Big first half sparks MSU women past Raptors in season finale

CAMDEN CITY, N.J. (Feb. 19, 2020) – Freshman guard Nickie Carter scored 22 of her 32 points in the opening half as the Montclair State University women’s basketball team opened up a 20-point halftime lead and the Red Hawks went on to defeat Rutgers

University-Camden, 74-59, in the final regular-season game for both New Jersey Athletic Conference teams here Wednesday night.

Montclair State earned a first-round bye in the NJAC playoffs, which start Saturday, and will take a 20-5 overall record into the conference semifinals next week. The Red Hawks finished their regular season with a 15-3 NJAC record, earning the second seed in the six-team NJAC playoffs.

Rutgers-Camden closed its season at 12-13 overall and 5-13 in the NJAC.

MSU, which heads into the post-season having won 15 of its last 16 games, is 46-17 in its all-time series against the Scarlet Raptors. The Red Hawks have won 26 of their last 28 games against Rutgers-Camden.

Carter was on fire in the first half, shooting 8-for-11 from the floor, including 4-for-5 from three-point range, as her 22 points helped Montclair State take a 49-29 lead at the break. Junior guard Taylor Brown added 11 first-half points for MSU. Freshman guard/forward

Jalissa Pitts

notched 11 points in the first half for Rutgers-Camden, while senior guard

Fatimah Williams

added 10.

Rutgers-Camden opened up an early 13-7 lead, sparked by six points from Williams and five from junior guard

Shane Holmes,

but Montclair State answered with 15 straight points to take the lead for good. That run included 11 points from Brown, including three consecutive three-pointers, the first of which gave the Red Hawks the lead at 14-13. It was their first lead since opening the game with the first five points, and it was the last lead change of the night.

Montclair State led by as many as 26 points (55-29) in the second half.

Carter finished with 12-for-20 shooting from the floor, including 6-for-9 from three-point range, on her way to 32 points. Junior forward Kayla Bush added 15 points and nine rebounds for MSU, while Brown finished with 11 points. Senior guard Cerys MacLelland had game highs of 11 rebounds and four assists, while Bush notched a game-high four steals.

Williams caught fire in the second half to finish with 34 points as she finished her stellar career with 1,240 points, tying Ta-Wanda Preston (1989-92) for sixth place on the program’s career scoring list. She finished the season with 508 points, becoming only the 10th player in program history to score over 500 points in one season. Her 20.3 scoring average for the season was the 10th-highest single-season mark in program history.

Williams also had team-high totals of nine rebounds, two assists, two blocks and three steals.

Pitts finished with 11 points for the Scarlet Raptors, capping her stellar rookie season with an even 11.0 scoring average, second on the team to Williams. Pitts also led the Scarlet Raptors in rebounding during the season with an average of 7.5 per game.

How can you fax from a wireless printer without a phone line?

Gloucestercitynews.net (February 20, 2020)–

Do you know you can use your wireless printer to send and receive faxes? Online fax services allow you to manage your fax communications with different types of printers. Nowadays, special printers are available with faxing capabilities.

These printers come with fax hardware and a fax button to send faxes. For this reason, it can be easy for you to fax the essential documents. If your printer doesn’t have faxing capabilities, you can use an online fax service.

CocoFax for Wireless Faxing

CocoFax allows you to manage

wireless faxing without a telephone line

and a fax machine. You can use your wireless printer without a phone line. If you have a printer with faxing capabilities, things can be easy for you.

In this situation, you will need a telephone line (a landline) to plug into your printer. These printers come with a socket for a phone line. To receive faxes on the same printer, you have to turn it on 24/7. You can miss your faxes with a turned-off printer.

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Power of Wireless Faxing

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Scan hard copies of your documents with your printer because you will need soft copies to send via fax. The dashboard of CocoFax enables you to send faxes with the help of wireless technology.

PENN VET NEWS: Taking on wildlife disease

John Armstrong, a chronic wasting disease research specialist at Penn Vet, processes samples in the newly established laboratory to test deer samples for the deadly infection at the School’s New Bolton Center campus. Getting this lab accredited and operational was one of the first actions of the new Pennsylvania Wildlife Futures Program, a partnership with the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

When wildlife biologist Matthew Schnupp began his career, the emphasis was on conserving habitat.

“The paradigm of wildlife management for the last 20 years has been habitat management,” he says, aiming to conserve the land and ecosystems animals require to thrive.

And while protecting habitat in the face of an expanding human population remains a critical priority, he sees a new paradigm emerging as infections like chronic wasting disease, white-nose syndrome, and West Nile virus take a toll on animals and the people who value them.

“I would venture to say that, in the next 20 to 30 years, the new model for management will be ensuring the resiliency of wildlife populations through wildlife health issues,” says Schnupp, director of the

Pennsylvania Game Commission

’s (PGC) Wildlife Management Bureau.

That’s where Penn’s animal health expertise comes in.

In a new partnership, the

School of Veterinary Medicine

and the PGC have united to support a common cause: protecting the health of wildlife populations across the state. The

Pennsylvania Wildlife Futures Program

, established last year with $10 million in seed funding over five years from the PGC, charts a way forward for wildlife professionals who aim to safeguard animals from health threats—a goal that has knock-on benefits for humans and domestic animals as well. Co-led by Penn Vet’s

Julie Ellis

, an ecologist, and

Lisa Murphy

, a veterinarian and toxicologist, together with Schnupp, the program enables the School to hire new staff dedicated to wildlife health who will work with PGC employees to monitor disease threats, develop research projects, enhance communication and public engagement around wildlife health issues, and respond to challenges as they arise.

“Wildlife health is just so complex,” says Ellis, who directs the

Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative

, a network of institutions that provides diagnostics services and other expertise to fish and wildlife agencies in 10 states. “It involves, by necessity, multiple disciplines. You need modelers, you need epidemiologists, you need virologists, and on and on. State wildlife agencies generally don’t have those types of people on their staff. Through this program, we’re working with the Game Commission to identify its needs and help it get ahead of some of the problems wildlife diseases can bring.”

Murphy, who serves as director of the

New Bolton Center

lab that is part of the three-part

Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System

(PADLS), says the program is enabling the School to create new areas of strength while leveraging what’s already in place at PADLS, Penn Vet, and the larger Penn community.

“It’s really been wonderful to be able to say that we have the basic resources, personnel, and capacity to establish this program,” she says, “but also to identify what we need to do the work even better. We’re building on established expertise here while bringing in new expertise with the support from PGC. That’s what is going to make this effort really special.”

Banding together

The foundation of the new program lies in the complementary backgrounds of its three leaders: Ellis, Murphy, and Schnupp.

Ellis joined Penn Vet in the fall of 2018. In her previous role at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, she established and ran the Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative (NWDC), which she continues to direct from Penn. Upon arriving in Philadelphia, she aimed “to bring wildlife health and disease opportunities, especially research opportunities, to the students and faculty.”

Complementary expertise—and a shared enthusiasm—characterize the program’s leaders: Penn Vet’s Lisa Murphy and Julie Ellis and the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Matthew Schnupp. (Image: Hal Korber/Pennsylvania Game Commission)

Murphy, a Penn Vet alum who has served on the faculty since 2005, had worked with Ellis for years as part of the NWDC. With a long-standing interest in wildlife issues and expertise in toxicology, she also has worked closely with the PGC and other state agencies through the PADLS New Bolton Center’s diagnostics work.

Schnupp, like Ellis, is relatively new to Pennsylvania. He took the bureau director position in January 2018 after a lengthy tenure managing wildlife on a private ranch in Texas, where issues like chronic wasting disease took up the majority of his time. Upon getting to know the Game Commission’s operations and priorities, he quickly discovered that the agency’s lone wildlife veterinarian, even while acting in concert with wildlife biologists, lacked the bandwidth to effectively confront a mounting tally of health and disease issues. As Schnupp started to envision a broader program to address these needs, he and Ellis got in touch, looped in Murphy and and began developing a plan to work together.

Formidable foe

The first target of Wildlife Futures was a no-brainer; it has emerged as the priority demanding the lion’s share of Schnupp’s time and attention, not to mention the agency’s money. That’s chronic wasting disease (CWD). Spread by misfolded proteins called prions, CWD causes a contagious and fatal illness in deer. Though CWD has been a problem in states in the West and Midwest for a few decades, it’s a relatively new problem in Pennsylvania, where the first CWD-positive deer was found in 2012.

“CWD is such a hot topic in Pennsylvania,” says Ellis. “The disease’s spread has been difficult to control. It’s also a challenging disease politically because one of the preferred management techniques to control it is culling, and that’s a very unpopular thing to do in a state that sells the second most hunting licenses in America.”

