2nd District Democrat Candidate Wants to Change Electoral College

[February 13, 2020 – Longport, New Jersey] –

In an article published yesterday in the NJ Globe, entitled, “

Democrats Who Signed No-Line Pledge Still Seeking Line

,” David Wildstein reported on the contradiction that four of the five candidates for Congress in New Jersey\’s second congressional district have signed a promise to “end the county line,” yet have continued to seek the Atlantic County Democratic line at the same time.

Brigid Callahan Harrison

The story stated that the pledge, did not “appear to have any teeth” and specifically sited candidate Amy Kennedy for seeking and winning the endorsement of the Atlantic City Democratic organization, and Ashley Bennett, who previously ran on the line for freeholder three years ago, with both also currently pursuing votes to obtain the line at Atlantic County Convention on March 8.

Brigid Callahan Harrison, the only candidate who did not sign the pledge, issued today the following detailed policy statement on

Electoral Reform and Clear Election Policy

The right of the people to freely and fairly decide who will represent their interests is the foundation upon which our democracy rests. But Washington DC’s culture of corruption is eating away at that foundation, and as a member of Congress from New Jersey’s second congressional district, I will prioritize several measures that will take power away from the rich and well-connected and return it to where it belongs – in the hands of the people.

I recently met with End Citizens United, a group of over 4 million members who champion electoral reform. During my meeting with them, I discussed my vision for electoral reform and clean elections. My reform agenda includes the following:

End

Citizens United

Chief among the ways we can return some power to the people is amending our constitution to overturn

Citizens United,

which essentially granted corporations and other monied interests the same rights as citizens. I believe that Congress and the states must work to amend the constitution by ratifying the Democracy for All Amendment, which grants Congress and the States the power to regulate and set reasonable limits on the raising and spending of money by candidates and others to influence elections.

Strengthen the Federal Election Commission

Another key aspect of keeping elections clean is through supporting the Federal Election Commission, the agency charged with enforcing our nation’s campaign finance laws. The FEC has essentially been stripped of its authority because half of the seats on the board remain unfilled during the Trump administration, rendering the board unable to function without a quorum. Any electoral reforms should statutorily mandate that, if vacancies on the FEC remain unfilled by a presidential administration for longer than 90 days, the presidential appointment is forfeited and the chair of the House Ethics Committee is empowered to appoint FEC Board members. I support increasing the ability of the FEC to enforce laws already on the books by providing the FEC with the resources it has been denied.

I will work to pass the Restoring Integrity to America’s Elections Act, which will strengthen the FEC’s ability to enforce current campaign finance laws.

Get Foreign Money Out of US Elections

I resolve to help keep foreign money out of US elections by supporting the Get Foreign Money Out of US Elections Act, which restricts the ability of foreign corporations to spend money in US election, and the DISCLOSE Act, which prohibits foreign interests from creating dark money organizations or shell corporations in order to influence US elections.

Greater Transparency

I would advocate for passage of the Keeping Our Campaigns Honest (KOCH) Act which requires that ads placed by dark money organizations must disclose their largest donors.

In Congress, I will support the Honest Ads Act, which would set the same standard for online political advertising as is currently required for television and radios ads.

We must make sure that our democracy remains in the people’s hands is by ensuring that the wealthy aren’t able to buy our democracy. We need to end the culture of corruption in Washington because for too long, the rich and well-connected have had disproportionate influence in our elections. That reality is in part responsible for the increasing anger and frustration that many Americans rightfully feel toward our government.

NJ American Water Plans Infrastructure Work in Beverly

CAMDEN CITY, N.J. – FEB. 12, 2020 –

New Jersey American Water

will replace approximately 5,100 feet of aging water main in Beverly beginning next week. The project also includes replacing five fire hydrants and 114 utility-owned service lines along the pipeline route. The company will upgrade the aging water lines, installed as far back as the 1930s and as small as four inches in diameter, with new, larger ductile iron main along the following streets:

Laurel Street

from Front Street to Railroad Avenue

Putnam Street

from Laurel Street to Cooper Street

Spruce Street

from Putnam Street to Railroad Avenue

Pine Street

from Laurel Street and Spruce Street

This $800,000 investment will continue to advance water service reliability and increase water flows for household consumption and fire protection in this community. This improvement is part of New Jersey American Water’s multimillion-dollar initiative to accelerate the

renewal of water infrastructure

that has reached the end of its useful life in more than 100 communities across the state.

