Mayor Nutter, City Councilman Oh Partner on Legislation to Toughen Penalties for Vandalism on Public Art and Monuments

Philadelphia, May 31, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter has offered legislation, introduced today by City Councilman David Oh, that toughens the penalties, both fines and potential incarceration, on those who vandalize or damage public art and memorials, including those that honor military, police, firefighters and other national defense or public safety subjects.

On Memorial Day, Mayor Nutter announced during ceremonies at memorials to fallen veterans that he would send this legislation to City Council this week.

“I’ve been in regular contact with the veterans who maintain the All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers and Sailors, the Korean and Vietnam veterans memorials and others monuments and other veterans groups about how we can better maintain these places that honor heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Their stories about vandalism and damage at these and other sacred memorials raised serious questions,” said Mayor Nutter. “Councilman Oh and I want to send a very strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated. We’re doing that by substantially increasing the penalties for vandalizing or damaging these monuments and public works of art and by prohibiting people from using their skateboards, rollerblades and bikes in a way that damages these memorials.”

The bill prohibits skateboarding, rollerblading and bicycling on monuments and public art and would make this new offense punishable with a maximum fine of $2,000, up to 90 days in jail for adults and confiscation of the skateboard, rollerblades or bike. The ordinance also eliminates the lower penalty level for ethnic intimidation and institutional vandalism, making all violations subject to a maximum $2,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

“Philadelphia is a city with deep historical and cultural roots, and protecting our public spaces, historical landmarks, memorials and outdoor public artwork is essential to maintaining that aspect of our city’s image” said Councilman At-Large David Oh. “I was happy to introduce an ordinance today on behalf of Mayor Nutter so that we can better combat vandalism and public nuisances around these precious assets that are meant to be enjoyed by those who call Philadelphia their home as well as visitors to our great city.”

Mayor Nutter To Kick-Off the Fun Safe Philly Summer Campaign

Launches Fun Safe Philly Summer Service and Reading Challenges.

Philadelphia, May 23, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter announced the launch of the Fun Safe Philly Summer campaign, a summer-long effort to involve and engage Philadelphia youth in structured programming, drop-in activities and the Summer Meals Program. The kick-off coincides with the update to the youth programming website, which will serve as a one-stop information hub for available summer activities for all ages.

“Summer is certainly a time to relax and enjoy a break from school. But it is also an invaluable opportunity for our young people to be active and engaged in fun and enriching programming,” said Mayor Nutter. “Fun Safe Philly Summer is an all-encompassing campaign aimed at promoting available structured programs and encouraging involvement in drop-in activities, as a way to ensure young people are spending their time productively.”

Fun Safe Philly Summer is collaborative project across City agencies, departments and external partners.
For summer 2012, the City of Philadelphia has identified more than 15,000 structured summer program spots for youth, including up to 8,000 slots at 140 Department of Parks and Recreation sites. Paired with structured programming, the City is also promoting participation in drop-in activities at recreation centers, public libraries, pools, KEYSPOT computer centers and more.

“This summer, the City of Philadelphia is taking a proactive approach to helping kids and teens create their own summer program,” said Deputy Mayor for Environmental and Community Resources Michael DiBernardinis . “Drop-in activities, like visiting one of the 54 public library branches, swimming at one of 70 public pools or playing at a neighborhood recreation center, can be enriching and safe options for spending your summer.”

Susan Slawson, First Deputy Commissioner for Recreation and Programs said, “The Department of Parks and Recreation offers affordable, fun and safe summer opportunities for youth of all ages in neighborhoods throughout the City. Our programs serve the diverse needs of our youth no matter their interest; such as the arts, athletics, outdoor education or computer classes.”

As part of Fun Safe Philly Summer, the City is working with Philadelphia Youth Network (PYN) on the Save Summer Jobs program. Save Summer Jobs identifies and reaches out to local businesses to create jobs or internships for young people.

Mayor Nutter also introduced the Summer Service and Summer Reading Challenge, which offers incentives to young people who read and/or volunteer this summer. Challenge participants can pick up and drop off forms at any branch of the Free Public Library. The challenges are:
• The Summer Reading Challenge is open to youth ages 5 to 18. Participants will read three books and complete book reports.
• The Summer Service Challenge is open to older youth, ages 14-18. Participants will volunteer at least three service events, completing no less than 10 service hours.

Participants, who complete the challenges, will be entered in to a raffle drawing including donated tickets from the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Philadelphia Zoo, as well as American Idol concert tickets and WWE Wrestling tickets. Each winner will reach two tickets. The grand prize is two tickets to Power 99’s 30th Annual Powerhouse concert in October.

