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(10/26/00 9:00am)
When Gregory Djanikian majored in English at Penn about 30 years ago, he complained that there was no place to share his passion with other writers.
Sure, there was Bennett Hall just as there is today. But classrooms, after all, are confining. He needed a place for listening to his peers, for throwing around ideas -- for inspiration.
So, for the literary minded, it's a good thing that Penn has changed in the last three decades. Because now, Djanikian has himself a thriving, poetry-loving community.
This year, the head of the University's creative writing program -- about 75 English majors concentrate in creative writing -- even found a space of national prestige to share with other published writers, including English Professor Susan Stewart, in The Best American Poetry 2000.
The annual anthology's latest edition features pieces from the two Penn English professors, honoring their poems as being among the country's 75 best. English Professor Bob Perelman's work has also graced the book's pages in previous years.
"I didn't know that the poem was going to be selected or that it was even read," said Djanikian, whose uncollected work "Immigrant Picnic" first appeared in a 1999 Poetry magazine issue.
Djanikian, 51, returned to Penn in 1983 after teaching in New York public schools and lecturing in the halls of Syracuse University and the University of Michigan. Now part of the Penn creative writing team, he plays ping-pong with a colleague on the same day that he schedules world-famous authors at the Kelly Writers House.
In his first-floor Bennett office that offers a view of the congested 34th and Walnut intersection, Djanikian is the first to admit that poetry is, for him, an indispensable part of his being.
"It seems to me I can only make sense of my feelings toward the world when I sit down and try to articulate through language, how I confront the world, how it confronts me, how I move through it," he says.
A native of Alexandria, Egypt, who eventually settled in Williamsport, Pa., Djanikian tried to capture the oddities of spoken language in "Immigrant Picnic," the poem that Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and guest editor Rita Dove chose as one of America's "Best."
Djanikian, who says his life revolves around his two teenage children, mowing the lawn and writing, recently completed his fourth poetry collection, Years Later, and is toiling away on a fifth.
Much of Djanikian's prior work has dealt with personal experiences in his homeland and in acclimating himself to American culture.
His newest collection, however, represents an entirely different theme.
Years Later, released in 2000, focuses on the idea that love -- "that power which sometimes crosses boundaries between self and other" -- would not be so cherished if we did not feel it could fail at any moment, sending us back to ourselves. Relationships possess an amount of aloneness even when lovers are together.
Why the disconnect from a writer who admits to connecting with humanity?
"I wanted to give voice to the experience of being separate even as one is together with someone else. It was just the time in my life that was right," Djanikian says, behind a graying goatee and mustache. "What you are writing about seeks you out."
This is a message he relates to his students.
This semester, Djanikian is teaching an introductory poetry workshop for undergraduates from all four schools, while advising about 30 creative writing English majors.
Students look up to the man who once stood in their shoes.
"He knows his stuff," College senior Tim Noble said.
Djanikian started advising Noble, who concentrates in creative writing, when he transferred from the Engineering School at the end of his freshman year. He took one of Djanikian's workshops last spring, where he received further inspiration by watching his mentor rattle off the last few lines of a poem that he had been working on for more than a year -- right in front of the class.
Djanikian credits the Writers House with helping him find a niche to pursue his passion. There, he belongs to a community of wordsmiths, speakers and musicians that, collectively, has put Penn on the map.
Indeed, Djanikian can take comfort in knowing that he's not the only one transforming thoughts into poems.
For instance, the well-respected Perelman appeared in The Best American Poetry in 1988, 1989 and 1991 before making The Best of the Best American Poetry in 1998. Perelman praised Penn's burgeoning creative writing program, citing the Best American kudos and Writers House activities.
"[Creative writing here] is in very lively shape," Perelman said.
Research universities, like Penn, pride themselves on creating new knowledge. Writers House Faculty Director Al Filreis commended his English Department colleagues for creating new "expression."
He pointed to the distinction that Stewart and Perelman hold as both poetry critics and writers.
"Most creative writing programs are involved in a schizophrenic relationship with the English Department," Filreis said. "We've overcome the creative-critical divide."
(06/01/00 9:00am)
Wootton High School '98
(06/01/00 9:00am)
Wootton High School '98
(05/03/00 9:00am)
In exchange for a later opening date, the long-awaited $20 million overhaul of Gimbel Gymnasium -- which will create the Pottruck Health and Fitness Center -- will not close down the existing gym during the academic school year, officials announced last week. Construction will start this summer on the four-story addition that will add over 65,000 square feet to the current Gimbel space, according to the Division of Recreation and Intercollegiate Athletics. Officials announced the finalized construction date last week and expect the renovated facility to open in 2003. In October, plans called for a more accelerated construction schedule -- beginning this summer -- that would have closed down the entire site, including Gimbel, the Katz Fitness Center and the Sheerr Pool during the next academic year. According to a DRIA statement, Provost Robert Barchi discussed options with the Undergraduate Assembly and the Committee on Recreation and Intercollegiate Athletics, who were in favor of keeping Gimbel open. "We felt that depriving students, faculty and staff of the use of these facilities for an entire year was not worth the benefit of an earlier opening," Penn Athletic Director Steve Bilsky said. Vice President of Facilities Omar Blaik said that some utility relocation may start this summer. And the vendors that occupy the fresh air food plaza next to Gimbel will be relocated during construction. "During construction, [the vendors] cannot be where they are," Blaik said. "The question is what happens after construction." Blaik added that the University is currently in talks with vendors about the impact of Gimbel construction, but said it is too early for serious discussions. The University has not settled on a location for the food trucks, according to the University's top economic development official, Jack Shannon, who added that they are looking at areas along the 3700 block of Sansom Street. "We would definitely not move them across campus," Shannon said. Some food truck owners are worried about the move. Mike Lynch, owner of the Quaker Shaker truck next to Gimbel, said that he hopes the new site does not deter foot traffic. The current plaza is accessible from Walnut Street. "[The move] will have a negative effect on all of us -- some more than others -- unless they make it aesthetically pleasing," Lynch said yesterday, adding that the University talked last month about adorning the new plaza with tables and chairs. Although the completed facility will bear Pottruck's name, the Katz Fitness Center, Gimbel and the Sheerr Pool will remain within the larger structure and retain their names. The overhaul is funded primarily by a $10 million donation from 1970 College graduate David Pottruck, a University Trustee and co-chief executive officer of The Charles Schwab Corporation. Featuring over 18,000 square feet of dedicated fitness space, the Pottruck Center plans include aerobic, dance and martial arts instruction areas. The new facility will also offer a juice bar, pro shop and climbing wall -- along with classroom and administrative areas. University officials first addressed the need for better exercise facilities in 1996 when they hired a consulting firm to create a list of recommendations for the future development of athletic and recreational facilities on campus. As a result, Gimbel underwent $1.2 million renovations in 1998 for the construction of the ground-floor Katz Fitness Center.
