bookmark_borderThundersnow Record Winter

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia region has been experiencing a record breaking winter. The number and size of the snowfalls have set several records. There has also been a wide variety of storms: snow storms, ice storms, and thundersnow. The ice storm in early February was a record breaker for people that lost electricity. Some people also experienced the longest length of time without power.

Storm on February 13, 2014
Storm on February 13, 2014

bookmark_borderSeascapes By The Seaside

SEASCAPES by Bensignor

The Sea is the subject, the muse of my one-person show at the GREAT BAY GALLERY in Somers Point, NJ. The show runs from June 23 to July 19, 2014. The opening reception at the Great Bay Gallery will be on Friday, June 25 from 5-7pm.

The subject of my show is not only about, the artwork, but what happens between the viewer and art. It is not unlike hearing a piece of music caught in an object. It is how one responds to the object that makes it art.

I take a familiar subject; in this case the subject is The Sea, and try and infuse it with my energy, emotions and experiences.

All humans have in some way have/had a connection with the sea. Some scientists believe our species developed from the sea. The human body is 50% or more made up of water. Our planet is 98.9% made up of water.

Personal history with the sea:
Besides coming to the New Jersey shore my whole life, I have been living along side of the Atlantic Ocean, I have bathed in it, swam in it contemplated it, and feared it. I lost a grandfather and a close cousin to the ocean. In each piece of art that I make with the subject of the sea, I try to commemorate their lives.

The style:
I try to fuse the reality of the form with the Romantic. At the core of each person is there not the Romantic?
Art is a way of communicating, the energy of our universe that flows in us and to one another.

If my work can contribute to one FEELING SOMETHING, then I have succeeded.”

bookmark_borderWhy Do Business in Philadelphia?

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Located midway between New York and Washington DC Philadelphia is a strategic location on the East Coast, and is at the center of a dynamic and thriving region of over 6.1 million people. We offer an ideal environment for established companies and entrepreneurs.

  • Philadelphia is the nation’s fifth largest city, with the third largest residential downtown in the country.
  • Compared to major peer cities in the northeast region, affordable Class A office rental rates, lower labor costs, and inexpensive cost of living, make Philadelphia a smart financial choice for your business location. Read more.
  • In partnership with the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation, the City works with companies of all types to offer resources and incentives for new and growing businesses in Philadelphia, including:
    • Low-cost financing and tax credits for job creation
    • Site selection assistance for publically owned properties
    • Assistance to support workforce recruiting and training

Call the Department of Commerce at 215.683.2100 or email startupphl@phila.gov for more details.

Key Sectors in Philadelphia

The City’s economy is anchored by a diverse set of industries, such as life sciences and healthcare, professional services, advanced manufacturing and logistics, hospitality and a growing startup community.

With tens of thousands of tech workers, Philadelphia’s tech scene is a tight-knit community that finds collaboration and innovation from within.
Philadelphia’s rich manufacturing heritage has developed into a diverse and sophisticated advanced manufacturing sector today.
Strong research infrastructure supports the nation’s 2nd largest Life Sciences clusters.
Our clean technology sector is supported by a network of private and public resources that attracts growing companies.
With one of the most vibrant art, theater, music and museum scenes in the country, private creative firms thrive in Philadelphia.
From automobiles to pharmaceuticals, diverse industries take advantage of Philadelphia’s transportation networks.
The City has made substantial investments in its convention and tourism infrastructure, driving private investment in hotels.
Revisions to City tax regulations have enhanced the business climate for investment companies.

International Business Attraction

The City of Philadelphia invites businesses from around the world to explore the many benefits of locating here. A diverse city with a growing international reputation of vibrancy and excellence, 17% of Philadelphia’s population are foreign-born or immigrants.

We play an integral part in attracting foreign business and investment and increasing opportunities for Philadelphia-based companies looking to expand abroad, whatever the size or industry. We provide comprehensive assistance through our strategic partnership with key partners such as the World Trade Center, Philadelphia Convention and Visitor Bureau, State of Pennsylvania, and International Visitors Council.

We can help you identify:

  • Best markets and networks
  • Trade leads
  • Investment opportunities
  • Financing Location Financial Incentives

Commerce also helps coordinate inbound and outbound trade missions for Philadelphia representatives, raising our profile among foreign investors and increase international business opportunities for Philadelphia businesses.