“Fun Safe Philly Summer capitalizes on the importance of providing young people with positive and engaging activities. This will not only help to keep youth engaged but also safe during the summer months,” said Philadelphia Youth Commission Executive Director Jamira Burley. “As a commission that represents the interest of youth between the ages of 12 and 23, the Philadelphia Youth Commission recognizes the need to provide youth with various forms of engagement. When young people are involved in these kinds of activities, they are more likely to stay engaged in positive activities throughout the year.”

The Fun Safe Philly Summer campaign also encourages enrollment in the Summer Food Service Program, a federally funded program that serves breakfast, lunch and snacks to children 18 years of age and younger and mentally and physically challenged persons who are enrolled in specialized programs. The Summer Food Service Program begins on June 18, 2012.

In 2011, the Summer Food Service Program served 2.8 million meals to about 90,000 Philadelphians. However, an additional 41,000 children were eligible to receive food services but were not registered. Meals are served at nearly 1,000 sites across the City, including recreation centers, playgrounds, Play Streets, summer camps, community organizations and schools and daycare centers.

Mayor Nutter also reminded parents, caregivers and youth that the summer curfew will go into effect when the school year ends on June 14, 2012. The curfew times are as follows:
• 13 years old and younger, 9 pm;
• 14 and 15, 10 pm; and
• 16 and 17, 11 pm.

For more information on summer youth programming options and for a full list of program start dates and times, call 3-1-1 or log on to www.phila.gov/youthprograms. Follow Fun Safe Philly Summer on Twitter @PhillySummer or on Tumblr at www.funsafephillysummer.tumblr.com.

Mayor Nutter To Attend International Council Of Shopping Centers Convention Pitch Philadelphia To Major Retailers

Philadelphia, May 18, 2012 – On Sunday, Mayor Michael A. Nutter will travel to the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) RECon 2012 Global Retail Real Estate Convention in Las Vegas. The Mayor will meet with major retailers, sell Philadelphia, and encourage them to establish or expand their operations in the city. Mayor Nutter will also take part in a panel discussion with other U.S. mayors on rebuilding, revitalizing and redeveloping America’s cities.

“Philadelphia is attracting top talent, building new sectors and opening businesses throughout the city. Companies and people are increasingly looking at Philadelphia as a smart choice for investment, and we must be relentless as we sell the benefits of locating in our city,” said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “I intend to be very aggressive in telling our story, promoting our city, and bringing jobs and investment to Philly. It’s not enough to wait for people to knock on our door and tell us they’re interested. We need to go out there, grab them and bring them here.”

In his 2012 Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce address, Mayor Nutter spoke about aggressively positioning Philadelphia as a city of growth and a natural location for increased investment, from the United States and around the world. Over the next 12-18 months, the Nutter Administration anticipates planning international trips, including to the United Kingdom, China, and South America, to promote Philadelphia, build new relationships with international companies, and attract new investment and jobs.

Mayor Nutter’s attendance at the ICSC 2012 RECon is a component of this aggressive business attraction strategy. At the conference, the Mayor will meet with more than twenty major retailers and property developers to discuss a range of options from establishing a presence in Philadelphia to making a final location decision at a specific property in the city. RECon is the world’s largest gathering of retail real estate professionals attracting a worldwide audience of 30,000 attendees.

Mayor Michael A. Nutter ICSC itinerary
DATE ACTIVITY DETAILS
Sunday AM Fly to Las Vegas

Sunday 6:30 – 9:30PM Attend ICSC Foundation Gala The ICSC Foundation will hold its annual fundraising gala, hosted this year by comedian Dennis Miller. The ICSC Foundation supports the shopping center industry through altruistic community outreach and educational scholarships.
Monday 9 – 11:00AM Philadelphia Breakfast Mayor Nutter will attend and address a ‘Philadelphia Breakfast’ hosted by PREIT attended by representatives from a wide range of major retailers.
Monday 11:00AM – 4:00PM Retailer meetings Mayor Nutter will meet with a range of major retailers and developers to discuss the benefits of establishing or expanding their presence in Philadelphia.
Monday 4 – 5:00PM Mayor’s Panel Discussion Mayor Nutter will participate in a panel discussion entitled ‘America’s Cities – Rebuilding,
Revitalizing, Redeveloping’.
Tuesday AM Return to Philadelphia

Philadelphia Cultrual Fund Announces Recipient of Youth Arts Enrichment Grants And Also Marks 20th Anniversary

Philadelphia, May 17, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter kicked off the year-long celebration of the Philadelphia Cultural Fund’s 20th Anniversary by presenting a proclamation to Cultural Fund board chair Sara Garonzik. In addition, Mayor Nutter and the Philadelphia Cultural Fund (PCF) proudly announced the recipients of the organization’s Youth Arts Enrichment Grants – created to support projects and programs that use the arts to enrich the lives of young people both in and out of school.