(04/24/00 9:00am)
Penn is currently in discussions with Blackbuster and Hollywood Video to bring a new bideo store to campus. With initial talks underway, students may soon have a place besides ResNet and Cinemagic to turn to for movie entertainment. University officials are in "preliminary discussions" with Blockbuster and Hollywood Video, according to John Greenwood -- a top official for the University's real estate company -- who explained that the University held introductory meetings with both companies over the past two months. "We would like to have a new store here this year," Greenwood said. University officials said they have had only "some interest" from Blockbuster and Hollywood Video at this early stage. "They are not beating down our door," said Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official. He added that large corporations tend to be more methodical in their dealings, saying the University will learn their intentions in the coming weeks. "[The process is] moving along at a natural course," Greenwood said of the discussions with video retailers. The only video store currently on campus, the Video Library on the 4000 block of Locust Street, closes at 10 p.m. on weeknights and Saturdays. Philadelphia-based TLA Video had been in talks with the University since September about filling the vacant space adjacent to the Eat at Joe's diner on the 3900 block of Walnut Street. But following a boom in the eclectic distributor's online sales and speculation of old-fashioned video rental becoming obsolete, TLA opted not to open at Penn. Students have continuously asked for more video options on campus. A 1998 Undergraduate Assembly 40th Street Development Survey showed that 53 percent of the 470 students polled expressed a desire for a late-night video store. Outgoing UA Chairman Michael Silver, who met with the University to present the UA's recommendations for a video store in late February, called the survey results "eye-opening." "It's quantitative data that the University doesn't have," Silver said, adding that the survey should serve as incentive for video chains. The College senior gave Greenwood a hard copy of the results earlier this month. While UA members did not attend the introductory video store meetings with the two chains, both the University and Silver said students will be involved in future talks. "[The University has] said all along that they want us on board," Silver said yesterday. "It's been a very good partnership." Greenwood said he appreciates the student group's eagerness to participate. UA member Molly Siems, a College freshman, said several UA members have been discussing video store plans within the UA since the initial February meeting with the University, at which Siems was present. "I would really like to get together again to make sure everything is still moving forward," Siems said. The recommendation to bring a late-night video store to campus was also made last spring by Provost Robert Barchi's Working Group on Alcohol Abuse as a way to provide more non-alcoholic activities on campus. The University is primarily looking to fill the space next to Eat at Joe's, according to Lussenhop. Incoming UA Chairman Michael Bassik said he intends to work with the University until administrators secure a video chain. "We intend to meet with Executive Vice President John Fry within the next two weeks to let the University know that bringing a video store to campus is still a top priority for the UA," the College junior said.
(04/24/00 9:00am)
Penn is currently in discussions with Blockbuster and Hollywood Video to bring a new bideo store to campus. With initial talks underway, students may soon have a place besides ResNet and Cinemagic to turn to for movie entertainment. University officials are in "preliminary discussions" with Blockbuster and Hollywood Video, according to John Greenwood -- a top official for the University's real estate company -- who explained that the University held introductory meetings with both companies over the past two months. "We would like to have a new store here this year," Greenwood said. University officials said they have had only "some interest" from Blockbuster and Hollywood Video at this early stage. "They are not beating down our door," said Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official. He added that large corporations tend to be more methodical in their dealings, saying the University will learn their intentions in the coming weeks. "[The process is] moving along at a natural course," Greenwood said of the discussions with video retailers. The only video store currently on campus, the Video Library on the 4000 block of Locust Street, closes at 10 p.m. on weeknights and Saturdays. Philadelphia-based TLA Video had been in talks with the University since September about filling the vacant space adjacent to the Eat at Joe's diner on the 3900 block of Walnut Street. But following a boom in the eclectic distributor's online sales and speculation of old-fashioned video rental becoming obsolete, TLA opted not to open at Penn. Students have continuously asked for more video options on campus. A 1998 Undergraduate Assembly 40th Street Development Survey showed that 53 percent of the 470 students polled expressed a desire for a late-night video store. Outgoing UA Chairman Michael Silver, who met with the University to present the UA's recommendations for a video store in late February, called the survey results "eye-opening." "It's quantitative data that the University doesn't have," Silver said, adding that the survey should serve as incentive for video chains. The College senior gave Greenwood a hard copy of the results earlier this month. While UA members did not attend the introductory video store meetings with the two chains, both the University and Silver said students will be involved in future talks. "[The University has] said all along that they want us on board," Silver said yesterday. "It's been a very good partnership." Greenwood said he appreciates the student group's eagerness to participate. UA member Molly Siems, a College freshman, said several UA members have been discussing video store plans within the UA since the initial February meeting with the University, at which Siems was present. "I would really like to get together again to make sure everything is still moving forward," Siems said. The recommendation to bring a late-night video store to campus was also made last spring by Provost Robert Barchi's Working Group on Alcohol Abuse as a way to provide more non-alcoholic activities on campus. The University is primarily looking to fill the space next to Eat at Joe's, according to Lussenhop. Incoming UA Chairman Michael Bassik said he intends to work with the University until administrators secure a video chain. "We intend to meet with Executive Vice President John Fry within the next two weeks to let the University know that bringing a video store to campus is still a top priority for the UA," the College junior said.
