I Tried It: Collingswood’s Surprisingly Legal THC Cocktails

It’s been about 30 minutes since I ordered my drink, and I’m starting to feel a little funny. My legs are getting heavy, my perception of time is slowing down, and the anxious chatter that usually fills my mind is getting drowned out by the positive vibes of Len’s one-hit wonder “Steal My Sunshine” playing on the radio. This is a dry town, but I’m buzzed — not from alcohol, but from a drink infused with THC (the psychoactive component of marijuana).

Last week, I caught wind that Mercantile 1888, Collingswood’s N/A bar and curated gift shop, is teaming up with Nunzio for a “No Booze, All Buzz 4/20 Munchie Madness Pairing Dinner,” featuring cannabinoid-infused beverages. At first, I thought this would be a one-night foray into the world of THC and CBD cocktails, but no: Cannabis drinks have been on Mercantile 1888’s menu for a couple of months.

“Most of it is a microdose. It’s not going to get you blasted. It’s just for a chill factor,” co-owner Stephanie Kinney says. All of the cocktails they offer are mixed with cans of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC seltzers and teas. They use brands such as Happi, Mighty Kind and Cali Sober which range from 2.5 mg of THC to 10 mg. Most come in at 5 mg.

Yes, it’s all legal.

Of course, New Jersey legalized cannabis for recreational use for residents 21 years and older in 2021; on April 21, 2022, licensed sales began. But these canned beverages are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill which reclassified hemp, making it legal for farmers to grow. The bill also allows products to have hemp-derived THC as long as it doesn’t exceed the federal limit of 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC by volume. Everything that Mercantile 1888 offers falls under that limit. And despite the fact that Collingswood does not permit the sale of alcohol (with the exception of one microbrewery, Devil’s Creek, which closed and will soon be replaced by Swedesboro Brewing’s Raccoon Taproom), there are no rules against cannabis. You just have to be 21 years and older to partake.

The Weed Wooder cocktail I’m drinking has about 5 mg of THC thanks to the can of Mighty Kind THC Watermelon Seltzer it’s made with. The bartender only mixed about half the can into the drink (the rest she passed to me like a sidecar) but I’m mellowed out. Granted, I am a lightweight and this is the first time I’ve had any kind of cannabis in over a year. Compared to my usual glass of red wine or old fashioned, I actually feel more lucid with the Weed Wooder. Another plus: it doesn’t have that pungent weed-flavor aftertaste that edibles tend to have. The only floral notes I’m getting are from the hibiscus and rosehips in the New Orleans bitters.

Kinney and fellow co-owner Amanda Lewis opened Mercantile 1888 in Collingswood last June. It started as an artisan gift shop that had a small N/A bar, but after the holiday gift-shopping season ended and dry January began, they noticed a growing demand for a place locals could grab tasty cocktails with friends. And in a town that’s been dry since 1871, leaning more into the zero-proof bar side of their business made sense. “We wanted to create a space where anybody can come, regardless if they’re a drinker or not,” Kinney says.

At first, Kinney and Lewis were slow to introduce cannabinoid-infused products. CBD, CBN and CBG came first, and as they continued working their way through the cannabinoid alphabet, customers actually started requesting THC.

“We wanted to tread lightly,” Lewis says, adding that they were mindful of their sober customers. Kinney, who has been sober for 12 years, doesn’t use any mind- or mood-altering substances, but she says everyone’s definition of sobriety is different. According to Kinney, there’s an increasing number of visitors coming to Mercantile 1888 who are “California sober,” meaning they only use cannabis and nothing else.

So far, the response to the new THC drinks has been overwhelmingly positive.

The welcoming attitude of the staff at Mercantile 1888 and the casual nature in which you can imbibe THC is another step toward normalizing its recreational use.

But, according to Lewis, another key to ensuring people have a good experience is education. For many who come in and order from the functional menu (functional meaning the drinks provide a feeling or a benefit of some kind), it’s their first time. The staff are all trained on how to talk to customers about their functional cocktails, the dosages of THC and CBD, and the effects of each product. They even held a “Teach and Taste” class recently all about their wide range of hemp-infused beverages. “We want everybody to know they’re not judged. We want to make sure that everybody feels good,” Lewis says.

If THC isn’t your thing, but you still want a little something to take the edge off, there are other functional beverages to choose from. I followed my Weed Wooder with the Bee’s Knees, a syrupy sweet cocktail of red-clover syrup, lavender-infused honey, lemon and Dromme Calm, a zero-proof blend of botanicals, adaptogens, and nootropics meant to make you feel relaxed. It even comes with a sticky little square of honeycomb, for some extra sweetness.

In addition to the THC cocktails on the menu, Mercantile 1888 sells cans to go. Since most of the restaurants in Collingswood are BYOB, locals can technically show up to dinner with a THC-infused beverage instead of a boozy one. “To be honest I wouldn’t really care,” Richard Cusack, owner and chef of June BYOB, says. “I don’t think someone drinking a microdose of THC would be an issue compared to some people showing up with a bottle of vodka and getting hammered. If anything the people drinking the infused drink might get the munchies and order more.” Maria Beddia, owner of Maria’s Bread Sandwiches, is also cool with customers showing up with THC-infused drinks. “I think it’s great! We are BYO-friendly all around,” she says.

I’m not stoned after the Weed Wooder and the Bee’s Knees, but I’m certainly feeling a little lighter. On the walk home, I get a good chuckle at the fact I just got buzzed from a THC cocktail in a dry town.

Everything You Need to Know About the Old City Wedding Stroll on April 24th

A few years ago, we told you that Old City was a one-stop wedding shop. And that continues to ring true this year with the third annual Old City Wedding Stroll, set for April 24th beginning at 5 p.m. The evening event lets soon-to-be-weds get an inside look at all of the neighborhood’s best Big Day businesses, from florists to bridal salons to venues to beauty. Here are all the details you need to know to attend.

The event is free.

But you must register by April 23rd at 10 a.m. You can do that by clicking here.

You can win free stuff!

When you register, you’ll be entered to win a grand prize valued at almost $4,000, with elements such as $150 off a gown purchased at The Wedding Factor, hair and makeup application from JM & Co., a tungsten wedding band from Hitched, gift cards and other perks.