New Jersey American Water’s local, qualified contractor, Pioneer Pipe Contractors, Inc., will begin work on or about Feb. 17 and expects to finish by the end of April, weather permitting. Work hours will be from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Work outside of these hours is not expected unless required to maintain project schedule. Final street restorations will be completed in the summer of 2020.

For the public’s and workers’ safety, traffic restrictions and/or alternating traffic patterns are likely to occur during work hours. All emergency vehicles and local traffic will be allowed access during construction. New Jersey American Water values the safety of its workers and advises drivers and pedestrians to take caution in the vicinity of work sites.

About New Jersey American Water

New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.7 million people. For more information, visit

www.newjerseyamwater.com

and follow New Jersey American Water on

Twitter

and

Facebook

About American Water

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,100 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to more than 14 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit

amwater.com

Heart + Paw Opens First Center City Location

Callowhill and Broad is the First of Several New Heart + Paw Locations Opening in 2020

PHILADELPHIA, PA (February 2020)

– The future of pet care is coming to Center City Philadelphia! Pet destination

Heart + Paw

is coming to the city

on Saturday, February 29.

Launching on the bustling intersection of

Callowhill and Broad

, this one-of-a-kind integrated pet care center is reimagining the future of pet care by offering veterinary care, grooming and daycare

all in one low-stress environment

for your four legged family member. They consider themselves partners in pet parenthood, and prove this by offering personalized care plans to each pet’s unique health needs.

A major distinguishing factor of Heart + Paw is that their centers empower

local creatives and entrepreneurs through their ‘Local at Scale’ space and retail strategy.

This comes to life in their centers through custom fixtures, furniture and retail. Heart + Paw is dedicated to sustainability both in avoiding extensive global shipping and sustaining businesses in their backyard in the wake of globalization.

Heart + Paw chose this neighborhood for it’s unique community and density of pet-obsessed parents. Proudly Philadelphian, the brand is excited to be headquartered in a region with one of the largest number of pet owners per capita. Heart + Paw’s most recent location in Cherry Hill already has a strong following of loyal pets and parents, and they are set to open two more locations in

East Market (launching 3/14) and Marlton, NJ later in 2020

“At Heart + Paw, we’ve re-imagined the future of pet care. We are working to create a destination experience for healthier, happier pets. Heart + Paw has brought the best of everything a pet needs under one roof,” says

Vincent Bradley, Co-Founder and CEO of Heart + Paw.

Heart + Paw offers a unique service experience to its clients, both two and four legged. The space itself was designed with the latest research on low-stress handling, bringing function and design together in an unprecedented environment. For cats, Heart + Paw offers a feline-only waiting room and a low stress exam room including tailored cat exam shelves designed by their Chief Veterinary Officer. For dogs, elements like the walk-on scale and custom floor exam mats reduce the stress of veterinary visits. Digitally enabled touchpoints like a mobile app and texting services with the veterinarian make the best pet care conveniently accessible. The courtyard is a welcoming environment with coffee and wifi where clients can watch dogs play in daycare, observe grooms in action in the pet spa, shop for curated local retail or attend educational pet events.

The Callowhill

Grand Opening

celebration is set for

Saturday, February 29. The day will begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. along with pet-friendly “green” carpet photo ops.

The public (and their pets) are welcome to join in on the fun and to explore what this cutting edge pet care center has to offer. To celebrate, Heart + Paw is offering a free first vet exam, 50% off a grooming service, and 10 consecutive days of daycare FREE (and an additional 15% off daycare packages) if you book on or before the Grand Opening.

Kratom for Pain Relief

olive-wolverine-471793.hostingersite.com (February 13, 2020)–It is unfortunate that some of us have encountered accidents at some point in our lives. In some cases, we are blessed enough for the accident to not inflict any major injury. Sometimes, the injury is incessant enough to linger for longer than anyone would want it to be. Medications, too, seem to cease to

credit unsplash.com

provide any evident relief.

