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June 30, 2011

Tonight Picks: “Zahav Boat” Party, Tippler’s Tour In Historic Philadelphia, Movie Screening In Rittenhouse Square And More

Get a taste of Philadelphia's history at three beverage-focused events tonight; plus, enjoy an outdoor movie screening or a Broadway-caliber play.
(Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

[Summer in Philadelphia is action-packed, and we want to help you cherry-pick from all the events and activities going on. On certain days that promise particularly bustling evenings, we'll be rounding up our selections for the most can't-miss pursuits with which to fill your schedule. See you out there!]

Down the Shore 2: The Zahav Boat: “Captain” Michael Solomonov will host the second annual “Zahav boat party” tonight, all-you-can-eat-and-drink plus a 70’s DJ, a lounge singer and karaoke. Enjoy dishes from Solomonov and six other top Philly chefs, who will be at the party (in nautical costume!): Pierre Calmels of Bibou, Jennifer Carroll and Monica Glass of 10 Arts, David Katz of Meme, John Taus of The Corner and Peter Woolsey of Bistrot La Minette.

Where: Zahav, 237 St. James Place
When: Thursday, June 30 beginning at 6 p.m.
Cost: $60

General George’s Beer Garden at the National Constitution Center: $20 admission gets you exclusive preview access to the center’s summer headlining exhibition Discover the Real George Washington plus Yards Brewing Company’s Ales of the Revolution, Jack Daniel’s whiskey cocktails and Colonial-inspired fare. Fun Washington-themed trivia, games and activities will supplement the night’s schedule.

Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
When: Thursday, June 30, 5-8 p.m.
Cost: $20

Wawa Welcome America Philly at the Movies: Pack a picnic and watch The Devil Wears Prada in Rittenhouse Square tonight, for the second to last outdoor screening in this series.

Where: Rittenhouse Square
When: Thursday, June 30, 9 p.m.; series goes through July 1
Cost: Free

Long Story Short starring Colin Quinn, directed by Jerry Seinfeld, at Suzanne Roberts Theatre: PTC concludes their 2010-11 season with Long Story Short, starring Colin Quinn and directed by Jerry Seinfeld. Yes, that Colin and that Jerry. The one-man performance is “a hilarious blend of incisive observation, sharp commentary, and the channeling of famous (and infamous) personalities.”

Where: Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad Street
When: June 29-July 10
Cost: Tickets start at $51

Tippler’s Tour in Historic Philadelphia: Eat, drink, and be merry on this colonial pub crawl through Historic Philadelphia. Learn Colonial toasts and enjoy drinks and snacks at each of the four stops: Salon 401 at Omni Hotel, National Mechanics, Triumph Brewery and City Tavern.

Where: Departs from Historic Philadelphia Center, 6th & Chestnut Streets
When: Thursdays through December 22, 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $35 adults, $30 seniors/military/students

The Philadelphia Orchestra’s “Down the Abbey Road” at the Mann Center: It’s a gorgeous night for an outdoor concert; enjoy a special Beatles tribute by the one and only, world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra.

Where: 52nd Street and Parkside Avenue in Fairmount Park
When: Thursday, June 30, 8 p.m.
Cost: Tickets range from $10-49.50

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June 30, 2011

From Philly 360: Mega-Star And Philadelphia Native Will Smith Discusses Growing Up A Sixers Fan And More While On The Set Of Men In Black 3

 
Philly 360° and students from the Destined to Achieve Successful Heights (DASH) program recently visited megastar, and Philadelphia native, Will Smith on the set of the upcoming Men in Black 3.

Between filming scenes, Smith took the time to speak to the students on growing up in Philly as a Sixers fan and the importance of always following your dreams; check it out in the video above.

For more, head over to Philly 360° and check out the photos of the actor spending time with the students and other behind-the-scenes shots of the Men in Black 3 set.

Will Smith On The Set Of Men In Black 3 [Philly 360°]

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June 30, 2011

The Brandywine River Museum Honors Andrew Wyeth’s Birthday With Free Admission And Birthday Cake, July 12

You can view three generations of Wyeth art at the Brandywine River Museum, including this famous 'Portrait of Pig' by Andrew Wyeth's son James. (Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC)

July is the month we celebrate our nation’s birthday (see all our July 4th coverage here), but it’s also the birth month one of our area’s most famous painters.

