Construction milestone hit at The Bellwether District
Hilco Redevelopment Partners has commenced installation of the first concrete panels at The Bellwether District, marking a key milestone in vertical construction of the site’s expansive development. The first phase of development will include two buildings, totaling approximately 1 million square feet.
Structural steel construction of a 325,659-square-foot building will start in late April and is expected to be the first to be completed by the end of 2024.
“The entire HRP team is excited to see the vision of The Bellwether District transforming into reality,” said HRP CEO Roberto Perez. “This is a generational opportunity for the city that started it all, and we are proud to contribute to Philadelphia’s ongoing development.”
Plans are also underway to commence construction on a second structure, a 727,272-square-foot Class A industrial building currently in its final permitting stages. With rough grading of the building pad nearing completion, vertical construction is expected to begin in the middle of 2024.
In addition to vertical construction, HRP will begin work on significant infrastructure improvements to provide unprecedented access to the The Bellwether District and surrounding transportation assets, including PhilaPort and Philadelphia International Airport. These ongoing enhancements will strengthen access to surrounding infrastructure, creating new opportunity for an array of industries and users.
“We are building The Bellwether District to become an ecosystem for businesses to call home, innovate, grow and create jobs,” said HRP Chief Investment Officer Andrew Chused. “Bringing industry and opportunity to South and Southwest Philadelphia in a cleaner and more sustainable manner benefits our neighbors, the city and the region, and HRP is thrilled to be a part of that mission.”
City Council shows support for Aramark workers
City Council members joined Aramark food service workers at Wells Fargo Center, represented by Unite Here Local 274, Philadelphia’s food service workers’ union. They unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Council President Kenyatta Johnson urging Aramark, a multinational corporation headquartered in Philadelphia, to negotiate a fair contract with the union, ensuring family-sustaining wage increases and access to healthcare.
On April 9, the union held a one-day strike of Aramark’s operations at the Wells Fargo Center. Many Aramark employees work year-round at the South Philadelphia Stadium Sports Complex. Aramark employees at the Well Fargo Center are demanding that these jobs be like other full-time, year-round jobs that provide benefits like healthcare and family-sustaining wages.
“I support the food service workers at the Philadelphia Sports Complex and I urge Aramark to negotiate fair and equitable contracts that provide these workers with a standard minimum wage and healthcare coverage,” Johnson said. “Hard-working Philadelphians are entitled to fair, family-sustaining wages and access to healthcare, paid leave and other benefits for full-time work, and ensuring fair pay and access to benefits for working families is a matter of basic justice.”
City Council passes resolution to spur solar bill
City Council unanimously approved a resolution urging the state legislature to pass Solar for Schools, a bill introduced by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler.
Solar for Schools would create a grant program using a combination of state money and federal Inflation Reduction Act funds to help Pennsylvania public schools install solar panels. The bill is touted by education, labor, environmental and faith-based organizations thanks to its potential to save schools money on high energy costs, create union jobs and boost Pennsylvania’s production of renewable energy.
“I was thrilled to introduce a resolution in City Council calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to adopt state Rep. Elizabeth Fielder’s Solar for Schools Act,” said Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson. “Not only is this legislation a win for the education and environmental communities, but it would be a victory for skilled labor as well. We have a unique opportunity to provide Pennsylvanians, especially our young people, with a pathway to a family-sustaining and supporting career opportunity. I am hopeful that the Pennsylvania Senate will pass this legislation and help us achieve these goals and much more.”
Principal Dan Peou of Furness High School attended the news conference with a 12th-grade student. With officials from the School District of Philadelphia and Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration, Fiedler recently toured the school’s roof to explore a potential location for solar panels.
“This investment would greatly benefit the School District of Philadelphia,” said Peou. “Solar for Schools would give schools like mine the opportunity to save valuable resources and reduce some of the burden of historic underfunding.”
Solar for Schools passed in the state House with strong bipartisan support in June and now awaits a vote in the state Senate. The bill was recently included in an 11-bill package introduced by the PA House Blue-Green Caucus, chaired by Fiedler, which has a stated mission of advancing legislation uniting labor and environmental interests.