First identified in Pennsylvania white-tailed deer just 8 years ago, chronic wasting disease has become a pressing concern for the Game Commission across the state. Offering diagnostics support as well as other science-backed guidance, Penn Vet aims to help the state get a handle on the spreading disease.

There’s also a lot of “confusion and misinformation and fear” surrounding the disease, notes Murphy. While no human cases have been documented, some scientists believe that such a leap from wildlife to human is possible. As a result, many hunters submit samples of the deer they kill for CWD testing before they consume the meat. The demand for testing had overwhelmed the PGC, and test results were taking weeks or even months to come back.

“It was clear from talking with hunters that expediting the time it took to provide them CWD test results was tremendously important,” Schnupp says. “That heightened its priority status for us. We addressed the delay head-on, finding more timely ways to test and notify successful deer hunters who submitted samples.”

To Schnupp, CWD was the low-hanging fruit for the fledgling Futures program. And Penn Vet wasted no time in responding. In less than six months, in an effort led by Michelle Lucey Gibison, a new, USDA-accredited lab space for CWD testing was established at New Bolton Center, opening in December. The increased testing capacity aims to offer the PGC and hunters results back in 7 to 10 days, with the ability to track test results online.

In addition, through Wildlife Futures, PGC, Penn Vet scientists, and others are working collaboratively to devise a science-backed response plan for CWD management that takes into account what is happening in other state agencies both within and outside Pennsylvania.

“Wildlife health issues don’t respect state boundaries,” Schnupp says. “Wildlife Futures is an opportunity to collaborate on research and surveillance. That’s important because we’re not an island.”

Poised to respond

While CWD spurred the program’s earliest actions, it’s far from the only challenge in its sights. White-nose syndrome, for one, has decimated the state’s bat populations since it was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2008. PGC bat biologist Greg Turner is renowned for his years of research into the fungal disease, and his attempts at control and intervention. The partnership with Penn may lend even more support to those efforts.

And for the state bird, the ground-nesting ruffed grouse, Schnupp is hopeful that Penn Vet can expand on the research of biologist Lisa Williams, whose studies have identified West Nile virus as a major threat to the popular game species.

“Typically biologists are trained to think, well, wild animals die and it’s a part of the natural cycle,” says Ellis. “But with things like white-nose syndrome, West Nile virus, and even chytrid fungus in amphibians, we’re realizing that these diseases are really serious, and have the ability to wipe out local populations and in some cases entire species.”

As the Wildlife Futures Program evolves, it will address additional wildlife disease challenges. As one example, state wildlife biologist Lisa Williams has underscored the threat that West Nile virus poses to the Pennsylvania state bird, the ruffed grouse.

(Image: Hal Korber/Pennsylvania Game Commission)

Other current disease threats, from mange in black bears, to lead poisoning in bald eagles, to rabies in raccoons, and beyond, may receive research attention and diagnostic support through the program in years to come.

The leadership team is planning for the challenges that belong to the future as well. First by hiring: In total a dozen employees across PGC and Penn will be dedicated to the Wildlife Futures Program. For its part, Penn Vet is in the process of bringing on a wildlife pathologist and a wildlife disease ecologist, who will be based at New Bolton Center, and a wildlife communications liaison, who will work at the PGC headquarters office in Harrisburg and act as “eyes and ears on the ground” to ensure Penn Vet’s work is supporting the needs of the agency, says Ellis, and communicating the outcomes of that work to different stakeholder groups, including the public.

“This is more than just providing a service or completing a project,” adds Murphy. “It’s a program that will be lasting. We’re assembling a team that will be excited to be on the front lines of what’s next—what are the emerging disease concerns for Pennsylvania and the region— and to put us in the best possible position to tackle them.”

In addition to recruiting new personnel, the Wildlife Futures Program will build a wildlife tissue bank to store blood, feather, fur, and other samples from wildlife of all kinds to ensure they are properly archived for later research and analysis.

“Let’s say we identify a disease that we haven’t seen previously,” says Murphy. “We could go to that tissue archive and see, was it present in samples we collected five, 10, 20 years ago?”

As the program progresses and builds, Ellis and Murphy hope to offer opportunities for student engagement. That might begin with a graduate or undergraduate student from Penn analyzing samples that the PGC has on hand from, say, ruffed grouse serum and feathers, but could morph as new Penn Vet faculty build their research programs in wildlife disease.

The program is adding staff and faculty with wildlife disease training, while leveraging expertise already in place at Penn Vet, including

at the PADLS New Bolton Center laboratory.

For now, Schnupp, Murphy, and Ellis aren’t putting a limit on their ambitions for the program. “I think we’re going to be setting the national stage for wildlife health issues,” Schnupp says. “I firmly believe that.”

Their hope is that all residents of the Commonwealth will reap the benefits.

“There are some real opportunities here in terms of preserving wildlife and the environment they live in as a resource that all people can appreciate and enjoy,” says Murphy. “Whether you hunt, enjoy having wildlife in your backyard, or just appreciate knowing that there are wild areas out there, this program is supporting the health of those animals and those wild places. It really is all tied together.”

Julie Ellis is an adjunct associate professor in pathobiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

Lisa Murphy is an associate professor of toxicology and director of the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System-New Bolton Center at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

Matthew Schnupp is director of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Bureau of Wildlife Management.

Moody\’s Investor Service Upgrades DRPA Bonds

DRPA’s solid metrics in recent fiscal years and management’s tight control over costs boost credit rating

“DRPA has focused over the last few years on improving governance and management practices,

focusing on core operations and successfully eliminating outstanding variable debt and swaps from its debt profile at the end of 2018. Some of the more recent management initiatives include the upgrade of SAP Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System to SAP HANA, the development of an asset management system and improved focus on maintenance, and the creation of a new department focused on strategic initiatives.”

-Moody\’s Investor Service

On February 4, Moody’s Investor Service (Moody’s) upgraded all of the DRPA revenue and port district project (PDP) bonds from A2 to A1. The Authority is extremely proud and excited about this recognition, as this is another important external validation of all the hard work performed by our

Board

, our staff, and our

Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC)

who have worked with the community and other stakeholders over the past decade to improve our finances. We’ve contained costs, restructured our debt and eliminated our swap exposure, invested in maintenance and capital projects, and more recently, in technology to support our strategic vision and mission. As a result, the Authority is at its strongest level in over 20 years.

Our financial fundamentals and results are very strong – and they have been for several years. What’s different this time is Moody’s view of DRPA/PATCO management, including the Board and staff. Under the heading Management and Governance, the Moody’s credit report states:

In addition, Moody’s cited the following strengths supporting the rationale for the upgrade, including:

Very strong liquidity; good cost control;

Solid historical financial metrics;

A manageable

5-year capital program ($810 million)

;

No plan for toll increases or any new bond debt in the immediate future; and

Positive changes in our debt structure, especially the elimination of variable rate debt and the interest rate swaps (December 2018).

While Moody’s did cite some specific “credit challenges,” we are confident our strategic focus will help us to maintain these new ratings. We believe that including the “Days Cash Outstanding” metric in the financial summary reported monthly to the Board (as suggested by the Board) will be important in our approach to monitoring and responding to the credit challenges.

The collaboration among our Board, staff and the CAC has been instrumental in our achieving this important milestone in our journey toward financial and operational excellence.

Moody\’s Investor Service Upgrades DRPA Bonds

DRPA’s solid metrics in recent fiscal years and management’s tight control over costs boost credit rating

“DRPA has focused over the last few years on improving governance and management practices,

-Moody\’s Investor Service

Board

, our staff, and our

Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC)

In addition, Moody’s cited the following strengths supporting the rationale for the upgrade, including:

Very strong liquidity; good cost control;

Solid historical financial metrics;

A manageable

5-year capital program ($810 million)

;

No plan for toll increases or any new bond debt in the immediate future; and

Positive changes in our debt structure, especially the elimination of variable rate debt and the interest rate swaps (December 2018).

The collaboration among our Board, staff and the CAC has been instrumental in our achieving this important milestone in our journey toward financial and operational excellence.

Diocese of Camden Food Drive March 22

Event details

March 22, 2020

All Day

Here in South Jersey, 1 in 6 people, and 1 in 5 children, suffer from food insecurity, which means they might not know where their next meal is coming from. In response, the Diocese of Camden organizes the annual FaithFULL Food Drive.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series® and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (February 18, 2020)

– The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series

, a part of The IRONMAN Group, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City announced a new title partnership for the inaugural Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ’n’ Roll

Atlantic City Half Marathon taking place on May 15 and 16, 2020.

The new event marks the debut of the all-new Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series event in the U.S. since 2015 and will consist of a twilight 5K and half marathon.