One feels utterly hopeless when even medical science has nothing to offer for a problem so troublesome. But, nature has a remedy for every crisis mankind faces. Its vast storehouse of herbs and shrubs are the answer to possibly every physical malady human faces. One such herb is Kratom. Kratom, or Mitragyna Speciosa, as it is called in the scientific community, is a native plant predominant in Thailand. It has been used for its medical applications since the nineteenth century. Kratom works very efficiently for pain relief. A study conducted on 10,000 Americans concluded that a staggering 68% of them used Kratom for self-treatment of pain. Here, we explain the pain-relieving properties and a bit about the

best Kratom for pain relief

. Read on!

The high concentration of Alkaloids

Humans experience pain due to the presence of pain receptors that travel to the brain. Kratom has a naturally high concentration of alkaloids. These alkaloids dull the pain receptors which results in an evident decrease in the pain a person is experiencing. Thus, no matter how old the pain is, kratom shows its effectiveness by attacking the very base of origin of pain. Maeng Da Kratom literally translates to \’pimp grade\’ kratom, which is suggestive of its very strong reserve of alkaloids.

Promotes the production of Serotonin and Dopamine

One of the curious effects of kratom is the enhanced production of Serotonin and Dopamine in the body. The initial of these neurotransmitters regulate a person\’s mood while the following elevates the feeling of happiness. This helps a great deal in chronic pain as it is often accompanied by persistent depression and anxiety. This also helps in coping with long lingering pain. Besides, it is always a good idea to be a bit more cheerful and happy.

Richness in Mitragynine

Kratom is known to be very rich in Mitragynine. Mitragynine is an alkaloid that has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This is very effective in muscle stiffness, and therefore, is a terrific pain reliever. This is additionally effective in diseases such as fibromyalgia, arthritis and rheumatism, etc. Mitragynine is also known to produce euphoric and stimulating effects on the human body.

Helpful in managing Diabetic neuropathic pain

A lesser-known impact of kratom is its ability to control blood sugar levels. Pain is one of the leading consequences of diabetic neuropathy. Controlling blood sugar levels can be a bit tricky for a person who cherishes food. An unstable diet can result in blood sugar spikes which can be dangerous in several cases. Research has proven that alkaloids in kratom help in regulating insulin production and thus, control the amount of glucose in the blood. This helps in preventing sudden rises or troughs that diabetics face.

Non-harmful pain-relieving perks of opioids

There are multiple medical conditions where opiates are used to counter pain afflicted in the body. But, there are multiple side effects of opiates such as addiction, dependence, respiratory dependence, etc. Kratom can be used to derive all the positive pain-relieving perks of opioids while ruling out the potential negative effects it can impart in a human. Kratom can be used without the suspicion of unaccounted ill effects.

Increases energy levels

Excessive pain can reduce the circulation of blood and energy levels as well. Kratom optimizes specific metabolic processes and rebuilds energy levels and increases circulation, fighting the sensation of pain. This is exceptionally useful for the physically active workers as the grievance of low circulation and energy levels is commonly heard from them.

Conclusion

Kratom has been traditionally used for assistance with pain and distress. It comes loaded with natural antioxidants. Whether it is acute or chronic pain, it can help in managing both of them. While using chemical painkillers may introduce a number of side effects, such as nausea, dependence, etc, kratom is a safe and effective way of confronting pain. Tried and tested, Kratom is one of the best alternatives at your disposal to counter and cope with any kind of pain or discomfort you wish to get rid of.

Third-quarter run lifts Rutgers-Camden women

MAHWAH, N.J (Feb. 12, 2020) – The Rutgers University-Camden women’s basketball team went on a 23-11 run in the third quarter, overcoming a one-point halftime deficit, and went on to defeat Ramapo College, 64-55, in a New Jersey Athletic Conference game here Wednesday night.

The Scarlet Raptors improve to 12-11 overall and 5-11 in the NJAC with their sixth straight win over the Roadrunners. Rutgers-Camden leads the all-time series, 42-22.

Ramapo falls to 9-14 overall and 3-13 in the NJAC with its fifth consecutive defeat.

