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What were they thinking? It seems over the last couple of weeks, I have been spending way too much time analyzing the thought process of random happenings.
Last week, for instance, I found myself in utter shock when word broke that LeSean McCoy would be heading to Buffalo in exchange for linebacker Kiko Alonso. I am talking about the All-Pro performer and Philadelphia Eagles all-time leading rusher with 6,792 yards. This is the same McCoy who led the NFL in rushing just two seasons ago. The move addresses two major concerns: The salary cap and a defense that was a major area of concern heading to the offseason.
McCoy is the type of player the Eagles should be building this franchise around, as he still likely has a few good years of league-leading running left in those legs. I am sure this is going to be the first of several head-scratching moves in the NFL free-agent market. The Philadelphia 76ers pulled off a similar move last month when they traded Michael Carter-Williams, the 2014 NBA Rookie of the Year, to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a multi-team deal. Good for him, as I don’t see this franchise making the postseason cut for another year or two, at the earliest. The Sixers may have some young talent, but that seat at the NBA lottery seems to be turning into a permanent one. How about thinking about winning now (next season would be a good start)?
My dear Mother Nature, thank you, thank you for sending the bulk of this winter’s snow to the Boston area (now if the Phillies can sweep the Red Sox in the regular season’s opening series, life would be grand). I am not complaining, but why did it take so long for the Philadelphia region to get significant snowfall? Luckily, with spring right around the corner, it’s the fast-melting variety.
Then there’s Sylvester Stallone, who has been seen around the neighborhood shooting scenes for the latest chapter of the overdone “Rocky” franchise that dates back to 1976. Yes, Rocky Balboa continues to maintain his iconic status around the City of Brotherly Love and continues to earn Readers’ Choice votes, but the story should’ve ended after “Rocky IV.” Fast forward to 2015, in which “The Italian Stallion” steps into his new role as the trainer and mentor of Apollo Creed’s grandson, Adonis. Sounds to me as if the story is far from finished.
Fittingly, this week’s issue is all about choices. The great thing about the Readers’ Choice Awards is there are no right or wrong answers. South Philadelphia is no longer just considered the cheesesteak capital of the world, as the restaurant scene is booming. The bakeries South of South Street have a storied tradition that dates back more than 100 years. Each of the winners has earned a moment in the South Philly Review spotlight, but take a stroll down East Passyunk Avenue, South Street, South Broad Street or another avenue of choice, and one will quickly realize the food and entertainment options are endless.
Like previous years, this issue is a massive undertaking, from the expanded What’s Happening section (starts on page 28) to the large expanded news section of Readers’ Choice profiles (flip to page 7). Call it a light-and-refreshing preview to spring. Feel free to venture out into the neighborhood and try some of the profiled subjects for the first time. After all, spring is almost here, so the it’s-too-cold-out excuse no longer applies.
Don’t be afraid to tell us what you think.
2015 Readers’ Choice Awards
Cuisine
Geno’s Steaks Cheesesteak
Mr. Wings Wings
PrimoHoagies Hoagie
Cantina Los Caballitas Mexican Restaurant
SliCE Gourmet Pizza
Penrose Diner Diner
Ristorante Pesto BYOB/romantic diner
Scannicchio’s/Christian Varalli Italian restaurant/chef
Izumi Sushi
Palladino’s on Passyunk Best New Restaurant
Taproom on 19th Beer Selection
Anthony’s Italian Coffee House Coffee
Sweet Tooth
Potito’s Bakery Cannoli/Bakery
Pop’s Water Ice Water Ice
Lerro Candy Co. Chocolate
Places
Pastificio Homemade Pasta Co. Italian specialty store
Galdo’s Catering Hall
Olivieri Jewelers Jeweler
Murphy Ruffenach and Brian Donnelly Funeral homes Funeral home
Marconi Plaza Park
St. Monica Church
Lombardi’s Prime Meats Butcher shop
Italian Market South Philly Landmark
People
Jason Douglas DJ
Hairs to You Barber
The Business Local band/singer
Christine Fisler South Philly performer
Vikings Mummers Brigade
Patricia Cody Principal
Carl Arrigale High school coach/youth coach
Ed Mooney High school/college athlete
Chase Utley Philly pro athlete
On the Move
Planet Fitness Gym/health club
DanceAdelphia Extracurricular Destination for Youth
FDR Park Stroll or Bike Ride
PHL Crossfit Crossfit
And Let’s Not Forget
Cold Cuts Category not on this list
Contact Editor Bill Gelman at bgelman@southphillyreview.com or ext. 121.
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