(04/12/00 9:00am)
The leases of the Gold Standard and Palladium expire at the end of 2002. Penn's announcement last week of plans to reinvigorate Locust Walk leaves an unclear future for the Palladium Restaurant and the Gold Standard, both of which have been central fixtures on the Walk since 1983. Both restaurants reside in the Christian Association building -- located on the corner of 36th Street and Locust Walk-- which is one of four buildings that will soon hold several student groups. This past fall, the University purchased the CA building, taking control of the 27,000-square foot property in the heart of campus and ending 20 years of on- and off-negotiations. The dining establishments' lease expires December 31, 2002, according to Roger Harman, who owns both establishments. "We're not sure if the University wants us to stay here in a reduced capacity," Harman said yesterday. He added that he had been aware that his restaurants would be affected by the University's acquisition of the CA building. "There's no big secret here," Harman said. "We knew our lease was up." Harman said he has his eye on several other properties in the neighborhood to possibly relocate one or both restaurants, anticipating the committee's report. He added that he will discuss plans over the next few weeks with the Locust Walk Advisory Committee -- a 12-person task force of students, faculty and staff that University President Judith Rodin charged in February with determining how best to fill a number of recently vacated properties along the Walk. The CA building's ground floor, currently occupied by the Gold Standard, will eventually house a performing arts hub. Plans call for about a dozen campus organizations to get new homes and will spawn the creation of a cultural and performing arts center, a research hub for undergraduates, a graduate student center and common space for student religious groups. According to Provost Robert Barchi, who chaired the committee, Penn would reclaim much of the space the two restaurants now use, though he said the committee wanted to keep some type of food operation in the building. "It will be up to the University and specifically, Business Services, to work out whether or not it makes sense to continue with the current restaurant owners or to explore other alternatives," Barchi wrote in an e-mail yesterday. Students on the committee said that keeping the Palladium is a possibility. "There is the thought that there should be some outside dining," said Undergraduate Assembly Chairman Michael Silver, a College senior who sat on the committee, adding that a food venue adds character to the corner. Harman noted that renovations to the building may impact the restaurants' plans, as well. Starting this summer, the University's renovations will address safety issues stemming from structural inefficiencies and will tailor the CA building to the needs of its future occupants.
(04/03/00 9:00am)
Students are advocating for a campus diner with a more 'authentic' feel. In 1996, the Undergraduate Assembly presented the Penn community with a survey showing that 97 percent of students surveyed wanted a 24-hour diner close to campus. University administrators greeted the results enthusiastically, saying they would work the request into their master plan for retail development. But four years after that survey was conducted and nearly two years after Penn lured Eat at Joe's to a spot near 40th and Walnut streets, students say their wish for a greasy, 24-hour-a-day diner is still unfulfilled. Students have long derided Eat at Joe's as too expensive and too slow. And the 1950s theme diner has never been open for 24 hours -- it originally closed at 11 p.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends. Now, the diner stays open on weekdays until 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. on weekends. Since the fall, the restaurant has been under new management, which has tried to reinvigorate the franchise by changing the menu, hiring a better-trained staff and decreasing the wait time. But for most students, it's too little, too late, and perceptions of Eat at Joe's are hard to change. "[The University] gave us a lousy, retro-theme restaurant," UA Chairman Michael Silver said, adding that the atmosphere, operating hours and menu selection have not lived up to student expectations. Silver, a College senior, said the UA "constantly" urges Executive Vice President John Fry to bring a "real, authentic" diner to campus. UA member and College senior Jeremy Fingerman said the student group most recently advocated a greasy spoon diner at its February 3 meeting with the University. "The survey results don't change," Silver said. According to Fred Gershman, the general manager who opened Penn's diner, Eat at Joe's was intended to be a 24-hour, alcohol-serving diner. He said, however, that the University said it did not want any establishment open past 3 a.m. in order to prevent students from staying out too late. Though Penn officials could not be reached last night for comment on Gershman's statements, John Greenwood, a top official at the University's real estate company, said Penn will continue to strive to fulfill students' visions. "The University is very aware of student interest in a more authentic diner experience and is working on trying to improve the situation with Eat at Joe's and outside of Eat at Joe's," Greenwood said. Eat at Joe's officials said they have recently made changes in an effort to better meet customer needs. General Manager Lydia Holtzinger, who took charge of the Penn branch of the restaurant in September, said she changed the server and kitchen staff, added vegetarian items and decreased the wait time. "We get a lot of compliments now," she said. Joe Fiore, the company's chairman and chief executive officer, said the local restaurant is under ongoing evaluation. "Any business that stops making changes and stops implementing things ultimately dies," Fiore said. Eat at Joe's Director of Operations Glenn Gross, a 35-year veteran of the restaurant business, said the restaurant is now immaculate. He added that their 1950s diner cannot please everybody -- although they do try. "If [the students] wanted greasy spoon, let them go eat at the trucks down the street," Gross said yesterday. "I can't control how Eat at Joe's came about." Despite the changes, some students said they would rather patronize a restaurant run like a central New Jersey diner. "I want a greasy pit where it smells like cigarette smoke," UA member and Wharton junior Jonathan Glick said, adding that he has not eaten at Eat at Joe's in over a year. Still, other students found satisfying items on Eat at Joe's menu. College and Wharton senior Nili Doft -- who said she was disappointed by the diner's hours and decor -- noted that the milkshakes are "really good."
(03/31/00 10:00am)
University and community parents will have a newly designed, increased-capacity day-care facility within blocks of campus for their children starting next year. In January 2001, the Penn Children's Center -- a more than decade-old Penn-owned child-care center for children aged 12 weeks to five years -- will move into the former General Electric building at 31st and Chestnut streets. The University is converting the building into a luxury apartment building. PCC will occupy 10,000 square feet on the first floor of the new Westside Commons complex, along with Penn office space. The facility is also expected to feature 285 apartment units, a fitness center and 17,000 square feet of retail space. The center's current location -- which has a capacity of 76 children -- is partially housed at 43rd and Spruce streets while the site at 42nd and Locust streets is prepared for the construction of the new University-assisted public school. With a parking lot and exterior playground close by, the new 106-child capacity site will be more efficient than the old location, according to University Associate Vice President for Business Services Marie Witt. She said, however, that "the program is going to be very similar," adding that she is happy with the decision on a final location. The search for the center's new site lasted over a year, with one possible option -- constructing a new facility on the site of a burned-down church near 33rd and Chestnut streets -- proving too costly with a more than $6 million pricetag. Previous plans to lease space in the Newman Center at 37th and Chestnut streets also fell through. Yesterday, PCC Director Anjali Chawla said she was pleased that the University, along with outside childcare experts, can now design a space specifically with the center in mind. "The staff and I are really excited about this new location and looking forward to our move," Chawla added. She said the expanded program will require five new full-time staff members and a few more part-time workers, in addition to its current 37-person staff. President of the PCC Parent's Advisory Board Donna Petrelli said that while she has not yet received much feedback on the move, those parents who have spoken say they are glad to see a "win-win" result after the long search. "It's in walking distance for a lot of people who work on campus," added Petrelli, who works for Business Services. Petrelli, whose daughter currently attends PCC and will return there next year, said parents had wanted the new location to offer drop-off space, a playground and convenience. "I think that all those needs have been met," she noted. Eighty percent of the PCC's enrollment will be reserved for children of University employees.