Andrew Wyeth, known as one of America’s most famous painters, died on January 16th, 2009 at the age of 91. The Brandywine River Museum has a great number of his works in their collection, making it an excellent place for his fans to go to celebrate his life and works.

On July 12, Andrew Wyeth would have turned 94 and the museum is celebrating with free admission for all visitors. And because it wouldn’t be a birthday party without it, cake will be served in the cafe from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The cafe will be selling other refreshments as well, including hot dogs by local favorite Jimmy John’s.

While you’re there, you can take in Wyeth’s work, view the documentary film produced by Betsy James Wyeth Self Portrait: Snow Hill (show times are 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.); tour N.C. Wyeth’s house, the birth place of Wyeth; or create your own work of art inspired by the same landscape featured so heavily in Wyeth’s works viewed from the floor to ceiling windows of the museum.

Also included with your free admission is an exhibit by Wyeth’s son, Jamie, called Farm Work which spans 40 years — not including a drawing he did as a child recently uncovered by his mother and also on display.

Insider tip: the museum offers free admission on Sunday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to noon, so if you’re unable to make it to Chadds Ford on Tuesday, you can take advantage of that special offer!

Andrew Wyeth’s Birthday at the Brandywine River Musuem
Where: 100 Creek Road, Chadds Ford
When: Tuesday, July 12, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: www.brandywinemuseum.org

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June 30, 2011

Photo Of The Day: The AT&T National Golf Tournament Tees Off Today At Aronimink Golf Club

This is the last year the Tournament will be played at the beautiful Aronimink Golf Club on Philadelphia's Main Line; don't miss your chance to see one of the premier PGA tournaments right here in your backyard. (Photo by Stan Badz/PGA TOUR)

The AT&T National Golf Tournament returnes to Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square today through this Sunday, July 3, with an impressive field of some of the world’s best golfers including Anthony Kim, Jim Furyk, Rickie Fowler, Ernie Els, Dustin Johnson and more.

Aronimink hosted the tournament in 2010 and is hosting it again in 2011 while the tournament’s usual home, Congressional, prepared to host this year’s U.S. Open. The tournament is returning to D.C. next year, so this is your last chance to see one of the premier PGA Golf tournaments take place right here in your backyard.

Check in on Foursquare and save $10 on the purchase of the gate price of one Daily Gallery Pass when you present your phone screen at the AT&T National Ticket Sales tent. Also, each day of the golf tournament, one winner will receive a prize (think Tiger Woods-signed Nike golf bag, brand new SQ Machspeed Black Driver and more) on AT&T National’s Facebook page.

Insider tip: AT&T National College Day is tomorrow, Friday. Fans who show school spirit by wearing their favorite college gear will receive $10 off one Friday Gallery Pass at the gate.

You can purchase tickets at several golf clubs in the area; daily passes start at $20 and go up to $45.

AT&T National Golf Tournament
When: June 29-July 4
Where: Aronimink Golf Club, Newtown Square, PA
Cost: Tickets start at $20
www.attnational.org

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June 30, 2011

Finalists Announced For The 1st Annual Philadelphia Vendy Awards Food Truck Competition, Coming To The Piazza At Schmidts Saturday, July 9

The Vendys heads to the Piazza for the first-ever Philadelphia competition, with participants like Sugar Philly and Gigi and Big R Caribbean/American Soul Food. (Photo credits: right, by Michael Toolan Photography courtesy Vendys; left, by M. Kenndy for GPTMC)

The 2011 Philadelphia Vendy Awards are rolling into town next Saturday, July 9.

The popular food truck event, which got its start in New York six years ago, will take place at the Piazza at Schmidts. A showcase of Philly street food, the Vendys will feature an intense grill-to-grill cook-off to determine who Philadelphia’s best street vendor is.

Participating trucks

Trucks were chosen by a public nomination process.

• Cucina Zapata
• Guapos Tacos
• King of Falafel
• La Copine
• Magic Carpet Foods
• Sugar Philly
• Sweet Box
• Gigi and Big R Caribbean/American Soul Food

Check out the Q&As with each food truck for insight on their food specialties, why they deserve to win the Vendy Cup and more.

