Fishtown over 40 years: music, housing and a man who’s no longer afraid

Guests: William Reed, Chris Ward, Sandy Salzman, Sandy Smith

In this hour, Radio Times producer Elizabeth Fiedler takes us on a journey through one Philadelphia neighborhood that’s experienced dramatic change over the past few decades. Fishtown, just northeast of Center City, is now home to many new residents, restaurants and shops. We’ll start with producer Elizabeth Fiedler’s interview with WILLIAM REED, the co-owner of a bar/restaurant/music venue called Johnny Brenda’s, and with Johnny Brenda’s Talent Buyer CHRIS WARD. Then, Lizz talks with SANDY SALZMAN, the Executive Director of the New Kensington Community Development Corporation. Salzman has experienced the change firsthand: she’s lived in Fishtown her entire life and has lead the community group for almost 20 years. Finally, Lizz talks with Philadelphia Magazine Editor SANDY SMITH, about how things have changed since he wrote an article a few years ago called, “Confession, I’m Black, and I Used to Be Afraid to Walk Around Fishtown.”