(03/31/00 10:00am)
Neighbors of the new alcohol-free indie rock club at 4040 Locust Street don't want the performers to pump up the volume. Students living near the new 4040 club said they called the police and the Department of Licenses and Inspections Wednesday night to complain about the excessive noise. "The music level is absolutely insane," said College junior Paula Miller, who lives at 4051 Locust Street. "I might as well be in the club." Some students, including Miller, said they want the club -- which has been holding concerts since spring break -- to shut down. In February, city officials and community residents approved zoning changes to permit a music club in the former Urban Outfitters site, next to the Video Library. Miller added that the reason behind 4040's zoning remains a "mystery" to her. College junior Alyson Fien, who also lives at 4051 Locust, said she had called the police twice about the noise. Penn police were unavailable for comment last night. Yesterday, club co-owner Sean Agnew said he was aware of the residents' concerns regarding music levels, adding that he has printed letters for the 4000 block that say 4040 wants to be a "good neighbor." The club will install a theater curtain -- costing several thousand dollars -- to help lessen the noise level, according to Agnew, who said he does not have an exact date for its arrival. Agnew said the venue's "awkward" architecture, specifically its high ceiling, contributes to the sound amplification outside. "We are currently looking into ways to sound-proof the room completely to prevent sound from escaping the building as well as managing the calendar so that shows best fit into everyone's schedule," Agnew wrote in the letter. The letter also includes assurances that the club will end shows by 11 p.m. during the week and prevent concert-goers from loitering around houses. Still, music from 4040 interrupted Nicole Matusow's reading at 9:00 p.m. Wednesday night, according to the College junior who lives on nearby Beige Block. "It's the loudest thing ever," she added. However, some students living nearby said they couldn't hear anything. Wharton sophomore Jeff Braverman -- who lives on the side of 4031 Locust Street that does not face the club -- said the sound did not disturb him Wednesday night. 4040 Locust Street will serve as a temporary location until the University finds a permanent venue more suitable for a music club. Penn, which leases the building to the club, granted a license to 4040's operators barring the sale of alcohol, food or beverages. Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official, said in an e-mail yesterday that Penn "would be more than open to dealing with the noise issue during this busy time of study in any other creative ways that people suggest." Yesterday, Spruce Hill Community Association President Barry Grossbach, who signed an agreement with the University in January detailing the frequency and hours of shows, said the club is "a work in progress." Tommorrow, the music club will hold its grand opening show, featuring Atom and his Package. The event marks 4040's arrival as a consistent venue on the Philadelphia indie and punk scene. Agnew had been in talks with the University about opening a club in the area since last summer. In the fall, plans to build the venue at 40th and Market streets fell through because, Agnew said, at the time, Penn officials were afraid the club would increase area crime. Students reacted with petitions, signs and letters, and Penn officials resumed their discussions with Agnew shortly afterward. The club's opening fulfills the Working Group on Alcohol Abuse's recommendation that open a late-night, alcohol-free music club open on or near campus.
(03/29/00 10:00am)
Freshman Aaron Short is running for the UA despite a recent appendectomy. Most of the over 60 students running for the Undergraduate Assembly have been frantically campaigning for days, hanging posters across campus and handing out fliers on Locust Walk. But while other students have been preparing for the election which begins today, one candidate has been asking his friends to distribute his posters and get his name out. College freshman Aaron Short, who is running for College representative to the UA, had his appendix removed on Monday morning and has been trying to organize his UA campaign from the confines of a hospital bed. Yesterday evening, Short's faculty advisor dropped by HUP, delivering a directory that Short said he will use to contact helpers -- hallmates and candidates running unopposed. "It's a bad situation," said UA member Dave Burd, a College and Wharton sophomore. "It's important for us without appendicitis to do what we can." One hundred posters remain piled in Short's Goldberg College House dorm room, while campaign leaflets lie unclaimed at Campus Copy Center. Short said he postered the Quad before falling ill but will need assistance covering other areas on campus. "I certainly won't be going around knocking on people's doors," said Short, who was still hooked up to an intravenous unit last night. Nominations and Elections Committee Vice Chair of Elections Teresa Lee said that any candidate is allowed to ask friends to serve as surrogates and hang posters on their behalf. "It's pretty natural to have friends help you on your campaign," the Engineering and Wharton junior said, adding that the process takes up more time than candidates alone are able to give. Lee explained that even though Short will miss today's "Get Out the Vote!," he can still garner support just like any other candidate. "He's on the ballot," she said. "It's really all about the campaign." There are 36 students running for 16 open seats in the College representative race, according to Lee. Burd said he will hang about 25 posters for Short today. Short, who ran unsuccessfully for freshman class president this year, has attended UA meetings as a non-member since the fall. UA Chairman Michael Silver said Short has been a vocal presence at meetings and now possesses a "fair amount of name recognition." "I don't really see why this would deal a big blow to him," the College senior said yesterday.
(03/08/00 10:00am)
The popular duo will share the stage at April's annual Penn Relays concert, which will be held at the Class of 1923 ice Rink this year. The Class of 1923 Ice Rink will be pounding when twosome Method Man and Redman join opening acts The Outsidaz and Ram Squad for the annual Penn Relays concert this April, in what organizers are billing as one of the year's most dynamic hip hop events. "The duo was our first choice," said Shamika Lee, the co-director of the Social Planning and Events Committee To Represent Undergraduate Minorities, after receiving signed contracts from the performers. The College sophomore added that SPEC-TRUM selected performers that were popular in both Philadelphia and the hip hop industry. Last spring, SPEC-TRUM brought groups 112 and Mobb Deep to the concert for Penn Relays, an international track and field tournament that attracts tens of thousands of people to the University each year. Past years have seen heavyweights Busta Rhymes and the Fugees. Capping the University's second annual hip hop week and opening the Penn Relays weekend, the concert will for the first time take place in the ice rink, a venue larger than last year's The Armory, which Lee said no longer holds concerts. Lee said SPEC-TRUM tried for a "different flavor" and a "different feel" with this year's acts, hoping to appeal to more than just the hip hop fans in Penn's student body and attract greater diversity. Method Man started out as a member of the world renowned Wu-Tang Clan in 1993. After attaining stardom with the group, he released two solo albums --ETical in 1994 and Tical 200: Judgement Day in 1998 -- both of which went platinum. New Jersey native Redman gained popularity with the release of his 1992 album, Whut -- The Album, and has released several albums since. Method Man and Redman, with Def Jam Records, released their platinum album BlackOut in late September. And the pair -- who first collaborated on their 1996 single "How High" -- solidified after appearing on the highly publicized Hard Knock Life Tour with fellow Def Jam artists DMX and Jay-Z. Also from New Jersey, The Outsidaz have been working the rap scene since 1990. Their current album Night Life features artists such as Eminem and Rah Digga. And Philadelphia native rap trio Ram Squad has two popular singles out right now -- "How We Do" and "I See Nothing." Yesterday, organizers said they hope the lineup's MTV exposure will draw in a larger student crowd. "It will be accessible to more students," said SPEC Chairman Jon Herrmann, a Wharton senior. And Lee said SPEC-TRUM will focus marketing on campus more this year by selling tickets on Locust Walk for a month. Tickets for the concert go on sale starting March 20, the first day of classes following Spring Break.
