days, on which days is ovulation most likely to happen? a. Days 5-10 b. Days 13-18 c. Days 21-25 d. Days 26-28 2. Which is not a routine part of a gynecological exam? a. External exam of vulva b. Speculum is inserted in the vagina c. Camera is inserted inside the mouth d. Bi-manual exam, where a doctor presses down on abdo men while gloved and lubricated fingers are inserted in the vagina false about twins? 3. Whicha.isIdentical twins share the same genetic information
b. Fraternal twins occur when two different eggs are re leased and both are fertilized and implant c. Odds of becoming pregnant with twins goes down with increased age d. Being pregnant with twins is much harder on the preg nant person’s body
4. When is the earliest a fetus can survive outside of a pregnant person’s body? a. 6 weeks b. 12 weeks c. 20 weeks d. 24 weeks 5. If a fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube, which is also known as an ectopic pregnancy, which is not a possible out come? a. The pregnancy can be ended with drugs or surgery b. Miscarriage c. The pregnant person may experience serious complica tions or even death d. The fertilized egg can be moved to the uterus
SEE SEX, PAGE 24
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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You took the quiz, now it’s time to see how much you know when it comes to your “informed decision” on abortion and a woman’s right to choose.
Answers: 1. B.
Days 13-20. Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovaries and starts its path down the fallopian tube. It is during this time that conception is possible. But this varies dramatically from person to person.
Why do legislators need to know this?
Fertility isn’t always predictable and conception can happen when it’s not expected, even among those who use fertility tracking methods. The best bet to avoid unintended pregnancy is consistent and correct use of contraceptive methods. Many hormonal methods are also prescribed for other health conditions. Someone should tell this to the Trump administration who have broadened employers’ ability to deny contraceptive coverage to employees.
2. C.
4. D.
A camera inserted inside the mouth would not reach the reproductive organs, but head through the digestive system or airway. The other parts are normal parts of the exam.
24 weeks. The world record for earliest premature birth that survived was just shy of 22 weeks. Fewer than half of 23-week births can survive outside of a uterus, even with medical support. According to the medical community, 24 weeks is considered the point of viability.
Why do legislators need to know this?
Why do legislators need to know this?
Someone ought to review anatomy with Idaho state representative Vito Barbieri who asked, during a hearing on telemedicine, if a woman can swallow a camera for doctors to conduct a remote gynecological exam.
3. C.
Because odds of carrying twins increase with maternal age. Other factors that increase the odds of twins include: number of previous pregnancies and use of assisted reproductive techniques.
Why do legislators need to know this?
Certainly Sen. Willitan Ligon, Jr. (R-GA) needs to hear this, since he falsely argued that “in modern medicine, we know that life in the womb begins at conception. We know that the child’s life is unique with his or her own DNA and blood type.” Having separate blood types and DNA is not the basis on which we decide whether a life is viable.
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
A number of states are holding up signs like these as a ongoing fight against Roe v. Wade wages on in courts all across the country. | Image: Maria Oswalt
Someone ought to tell Georgia state senator Matt Brass that he was wrong when he said even at the embryo stage, that it is an entirely “separate entity from its mother.” In reality, a fetus is unable to survive outside of a pregnant person’s body at this stage of development- and it’s considered an embryo until the ninth week.
5. D.
There is no procedure that moves an ectopic pregnancy to the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies are considered non-viable and must be ended before the pregnant person faces serious health risks.
Why do legislators need to know this?
A recent Ohio bill aims to prohibit insurance coverage of abortion, with few exceptions – including a non-existent procedure "that is intended to reimplant the fertilized ovum into the pregnant woman's uterus.
mature birth wer than half uterus, even edical comof viability.
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THE SHAPE OF WATER
Champion of the Bored & Lonely
♫ It’s Always Something ♫
It Wasn’t Just a Phase. May 23rd, 2019
It happened once, in Louisville, Kentucky, that I was walking through the downtown area in the minutes leading up to a severe summer thunder storm. I turned a corner and before me, unblemished and stretched to rational extreme, stood a large sheet of tinted plate glass. I was a horny train kid at the time, and my first thought, the synapse that fired before I could police it, was, “Oh my god! Who is that beautiful girl and how can I make her love me.” That was 12 years ago. I’ve answered one question but not the other. Now whenever I turn a corner with a storm at my back and happen upon a group of people, I pray for a mirror. I pray for some hint or remembrance to get me back to a place where I liked myself and actually loved and wanted to kiss myself. Alas.
WELCOME TO THE JUMBLE TOLPI GAGABEG CITTEK GANDLIN GIVERTO What breakfast snack joined the Air Force?
w this?
or Matt n at the te entity e to survive s stage of yo until the
PUZZLES
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
Ray’s Happy Birthday Bar guy 1- Jesus Christ I need a cigarette. guy 2- I need a hydrocodone, we all got problems.
Hagert Street middle school gal chasing boy looking at a phone(screaming) Kevin! If you look at her vagina I'm not going to talk to you for the Kensington Parade rest of the day! I swear person- You gotta be care- to god! ful, you don’t know where your face is going. Monkey Club person- He fed chicken bones to a rabbit at Bojangles.
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Johnny Brendas person- Dude it was awesome. All we talked about was methamphetamines and it went really well.
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wipe your feet before climbing into my heart. Have a Terrif ic Week !
