Here’s a short update on the demolition work that recently began on the 4700 block of Spruce street to make way for a 13-story mixed-use building.

The developer began work at the site in late May/early June with an expired demolition permit. The Department of Licenses and Inspections ordered work at the site to stop on June 6 by issuing an “Order to Correct”, which required the developer to obtain a new permit. The developer obtained a new permit on June 24 for “full demolition to create a vacant lot.” Since then the demolition notice has been posted on the site and the work is expected to resume shortly (see photo).

As a reminder, a 13-story apartment building will be built on the site, between the Garden Court community garden and the intersection of 48th and Spruce. It will include ground floor retail space and 170 mostly studio and one-bedroom apartments and  have 28 underground parking spaces. Read more about this project here.

ACCT Philly is hosting a free pet vaccine clinic and food pantry on Saturday, July 26 in Saunders Park, located at 39th and Powelton. The clinic will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include DHPP & Rabies vaccinations for dogs and FVRCP & Rabies vaccination for cats. Folks can also pick up some food and supplies for their pets.

ACCT is currently recruiting volunteers who can help make this event successful. Some slots have already been filled but many still remain open. ACCT especially needs help filling the following roles:

• Vaccinators (must be trained in administering vaccines)
• Vaccine Assistants (animal restraint support)
• Vaccine Prep (drawing up/preparing vaccines)

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The popular local theatre company, Shakespeare in Clark Park, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and inviting West Philly residents and guests to the park’s “Bowl” July 23-27 for the world premiere of “A Bottom’s Dream,” a “bold and joyful” musical interpretation of the classic “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

The new show is a queer pop disco adaptation of the play starring Philly drag icon Lili St. Queer. It also features a Barrymore-studded cast (see below) and a Youth Ensemble of local performers. “A Bottom Dream” features original music blending Chappell Roan, Donna Summer, and Daft Punk vibes.

The adaptation is created by Richard Rodgers Award winner Jay Eddy, a composer, writer, performer, and sound artist, and directed by Shamus. Music direction is by Beatrice Quinn and choreography is by Jessy Gruver.

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If you have wanted to explore University City/West Philly area restaurants, here’s a great chance.

University City Dining Days, is returning from July 17th through July 27th. This year’s event, organized by University City District (UCD), will include over 25 local restaurants and eateries. During these 11 days, guests can enjoy three-course meals for lunch or dinner for the set prices of $20, $30, or $40.

Dining Days offers a great opportunity to sample the area’s diverse restaurant scene at reduced prices while boosting business for eateries during the slower summer months. This is a great chance to try something new or revisit a neighborhood classic.

Participants this year include returning favorites Han Dynasty, Sabrina’s Cafe, and New Delhi along with first-time participants Haraz Coffee House, Lulu Cafe, and Corio.

Please note that all the reservations should be made directly at a restaurant of your choice. See the full list of participating restaurants and their contact info, plus Dining Days menus by visiting ucdiningdays.com.

Mayor Cherelle Parker announced the conclusion of the Philadelphia city workers strike today. The strike began on Tuesday, July 1. After negotiations, the City and AFSCME District Council 33 (DC 33) have reached a tentative agreement on a new three-year contract that will provide a more fair compensation for municipal employees. Following the conclusion of the strike, all City departments are now preparing to resume normal operations.

Normal curbside trash and recycling collections will resume on Monday, July 14. Temporary dumpster sites will be transitioned out and shut down on a rolling basis. Residents can stay updated on the list of sites here. Dumpster sites will be staffed with trash compactors and crews temporarily as the residual trash and debris is cleaned up.

Residents are urged to use the six Sanitation Convenience Centers. The centers will be open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. through Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, they will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Beginning Monday, July 14 they will resume normal operations, Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information on the new agreement and the schedule for resuming other city services, please click here.

Starting Wednesday, July 9, the Penn Museum (3260 South St) will be hosting Garden Jams, its popular summer outdoor concert series. Every Wednesday evening in July guests can enjoy live music by local Philadelphia bands, food trucks, and cocktails in historic Stoner Courtyard, a hidden garden oasis just off of South St. Each event begins at 5 p.m.

Feel free to BYO blanket and picnic essentials, excluding alcohol. The garden bar is fully stocked with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic refreshments. Please note that concerts are held indoors during inclement weather.

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