Ramapo built a 20-17 lead after one quarter and stretched it to 24-17 before the Scarlet Raptors scored 11 of the last 16 points of the half, cutting their deficit to 29-28 at the break. Junior guard

Shane Holmes

scored 11 first-half points for Rutgers-Camden, while Ramapo was paced by 12 points from senior guard Samantha Rinaldi.

After Ramapo freshman guard Bridgett Cahill scored the first field goal of the third quarter, Raptor freshman guard

Taylor Martin

tied the game with a three-pointer. The teams traded leads until the game was tied at 34-34, when Rutgers-Camden took the lead for good on back-to-back three-pointers by senior guard

Fatimah Williams,

making it a 40-34 game.

After Ramapo cut the gap to 40-38, Martin and Holmes canned treys to give Rutgers-Camden a 46-38 lead. By the end of the third quarter, the Scarlet Raptors held a 51-40 lead and Ramapo never came closer than nine points the rest of the way. The Raptors led by as many as 18 points (62-44) late in the final quarter.

Williams finished with a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds, while adding three steals. All of those totals were game highs, while she added four assists.

Holmes netter 17 points and added a game-high five assists, while Martin finished with nine points. Freshman center

Kayla Newton

had five points and six rebounds.

Ramapo received 17 points from Rinaldi.

The Roadrunners held a 41-38 edge off the boards and had five fewer turnovers (18-13) than the Scarlet Raptors, but Rutgers-Camden shot 23-for-56 (41.1 percent) from the floor, including 12-for-26 (46.2) from three-point range. Williams and Holmes made four treys apiece, while Martin added three and freshman guard

Najee Seabrook

canned one on her only shot of the game.

Ramapo shot 21-for-61 (34.4) from the floor, including only 4-for-20 (20.0) from three-point range.

Rutgers-Camden returns to NJAC action on Saturday with a Senior Day NJAC home game against New Jersey City University. Prior to the 1 p.m. game, the Scarlet Raptors will honor Williams, their lone senior.

Derek Sprague Named 2020 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team Captain

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.

(Feb. 13, 2020)

–

The PGA of America has named PGA Past President Derek Sprague, PGA as the Captain of the 2020 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team. The United States will face Team Europe in the 12th Junior Ryder Cup at Blue Mound Golf and Country Club near Milwaukee, Sept. 21-22.

A 2019 inductee into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, Sprague is the General Manager of TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where he has served since 2017. He previously was the Managing Director of Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey and oversaw the club’s preparation for the 2017 Presidents Cup. For 27 years prior, Sprague was the General Manager and Director of Golf at Malone (New York) Golf Club.

In 2019, he captained the United States PGA Cup Team to a stirring comeback victory over Great Britain & Ireland.

Through Sprague’s leadership as PGA President from 2014-16, the PGA was instrumental in growing the game through player development and youth programs, such as PGA Jr. League and the Drive, Chip & Putt Championship. In addition, he co-chaired the Ryder Cup Task Force, which created a long-term blueprint for success in the event. Sprague also served the Association as PGA Honorary President, PGA Vice President and PGA Secretary.

The American team is vying for its seventh straight victory in the biennial competition with Europe, and the United States holds an overall record of 7-3-1 in the event. Among the Junior Ryder Cup alumni are major champions, PGA Tour players and LPGA Tour players including: Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Hunter Mahan, Tony Finau, Lexi Thompson, Alison Lee and Brittany Altomare of the United States; and Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia, Nicolas Colsaerts, Suzann Pettersen, Emily Pedersen and Carlota Ciganda of Europe. The European Team recently named 1999 U.S. Open Champion Paul Lawrie as its Captain.

The U.S. Team will feature six boys and six girls who are U.S. citizens and members of the high school graduating class of 2021, or younger. All potential players must compete in the 2020 Girls or Boys Junior PGA Championship to be eligible unless exceptional circumstances prevent the player from competing. There will be 10 players who qualify as exemptions and two Captain’s picks. The final U.S. Junior Ryder Cup Team will be announced by the PGA of America on Monday, Aug. 3, following the 45th Girls Junior PGA Championship.

“It is a great honor to represent the United States and captain a team of the finest junior golfers in our country,” said Sprague. “I look forward to our team competing against Europe’s top players, led by their distinguished Captain Paul Lawrie, in this special international event.”