Judges

Awards include the People’s Choice Award and the highly coveted Vendy Cup, awarded by a panel of celebrity judges: Mayor Nutter, chef de cuisine of 10 Arts Bistro & Lounge Jennifer Carroll, City Paper’s Meal Ticket food writer Drew Lazor, Philadelphia Weekly food and music editor Brian McManus, James Beard “Best Chef, MidAtlantic 2011″ winner Chef Michael Solomonov and Midtown Lunch Philadelphia editor Jamie Shanker.

Entertainment

Sonya Sofya and Wilbur Rubbins will be providing the tunes, and the emcee will be quizzo host extraordinaire Johnny Goodtimes.

Tickets to the Vendys are available online. All proceeds benefit The Food Trust, a local non-profit striving to improve the nutrition of under-privileged children and adults.

NOTE: ticket buyers through Friday, July 1 are eligible to be Citizen Judge!

This is no backyard BBQ. Your ticket includes food from all the finalists, plus your fill of wine, beer and soda. Philadelphia is attracting more and more high-end culinary events (see also: Burger Brawl), and we’re pretty pumped.

Vendy Awards
When: Saturday, July 9, 3-7 p.m.
Where: Piazza at Schmidts, 2nd Street and Germantown Avenue
Cost: Tickets start at $25
More info: www.eventbrite.com

Previously: The First Annual Philadelphia Vendy Awards Food Truck Competition Coming To The Piazza At Schmidts On Saturday, July 9

[ Photo courtesy Michael Toolan Photography ]

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June 30, 2011

July 4th In Philadelphia Fireworks Guide To Two Spectacular Displays This Weekend: Round One Saturday, July 2 At Penn’s Landing And The Grand Finale Monday, July 4 At The Art Museum

Wawa Welcome America concludes with a bang this weekend, with two sets of fireworks July 2 and — for the grand finale — July 4, with both sets preceded by awesome live concerts. (Photos by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Wawa Welcome America’s sensational fireworks are back for two additional, and final, rounds of lightning fun this Saturday, July 2 and Monday, July 4.

It’s a high-octane weekend and we want to make sure you’re well-equipped to enjoy it all. Check out our guides to both dates:

SATURDAY, JULY 2
Location: Penn’s Landing
Concert: 8 p.m.
Fireworks: 9 p.m.

The entertainment:

First off, on July 2, the “Two Cities, One Waterfront” Concert features the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” on the RiverStage at the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing at 7:30 p.m. and the Air National Guard Band of the Mid-Atlantic at 6 p.m. across the river at Wiggin’s Waterfront Park in Camden. The live concerts are followed by free fireworks, choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack, over the Delaware River at 9:30 p.m.

Don’t forget about the Super Scooper All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival noon-5 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. down at Penn’s Landing earlier that day, and the food- and music-filled Chinatown Block Party noon-4 p.m.

Best places to watch the Fireworks above the Delaware River on Saturday, July 2:

Penn’s Landing: The concert takes place at the Great Plaza (closest intersection is Columbus Boulevard and Chestnut Streets), so the Great Plaza is one solid option. Other good spots at Penn’s Landing are anywhere along its southern stretch, from Dock Street to South Street.

The brand-new Race Street Pier: This is going to be an amazing spot to watch but we recommend you get there early, as it’s probably going to fill up fast. Also keep in mind that alcohol, BBQ and glass containers are not permitted at the Pier.

Washington Avenue Green: Another new park on the Delaware River Waterfront, at 1301 S. Columbus Blvd, formerly Pier 53.

Wiggin’s Park: Across the river in Camden, you can get an equally spectacular view of the fireworks from Wiggin’s Park, located near Adventure Aquarium and the Battleship New Jersey. It’s free and open to the public. Miss America will be in attendance for the July 2 fireworks!

Penn Treaty Park: Penn Treaty Park’s seven acres of open green space and clean picnic areas provide a great vantage point from which to watch the fireworks.

Adventure Aquarium: The aquarium is hosting its 3rd Annual Independence Day Splash on Saturday, July 2 from 6:30–10 p.m. and a special, all-inclusive V.I.P Open Bar Event from 7-11 p.m. It’ll be an exclusive evening strolling through “America’s Most Touchable Aquarium,” with 8,500 of the planet’s coolest animals. Then enjoy one of the best views of the fireworks; there’s also indoor viewing for younger guests who don’t like the loud sounds. Bonus: you can print a voucher for free parking at the aquarium when you book an online ticket, valid July 2-4. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 children 2-12 (VIP tickets are $69, including four-hour open bar and picnic style fare.)