You’ll be able to explore upwards of 35 wedding businesses.

Each participating spot is offering something unique for couples who stop by. For example:

• On the attire front, if you pop into Lovely Bride, you can not only meet the stylists but also discover Philly designer Madison Chamberlain’s look-at-me veils, which we showcased here. Over at Mari Mi Bridal — whose pearl-encrusted Netta BenShabu gown made our most recent cover — you’ll receive complimentary consultations. And Damari, known for its custom-tailored suits, is pouring New Liberty whiskey.

• Those in need of blooms should visit NE Flower Boutique and Petit Jardin en Ville (for consultations and demos, respectively), and those still searching for a venue for their wedding — or related festivities — should plan to walk over to Penn’s View Hotel, where you can chat with the management team over a free glass of champagne. Then check out restaurants like Royal Boucherie, such a chic, sweet place for cozy “I do’s.” (Make sure to grab a few apps while you’re here.)
• We’re particularly excited about The Papery’s participation this year — the beloved stationery studio and gift boutique has been in Midtown Village for the past decade but is now back in Old City.

It makes for a fun night out with your wedding besties!

After all, spots like Boxbar, known for its create-your-own gift boxes, will open their doors. Wax + Wine will show off its custom wedding candle displays. (Both Wax + Wine and Boxbar are ideal spots for shower fun, by the way.) And Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar will be serving non-alcoholic versions of their signature mojito for you to toast.

With all that, we’ve barely scraped the surface. (See the full list of participants here.) Go register right now — we hope to see you there!

 

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What Philly Makes: The Great Philadelphia Salary Report of 2024

It’s been a while since we took a look at what people in Philadelphia make for a living.

In fact, it’s been so long that when we last did this, John Dougherty was still the powerful head of Local 98 instead of a convicted felon. Seth Williams was hanging on by a thread as district attorney before heading off to federal prison. And some guy named Jason Peters was playing for the Eagles.

Now, here we are. It’s 2024. And we decided it was time to run the numbers again. Here, a presentation of what a wide range of Philadelphians make.

(To read the methodology behind this report, scroll to the bottom of this story.)

Cherelle Parker, Mayor: $261,497

Mayor Parker’s salary is the same as what Mayor Kenney’s was during his last year in office. Parker will get an $8,000 bump next year. But that still won’t make her the highest paid City of Philadelphia employee. Not even close. Keep reading to see who gets the biggest taxpayer bucks.

Brittany Lynn, drag queen: $200,000-plus

But, Lynn tells Philly Mag, more than $105,000 of the money she took in last year through her company Philly Drag Mafia went back out to pay other drag queens she books for gigs. As for her exact earnings last year: “A lady never reveals her age or how much money she makes … But you can safely say over $200,000.”

Rookie Philadelphia Police Officer: $66,183

Thanks to a contract extension with the city, all rank-and-file police officers will see a five-percent wage increase starting in July. And what does a rookie cop in relatively chill Lower Merion make? About $20,000 more than their peers in Philly. After five years, a cop in Lower Merion is making more like $124,000.

First-year associate at Blank Rome: $215,000

The huge Philly-based firm offers some of the highest starting salaries in the entire country. If you’re a new lawyer and you want to live in Philly, this is as good as it gets.

John Fetterman, U.S. Senator: $174,000

He actually took a pay cut to take the job on Capitol Hill: Fetterman was making about $217,000 as Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania. When Fetterman was the mayor of Braddock, just outside of Pittsburgh, that job paid $150 per month.

Executive chef at a popular Delco restaurant: $75,000, including bonuses

The chef in question has been at the restaurant for more than ten years and says, “Believe me, the place wouldn’t still be around if I wasn’t breaking my back there every day.”

Carol MacKenzie, KYW Newsradio anchor: $153,000, approximately

No, the veteran on-air talent didn’t offer us this information. She revealed it in a lawsuit she filed last year against KYW. MacKenzie alleged that the station routinely paid similarly situated men much more than her. That suit is now in legal limbo, because Audacy, the parent company of KYW, has entered bankruptcy proceedings.

Brian Roberts, Comcast CEO: $32.1 million

According to this report, Roberts is the highest-paid CEO at any publicly-traded company in the Philadelphia region. The next highest paid is Gregory Bentley, CEO of Exton-based software company Bentley Systems. His earnings? $18.44 million. He’s followed by Steven Collis, CEO of Conshy-based big pharma player Cencora, formerly known as AmerisourceBergen. He’s at $16.74 million.

Larry Krasner, District Attorney: $211,495

He made around $179,000 in his first year, back in 2018. The starting salary for lawyers in his office is $70,000. Good luck paying back all that law school debt! But actually, attorneys who come to work for Crusading Krasner can take advantage of a tuition reimbursement program, assuming they work as a prosecutor or public defender or for a non-profit organization for a full decade and that they’ve kept up with their loan payments.

A server at Middle Child Clubhouse: $70,000

That’s for an evening server at the popular all-day bar and restaurant in Fishtown. And that figure includes tips, of course.

A Philly 911 dispatcher: $52,519

Starting pay for 911 trainees is $42,379. Now that is one incredibly stressful job.

Middle school teacher at a well-known local private school: $55,000

The teacher in question says they’d be open to working in a Philadelphia public school, where they’d have the potential to earn more money, once they feel better about the direction of the school district. Speaking of Philadelphia public school teachers, they start at $50,066. The most senior teachers can earn in the ballpark of $100,000.

Kenyatta Johnson, City Council President: $194,934

Councilmembers who don’t hold leadership positions within City Council make $155.313, which is about three times the median household income in Philadelphia. Majority leader Curtis Jones, Jr. earns $166,407.

A full-time, overnight Delco Wawa worker: $40,520

That’s not bad! Especially considering the perks, which include free hoagies and, oh yeah, what’s actually a pretty stellar benefits package, relative to a lot of other jobs of this level out there.

A brewer at Yards Brewing Company: $50,000

Though we have to imagine that, after a while, you just get really, really sick of the smell of beer.

