Keep on swimming in Fishtown (Instagram/@jtaflinphotography)

Parker puts out a call for Philadelphians to get involved

Building on themes of collaboration in her victory speech, Mayor-elect Parker yesterday hosted a joint press conference with Mayor Kenney to announce members of her transition team. She also unveiled a website, Transition2023.org, where anyone can apply to be part of the work or submit an idea or request.

Parker’s next big move is likely to be choosing a police commissioner. An announcement will come before Thanksgiving, she said, and it’ll be someone who doesn’t “[need] a GPS to get to 52nd and Market.”

Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker prepares to present her transition team at City Hall. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

Royal Tavern reopens with its famous burger and vibes intact

After 43 months, Royal Tavern is back. The South Philadelphia bar and restaurant reopened yesterday, returning a cozy neighborhood vibe to the triangular intersection of 7th and Carpenter at East Passyunk. Chef Nic Macri is running the kitchen, and he’s updated the menu — with the exception of one key item. “We are, of course, keeping our burger.”

Ali Mohsen has details on the food, drink, and what else to expect. Continue reading…

Cocktails on the bar at Royal Tavern. The interior has a few new touches, but remains a cozy neighborhood hangout. (Rachel Del Sordo)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• After two years of protests and lawsuits to “Save the UC Townhomes,” demolition of the federally subsidized apartment complex in West Philly is slated to begin before the year ends. [Billy Penn/WHYY’s PlanPhilly]

• Three years of construction and detours end today when the I-95 ramp from the Betsy Ross Bridge reopens, relieving local traffic and pleasing commuters who no longer have to take a winding path through Bridesburg and Port Richmond. [Billy Penn]

• The Made in Philadelphia holiday market opens today in Dilworth Park, a week earlier than previous years. More than 40 local vendors offer crafts, arts, apparel, and other gifts outside City Hall. [Made in Phila/6ABC]

• For the 7th year, Red Owl Tavern is back with the Month of 1,000 Pies, a fundraiser for Philabundance. This year’s flavors are coconut custard and sweet potato. [Billy Penn]

• Local author Eric Smith’s latest young adult novel, “With or Without You,” centers two teens from rival South Philly cheesesteak trucks. [Billy Penn]

• With the Phillies’ decision to keep Bryce Harper at first base, it’s time to say a sad farewell to Rhys Hoskins. [Billy Penn] 

MAYOR WATCH

Mayor Kenney joins sculptor Branly Cadet at the Octavius V. Catto Memorial outside City Hall to unveil two plaques finalizing the gift of the statue to the city (3 p.m.).

ON THE CALENDAR

🍻 Billy Penn event! BP Quizzo lands in Germantown at Attic Brewing Co. for Philly news and history trivia, with happy hour specials and prizes. Free with RSVP. Join us! (6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16)

🎞️ A film about actor Gene Wilder kicks off the 43rd Annual Philadelphia Jewish Film + Media Fall Fest in Center City. Tickets are $20. (7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11)

🎶 Broadway babies, enjoy a musical tribute to Tony-winning composer Stephen Schwartz featuring an all-star cast of performers. Tickets start at $50 and all proceeds support LGBTQ healthcare at Philly’s Mazzoni Center. (7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13) 

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