Spruce Hill map / SHCA website.

Spruce Hill residents can have some input in what types of businesses may operate in the neighborhood in the near future. The Safe Streets and Commercial Corridors Committee of the Spruce Hill Community Association’s (SHCA) Board is seeking community input (those who live or/and work there) on preferred retail options in the neighborhood through an online Retail Preference Survey that can be accessed via this link.

The overall goal is to not only attract more businesses to invest in the neighborhood, which is located between 38th and 46th streets and between Market and Woodland, but to attract the type of businesses that the community wants in the neighborhood. SHCA is seeking to get as much data as possible from all segments of the community, so please share this survey with your friends and neighbors.

For more information about SHCA, visit their website.

Photo courtesy of UCD

One of the most popular local summer events, the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll, is set to return, according to an announcement by the event organizer, the University City District (UCD). Two Strolls are being planned this year – on Thursday, June 15, and Thursday, Sept. 7, each from 5 – 8 p.m..

Over the years, the event has become a local business and community festival. As always, neighbors and visitors will be able to enjoy dollar deals from participating vendors. In 2022, the price levels for vendor offerings were expanded from $1 deals to deals for $1, $3, or $5. More details about participating businesses and music performances will be released closer to each Stroll. Continue Reading

Grant Blvd founder and CEO, Kimberly McGlonn, outside the new store.

Grant Blvd, the West Philly based Black-owned business centered on sustainability and ethical clothing production, is set to open its new flagship store this spring at 140 S. 34th St., according to a recent announcement by Penn’s Division of Facilities & Real Estate Services.

Kimberly McGlonn, Ph.D., the founder and CEO of Grant Blvd, plans to expand upon her current success by taking designs in a new direction, and elevating the shopping experience for consumers with the opening of the new flagship store in University City.

Grant Blvd is the first Black-owned B Corp in the fashion space in North America, and a manufacturing start-up. In addition to reducing waste before and after production through sustainably focused design, the company works to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of those currently and formerly impacted by the criminal system by partnering with local non-profit and government agencies to create living wage employment opportunities. Continue Reading

Here’s some great news for shaved ice fans. Ice Cave, the popular Baltimore Avenue Taiwanese dessert shop, reopened earlier this month under new ownership. We reported a month ago that the former owners, Po Chang and Jessica Wang, had decided to close their store after more than six years in business due to family matters. However, less than two weeks later, a new family took over the space at 4520 Baltimore Ave, continuing the old tradition.

The new owners haven’t updated the business social media pages yet, and the website is offline. We’ll let you know more details as soon as we have them.

The hours of operation are: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. on weekdays (closed on Thursday), and 2 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday.

Unfortunately, there have been reports of two more food establishments closing in West Philly.

• University City’s iconic City Tap House unexpectedly announced permanent closing after 13 years  in operation at 3925 Walnut Street on Feb. 23 and closed three days later. The following message was posted on City Tap House University City’s Instagram page:

“It is with a heavy heart that we are informing you that the last day of service will be Sunday, February 26th. This was a difficult decision, as this location was the launchpad for our company’s growth over the last 13 years.”

Following the announcement, numerous messages of support followed in the comments. Continue Reading

Decluttering can bring many benefits, including improved mental health, increased space, and a clean home. Junk removal companies can help residents in West Philly get rid of unwanted items and organize their living spaces. This article will explore the benefits of decluttering and why you should consider using a professional junk removal company to do so.

The Benefits of Decluttering

Decluttering can bring many benefits to your life, including:

Improved Mental Health

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved focus and productivity

Increased Space

• More room for the things you love
• Better use of storage space

Enhanced Aesthetics

• A clean and organized home is more inviting
• Improved appearance can boost your mood and energy levels.

How to Get Started with Decluttering

Decluttering can seem overwhelming, but with a clear plan and a little bit of patience, you can transform your living space. Here are some tips to help you get started: Continue Reading