For solutions to this puzzle and others, visit philadelphiaweekly.com 56. Monitors workplace safety 25. The floor you can not touch left-rights (abbr) 27. All your __ are belong to us 1. Mythical violin (abbr) 58. Guns on the side of a ship 28. Killed Goliath 6. Main antagonist of “Best 61. Daria’s sister 30. Best place to rob a restaurant Served Cold” 62. Griffindor mascot 31. Room chillers (acronym) 10. Prominent Argonaut 63. What Gil from Simpsons 32. Spins the thread of life 14. Lobster claw seeks 33. Devoid of a concrete 15. Lotion before you put on on 64. First king of Israel structure 16. A brief record 65. Genuine 34. Films with twist endings 17. Potter’s clay 66. Ass blasting 36. If it’s beast, you best watch 18. Honor fight 67. Vaulted recess out. 19. Common bacterial culture 68. A unified body with no 38. Sperm spawners substrate particular shape 40. Patriarch of Babylonian gods 20. Defining trait of a binary 69. Disrespectfully lively and 41. Ibuprofen, for instance solar system (two words) stylish (acronym) 22. Labor law agency (acronym) up-downs 46. A mark of status or 23. Sarah Koenig podcast 1. Large quantities accomplishment 24. Tiny white facial cysts 2. A condition of extreme 48. According to Ween, they’re 26. Men born of dogs (abbr) difficulty free 29. The range, as it’s understood 50. My cousin that used to read 31. Collections that reflect ones 3. Rich black Indian loam 4. The purpose of a criss cross manga with me character murder 52. Lunar archer 35. Devoid of follicle 5. East of Fort Worth 53. English punk band that gave 37. A big fat swollen vein 6. Better than a Pontiac, worse us Brutalism 39. Performed with empathic than a Buick 54. Tall Indian evergreens awarenesses of suffering 7. Uncover with digging 55. Composed, tight personal 42. Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr 8. Necessary for top hat punks view 43. It’s in your best interest to to travel 56. Catalan motorcycle make these meet 9. Death fuel ocean base manufacturer 44. Subsidiary wings of (2 words) 57. A brisk sharp crack buildings 59. The peanut butter to Ahhs’ 45. What the necromancer says 10. Unable to ambulate 11. Evergreen shrub (2 words) jelly to the corpse 12. Essential floral oil 60. Picnic ruiners 47. Cool term for camping stuff 13. Born between Romania and 49. Yankee Doodle called it Croatia macaroni 21. Tarpons cousins 51. Traditional antiseptic
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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THUR M AY 2 3
MUSIC
Betty Who
Betty’s been through it all in her music career. She’s been signed to a major record label, and even created the theme song for the second season of Queer Eye. But she’s broken free of all that and is flexing her indie pop wings while being free of any labels. | 8:30 pm. $21. Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St.
THE SCENE A WEEK'S WORTH OF ADVENTURES A C R O S S P H I L LY N E I G H B O R H O O D S
LEARN
Archspire
FOOD & DRINK
The Community Table
There isn’t enough events out there that are simply about sitting down and making conversation. That’s exactly what this jawn is, though. It’s a mostly homecooked dinner hosted by a local business coach who just wants to bring a community together. Would you pass the potatoes over to us, please? | 6 pm. $43. The Collective Table, 218 Market St. eventbrite.com
An anything goes, solo performance about the life of a Philly native. It seems like Gerard Argeros is going to cover everything about his life story, from his super personal issues to the political and cultural climate of his coming of age. Be ready for a candid and crazy storytime. | 7 pm. Free. Maas Building, 1325 N. Randolph St.
Pick Your Own Path
MUSIC
ticketweb.com
PERFORMANCE
Fox Chase Boy
eventbrite.com
etix.com
Heavy fucking metal times four. Archspire and the three supporting artists on this bill are touring the whole country in less than a month. The Vancouver native band be playing their newest album “Relentless Mutation” in full. | 6 pm. $18. Voltage Lounge, 421 N. 7th St.
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Comcast NBCUniversal Memorial Salute
This weekend is all about showing the love for the troops. It’s why the legendary Philly POPS will host the fourth annual POPS Salute Series, honoring U.S. service members and the brave families that support them. The legendary Philly POPS, conducted by Todd Ellison will be alongside David Montgomery – the former chairman and president of the Phillies – who is also receiving an honor at this show. Best of all, it’s free. So fly in on your pet eagle and sing along to all your favorite patriotic songs. It’s events like these that pump us up and make us so damn proud to not only be Americans but also Philadelphians. America was born here, so you bet we know how to show our love for our country. Illegal fireworks and loud ass street bikes. If you’re not going to be laid up at a barbeque all weekend, you better be thinking of going to this because this doesn’t sound weirdly dystopian at all. WHAT: Comcast NBCUniversal Memorial Salute WHEN: May 25, 5 pm COST: Free WHERE: The Mann Center, 5201 Parkside Ave. MORE: phillypops.org
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
We’re not sure we ever want to feel like we’re living during the Cold War again. Honestly, though, there’s always scary political tension going on today, anyway. This is a choose your own adventure type of event that puts you in the shoes of a 50s cowboy during the Uranium boom. Use your wits to make different decisions than those that were made during the USSR arms race. | 6 pm. $10. Science History Institute, 315 Chestnut St. eventbrite.com MUSIC
Joanne Shaw Taylor
Taylor’s pretty damn big in the UK, and she’s set on being just as famous across the pond. She’s a solo blues artist who started out in 2009 and is not stopping any time soon. She actually just released a single, “All My Love,” this past week. | 8 pm. $25. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. facebook.com
LEARN
How to Ask for Money WithoutShame
We think we’ve all shamefully asked for money before. This event isn’t really about how to ask your parents for money when you’re in your 20s - it’s more so for organizations and getting funding for ideas. More grown-up, and important, than you would think. | 6 pm. Prices vary. Cultureworks Greater Philadelphia, 1315 Walnut St. ticketleap.com FOOD & DRINK
Guac Off 2019
You won’t feel guilty about binging on unlimited chips and guac here. When it’s all for a good cause, you can’t hold back. This culinary competition of local restaurants’ best guac is all to benefit MANNA, an organization that prepares meals for people with lifethreatening illnesses. | 6 pm. $35. Morgan’s Pier, 221 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd. mannapa.org
FRI M AY 2 4
PARTY
All White On Di Rooftop
COMEDY
For My One Yea Annive Show
Let my people decent come this for once. a game show groups of com representing group. Stereo prejudices wil group attemp an entire race should be fun Philly Improv Sansom St.
eventbrite.c MUSIC
AzN Po
This is a essential white party on top of a Southern The “rice” girl have proven t restaurant - you better legendary gir believe there will be killer music and food being served here to sing to all night long. The dress code about racism is strictly white clothes only. and boys. The The risk of getting stains is been inspired too damn high. | 8 pm. $20- but these girls $25. Warmdaddy’s, 1400 S. current. | 8:30 Christopher Columbus Blvd. Good Comed N. 11th St. facebook.com goodgoodco
CALENDAR
LYWEEKLYPHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY a chance to win some “big” prizes. | 11 am. Free. Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd. facebook.com PARTY
PnB Rock: Trapstar Turnt Popstar Party
AzN Pop!
