Eaters get 'A Taste of the West Side'

The culture of West Philadelphia is as diverse and as rich as the University itself, many students said after participating in Saturday's "A Taste of the West Side," an event designed to showcase the lesser-known culinary sides of the area. "Many students and faculty do not give themselves the opportunity to experience all that the city has to offer," College freshman Kate Goldstein said. The celebration at the University Museum gave the community and many area residents the opportunity to sample a smorgasbord of ethnic foods and performances. Highlights of the festivities included Ethiopian, Mexican and French delectables, as well as several art exhibits, musical performances and wandering minstrels. "It was just a great experience as well as a perfect way to delve into all that Philadelphia has to offer," College freshman Jodi Buckler said. More than 10 organizations and restaurants participated in the event, including Arts West, West Philadelphian Cultural Alliance and the Institute of Contemporary Art. Edwina Noble, a Philadelphia resident and a volunteer with the West Philadelphian Culture Alliance, said the night was especially significant for her because several of the Alliance's artists displayed works such as wood sculptures and photographs. A pamphlet for the event stated the goal of such organizations was to "promote and market the area as a viable destination for residents and visitors in order to enhance business revenues and increase cultural audiences." Coordinators began planning the event months ago. As Mike Hardy of University City Community Council noted, "We started the collaboration because there is so much going on that people just don't know about." Hardy, event coordinator Barry Grosbach and a committee dedicated to making the night a success began ironing out details in March. And various restaurants and artists donated their time and services to reduce the overall cost. While those attending the event were pleased with what they found, the event's planners were even more encouraged by what they saw -- hordes of interested people. Hardy, for example, said that the planning committee did not know how many people to expect. "By last week, only 15 tickets were sold," he said. "But suddenly all of the 800 advanced tickets sold out. Then at the doors, 200 or 300 people were turned away." Hardy added that people heard about the event through hearsay, e-mail messages, and various University City newsletters -- which created "a really nice feel -- a mix across the lines: racially, town and gown, between residents of Philadelphia, and even people coming down from New York."