The idea for the Junior Ryder Cup came about in 1995, when a team of Europeans, including Sergio Garcia, played an informal exhibition match against the Central New York PGA Section and area juniors. Two years later, the Junior Ryder Cup was formally introduced as an event, at Alcaidesa Links Golf Course, in Cadiz, Spain, and won by the United States, 7-5.

The United States captured the 2018 Junior Ryder Cup at Disneyland Paris 12 1/2 to 11 1/2 for its sixth consecutive victory.

For more information on the Junior Ryder Cup, visit

JuniorPGAChampionship.com/junior-ryder-cup

or contact Championship Manager Trenton Blundell, PGA at (561) 624-8490.

Letters to Aunt Hattie Event February 22

Burlington County Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson announced today that the Women’s Advisory Council is hosting an event to celebrate 100 years of women’s suffrage. The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote.

“The performance, Letters to Aunt Hattie, celebrates women’s suffrage as well as the contribution of African-American women to the movement,” said Freeholder Director Felicia Hopson. “This one-woman show is truly inspirational and allows us to reflect on and appreciate the legacies of women like Harriet Forten Purvis and Charlotte Forten Grimke who shaped the women’s rights movement.”

The event will be held on Saturday, February 22 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Burlington County Library Auditorium on Pioneer Blvd. in Westampton. It is free and open to the public.

The play is written and performed by Gilletta McGraw based on the real-life activists Harriet Forten Purvis and Charlotte Forten Grimke.

Charlotte Forten, a young, bright student, begins writing letters to her favorite aunt, Aunt Hattie. Through these letters, Charlotte shares her thoughts during her studies and learns about some of the monumental accomplishments of the women in her family. During their back-and-forth correspondence, Charlotte grows in her activism and dedication to serve the oppressed and fight for equality.

Additionally, Harriet Forten Purvis was an African-American abolitionist and first-generation suffragist. With her mother and sisters, she formed the first biracial women’s abolitionist group, the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society, which was the first biracial women’s abolitionist group. She also hosted anti-slavery events at her home and bravely ran an Underground Railroad station, and fought against Segregation.

“This is just one of the events that the Council will be hosting this year to celebrate 100 years of women’s suffrage,” concluded Freeholder Hopson. “We hope that everyone will join us. The anniversary gives us the opportunity to recognize those who have made a difference in history and empower younger generations.”

The Burlington County Women’s Advisory Council works to identify and address issues that affect women in Burlington County, raise public awareness of the special needs and roles of women, provide mentoring opportunities for women, and enhance the quality of life for all women. For more information follow the Council on Facebook at @BurlingtonCountyWomen or visit: http://co.burlington.nj.us/263/Womens-Advisory-Council

McWilliams sparks Ramapo past Rutgers-Camden men

MAHWAH, N.J. (Feb. 12, 2020) – The Ramapo College men’s basketball team received 26 points from senior center Rob McWilliams to lead four players in double figures as it pulled away from Rutgers University-Camden, 74-54, in a New Jersey Athletic

Conference game here Wednesday night.

Ramapo improves to 14-9 overall and 10-6 in the NJAC with its 10th straight win over Rutgers-Camden. The Roadrunners lead the all-time series, 53-15.

The Scarlet Raptors fall to 7-16 overall and 5-11 in the NJAC.

In a tight first half, the teams traded several leads and were tied at 24-24 when a three-pointer by McWilliams gave the Roadrunners the lead for good. Ramapo scored 15 of the last 22 points in the half on the way to a 39-31 advantage at the break. McWilliams had 16 points at the break to lead all scorers, while his teammate, senior guard Connor Romano, added 12. Rutgers-Camden received 14 first-half points from senior forward/center

Isaac Destin.

In the second half, the closest Rutgers-Camden came was six points (43-37 and 45-39) as Ramapo led by double digits most of the way. The final 20-point margin was the biggest of the game for the Roadrunners.

McWilliams shot 12-for-21 from the floor on his way to 26 points, while adding nine rebounds. Senior forward Jordan Zagadou added 14 point and four blocks for the Roadrunners, while Roman finished with 12 and sophomore center Jordan Battle added 10. Battle also had five assists to tie the Raptors’ junior guard

Arian Azemi

for game-high honors.