COMEDY
For My People: One Year Anniversary Show
Let my people go to a decent comedy show like this for once. It’s actually a game show with two groups of comedians each representing a minority group. Stereotypes and prejudices will fly as each group attempts to represent an entire race or culture. This should be fun. | 8 pm. $10. Philly Improv Theater, 2030 Sansom St. eventbrite.com MUSIC
AzN PoP!
The “rice” girls from NYC have proven themselves a legendary girl group. They’re here to sing to our hearts about racism, oppression and boys. They may have been inspired by a 90s group, but these girls definitely stay current. | 8:30 pm. $16. Good Good Comedy Theatre, 215 N. 11th St. goodgoodcomedy.com
PARTY
Worldtown: Travel by Map
Travel the world without even leaving Philly. This is a monthly party held by the high-energy electro group Worldtown Soundsystem. Mingle with creators and artists from around the world and try to talk to them over the bass. This month’s guest of honor is Saved by the Rhythm from NYC. | 10 pm. Free. Front Street Cafe, 1253 N. Front St. facebook.com MUSIC
Monster Mash Punk Fest This jawn is throwing two days of loud ass punk in our faces. If you typically scare normal people, this is probably the right place for you to be. Just jam out to some crazy punk and celebrate being your monstrous self. | 6 pm. Prices vary. The Tusk, 430 South St. facebook.com
INTERESTS
Life with A Twist: Mental Health Conference
The perfect wrap-up to mental health awareness month. Dr. Kia F. Everett will talk some sense on several relevant mental health topics, like suicide prevention, #MeToo and the stress of “navigating the system.” None of us are above taking care of ourselves, so you should definitely check this discussion out. | 6:30 pm. $30. Brith Sholom House, 3939 Conshohocken Ave. facebook.com FESTIVAL
Univestival
We love events named after their corporate sponsors. A good ol’ weekend-long festival to celebrate Memorial Day weekend. The usual food, music and festival activities will be on the menu. This one’s special, though, because you can participate in some make and take activities and get
PnB Rock is a Philly native and a fresh trap artist. He even managed to drop music and get his name out there when he was in jail - now that’s some dedication right there. The hustle has definitely paid off, and judging by his sound and big collabs with Diplo and XXXTentatcion on his album from this year, “Trapstar Turnt Popstar,” you’d never guess he even started at the bottom in the first place. | 10 pm. $20-$30. NOTO, 1209 Vine St. seetickets.us
SAT M AY 2 5
ART
Vivid Trails: A Psychedelic Art Experience
A larger than life live experience for those who want to go on an artistic journey. Body and live painters, digital artists, musicians and go-go dancers will help make the experience a memorable one. We’re pretty psyched for this jawn. | 9 pm. $10. Location varies. facebook.com
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FOOD & DRINK
Brunch with Bosses
This is for all the boss ladies that run their shit like a pro. Learn how to brand yourself, create wealth and how to start a business and keep it afloat. There’s even an exact menu of all the food that will be there - this is clearly for people who already know what they want. | 11 am. $75. IATSE Ballroom, 2401 S. Swanson St. eventbrite.com MUSIC
Metal for Miracles Charity Show Loud ass metal to benefit children’s futures - now that’s a cause we can get behind. A few local metal bands, including Make My Blood Dance, will be performing at this show for the Children’s Literacy Initiative. Help teach those children how to read - and how to headbang to some great music. | 7 pm. $10. The Fire, 412 W. Girard Ave. brownpapertickets.com INTERESTS
Liberty Flea
If it’s vintage, it must be cool, right? Get all your essential vintage goods at this market. A new season is coming, so of course you have to get a whole new wardrobe. | 10 am. Free. Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd. facebook.com
PnB Rock
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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EVENT
Fireworks Cruise
It’s not Memorial Day Weekend without some fireworks. This is the first cruise of the season. Before you set sail into the Delaware, get entertained on the waterfront by the U.S. Air Force band. | 9 pm. $45. Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd. facebook.com PARTY
Pupper Pool Party
Another first of the season. Bring your pups to make a splash with some furry friends. Unless you have no soul, this is guaranteed to bring you all the happiness you need to get through
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY the summer. Say no more we’re in. | 1 pm. Prices vary. Pet Friendly Dog Bakery, 4324 Main St. facebook.com OUTDOORS
Nature Therapy Walk
Some of us should probably talk to a therapist, but all the therapy some of us need can be found in the land around us. Separate yourself from all the city chaos and connect with mother nature. You can’t stay inside and spite the sun forever - get out there and bask in all the glory of nature. | 9 am. $35. Awbury Arboretum, 823 Washington Ln. eventbrite.com
SUN M AY 2 6
LGBTQ
Dyke Ride & Crafting Happy Hour Dykes, queers and allies welcome for this bike ride through Philly’s neighborhoods. Ok, we just noticed the pun of the title. The route is about 10 miles long, so you better be ready for an intense workout. Meet up at Tattooed Mom afterwards to craft some posters for the upcoming Philly Dyke March. | 10 am. Free. Kahn Park, 328 S. 11th St. facebook.com
FOOD & DRINK
Manayunk Mac & Cheese Crawl
You’ll literally be crawling around Manayunk after you try all that delicious food. Fifteen bars and restaurants will be ready to prove to you that their mac & cheese is the mac daddy of them all. If you weren’t lactose intolerant before, you probably will be after this. | Saturday, 1 pm. $9.95. Locations vary. upcoming-events.com
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
FOOD & DRINK
Black Chef Seafood Fest
Be “shellfish” and binge on some great food. Eat all the crabs you want and grab unlimited food and drinks from the buffet and open bar. This just sounds like a full-on assault of the best seafood in Philly and we are definitely here for it. | 4 pm. $77.55. KANVAS, 3870 Lancaster Ave. facebook.com FESTIVAL
Memorial Day Mini Festival
Bikini models, drinking and smoking encouraged... it’s like they know the direct way to our hearts. Philly’s own Wilde Tuna will host this unorthodox Memorial Day bash. There’s nothing fishy about it - it’s just a genuinely badass sounding two-day blowout. | 8 pm. $18.