A senior librarian at the Free Library of Philadelphia: $111,577

Meanwhile, Kelly Richards, the new head of the Free Library, makes $223,871. Your average library assistant earns in the $40,000s. And the lowest-paid actual librarian has a salary of $52,303.

Rich Lazer, Philadelphia Parking Authority executive director: $238,081

And in case you want to become one of those dreaded parking enforcement officers who leave tickets on cars, your starting salary will be $45,000. Lazer just upped the starting salary from $40,137 as of April 1st. No, the position does not include hazard pay. It probably should.

A Philadelphia Uber driver: $68,000

OK, so Uber loves to tell people that drivers can make a lot of money. And $68,000 doesn’t seem like a bad living. But Uber drivers tell you that they actually wind up with far, far less at the end of the year than what their gross income shows, thanks to car washes, repairs, maintenance, leasing fees, and the like. This particular Uber driver confirmed as much but declined to say what his net income was. It’s also worth noting that the driver works the shifts a lot of drivers don’t want to touch. Late weekend nights, when you have to deal with lots of drunk people. Big sporting events and concerts, when you also have to deal with lots of drunk people — and traffic.

Bernard Havard, Walnut Street Theatre CEO: $934,461

If you think that’s a lot of money for the head of a local theater, plenty of starving artists in town agree with you. That said, most of the seats at Walnut Street Theatre shows tend to be filled.

A well-known Philadelphia actress: $8,000

Speaking of starving artists … Says the actress: “It’s embarrassing and exhausting. People don’t seem to give a shit about women. I can’t get theater work, because look at the cast lists. They are predominantly male and one or two non-union YOUNG women. It’s gross.” So how on earth is she surviving? “I’m living off savings,” she tells us. “I’ve made some really smart business decisions in the past. So, luckily, I have a decent amount in savings. Thank God!”

Sharon Pinkenson, Greater Philadelphia Film Office executive director: $196,248

How ’bout you get Bradley Cooper to shoot another movie here, Shar?

John Zillmer, CEO, Aramark: $13.32 million

We’re sure that all those Aramark workers — like concession-stand workers, cooks, and bartenders at Citizens Bank Park and the Wells Fargo Center — who’ve been fighting for better wages and benefits are well aware that their boss is one of the best-compensated chief execs in the region.

Bill Marrazzo, CEO, WHYY: $806,188

WHYY has long been criticized for Marrazzo’s salary, which is beyond huge in the public radio industry. If you’re wondering how Marrazzo’s salary has grown over time, he made $430,786 in 2007. We definitely think about what Marrazzo makes every single time Ed Cunningham interrupts our favorite WHYY shows to plead for more money for the station. (And then we still make a donation, because we love the station so much. But still …)

Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback: ~$51 million

Well, that might not be what Hurts is taking home this year. But thanks to his recent contract extension, Hurts will earn $255 million over the next five years, averaging out at $51 million per year. (NFL salary structures are byzantine.) His predecessor as Birds’ signal-caller, Carson Wentz, came in at about $32 million each year.

South Philly-based house painter: $52,000

He says that he’s “constantly covered in paint” but that it’s a “good-enough living.” “I never have to take my work home with me,” he points out. He said he works an average of four days each week.

Full-time bartender at a popular Center City bar: $80,000, including tips

That’s no chump change. Then again, you do have to put up with the guy who inevitably wants to put “Piano Man” on repeat on the play-anything jukebox.

Terry Gross, Fresh Air host: $402,415

Nationally syndicated Gross is, by far, the highest-paid on-air talent at WHYY. The second-highest paid, prior to her giving up her longtime WHYY show Radio Times in 2023 and switching to a weekly show with a new format, was Marty Moss-Coane, whose most recently reported salary was $158,075.

Yannick Nezet-Seguin, Philadelphia Orchestra musical director: $1,124,037

According to tax documents, he also pulls in over $1 million in his role as musical director of the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Maybe you shouldn’t have given up on those piano lessons your parents wanted to pay for.

Music teacher at a South Philadelphia public school: $84,394

The teacher supplements this school district income by playing in a wedding band and teaching private music lessons.

Amy Meisinger, Conestoga High School principal: $190,491

The high school has been ranked the second-best in all of Pennsylvania and landed its hometown on a recent list of the 20 best places in America to live for public schools.

Jeannine Payne, Masterman principal: $159,536

The principal of what has been ranked the best high school in all of Pennsylvania earns about $30,000 less than the principal of the second-best. Sometimes second-best is OK, kids!

Robert Briggs, American Bible Society president: $456,184

At least that’s what he made before he resigned. Yes, this is the same American Bible Society that poured $60 million into a Bible museum that it’s now closing down after less than three years in operation. Interestingly, the ABS is the 19th-biggest non-profit in Philadelphia (based on gross receipts) ahead of St. Joseph’s University and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. (Don’t worry: The PMA isn’t closing!)

Scott Adzick, chief surgeon, CHOP: $3,138,521

Adzick is the highest paid doctor in the University of Pennsylvania health system. The University of Pennsylvania itself is the largest non-profit in Philadelphia, based on gross receipts. Penn is also the largest employer in Philadelphia and the fourth largest in the state, behind the federal government, state government, and Walmart.

Sister Mary Scullion, Project HOME president: $193,501

She’s not the highest-paid executive at the charitable organization that houses the unhoused and provides other services. That would be her treasurer and associate executive director, who earns $370,000. Both are retiring this year.

Bryce Harper, Phillies first baseman: $26 million

That’s what Bryce Harper is earning this season. In 2019, he signed a 13-year, $330 million contract. Trea Turner is taking home slightly more than his teammate, with $27.3 million in earnings this year. His contract is an 11-year one and totals $300 million. Falling in line right behind them: Aaron Nola ($24.6 million); Zack Wheeler ($25.3 million) and J.T. Realmuto ($23.9 million).

Philadelphia school crossing guard: $13,640

We wonder if those crossing guards who dance and sing while they work make any more money than this. Maybe they can put out a tip bucket?

Bartender at a local dive bar: $36,400

That’s working five nights a week in a smoky bar filled with a bunch of deadbeats. And, yes, that includes tips. Stay in school, kids!