Battleship New Jersey: You can take tours of the battleship from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (reserve in advance) then stick around to view the fireworks. In attendance will be the Phillie Phanatic and animals from the Philadelphia Zoo, plus you can enjoy live music, face-painting and snacks and frosty beverages. Bonus: The Battleship will be selling raffle tickets to all guests on Saturday evening; one lucky winner will get the chance to pull the trigger and fire the 5-inch portside gun to end the fireworks show! Raffle tickets are $5 per person, or get three for $10. The winning ticket will be drawn and announced at 8:30 p.m. This Tour and Fireworks Combo is $18/person, or $36 for families of 3, 4 or 5. Call 1-866-877-6262 ext. 107 to buy.

Independence Seaport Museum: Watch the fireworks from the Seaport’s balcony at the 2011 Fireworks Spectacular, July 2, 6:30-10 p.m. Tickets start at $25 and include an evening of family entertainment, drinks, and dinner.

Hyatt Regency Philadelphia: The patio at Keatings River Grill would be a prime location for the fireworks show. The newly revamped cocktail menu provides the perfect refreshments for the evening.

Village Belle: Head to the grassy space adjacent to Village Belle as Chef-owners Joey and Lou Campanaro will be grilling Little Owl burgers, made with a signature La Frieda blend, topped with bacon and cheese. The knoll is a prime spot for viewing the July 2 fireworks, and a live DJ will add to the evening’s sensory satisfaction. The party’s hopping from 5 p.m.-late. $8/burger.

More, below, including a full guide to watching the July 4th fireworks in Philadelphia and an event map of all the Wawa Welcome America festivities this weekend.

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June 30, 2011

Roundup: In Addition To Official Wawa Welcome America Festivities, Our Top Picks For Where To Celebrate July 4th Weekend

Over July 4th weekend, head to the Betsy Ross House to check out a restored flag made by Betsy’s daughter Clarissa, on display for the first time ever! (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Philadelphia is rife with July 4th celebrations, from fireworks to ice cream festivals to special museum exhibitions, burger BBQs, live concerts and more. Outside of the official Wawa Welcome America celebrations we’ve been outlining for you — and stay tuned for a thorough fireworks-watching guide to the last two rounds of fireworks — there’s lots alternatively to see and do throughout the three-day weekend.

Our top picks, below, for Fourth festivities that cater to life, to liberty, and, of course, to happiness:

National Museum of American Jewish History: Normally closed on Mondays, the museum is keeping its doors open all weekend long, including Monday, July 4. On the 4th, from 10 a.m.-5 pm. enjoy family-friendly activities including screenings of a short film made by Emmy-award winning director David Grubin about American Jews and the Revolutionary War. You can also snack on kosher hot dogs and other snacks in front of the museum and on the 5th floor terrace. July 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; July 2-3, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; July 4, 10 a.m.-5 pm. Adults $12, Young adults 13-21 $11, Kids 12 and under and military Free, Seniors $11.

Civil War Road Show: Step into a massive trailer and learn, through sound, images, objects and exhibits, the many ways Pennsylvanians experienced The War Between the States. Outdoor programs in the Square include storytelling plus a recreation of a Civil War campground. Click here for related Civil War Weekend activities. July 1 –4, 11 a.m.–7 p.m; outdoor programs are noon-5 p.m. Free.

National Constitution Center: The center’s Independence Day Celebration includes extended museum hours, a special show, craft activities and plenty of patriotic fanfare. It’s all with a George Washington twist, in connection with the center’s summer exhibition, Discover the Real George Washington. June 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; July 1-2, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; July 3, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; July 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

Red White & Chocolate Tour: Philadelphia Chocolate Tours provides a way to learn about the history and health benefits of chocolate as you simultaneously celebrate the Fourth of July. It’s arguably the sweetest tour in town. July 2-3, 12:45 p.m. $50 (includes chocolate and a goody bag).

Fireworks and Fountains at Longwood Gardens: The “Celebrate America” themed rendition of this spectacular light and sound extravaganza features a tapestry of patriotic favorites like Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America” on the eve of Independence Day. July 3, 9:15 p.m. $38, ages 16 and up; $22, ages 15 and under.