Puppy Pool Party
Franklin Music Hall, 421 N. 7th St. eventbrite.com PARTY
Twerk Sumthin’
Another party that steps away from all the Memorial Day celebration norms. This one has a twerk contest, so that alone makes this sound pretty dope. Even if you’re not a dancer, everyone is welcome at this QPOC centered space. | 10 pm. Prices vary. Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar, 254 S. 12th St. facebook.com
LGBTQ
Glitter High, Drag Out
You’ll probably be shitting glitter after this party. Drag kings and drag monsters, including the talents of Hannibal Lickher and Tex Miller, will be owning the stage. Hosted by Baked Pizza and Nile Raven, this night sure isn’t short of legendary drag performers. | 9 pm. $10-$15. Tattooed Mom, 530 South St. facebook.com
PARTY
Hot Pink Satan This duo is headlining an extravaganza for your nerve at your favorite local bar. Hot Pink Satan creates some edgy electronic bangers that will make you feel like you’re burning in a fabulous Hell. | 6:30 pm. $8. Franky Bradley’s, 1320 Chancellor St. facebook.com MUSIC
Hallow Point
Not all heavy metal bands sound the same. Hallow Point, hailing from the Midwest, is trying to push the boundaries of what you’d expect from metal music. Their latest EP “Beyond Our Name” from 2017 proves that they are more than just another band. | 7 pm. $10. The Fire, 412 W. Girard Ave. eventbrite.com
CALENDAR
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INTERESTS
Derby Q 12
This jawn centered around one of the baddest sports is divided into three parts. There’s an open skate, scrimmages and a barbeque afterward. We don’t know shit about roller derby, but we know that this sounds like a fun time. | Sunday, 12 pm. $10-$15. Penn Jersey Roller Derby, 3431 Fox St. pennjerseyrollerderby.com
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
30 X
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PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
MON M AY 2 7
FITNESS
Memorial Day Rock n’ Metal Yoga Flow
You probably wouldn’t think that metal would chill you out at all. Well, you’d be surprised. It’s like we can make anything into a yoga class these days. We’re always looking for ways to disconnect from this fucked up world we live in. | 10 am. $15. Palo Santo Wellness Boutique Yoga Studio, 1707 E. Passyunk Ave. facebook.com COMEDY
Day Off
Got the day off of work? Come out to this comedy show. Established comics Will Miles, Kenny Deforest and Clark Jones will be your hosts for the evening. When there’s free beer being served for all, you really have no excuse not to go. | 8 pm. $12. Good Good Comedy Theatre, 215 N. 11th St.
DISCUSSION
Death Cafe
A monthly meeting of minds to talk about everyone’s favorite topic. Join in on the conversation and contribute any of your unique experiences. This discussion definitely is made interesting by the people who attend it. | 6:45 pm. Free. Barnes & Noble, 1805 Walnut St. facebook.com
facebook.com
Memorial Day Irish Fest
Who doesn’t love a great party with some beer and live music on Memorial Day? This annual festival is hosted by one of the oldest German-American clubs in the U.S. | 11 am. $10. Cannstatter Volksfest Verein, 9130 Academy Rd. eventbrite.com
Memorial Day Skate Party
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
FESTIVAL
Memorial Dei Family Picnic and Festival
Bring your family to a classic outdoor festival at a church. There will be music all day on three stages and face painting for kids. We can’t think of a more typical Memorial Day event that everyone could go to. | 12 pm. $15. Gloria Dei Old Swedes Church, 913 S. Swanson St. facebook.com
INTERESTS
facebook.com
This band does surf punk so well. On their comprehensive album of their first five years of music from 2017, no one song sounds the same as the other. Transport yourself to the beach without having to go to the shore. | 7 pm. Prices vary. Pharmacy, 1300 S. 18th St.
FESTIVAL
goodgoodcomedy.com
We’re proud to be American, where at least we know we can go skating for 99 cents. That is, if you wear red, white and blue, of course. Own that rink and show off your athletic abilities (or lack thereof).| 1 pm. Prices vary. Rolling Thunder Skating Rink, 7017 E. Roosevelt Blvd.
MUSIC
Le Yikes Surf Club
Day Off
COMEDY
Memorial Day Parade: A Comedy Variety Show
You don’t have to go to the typical barbeque or festival - you could just go to an unpredictable comedy show instead. Apparently, it’s centered around a small town’s first Memorial Day Parade that may or may not go off the rails. We can’t tell you what to expect from this, so just be ready for anything. | 7:30 pm. $5. Philly Improv Theater, 2030 Sansom St. eventbrite.com
CALENDAR
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PERFORMANCE
Contradict This! A Birthday Funeral for Heroes
Bobby McFerrin
TUES M AY 2 8
FOOD & DRINK
Brews & Views
This is the second round of the rooftop spring miniseries. Drink some fine beer from local breweries and eat finger foods. Everything’s better when you do it on top of a roof. | 5 pm. Free. Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine St. facebook.com MUSIC
Ladies Night
A night of three powerful women in music. Maggie Mae, Kate Dressed Up and Ntive Flora are the stars of this night. Each musician brings their own funky style of music to the stage to make this lineup feel complete. | 8 pm. $8. Bourbon & Branch, 705 N. 2nd St. facebook.com
DISCUSSION
The Future of the Human Race, Evolution and Hybrid Children
Um, this sounds like it’s going to be interesting. This is a discussion on our connection with non-human intelligence by Mary Rodwell, known as the “alien lady.” She has investigated thousands of cases of human contact with extraterrestrials, and believes there are “Indigo” and “Crystal” children out there with telepathic abilities. Well, that’s a lot to take in. | 7 pm. Prices vary. 7770 Dungan Rd. facebook.com
MUSIC
Daniel Kahn & The Painted Bird
This Berlin-based band is making revolutionary music influenced by Jewish protest. Their sound fuses the genres of klezmer, punk and folk and makes radical statements. You don’t want to miss this one of a kind group - who knows if they’ll ever be visiting Philly again? | Tuesday 7:30 pm. $10$30. Calvary Center, 801 S. 48th St.