Junior guard Marquise Kindel had a game-high 17 rebounds for Ramapo, which dominated the boards, 45-24.

Destin notched 20 points and six rebounds for the Scarlet Raptors, shooting 9-for-10 from the floor. He also had six rebounds and two blocked shots.

Azemi added 10 points for Rutgers-Camden.

The Raptors shot 20-for-54 (37.0 percent) from the floor, while the Roadrunners went 30-for-59 (50.8).

Rutgers-Camden returns home for a 3 p.m. NJAC game Saturday against New Jersey City University. The Scarlet Raptors will celebrate Senior Day, when they honor Destin, their lone senior.

Starting March 1st The Sounds of the 80\’s at the Hard Rock in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, N.J. (February 12, 2020)

– Step out of your DeLorean time machine and into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City for

80’s LIVE,

a revved up high-energy live-on-stage concert production show taking you back on a fun nostalgic romp through the greatest hits of the 1980s.

The creators of

Motor City Live

and

Disco Live

invite you to see, hear and feel the decade

’

s most beloved and enduring music taking center stage Sundays at 7 p.m. in Sound Waves in Hard Rock Atlantic City beginning on March 1.

The tribute features an accomplished cast of singers, dancers and musicians, eye-catching costumes, and stunning choreography from the 80

’

s era.

“

80’

s LIVE

is a highly entertaining nostalgic feel good production that ignites images and remembrances of a decade when the music, lyrics, and driving beats electrified a generation,” said producer Allen Valentine.

Featuring the music of Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Prince, Aerosmith, Wham, INXS, Duran Duran, Paula Abdul, plus many more,

80s LIVE

will transport those who witnessed it, back to the moment when they first heard these songs pumping through their boomboxes.

80’s LIVE

is produced by Allen Valentine. Jill Reed choreographed the show and Linda Voermans is the creative manager. The musical director is Arland Gilliam and costume design by Kristine Valentine.

Tickets for

80’

’

s LIVE

are $20 and will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Monday, February 17. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, see

hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com

Fairmount & Spring Garden Neighborhood Guide

Because of their proximity to the renowned arts and cultural institutions along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia’s Fairmount, Spring Garden (and increasingly the nearby Francisville and Brewerytown neighborhoods) are often referred to as the “Art Museum area.” The personalities of these historic, laid-back, diverse communities are distinct in their own right.

Fairmount is residential, a sort of urban suburb, with many pubs and restaurants and a massive former prison-turned-museum,

Eastern State Penitentiary.

Between the Parkway and Fairmount, Spring Garden has beautiful Victorian architecture and a decidedly relaxed vibe. Bordering neighborhoods include

Logan Square

to the south, the Schuylkill River to the west and

North Broad

to the east.

The Main Attraction

Eastern State Penitentiary –

Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, the massive, Eastern State Penitentiary operated from 1829 to Today, the historic site opens year-round for tours that explore its history, along with modern social justice issues that surround incarceration. During the Halloween season, the venue’s Terror Behind the Walls experience frightens even the most daring souls. 2027 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 236-3300,

easternstate.org

A Mano –

Under the direction of restaurateur Townsend Wentz, chef Michael Millon prepares seasonal, handcrafted (

a mano

means “by hand”) Italian dishes at a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) spot that earned three out of four bells from

The Philadelphia Inquirer

. Cash only. 2244 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 236-1114,

amanophl.com

Engimono

–

A new sushi BYOB from Kabuki Sushi owner Albert Zheng serves traditional and signature rolls named after Philly institutions like the 76ers and Drexel. 1811 Fairmount Avenue, (267) 273-0303,

engimonosushi.com

Fare –

Healthy, local (and when possible, organic) food comes in small plates, salads and main courses at brunch and dinner. In warmer months, patrons enjoy their food on the outdoor patio, which has a vertical herb garden. 2028 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 763-5500,

farerestaurant.com

Figs –

Still a relatively well-kept neighborhood secret, this cozy corner BYOB dishes out Mediterranean food in an authentic Moroccan setting. Cash only. 2501 Meredith Street,