(03/06/00 10:00am)
In wake of TLA Video's decision not to open a branch at Penn, University officials and student leaders have already started the search for another video retailer. Members of the Undergraduate Assembly and Penn officials agreed last week they would try to lure a chain video rental store to campus after having difficulty locating another independent store. Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official, said he has begun negotiating with several large national chains, including Blockbuster and Hollywood Video. He added that the University will hopefully have a new video store by the fall, calling that target "optimistic." "Right now, students still crave movies," said UA Chairman Michael Silver, who met with the University to present the group's recommendations for a new campus video operation. "TLA would have been awesome, but it's not happening," Silver said last week. "The only choice we have is a chain." The Philadelphia-based TLA had been in talks with the University since September, when both parties showed an interest in filling the vacant store adjacent to the Eat at Joe's diner on the 3900 block of Walnut Street. But following a boom in the eclectic distributor's online sales and speculation of old-fashioned video rental becoming obsolete, they opted not to come to Penn. Students have repeatedly asked for more video options on campus -- a request the UA hopes to fulfill through its work with the University. "In the area of campus retail and social options, this is the priority for the UA," said Silver, a College senior. Lussenhop, who solicited the UA's input, said "this will be a good opportunity for the UA leadership to get more involved. They're part of the process." He added that UA members will meet with representatives from each of the chains during negotiations. UA video store recommendations include support from a 1998 student survey and criticism of the current video rental option -- Video Library on the 40th block of Locust Street. According to a UA statement, the 1998 UA 40th Street Developmental Survey showed that 53 percent of 470 students polled expressed interest in a late-night video store, while anecdotal evidence -- especially freshmen input -- also supports another store. In its recommendations, the UA complained that the Video Library -- which closes at 10 p.m. on weeknights and Saturdays -- lacks accessibility and selection. "Video Library doesn't cut it," said Silver. Bringing a late-night video store to campus was a recommendation made last spring by Provost Robert Barchi's Working Group on Alcohol Abuse as a way to provide more non-alcoholic activities on campus. Silver said he told Lussenhop that students would welcome a national video chain to campus, despite student complaints that the campus is starting to resemble a mall. UA member Molly Siems, a College freshman, participated in last week's meeting, as representative of the first-year perspective. "It'd be a good idea to have one of the bigger names in a more visible space [for freshmen]," Siems said. The University will first show retailers the empty space next to Eat at Joe's, followed by other locations along 40th and Walnut streets, according to Lussenhop.
(03/03/00 10:00am)
Construction has begun on a new Asian-style eatery, scheduled to open late this summer, which will be operated by popular Philadelphia restaurateur Stephen Starr. Pod, previously slated for a spring opening, will showcase a $2.5 million retro-futuristic decor -- intended to conjure up a 1960s Japanese vision of the 21st century, according to Starr. "The design is always evolving," said the proprietor of the trendy Continental and Buddakan restaurants in Center City. As of this week, workers had installed the preliminary air conditioning and plumbing units, Starr said. Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official, said the University is prepared for Pod's arrival. "We, the landlords, are ready to go," he said earlier this week, adding that Starr's "meticulous" attention to detail caused revisions to the construction schedule. Pod, to be located at 37th and Sansom streets next to the rear entrance of the Inn at Penn, will feature a conveyor-belt sushi bar -- one of only four in the country. The David Rockwell Design Group, the architectural firm which also designed the Nobu and Vong restaurants in Manhattan, will make its Philadelphia debut with the 7,500-square-foot restaurant. Designs include private seating areas, or "pods," where customers can alter their space's color with the press of a button. "This is a very complex [project]," Starr said, adding that a conveyor-belt sushi bar takes 14 weeks to build in Japan. According to Starr -- who recently opened the Moroccan-cuisine restaurant Tangerine at 232 Market Street and the French bistro Blue Angel at 706 Chestnut Street -- Pod's menu is not complete but will offer sushi and other Asian items. The 200-seat establishment, Sansom Common's second restaurant, will be less expensive than Starr's other creations. Meals and beverages will cost an average $35 per customer. Pod's lounge will provide continuous DJ entertainment. "We think it's going to be big," Starr said last month. The additions of Pod and a card and gift shop, slated for an opening later this spring, will mark the completion of Sansom Common's three years of construction, Lussenhop said. Philadelphia retailer Arnold Bank, who operates stores in the Gallery at Market East and the Shoppes at Liberty Place, will run the card shop. He will also operate a similar store in Houston Hall when it reopens later this year. Starr had also been asked to open a restaurant in Robert Redford's Sundance Cinemas complex, which is under construction at 40th and Walnut streets and scheduled to open this fall at the earliest. In recent months, Sundance ended the relationship after deciding to manage the restaurant itself, according to Senior Vice President of the Sundance Film Centers Scott Dickey. "We had some great conversations with Stephen," Dickey said yesterday. "If we need to, we will tap him."