Fishtown-based singer and occasional pet-sitter: $12,210

And now you understand why your parents told you to get a degree before pursuing your dream of becoming the next Taylor Swift.

Pat’s Steaks manager: $50,000-plus

That’s working a four-day week. The people actually making your Whiz Wits make $15 to $18 per hour. And they get free cheesesteaks.

Pedro Ramos, The Philadelphia Foundation president: $473,159

The Philadelphia Foundation, as in the non-profit that supports so many local organizations and initiatives. The foundation also owns the Philadelphia Inquirer and helps keep it afloat.

Anthony Gargano, ALL CITY host: $250,000

That’s what Gargano says he’ll make this year after leaving The Fanatic last year, which led to a since-settled lawsuit. He was making $300,000 at The Fanatic but doesn’t seem to be worried about the pay cut. He explains that he has a piece of ALL CITY, so that if it blows up and sells in 10 years, he’ll be able to buy that private island off the coast of Italy he’s always wanted.

Rochelle Bilal, Philadelphia Sheriff: $155,313

The controversial (and we do mean controversial) elected official would be making $285,000, had the cushy raise she proposed for herself gone through. Thankfully, it did not.

Constance DiAngelo, Philadelphia Medical Examiner: $352,637

She sees dead people. Or at least she did until she abruptly resigned amid controversy in December. The medical examiner is always the highest-paid official in the City of Philadelphia. Some assistant medical examiners make $281,120.

Cafe manager at an area La Colombe: $75,000, plus bonuses

We guess the career decision to become a barista works out OK enough for some people.

Joel Embiid, 76ers center: $47.6 million

In NBA salary rankings, Embiid topped LeBron James for third place in 2023.

Methodology: Many salaries are based on the most recent SEC filings, form 990s and published reports available at press time from corporations and non-profits. Some salaries include forms of compensation other than salary, such as stock awards and bonuses. And some salaries were provided to us by individuals we don’t name here, because those individuals only agreed to reveal their earnings under the condition of anonymity.

Tortured Poets Unite: Where to Celebrate Taylor Swift’s New Album in Philly

Are you ready for it? Taylor Swift releases her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, on Friday, April 19th. If you’re looking to dance and celebrate with fellow Swifties, here’s what Philly’s got planned.

The Tortured Poets Department Menu at Taqueria Amor

Before the album even comes out, Taqueria Amor will be celebrating Taylor Swift’s latest with themed menu offerings. Starting Thursday, April 18th, order drinks inspired by the TTPD tracklist. “Guilty as Sin?” becomes “Guilty as Gin?,” “I Can Fix Him” becomes the champagne (problems?)-forward “I Can Fizz Him,” and “Florida!!!” doesn’t change because that’s a perfectly chaotic title that works for both a song and a citrusy alcoholic beverage. Taqueria Amor is also planning to team up with nearby Main Street Music for a Record Store Day event on April 20th.
April 18th-28th, Taqueria Amor, 4410 Main Street.

Kittens & Poets: A Taylor Release Party

Latchkey is teaming up with Morris Animal Refuge — Taylor loves cats, in case you didn’t know — for a free listening party with something none of the others around town have: a litter of kittens! (While you can’t take home a kitten on the spot, you can meet one and learn next steps to making it your forever friend.) Plus, you get to listen to TTPD in our favorite record shop! This party is free to attend and for all ages.
April 19th, 5-7 p.m., Latchkey, 1502 East Passyunk Avenue.

Taylor Swift Album Drop Party at Bark Social

If you prefer dogs to cats, we’ve got you covered, too! All day long, the dog-friendly bar in Manayunk will be playing Taylor Swift and giving prizes for best Taylor Era costume. Plus, a themed cocktail, and did we mention dogs? Kids are also welcome prior to 8 p.m. (accompanied by an adult); humans without dogs are welcome, too. (Note: Dogs must be registered with vaccine records and Bark Social membership.)
April 19th, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Bark Social Manayunk, 3720 Main Street.

Swiftie Hot Yoga Flow

Amrita Yoga is hosting a special pop-up class in honor of The Tortured Poets Department on its release day. The all-levels vinyasa flow with Kiera Missanelli will be soundtracked Taylor’s latest album. Pre-register online to reserve your spot.
April 19th, 6-7 p.m., Amrita Yoga & Wellness, 1204 Frankford Avenue.

Unicorn Party’s Taylor Swift Night

Manatawny’s Fishtown tasting room is hosting a free Tortured Poets Department release party where they’ll play the new album along with more Taylor Swift thanks to DJs from Unicorn Party, who will also be bringing a “glitterbooth” (and Instax to capture it all). Plus, friendship bracelets, themed drinks and decorations.
April 19th, 8-11 p.m., Manatawny Still Works, 1321 North Lee Street.

The Swemo Experience

Over at City Winery, they’ll playing through the entire Tortured Poets Department album and then jumping into the Swemo Experience: “Emo x T. Swift chaos,” to use their description. The playlist includes emo, pop-punk, Taylor Swift, and Pop Goes Punk covers.
April 19th, 9 p.m., City Winery, 990 Filbert Street.

Taylor’s Version: A Swiftie Dance Party

Brooklyn Bowl’s getting right to the point, and just throwing a Taylor Swift dance party. The Tortured Poets Department will be part of the all-Eras playlist, too, but it’s just another opportunity to gather and dance (and bowl?) with Swifties. No notes.
April 20th, 9:30 p.m., Brooklyn Bowl, 1009 Canal Street.

Tortured Poets Department Listening Party

Evil Genius will be celebrating by playing the new album in full, along with a free friendship-bracelet-making station and cookies from Madison K. You can also add glitter to any of Evil Genius’s beers by ordering it “Taylor’s Version.”
April 21st, 4-6 p.m., Evil Genius Beer Company, 1727 North Front Street.

A SwifTea Party

Wilmington’s historic Hotel Du Pont is hosting a Taylor Swift-themed tea party, with menu items like the “Catching Kelce” sandwich and a Lemon Lavender Haze Bar for dessert. The party will also have a glow-up station with hair tinsel, gems, and custom nail art by Currie. And, of course, there will be friendship bracelets.
April 21st, 3 p.m., Hotel Du Pont, 42 West 11th Street, Wilmington.

