Philadelphia’s hospitality workers rallied outside the Sheraton Hotel in Center City on Wednesday, highlighting their quest for new contracts as the city gears up for America’s 250th anniversary celebrations next year.
The event came in response to expired contracts affecting eight hotels throughout the city, with the union representing approximately 4,000 workers across various sectors, including hotels, stadiums, universities, and cafeterias.
In addition to labor actions, efforts are underway to address the lack of outdoor wireless access in Philadelphia.
The organization Philly Community Wireless is working to enhance connectivity in outdoor spaces, particularly near Norris Square Park.
This initiative aims to fill the gaps in indoor internet access that often do not extend into public outdoor areas.
A recent tour of the organization’s existing infrastructure showcased the critical need for outdoor Wi-Fi, described by its leaders as a vital right.
In other news across the city, various events and updates have transpired.
Governor Josh Shapiro criticized supporters of the ban on transgender athletes, referring to them as “extremist legislators,” while opting not to commit to whether he would veto such bans.
In a significant appointment, Mayor Parker announced the selection of former NBC10 anchor Renee Chenault-Fattah to lead Philadelphia’s civil rights agency.
Meanwhile, a recent auction led by a regional grid operator is projected to result in increased electricity bills for customers in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
A disturbing incident was reported involving a Philadelphia man accused of assaulting six individuals while they slept on the street outside the Pennsylvania Convention Center on July 4.
Additionally, a bill introduced by Councilmember Lozada aimed at banning mobile service units in most of Kensington’s 7th District will not take effect on its originally scheduled date—Sunday, July 27—as the city is still finalizing the application process for permit approval.
Looking back at initiatives born from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Barnes Foundation is now sharing its online education technology by licensing it to other institutions.
In more light-hearted news, the public is invited to help name a new flock of eight bird-shaped boats at FDR Park.
As for Mayor Parker, she has no public events on her docket for today.
Looking ahead, Philadelphians can look forward to several engaging events over the next few days.
Starting on July 24, the inaugural North Philly History Fest will unfold.
Also, an Open Streets Passeggiata is scheduled for Thursday, July 24, transforming the 1800 block of East Passyunk Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly party featuring local businesses, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere from 5 to 9 p.m.
For those eager to embrace the holiday spirit, Christmas in July will kick off at RiverRink Summerfest on Friday, July 25, complete with festive drinks, Santa, and the Grinch, along with a preview of Winterfest magic from 5 to 7 p.m.
Another exciting musical event on Friday, July 25, is the Make The World Better Concert featuring Lucy Dacus alongside Hop Along and Jay Som, with tickets priced at $79, starting at 5:30 p.m.
Art enthusiasts can participate in Art Battle Philadelphia on the same day, where artists will create masterpieces in a race against time from 6 to 10 p.m.
For those interested in a unique magic show experience, Smokus Pocus will take place on Friday, July 25, from 8 to 9:15 p.m. with tickets starting at $40.25.
From July 25-27, Yards Brewing will host its Christmas in July celebration, featuring seasonal specialties, live music, and festive cheer, available for guests 21 and older.
On Saturday, July 26, the Philadelphia Dance Day will invite community members to engage in free dance workshops and social dancing, culminating in a showcase later in the evening.
Additionally, Franklin Fitness Day at the museum will be a takeover event offering various sports clinics and activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Throughout the weekend, the Philly Zoo will also celebrate Christmas in July with Santa available for photos included with zoo admission.
For those who enjoy exploration, the Old Philly Trolley Walk will guide participants through colorful neighborhoods from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 26.
Lastly, starting and finishing at Broad and Arch Streets, the Streets Dept Excursion: Trolley Tour of North Broad will give patrons an opportunity to view murals and public art from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
As Philadelphia continues to move forward with its hospitality sector negotiations and community initiatives, citizens are encouraged to engage actively in upcoming events and support local labor movements pushing for fair contracts.
image source from：billypenn