“The Youth Arts Enrichment Grants go to the heart of what’s needed across our city and region – the opportunity to provide exposure and knowledge of arts and culture to those who will benefit most – our youth,” said Mayor Nutter. “It’s just this kind of experience that has the capacity to change lives. And as the next generation, it’s that exposure and knowledge which will ultimately give Philadelphia the greatest return on its investment – enabling underserved young people to follow their dreams and keep our cultural community vital, thriving and exciting. I am pleased to be able to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this essential and important source of funding for arts, culture and the creative economy in the City of Philadelphia.”

June O’Neill, Manager of the Cultural Fund, added, “Next week, we will have a gathering of people who have served on the board during the past 20 years, and throughout the next 12 months we will be commemorating this milestone in small, fun ways.”

The grants, totaling $100,000, are $25,000 each and will support youth focused programming at four cultural organizations: Centro Nueva Creación, Settlement Music School, Village of Arts and Humanities and the Wagner Free Institute. The goals of the Youth Arts Engagement Grants include:
• Providing high quality arts instruction, training and participatory experiences that serve those young people most in need, who are unlikely to have access to cultural enrichment;
• Providing consistent programming that directly impacts the reduction of youth violence, truancy and drop out rates, while increasing the number of graduations and college-bound students; and
• Encouraging arts and cultural programming as an alternative activity for youth in after-school, weekend and summer programs.

Gary Steuer, the City’s Chief Cultural Officer and Director of the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, commented, “This is an initiative that has had the full support and encouragement of my Office. We know that active participation in arts programs has an array of positive outcomes for our youth – it helps them become better learners and citizens; it can also give them hope and optimism, often pointing the way to a more productive life path. The Youth Arts Enrichment Grants program provides critical support to some of the strongest sources of arts engagement services to our young people. Now more than ever, we need to make sure that we are investing in the role the arts can play, and the impact it can have, in making a better life for our youth.”

“Everyone at the Cultural Fund was impressed by the excellent work being done by the recipients selected this year,” said Sara Garonzik, President of the Cultural Fund Board and Producing Artistic Director of Philadelphia Theatre Company. “We were fortunate to have a strong and varied pool of applicants and we offer our greatest thanks to the grants panel for conducting a thorough and thoughtful review process that lead to the selections.”

The four Youth Arts Enrichment Grants recipients were chosen by peer review panel through an open application process. Eligible arts and culture organizations in Philadelphia may apply for grants by completing and submitting an application form which is available online at the Fund’s website. Applications are reviewed once each year. Professionals in the arts and culture community volunteer each year to serve as peer panelists. This year’s panelists include: Moira Baylson, Deputy Cultural Officer, City of Philadelphia; Dennis W. Creedon, Deputy Chief, Academic Enrichment and Support, School District of Philadelphia; Amy Hodgdon, Education Director, Philadelphia Young Playwrights; Virginia Lam, Content Specialist – Art Education, Office of Academic Enrichment and Support, School District of Philadelphia; Nathea Lee, Executive Director, Kulu Mele African Drum and Dance Ensemble; Varissa McMickens, Executive Director, Arts Rising; Pearl Schaeffer, Executive Director, Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership; Nancy Shaw, former Director of Education, People’s Light and Theatre Co.; Jennifer Turnbull, teaching artist; and Tessie Vathas, Content Specialist – Art Education, Office of Academic Enrichment and Support, School District of Philadelphia

For more information on PCF, the Youth Arts Enrichment Grants program or access to the recipients, please contact June O’Neill at 267.242.8150 or by email at june@philaculturalfund.org.

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About the Philadelphia Cultural Fund

The Philadelphia Cultural Fund (PCF) is a non-profit corporation established by Philadelphia’s Mayor and City Council in 1991 to support and enhance the cultural life and vitality of the City of Philadelphia and its residents. The PCF’s mission is to support and enhance the cultural life and vitality of the City of Philadelphia and its residents, and to promote arts and culture as engines of social and economic development in the Philadelphia region. Since FY1993-1994, the PCF has distributed more than $33,700,000 in city funding to arts and culture organizations throughout our region.