Join The Bearded Ladies Cabaret in honoring Walt Whitman’s 200th birthday. The gay poet, who has become an icon of the LGBTQ community, will be celebrated with an outdoor performance that tells a story of who he was. | 7:30 pm. Prices vary. Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
crossroadsconcerts.org
eventbrite.com LEARN
Women’s Ground Self Defense Workshop
This world isn’t generally safe for women. A self-defense workshop in how to defend yourself and escape a dangerous situation is definitely necessary. Let your lady friends know about this one, because it’s something they can all stand to learn. | 6 pm. $25. Philly Self Defense, 1333 N. Front St. womensdefense. eventzilla.net
MUSIC
Bobby McFerrin
This incredible Grammywinning legend is blessing our city with his presence. He gave us the most uplifting classic song, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” You should worry if you miss out on catching him live, so try not to. | 8 pm. $80-$85. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. worldcafelive.com
MUSIC
Bodega
Philly peeps know a good bodega better than anyone. Hopefully this band shows us that they know how to play art rock better than anyone, too. This NYC-based folks have Philly as their first stop on their current U.S. tour. | Tuesday, 7:30 pm. $10. Boot & Saddle, 1131 S. Broad St. bootandsaddlephilly.com
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
32 X
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MUSIC
Pedro Capo
This Puerto Rican pop star is bringing the heat to Philly. He really caught the world by storm with his single “Calma,” which was remixed by Farruko and Alicia Keys and instantly blew up. We don’t know how anyone could resist dancing to his infectious Latin beats. | 8 pm. $35. Theatre of the Living Arts, 334 South St.
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY COMEDY
SuperMega
Remember when you were a loser if you were known on the internet? These guys are a duo that’s pretty famous on and offline. They’ll be hosting a live podcast where they talk video games - the topic they’re known for making Youtube videos on - among other things, we’re sure. | 8 pm. $25. Underground Arts, 1200 Callowhill St. ticketfly.com
livenation.com
PERFORMANCE
You Can’t Kill a Poet
A space for queer and trans writers to openly share their work. This one’s special, though, because it’s marking the fifth anniversary of the start of these gatherings. Bring your friends to meet some new readers and hear some interesting stories. | 7:30 pm. Free. Tattooed Mom, 530 South St. facebook.com
FESTIVAL
MUSIC
Sittin’ In: Chill Moody
This is a series designed to introduce you to some cutting-edge artists of our time. Chill Moody is a local musician who was named Philadelphia’s Music Ambassador by Councilman David Oh. He’s active in music and business affairs, and even has his own record label. Chill out with one of Philly’s best. | 9 pm. Free. Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St. kimmelcenter.org EVENT
Fill the Steps Against Gun Violence
We’re always outraged at how much gun violence still goes down today. Stand with thousands of Philadelphians that have also had enough. It’s all in hopes to bring even more visibility to this issue than we already have. | 5 pm. Free. Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy. facebook. com
Pennypack Park Music Festival
From here on out, this festival is happening every Wednesday throughout the summer. Get groovy with the first performers of the season: Steal Your Face and the All Catholic High School Jazz Band. | 6:30 pm. Free. Ed Kelly Ampitheater, Pennypack Park, Pennypack Trail. facebook.com
THUR M AY 3 0
LGBTQ
It’s the season of kickoffs. This party is a sickening preview of all the fun and expression pride month will bring this season. Queer artists and drag kings and queens will be lighting up the dance floor. | 10 pm. $3. The Barbary, 951 Frankford Ave.
This is a kickoff for the annual block party type event that benefits local artists. It’s your chance to catch a preview of the artists that will be at the festival selling their work. Your money will support InLiquid, the art design organization hosting the event, and the Philly AIDS Fund. | 6 pm. $50. Location 215, 990 Spring Garden St.
facebook.com
eventbrite.com
Cünty: A Queer Party
OUTDOORS
Annual Dance on the Bridge
Connect with some beautiful nature through the art of Nia dance. This dance technique is kind of like yoga, but, of course, it’s dance. Hike out to a covered bridge and dance soulfully to the sounds that surround you. | 10 am. Free. Thomas Mill Covered Bridge, 8901 Forbidden Dr. facebook.com COMEDY
Philly Sketchfest 2019
It’s the first day of this year’s sketch comedy festival. It starts off with three back-toback shows - one of them is a showcase of multiple talents. Get ready to go around the city to catch the funniest motherfuckers in Philly. | 7 pm. $8-$10. Philly Improv Theater, 2030 Sansom St. facebook.com
MUSIC
Duff McKagan
McKagan used to slap the bass in Guns & Roses, but now he’s flying solo. Catch him on his U.S. tour now hot off the releases of a few singles. One of his singles, “Last September,” is inspired by the stories he’s heard from the #MeToo movement. | 8 pm. $35. Theatre of the Living Arts, 334 South St. facebook.com LGBTQ
Melangerie: An All QPOC Show This show comes around every now and then to showcase the brilliant artists of the QPOC community. Come out and show your solidarity and support their talents. There will be several local artists performing, including Areola Grande and Deej Nutz. | 9 pm. $10. Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar, 254 S. 12th St. eventbrite.com
Fill the Steps Against Gun Violence
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
ART
Art for the Cash Poor Kickoff Party
FESTIVAL
Delaware River Waterfront Promenade
Get a taste of the Philly food scene at this annual fundraiser. Spend all your money and feel good about it, because it’s all going to fund arts programs on the Delaware waterfront. That funding goes towards the events at Spruce Harbor Park, the movies in the dark at Penn’s Landing, and more. | 6 pm. $150. Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd. facebook.com
EVENT
Stroll the Street
This seasonal, rotating event is back to kick off the summer. This one’s Meet Your Neighbor Night. There will be food specials at certain restaurants and special sales at select stores. Keep up with this jawn to see what the next event will be. | 5 pm. Prices vary. Locations vary. manayunk.com
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
CALENDAR
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FOOD & DRINK
Philly Beer Week Kickoff
The beer vault is getting cracked open for this one. Barcade will be showcasing some of its rarest and most unique beers to kick off Philly Beer Week one day early. Get a leg up on all the drinking you’ll have to keep up with all week. | Thursday, 12 pm. Free. Barcade, 1114 Frankford Ave. facebook.com
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
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THE
BIG
PICTURE
Reflections of color In addition to looking like a gorgeous setting for an evening stroll, this frame-worthy picture from Philly based photographer Jeff Fusco of an evening in the Gayborhood is pretty damn picturesque – without even trying to be. Did you take a shot that you'd like to share with the rest of Philly? Send it to us, using the hashtag #PWBigPic or send it to mail@philadelphiaweekly.com.