Eras Dance Party at Garage

Come dressed as your favorite Era for an afternoon dance party of Taylor’s greatest hits (including TTPD) courtesy of DJ Carl Michaels.
April 28th, 2-5 p.m., Garage Passyunk, 1231 East Passyunk Avenue.

Shake it Off: Taylor Swift Night

Even more Jenny Henny! Riot Nerd brings back its super-popular Taylor Swift night in honor of her newest album. Expect a Tay-Tay soundtrack spun by DJs 21Sparksfly and Riot Meg, plus a drag impersonation performance by Jenny Henny. You can catch the party in early May at Ardmore Music Hall, then later in the month at Underground Arts.
May 3rd, 8:30 p.m., Ardmore Music Hall, 23 East Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore.
May 25th, 9 p.m.-2 a.m., Underground Arts, 1200 Callowhill Street.

The Tortured Poets Department Drag Brunch

Taylor Swift drag impersonator Jenny Henny hosts a daytime fête at Underground Arts. Expect guest performances, Riot Nerd DJs and mimosas! An a la carte brunch menu will be available at an extra cost.
April 28th, noon, Underground Arts, 1200 Callowhill Street.

Mother’s Day Drag Brunch: Taylor’s Version

Another Taylor drag brunch! This time, Evil Genius gets in on the fun, and Mom’s invited! A lineup of drag performers will celebrate every era of Taylor Swift, and the event is adults-only. Tickets are by-the-table; brunch will be available at an extra cost.
May 12th, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Evil Genius, 1727 North Front Street.

For the Kids

Sure, some of the events above are for all ages, but here are some parties just for the littlest Swifties.

The Rock & Roll Playhouse presents Music of Taylor Swift for Kids

The Rock and Roll Playhouse brings the music of Taylor Swift to Ardmore with a side of fun (think glow-sticks, freeze-dance games and a giant parachute) for the littlest fans. The concert always sells out (so hurry up!) and is a full-on tribute that parents will enjoy too. This one’s on Mother’s Day, and $1 from every ticket benefits the nonprofit Femme House, which helps create opportunities for women and gender-expansive individuals in technical fields of music like DJ’ing and production.
May 12th, 11:45 a.m., Ardmore Music Hall, 23 East Lancaster Avenue.

Taylor Swift Junior Jamboree

Bring the kids in their favorite Eras costume to sing and dance — Sunset Social is setting up a dance floor above the city! The party will also have $3 ice-cream pints, a caricature artist, and bubbles (because everyone likes bubbles). Tickets are free for kids two and under.
May 26th, noon-3 p.m., Sunset Social, 129 South 30th Street.

Swifty Disco

South Philly’s kiddie haven, Beehive at Bok, is hosting a Swiftie dance party for kids ages four through 10 with Music With Ry. Expect pizza, bracelet making, photo ops, and lots of dancing to Taylor Swift! (Note: Tickets are priced per family.)
May 31st, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Beehive at Bok, 1901 South 9th Street.

The Enduring Simplicity of Fountain Porter’s $6 Burger

Welcome to Just One Dish, a Foobooz series that looks at an outstanding item on a Philly restaurant’s menu — the story behind the dish, how it’s made, and why you should be going out of your way to try it.

The cheeseburger from Fountain Porter was the first thing I ate after moving to Philly. Almost two years later, I visit the East Passyunk bar to eat the same burger at least once or twice a month, sometimes more. It’s there when I’m having a bad day, and when I’ve just gotten back from out of town and I’m too lazy to cook. And it was there when I watched the credits roll at the end of The Menu and all I wanted was a damn burger.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of trying it, let me describe the Fountain Porter burger for you: a juicy, slightly salty beef patty — cooked medium-rare — under a melted layer of American cheese and atop a crisp slice of lettuce and tomato, all tucked inside a soft potato roll. And on the side, two pickle chips for good measure.

At $6, it’s a great burger. Reliably delicious, it has all the components of a classic cheeseburger. And in the best way, it’s messy to eat; you can expect drips of fat to accumulate on your plate as you go — proof the patty is cooked just right. The taste and low price, plus the fact it’s available seven days a week until 1 a.m., keep me coming back for more. I’m not the only one. Fountain Porter’s owner Evan Clancy tells me the bar sells anywhere from 800 to 1,000 burgers each week.

Part of the burger’s appeal, besides its simplicity, is that it’s tasted the same for years. The bar began slinging them in 2013, and though I tried it for the first time in 2018 (then as a visitor to Philly), it still tastes exactly as I remember it. The consistency is impressive. When I ask Clancy how they do it, he tells me it’s easy to get it right when it’s one thing.

The burger is one of just a few items on Fountain Porter’s food menu, but, without a doubt, it’s the star, supported by the fries and dill pickles, carrots, jalapeños, or green beans — perfectly respectable sides that pair nicely with anything off the bar’s beer or wine list. In previous years, the bar has offered charcuterie boards, breakfast sandwiches, and a veggie burger, though the latter left the menu after the oven broke (which was required to cook the tempeh and roasted beets used to make them). Clancy no longer eats meat himself — but he’ll still taste the beef burger whenever he’s hiring a new cook — and won’t say never to the idea of another veggie option in the future.

While Clancy says “there’s no secret” to the burger the bar has become known for, there is of course a method that ensures the quality remains top-notch. “We weigh out each patty,” he says, “so the weight of each burger is the exact same.” The beef is also seasoned and cooked consistently — nothing fancy, he says, just “high heat, salt, and pepper.” And there’s even a guide for the cook, with the grilling technique baked into the kitchen’s ticketing process, down to the minute. “Each ticket has two times on it: when you’re essentially ready to flip it, and then when you’re basically ready to pull it off,” Clancy says. It’s a simple, but effective system in a two-person kitchen, where one cook makes the burgers and the other plates them.

The ingredients are, unsurprisingly, just as no-frills. “We don’t source from, like, a farm in Bucks County,” Clancy says. “It’s not sexy in that sense. It’s straightforward.” The bar gets Martin’s potato buns from a bread distribution company, beef from the Italian Market, and the lettuce and tomato delivered from a produce vendor.