2012 Youth Arts Enrichment Grant Recipients

Centro Nueva Creación

Centro Nueva Creación’s after school program serves 50 children in kindergarten through 5th grade. All students enrolled in the after school program participate in the Goodlands photography program. Centro will increase the rigor of its Goodlands photography program by implementing Goodlands in Focus: A Children’s Photography Program (GIF). GIF will expand on what Centro does best – employing photography as the means to provide children in North Philadelphia with experiences that enable them to develop a personal voice and a positive identity that will contribute to their success both in and out of school.

Through GIF, Centro students will participate in weekly, forty-five minute, project-based photography workshops. Each project unit will be 3 – 6 weeks long. Each workshop will contain a teacher to student ratio of 1 to 12. Workshops will be implemented by a resident teaching artist, and Centro’s staff and youth volunteers will participate in these workshops in order to understand how to implement supplemental lessons throughout the week that connect to the photography lessons.

www.goodlands.org

Settlement Music School

Settlement Music School will run its “Widening the Stage” Program (WTS). WTS is an expansion of the School’s existing programs, which will expand learning and performance opportunities for a newly-formed cohort of up to 80 talented, low-income students who are seeking to study and practice music.

The goal of this Program will not only be to create better musicians, but to foster aspirations and habits of excellence that will build confidence and self-esteem, make students who are more accountable to their teachers, less apt to engage in truancy, and more likely to graduate from high school and seek higher education. Through a generous grant by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, a prestigious national grant that only six organizations around the country received, and anticipated tuition revenue, WTS is 92% funded.

www.smsmusic.org

The Village of Arts and Humanities

The Village of Arts and Humanities will produce and publish its new community-driven youth arts magazine titled CRED. Amplifying the voice and vision of young Philadelphia, CRED features work submitted through an open call by artists and writers across the region under the age of 25. Published 3 times per year, CRED is edited, designed and produced by a team of enterprising teens and young adults at The Village, resulting in a new platform that documents and articulates the youth experience through a unique peer-based process.

For the 84-page inaugural issue, CRED received over 300 entries of artwork, journalism and poetry from young people across the region, and secured outreach support from 17 institutional partners including KIPP Charter School, ArtsRising, PhillyCAM, the Free Library, and local art schools. CRED aims to dismantle neighborhood, social class and education boundaries by being inclusive of all creative organizations that work with young people and focusing specifically on celebrating the individual artwork, not the institutions. Collaborative workshops and programs that stem from ideas and recommendations from CRED contributors will further increase the capacity of young people to produce well-formed critical writing and creative output related to their artistic interests, reaching 300 teens and young adults each year.

villagearts.org

The Wagner Free Institute of Science (WFIS)

The WFIS will develop and launch “SNAP”: Science, Nature and Art in Philadelphia, a new out-of-school time science and art program for middle school students in the WFIS’s North Philadelphia community. The project aims to increase children’s scientific literacy and creative aptitude through participation in innovative after-school and summer programming. The program activities, led by WFIS staff and artist/scientists, will be based in the natural sciences, infused with art, and culminate in the production of art projects and exhibits. This new program will build on the success of WFIS’s award-winning GeoKids program, an intensive natural science curriculum for grades 1 to 5 at four North Philadelphia schools. SNAP will extend the GeoKids experience to 6th, 7th and 8th graders at the partner schools and beyond the school day to after-school and summertime.

www.wagnerfreeinstitute.org

Statement From Mayor Nutter

Philadelphia, May 17, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter released the following statement on the death of performer Donna Summer:

“The City of Philadelphia and the music world are deeply saddened by the passing of an incredibly talented musical artist, Donna Summer. For people in my generation and many others, she was one of the greatest vocalists of the second half of the 20th Century. An innovator of note, she had a wide range of musical capabilities. She was one of the leaders of the Disco wave in America and Europe, and she broke new musical ground with songs like ‘Love to Love You Baby’, ‘Bad Girls’, ‘MacArthur Park Suite’, and ‘Hot Stuff’.

“Whether performing alone or in duets with talents like Barbara Streisand, Donna Summer was one of the very best. I loved her music, her beautiful voice, and her grand musical talent.

“For a young guy working in a night club at the high point of Disco and for everyone who came together in those days of joyful music and dance, she represented a singular musical style and a towering artistry. We all carry fond memories of Donna Summer.”