(02/29/00 10:00am)
Negotiations are in the works for a new pizzeria and bar to be located at 36th and Chestnut streets. Students craving a new place to eat may soon have one more option on campus. Pizzarustica, a gourmet, wood-burning oven shop and bar, signed a letter of intent earlier this month to move into a recently-vacated lot at 36th and Chestnut streets, according to John Greenwood a top official at the University's real estate company. Pending finalization of the lease, Pizzarustica, a cafeteria-style pizzeria, would open within about 90 days of the lease's signing in the space formerly held by Ace-Z 4 Pizza, Greenwood said. "We're trying really hard to work through the lease negotiations," Greenwood said yesterday. He added that the restaurant's price range will be moderate and comparable in style to establishments like California Pizza Kitchen. The 8'' to 16'' pizzas will range between $10 and $16 per pizza, according to Pizzarustica's operator -- a member of the Philadelphia food and beverage industry for the past 16 years who previously owned a successful restaurant that is still in existence. "The beauty of a pizza is that it is a one dish meal," said the operator of the restaurant, who asked to remain anonymous until the lease is finalized. "I think pizza is probably the best meal in the world." Pointing to the scarcity of quality pizza restaurants in the University City area, the operator added that she hopes Pizzarustica will be open by the spring. Capturing a Mediterranean spirit, the 80-seat restaurant -- described as cosmopolitan, sophisticated and student-friendly by the operator -- will display paninis and salads in the front marketplace area while providing additional seating for leisurely dining or studying in the back. Greenwood said the University evicted Ace-Z 4 to "better position that corner with a stronger operator that could energize the terrific space," adding that the establishment will be completely remodeled, offer extended hours and provide outdoor seating. Along with Pizzarustica, several other dining options are coming to campus. Bitar's Restaurant, serving Middle Eastern cuisine, will fill the site of the former Cool Peppers Mexican Grill on 40th Street by the end of March. And Stephen Starr has said his new upscale, Asian-style eatery will open in Sansom Common later this year. And Izzy and Zoe's delicatessen, a fast-food establishment on 40th Street, opened last week to hordes of students who had long awaited a bagel shop on campus.
(02/25/00 10:00am)
Long lines graced the grand opening of the Izzy and Joe's delicatessen on 40th Street. Izzy and Zoe's delicatessen was as stuffed as its sandwiches at its opening yesterday. Students, University staff and community residents have yearned for another bagel shop since Penn's last bagel store, University Bagels, closed in 1998. Yesterday, they crowded the new 1,550-square-foot establishment for breakfast, lunch and dinner. "Since we opened the doors, there's been a line," said owner Elissa Rivkind's husband Jon, who started operations at 7 a.m. The new bagel shop occupies the space formerly held by My Favorite Muffin on 40th Street. Employees handed out free hats, shirts and mugs to customers. The store's opening was delayed several weeks because of construction. Izzy and Zoe's menu offers sandwiches, soups, salads and traditional Jewish specialties -- along with all-day breakfast -- from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. on weekdays and until 3 a.m. on the weekends. The bagel shop also delivers for a $10 minimum charge. While the restaurant anticipated crowds, it was not fully prepared for the influx, according to Rivkind, who owns the Fairmount Bagel Institute in Center City. "The phones rang all week, asking if we were open," he said. "We're just overwhelmed." Rivkind added that "first-day jitters" contributed to the wait, saying he is already planning to add a second register for faster line movement. At around 8 p.m. last night, the delicatessen was forced to shut its doors early when the bread supply dwindled, according to Rivkind. "Closing because we run out of food is a good thing," he said, adding that the bagel shop is already preparing for tomorrow. "It will be fixed." Those who stayed in line said the food, friendliness and atmosphere made up for the time inconvenience. "It stood up to my standards," said College senior Debbi Bauml, who worked in a New Jersey kosher delicatessen for 2 1/2 years and skipped class to taste this bagel store's selections. "It was great." During lunch, College junior Jaime Herman said her sesame bagel with cream cheese and tomato was worth the 40-minute wait. While Jackson 5 music played in the background, students praised the pickle-packed establishment's decor, with green vegetables both in barrels and on walls, which were adorned by phrases like, "One cannot live on coffee alone, have a bagel." First-year Law student Paul Kim said he liked the restaurant's set-up, complete with pickle-shaped tables, but felt the average specialty sandwich price of $6 or $7 was a bit pricey. "They are a little high," said Kwang Kim, also a first-year Law student. Some potential customers walked away without purchasing because of the line. "It was the first day," Marsha Allen said on her lunch break with a co-worker from the Dental School. "We'll come back again." Others were more frustrated. "We were in there for 15 minutes," College senior Kate Heuisler said after leaving the line. "We are going to the Mexicali truck." Izzy and Zoe's owners said they were tired, yet satisfied, after yesterday's rush. "As long as the food's good, we're happy," Rivkind said. In March, diners will be able to sit outside on 60 degree days -- like yesterday -- when Izzy and Zoe's installs tables for an outdoor cafZ, according to Rivkind, whose daughter and grandfather serve as the store's namesakes. Yesterday's opening marks the first of Hamilton Village's upcoming arrivals. Bitar's Restaurant, serving Middle Eastern cuisine, will fill the site next door -- formerly home to Cool Peppers Mexican Grill -- by the end of March. Penn officials have predicted that developments like the neighboring Sundance Cinemas complex and the Freshgrocer.com specialty food market will make the 40th Street corridor a lively commercial zone.
(02/22/00 10:00am)
TLA Video wants to focus on its online ventures, rather than video rental. With its online sales making old-fashioned retail video rental look obsolete, TLA Video has decided opening a store in a long-vacant space near 40th and Walnut streets as the University had previously hoped, according to Penn officials. The Philadelphia-based TLA had been in talks with the University since September, when both parties showed an interest in filling the area near 40th Street that will soon showcase Robert Redford's Sundance Cinemas complex and other new retail and entertainment options intended to make the location a destination spot for Philadelphians. "It does not look like the TLA deal will move forward," said John Greenwood, a top official at the University's real estate company. TLA would have operated out of the vacant store adjacent to the Eat at Joe's diner on the 3900 block of Walnut Street. Greenwood said TLA, which runs six retail stores and is now moving toward greater involvement with Internet sales, will not be creating new retail locations anywhere in the near future. "While we feel badly, we still think that the location is terrific," he said, adding that Penn is currently evaluating other music and video retail options for the site. Greenwood noted the difficulty of finding "terrific, eclectic" options like TLA, saying that the University had been contacting the larger Blockbuster video chain in recent years until negotiations began with TLA. Students have repeatedly expressed interest in having more video rental options available on campus. According to an Undergraduate Assembly-sponsored survey conducted in December 1998, 53 percent of 470 students polled expressed an interest in having a late-night video store. UA Chairman Michael Silver made bringing a late-night video store to campus a top UA priority last semester. "It's still, in my mind, a no-brainer that we need a viable video store on campus," the College senior said. TLA struggled with its decision not to open on campus, according to company officials. "We agonized about it," TLA co-owner Eric Moore said, noting that Penn had made a "sweet offer." "It was painful to turn down," he added. Considering time and money, the retail venture would not have made financial sense, according to Moore. TLA's online sales have more than quintupled since last year. This month, the company will likely bring in about $170,000 in gross Internet sales, compared to $30,000 last year. December holiday sales took in $230,000, according to Moore, who predicts that the online business will continue to grow quickly. TLA President Ray Murray said the future of home video is moving in a different direction from video rental. "I think video stores in 10 years won't exist," Murray said yesterday, adding that movie-watchers will eventually view films from the comfort of their home computers. Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official, said that TLA's online focus will shape the type of retail the University seeks in the future. "I sense a market opportunity? for an entrepreneur that takes advantage of the Web," he said. Lussenhop added that he wants a University-community dialogue on how to meet the demand for high-quality video rental, while at the same time staying consistent with technological change. Bringing a late-night video store to campus was a recommendation made last spring by Provost Robert Barchi's Working Group on Alcohol Abuse as a way to provide more non-alcoholic activity options on campus. The only video store currently on campus, the Video Library on the 4000 block of Locust Street, closes at 10 p.m. on weeknights and Saturdays.
