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The Act of Consolidation helped South Philly to become a part of the City of Philadelphia proper in 1854. In the subsequent 158 years, who knows how many great memories its residents and visitors have formed? Imagining the total gives me great pride to call myself a South Philadelphian, and I hope these following selections let you appreciate that you have lived in or traveled to a very giving area.
1. The Italian Market
I believe even the snobbiest Parisian would find the market’s variety of cheeses astounding. The Bella Vista location has become a haven for other delicacies, too, and its influx of other ethnicities surely will further its reputation for offering exquisite choices.
2. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park
Set to turn 100 in 2014, this resource has garnered much-deserved praise for its dazzling offerings, including 15 fabulous tennis courts, where yours truly has experienced triumph and despair. The Packer Park spot hosted the nation’s Sesquicentennial Exposition in 1926 and certainly seems to be growing stronger with age.
3. The Mummers Parade
While South Philly cannot claim that it created the Mummers, NOBODY can deny that its residents have come to ensure the Mummers Parade’s success. Hey, hey, the gang’s all here, or so it seems!
4. Cheesesteaks
While I never indulge in cheesesteaks, I cannot knock people for their nutritional choices, reserving interjections for political discussions! Locals Pat and Harry Olivieri receive credit for creating the gooey goodie, and their bovine combination has never lacked for admirers. No matter where someone purchases one, the tradition of seeking a moooving experience will roll on.
5. The Spectrum
I grew tired of all of the name changes the Spectrum went through, favoring brevity when referring to the arena. I visited it often as a child, and though my appearances dwindled as I matured (I would like to think I am still maturing, wink, wink), any place that entertained so many through the efforts of amazing teams and performers must merit esteem. Rest in peace, dear friend.
6. South Street
I know many people who consider South Street only a hipster haven. While hipsters will not find themselves short on opportunities to enjoy themselves, anyone with an affinity for a great time will love the expanse.
7. Singers
Where to begin? Al Alberts, Marian Anderson, Frankie Avalon, Chubby Checker, Jim Croce, Fabian, Eddie Fisher, Charlie Gracie, Buddy Greco, Frank Guarrera, Mario Lanza, Al Martino and Bobby Rydell prove that stunning vocals seem to deem South Philly a potent place of origin.
8. The South Philly accent
I have encountered people who think South Philadelphians sound like Neanderthals because of our accents. To them, I say “What are you tawkin’ about?” just to give them a rise!
9. Veterans Stadium
Perhaps an odd choice, this venue certainly lacked pleasing aesthetics, but what it lacked in beauty, it made up for in serving as a symbol of South Philly’s “Never Say Die” attytood. I still recall the electricity from the Phillies’ 1993 run to the World Series. Another well-deserved “Rest in peace” to you, amigo.
10. South Philly Review
Hey, I know where my bread is buttered! Seriously, though, at 65 years old, the publication has captured tons of those numerous memories mentioned in my introduction. May your news and our staff continue to be fond friends.
Contact Staff Writer Joseph Myers at jmyers@southphillyreview.com or ext. 124.
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