JAY Z To Curate, Headline ‘BUDWEISER MADE IN AMERICA’ MUSIC Festival in Philadelphia This Labor Day Weekend

Philadelphia, May 14, 2012 – Shawn “JAY Z” Carter, Budweiser and United Way today announced “Budweiser Made in America,” an exciting, two-day music festival in Philadelphia this Labor Day weekend to benefit United Way and produced by Live Nation.

JAY Z will curate and headline the blockbuster roster of talent, which will include nearly 30 artists that embody the American spirit performing across three stages on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park on Saturday, Sept. 1, and Sunday, Sept. 2.

The eclectic roster of talent cultivated by JAY Z will be announced on May 21 and include acts ranging from rock, hip-hop, R&B, Latin and dance.

Tickets for “Budweiser Made in America” music festival go on sale Wednesday, May 23, through Ticketmaster.com and Livenation.com. A limited number of 2-day tickets will be available for $99 (plus service charges). Budweiser Facebook fans will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, May 22. To become a Budweiser Facebook fan, please visit www.facebook.com/Budweiser.

“This Labor Day, we will not only make history but we’re benefiting a great organization. ‘Budweiser Made in America’ will encompass every genre of music, creating and showcasing the only genre that matters, ‘great music.’ Budweiser and Live Nation are going to produce an amazing two days of performances, and it’s great to partner with United Way again to support all of the positive work they do in the community,” said Shawn “JAY Z” Carter.

The festival in Philadelphia will culminate following a summer of music parties in cities all across America, when Budweiser will invite its Facebook fans to experience talented local bands and artists. Budweiser, brewed across America, has a decades-long history of celebrating great American music.

“This festival will offer music fans from across the U.S. and beyond the biggest names in hip-hop, rock, dance and other popular genres this Labor Day,” said Rob McCarthy, vice president of Budweiser for Anheuser-Busch.

“Philadelphia is delighted to welcome visitors from around the country for a national music festival,” said Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “United Way has brought JAY Z and Budweiser together to host this national event in the birthplace of America. We are excited to invite the musicians, sponsors, guests and festivals goers for a memorable weekend.”

A primary goal of this music festival is to have a positive impact on the communities involved. This concert will benefit United Ways in Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, Lancaster County, PA and New York City, enabling them to invest more dollars into their regions, strengthening local communities and improving lives. As a result of this concert, the money invested into these communities will positively impact the education, income and health of the most vulnerable and most needy citizens in these regions.
Budweiser Made in America also will be available for consumers around the country to watch via live-streaming. Details will be announced at a later date.

The event is the latest chapter in Budweiser’s long association with music, which includes memorable Rolling Stones tours and Budweiser SuperFest, which was headlined by Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and other music legends.

About SHAWN “JAY Z” CARTER
Since 1996, 14-time Grammy award winner, Shawn “JAY Z ” Carter has dominated the evolution of hip-hop. Between multiple businesses and accolades spanning the recording industry to global investment leaders such as Warren Buffet, JAY Z personifies the “American Dream.” The Founder and Chairman of Rocawear is a co-owner of the NJ Nets and has a major interest in Carol’s Daughter skin line, as well being involved in a partnership with the Iconix Brand Group. JAY Z served as President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, where he fostered the careers of international stars Rihanna, Ne-Yo and Kanye West before entering into a partnership with Live Nation, forming the entertainment company, Roc Nation. With his collaborative effort with Kanye West, WATCH THE THRONE, his 12th #1 album, he has secured the record for most #1 albums by any solo artist. JAY Z continues his philanthropic work through his Water For Life initiative and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation.

About BUDWEISER
Budweiser, an American-style lager, was introduced in 1876 when company founder Adolphus Busch set out to create the United States’ first truly national beer brand – brewed to be universally popular and transcend regional tastes. Each batch of Budweiser follows the same family recipe used by five generations of Busch family brewmasters. Budweiser is a medium-bodied, flavorful, crisp and pure beer with blended layers of premium American and European hop aromas, brewed for the perfect balance of flavor and refreshment.

Budweiser is made in America at 12 U.S. breweries using time-honored methods including “kraeusening” for natural carbonation and Beechwood aging, which results in unparalleled balance and character.

About Live Nation
Live Nation Entertainment is the world’s leading live entertainment and ecommerce company, comprised of four market leaders: Ticketmaster.com, Live Nation Concerts, Front Line Management Group and Live Nation Network. Ticketmaster.com is the global event ticketing leader and one of the world’s top five ecommerce sites, with almost 27 million monthly unique visitors. Live Nation Concerts produces over 22,000 shows annually for more than 2,300 artists globally. Front Line is the world’s top artist management company, representing over 250 artists. These businesses power Live Nation Network, the leading provider of entertainment marketing solutions, enabling nearly 800 advertisers to tap into the 200 million consumers Live Nation delivers annually through its live event and digital platforms. For additional information,visit www.livenation.com/investors.

