east passyunk avenue: Philadelphia Metropolis

The Battle of Point Breeze: Part II

There is a touch of espionage when it comes to people in Point Breeze talking about their neighborhood. Everyone uses code words. Property developers and their supporters aren't building to make money, they're "revitalizing a community." Opposition to development is guised as a fear of "rising property values", instead of a fear of racial change. (Comments)

The Hipster Commandments

Best of VoxPop» As South Philadelphia native, I am annoyed at how my neighbors have handled the influx of hipsters moving into our neighborhood. I wouldn't use the word "hate" or even "dislike." Overwhelmed is more accurate, so great has the influx been. My neighborhood, which is just off East Passyunk Avenue, was once a place of close-knit relationships among neighbors, with families who have lived here for generations. Now, it feels like we have been invaded by aliens. Many of my neighborhood favorites - the thrift stores, bars, coffee shops and restaurants - have become a study in beards and plaid. (Comments)

Joey Vento Está Muerto

I always cringe when someone says they are going to speak their mind, because it usually proves there's not much in it.  Joey Vento, who owned Geno's Steaks in the Italian Market, was a guy who spoke his mind.And... (Comments)

Growing and Prosperous

The latest U.S. Census data confirms that anyone who has walked around Center City and environs has been observing for years. These areas are prosperous and growing. They are among the 10 neighborhoods Metropolis profiles in the second part of its Changing City series, which catalogues the state of the city during the first decade of the new century. (Comments)

Development Done Right

It is mandatory in America to worship the free market, but when it comes to cities, I wonder if an old European model might work better. Monarchy. As it happens, we have the competing models on display in two neighborhoods... (Comments)