“We\’re really excited about partnering with a brand who pairs well with the ethos of our brand and is so representative of why Atlantic City is such an iconic tourist destination,” said Chris Marciani, Vice President of Global Partnerships, North America for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series. “Hard Rock Atlantic City just like Rock \’n\’ Roll Marathon is dedicated to delivering an unparalleled experience and infusing music and fun into everything we do.”

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ’n’ Roll Atlantic City Half Marathon will start during the twilight evening hours, treating thousands of participants to a one-of-a-kind race experience that highlights the unique beach and boardwalk atmosphere.

Race week will kick-off on Thursday, May 14 when the Health and Fitness Expo opens to the public, featuring the latest products and trends in the running industry. Runners and walkers of all levels from around the world will then take in the sights and sounds of Atlantic City on Friday, May 15 for the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ‘n’ Roll Atlantic City 5K presented by Brooks and the half marathon on Saturday evening, May 16.

After starting out at Bader Field, race participants will experience the beautiful shore towns of Ventnor and Margate before they eventually make their way to the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk for the final six miles. Playing to the rich musical history of New Jersey, the musically themed event will amp up the on-course bands and DJs for competitors to enjoy as they race their way to Hard Rock Atlantic City’s finish line after-party festival.

“We could not be more proud to partner with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series to bring this highly-anticipated race into our community,” said Joe Lupo, President of Hard Rock Atlantic City, “Providing experiences that rock is in Hard Rock’s DNA and we look forward to bringing runners from Bader Field to the Boardwalk where we will celebrate them at the Hard Rock Atlantic City finish line.”

To celebrate the partnership, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series and Hard Rock Atlantic City will hold a Preview Party on Thursday, March 12, in which runners will have the unique opportunity to run a preview of the inaugural Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ’n’ Roll Atlantic City Half Marathon with a two-mile run finishing at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. The Preview Party will have raffles, giveaways, refreshments, onsite registration available and discounts, and the race director will be on hand to talk about the course. See the event Facebook page for more details,

www.facebook.com/RnRAtlanticCity/

Registration for the 2020 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ’n’ Roll Atlantic City Half Marathon and 5K presented by Brooks is currently open with further details available at

www.runrocknroll.com/AtlanticCity

Located on New Jersey’s Atlantic Coast, Atlantic City is a prime destination and accessible by many, with the world-renowned Atlantic City Boardwalk situated right on the coastline. This New Jersey staple features shops, bars, and casinos, offering a lively experience with a world-class view. Other adventurous activities include surfing and kayaking, giving both spectators and participants the chance to embrace the unforgettable atmosphere of the Atlantic City shoreline.

For more information on inaugural Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rock ’n’ Roll Atlantic City Half Marathon, visit

www.runrocknroll.com/AtlanticCity

. For more information or to register for an event, please visit

runrocknroll.com

. Media related inquiries may be directed to

press@runrocknroll.com

Delaware Offering Enhanced Online Electronic Recreational Fishing License Sales

DOVER (Feb. ,2020) – Anglers who have purchased recreational fishing licenses and freshwater trout stamps, or exempt anglers who obtained free Fisherman Information Network (FIN) numbers directly from DNREC’s website in the past will now benefit from an updated, more user-friendly version of the electronic fishing license sales system, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife announced today. The enhanced fishing license sales system can be accessed online at

Recreational Fishing Licenses

The recreational fishing license sales system is part of DNREC’s new ePermitting system, which involves customers establishing a user profile usable for a variety of DNREC licensing and permitting opportunities. Online fishing license sales system enhancements include a more modern look and feel using an improved customer interface and a familiar shopping cart approach, along with full compatibility for a variety of mobile devices to include smartphones and tablets in addition to personal computers, including Apple products.

Recreational fishing licenses can also be purchased at the licensing office in DNREC’s Richardson & Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, and at license agents statewide, where the previous license sales system will be used until the transition to the new electronic fishing license sales system is completed during the upcoming months.

For additional information and questions regarding Delaware fishing licenses, call 302-739-9918 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

TRAVEL TO PHILLY: Rittenhouse Square Neighborhood Guide

Shops, Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, Lounges, Galleries, Parks & More In Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse

Long considered one of the toniest neighborhoods in the city, Rittenhouse Square is known for its quiet, residential streets, bustling dining and shopping scenes and busy business life. The neighborhood buzzes with activity year-round.

The neighborhood gets its name from the one-square-block park between 18th and Rittenhouse and Walnut and Locust streets. The historic green space is bordered by apartment buildings, home to festivals, farmers’ markets and fairs, and popular among sunbathers, readers, families, artists, picnickers and dogs. This part of the city is also home to major corridors of upscale national chain boutiques and stores, notably, along Walnut and Chestnut streets between Broad and 20th streets.

Rittenhouse is bound by Broad Street — also known as the

Avenue of the Arts

— to the east, the Schuylkill River to the west, Market Street and

Logan Square

to the north, and Lombard Street and the

Graduate Hospital neighborhood

to the south. It’s easily accessible for out-of-towners: Two train stations, Suburban Station and Amtrak’s 30th Street Station, are a short walk or ride away.

Upscale Dining

a.kitchen –

This understated, modern restaurant inside AKA Rittenhouse Square opens daily for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. An unfussy yet spectacular seasonal menu pairs with a selection of 300 natural wines, cocktails and craft beers — the stock and trade of the attached

a.bar,

which also specializes in oysters, charcuterie and snacks. Kitchen, 135 S. 18th Street, (215) 825-7030; bar, 1737 Walnut Street, (215) 825-7035,

akitchenandbar.com

Abe Fisher

–

Taking inspiration from Old-World Jewish cooking, chef Yehuda Sichel puts a contemporary twist on classics, whipping up pastrami with Montreal-smoked short ribs, veal schnitzel tacos and chicken liver mousse. Diners can watch the magic happen in the open kitchen at this intimate, dinner-only spot. 1623 Sansom Street, (215) 867-0088,

abefisherphilly.com

Alma de Cuba

–

Guests enjoy savory dishes with a Latin flair before topping off the meal with a chocolate Cuban cigar. Attentive service and knockout décor make this a highlight on Stephen Starr’s lengthy Philly resume. 1623 Walnut Street, (215) 988-1799,

almadecubarestaurant.com

Barclay Prime –

Comfy velvet banquettes, crystal chandeliers and a well-dressed crowd create an upscale atmosphere at this handsome steak stalwart. Barclay lives up to the buzz, with the finest meat and delicious handcrafted cocktails. 237 S. 18th Street, (215) 732-7560,

barclayprime.com

Butcher and Singer –

Old Hollywood (and an old bank) sets the stage at Stephen Starr’s Rittenhouse steakhouse. Diners order steaks and chops with sides a la carte, and repeat guests know to save room for after-dinner favorites such as New York-style cheesecake, Key lime pie and baked Alaska. 1500 Walnut Street, (215) 732-4444,

butcherandsinger.com

Condesa –

On the ground floor of the Pod Philly hotel, the culinary creatives from Suraya, the equally chic Lebanese destination in Fishtown, take on Mexican cuisine over lunch and dinner. The menu includes haute tacos made with heirloom masa — lamb

adobado

(spiced lamb neck),

pescado frito

(tempura hake),

suadero chilango

(brisket and tongue) — raw surf clam, goat

birria

and corn husk-roasted striped bass. 1830 Ludlow Street, (267) 930-5600,

condesaphilly.com

Friday Saturday Sunday –

A beloved, bi-level, dinner-only neighborhood spot serves new American dishes and craft cocktails that look almost too good to enjoy — almost. An adaptable menu pleases those seeking either proper three-course meals or merely drinks and small plates. 261 S. 21st Street, (215) 546-4232,

fridaysaturdaysunday.com

Giuseppe & Sons –

Inspired by generations of cooking and culture, husband-and-wife team Michael Schulson and Nina Tinari bring a fresh twist to Italian-American classics. The ground floor houses a casual luncheonette with table and counter seating; the basement level is a sprawling and elegant lounge, filled with cozy nooks, plush booths and sunken corners. 1523 Sansom Street, (215) 399-9199,

giuseppesons.com

Harp & Crown –

Restaurateur Michael Schulson’s handsome venture next-door feels convivial and timeless. Featured here: charcuterie, small plates and seasonal fare — and a two-lane bowling alley tucked in the basement called Elbow Lane (reservations required for groups of nine or more; based on availability, smaller parties can walk in). 1525 Sansom Street, (215) 330-2800,

harpcrown.com

Lacroix at The Rittenhouse –

Along with an extensive wine list and elegant décor, the progressive, international menu makes this dining room a gem. Guests seated by the windows enjoy views of Rittenhouse Square. 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, 2nd floor, (215) 790-2533,