“Today’s vote signifies a real commitment from elected representatives to fight for working people and for the environment — from Philadelphia to Harrisburg,” Fiedler said. “I’m grateful to my friends in City Hall for their support of Solar for Schools, and I look forward to making our vision for a better planet, better schools and better jobs a reality.”
Mother Bethel, Tindley Temple receive grant money
Two South Philly churches are among eight recipients to receive $1 million in grants.
Partners for Sacred Places and the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia announced that the Philadelphia Fund for Black Sacred Places is awarding $1 million in grants to eight black-led churches in Philadelphia, which includes Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal and Tindley Temple United Methodist. The grants for capital projects – plus support to more open their spaces to the public – will assist the churches in preserving their historic architecture while expanding their capacity to serve their neighborhoods.
In addition to preservation, the grants will facilitate property assessments by architects to address needs beyond immediate repairs, ensuring the buildings can continue to meet community needs. Churches will undergo a process that will allow them to receive planning and capital funding to cover various expenses from structural renovations to program development.
“Black churches anchor their communities,” said the Rev. Betsy Ivey, Director of PFBSP. “They are a stabilizing presence that deserve this recognition and assistance to bring their communities back together. This funding will assist these churches with renovations, training and technical assistance while enabling them to open their doors even wider to the public.”
Blue-Green legislative agenda announced
Labor and environmental advocates from across Pennsylvania joined members of the state House of Representatives’ Blue-Green Caucus to announce a joint legislative agenda to combat climate change while creating good-paying union jobs.
The 11-bill package would boost clean energy production, advance key conservation goals and create union jobs in growing clean-energy fields like weatherization and the solar energy industry. Bills in the package would also lower energy costs for consumers, increase funding for public transit and protect Pennsylvania families and union workers from attempts to privatize water and wastewater systems.
The 55 member Blue-Green Caucus, led by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, has been convening labor and environmental leaders to break down imposed barriers that often polarize the groups and instead tapping into their shared belief that strong environmental policies must go hand-in-hand with labor protections.
“Everyone, from electricians to clean-air advocates, wants the same thing: a better future for their kids,” said Fiedler. “It’s time to challenge the narrative that labor and environmental interests are at odds. This package of nearly a dozen bills proves we can unite around a vision for a blue-green future.”
The 11-bill package positions Pennsylvania to take advantage of President Biden’s infrastructure and climate laws, which are investing more than $370 billion to create union jobs while boosting clean energy and tackling “environmental justice” issues.
“The IBEW stands ready to advance the legislation package set forth by the Blue-Green Caucus. This is a chance to create employment opportunities and preserve the environment at the same time,” said Kris Anderson, a representative of the IBEW Third District. “As we embark on what the future of energy will look like in PA, the IBEW is prepared to embrace these exciting new opportunities to put our members to work while expanding our ranks.”
Prolific Gun Offender Unit created by DA’s office
District Attorney Larry Krasner announced the launch of a new prosecution unit at the District Attorney’s Office that will focus on adults and juveniles who repeatedly and illegally possess firearms in the city.
The DAO’s Prolific Gun Offenders Unit will prosecute the following gun offenses: Felon in Possession of a Firearm; Straw Purchases; Ghost Guns, Juveniles in Possession of Firearms; and individuals who are arrested and charged with the manufacturing and distribution of polymer firearms, also known as “ghost guns.” The DAO’s Prolific Gun Offenders Unit will also utilize criminal intelligence gathering in collaboration with law enforcement and the Gun Violence Task Force to ascertain whether those arrested are actively involved with street groups who commit violence in Philadelphia.
Assistant District Attorneys assigned to the DAO’s Prolific Gun Offenders Unit will also handle bail revocation hearings and will work closely with the DAO’s Charging Unit to appeal low cash bail rulings by Philadelphia Bail Commissioners for those who pose a danger to the community.
“I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to our partners in Philadelphia City Council for securing the funding to make this new initiative a reality,” Krasner said. “I’m confident that under the leadership of Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Palmer, the Prolific Gun Offender Unit will vigorously and appropriately prosecute and convict the relatively small number of people who pose a significant threat to public safety in our city.”
