The digital version of the December issue is now online (paper copies hit the streets this week). Peruse at your leisure, and don’t forget to swing by South Philly Taproom tonight for the release party.

Arcadia Boutique, the No-Libs spot for unique, sustainably-made clothing, has just opened a second location in Rittenhouse Square. The new store will offer the same selection of women’s wear, but the move has also freed up space in the No-Libs location for an expanded selection of men’s clothing. To celebrate the move, Arcadia is hosting

New York Magazine has a great series of features that proclaim “Vegetables are the New Meat.” No, they’re not saying that everyone is going vegetarian, rather that produce is finally getting its due: This new breed of plant lover isn’t motivated entirely by ethical, environmental, or even health concerns (though those reasons come into play),

Need another reason to come to South Philly Taproom tomorrow night? In honor of the occasion, Flying Fish will be tapping the first Grand Cru Winter Reserve Ale firkin of the season. Here’s what the brewery has to say on their site: This Belgian-style strong golden ale showcases a variety of the ingredients and brewing methods

The Kensington Community Food Co-op (KCFC) has been working mighty hard for the past two years to organize and plan out their vision for a cooperative grocery store. The truth is, opening a store is expensive and the KCFC needs some help. This Thursday, they're hosting "Classy Night Out with the Co-op."
For only $10, attendees

Reminder: This Wednesday, come celebrate the latest issue of Grid at South Philly Taproom. Think of it as your first Holiday Party of the season. Flying Fish will be tapping a firkin, and the bar will offer half-price local drafts and discounted apps (5-7 p.m.). What more could you ask for?  Visit facebook for more details.

Friday Morning Pick-Me-Up. Update: Brownstoner has a run-down of reactions to the opening.

The long-awaited groundbreaking ceremony for the Race Street Pier will happen on November 9. This new public space is scheduled to open in spring 2011. Mayor Nutter and others notables will offer remarks.
The landscape is being designed by nationally-acclaimed James Corner Field Operations. The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation hopes this vibrant new space will attract residents

Being environmentally aware often comes with a little bit of OCD—meticulous composting, avoiding plastic water bottles like they’ll inflict you with the plague and making sure your meals are prepared using entirely local ingredients. The truth is, attempting to be the “perfect environmentalist” will eventually drive you mad.
Bringing a baby into the equation—along with questions

There’s some exciting news on the urban farming front. Urban Tree Connection (UTC), the West Philly based urban greening non-profit, just announced that it has been appointed the conservator of an abandoned property. The group transformed the vacant land into a farm this year. The decision was one of the first made under the Pennsylvania Abandoned