October 12, 2017
A new casual, healthy dining option is coming soon to the 3700 block of Spruce Street. A “fast casual” restaurant, Just Salad, has signed a lease for 3728 Spruce Street, a 1,600 square feet of space on a popular retail block, according to a recent announcement by Penn Facilities & Real Estate Services. Renovations to the space are currently underway, and the restaurant is expected to open in early 2018.
The new restaurant will offer seasonal salads, wraps, grain bowls, and smoothies and will include a seating area with a couple dozen chairs and café tables, a bar counter, a pickup station, and a tea station. Continue Reading
October 11, 2017
Jamie Gauthier
Jamie Gauthier, a Garden Court resident, has been named the executive director of the Fairmount Park Conservancy. The organization made the decision on September 13 and announced it on October 9. She had been acting director for several months.
She first joined the Conservancy, a nonprofit that promotes and improves Philadelphia’s parks in conjunction with the city, in January 2017. Prior to that, she had directed Philadelphia’s Sustainable Business Network (SBN), which she described as a kind of chamber of commerce for socially conscious businesses. While at SBN, she became drawn to “Rebuild,” City Hall’s $500 million program to revitalize neighborhoods. That eventually compelled her to leave SBN and join the Conservancy.
“Rebuild is the biggest neighborhood-centered initiative I can recall, so I had to be involved in it,” she said. “So that’s why I ended up leaving SBN, so that I could help the Conservancy connect to Rebuild in some way.” Continue Reading
October 10, 2017
Camp Sojourner is a nonprofit, year-round leadership program for girls ages 8-17. The program, based in West Philadelphia’s Calvary Center, culminates in a summer overnight camp for girls. On Friday, Oct. 13, another West Philly nonprofit, The Rotunda is hosting Sojo Groove Night, with performances by well-known Philly musicians. All proceeds benefit year-round activities at Camp Sojourner.
Sojo Groove Night will take place from 7:00 – 10:30 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and performances start at 8:00 p.m.
Camp Sojourner girls will be giving testimony, drumming, and participating in each element of the evening in an interactive manner. The diverse range of performers at Sojo Groove Night reflects the supporters and families who have participated in the program over the past ten years. Performances will include: Paulette Branson & Mixed People, a funky, soul fusion band with hints of rock and world music; Gretchen Elise and Band, performing interactive, original music that combines an international flavor with shades of Philly jazz and soul; and Unidos Da Filadelfia Samba Group, a community-based samba school whose mission is to spread the joy and excitement of Brazilian percussion. Continue Reading
October 9, 2017
Winnie Harris (center) during MLK Day of Service in January 2017 (Photo courtesy of UC Green).
Police say they have a suspect in custody in connection to the murder of West Philly activist Winnie Harris, who was found shot to death inside her home on the 300 block of North Holly Street on February 3, 2017. The suspect was arrested on Friday while in detention for another, unrelated matter, according to police. Charges against the suspect are pending. More details about the suspect have not been released as of Monday afternoon.
Harris, 65, was a longtime Powelton resident and green space advocate. She worked as the executive director of West Philadelphia based nonprofit UC Green at the time of her death.
In May, police released and distributed a flyer asking for the public’s help with information on two persons of interest in relation to the murder.
October 6, 2017
It will be a busy weekend for local pet owners.
Blessing of the Animals at St. Francis de Sales Church (photo by West Philly Local)
Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral will hold their annual Blessing of the Animals in Clark Park on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. – noon. The event will include free pet treats, a craft project, and some human snacks too! This fun tradition is connected to the celebration of St. Francis of Assisi, an Italian monk who’s remembered for his love of nature, care for the poor, and commitment to peace (as well as a sweet tooth!).
St. Francis was a friend to all animals, so communities throughout the world celebrate his life by celebrating the pets in their lives. This is not a church or worship service, but a space to drop by to meet other pet owners in the neighborhood and – if you wish – receive a blessing for your pet. If you have any questions, please contact The Reverend Sarah Hedgis at shedgis@philadelphiacathedral.org. Continue Reading
October 5, 2017
West Philly just got another Asian fusion restaurant, Daleng, and this one is family-owned and operated. The restaurant opened last weekend at 47th and Walnut, down the street from West Lofts. It serves classic and new dishes from across the continent with protein options of beef, chicken, pork, and fish, along with vegetarian choices.
The menu features Thai dishes such as spicy Tom Yum chicken and Pad Thai, Korean Tang Tang chicken, Cambodian beef Kroeung Stir Fry, Singaporean Mei Fun, and Vietnamese Banh Mi. Vegetarian offerings include eggplant veggie curry, pad thai with tofu, and an assortment of fried rices.
Beverage offerings currently stand at bubble tea, Vietnamese iced tea, Hong Kong milk tea and a variety of fruit smoothies. According to a sign posted in the window, the restaurant has applied for a permit to serve alcoholic beverages such as liquor, beer, and wine. Continue Reading
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