February 9, 2012 | by Steve Currall | Morning Blend | Apple Storage, Bart Blatstein, Chestnut Hill, Chestnut Hill Community Association, Philadelphia Media Network, Wayne Junction, West Philadelphia
- Pennsylvania’s Historical Preservation Review Board has approved the listing of Wayne Junction as a National Historic District, making it only the second within the city’s limits. NewsWorks reports that the property owners of the 17 included buildings will now qualify for a 20% tax credit in order to assist in preservation efforts.
- Chestnut Hill resident Linda Baldwin has written an opinion piece in the Chestnut Hill Local on what she feels is the Community Association’s (CHCA) attempt to preserve a homogeneous, “lily white” population, adverse to “outsiders.” Baldwin mentions the CHCA’s unwillingness to further a community discussion concerning the future of the vacated Borders store, and the Green Woods Charter School’s attempt to buy property on the Hill, as proof of this xenophobia.
- The Atlantic Cities discusses a new report released by the Urban Institute, studying racial inequality in American cities. Philadelphia does not fare too well, coming in at 91/100 for equity; however, this is keeping with the Northeast US.
- University City Review looks at opposition for Iron Stone Management’s plans to seek a zoning variance for the Apple Storage facility at 708 South 52nd Street and adapt it into a mixed-use project, with 112 residential apartments and 2,000 square feet of ground level retail space. Points of contention include property tax concerns and employment opportunities for neighborhood residents.
- The Inquirer reports that Bart Blatstein and four others have formed an exploratory company in their considerations in acquiring Philadelphia Media Network Inc., the parent company of the Inquirer, Daily News, and philly.com.
About the author

Stephen Currall recently received his BA in history from Arcadia University. Before beginning doctoral studies, he is pursuing his interest in local history, specifically just how Philadelphians engage their vibrant past. Besides skimming through 18th century letters, Steve is also interested in music and travel.
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