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Who’s running for Philly mayor? Declarations expected soon
It might seem far away — and there’s a different election happening first — but the 2023 Philadelphia mayoral race is heating up fast.
- At least one candidate is expected to declare this month, as soon as Council approves the budget. Two others confirmed to Billy Penn they’re “considering” a run. Most already have large campaign war chests.
Who’s on the list? Lizzy McLellan Ravitch details the field of contenders, which includes seven current city officials who’d have to resign to run.
Weigh in on what should happen to the Ben Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia is working on a plan to redesign the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which is unfriendly to pedestrians and lacking in street-level activations.
- Design Workshop was chosen to oversee the planning effort after an RFP process that started last March. The firm’s “nimbleness” and ability to incorporate feedback was what won it the nod, officials said.
Now that feedback process is starting. Fill out this survey to have a say in the early stages, or RSVP to an in-person discussion at The Barnes next week.
March On: The Fight for Pride
Podcast by Billy Penn reporter Michaela Winberg
Out now: Ep. 4: “Our Streets” | Next up: Ep. 5, June 23
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
- A new bill in the Pa. Senate could prohibit discussions on gender identity and sexual orientation in elementary schools. Republican legislators claim it’s not exactly like Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill because it has more exemptions to uphold student safety. [PhillyVoice/6ABC]
- Looking to clinch a new Philly rowhome? According to a new Redfin report, you’ll need to earn 17.1% more than you did last year to secure a mortgage, but wages aren’t rising at anywhere near the same rate. [Redfin/Axios]
- Hoode is a nationally-known Fishtown tattoo artist who specializes in “blackouts,” which are reminiscent of ancient traditions — and some criticize as appropriation. [@JasonNark/Inquirer$]
- Mervant Vera, the spellbinding magician rapper who wowed crowds on “America’s Got Talent,” is from Philly. [@wooder_ice/ET]
- The new Steven Starr-Aramark partnership is bringing revamped food concepts to the Wells Fargo Center, apparently with life-size holograms of local sports icons. [What Now/Philly Mag$]
- 6,200 submissions, three winners: Herr’s released its “Flavored By Philly” limited-edition chips: “Wiz Wit,” “Long Hots & Sharp Provolone,” and “215 Special Sauce” — salt, pepper, ketchup, hot sauce. [6ABC]
MAYOR WATCH
New Superintendent Tony Watlington is ready to lead Philly schools, and Mayor Kenney helps welcome him to the position (9 a.m.). Pre-K is next on Kenney’s list, with a stop in Grays Ferry at a “move-up” ceremony for kids in the city’s free programs (10:15 a.m.).
Then it’s time for soccer — and the mayor’s schedule gives a big hint FIFA will choose Philly as one of 10 U.S. host cities for the FIFA World Cup. Kenney first attends the Love Park screening of the announcement (5 p.m.), then heads back to City Hall for another press conference about it (7 p.m.).
ON THE CALENDAR
? BP Quizzo is in Chestnut Hill this month! Test your local knowledge and join us at the top of cobblestoned Germantown Avenue as we take over Tavern on the Hill for a night of Philly trivia with happy hour specials and prizes. Free with RSVP. (6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 21)
? The Philadelphia Thing’s Trade School festival opens this week, and this time around they’re exchanging art and artists with Detroit, the Motor City. Opening night showings include interactive theater and short film screenings, and you get unlimited access to all performances through a $100 festival pass. (Times vary, Thursday to Sunday, June 16-25)
♟️ Grab your bingo boards and head over to the Christ Church Neighborhood House for Drag Queen bingo hosted by popular Philly queens Vinchelle and Ophelia Bawdy. Tickets range from $20 – $30 with drinks included. ( 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 17)
