Philly News Briefs: 10/27/15

1.) Actor Richard Gere was on hand along with other representatives of the Dalai Lama to receive the medal intended for His Holiness. The Dalai Lama was supposed to come to the States himself to receive the medal, but announced last month that poor health would keep him from doing so. The Liberty Medal is presented on the basis of kindness, compassion, and commitment to human rights. The Dalai Lama said in a video statement that he was sorry to not be able to receive the award in person and that he was committed “until death” to following the precepts of liberty and human kindness. The Liberty Medal is awarded each year to individuals who possess “courage and conviction who strive to secure the blessings of liberty to people around the globe.”

The Pumpkin Spice Latte is one of the ubiquitous food tastes of autumn. But it’s not the only one.

2.) Sports channel ESPN will descend upon the City of Brotherly Love this weekend as a major football rivalry plays out on the big screen. The College Game Day show will kick off in front of Independence Hall as Temple University gears up for a showdown against Notre Dame, ranked number 9. The Owls are ranked number 21 but are unbeaten so far this season. The game will be shown at 8PM Eastern time on the ABC channel from Lincoln Financial Field.

3.) Starbucks isn’t the only game in town in Philadelphia when it comes to tastes of pumpkin. While the infamous pumpkin spice latte is by far the most famous taste of fall, it is far from the only one. This fantastic roundup lists many of the places in Philly where you can nosh on pumpkin-flavored treats, including main dishes and desserts alike.