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Read the news of the day in less than 10 minutes — not that we’re counting.
It’s Valentine’s week, a week for love, and Philadelphia certainly lived up to the theme. The Democratic National Committee showed it loves our city, Mayor Nutter commissioned another study to show how beloved he is and something beautiful even happened on the El. Billy Penn recaps these stories and other top news from the week by combining them with music in the #BillyPennPlaylist (scroll to the bottom for Spotify).
“Put On For My City,” Young Jeezy feat. Kanye West
We won! Philadelphia is getting the 2016 DNC. Without any hope from our sports teams, this is the time to flaunt your Philly pride.
“I’m Not Okay (I Promise),” My Chemical Romance
New York City is all, “Phil-eh-delphia,” and “Philadelphia is less attractive in a dozen ways.” Go stew away in your $1,900-a-month Brooklyn studio while listening to the early-aughts emo that’s clearly reflecting your current attitude and GET OVER YOURSELVES.
“In The House of Stone and Light,” Martin Page
Philadelphia’s new digital billboards in Market East are blasting bright lights into people’s apartments all the way over in Washington Square West. The city’s response? “Get used to it.”
“Tom’s Diner,” Suzanne Vega
Franklin the dog is the #LOLSixers’ new mascot. He’s mildly disconcerting. But the #LOLSixers did play this wonderful song before they introduced him on Tuesday so that’s at least one redeeming quality.
“Can’t Remember to Forget You,” Shakira feat. Rihanna
This mayor’s race looks like it’s going to be pretty wide open, considering many Philadelphians don’t even know who the candidates are.
“Nice to Know You,” Incubus
In addition to kicking off his gubernatorial term by listing his schedule, Tommy Wolf is apparently saying hi and introducing himself to state lawmakers. This is not normal. One longtime Republican said it was the only time he could remember a governor doing it during his 15 terms.
“Total Eclipse of the Heart,” Bonnie Tyler
Once upon a time Philadelphia’s buildings were strong, now every winter they’re falling apart. Why? Partially because the Department of Licenses and Inspections is chronically understaffed, a problem the Controller’s office admitted this week.
“You! Me! Dancing!” Los Campesinos
Mayor Michael Nutter has been doing odd things like commissioning his own studies and polls that illustrate him as the best mayor and beloved by Philadelphians. But he has also helped Philadelphia get the Pope and now the 2016 DNC. Maybe it’s time to join the Nutter self-celebrations.
“Motherlover,” Lonely Island feat. Justin Timberlake
Ronnie Polaneczky of the Daily News finally figured out how to crack Comcast’s crappy customer service code: Call the CEO’s mom. He did that on behalf of a local couple and their problem got fixed the next day.
“Love Train,” O’Jays
The happiest moment in the history of the El happened last Saturday when a gay couple got married aboard a train Sunday as part of the Mural Arts love train. Happy Valentine’s Day!