lacroixrestaurant.com

The Love

– Restaurateurs Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr teamed up for this bright and sophisticated restaurant and bar. The American menu features fresh, seasonal food, as well as the most important ingredient: love. 130 S. 18th Street, (215) 433-1555,

theloverestaurant.com

Oyster House

– Owner Sam Mink continues his father’s mission of serving fresh seafood at reasonable prices. He presents classic dishes with modern flavors and uses local ingredients whenever possible. The happy hour menu of buck-a-shuck oysters, $3 beer and a $5 cocktail always draws a crowd. 1516 Sansom Street, (215) 567-7683,

oysterhousephilly.com

Parc

–

Diners may feel as though they’ve gone transatlantic while sitting at this Parisian-inspired bistro. From tables across from Rittenhouse Square, patrons view the park foot traffic while noshing on the house-made breads, onion soup, shrimp salad, classic omelets and mussels in white wine. 227 S. 18th Street, (215) 545-2262,

parc-restaurant.com

R2L –

Views that span 40 miles create a grand atmosphere to Daniel Stern’s bar and restaurant, an ultra-modern dining room serving American cuisine 500 feet above Center City. (The website lists nightly sunset times, for prime timing.) Two Liberty Place, 50 S. 16th Street, 37th floor, (215) 564-5337,

r2lrestaurant.com

Rouge –

Tucked among tough dining competition, this see-and-be-seen mainstay serves classic cocktails, simple dishes and sidewalk seating that’s perfect for day-to-night people peeping. 205 S. 18th Street, (215) 732-6622,

rouge98.com

Spice Finch

–

Chefs Jennifer Carroll and Billy Riddle serve an inventive mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in the form of build-your-own meals. Diners can choose from small plates like broccoli tabbouleh, spinach and cheese

kichi

(a savory Greek pie), chili chicken kebab, or larger sharing portions. The shakshuka, with spiced tomatoes, peppers, nigella and three baked eggs, is a crowd-pleaser. 220 S. 17th Street, (215) 309-2238,

spicefinchphilly.com

Tequila’s

Restaurant

–

Since 1986, restaurateur David Suro has put a high-end twist on traditional Mexican cuisine within the confines of a stately mansion. A massive tequila-forward cocktail menu featuring creative drinks like the Roses Margarita, made with petal-infused tequila, lime, St. Germain and rose petals. 1602 Locust Street, (215) 546-0181,

tequilasphilly.com

Tinto –

Chef Jose Garces’ intimate Spanish wine bar and restaurant is known for its pintxos, the variety of tapas found in Spain’s Basque region. 114 S. 20th Street, (215) 665-9150,

philadelphia.tintorestaurant.com

Townsend –

Chef-owner Tod Wentz relocated his refined, French, evening-only gastropub from South Philly to Rittenhouse, and a menu that stars foie gras mousse, escargot bordelaise and red wine-braised veal. 2121 Walnut Street, (267) 639-3203,

townsendphl.com

Vernick Food & Drink –

In a spare, elegant yet casual, space, James Beard Award-winning chef Greg Vernick creates pristine raw seafood and revelatory small and large dinnertime sharing plates. In 2019, Vernick expanded next door with

Vernick Wine,

a wine shop by day and private dining space by evening. Restaurant, 2031 Walnut Street, (267) 639-6644; Wine, 2029 Walnut Street, (267) 951-2962,

vernickphilly.com

Via Locusta –

Prolific restaurateurs Nina Tinari and Michael Schulson combined forces with chef Jeff Michaud, known for Italian cuisine, on an elegant and spare dinner-only dining room serving pristine handmade pastas, delicate small plates (scallop crudo, chicory salad) and artisanal cocktails. 1723 Locust Street, (215) 642-0020,

vialocusta.com

Bring-Your-Own-Bottle (BYOB) Spots

Audrey Claire

–

Large windows, an open kitchen and outdoor seating — not to mention stellar Mediterranean and American fare—add to the cool, casual ambiance at this beloved corner BYOB, which now accepts reservations any night it’s open. 276 S. 20th Street, (215) 731-1222,

audreyclaire.com

Melograno –

Chef Gianluca Demontis prepares Italian specialties such as pappardelle, risotto and several fish dishes at this elevated trattoria and BYOB. 2012 Sansom Street, (215) 875-8116,

melogranophilly.com

Res

Ipsa Cafe –

This small, unassuming space belies the impressive nature of the all-day cafe, serving casual breakfasts featuring ReAnimator Coffee and house-made English muffins; simple lunches of fried green tomato sandwiches and mozzarella calzones; and, Wednesday through Monday, note-perfect Sicilian dinner specialties. 2218 Walnut Street, (267) 519-0329,

resipsaphilly.com

Casual Dining

Alimentari –

The upstairs of Di Brunos Bros market has become a lunchtime through dinner destination unto itself, with a cheese-forward menu of delicious pizza by the slice, excellently rich sandwiches, a mozzarella bar, salads and approachable Italian wines. 1730 Chestnut Street, 2nd floor, (267) 764-5143,

dibruno.com/alimentari

Almaz Cafe –

This Ethiopian cafe offers breakfast and lunch and is known for its

doro wot

(Ethiopian chicken stew), wrap sandwiches and great coffee. Customers can people-watch from the spacious loft area. 140 S. 20th Street, (215) 557-0108,

almazcafe.com

Bar Bombón

–

The aesthetic may be inspired by Old San Juan, but the all-vegan menu is thoroughly modern. Patrons enjoy Latin American food with a twist along with margaritas available by the glass or pitcher. 133 S. 18th Street, (267) 606-6612,

barbombon.com

Butcher Bar –

From the owners of eateries Valanni, Mercato and Varga Bar comes a meat-focused menu tempting carnivores with Sloppy Joe poutine, house-made sausage, four kinds of meatballs and smoked wild boar ribs, along with 16 beers and six wines on tap, and a whiskey-based cocktail selection. 2034 Chestnut Street, (215) 563-MEAT,

butcherbarphilly.com

Gran Caffè L’Aquila

–

Constructed in Italy and transported to Philadelphia, this cafe, bar and restaurant stays open morning to night, serving pastries, panini, 24 flavors of International Gelato Champion Stefano Biasini’s artisanal gelato, a notable list of wines and house-roasted coffee. The downstairs stand-up bar lends authenticity; the upstairs has a full-service restaurant, gelato lab, wine tastings and Italian language lessons. 1716 Chestnut Street,(215) 568-5600,

grancafeelaquila.com

The Continental Mid-town

–

A spirited energy fills the three levels of this fun restaurant and bar, known for its big salads, Szechuan shoestring fries and cheesesteak eggrolls. The partially enclosed rooftop lounge, which stays open year-round and draws a young, fashionable crowd. 1801 Chestnut Street, (215) 567-1800,

continentalmidtown.com

DanDan –

A blend of Taiwanese and Sichuan food takes the stage at this bi-level bistro. Balcony seats are the best in the house and the namesake specialty dan dan noodles are not to be missed. 126 S. 16th Street, (215) 800-1165,

dandanrestaurant.com

The Dandelion

–

Modeled after traditional gastropubs in Britain, this cozy, charming and handsome Stephen Starr eatery invites Anglophiles to imbibe cask-stored pints and dine on delicious Welsh rarebit, shepherd’s pie or sticky toffee pudding. And what would a British restaurant be without afternoon tea? 124 S. 18th Street, (215) 558-2500,

thedandelionpub.com

El Rey –

Set in an old diner, Stephen Starr’s Mexican spot serves home-style brunch, lunch, dinner and Mexican sodas and margaritas anytime, and hosts a popular happy hour. Tucked behind El Rey, the