(02/22/00 10:00am)
Penn eyes another round of expansion - towards the Schuylkill For the past 30 years, the University has slowly expanded its campus westward all the way to 40th Street. But now, Penn is running out of room. Officials have pledged to the community that the completion of Hamilton Village at 40th and Walnut streets will mark the end to their western ventures -- leaving an ever-expanding University in a very limited space. Bounded to the north by Drexel University, and to the south by biomedical and health care facilities, there is only one option left for administrators eager to fulfill what they see as Penn's manifest destiny: a campus extending from the Schuylkill River to 40th Street. And so the University has turned its focus in a different and less-familiar direction: east. "We're landlocked," Executive Vice President John Fry said. "This is the only place for the University to expand." Last year, Penn took its first steps eastward, with the announcement of projects at 34th and Chestnut streets and 31st and Walnut streets. But the key to major and prolonged eastward expansion lies less than a mile away from College Hall -- the 30th Street United States Postal Service property. For years, Penn has eyed the 30th Street location, which is scheduled to be put up for sale once the mail-processing facility at the current site relocates in three years. There likely won't be another opportunity for decades to make the same kind of impact to Penn. "This truly is one of the University's highest priorities," Fry said. For Penn, that land could mean a facility geared toward bioengineering -- rivaling the Research Triangle in Raleigh, N.C. -- another retail hub, more room for student and faculty housing and perhaps a place for a long-hoped-for recreation field house. But the University isn't alone in its desire for the land. According to Fry, who leads all non-academic aspects of the University, several institutions have redevelopment plans for the 23-acre property -- particularly for the 14-acre tract of land that lies to the south of Walnut Street. Fourteen-acre lots are hard to come by in West Philadelphia. And over the next 12 to 24 months, the Post Office will conduct a study -- with the help of Drexel, Amtrak and the city -- to determine the best future uses for the land and its neighbors. "This is not just another piece of property," Fry said. "This is the future envelope of our campus." The Postal Service uses the equivalent of four large city blocks for its post office, regional headquarters and parking, loading and vehicle servicing. Yet it's not just the size that makes the land attractive. Located next to 30th Street Station, neighboring the Schuylkill River and just over the bridge from Center City, the Postal Service lands give new meaning to the phrase "location, location, location." "Transportation-wise, it's just ideal," Postal Service spokesman Paul Smith said. Calling the post office the "cornerstone of Philadelphia," Smith added that the property -- convenient for commuters -- is valuable for its location and reputation. The cost to buy it would likely run in the tens of millions of dollars. "It's prime real estate," Smith said. Adding to its attraction, the state has labeled the land a Keystone Opportunities site, making any new or expanding businesses who move to the property eligible for tax incentives and benefits. City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who represents most of West Philadelphia, called the Postal property's location and land space "perfect," adding that it will be in great demand once it goes on the market. "It's really the gateway to Center City," Blackwell said. When the historic Main Post Office at 30th Street opened in 1935 at a cost of $4.5 million, The Philadelphia Record called it the "finest post office in the world," Smith explained, noting the site's proximity to cars, trains, boats and even helicopters. The 65-year-old building shuttles eight million pieces of mail daily -- making one of the busiest post offices in the nation. But the facility is no longer ideal for mail processing, and officials have long planned for a move. "We really outgrew the building," Smith said. After 10 years of looking, the expanding Postal Service has found a site suitable for their needs, off Island Avenue near the Hilton Hotel at 70th Street and Lindbergh Boulevard. The $125 million facility will open in June 2003. Though parts of the 30th Street facility will still be used as a regular post office, the rest of the building and the surrounding property will be made available for reuse. Postal Service Facilities personnel said last week that they have participated in a few preliminary talks -- "but nothing concrete"-- concerning the future of the property. Several institutions have a stake in the development, including Penn. Which is why University officials have been dealing directly with the Postal Service for the past five years. Penn administrators have developed four potential uses for the site. Fry said the area has the potential to attract startup biotechnology companies and Internet firms -- creating a zone similar to North Carolina's Research Triangle, which combines resources from Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. Such a move would pump millions into Philadelphia's economy and give area college graduates a reason to remain in a city they so often abandon. Penn also wants the area to house supportive retail, Fry said, like the establishments lining Walnut and 40th streets. And residential facilities, like the Westside Commons project at 31st and Walnut streets, are also a possibility. The purpose of that project was to give Penn a new gateway on the east and to provide faculty and graduate students -- who usually move into Center City -- with a place to live in West Philadelphia. The apartment complex will combine 285 luxury apartments with retail, office space and a rooftop-track in a former General Electric building that stood abandoned for several years prior. Mayoral spokeswoman Barbara Grant said that she has not been in contact with anyone about the postal land's use. She added however, that Mayor John Street supports enhancing the city's Internet and biotechnology industry -- whether it's done by Penn, hospitals or other institutions. Grant would not comment specifically on Penn's plans. In addition to attracting technology companies and retail, Fry said Penn might also preserve some of the open space for recreation. Even though the University is in the process of renovating Bower and Murphy fields and Gimbel Gymnasium, Penn's need for more recreational space will not be fulfilled by those renovations. The postal land's 14 acres of open space would make an ideal location for a much-needed recreational fieldhouse and indoor track. Both were the suggestions of a consulting firm hired in 1996 to create a list of recommendations for the future development of athletic and recreational facilities on campus. The firm's report called for 225,000 additional square feet of indoor recreational space. Director of Recreation Michael Diorka said that although brainstorming took place after the report's release, he has not been involved in any discussions about using the property for recreation since 1996. "We have focused our attention on the Pottruck Fitness Center," he said. According to Fry, the University has been speaking with the city and the business community about Penn's ideas for the location's development. Amtrak and Drexel University were named by a member of Fry's staff as institutions with similar interest in the land over the long-term horizon. Though Drexel officials declined to comment about their interest, Fry said "We believe we have a very good partnership with Drexel." Blackwell said she supports whatever retail and other uses the University wants to bring to the area. "We have a reciprocal relationship [with Penn]," she said, explaining that the school's plans would also benefit area residents. And 30th Street has long been one possibility for a new baseball stadium for the Philadelphia Phillies, replacing the aged Veterans Stadium in South Philadelphia. Penn's opposition to the project, though, has seemingly prevented it from becoming a serious possibility. University City District Executive Director Paul Steinke said the local community wants the site developed to its "highest and best use" -- contributing street life and activity that will positively impact the area's economy.