Chaddsford Winery: Enjoy live music and great wine at the annual Fourth of July Big Bang Barbecue, a three-day series of laid-back afternoons filled with freshly grilled BBQ eats and summer sunshine (fingers crossed). July 2-4, noon-6 p.m. Pay as you go.

Historic Philadelphia: In honor of the National Park Service’s “Freedom Week,” hours for Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are extended to 8 p.m. during July 1–4),and from 5-8 p.m.tickets are not required. See details on the Civil War Weekend for more July 4th weekend happenings in Historic Philadelphia. Specifically check out the Betsy Ross House’s first-ever-seen Civil War flag exhibit!

Village Belle: Head to the grassy space adjacent to Village Belle as Chef-owners Joey and Lou Campanaro will be grilling the “World’s Best Burger,” so named by the London Observer. The Little Owl burger is made with a signature blend from La Frieda, topped with bacon and cheese. The knoll is also a prime spot for viewing the July 2 fireworks over the Delaware River. A live DJ will add to the evening’s sensory satisfaction. July 1, 6-10 p.m.; July 2, 5 p.m.-late. $8/burger.

National Liberty Museum: For this one weekend only, the museum is creating a unique “Liberty Trail” throughout its eight galleries where you can earn “stars and stripes” for sharing your knowledge of our nation’s independence and learning some amazing new factoids. After the tour, use your “prizes” to create your own National Liberty Museum Independence Day Hat. There will also be awards for everyone who completes the entire Liberty Trail Challenge. July 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; July 3, noon-6 p.m.; July 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults $7, Seniors $6, Students $5, Children 5-17 $2 with an adult. (Family rate: $15 for 2 adults and all kids.)

Historic Germantown: Five sites in Historic Germantown are hosting special Independence Day festivities. Head to Stenton for an old fashioned family picnic, including a make-your-own-ice-cream station. Tour the historic Hood Cemetery and Cliveden House where Philadelphia’s only Revolutionary Battle was fought. Then visit the Concord School and hear the once-a-year bell toll, one clang for each year since the signing of the Declaration in 1776. Lastly, explore the Johnson House with a performance by Richard Allen. July 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Jazz On South: The Jazz on South Street Sunday concert series continues on July 3, with a Holiday Jazz Extravaganza concert starring some of the area’s finest musicians: Orrin Evans Quartet, The Royal Brass Band, Steve Baylock. First, starting at 6 p.m., a parade of 20 musicians will perform in a brass band beginning at 8th and South Streets. Two performances follow at The Laff House. July 3, 7 and 9:30 p.m. $20.

Tomorrow, we’ll be sharing details on additional Wawa Welcome America July 4th festivities, including the Independence Day Parade, Party on the Parkway and more.

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June 30, 2011

Reminder: Discover The Real George Washington Opens At The National Constitution Center Tonight With A Beer Garden And Sneak Peek Preview

Raise an alfresco pint to our first president at General George's Beer Garden on the center's terrace. (Photo courtesy National Constitution Center)

The National Constitution Center’s summer headlining exhibition, Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon, kicks off tonight, June 30, with a special one-night-only celebratory event including an outdoor pop-up beer garden and a special sneak peek preview of the exhibition.

General George’s Beer Garden will be welcoming guests on the center’s terrace tonight from 5-8 p.m. so you can raise a pint to our first president on the beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking Independence Mall, before checking out the exhibition all about him.

Inside, prepare for an incredible glimpse into the life of George Washington with more than 100 objects including architectural models, pieces of the family’s fine art collection, personal artifacts and three stunning, life-size figures.

Fun fact: Washington owned one of the largest, most successful commercial distilling operations of his day and brewed his very own beer during the Revolutionary War.

Tap (literally) into that history at General George’s Beer Garden. $20 admission gets you exclusive preview access to the Discover the Real George Washington exhibit plus Yards Brewing Company’s Ales of the Revolution, Jack Daniel’s whiskey cocktails and Colonial-inspired fare. Fun Washington-themed trivia, games and activities will supplement the night’s schedule.

Tickets to the beer garden are available online.