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
Hard feelings
SAVAGE LOVE
Q: I keep running into the same issue with Being so attuned to other people’s emomy best friend of five years. (She’s also my tional states that you feel their pain—bemaid of honor at my upcoming wedding.) ing an empath—sounds exhausting. But Lori We’re both empaths—most of my friends Gottlieb, a psychotherapist in private practice, are—and we’re both in therapy working on isn’t convinced your empath superpowers are how to cope with that. I have severe anxiety the problem here. that impacts my physical health, so one of the “EMPATH’s moods seem overly dependent empath-related issues I’m working on is not on what the other person does,” said Gottlieb. following through with plans when I need to “That’s not being ‘an empath.’ Most people take time alone. My friend claims she under- are empathetic, which isn’t the same as what stands this but my actions severely impact her these two are doing. They’re drowning in mood. Example: We’ll make tentative plans to each other’s feelings. This is what pop culture get together, I’ll feel too sick to follow through, might call codependency, and what in therapy we’d call an attachment issue.” and then she’s in a negative emoFrom your letter, EMPATH, it tional spiral for days. The final sounds like you might be ready to straw came when she called me late detach from your friend—you menthis past Friday night—just once, with no subsequent voice mail, tioned a final straw and described text message, or follow-up call. On the relationship as not sustainMonday morning, I sent her a text able—and detaching would resolve message asking how her weekend this attachment issue. was and got an icy reply. Evident“This feels less like a friendship and more like a psychodrama where ly, something happened to her on they’re each playing out their reFriday, she called me for support, and my failure to return her call spective issues,” said Gottlieb. “A left her feeling very upset. I apolofriendship isn’t about solving angized for the accidental trigger and other person’s emotional issues or tried to lay down some protocols being the container for them. It isn’t for reaching out in an emergency about being devastated by another situation (leave me a voice mail and @FAKEDANSAVAGE person’s feelings or boundaries. It send a follow-up text) so I know it’s should be a mutually fulfilling relaurgent. She hasn’t replied. I’m realtionship, not being co-therapists to ly frustrated. She has a lot of baggage around each other. In a strong friendship, each person can handle her own emotions rather than rebeing shamed for being emotional, so I try to be careful not to invalidate her feelings, but I lying on the friend to regulate them for her.” don’t know if that’s even making a difference. Gottlieb started writing an advice column We’ve had several conflicts over the last year, because, unlike psychotherapists, advice colalways triggered by something I did or said, umnists are supposed to tell people what to almost always accidentally, that caused her do. I’m guessing your therapist mostly asks to “take a step back.” She insists she under- questions and gently nudges, EMPATH, but stands I’m doing my best to be a good friend since Gottlieb has her advice-columnist hat on while also working through my own emotion- today and not her psychotherapist hat, I asked her to tell you what to do. al shit. But that’s not the sense I’m getting. I’m “She should act more like a friend than feeling increasingly like it’s impossible to be a human being AND her friend. Until recently, a therapist/caretaker,” said Gottlieb. “She shouldn’t treat her friend or herself as if I had zero emotional boundaries and made they’re too fragile to handle basic communimyself available to her at a moment’s notice cation or boundaries. And they should both be to help shoulder her emotional burden. But now that I’m trying to be more conservative working out their issues with their respective therapists, not with each other.” with my abundance and take better care of And if you decide to keep this woman in myself, it seems like all I do is hurt her. What the fuck do I do? I’ve tried to be open-minded your life (and your wedding party), EMPATH, you’ll both have to work on—sigh—your comand patient with her dramatic mood swings, but she seems unable to give me the benefit munication skills. of the doubt, which I always try to give her. Lori Gottlieb’s new book, Maybe You This rocky ground between us is adding more Should Talk to Someone, is a New York Times stress to the whole wedding situation. (You’re bestseller. Follow her on Twitter @LoriGottlisupposed to be able to rely on your maid of eb1. honor, right?) This thing we have is not sustainable as it is, although I love her deeply. THERE’S ALWAYS MORE OF SAVAGE TO LOVE! Help me figure this out? – Emotions Making Personal Affection Too Read: PhillyWeekly.com Hard Have a question?: mail@savagelove.net
DAN SAVAGE
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Grant Garden Apartments Spring Special, 1 & 2 BR, 1 BA. $775 - $980 includes water. Laundry room on site. Off of Blvd. 215-464-6411
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AB BLOOD DONORS NEEDED Will be compensated up to $85.00 for a complete donation, starting on their 2nd visit!! In order to donate you need: Valid picture ID. SSI card Be between 18 & 70 yrs. old. Be in good health. Walk-ins are welcome. New donors will be paid $50.00 for a full donation. INTERSTATE BLOOD BANK 1250 N. BROAD STREET. PHILA PA. 19121 215-765-2554
GENERAL AND TREATMENT FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED Open your heart and home to children of all ages New Foundations, Inc. 215-203-8733 www.nfi4kids.org PAID RESEARCH SUBJECT SPACE MISSION SIMULATION 8 day study of resilience at U. of PA. Must be healthy, about 30-55 yr. old with STEM educ. MS or BS+ equiv. exp or military exp. Compensated time & travel. Call 215-573-5855
BLOOD DONORS All donors paid $40.00 No appointment necessary. Walk-ins welcome. Must be healthy and have proper I.D. Must provide Social Security card.Interstate Blood Bank 1250-52 N Broad St. Phila PA 19121 215-765-2554 Hrs. 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM NEW DONORS BRING THIS AD IN FOR A $10.00 BONUS
PAID RESEARCH SUBJECT SLEEP QUALITY STUDY DRIVER/WAREHOUSE - F/T 7-day study of cognitive Apply in person, Between performance at Univ. of 11am-3pm. 911 Christian St. Penn. Must be healthy, apNo experience necessary. prox. 30-55 yrs. old, pref. with STEM educ. or military exp. Compensated time & travel CALL 215-573-5855 DRIVERS AllThree's Luxury Sedan & Taxicab looking for profesDRIVERS/ LIMO - F/T sional drivers. High income. Must be 27yrs. old & lic'd. Set your own hrs. Please call Dave's Limousine, M-F. 10a-4p. 215-333-1111 5915 Harbison Ave.
MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
25XX S. Broad St. Newly renovated 2 br, 1 ba apt. 2nd fl. Brand new kit., h/w floors, and new appliances. Located minutes from subway, bus and major highways. Walking distance to stadiums, Passyunk Ave. and shopping. $1625 mo., tenant pays gas & elec. First, last & 1 mo. sec. dep. to move in. Email: nbtab@aol.com
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Sprint has modified wireless telecommunications antennas on an existing building located at 317 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102. The modification consisted of the collocation of antennas at a top height of 153 feet, 4 inches on the rooftop of the existing building. Any interested party wishing to submit comments regarding the potential effects the facility may have on any historic property may do so by sending such comments to: Project 6119001832 - MRH EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail South, York, PA 17403, or via telephone at (785) 760-5938.