(215) 978-8440,

figsrestaurant.com

The Greyhound Cafe –

Vegan food with mass appeal — Buffalo wings, burritos, pizza, Impossible sliders, cheesesteak chimichangas, stuffed shells, Italian bowls — makes the reverse commute from Malvern, home to Greyhound’s first location, just north of Fairmount in Francisville. 1839 Poplar Street, (215) 232-2234,

thegreyhoundcafe.com

Jack’s Firehouse –

Set in a 19th-century firehouse — the fireman’s pole is still standing — Jack’s has been serving American cuisine, along with impressive whiskey and scotch selections for nearly 30 years. The restaurant has a prime view of the imposing Eastern State Penitentiary across the street. 2130 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 232-9000,

jacksfirehouse.com

La Calaca Feliz

–

This highly praised, brightly colored spot is known for modern Mexican cuisine and a few dozen tequilas. Not to be missed: the carnitas tacos. 2321 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 787-9930,

lecalacafeliz.com

Pizzeria Vetri

–

Awarded three out of four bells by

The Philadelphia Inquirer

, this upscale pizzeria serves traditional, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, salads and more. Patrons can choose from a variety of beverages on tap, including four rotating beers and red and white wine. 1939 Callowhill Street, (215) 600-2629,

pizzeriavetri.com

Trio

BYOB –

A charming converted row home cranks out Pan Asian cuisine, especially traditional Thai dishes: fragrant, curry-like

khao soi

, made with cooked egg noodles and entrees featuring lemongrass meatballs. One block from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, it’s especially convenient for museumgoers. 2601 Pennsylvania Avenue, (215) 232-8746,

triabyob.com

Umai Umai –

This small Japanese BYOB serves some unusual maki: The Godzilla, for example, features shrimp tempura, eel, avocado, honey, macadamia bits and strawberry; the Spartan combines miso-marinated beef tenderloin, cucumber, mozzarella cheese, shrimp tempura and paprika aioli.  533 N. 22nd Street, (215) 988-0707,

umai-umai.com

Casual Neighborhood Eateries & Cafes

Buena Onda –

A member of chef Jose Garces’ family of restaurants, this Baja Peninsula-inspired, do-good eatery is known for mahi mahi tacos and tofu chorizo quesadillas served on house-made tortillas. Fifty cents from every guacamole or bottled water ordered goes to the Garces Foundation, a nonprofit that helps Philadelphia’s immigrant community access health and educational services. 1901C Callowhill Street, (215) 302-3530,

buenaondatacos.com

Dessertcrazy –

Philly’s first brick-and-mortar keto bakery offers wholesome treats that clock in at fewer than five net carbs per serving. Guests can opt to eat their cupcakes, brownies or cookies onsite with coffee or tea in hand, or have these goodies delivered. 1925 Fairmount Avenue, (267) 764-1411,

dessertcrazy.com

Doma

–

This 35-seat Japanese BYOB with Korean influences serves lunch and dinner to in-the-know neighbors. Regulars swear the hot-stone bibimbap rivals anything found in Chinatown. 1822 Callowhill Street, (215) 564-1114,

domarestaurant.com

iPho

–

Van Nguyen brings traditional Vietnamese noodle soups, vermicelli, broken rice, banh mi and bubble tea to a corner bistro. Diners have the option of eating in or taking out. 1921 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 763-7777,

iphophilly.com

Nine –

Thai street food is the motto and menu of this sleek BYOB, known for

khanom jeep

(pork dumplings), flavorful tom yum soup, cilantro-dressed noodles and mango sticky rice for dessert. 2829 W. Girard Avenue, (267) 703-6699,

ninephilly.com

Rybread –

Father and son team up to share their passion for food at this all-day cafe. The sandwich and panini menu is based on the son’s seven-week road trip across the country; salads, smoothies and ice cream are popular too. 1711 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 769-0603,

rybreadcafe.com

Sabrina’s Café & Spencer’s Too –

South Philadelphia’s 9th Street Italian Market brunchtime darling operates this outpost, where hungry diners fill up on oversized portions of comfort food during lunch, brunch and dinner. 1804 Callowhill Street, (215) 636-9061,

sabrinacafe.com

Stockyard Sandwich Co.