Waxman wants unit at correctional institution a permanent fixture statewide
State Rep. Ben Waxman is calling for the “Scandinavian Unit” at SCI Chester to be used permanently at correctional institutions across Pennsylvania.
The Scandinavian Unit is modeled after prisons in Scandinavia, where the core values are safety, transparency and innovation, with a focus on normality and reintegration into the community upon release.
“It’s time for a shift in how we handle corrections in PA. The Scandinavian Unit at SCI Chester isn’t just a program, it’s a new horizon in rehabilitation and human rights,” Waxman said. “This model focuses on transformative care, not just incarceration. In the next state budget, I will strongly advocate for us to include funding that would make the Scandinavian Unit a permanent fixture in our state’s corrections system.”
This unit is the result of a multiyear partnership with the Norwegian Correctional Service, the Swedish Prison and Probation Service, and the Danish Prison and Probation Service. In 2019, state Department of Corrections employees traveled to Norway, Sweden and Denmark to see for themselves how Scandinavian countries approach incarceration.
The unit provides a quiet environment where residents live in single-person cells with a shared kitchen surrounded by outdoor green space and plants.
Waxman has written a letter to the Department of Corrections calling for funding that would make this unit a permanent fixture within Pennsylvania’s correctional system.
Arts festival at Glencairn
The historic Glencairn Museum, 1001 Cathedral Road in Bryn Athyn, will welcome visitors to the castle for a “Sacred Arts Festival” on Sunday, April 28, from 1-5 p.m. The festival will feature an exploration of religious artistry, featuring live demonstrations by skilled artisans and a temporary exhibition, “Easter Eggs: Symbols of Rebirth and Renewal.” Visitors can immerse themselves in the connection between art and spirituality as demonstrators share their skills across various mediums like metal, glass, sand, stone, eggs, wood and ink.
The festival offers an opportunity to appreciate artistic expressions from a variety of faith traditions, including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and indigenous practices. In addition to learning from the demonstrators, visitors can enjoy self-guided exploration in the galleries (only offered twice a year), a visit to the Tower and activities for kids and families.
Admission to the Sacred Arts Festival is $12 for adults; $10 for seniors and students; and free for all Museum members and children 4 and under. ••
House GOP addresses illegals
State House Republicans have introduced legislation to combat illegal immigration in Pennsylvania in response to the Biden administration’s continued failure to secure the southern border. The legislation includes bills urging Congress and the federal government to ban flights carrying illegals into the country; requiring local cooperation with ICE when an illegal squatter is identified; and banning sanctuary municipalities. Rep. Martina White has introduced legislation to require $1 million minimum bail for assaulting a law enforcement officer, which was proposed in response to the attack on New York Police Department officers by a gang of illegal immigrants earlier this year.
“My legislation to set a minimum $1 million bail for assaulting a police officer sends a clear message: Pennsylvania stands firmly against violence toward those who protect and serve our communities,” she said. “We are committed to making sure those who would harm our officers, including illegal immigrants, will face serious consequences for their actions.” ••
Settlement Music to celebrate
Settlement Music School will hold its 116th anniversary gala on May 4 at 6:30 p.m. at 2300 Arena, 2300 S. Swanson St. The theme is Art Sparks. There will be music, food, dancing to the band Snacktime and a celebration of the work of the Kardon Center for Arts Therapy.
To donate, go to settlementmusic.org/give-now/annual-gala/
To enter the raffle and auction, visit settlementmusic.org/raffle ••
Goretti/Neumann reunion
The Millay Club Alumni Association is holding an all-class reunion for graduates of St. Maria Goretti, South Catholic, Bishop Neumann, St. John Neumann and Neumann-Goretti on Sunday, April 28, from 1-5 p.m. at Chickie’s & Pete’s, 1526 Packer Ave.
Guests must be 21 or older.
The cost is $40 and includes a buffet, DJ and dancing. There will be a cash bar. Go to millayclub.org.
