Back in August, we were invited to speak on a panel called "The Next Great American City? Reconsidering Philadelphia's Future," which was co-hosted by Drexel University and Next American City, a new(ish) magazine that had recently moved its headquarters to the City of Brotherly Love. We've since grown to really dig the magazine and the issues it tackles—specifically, addressing the problems faced by urban areas and then discussing how to make cities better for generations to come.

We also dig the magazine's ethos when it comes to cultivating readership: namely, throwing parties. The next party is coming up tomorrow, at the new Ms. Tootsie's Bar & Lounge, and it's in celebration of the mag's newest issue, "Living Under Peril," which will feature pieces on topics ranging from exiling sex offenders to counterfeit urbanism to green oil revenue. And they've expanded their definition of "America" in this issue to include Latin America, covering Sao Paolo's decision to outlaw outdoor advertising as "visual pollution," thus leaving decaying billboards and empty frames scattered throughout the city's landscape.

And even if that doesn't excite you, the party should still be a good time. There's no dress code, no cover charge, and lots of interesting people to meet. Who knows: that tall drink of water over at the bar may strike up a conversation with you about the new American dream and end up becoming yours.

Next American City’s 18th Issue Launch Party
Friday, March 21, 6-8PM
Ms. Tootsie's Bar & Lounge (1314 South Street)
Free; RSVP recommended