The cost of these ingredients has, naturally, fluctuated over the years, and at one point impacted the price of Fountain Porter’s burger, which was previously $5. Sometime before the pandemic, the price went up by a dollar — a hike that Clancy says was necessary, given the increasing cost of beef at the time. It was not as dramatic of a price increase as Southwark’s burger which went from $17 in 2019 to $24 in 2022 (their double cheeseburger with fries currently costs $25). Still, it’s one of the most affordable burgers in the city outside of a fast-food joint, and the bar owner says it’s always been important to him that the cost of the burger remain low.

When he opened Fountain Porter, Clancy knew he wanted to serve a burger — “something simple that we could offer at a good price point” — in part inspired by corner bars like Cherry Street Tavern and Nick’s Roast Beef, places he says don’t try to do “too much” with their food. In that spirit, Clancy consulted a former colleague — the late chef, Al Anderson — to help find the right formula for the burger, factoring in everything from portion size to seasoning, so the bar could price it fairly.

When I ask Clancy how the burger is still so affordable today, he points to the operation at Fountain Porter as a whole. “As long as, at the end of the day, it all shakes out and people get paid and the bar is still open, that’s what guides me,” he says.

Thankfully, people like to drink beer which certainly helps. And more often than not, they’ll come in for a drink and stay for the burger.

Delco Band Claims Country Star Jelly Roll Stole Its Name

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Delco Band Jellyroll Files Lawsuit Against Country Star Jelly Roll Over Name

The Delco band Jellyroll has been playing weddings in the Greater Philadelphia region for decades, entertaining crowds with covers of songs like “Jungle Boogie,” “This Is How We Do It” and “Poison.” You may also have seen Jellyroll at local galas and events like the Philadelphia Auto Show’s Black Tie Tailgate.

And then there’s Jelly Roll. No, not Jellyroll. Jelly Roll. That’s the country music star/rapper, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord. Jelly Roll has been around since the early 2010s, but he only recently gained country star status.

In 2022, his song “Dead Man Walking” was top of the charts on rock radio. One year later, his “Son of a Sinner” was one of the most-played new songs on country radio. The Country Music Association named him New Artist of the Year for 2023. And just this year, he was nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys. He didn’t win, but he did seem to enjoy Miley Cyrus’s performance at the ceremony.

Well, Delco’s Jellyroll hasn’t taken too kindly to Nashville’s Jelly Roll. In fact, the local band just sued Jelly Roll in Philadelphia’s federal court. The founder of Jellyroll registered for a trademark on the name for use as a musical act way back in 2009. And he says that Jelly Roll is infringing on that trademark. A quick search of the national trademark database shows that DeFord just applied for a trademark on the name Jelly Roll for use on clothing and other wearables (a.k.a. concert merch) in early March and that the application is awaiting examination by a trademark office attorney.

According to the suit, DeFord’s use of the name Jelly Roll for a musical act leads to confusion, and since Jelly Roll recently shot to stardom, Google searches for a band called Jelly Roll that once led to Jellyroll’s site now lead to the country singer’s site. Plus, claims the suit, DeFord’s criminal past (he had several run-ins with the law in the 2000s, starting at age 14 — he’s now 39) harms the reputation of Jellyroll for anybody who might associate one act with the other.

Jellyroll’s attorney sent a cease-and-desist letter to Jelly Roll’s attorney, but Jelly Roll continues to promote himself as Jelly Roll, hence the suit.

Lawyers representing Jellyroll and Jelly Roll did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Broad Street Crackdown

If you’ve driven in Philadelphia anytime since 2020, you probably realize that drivers seem a bit nuts — nuttier than they used to be. They blatantly disregard red lights and stop signs. If you’re waiting for oncoming traffic to stop so you can make a left turn at an intersection, the impatient driver behind you might just go around you and dangerously make that same turn. Drivers basically do what they want these days, but the Philadelphia police department says it’s finally going to do something about that. Well, on Broad Street at least.

Police just announced a 30-day crackdown on Broad Street from City Hall up to Cheltenham Avenue. The initiative began on Monday, and police say officers are focusing on bad driving and double-parking and will be ready to hand out tickets left and right. The department has characterized this as a “zero-tolerance approach.”

“These reckless actions have put the safety of our citizens and visitors at risk,” Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said in a statement. “This initiative is designed to address these concerns and create a safer environment for everyone traveling along this busy corridor.”

Police say that in the past year, there were 1,601 crashes on North Broad Street alone. And 52 of those crashes involved pedestrians. Nine people died. Again, this is just on North Broad Street.

No word on what exactly is supposed to happen when that 30-day period ends.

Coyotes in Delco?

I have to say, I didn’t realize there were coyotes in these parts. But it turns out there are. And there’s one in Delco that just snatched a small dog out of a family’s backyard and ran into the woods. Where’s that damn Road Runner when you need him? Her? Wait, was Road Runner a boy or a girl?

By the Numbers

$2.6 billion: What SEPTA wants to spend in 2025. The transit agency just unveiled its latest budget proposal. That proposal includes more police officers and various system upgrades. But let’s just remember that some SEPTA upgrades aren’t necessarily upgrades.

4: Years in business for Center City medical marijuana dispensary Ethos Cannabis, which is shutting down on, yes, 4/20. Apparently, the property’s newish owners secured financing that doesn’t allow marijuana dispensaries to operate in the building.

7: Wawa stores in and around Center City that the company has closed since 2020. But the company’s president declared yesterday (Wawa’s 60th anniversary) that Wawa remains committed to Philadelphia and is, in fact, “Philly proud.”

Local Talent

As I mentioned above, Tuesday was the 60th anniversary of Wawa. Yes, I got my free Wawa coffee in honor of the occasion. I rarely get food at Wawa, but, I figured, why not? The only thing I’ll eat at Wawa these days is a chicken salad Shorti with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, hot peppers and oregano. So I got one. But who cares what I eat at Wawa? What do local talents and celebrities like Michael Solomonov, Governor Josh Shapiro, weather predictor Cecily Tynan, and FOX 29’s Alex Holley eat at Wawa? We’ve got the answers to those burning questions right here.