Entertainment at Parx
Parx Casino is offering the following upcoming entertainment:
April 27: Andrew Dice Clay
May 11: Tracy Morgan
May 17: Femmes of Rock
May 18: Sebastian Bach
May 31: Reik
June 1: Joss Stone
June 14: Almost Queen, a tribute to Queen
June 21: Corinne Bailey Rae
July 13: Clay Walker
Aug. 3: Tyler Henry, The Hollywood Medium
Aug. 10: Dylan Scott
Sept. 7: Australian Pink Floyd
Nov. 21: Aaron Lewis
Nov. 23: Steve Trevino ••
See performance of Anything Goes
The Star Players, of the city Department of Parks and Recreation, will present Cole Porter’s Anything Goes on May 31 and June 1-2 at 7 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, at 7 Lock St. in Manayunk. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Group rates are available. Tickets are available on Venmo @TheStarplayers or at the Holmesburg Recreation Center, 4500 Rhawn St. For more information, call director Bill Arthur at 215-685-8714, like the group’s Facebook page, follow the group on Twitter @starplayersPPR or email Starplayers2013@gmail.com. ••
Bus trip to Lancaster County
St. William Travel is planning a trip to Lancaster County on June 20. There will be a Magic & Wonder Theater show, buffet lunch at Shady Maple, round trip by motorcoach, with all taxes and gratuities included. The costs $120. Bus departs from Gloria Dei Estates, 1304 Rhawn St., at 9:15 a.m. and returns 6:15 p.m. Check or money order payable to St. William Travel can be sent c/o 206 Benner St., Philadelphia, PA 19111. Call 215-745-7199. ••
VFW looking for members
Bustleton-Somerton/CTR1 Michael J. Strange VFW Post 6617 meets on the third Wednesday of every month at American Legion Post 810, 9151 Old Newtown Road.
Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.
If you are a military veteran who served in a designated combat zone, you are eligible to join the VFW.
Call Commander Israel Wolmark at 215-725-0630 if you would like to join the post. ••
Trip to Northern Europe
The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation is presenting a Northern Europe: Iceland, Norway, Netherlands, Belgium and London cruise, July 25 to Aug. 4, aboard the new “Norwegian Prima.”
Rates per person are $6,261 and $6,495, which include roundtrip airfare from Philadelphia.
Deposit of $350 per person double occupancy is required when booking.
Call 215-788-9408. ••
Charity fashion show
The Marlyn Chakov Fein Chapter, Fox Chase Cancer Center is running a fashion show, Couture For The Cure, on Sunday, May 5, at Spring Mill Manor, 171 Jacksonville Road, Ivyland. The cost is $68 and includes full-course lunch and fashion show. There will be raffles, boutiques and jewelry and craft vendors. BOC Productions will present Fashions from Marlene’s of Collingswood, New Jersey. Doors open at 10 a.m. for shopping. Lunch will start at 12:30 p.m. Call Lorraine at 610-277-3631 for tickets. The event supports cancer research and compassionate patient care at Fox Chase Cancer Center. ••
Trip to Glencairn
The Sisterhood of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim will visit Glencairn Museum, in Bryn Athyn, on Wednesday, May 1, at 10:15 a.m. There will be a video and tour. The cost is $18, payable to CSS Sisterhood and mailed to 9768 Verree Road, Philadelphia, PA 19115. Include your name, email address and phone number. ••
Ukrainian Folk Festival in August
The Ukrainian Folk Festival will take place on Sunday, Aug. 25, from noon to 8 p.m., at the Ukrainian American Sport Center — Tryzub, County Line and Lower State roads, Horsham.
There will be Ukrainian folk art, music, dance, crafts and historical reenactments, a variety of food and refreshments and a vendors grove. Admission is $15, and a portion will be donated to relief of war victims in Ukraine. Kids under 15 will be admitted free. Parking is free. Call 267-664-3857, email info@tryzub.org or visit www.tryzub.org. ••
Support Michael Strange Foundation
The public is invited to attend two events held by the Michael Strange Foundation. On June 15, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., at American Legion Post, 9151 Old Newtown Road, there will be a live band, food and music. On June 16, from noon to 4 p.m., at the Parx horse racing track, third floor, Gold Star families will be on hand. Requested donations for each event are $40 per person. U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class Michael Strange, a Wissinoming native and 2004 North Catholic graduate, died in 2011 of wounds caused when the CH-47 Chinook helicopter he was aboard crashed in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. He was 25. ••