General Employment
FLAGGERS ($12.50/hr) Traffic Plan seeks Flaggers to set up and direct traffic around construction sites. A valid PA driver license and clean driving record a must, good pay and benefits. If interested please fill out an application at 510 Hertzog Blvd, King of Prussia, PA on Monday’s 10am - 2pm or online at trafficplan.com.
Notice Of Public Sale: The following self-storage Cube contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by CubeSmart, 501 Callowhill Street Philadelphia PA 19123 (215) 627-3510 to satisfy a lien on June 4, 2019 at approx. 11AM at www.storagetreasures.com: Unit 1048 Maurice Hall/F S Jeans
RECENT BREAK UP? PW Classifieds is a great place to sell your ex’s stuff. Contact: classifieds@philadelphiaweekly.
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HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!
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776 S FRONT ST QUEEN VILLAGE MEWS $369,900
OPEN HOUSE ON BOTH SATURDAY 5/25/19 & SUNDAY 5/26/19 FROM 12:00 TO 1:00 WOW! A TERRIFIC DEAL. A TOTAL REHAB. 1800 SQUARE FEET (NOT INCLUDING THE FINISHED BASEMENT). THREE BEDROOMS + AN AU PAIR SUITE IN THE LOWER LEVEL WITH A FULL BATH. HEATED FLOORS. GAS HEAT. CENTRAL AIR. HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT. 3 FULL SPA BATHS. NICE SIZE OUTDOOR SPACE AND A GREAT ROOF DECK. PARKING DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET ($110 A MONTH) MEREDITH CATCHMENT
A TERRIFIC TRI LEVEL UNIT. 1300 SQUARE FEET. TWO BEDROOMS + OFFICE. ONE AND HALF BATHS. HARDWOOD FLOORS. WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE. EXPOSED BRICK + JULIET BALCONY AND MEREDITH CATCHMENT.
What They Are Saying: “I have purchased three homes from Kathy over the last 20 years. She knows the market; what is available, what’s been sold, she knows what the value should be. AND she is the nicest person in Society Hill. If there is a heaven she has a get in free card.” J Breslin
Patrick Conway
Kathy Conway
215-266-1537 215-850-3842 Society Hill Office • 215.627.6005 • Please visit us online at www.conwayteam.com
THE RIGHT PLACE. RIGHT IN THE HEART OF PACKER PARK. MAIN LINE SUBURBS
CENTER CITY PHILA.
SWEET BOX
WILLIAM PENN HOUSE 1919 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia Unit #1820 2 BED | 1 BATH | 1,134 SQ FT | $549,000 Unit #923/924 3 BED | 2 BATH | 1,581 SQ FT | $539,000 Unit #2920 2 BED | 1 BATH | 1,134 SQ FT | $415,000
717 CONSHOHOCKEN STATE ROAD, PENN VALLEY
1814 LUDLOW STREET, PHILADELPHIA
Unit #1310 1 BED | 1 BATH | 825 SQ FT | $320,000
6 BED, 6.1 BATH | 6,508 SQ FT | $1,950,000
INVESTMENT | 3,150 SQ FT | $1,395,000
Unit #2022 | 1 BED | 1 BATH | 867 SQ FT | $310,000
1655 Oakwood Drive, Unit#N103, Penn Valley Unit #510 1 BED | 1 BATH | 825 SQ FT | $310,000
MAIN LINE SUBURBS
34 Sandringham Rd, Bala Cynwyd
NEW LISTINGS
5 BED | 5.3 BATH | 5,217 SQ FT | $1,095,000
1 BED | 1 BATH | 858 SQ FT | $145,000
39 Aberdale Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
1310 Pine Road, Bryn Mawr
1030 E Lancaster Avenue, Unit #304, Bryn Mawr
7 BED | 3.2 BATH | 2,818 SQ FT | $785,000
1305 WOODBINE AVE, PENN VALLEY 5 BED | 2.2 BATH | 2,502 SQ FT | $449,000
7106 LLANFAIR ROAD, UPPER DARBY 5 BED | 2.2 BATH | 2,840 SQ FT | $229,900
1305 SUMMER HILL LANE, GLADWYNE LOT | 0.5 ACRES | $150,000
JUST REDUCED 1205 Chermar Ln, Penn Valley
5 BED | 3.1 BATH | 3,655 SQ FT | $995,000
106 Airdale Road, Bryn Mawr 8 BED | 4.1 BATH | 6,200 SQ FT | $995,000
517 Righters Mill Road, Penn Valley
1 BED | 1 BATH | 700 SQ FT | $128,000
2000 Valley Forge Cir, Unit#36, King of Prussia STORAGE UNIT | $12,000
4 BED | 2.1 BATH | 3,818 SQ FT | $989,000
CENTER CITY
1417 Centennial Rd, Penn Valley
NEW LISTINGS
5 BED | 3.1 BATH | 4,371 SQ FT | $899,000
3419 Sunnyside Ave, Philadelphia
239 Trianon Ln, Villanova 4 BED | 3.1 BATH | 3,443 SQ FT | $839,000
3 BED | 1.1 BATH | 1,380 SQ FT | $279,900
5 BED | 4.1 BATH | 3,356 SQ FT | $799,000
200 PRICE AVE, UNIT#4, NARBETH
207 Lindy Ln, Bala Cynwyd
JUST REDUCED
3 BED | 3.1 BATH | 3,038 SQ FT | $799,000
710 Lombard Street, Philadelphia
1315 Bobarn Drive, Penn Valley
2 BED | 2.1 BATH | 1890 SQ FT | $919,990
3 BED | 4.1 BATH | 4,217 SQ FT | $599,900
LISTINGS 1211 Mirabeau Ln, Gladwyne 6 BED | 8.3 BATH | 15,317 SQ FT | $3,950,000
1320 Monk Rd, Gladwyne
4 BED | 3.1 BATH | 3,422 SQ FT | $775,000
CONDO LIVING 190 Presidential Blvd, #415, Bala Cynwyd
6 BED | 8.2 BATH | 9,923 SQ FT | $3,850,000
2 BED | 2.1 BATH | 1,970 SQ FT | $639,000
LISTINGS 5860 Woodbine Ave, Philadelphia 6 BED | 4.1 BATH | 3,725 SQ FT | $689,000
1309 Summer Hill Lane, Gladwyne
191 Presidential Blvd, #824-25, Bala Cynwyd 2 BED | 2 BATH | 2,100 SQ FT | $325,000
1124 Youngsford Rd, Gladwyne
200 W. Elm Street, #1420, Conshohocken
3 BED | 1 BATH | 1,288 SQ FT | $349,000
5 BED | 4.3 BATH | 6,144 SQ FT | $1,449,000
2 BED | 2 BATH | 1,318 SQ FT | $325,000
2401 Pennsylvania Ave, #17B28, Philadelphia
700 Ardmore Ave, #112, Ardmore
809 Latona Street, Philadelphia
1 BED | 1 BATH | 1,258 SQ FT | $299,000
5 BED | 4.1 BATH | 4,716 SQ FT | $1,375,000
2 BED| 2.1 BATH | 1,152 SQ FT | $239,000
1351 Bobarn Drive, Penn Valley
1750 Oakwood Ter, Unit#1A, Penn Valley
410 Shurs Ln, #A308, Philadelphia
2 BED | 2 BATH | 1,299 SQ FT | $227,000
1 BED | 1.1 BATH | 1,260 SQ FT | $279,000
5 BED | 4.1 BATH | 6,647 SQ FT | $1,149,000
THE KENNEDY HOUSE
NEW PHASE NOW OPEN!