(02/15/00 10:00am)
4040 Locust will house the new club, which will open by early March. While the Ben on a Bench statue on Locust Walk won't hear a thing, students a little further down the road will soon feel the rhythm, when an alcohol-free indie rock music venue moves into 4040 Locust Street. At a zoning board of adjustments meeting yesterday afternoon, city officials and community residents approved zoning changes to permit a music club at the space next to the Video Library, the former Urban Outfitters site. The move will allow 4040, previously called Stalag 2000, to open by early March, according to Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official. Lussenhop said the zoning board supported the stipulations of both the University and community that 4040 Locust be a place of public assembly barring the sale of alcohol, food or beverages. No alcohol may be brought to the property either. Club co-owner Sean Agnew said he is hoping for a March 3 opening for 4040, where he said he and partners Anthony Croasdale and Andrew Martini will run two or three shows every week for the facility's first few months. "At this point, it looks like it's gonna happen," Agnew said yesterday. "There [are] no other barriers." Agnew said there were very few concerns at yesterday's hearing, noting that the zoning board questioned only the hypothetical possibility of raves occurring at the site. Lussenhop added that some issues were raised about the University's control over the establishment. He answered these by saying Penn will learn how to carry out shows "event by event" over the next few years. 4040 Locust Street will serve as a temporary location until the University finds a permanent venue more suitable for a music club. According to Lussenhop, the 4040 Locust site requires "very modest" renovations, including a new door, stage and the removal of a stairwell. With the arrival of a music club, Hillel programming -- currently held in the building over the Sabbath -- will not be displaced, according to officials. "The two uses will co-exist," Lussenhop said yesterday. Hillel Director Jeremy Brochin said he understood that the club will not be open during Sabbath events, while his organization holds services. And Agnew said 4040 will start shows after Friday night services, adding that the club will not operate during the week of Passover later in the spring. According to Lussenhop, 4040 shows will begin at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. and last until about midnight. Spruce Hill Community Association President Barry Grossbach signed a letter last month, indicating that the community did not oppose the granting of the University's license to the club's operators. He said the University will deal with any problems that arise, adding that the lease is under Penn and not the owners of the club. Agnew has been in talks with the University about opening a club in the area since last summer. In the fall, plans to build the venue at 40th and Market streets fell through because, Agnew said at the time, Penn officials were afraid the club would increase area crime. Students reacted with petitions, signs and letters and Penn officials resumed their discussions with Agnew shortly afterward. When the club opens, it will fulfill the alcohol task force's recommendation to open a late-night, alcohol-free music club on or near campus. Students praised the zoning decision. "It's an integral part of the 40th Street development," said Social Planning and Events Committee President Jonathan Herrmann, a Wharton senior whom administrators consulted in the club's initial planning. "It's right on campus, and people will just want to go check it out." Herrmann added, "It's gonna be awesome."
(02/04/00 10:00am)
Freshgrocer.com, opening by July, will provide a variety of foods only steps away from Penn's campus. Students and West Philadelphians can shop for groceries in style starting this summer. Freshgrocer.com, an innovative specialty foods supermarket topped by an 800-car parking garage, will open in July, according to the establishment's owner and operator Pat Burns, an area grocery entrepreneur. Officials said the 31,000-square-foot facility standing on the northwest corner of 40th and Walnut streets remains on budget. Featuring freshly prepared foods, cooked on the premises in a state-of-the-art open kitchen, the new market will offer a deli, coffee bar, juice bar and sushi bar on the lower level of the complex located three blocks east of Brown's Thriftway -- the only other supermarket in University City. The new market will also provide inter-state catering, through which customers will be able to order hot or cold foods from the comfort of their home via phone or computer, Burns said. He added that the catering details, including delivery locations and food availability, will be worked out by March. According to Burns, who owns two popular supermarkets in the Philadelphia suburbs, Freshgrocer.com will offer indoor and outdoor seating on its ground floor and mezzanine, with an entrance and elevators on 40th Street. A conveyor system -- visible from 40th Street -- will transport grocery bags to a parcel pick-up in the parking garage, he added. "It's an exciting corner," Burns said Tuesday, pointing to the new market's millennial feel. Calling his establishment "an international type of grocery market," Burns said Freshgrocer.com will offer a wide selection of multicultural food from 6 or 7 a.m. until 10 or 11 p.m., servicing everyone from "neighbors to professors to students." Penn and University City District officials said they hope that the additions of the Sundance Cinemas complex, going up across the street, and Freshgrocer.com will transform 40th Street into a lively retail corridor, complete with coffee shops, restaurants and clothing stores. "Sundance will be phenomenal for the area," Burns said Tuesday. Freshgrocer.com will open before its Sundance neighbor, which will debut in the fall at the earliest. Executive Vice President John Fry said budget problems and the high demand for steel across the city will delay construction of the eight-screen independent movie house by at least three months. On Tuesday, Tom Lussenhop, the University's top real estate official, said Freshgrocer.com will benefit the community. "[The supermarket] is trying to make the otherwise dreary exercise of shopping a little more pleasant," Lussenhop said. Burns is not a newcomer to the supermarket arena, owning two 80,000-square-foot supermarkets -- Drexeline Supervalu in Drexel Hill , Pa., and Barclay Square Supervalu in Upper Darby, Pa. In November, the supermarket's unfinished structure hosted the Beaux Arts Ball -- the largest charity event for a single beneficiary in the nation -- which is hosted annually at a major Philadelphia construction site.