And From the Ranger-Danger Sports Desk …

Ranger Suárez had all he needed and then some in a masterful performance last night against the Rockies. He pitched a baseball unicorn these days: a complete-game shutout. He only gave up seven hits, one walk and had eight strikeouts. And he got good offensive support for a change. J.T. Realmuto smacked a two-run homer in the first inning:

Dinger szn 🔔‼️

J.T. Realmuto puts the Phillies on the board first!

(via @Phillies)pic.twitter.com/SA3pvyr8F2

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) April 16, 2024

And Bryce Harper had an RBI double in the sixth and then a two-run homer in the eighth, just for fun.

Ring the bell, Bryce Harper! 🔔

(via @Phillies)pic.twitter.com/OCak78w0a4

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) April 17, 2024

There were some nifty defensive plays in the game as well. Gotta feel good about this one!

Shutout for Ranger #RingTheBell #MLB pic.twitter.com/xIKsNEeXfq

— Kyle Ross (@krr5045) April 17, 2024

One more against the Rockies tonight, starting at 6:05.

Any Sixers News?

Um, yeah. Tonight is also the big Sixers play-in game against the Heat. It’s at home, Joel is possible the last we heard, and tip-off is at 7 p.m. The season series, by the way, is tied at 2-2. Terry Rozier is officially out for the game for the Heat, which can only be a good thing for our guys. Wish it was Jimmy Butler, but what can you do?

The Flyers also played. And now they won’t anymore.

All Philly Today sports coverage is provided by Sandy Hingston.

A Chill-Meets-Cheeky Home Renovation on the Main Line

After living in their Main Line home for a few years, a couple with three school-age children decided it was time to remake their Penn Valley space. A large addition by Jack Burns Architecture gave them a new kitchen, family room and butler’s pantry, while a reshuffling moved their two daughters into separate bedrooms. Ardmore designer Randi Edelman, founder of boutique firm Remy Creative, was hired to bring all the new spaces together. “Their style is streamlined but also a little boho and edgy,” says Edelman. “You’ll see natural accents and materials to soften things up, but also unexpected pops in purposeful places, like modern art and bold wallpaper in bathrooms. Everything is pretty calm, but in the spaces where we could push things, we did.”

The addition made the house more functional and gave everyone their own space. And we reimagined the existing elements so they felt fresher.”

This chill-meets-cheeky mix is quickly becoming a hallmark of Edelman’s designs. After a career in events, hospitality and fashion, she followed her longtime dream and opened for business during the pandemic. Word of mouth has kept her busy — she’s completed nearly 70 projects to date.

“This is the fifth house I’ve done in this neighborhood,” she says. “My wallpaper hanger calls it ‘Randi Street.’”

The family room

This hangout area has two full walls of windows, new oak floors, built-ins,­ and a black granite fireplace. A Samsung Frame TV — which doubles as art when not being watched — is the focal point.

The kitchen

A new built-in bar and butler’s pantry provided ample storage room, which meant the kitchen design didn’t have to revolve around cabinets and open shelves. Instead, Edelman let the quartz backsplash and countertops (sourced at Cambria in King of Prussia)­ take center stage. “It freed us from visual clutter,” she says.

Boy’s bedroom

Redecorating the son’s room wasn’t in the original plan, but Edelman wanted to do something special for him. “He loves sports, specifically basketball, and gave me his favorite colors, so that’s where I started,” she says. She found art on Etsy and incorporated locker-themed side tables from Novogratz.

Girl’s bedroom

The wallpaper was already here, so Edelman updated the space with a macramé chandelier and rattan lamps, to keep things sweet but not too cutesy.

 

Published as “Habitat: Big Little Moments” in the April 2024 issue of Philadelphia magazine.

Just Listed: Refreshed Expanded Trinity in Bella Vista

In case you haven’t been paying attention, higher interest rates do not appear to have deterred house-hunters shopping in the lower and middle parts of the market. Houses in the suburbs with price tags under $1 million are selling fast, and those in the city are going almost as quickly.

It appears, however, that trinities may be a partial exception to this rule. Most of the trinities you’ve seen here over the past two months remain on the market while pricier (and larger) city homes have sold quickly.

This refreshed Bella Vista expanded trinity house for sale may join them, but I hope it doesn’t. While it has one element that could use a little work, it’s otherwise move-in ready, recently refreshed and conveniently located.

It sits just a few doors down and across the street from this trinity I featured last week. Like it, it has two bedrooms and one full bathroom.

The main floor contains a living room with an exposed brick accent wall. All the other walls in this house have a fresh coat of paint.

Note also the straight-line staircase. Getting your mattresses up to the two bedrooms won’t be a struggle here.

The kitchen and bathroom are in the rear ell.

The kitchen has brand-new cabinets and a brand-new range.

And the bathroom off the kitchen has been completely rebuilt.

Because the bathroom sits on the first floor, making it easy on your guests, the two upstairs bedrooms have plenty of space.

A roof deck sits off the one on the second floor.

If you haven’t noticed yet, the owner of this house has a fondness for colorful tile.

The top-floor primary bedroom gets natural light all day thanks to windows on its east and west sides. This means you can wake up and go to bed with the sun, particularly in the summer.

The one area that could use some work is the rear patio, which currently consists of crushed stone. This presents a great opportunity for a buyer to turn it into a green oasis.

The unfinished basement contains the laundry.

This refreshed Bella Vista expanded trinity house for sale is just as convenient to so many places as last week’s trinity up the block is. I’ll refer you to that article for a full list of what you can walk to from here.

And since it’s priced lower than its up-the-block neighbor, you will have money left over to spruce up its backyard.

THE FINE PRINT

BEDS: 2

BATHS: 1

SQUARE FEET: 1,020

SALE PRICE: $334,000

726 S. Percy St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 [Tami Dang | Realty Mark Associates]

Here’s What Our Favorite Philadelphians Order at Wawa

Over the years, we’ve asked countless notable Philadelphians what they order at Wawa. Hey, it’s just the kind of thing we do.

