Inspiration for this podcast came from a trip to Philadelphia back in August to attend the National Association of Black Journalists conference.  It was my first visit there and so I had to go see that most famous landmark, the Liberty Bell. The only thing I’d known about the Bell was the celebrated crack. The Liberty Bell Center does a great job of putting the Bell in a wider context.  It symbolized freedom not only in 1776 but also for slaves and women in later times.  As for the crack, it appeared in the bell in 1846 and was repaired.  It cracked again the next time it was rung and since then it has neither been rung nor repaired.  No point repeating history, I guess.

Meeting Tony Luke, owner of his namesake restaurant was another highlight of the trip.  Truly, Food Channel should give him his own show.  A former kickboxer, as well as actor and musician, he is passionate about both Philly and his cheesesteak.  His cheesesteaks have won a slew of awards and he says the secret is he makes his own bread and uses solid rib-eye steak sliced thin.

One thing I’ll do next time in Philly is take the constitution tour of several sites important to American history.  I’d love to see the Franklin Post Office and Museum, which dates from 1775. Among his many talents, Franklin was the first Postmaster General, and the postmark “B. Free Franklin” is still used there to cancel stamps. It was Franklin’s personal signature that allowed him to send mail free of charge (but not us!)

Practical Info

How to Get There:  Several airlines service the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. U.S. Airways has a hub.  Northeasteners may also try Amtrak or a shuttle bus from major cities.

When to go:  Spring, summer or fall are best, though rates tend to be cheaper in the winter.

Upcoming Events: 

Mummers Parade — New Year’s Day

Philadelphia Flower Show (world’s largest) — March 4-11, 2012

Welcome America! (nation’s largest free outdoor concert)  — July 4

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