Unit #2521/2 3 BED | 3 BATH | 1,906 SQ FT | $950,000
THE MOST SPACIOUS MOST LUXURIOUS NEW TOWNHOMES WITH GARAGES STARTING AT $475,900
Unit 2006 2 BED | 2 BATH | 1,171 SQ FT | $485,000
ASK ABOUT QUICK DELIVERY HOMES!
Unit #1213 1 BED | 1 BATH | 872 SQ FT | $289,000
215.339.5390
1901 JFK Blvd, Philadelphia
Unit#1819 1 BED | 1 BATH | 606 SQ FT | $249,000 Unit#1919 1 BED | 1 BATH | 606 SQ FT | $219,000 Unit #1512 STUDIO | 1 BATH | 475 SQ FT | $200,000 Unit#2911 STUDIO | 1 BATH | 522 SQ FT | $184,900 Unit#2816 STUDIO | 1 BATH | 517 SQ FT | $175,000
4 BED | 4.3 BATH | 6,465 SQ FT | $2,990,000
533 N. Spring Mill Road, Villanova
UNIT# 1421 1 BED | 1 BATH | 837 SQ FT | $310,000
Unit#710 STUDIO | 1 BATH | 475 SQ FT | $150,000
KINGSLEY COURT Philadelphia 500 Kingsley Court 3 BED | 2 BATH | 2,000 SQ FT | $487,000 502 Kingsley Court 3 BED | 3.1 BATH | 2,000 SQ FT | $485,000
SIENAPLACE.COM SALES@SIENAPLACE.COM
MODEL HOMES OPEN Mon, Thurs thru Sat 11-5 | Sun 12-5
REACH OUT TO US. Carry PW’s at your spot. drops@philadelphiaweekly.com.
10-YEAR TAX ABATEMENT AND VA AND FHA APPROVED!
2300 Hartranft Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145 Between Penrose Ave. and 26th St.
503 Kingsley Court 4 BED | 3.1 BATH | 2,400 SQ FT | $483,500 504 Kingsley Court 4 BED | 3.1 BATH | 2,000 SQ FT | $480,000 506 Kingsley Court 4 BED | 3.1 BATH | 2,000 SQ FT | $480,000
BROKER COOPERATION IS WARMLY INVITED AND APPRECIATED.
All prices and features subject to change without notice. Please see sales consultant for details.
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY | MAY 23 - 30, 2019
38
REAL ESTATE
PHILADELPHIAWEEKLY.COM @PHILLYWEEKLY
New Listing - Pennsport Welcome to this total open row home. The open floor plan is clean & green. Walk in to see all the way to the open eat-in kitchen with a beautiful granite counter tops. Through the sliding glass doors you can walk out to your own private, full lot sized yard. 2 Bedrooms | 1.5 Baths
$395,000
New Listing - Fairmount This fabulous 2-story brick condo has a spacious living room featuring high ceilings, recessed lighting, a ceiling fan, hardwood floors and stunning exposed brick. The newer kitchen boasts ceramic tile flooring, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The Chatham Row Condominium Complex offers common area amenities including a beautifully landscaped patio area. 2 BR | 1 BA
$269,000 New Price - Fishtown Welcome yourself home and find an open concept floor plan including a comfortable and expansive living area, formal dining area, chef’s kitchen with induction stove and radiant heat floor, and then laundry and powder room before the giant outdoor living area. There are 5 years left on the tax abatement. 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths
$330,000
A bright and sunny enclosed front porch welcomes you to this large home on a lovely tree-lined Street. Enter the spacious and open first floor with large living room, dining room, powder room, and kitchen. Beautiful hard wood floors, high ceilings and original railings will captivate your imagination. 4 Bedrooms | 1.5 Bathrooms
$360,000
New Price - Queen Village
Old Kensington
Enjoy every modern convenience in the heart of Queen Village. This 4 BR plus den, 3.2 baths home features a spacious living room with a gas fireplace and beautiful details including ornate woodwork, with hardwood floors throughout. This home offers several private outdoor spaces, including the spacious landscaped garden and three decks. And there’s a 2-car garage!
Brand new construction! This luxury triplex features hardwood floors throughout, Samsung stainless steel appliances, beautiful custom kitchens, Nest thermostats, Carrier HVAC system and speaker systems in the living areas and master bedrooms. Beautiful large bay windows on each floor give off plenty of natural light. This property features 2 outdoor spaces: a nice back yard and a rooftop deck.
$1,150,000
PW REAL ESTATE To advertise in this section contact Dan Tangi 215-543-3743 ext. 111 or dtangi@philadelphiaweekly.com MAY 23 - 30, 2019 | PHILADELPHIA WEEKLY
New Listing - 443 S. 49th Street Open Thursday 4-6 & Open Saturday 12-2
$809,000 or starting at $239,000/Unit
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