About United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey
United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, an organization that will be formed July 1, 2012 as the result of a merger of 7 local United Ways, is part of a national network of more than 1,300 locally governed organizations that work to create lasting positive changes in communities and in people’s lives. United Way engages the community to identify the underlying causes of the most significant local issues, develops strategies and pulls together financial and human resources to address them, and measures the results. United Way is advancing the common good in Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey by focusing on education, income, and health.

Mayor Nutter Announces Green 2015 Pilot Program to Green Schools and Recreation Centers

New public-private partnership envisions major expansion of public green space

Philadelphia, May 10, 2012– In a major step forward for the “greening” of public spaces in Philadelphia, Mayor Michael A. Nutter formally announced today that the City and a national conservation group will partner with the School District to green as many as 10 school yards and recreation centers starting this spring.

The new groundbreaking initiative marks the second phase of the City’s innovative Green 2015 Action Plan. It was announced at the William Dick Elementary School, which will partner with the adjacent Hank Gathers Recreation Center in North Philadelphia on a pilot project to significantly expand green space for public use. In addition to the School District, Green2015 partners include the Philadelphia Water Department, the Department of Parks and Recreation, national conservation non-profit The Trust for Public Land and the Mural Arts Program.

“This is an exciting collaboration for the City of Philadelphia,” said Mayor Nutter. “Working with our partners, we will be able to green places where our children play. Making Philadelphia the greenest city in America involves infrastructure changes and creating healthy, sustainable spaces. However, it is also about educating our children about the environment so that they are prepared to care for it in the future. I am confident these improved school yards and recreation centers will do all of the above.”

The partnership will initially focus on redesigning and redeveloping the William Dick Elementary Schoolyard, Hank Gathers Recreation Center and Collazo Park, with additional recreation centers and schoolyards to be announced in the coming months based on the success of the pilot. One major advantage of the partnership is that it allows the City and the School District to pool limited public resources to focus on areas where public schools and City recreation centers are located close to each other.

The partnership also leverages federally-mandated stormwater management funds, committed state funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conversation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and private philanthropy raised by The Trust for Public Land from the William Penn Foundation, MetLife Foundation, National Recreation Foundation, and others. The TPS Foundation is also providing support to incorporate public art at various sites as part of the overall initiative.

The William Penn Foundation was one of the original supporters of the planning and public engagement effort to draft the Green2015 Action Plan and is now providing significant resources for the pilot project. “This program represents a triple bottom line for Philadelphia. It cuts down on paved surfaces, which helps to keep heavy rains from washing pollutants into our water supply,” said Janet Haas, M.D., the Board Chair of the William Penn Foundation. “It repurposes existing city property, putting assets we already own to better use. And it brings communities together in attractive public spaces around their schools and recreation centers. In a time of economic scarcity, that level of impact is no small feat.”

When fully implemented, the project envisions the greening of 10 school playgrounds and City recreation centers at a total cost of $9 million, about two-thirds of which would be met through combination of State, City, and School District sources. The Trust for Public Land is leading the effort to raise private funds to leverage public funding from the City and School District, and will also be establishing a stewardship fund to assist local organizations with maintenance and programming for each site.

“When we launched the Green2015 action plan last year, our goal was to chart a course for action that would make our city more equitable, livable, and competitive. Now we stand in partnership to make good on that goal through the greening and connecting of our community assets, parks and recreation centers and schoolyards,” said Michael DiBerardinis, Deputy Mayor, Environmental & Community Resources/Parks and Recreation Commissioner. “With this partnership and the community, these sites will provide children and families with places for recreation and increase the attractiveness of our neighborhoods—all by taking affordable steps to transform land into publicly accessible green space. Green 2015 is a smart choice, makes sense for Philadelphia, and we look forward to engaging with many partners to advance this work.”

Pedro Ramos, Chair of the School Reform Commission said, “When schools, communities, and local agencies work together as we’re doing in the Green 2015 project, we’re given a unique opportunity to maximize value all around us. The children and everyone participating in this project are learning why it’s important to care about public spaces like city parks, school yards, and neighborhood playgrounds. At a time when the District must make the very best use of limited financial resources, this project offers the potential to provide cost-effective new ways to improve the quality of life in our city by creating more publicly accessible green space and protecting the environment at the same time.”

