City Cast Philly

City Cast Philly

🗞️ Can Eagles merch save newsstands?

November 27, 2023

Good morning! Hope you had a relaxing holiday break. Let’s get back to it, shall we? 💪

What's CITY Talking About?

Philly’s “Death-positive” Movement

A fledgling group of volunteers wants to make “deathcare” more accessible for Philadelphians who can’t afford the costs of preparing their deceased loved ones for burial. Recently, the volunteers offered a demonstration on how to wrap a body in a burial shroud, a service they hope to one day provide free of charge. They’re part of a growing “death-positive” movement in Philly that wants to normalize the end of life. [Inquirer]

Surge in Child Labor Complaints

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry has received a surge of reports of alleged child labor violations this year. In Philadelphia, businesses like Honeygrow and Five Below that employ teenage workers have been cited for illegally having them work too many hours, not providing breaks, and hiring kids without work permits. For some teens, poverty is driving a need to work long hours. [Billy Penn]

Judge Says Undated Ballots Still Count

A federal district court judge has ruled that mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania should not be disqualified simply because the date was not filled in. But Republicans hold that state law requires the ballots not be counted, and the case is expected to be appealed and ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Since more Democrats vote by mail, the outcome of the case has implications for the 2024 presidential election. [NPR]

Philly Chatter

Earlier this month, we shared a list of essential dive bars in the city. You let us know we missed some key hangouts where you like to pull up a barstool and grab a cheap pint of beer. Hey Philly readers Mark O., Henry K., and Kenny W. submitted the following three additional dive bars for your consideration:

🍺 Dirty Frank’s

Small, chockablock with art and seasonal decorations, and cash-only, Dirty Frank’s is a great place to wedge yourself and a few friends into a wooden booth to unwind over a pitcher of beer.

Corner 13th and Pine Streets

🍸 McCusker’s Tavern

This bar is like stepping into a "1970s South Philly rowhouse." It’s a delight.

Corner 17th and Shunk Streets

🥃 Cherry Street Tavern

This gem in Logan Square is known for their roast beef sandwiches.

Corner 22nd and Cherry Streets

All three definitely hit the mark for cheap, friendly and down-to-earth vibes – but McCusker's has my heart.

L'Angolo is a BYOB Italian joint at the corner of Porter and Rosewood. (Courtesy of Hey Philly reader Sue C.)

If you’re in the mood for something a liiiiitle more upscale, Hey Philly reader Sue C. recently sent us this review of L’Angolo Ristorante in South Philly:

“This tiny corner restaurant, with about eight tables, was one of the best meals I’ve eaten in years (and that’s saying something). Portion sizes are huge, the ingredients are incredibly fresh, and the service was impeccable! Staff makes you feel like you’re eating at home. BYOB too.”

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What To Do

🥃 Tour and Tasting at Carpenters' Hall | Tuesday | 4 p.m.

A guided tour of the historic building where the First Continental Congress convened, followed by a Scotch whiskey tasting. [$45, Old City]

🪴 Make a Pinch Pot Clay Planter | Wednesday | 6 p.m.

Learn an ancient pottery technique and make your own clay planter in this beginner-friendly ceramics class. [$25, Queen Village]

🎤 Comedy Open Mic Night | Thursday | 8:30 p.m.

Watch aspiring comedians perform stand-up at The Raven Lounge. [Free, Center City]

Today on City Cast

Can Eagles Merch Save Philly's Newsstands?

A lot has changed since this boy was captured slinging newspapers in Philly in the 1940s. (Photo by H. Armstrong Roberts/ClassicStock/Getty Images)

There are fewer than 100 newsstands left in Philly. Thanks to a bill recently signed by Mayor Jim Kenney, these old-school street kiosks — known for selling newspapers and cigarettes — are now allowed to expand their retail offerings. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Jordan Levy, general assignment reporter at Billy Penn, about whether adding flowers and sports apparel will be enough to help keep these businesses afloat.

It’s now officially the “most wonderful time of the year” ☃️ Have a great day!

— Joel Wolfram

Thanks to Laura Benshoff for editing the newsletter.

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