Ranstead Room

channels a speakeasy; it’s dimly lit, with expert mixologists. Restaurant, 2013 Chestnut Street, (215) 563-3330; bar, 2013 Ranstead Street, (215) 563-3330,

elreyrestaurant.com

K’Far –

A pretty Israeli cafe comes from Israeli culinary specialist Michael Solomonov and James Beard Award-winning chef Camille Cogswell. Breakfast through lunch, customers line up to order pistachio sticky buns, chocolate babka, Jerusalem bagels, Kubaneh toasts, Tunisians salads; dinner is a sit-down operation with a hearty Middle Eastern menu of pomegranate-harissa chicken,

t-bit

(an Iraqi beef and vegetable casserole) and

chraime

(Moroccan cod stew). 110 S. 19th Street, (267) 800-7200,

kfarcafe.com

Harper’s Garden

–

This plant-dappled, indoor-outdoor dining spot on a busy block has a seasonal menu of shareable plates, great wine, specialty cocktails and beer from a 30-line draft system. 31 S. 18th Street, (267) 886-8552,

harpersgardenphilly.com

Mission Taqueria –

Atop the Oyster House, this sunny taqueria remixes Mexican classics, resulting in green juice margaritas, braised lamb tacos with

nopale

relish and

mixto

ceviche with crispy plantains, and coconut leche de tigre. 1516 Sansom Street, 2nd floor, (215) 383-1200,

missiontaqueria.com

Pizzeria Vetri

–

Crowds head to this pizza shop for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies and seasonal items in salads, small bites and house specialty pies like the savory Rotolo pizza and Nutella dessert pizza, stuffed with marshmallows. 1615 Chancellor Street, (215) 763-3760,

pizzeriavetri.com

Stock Rittenhouse –

Steaming Southeast Asian soups, banh mi and spicy salads are up for grabs at this petite noodle joint from chef Tyler Akin. Customers order at the counter for lunch and enjoy full table service after 5 p.m.; a gluten-free and vegan friendly menu lets customer add protein to customize their dish. 1935 Chestnut Street, (215) 988-9480,

stockphilly.com

Village Whiskey –

Chef Jose Garces put a handsome stamp on the corner bar by offering 100 varieties of whiskey, bourbon, rye and scotch alongside sparkling wines and American craft beer. and a menu of awesome burgers, salads and snacks. 118 S. 20th Street, (215) 665-1088,

philadelphia.villagewhiskey.com

Fast Casual

Dizengoff

–

With just 25 seats, this

hummusiya

draws a line out its door during prime eating hours. Those in the know wait for light, Israeli-style hummus; just-baked pita; seasonally changing meat and vegetable toppings; and a full bar. 1625 Sansom Street, (215) 867-8181,

dizengoffphilly.com

El Merkury –

Pop-up shop turned brick-and-mortar eatery specializes in Mayan cuisine and churros. Corn, chocolate, chili and beans go into popular dishes such as maize-based flatbread

pupusas

, available

con carne

or vegetarian. 2104 Chestnut Street, (267) 457-5952,

elmerkury.com

Federal Donuts

–

People come here for one thing: deep-fried joy. It’s delivered in the form of Korean-style chicken, with a variety of rubs and glazes and available in sandwich form, and hot fresh or fancy doughnuts in constantly changing flavors like cinnamon brown sugar, blueberry pancake, strawberry lavender and chocolate éclair — and coffee, of course. 1632 Sansom Street, (215) 665-1101,

federaldonuts.com

Goldie

–

This all-vegan, kosher and oh-so-good walkup by Steve Cook and Michael Solomonov serves three things: falafel (in a pita or a salad), shawarma-spiced French fries and tehina shakes. The lunchtime line is worth the wait. 1526 Sansom Street, (267) 239-0777,

goldiefalfel.com

HipCityVeg

–

In a city best known for its cheesesteak, this eat-in (but mostly takeout) spot welcomes eaters for quick bites, including fabulous faux cheesesteaks and great sweet potato fries. 127 S. 18th Street, (215) 278-7605,

hipcityveg.com

Honeygrow –

At this busy spot, a kiosk ordering system, flavorful smoothies and freshly prepared salads and stir-fry draw Center City crowds for lunch and dinner. Newcomers should be sure to sample the Honeybar, where they can choose from a variety of local honeys, fruit and toppings to make a delicious, healthy snack. 110 S. 16th Street, (215) 279-7724,

honeygrow.com

Mac Mart –

Originally a mac and cheese truck, this now-stationary spot serves all kinds of delicious toppings (Buffalo chicken, jumbo lump crabmeat, crunchy fried onions, crispy bacon) atop the childhood favorite. 104 S. 18th Street, (215) 444-6144,

macmartcart.com

Nom Nom Ramen

–

These are not dorm-room noodles. Authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen bowls come filled with mushrooms, bamboo, kelp, pickled ginger or soft-boiled eggs, among other ingredients. 20 S. 18th Street, (215) 988-0898,

nomnomramen.com

Poi Dog

–

Borne out of a popular food truck, this specialist in Hawaiian fare mixed in Filipino, Japanese and Portuguese The counter operation serves Ahi poke, pulled pork and cabbage, Spam musubi (Spam and rice wrapped in nori) and andagi (deep-fried dough). 100½ S. 21st Street, (215) 279-7015,

poidogphilly.com

P.S. & Co. –

The menu changes seasonally based on the availability of organic ingredients at this stylishly rustic, 100% organic, plant-based, gluten-free, kosher parve walkup restaurant, known for cold-pressed juices and shockingly delicious desserts. 1706 Locust Street, (215) 985-1706,

puresweets.com

Revolution Taco –

This storefront taqueria serves eclectic tacos (smoked pork pastor; smoked mushroom vegan; roast duck with scallion pancake shell), burritos and house-made empanadas. 2015 Walnut Street, (267) 639-5681,

therevolutiontaco.com

Steve’s

Prince of Steaks –

With a prime location, Northeast Philly-born Steve’s offers convenience in addition to its delectable sandwiches. Cheesesteaks, hoagies, burgers and fries satisfy diners looking for a Philly-centric meal. 41 S. 16th Street, (215) 972-6090,

stevesprinceofsteakscom

V Street

–

The couple behind nationally acclaimed Vedge keep hungry (and thirsty) vegans happy with global street food, such as Peruvian fries and Korean fried tempeh tacos, and creative cocktails at this sleek, relaxed Rittenhouse bar. Even non-vegans love it here. 126 S. 19th Street, (215) 278-7943,

vstreetfood.com

Cafes & Confections

La Colombe –

Daniel Boulud is one of the chefs who favors the beans from this elegant European-style but Philly-born cafe, which serves its roasts in Fima Deruta pottery. Coffee drinkers who want to bring the brewed goodness home can pick up the first-of-its-kind Draft Latte, with patented technology that produces a frothy cold latte in a can, or the For Haiti blend, which supports an organization that teaches Haitian farmers to become sustainable coffee producers. 130 S. 19th Street, (215) 563-0860; 1414 S. Penn Square, (215) 977-7770,

lacolombe.com

Lil’ Pop Shop –

This homemade popsicle shop serves creamy and non-dairy treats with an emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients. Garden mint chocolate chunk and basil lemonade have been known to grace the menu, as do coffee and baked goods. (During winter holidays, pies take over the space.) 229 S. 20th Street, 215-309-5822,

lilpopshop.com

Metropolitan Bakery and Cafe

–

This Philadelphia institution doles out wonderful breads, spreads, scones and sweets, along with grab-and-go artisan cheeses, produce and sandwiches. Patrons at the adjacent, sit-down cafe can enjoy pizzas, salads, sandwiches, croissants, quiche and coffee. 262 & 264 S. 19th Street, (215) 545-6655,

metropolitanbakery.com

Miel Patisserie

–

Gourmet cakes, sophisticated pastry and handcrafted, artisan chocolates line the cases at this tempting shop. Patrons can munch on a hot or cold sandwich or sip an espresso while trying to choose their treat. 204 S. 17th Street, (215) 731-9191,

mielpatisserie.com

Rival Bros. Coffee –

Rival Bros’ roasts go into the expertly crafted coffee drinks at this delightful cafe, one of a handful of city locations. 1528 Spruce Street,

rivalbros.com

Spread

Bagelry –

This rapidly expanding Montreal-style bagel shop bakes its goods in a wood-fired oven. They’re topped with homemade seasonal spreads, such as spring onion scallion cream cheese, freshly ground peanut butter, Amish cream cheese, or stuffed as sandwiches. The flagship at 24th and Walnut streets has an in-house brewery; a new location is in the works at 106 S. 16th Street. 262 S. 20th Street, (215) 545-0626; 2401 Walnut Street, (267) 692-2435,

spreadybagelry.com

Swiss Haus Bakery

–

Century-old European recipes have kept this establishment going for 90 years. Customers come for custom cakes for every occasion, pastries and cookies. 35 S. 19th Street, (215) 563-0759,

swisshausbakery.com

Ultimo –

A local innovator in the craft coffee movement, Ultimo lures java fiends with drinks made from Philly-roasted beans. Bold, citrusy pour-overs go great with a treat or pastry from Dottie’s Donuts or Four Worlds Bakery. 238 S. 20th Street, (267) 804-7972,

ultimocoffee.com

Other Culinary Concepts

COOK

–

Philadelphia’s hardest reservation to score isn’t at a swanky restaurant; it’s COOK, a collaborative kitchen-classroom that accommodates 16 guests per class. Celebrated and up-and-coming chefs impart their foodie know-how, demoing doughnuts, knife skills, mixology, homemade pizza and so much more deliciousness. The best part: Guests eat the lesson. 253 20th Street, (215) 735-COOK,

audreyclairecook.com

Di Bruno Bros.

