Philadelphia got to feel actual spring this week, with Indego testing out its bike share system on Thursday, the announcement of a pop-up pool and Independence Beer Garden listing late April as the time it would open for the season. Oh — and mayoral candidate Jim Kenney explained why he blocks people on Twitter while a bunch of the other candidates yelled at each other. Billy Penn presents these new stories and more, paired with music, to recount the week’s top events in the #BillyPennPlaylist.
“Feel So Good,” Mase
At a mayoral forum that got pretty heated, Billy Penn asked mayoral candidate Jim Kenney the important question of why he blocks people on Twitter and how he could contain those impulses if he’s elected mayor. His response: “It’s such a liberating feeling to go, bye.”
“Blowin’ in the Wind,” Bob Dylan
How many times must a man buy a bankrupt casino before you can call it a sale? Revel is maybe the closest it’s ever been to getting sold, with a bankruptcy judge approving an $82 million sale to Glenn Straub, the guy who’s been trying to buy it since late last summer. If everything gets ironed out by Tuesday, Revel should be in Straub’s hands.
“Take A Little Ride,” Jason Aldean
Philly’s Indego bike share installed its first station, and riders were able to test it out during Thursday’s lunch hour. The whole system should be ready to go on April 23.
“The Middle,” Jimmy Eat World
We’re finally getting water taxis. It just takes some time. Twelve years and $500,000 later, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation said this week water taxis should be ready for the Delaware this summer.
“Too Much To Handle,” Great Good Fine OK
It’s not enough for the Phillies to bore us to death with what will more than likely be a bad baseball team. Now they’re kicking it up another notch by offering liquor and a 9-patty burger at their games.
“Don’t Take Your Guns to Town,” Johnny Cash
Which mayoral candidates have gun permits? The Daily News found that Jim Kenney used to carry a gun in the 90s, Lynne Abraham in the 60s and that Tony Williams supported “Stand Your Ground” legislation.
“My Adidas,” Run DMC
The #LOLSixers visited the White House on Tuesday. They looked spiffy, wearing suits, especially Joel Embiid. He rocked a pair of sneakers with his outfit. Give him somewhat of a break, though. They probably cost more than any clothing item you own.
“In the Garage,” Weezer
Some people are having problems with the addition of garages and modern townhomes to Old City. They think it’s ruining the neighborhood.
“Nightswimming,” R.E.M.
We’re getting a pop-up pool this summer! (Disclaimer: No word if it will be open at night)
“One (Blake’s Got a New Face),” Vampire Weekend
Billy Penn gave the mayoral candidates copies of them as emoji, and Tony Williams placed it in front of him during a forum on Monday.