So in honor of Wawa’s 60th anniversary today, we thought we’d delve into the archives to find our favorites. Some of their answers weren’t particularly surprising (of course Cecily Tynan opts for wheat), while others, we weren’t really expecting.

Michael Solomonov, restaurateur

“My favorite Wawa menu item is a junior meatball sandwich on wheat with tomatoes, pepperoncinis and pickles, and parmesan cheese and provolone.”

Josh Shapiro, PA Governor

“Egg and cheese on a wheat Shorti with ketchup, apple slices, Wawa coffee, and a soft pretzel.”

Lê, Hop Sing Laundromat owner

“A ham-and-cheese but I tell them not to put too much ham on it. They don’t have a price for a half portion, but I will happily pay full price for a half portion.”

Chuck Peruto, criminal defense attorney

“The large meatball. Always. No cheese. No oregano.”

The Preston & Steve Cast, 93.3 WMMR

Preston Elliot: “Italian Shorti with provolone, tomatoes, hot peppers and mustard. And I usually grab a grapes, cheese & crackers pack.”

Steve Morrison: “Classic hoagie on wheat bread. Turkey. Swiss. Mayo. Onions. Oregano. Bottled water.”

Casey Boy: “Tabasco-flavored Monster Slim Jim, Italian Shorti, toasted with oil, vinegar, pickles and hot peppers. And Spicier Nacho Doritos — a small bag.”

Kathy Romano: “Turkey whole wheat Shorti with American cheese, a little bit of oil and vinegar, oregano. And then the seven things my son throws on the counter, because he thinks it’s a free-for-all!”

Marisa Magnatta: “Late-night grilled cheese: wheat bread, American cheese, Munster cheese, tomatoes, and a little bit of spicy mustard, toasted. Plus some crazy new chip flavor to snack on while I’m waiting. For a daytime or sober run, it’s just a water and two bags of apple slices.”

Nick McIlwain: “Turkey Classic, toasted, with spinach, tomato, Swiss cheese, honey mustard, salt, pepper, oregano and parmesan, a Wawa soft pretzel, a banana, diet orange soda, and a Wawa chocolate chip cookie.”

Jennifer “Fear” Zavala, restaurateur

“One cup of chicken noodle soup, a Shorti Italian wit’ pepper-jack, mayo, lil’ bit of oil and vinegar, onion, lettuce, jalapeños, black pepper, and jalapeño kettle chips. But my favorite items at Wawa are actually the Irish coffee creamer and the chicken noodle soup. Wawa fell off a lil’ — ever since they opened in Florida. Pretty much anything in the ‘baked goods’ case is fire — as in bomb, delish, banging, the heat, the good good.”

Alex Holley, Good Day Philadelphia co-host

“The Italian sub sandwich and a peach smoothie.” [Ed. Note: We didn’t feel it was our place to correct Holley on her use of the word “sub.” She’s not from here.]

Cecily Tynan, 6 ABC meteorologist

“A turkey Shorti on wheat.”

Michael Coard, attorney and activist

“The fresh fruit salad, because I’m vegan.”

Bobbi Booker, journalist

“Jalapeño-stuffed cheese pretzels and a 20-ounce coffee.”

Christine Flowers, conservative firebrand

“The chicken fingers over mashed potatoes and the chicken corn chowder, along with a caramel-chip Frappuccino thingie, which is not called a Frappuccino or a thingie but I don’t pay attention I just drink it. And sometimes the mozzarella sticks.”

Fergus “Fergie” Carey, bar owner

“A tuna Shorti with lettuce, tomato and sweet peppers, with some sort of Arnold Palmer to wash it down.”

Frank Olivieri, Pat’s Steaks owner

“Tuna provolone with lettuce, tomato, onion, hot pepper, and mayo. Usually a Shorti but sometimes I get that really mini one and that just satisfies me.”

Ian Morrison, a.k.a. drag queen Brittany Lynn

“Always a chicken salad Classic, toasted with American cheese, sweet peppers and pickles.”

Kate Marlys, Philly PR Girl owner

“Chicken salad with provolone cheese, lettuce and banana peppers, salt pepper and oregano. You simply can’t go wrong with Wawa‘s chicken salad! This has been my go-to order for years.”

Dwight Evans, Congressman

“My standard Wawa order is the newspaper. It used to be the small turkey hoagie, but I’m trying to cut back.”

Ryan Long, Jeopardy champ

“Those mozzarella sticks that have been sitting under the heater for ten hours.”

Casey Parker, restaurateur

“A sausage, egg and cheese classic with mayonnaise and bacon. Delicious. Usually for a hangover.”

Adam Joseph, 6 ABC meteorologist

“Grilled chicken on wheat with all the veggies you can get on there. And a cup of hot tea. I despise coffee. It’s one of the worst things on the planet.”

Eye-Catching Accessories Inspired by the Barnes Foundation’s Latest Exhibition

Any visit to the Barnes Foundation should include a stop at its gift shop, where merchandise manager Tia Bianchini curates collections inspired by the institution’s exhibitions, including “Alexey Brodovitch: Astonish Me.”

On view through May 19th, the exhibition highlights the visual impact the photographer, designer and instructor (who once worked at University of the Arts) had on magazines — particularly­ as art director of Harper’s Bazaar from 1934 to 1958.

At the shop, his surreal and playful layouts are honored in various must-buy pieces for you or anyone in your life who appreciates art — and magazines, of course.

Consider the silk scarf by Jessie Zhao. It features exaggerated urban and natural illustrations. “The scarf’s retro quality nods to both surrealism and high-fashion, and bridges vintage sensibility with contemporary flair,” says Bianchini.

Then there are the custom earrings and necklaces by Dconstruct Jewelry that bear look-at-me motifs (pictured above). Says Bianchini, “We supplied images of Brodovitch’s work in Harper’s Bazaar, targeted a few recurring motifs — namely the lips and eyes — and gave Dconstruct creative license to work them into a bold collection that still feels accessible.”

Among the other goods to snap up are paper vases by Octaevo and a coffee-table book about Harper’s Bazaar and some of the talents who have contributed to its pages over the years.

Go take a peek — at the shop and exhibit — here.

Published as “Creative Vision” in the April 2024 issue of Philadelphia magazine.