–

Renowned for its selection of cheeses and meats, this locally owned gourmet market also offers sandwiches, prepared foods made daily and wonderful cappuccino and pastries. 1730 Chestnut Street, (215) 665-9220,

dibruno.com

Bars/Entertainment

1 Tippling Place –

Bargoers who can find this hidden gem — there’s no sign outside — give it rave reviews. Comfortable, living room-style seating areas create an ambiance that’s the perfect mix of casual and upscale. 2006 Chestnut Street,

1tpl.com

Blume –

Splashed with magenta and turquoise artwork, hanging with dozens of plants, upholstered in bronze tones, this botanical cocktail spot combines Victorian and contemporary aesthetics with an international menu of crowd-pleasers. 1500 Locust Street, (267) 761-5582,

blumehilly.com

The

Franklin Bar

Mortgage & Investment Company

–

A subterranean speakeasy serves artisanal cocktails in a handsome basement setting. Upstairs,

Encima

offers an edgy interior for agave-based cocktails with a focus on mezcal and homemade tamale 112 S. 18th Street, (267) 467-3277;

thefranklinbar.com

The GOAT –

Named after the Rittenhouse Square sculpture — not an NFL player — this late-afternoon to late-night beer and cocktail destination from beloved bar owner Ferguson “Fergie” Carey offers creative comfort food such as honey hot crispy chicken sandwiches, short rib poutine, vegan bulgogi and Reuben hamburgers. 1907 Sansom Street,

thegoatphilly.com

Monk’s Café –

This Philadelphia beer institution pours only the finest in crafts. Novices shouldn’t be intimidated — the helpful bartenders can help to decipher the thick “Beer Bible” and suggest the perfect dish to complement the brew. Regulars swear by the burgers, mussels and frites — all served until 1 a.m. nightly. 264 S. 16th Street, (215) 545-7005,

monkscafe.com

SPiN Philadelphia –

The main attraction at this large, mural-clad social club/bar/restaurant: 16 Olympic-sized ping pong tables that can be reserved in advance or upon arrival — and a tempting bathtub of ping pong balls. Players and spectators also enjoy DJ-spun music, creative cocktails and shareable bar fare. 211 S. 15th Street, (267) 463-4850,

wearespin.com

Stir Lounge –

The music pumping inside this LGBTQ bar is audible from the outside, enticing passersby to come in and partake in the fun. Friendly bartenders and even friendlier pours accompany the jams. 1705 Chancellor Street, (215) 732-2700,

stirphilly.com

Tria Rittenhouse –

Since 2004, this casual, intimate wine bar has prided itself on well-described vino, boutique beers and snacks (and sandwiches and salads), served lunch through dinner. 123 S. 18th Street, (215) 972-TRIA,

triaphilly.com

Tria Taproom –

This reimagined neighborhood bar doesn’t have a bottle in the building. Instead, it serves 40 craft beers, fine wines and hand-batched cocktails from a draft, best accompanied by the wood-grilled flatbreads. 2005 Walnut Street, (215) 557-TAPS,

triaphilly.com

Twenty Manning Grill

–

This sleekly modern neighborhood spot offers a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere and a menu of refined traditional American cuisine. Tip: Bar guests vie for the couch seats by the front windows. 261 S. 20th Street, (215) 731-0900,

twentymanning.com

Vesper Sporting Club –

Once a swanky supper club, Vesper has reinvented itself as a modern sports bar and nightclub, complete with more than 40 HD TV screens, bottle service and weekend DJ dance parties. There’s also an underground bar, accessible by dialing the rotary phone in the entrance. 223 S. Sydenham Street, (267) 603-2468,

vespersportingclub.com

Music, Stage & Film

Adrienne Theater –

Tucked onto a narrow, quiet block

the home of several arts companies hosts comedy and improv at Philly Improv Theater, kid-driven MacGuffin Theatre & Film Company and short-form improv group Comedy Sportz. 2030 Sansom Street,

phillyimprovtheater.com

macguffintf.com

phitcomedy.com

Chris’ Jazz Cafe

–

This spot hosts live jazz six nights a week (closed Sunday) and hosts 500 shows every year with local, national and international musicians. A full dinner menu accompanies the great music. 1421 Sansom Street, (215) 568-3131,

chrisjazzcafe.com

Curtis Institute of Music

–

Founded in 1924, Curtis educates and trains a highly selective group of young musicians for professional careers as artists. While only the best and most talented are accepted into the school, anyone can enjoy the free or very affordable performances that are at the heart of the school’s learn-by-doing approach. 1726 Locust Street, (215) 893-5252,

curtis.edu

The Drake –

On the first level of the historic Drake building, two recently renovated theaters serve as home to InterAct Theatre Company and resident companies Azuka, Inis Nua, PlayPenn and Simpatico Theatre. 302 S. Hicks Street,

azukatheatre.org

inisnuatheatre.org

interacttheatre.org

simpaticotheatre.org

First Unitarian Church

–

While most churches have a choir that performs at Sunday services, this one hosts rock concerts. R5 Productions, which also books shows for Union Transfer and Boot & Saddle, sets the calendar for this hot (literally) music heaven. 2125 Chestnut Street, (215) 821-7575,

r5productions.com

Helium Comedy Club

–

Standup comedians get their laughs Tuesday through Sunday nights at this intimate venue, which serves drinks, snacks and desserts. Funny folk take advantage of the weekly open-mic night on Tuesdays, along with standup, improv and sketch classes. 2031 Sansom Street, (215) 496-9001,

heliumcomedy.com

PFS

Roxy Theater

–

The Philadelphia Film Society runs the two-screen Roxy Theater, housed in two row houses. It offers educational programs on films and filmmakers, popular shows, independent movies, including daytime screenings for baby-toting grown-ups and a popular BYOB night. 2023 Sansom Street, (267) 639-9508,

filmadelphia.org/roxy-theater

Philadelphia Film Center –

The performing space formerly known as the Prince Theater currently screens movies using the only 4K Laser Projector in Center City. It’s also the longtime base of the Philadelphia Film Society’s annual Philadelphia Film Festival. 1412 Chestnut Street, (215) 422-4580,

princetheater.org

Plays & Players Theatre

–

One of the oldest continuously running theaters in the United States, opened as The Little Theatre in 1912. Its location on a quiet, residential street adds to its charm — as do the comedic antics of theater troupe 1812 Productions, whose annual holiday romp, “This Is the Week That Is… ,” has been a Philly favorite for more than a decade. Upstairs, Skinner Studio offers additional programming and access to Quig’s Pub. 1714 Delancey Place, (215) 735-0630,

playsandplayers.org

Museums, Attractions & Galleries

The Center for Emerging Visual Artists (CFEVA) –

Dedicated to supporting artists throughout the region, The Center for Emerging Visual Artists provides career support, exhibition opportunities and education for visual artists. The public is welcome — free of charge — to enjoy exhibitions, citywide festivals and behind-the-scenes art tours. 237 S. 18th Street, 3rd Floor, (215) 546-7775,

cfeva.org

The famed skull collection is one draw of the Mutter Museum. — Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia

Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

–

It’s been said that “You ain’t seen nuthin’ ’til you’ve seen the giant colon” at this historic medical and medical oddities museum. Truth be told, however, really, visitors sure see something when they see the “Soap Lady,” view the Hyrtl Skull Collection, immerse themselves in other disturbingly informative medical artifacts — or even just ogle a tumor removed from President Grover Cleveland or slides of Albert Einstein’s brain. 19 S. 22nd Street, (215) 560-8564,

muttermuseum.org

One Liberty Observation Deck

–

Even birds are envious of this place. An entertaining video plays as the elevator zips visitors up to the 57th floor of One Liberty Place, where wraparound, floor-to-ceiling windows reveal panoramic views. Interactive kiosks zoom in on Philadelphia landmarks and exhibits offer interesting history, architecture and art tidbits that help form the fabric of Philadelphia. 1650 Market Street, 57th floor, (215) 561-3325,

phillyfromthetop.com

The Print Center –

Free and open to the public, this gallery, founded in 1915, was a pioneer in its dedication to the appreciation of prints. Today, the vibrant nonprofit encourages the growth and understanding of photography and printmaking as important contemporary arts via exhibits, public programs, publications, education and a gallery shop with contemporary prints, photographs and other printed objects by artists from all over the world. 1614 Latimer Street, (215) 735-6090,

printcenter.org

Philadelphia Art Alliance at UArts

–

Across the street from Rittenhouse Square, the circa 1915 Wetherill Mansion is now the provenance of the University of the Arts, whose interdisciplinary goal is to promote and to develop makers, performers and other artists. Exhibits here aim to reflect a fluid approach to the arts while encouraging exploration and conversation. 251 S. 18th Street, (215) 545-4302,

uarts.edu/artalliance

The Rosenbach

–

Inside a stately row home, this museum houses an impressive collection of art, antiques, rare archives and literary treasures. Among them: the only surviving copy of Ben Franklin’s first

