Hello Fishtown! I am excited for you to check out our third edition of TheHook dedicated to the lifestyle and community of Fishtown.
We start our issue with La Borinqueña in the heart of Norris Square. The larger-than-life image on the side of the building at 148 W. Norris St. was created by New York–based writer and artist Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez. Painted in 2022 with Mural Arts Philadelphia, it is both a celebration of Puerto Rican heritage bringing focus to Puerto Rican women and a call to action. Take a look on page 6.
Next, we visit Kismet Bagels, an idea born of extra time during the pandemic through the vision of couple Jacob and Alexandra Cohen. They kicked off the bagel venture at their home in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia by making products for healthcare workers during the pandemic. Fishtown was Kismet Bagel’s first location; it opened in April 2022. Follow their destiny on page 8.
Midway we follow Shawnick Rodriguez’s love of art, which became a way to process difficult times. Over the years, it grew into Art By SIR, a brand that reflects her identity and Latin roots. What started as personal expression turned into a platform to share stories, celebrate culture and inspire others. See the inspiration on page 10.
We round our issue fulfilling a need at Montessori Fishtown. Resident Denise Spetrino began looking for a school that would provide her child with a quality early-education program that encouraged learning by experiencing the world around her and fostering independence. She found it in the Montessori school philosophy. Learn how on page 12.
Also check out The Catch on page 21 for future community events and enjoy the Entertainment Column on page 2 for the latest scoop. All of this and more awaits on the pages ahead!
Enjoy!