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This farm-to-table — and nose-to-tail — spot offers seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner by chefs Mike Metzger and Will Lindsay, who previously worked together at University City’s White Dog Cafe. 1541 Spring Garden Street, (215) 977-9273,

stockyardphilly.com

Sweet Nectar Dessert Kitchen

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Baker Robin Broughton-Smith was Jay-Z’s accountant before she opened this spot, known for its cakes, cupcakes, cookies, baked doughnuts and muffins — all made with locally sourced produce and no artificial food dyes. The shop also offers BYOB cupcake-decorating classes. 547 N. 20th Street, (267) 318-7143,

sweetnectardk.com

Tela’s Market & Kitchen –

Beloved specialty corner store also serves three rustic gourmet meals a day. Early crowds rave about the egg sandwiches and piled-high bagels, while hearty brisket and butternut squash lasagna fill bellies through 8 p.m. on weeknights. 1833 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 235-0170,

telasmarket.com

Whole Foods Market –

More than just Amazon’s supermarket, this Whole Foods hosts Philly-based food stalls:

hummusiya

Dizengoff, falafel specialist Goldie and Federal Donuts. 2101 Pennsylvania Avenue, (215) 557-0015,

wholefoodsmarket.com

Zorba’s –

Loved for its traditional Greek cuisine — the chicken souvlaki and chargrilled whole fish stand out — and atmosphere, including three generations of Greek owners speaking in their native tongue, this spot is one of the neighborhood’s well-kept, most reasonably priced secrets. 2230 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 978-5990,

zorbastavern.com

Bars With Great Food

Bar Hygge

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Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga; Danish for “cozy camaraderie”) brings together the couples behind Conshohocken’s Baggataway Tavern and Mount Airy’s Earth – Bread + Brewery. The stylish and rustic neighborhood brewpub focuses on beers, wines and seasonal small and large plates. 1720 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 765-2274,

barhygge.com

The Black Taxi –

Smithwick’s and Harp are regularly on tap at this corner Irish bar showing English Premier League soccer and serving bangers and mash, rasher-topped burgers and shepherd’s pie along with typical American bar fare. 745-747 S. 25th Street, (215) 232-1086,

theblacktaxi.com

Crime & Punishment Brewing Co. –

Inspired by Russian literature, this brewery reps Brewerytown with painstakingly crafted IPAs, pilsners, stouts and lagers, and a deliciously refined menu of pickled beets, caramelized cauliflower, sour cherry dumplings and creative brunch options. 2711 W. Girard Avenue, (215) 235-2739,

crimeandpunishmentbrewingco.com

Era Bar and Restaurant –

Serving Ethiopian food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this laid-back spot also offers beer, wine, drink specials and pool. 2743 Poplar Street, (215) 769-7008,

theerabar.com

The Fairview –

The Belgian Café got a complete makeover into an airy gastropub for local craft beers and chef Beth Fox’s American comfort fare, including vegan green chili cheeseburger empanadas. During the warm-weather months, outdoor seating makes for prime people-watching. 601 N. 21st Street, (215) 235-3500,

thebelgiancafe.com

McCrossen’s Tavern –

This neighborhood staple — and close neighbor of the Barnes Foundation — is known for stepped-up tavern favorites, a progressive beverage program and friendly, polished service. 529 N. 20th Street, (215) 854-0923,

mccrossens.com

Rybrew –

This Brewerytown pub, sibling operation to Rybread (see above) and just north of Fairmount, serves awesome sandwiches, along with craft beer (available in growlers to go too). 2816 W. Girard Avenue, (215) 763-1984,

rybrew.com

St. Stephen’s Green –

This multi-level Irish gastropub has plenty of beers and ciders in bottles and on draft, nightly dinner service and Irish brunch on Saturday and Sunday. 1701 Green Street, (267) 239-8968

Thirsty Dice –

Philly’s first board game cafe and bar charges a flat rate ($7) for unlimited play of more than 800 board games (Yahtzee, Life, chess, Apples to Apples, Cards Against Humanity, Codenames, Pandemic, Catan, etc.). Staff helps with choosing and instructions, and serves coffees, local beers, French bread pizzas, mac and cheese and spiked Cinnamon Toast Crunch milkshakes. 1642 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 765-2679,

thirstydice.com

VISIT PHILADELPHIA

is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.

On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog,

visitphilly.com

and

uwishunu.com

, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.