Poor Richard’s Almanack,

James Joyce’s manuscript for

Ulysses

, Bram Stoker’s notes and outlines for

Dracula

and more than 100 personal letters from George Washington. 2008-2010 Delancey Place, (215) 732-1600,

rosenbach.org

Shops

Bella Turka –

Midtown Village’s global jeweler Koray Avci fills his second shop with home accents and personal accessories, including some fabulous handmade scarves—with many pieces by Philadelphia and other American designers — to its irresistible repertoire. 1700 Sansom Street, (215) 560-8731,

bellaturka.com

Benjamin Lovell Shoes –

Benjamin Lovell proves that fashionable shoes don’t have to hurt. Famously comfortable brands, including Dansko, On-Running, Naot and Pikolinos, line the shelves. 1728 Chestnut Street, (215) 564-4655,

blshoes.com

Blue Sole Shoes –

This fine Italian men’s footwear specialist stocks designs by Magnanni, John Richmond, Jo Ghost and Tateossian, along with socks and accessories. 1805 Chestnut Street, (215) 496-9224,

bluesoleshoes.com

Born Yesterday –

This boutique stocks designer clothing and toys for fashionable babies, tots and kids up to size 12 for girls and size 10 for boys. There are even Philadelphia-themed onesies and T-shirts (custom Rocky, the Eagles). 1901 Walnut Street, (215) 568-6556,

bornyesterdaykids.com

Boyds Philadelphia –

For four generations, Boyds has been dressing Philadelphians in the best of the best. Guests receive royal treatment from the attentive staff, including valet parking and a few dozen tailors, while browsing clothing and accessories by big names like Ermenegildo Zegna and Alexander McQueen. 1818 Chestnut Street, (215) 564-9000,

boydsphila.com

Commonwealth Proper

–

Founded in 2008 as a shirt maker, this company has expanded to design and makes all aspects of a man’s wardrobe: custom suits, blazers, pants, accessories and overcoats. There’s personal styling too. 1839 Chestnut Street, (267) 319-1741,

commonwealthproper.com

Egan Rittenhouse –

Inside the elegant Rittenhouse hotel, Kate Egan brings her impeccable taste to a pristine gift stock of Lostine candleholders, Alex Stadler sketches (both local products), elegant glassware, men’s grooming products, children’s toys and a full-service floral studio. 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, (215) 433-1632,

eganrittenhouse.com

Head Start Shoes

–

For nearly 40 years, this shop has been a Philly go-to, specializing in pristine Italian boots and shoes for women. 126 S. 17th Street, (215) 567-3247,

head-start-shoes.shoplightspeed.com

Jacques Ferber

–

Luxurious furs and shearlings, Herno and Creenstone, Loro Piana cashmere, Italian leather down from AFG, alpaca coats and fur accessories look right at home in this revamped historic space. 1708 Walnut Street, 2nd floor, (215) 735-4173,

jacquesferber.com

Joan Shepp

–

Joan Shepp has been a Philadelphia fashion powerhouse since 1971. Named by

Harper’s Bazaar

as one of the country’s style leaders, she and daughter Ellen stock their 9,000-square-foot store with designer womenswear from Maison Margiela, Dries Van Noten, Comme des Garçons and Balenciaga, along with local designers. 1811 Chestnut Street, (215) 735-2666,

joanshepp.com

Joseph Fox Bookshop –

Opened in 1951, this independent walkup has survived mega-stores, online retailers and electronic readers thanks to its obsession with its customers and its loyalty to the written word. The knowledgeable staff helps guests find their next great read in the store, or they order it for next-day delivery. 1724 Sansom Street, (215) 563-4184,

foxbookshop.com

LAGOS –

This fine jewelry shop offers enduring jewelry created in Philadelphia by founder and master jeweler Steven Lagos. 1735 Walnut Street, (215) 567-0770,

lagos.com

NINObrand

–

Open by appointment only, this chic atelier and showroom showcases the talents of Philadelphia designer Bela Shehu. The style-savvy come here for runway-ready casual and evening looks like asymmetrical dresses, timeless tops and bottoms and a hand-crafted collection of modern jewelry. 333 S. 20th Street, (267) 761-9388,

ninobrand.com

Shakespeare & Co –

Philadelphia has the first expansion location of this classic New York City bookstore. The handsome, wood-trimmed venue stocks 15,000 titles, features the Espresso Book Machine, which can print personalized books, journals, and millions of public domain publications — all in 10 minutes. The cafe serves treats, including La Colombe coffee and Metropolitan Bakery goods. 1632 Walnut Street, (215) 486-2106,

shakeandco.com

Shop Sixty Five –

One of Gwyenth Paltrow’s Goop picks for one of the undeniably best places to shop in Philadelphia, this boutique outfits its clients in luxury knitwear, designer denim and envy-inspiring handbags from progressive collections. 128 S. 17th Street, (267) 239-5488,

shopsixtyfive.com

Skirt

–

Trend-seekers can find contemporary, high-end womenswear in this sleek space. Expert in-store stylists guide shoppers through the racks of recognizable, high-end women’s lines. 212 S. 17th Street, (215) 309-8419,

shop-skirt.com

Sophy Curson –

Since 1929, Sophy Curson has been filling the closets of Philadelphia’s most distinguished women. In addition to colorful wool dresses, cocktail frocks and evening gowns, the shop carries European sportswear, jackets and trousers, daytime dresses (with sleeves) and cashmere sweaters. 122 S. 19th Street, (215) 567-4662,

sophycurson.com

Ubiq –

Three floors of kicks, clothes and art keep sneakerheads coming back to this store again and again. 1509 Walnut Street, (215) 988-0194,

ubiqlife.com

Wayne Edwards Workshop –

This father-and-son operation has been outfitting Philadelphia men since 1970. The atelier specializes in individualized clothing and an edited selection of sportswear. 1710 Sansom Street, 2nd floor, (267) 606-6691,

wayneedwardsworkshop.com

Spas & Beauty

Rescue Spa Philadelphia –

Manicures, pedicures, massages, hair removal, makeovers and hair services are all on the menu, but the outstanding facials and skin treatments make Rescue a standout in the neighborhood — and the world. (The spa has a second location in New York City.) 1601 Walnut Street, 3rd floor (866) 772-2766,

rescuespa.net

Ursula’s About Phace –

Ursula Augustine opened her makeup studio to provide safe alternatives to harsh beauty treatments. In addition to makeup application, the salon offers her signature brow shaping. 1700 Sansom Street, Suite 201, (215) 557-1562,

aboutphace201.com

Mi Cumbia Organica –

The beauty treatments at this Colombian-inspired nail and waxing salon incorporate natural and organic ingredients like fresh coconut and mango. Patrons can enjoy Colombian coffee during services. 328 S. 17th Street, (215) 735-7980,

micumbia.co

Parks & Outdoor Spaces

Fitler Square –

This charming half-acre park sits south and west of Rittenhouse Square and hosts neighborhood gatherings, including a holiday tree lighting, Easter egg hunt, Halloween party, a farmers’ market and seasonal fairs. 23rd & Pine streets,

fitlersquare.org

Rittenhouse Square –

The centerpiece of an upscale neighborhood, Rittenhouse Square is alive with locals and visitors amid greenery and colorful flowers. The historic park features walkways, sculptures, fountains and a reflecting pool. Craft fairs, art shows, farmers’ markets and events of all kinds shine a spotlight on the picturesque location all year. 18th & Walnut streets,

friendsofrittenhouse.org

Pink blossoms bloom on trees in Rittenhouse Square in spring.

Schuylkill Banks

and

Boardwalk, Schuylkill River Trail –

This eight-mile stretch of riverbank and over-the-water concrete boardwalk provides an ideal setting for running, biking, skating or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll and a picnic. Right next to the water, this stretch also offers fishing, kayaking and boating. Entry points are at 25th and Locust streets, Walnut Street west of 24th Street, Chestnut Street west of 24th Street and South Street.

schuylkillbanks.org

Hotels

AKA Rittenhouse Square –

Specializing in stays of a week or longer, this hotel residence balances the style and hospitality of an intimate boutique hotel with the comfort and elegance of a luxurious residence. The 12-story historic landmark features respectfully restored interiors with a contemporary vibe and 78 studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom suites with full kitchens. 135 S. 18th Street, (215) 825-7000,

stayaka.com

The Dwight D.