Water Commissioner Howard Neukrug shared the Water Department’s enthusiasm for Green2015. “If we want to change the world, we need to begin by nurturing the seeds for change at our schools. The city’s children – our children – are the true stewards of a sustainable future for Philadelphia. Our children need to grow and thrive amongst trees and green play spaces to truly learn about and value the elements of the natural world that clean our air, manage our stormwater and provide those precious spaces of beauty in our urban environment. PWD is thrilled to be working with its Green2015 partners – PPR, TPL and Mural Arts – to leverage our shared resources to collectively transform schools and adjacent public spaces into green acres that ultimately renew our rivers and streams.”

Because one in eight Philadelphians does not have a public park or playground within walking distance of their home, the Green2015 plan outlines the opportunity to link the City’s twin goals of increasing outdoor recreational spaces and improving stormwater management through the creation of parks, playgrounds, and other recreational areas with green elements.

The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national non-profit conservation organization that conserves land for people and is the nation’s leader in creating parks in cities. TPL is dedicated to ensuring that everyone—in particular every child—enjoys easy access to a park, playground, or open space.

Through its Parks for People–Philadelphia program, The Trust for Public Land will play a key role implementing the Green2015 Initiative of Mayor Nutter’s Greenworks Philadelphia sustainability plan, helping transform 500 acres of land into neighborhood green playspaces by 2015. TPL will work with the City of Philadelphia to identify existing schoolyards and recreation centers as prime opportunities for conversion into greened play spaces and recreation areas, thereby providing healthy, outdoor recreational resources for all Philadelphia residents, especially children.

“The renovation of urban parks and playgrounds and the creation of green spaces that allow city dwellers to connect with nature and lead healthier lives is a high priority for The Trust for Public Land,” said Will Rogers, president of TPL. “Clearly, the City has the same priorities and understands the importance of this work. We are glad to be working in a strong multi-level partnership with Mayor Michael Nutter’s office, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, the School District of Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Water Department, other public partners, and local communities. Win-win partnerships like these get real traction and deliver on-the-ground results.”

Community engagement will be a critical element of The Trust for Public Land’s unique design process; teams of Philadelphia students, city and school staff, and community members will be involved throughout the design process—evaluating existing conditions, selecting new amenities and play equipment, and developing use and maintenance plans—to ensure that the parks and play¬grounds meet the needs of the communities they serve and are safe, accessible resources.

“We believe in the power of art to unleash new possibilities, create common ground, and bring together people through transformative projects,” said Philadelphia Mural Arts Program executive director Jane Golden. “Mural Arts is thrilled to be part of this public-private partnership, and looks forward to working with all of our partners and the community to create engaging, sustainable spaces for youth.”

MAYOR NUTTER PRESENTS TICKETS TO MAYOR’S VIPS

Philadelphia, April 27, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter presented 165 Philadelphia students with two tickets each as part of the Mayor’s VIP Program, which provides tickets to sporting events to students to inspire their success in school. For this quarter, the Mayor’s VIPs program is awarding tickets to juniors from private, public and parochial schools who have been deemed “most involved” by their teachers and faculty.

“Learning is not limited to a classroom. Learning is a continual process. It happens when students get involved in their schools and participate in after school activities, sports and clubs. Today, I am proud to celebrate in the accomplishment of the “Most Involved” juniors in our City,” said Mayor Nutter. “I also want to thank Drexel University for hosting the Mayor’s VIPs at their great institution.”

In addition to tickets to the Mayor’s box in Citizens Bank Park, the Philadelphia Union and the Philadelphia Soul will provide tickets to games for the Mayor’s VIPs. For the 2011-2012 school year, 1090 tickets have been distributed through the Mayor’s VIPs Program. Through 2008, 3870 tickets have been distributed to students.

Mayor Nutter, Council President Clarke Announce Applications Open for Commission on Parks and Recreation

Applications must be submitted by May 9, 2012.

Philadelphia, March 30, 2012– Mayor Michael A. Nutter together with Council President Darrell Clarke announced that the City Council of Philadelphia is currently accepting applications to serve on the Commission on Parks and Recreation. The Commission was created as part of the amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, approved by the voters on November 4, 2008, which merged the Fairmount Park Commission and the Recreation Department to create the new Department of Parks and Recreation.

“This Commission is responsible for setting written standards and guidelines for land use, green space preservation, and the acquisition, sale or lease of park land and recreation facilities,” said Mayor Nutter. “I am asking committed citizens who share my vision for a strong and sustainable park and recreation system to submit an application and help shape the future of Philadelphia’s parks and recreation areas.”