General George’s Beer Garden
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
When: Thursday, June 30, 5-8 p.m.
Cost: $20
More info: www.constitutioncenter.org

Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
When: July 1-September 5
Cost: Adults $15, Seniors and students $14, Children 12 and under free
More info: www.constitutioncenter.org

Previously: The National Constitution Center Launches Its Blockbuster Summer Exhibition, Discover the Real George Washington, With A One-Night Only Beer Garden On Thursday, June 30

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June 30, 2011

Now Open: Cosmic Cafe At Boathouse Row, An Organic And Locally Sourced Restaurant Complete With Riverside Outdoor Seating

Head to the cafe as a reprieve from your Kelly Drive run, or a great spot for a leisurely summer snack.
(Photo credit: GPTMC)

Mayor Nutter recently announced the grand opening of Cosmic Café at Fairmount Park’s Lloyd Hall recreational facility, located at #1 Boathouse Row.

Executive Chef and owner of Cosmic Catering Peg Botto has committed to using seasonal, organic and local ingredients whenever possible for Cosmic Café.

Another draw: outdoor seating on the deck and patio offers a can’t-be-beat view of the Schuylkill River and Boathouse Row. The cafe is also available for private event use.

The menu (you can either dine in or take out) includes breakfast sandwiches made with farm fresh organic eggs, freshly baked muffins and gluten free baked goods, cold deli sandwiches with fresh-cut russet or sweet potato chips and a variety of daily special dishes prepared each day.

Sounds like the makings of the perfect summertime meal along the waterfront.

Mayor Nutter said of the new eatery, “It is a testament to the innovative work of Parks & Recreation staff that we now have seven locations within our park system where visitors can get nutritious, delectable meals and snacks.”

Fun fact: Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative will be delivering CSA shares to Cosmic Cafe this season. Sign up here.

Cosmic Café
#1 Boathouse Row
www.cosmicfoods.com

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June 30, 2011

Highlights From The 2011 Greenworks Progress Report: 40,000 New Trees, Recycling Up 300%, 450,000 Square Feet Of Green Roofs, 472 Hybrid Septa Buses, Bike Commuting Up 150% And Much More

Porous streets are on the horizon too — this is a vision of what a green street could look like in the near future, complete with trees, porous pavement and stormwater irrigation to intercept water and reuse it. (Image created by WRT for the Philadelphia Water Department)

Mayor Nutter launched the Greenworks program in 2009, a seven-year roadmap to move Philadelphia towards becoming one of the greenest cities in America.

The ambitious plan sets 15 sustainability targets in the areas of energy, environment, equity, economy and engagement to make Philadelphia the greenest city in America by 2015. The 2011 Progress Report, released earlier this month, details the measurable successes already achieved in Philadelphia towards reaching this sustainability goal.

As of right now, work on 90% of the Greenworks initiatives (135 of the 151) is either in progress or complete: impressive headway!

A few highlights from the report:

SEPTA: SEPTA purchased 472 hybrid diesel buses, exceeding the Greenworks goal of 440. All of these will be in service by 2012. In addition, SEPTA officially adopted its first ever sustainability plan, SEP-TAINABLE: The Route to Regional Sustainability. The plan outlines twelve specific sustainability goals set for 2015.

Trees: Since 2008, nearly 40,000 trees have been planted in Philadelphia. In addition, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society announced an exciting new environmental initiative this spring called Plant One Million, an ambitious effort to add one million trees in the 13 counties covering southeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

Solar Energy: The city installed its first solar project, a 250 kW array at PWD’s Southeast Water Pollution Control Plant in spring 2011. Planning for a second large solar installation on city-owned land is already underway.

Electric Cars: The Mayor’s Office of Sustainability won a $140,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to install 20 electric vehicle charging stations. Eighteen of the chargers, which the City will install in surface lots and garages, will serve PhillyCarShare electric vehicles, available for any of PhillyCarShare’s 12,000+ members to drive. The remaining two chargers will be open to the public for use by electric vehicle owners.

Recycling: In the first quarter of 2011, the curb-side recycling rate was just over 20%, four times higher than the 2006 rate. Some sections of the city achieved diversion rates over 30%, and many neighborhoods have seen double-digit increases in recycling in the past year. Plus, last year, the Streets Department collected over 189 tons of public recycling.

And: a brand new, 60,000-square foot recycling center officially opened this spring in Northeast Philadelphia; it can sort and process more than 20,000 tons of recyclable newspaper, cardboard, aluminum, glass and plastic each month, and it received LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

We’ve got details on parks, green roofs, bikes and more, below.

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