–

Feeling very much like an elegant private residence, this 11-room brownstone adjoins Belgian Monk’s Café, famous for a beer list its owner calls a “bible.” Pollock-esque artwork and vintage brasserie posters impart a contemporary air to traditional, luxurious décor. A Cottage Suite in a neighboring residence offers three bedrooms, a kitchen, living room, den and rear garden. 256-258 S. 16th Street, (215) 772-1901,

thedwightd.com

Fitler Club –

Opened in 2019, an expansive private lifestyle club overlooking the Schuylkill River offers members and hotel guests access to cuisine by chef Marc Vetri, a stellar cocktail scene, intimate live performances, vast fitness center, private movie theater and posh games lounge, along with chic design and original modern art. Fourteen suites — nine queen and king rooms, three king lofts, a 860-square-foot master and the 1,095-square-foot Fitler — offer a modern aesthetic and midcentury flourishes such as rotary phones and classic alarm clocks. 24 S. 24th Street, (215) 575-9092,

fitlerclub.com

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia –

An overhead portrait of Benjamin Franklin greets guests at the entrance of this 230-room, LEED-certified, Art Deco property, known for its in-room spa services, daily wine hours, pet- and kid-friendliness and New American restaurant and bar,

Square 1682.

Hotel, 117 S. 17th Street, (215) 563-5006,

hotelpalomar-philadelphia.com

; restaurant, 121 S. 17th Street, (215) 563-5008,

square1682.com

Pod Philly –

The city’s first micro hotel houses 252 minimalist, 150- to 320-square-foot pods — bunk or queen rooms — with lively communal spaces and access to a nearby yoga studio and a co-working space. The hotel is also known for its dining:

El Café

for Stumptown coffee and Mexican pastries;

Condesa

(see above); and

El Techo,

a year-round rooftop bar with a retractable glass roof and great cocktail list. Hotel, 31 S. 19th Street, (267) 494-0440,

thepodhotel.com

The Racquet Club of Philadelphia –

An elite private club that dates to 1882 allows overnight guests to grace its hallowed, red-brick, Georgian Revival clubhouse. The club’s 13 guest rooms are traditional, featuring queen or king four-poster beds, access to the polished, old worldly 1889 Pub & Grill — and paid access to the property’s esteemed and historic indoor racquet sport courts. 215 S. 16th Street, (215) 735-1525,

rcop.com

The Rittenhouse

–

Overlooking the square, this luxury property feels as glamorous as its neighboring apartment buildings — and has the posh amenities to match. There’s an elegant by-reservation

Mary Cassatt Tea Room,

cozy

Library Bar,

renowned French restaurant

Lacroix

(see above) and the Philadelphia location of New York’s pasta pioneer, Hotel, 210 Rittenhouse Square, (215) 546-9000,

rittenhousehotel.com

; Scarpetta, (215) 558-4199,

scarpettarestaurants.com/philadelphia

The sundeck of The Rittenhouse hotel on Rittenhouse Square.

ROOST Midtown –

Built in the roaring 20s, the elegant Charles S.W. Packard Building houses the city’s first ROOST, stylish extended-stay accommodations with herringbone hardwood floors, midcentury-inspired furnishings and artwork, living plants, Apple TV and more home-y comforts in each studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and two-bedroom penthouse apartment — 28 in all. 111 S. 15th Street, (267) 737-9000,

myroost.com

ROOST Rittenhouse

–

Rittenhouse’s second ROOST occupies a turn-of-the-20th-century building among in-demand shops and restaurants. All of the above features — softly modern design, full kitchens, 24/7 service, international vintage and antique touches — grace each of the 27 rooms (studio, one-bedroom, one-bedroom with den, two-bedroom and multi-bedroom penthouse apartment). 1831 Chestnut Street, (267) 469-0349,

myroost.com

Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse –

The classic French hotel offers simple, chic — French — elegance in the former Philadelphia Stock Exchange building. Among the 300 rooms are 67 luxury suites. Dining amenities include Southern French breakfast-through-dinner

Chez Colette

and

Liberté

, a modern lounge with handcrafted cocktails and French bites. 120 S. 17th Street, (215) 569-8300,

sofitel-philadelphia.com

Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square –

With 439 art-inspired rooms, Sonesta is large and comfortable, with amenities that include a rooftop pool (in season). Onsite dining and drinking options include stylish

ArtBar,

with craft cocktails, communal tables and an innovative display of original artwork curated by The Center for Emerging Visual Artists, and popular

Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

1800 Market Street, (215) 561-7500,

sonesta.com/philadelphia

; Ruth’s Chris, (215) 790-1515,

ruthschris.com

Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square –

Opened in 1928, the Warwick is an English Renaissance 300-room property listed on the National Register of Historic Places — and a modern destination, from the lobby to the extra-large exercise center. Onsite dining is paramount:

Spice Finch

(see above);

The Prime Rib,

a swanky, business casual steakhouse known for its Manhattans; and

Bluestone Lane,

an Australian cafe with great flat whites and avocado toast. Hotel, 220 S. 17th Street, (215) 735-6000,

warwickrittenhouse.com

; steakhouse, 1701 Locust Street, (215) 772-1701,

theprimerib.com

; cafe, 1701 Locust Street, (718) 374-6858,

bluestonelane.com

The Westin Philadelphia –

Inside the landmark Liberty One building, this AAA, Four-Diamond hotel has a traditional look and famously comfortable beds. The spot welcomes families and pets, offers 24-hour access to fitness and a club-like dining, breakfast through dinner, at Winthorpe & Valentine. Hotel, 99 S. 17th Street, (215) 563-1600; restaurant, (215) 575-6930,

marriott.com

VISIT PHILADELPHIA

is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.

On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog,

visitphilly.com

and

uwishunu.com

, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.

‘With malice toward none; with charity for all …’

Written by Carl Peters/

Diocese of Camden

After years of civil war, Abraham Lincoln was under pressure to drop the abolition of slavery as a condition for peace with the confederate forces. He refused, saying, “The world shall know that I will keep my faith to friends and enemies, come what may.”

“When Lincoln said this, he fully expected to lose the election in November,” the Civil War historian James M. McPherson noted. But a couple of major military victories helped sweep him to victory. (New Jersey was one of only three Union states he did not carry.) He took the oath of office for his second term as president on March 4, 1865.

Lincoln was never a member of a church, so political opponents had often accused him of being an atheist. In the election of 1860, when he was first elected president, 21 of the 24 ministers in Springfield — his home — voted against him “in large part because they considered him an infidel,” noted Stephen B. Oates, one of his biographers.

Yet Lincoln knew the Bible well, and he was convinced both of God’s existence and of humanity’s inability to fully comprehend or explain divine providence. He avoided the pious theatrics of Andrew Johnson — his vice president, a political compromise candidate — who waved a Bible in the air at his own swearing in and then gave it a passionate kiss, but Lincoln’s second inaugural was deeply religious.

People are seen visiting the Lincoln Memorial in Washington Dec. 15, 2019. Dedicated in 1922, the monument honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Presidents Day, a federal holiday celebrating all U.S. presidents, is observed Feb. 17 in 2020. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz)

The speech was also different – strikingly so — from what Americans now expect to hear from a politician. With the end of the war in sight, the president did not claim vindication for his leadership or for his party. Instead, he acknowledged that neither side expected the war to last as long as it had, or for the fighting to be as intense as it was.

At a time when the country was more fractured than ever before or since — when regional and political differences had the most serious consequences for the country’s citizens — he noted that both sides “read the same Bible, and pray to the same God.”

“The prayers of both could not be answered; that of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has his own purposes,” he said.

In addition to the Bible, Lincoln knew a great deal of Shakespeare. A man who was aware of his own driving political ambition, his favorite play was “Macbeth,” the story of a nobleman who believes he is destined to be king.

Yet Lincoln was utterly unlike Macbeth, who becomes increasingly ruthless in trying to hold on to his own political power and prestige. “For my own good, all causes shall give way,” the king declares.

In contrast, and despite political pressure, Lincoln held fast to the causes he believed were worth fighting for — the preservation of the Union and, when it became a realistic goal, the total abolition of slavery. He also held fast to his concern for all people of the United States, including his many opponents and those who lived in this country but were not citizens and thus did not have the right to vote.

Refusing to exploit the divisions that were continuing to tear the country apart, Lincoln began his second term in office with humility, expressing concerns that sound like they could have been voiced by Isaiah, Martin Luther King, Jr., or Pope Francis:

“With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan — to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.”

Afterward, Lincoln asked Frederick Douglass, the former slave and abolitionist, what he thought of the speech. “There is no man in the country whose opinion I value more than yours,” Lincoln said to him.

“Mr. Lincoln, that was a sacred effort,” Douglass answered.

Carl Peters is managing editor of the Catholic Star Herald.

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