AOC’s Favorite Philly Cafe

How an unpretentious neighborhood coffee shop in Fairmount is becoming the go-to for politicos from the New York U.S. congresswoman to Mayor Parker to Tony Watlington

By Christine Speer Lejeune

The Quest to Raise Happier Kids

Why giving our city kids more freedom and independence is so vital … and how Philly, as a city, could help.

By Christine Speer Lejeune

Is Philly Ready for Disaster?

Climate change, mass attacks and environmental catastrophes have caused death and destruction nationwide. Here’s how our city is preparing for the unthinkable

By Christine Speer Lejeune
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Paul Levy

For his decades-long commitment to making Center City safe, clean and welcoming to all of us, the outgoing Center City District president is being honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award

By Christine Speer Lejeune
The Citizen Recommends

The 7th Ward Tribute

A sweeping public exhibition brings to life a remarkable (and remarkably under-appreciated) piece of Black history in Philadelphia

By Christine Speer Lejeune

“A Place Where Everyone Comes Together”

The architect of Central Park’s Edenic resurgence has retired to our own Rittenhouse Square, where he is the most well-versed park volunteer. Here’s what he thinks we can learn from NYC

By Christine Speer Lejeune

The Unbearable Cost of Togetherness

Low wages and growing inequality have put football games, the Shore, and so much more out of reach for regular Philadelphians. Can we get back what we have lost?

By Christine Speer Lejeune
Ideas We Should Steal

A History in Two Monuments

Now that South Philly’s Columbus Statue has been unboxed, can we find a healthier way to grapple with our monument issues, as they’ve done in Franklin, Tennessee?

By Christine Speer Lejeune

Help People Who Are Homeless in Philadelphia

More than 15 ways to make a difference in the lives of Philadelphians experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness

By Christine Speer Lejeune

How to Fight Food Insecurity in Philly

Donate peanut butter! Organize a food drive! Sort cans! Here are 15 simple things you can do now to help food insecure citizens of Philadelphia.

By Christine Speer Lejeune