Council President Darrell Clarke and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown sponsored the legislation putting the Charter Change before the voters. “We were amazed and humbled by the extraordinary quality and sheer number of applicants to serve on the Commission in 2009,” said Council President Darrell L. Clarke. “I know Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, my co-sponsor on the legislation establishing the Parks & Recreation Department, joins Councilwoman Bass and me in encouraging Philadelphians to become more actively involved with their City.”

The Commission is composed of 15 members: nine appointed by the Mayor from a list of nominations submitted by City Council and compiled from applications received; and six “ex officio” members – the Commissioners of the Departments of Parks and Recreation, Water, Streets, and Public Property; the City Council President; and the Executive Director of the City Planning Commission.

“It is very important that the Fairmount Park Commission be diverse and represent citizens from all over the City,” said Councilwoman Cindy Bass, Chair of Council’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs Committee. “I strongly encourage people to participate in the nomination process no matter their neighborhood or background.”

There are nine positions to be filled and current Commissioners interested in continuing to serve must reapply for consideration. A Commission appointment is a volunteer, unpaid position, and appointed Commissioners will serve four-year terms. Under the Charter’s general provision concerning boards and commissions, members of the Commission must be residents of Philadelphia or Pennsylvania counties adjacent to Philadelphia (Bucks, Delaware, and Montgomery).
Application forms can be found at www.phila.gov, the Office of City Council’s Chief Clerk (Room 402 City Hall), Free Library of Philadelphia branches, City recreation centers, and Fairmount Park facilities. Interested applicants must submit an application by May 9, 2012 to be considered.

Mayor Nutter, Streets Department Kick off Countdown to Philly Spring Clean Up

Philadelphia, March 6, 2012 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter and the Philadelphia Streets Department kicked off the countdown to the 5^th Annual Philly Spring Cleanup on April 14^th (rain date April 28^th). Starting today, residents can volunteer for a Philly Spring Cleanup project online at www.phillyspringcleanup.com. The press conference was held a McPherson Square Park in order to highlight ongoing revitalization efforts there.

“I’m continually inspired by what we achieve every year during the Philly Spring Cleanup,” said Mayor Nutter. “Thousands of volunteers, hundreds of projects and millions of pounds of trash and recycling have been collected over the last four years. We’ve accomplished a lot, but I know we can do better this year. In honor of the Philly Spring Cleanup’s fifth anniversary, let’s work together to make this the best cleanup yet and keep the effort going all year long.”

Mayor Nutter was joined today by Streets Department Commissioner Clarena I.W. Tolson, Deputy Mayor for Environmental and Community Resources Michael DiBerardinis, Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez, Deputy Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams, dozens of community groups, Kensington residents and Philly Spring Cleanup sponsors and partner organizations.

“The Philly Spring Cleanup is all about establishing civic pride, creating a better quality of life and taking ownership of our neighborhoods not just one day, but ever day,” said Commissioner Tolson. “We need to build off the momentum established during the cleanup and ‘Keep Up the Sweep Up’ year-round.”

City residents and organizations can become involved in the 5th Annual Philly Spring Cleanup by registering as project site or to volunteer. City residents and organizations who wish to participate should visit www.PhillySpringCleanup.com. The deadline for submitting a project is Friday, March 30, 2012. Residents may also call the Streets Department’s Customer Affairs Unit at 215-686-5560, or call 3-1-1.

The Countdown event this afternoon also highlighted the work happening to revitalize McPherson Square Park in Kensington. Over the years, McPherson has dealt with many issues including crime, drugs and blight, which have adversely affected the Park. Recently, local nonprofits and city agencies have banded together to make the park safer, cleaner and a better resource for local residents.

Major Philly Spring Cleanup sponsors include Waste Management, the Carton Council, DOW, Covanta Energy, Republic Services, BigBelly Solar Compactor and ReCommunity Building.

Among the partners who are working on the Philly Spring Cleanup and/or the revitalization of McPherson Square Park are the following: Philadelphia Streets Department, UnLitter Us, Keep Philadelphia Beautiful, Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee, Community Action Center of the United Way Southeastern Pennsylvania, City Year, Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, Mayor’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteer Services, Philadelphia Recycling Rewards, Recyclebank, HACE, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, The PhillyRising Collaborative, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Friends of the Free Library of Philadelphia in McPherson Square Park, Impact Services, Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez, Aspira, Epic, New Kensington CDC and PHS (The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society).

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