City Cast Philly

While the Phillies are number one in the league right now, is the Phanatic the best mascot in baseball? And how did a giant, flightless bird from the Galápagos wind up representing us anyway? We’re revisiting a conversation host Trenae Nuri had last year with AJ Mass, editor and writer at ESPN and author of “Yes, It’s Hot in Here,” about his experience as a mascot for the New York Mets and how the Phanatic became the model for future mascots to follow. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’ve got the details on the Bartram's Garden official’s response to a ‘potential chemical contamination’ and Great Valley School District’s reaction to a TikTok controversy. Plus, two Philadelphia state House representatives resigned this week. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Philadelphia Inquirer’s Maddie Hanna, education reporter; Gillian McGoldrick, state government reporter; and Frank Kummer, environmental reporter. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Traces of snow observed at Philadelphia airport amid heat wave Two Philly state representatives resign, putting Democrats’ majority in the House on hold once again Bartram’s Garden closes trail because of ‘potential chemical contamination’ nearby Malvern middle schoolers created more than 20 TikTok accounts that impersonated teachers and posted inappropriate content Students Target Teachers in Group TikTok Attack, Shaking Their School More than 200 people show up at Great Valley school board, pushing back on district’s TikTok response Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

From street sweeping to road repairs, there’s a massive citywide cleanup underway. It’s all a part of “One Philly” – Mayor Parker’s plan to clean the city’s nearly 18,000 blocks this summer. So, how have the cleaning efforts been going? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Meir Rinde, investigative reporter at WHYY’S Billy Penn, about what’s getting fixed, residents’ reactions to the cleanup efforts, and what the lasting impact might be. Read Meir’s full story here. Find out when cleaning crews are coming to your neighborhood in this online map (click “2024 Citywide Cleaning Schedule”). Plus, here’s how to make a 311 service request. Check out our episodes on illegal dumping, and how to recycle and repurpose your old junk. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 18th episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

You can never go wrong with pizza! So, we're dishing about where to get the most satisfying slice — or pie — here in the city. We’re taking it back to a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly food contributor Dave Wez about the best places to grab anything from Detroit-style slices to Indian fusion pizza. Pizza places mentioned in this episode: Angelo’s Pizzeria Bar 1010 Bella Italia &pizza Blaze Pizza SNAP Custom Pizza Lorenzo and Sons Pizza Paulie Gee’s Soul City Slice Shop Wawa Manco & Manco (Ocean City) Polizzi's Brick Oven (Washington Township) Brooklyn Original Pizzeria (Haddon Heights) Little Sicily Pizza II Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 17th episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The state just passed a $47.6 billion dollar budget. It was only two weeks late this time — not bad, by Pennsylvania standards — and set a bunch of new priorities. Spotlight PA’s capitol reporter Stephen Caruso joins City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris and City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri to talk about where the state is putting its money and what got left on the cutting room floor. We also mentioned this episode from last year about why school funding in PA isn’t fair. You can also check out City Cast Pittsburgh’s episode on school vouchers. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 16th episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s been super hot this summer, with temperatures climbing above 90 degrees and humidity making it feel even hotter. What’s the deal with these heat waves, and is weather like this going to be the new normal in Philly? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Glenn “Hurricane” Schwartz, award-winning meteorologist, about why it’s so hot, the urban heat island effect, and what Philadelphians can do to mitigate climate change. See which neighborhoods in Philly are most affected by the urban heat island effect (you’ll need to select Philadelphia from the list of cities) — and how we compare to other urban areas — in these maps from Climate Central. Check out our guides on how the urban heat island effect impacts Philly, and ways to stay cool this summer. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 15th episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about Mayor Cherelle Parker defending her return-to-office policy, and a lawsuit trying to block it. Plus, Pennsylvania’s license plate redesign, how to stay cool in Philly’s extreme heat, and some of the most Philly things we saw on social media this week. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Mike D’Onofrio, reporter at Axios Philadelphia, and Alex Hillman, co-founder of Indy Hall Clubhouse. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: The Best Ways To Stay Cool in Philly How To Keep Your Dog Safe in the Philly Heat Mayor Cherelle Parker defends her strict return-to-office policy for city workers a day before the dispute heads to court Wawa fan collects every order slip from 000-999 then asks ‘What do I do with my life now?’ Wawa to close Port Richmond store after 45 years Check out the Bungee Brand’s Poncho: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8u77vSur_s/ The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is debuting a new license plate in 2025! Sign up to be first to get one of the new license plates. Indy Hall Reading Club Listen to Mayor Cherelle Parker’s press conference on her return-to-office policy on the city’s Facebook page. You can find out more about SEPTA’s trolley maintenance blitz here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 12th episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Philadelphia Zoo — aka America’s first zoo — is celebrating its 150th anniversary this month. And, there’s been lots of hype, from a new celebratory zoo key design to Mayor Cherelle Parker’s announcement that July 1st is now “Philadelphia Zoo Day.” So, we took a trip to the zoo and host Trenae Nuri sat down with President and CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman to talk about notable milestones and her favorite things to see and do at Philly’s historical zoo. Check out the zoo’s upcoming events. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 11th episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Ice cream was invented more than two thousand years ago, but 19th-century Philadelphians played a significant role in revolutionizing the process. So how come we don’t know about them? Host Trenae Nuri talks with food historian and co-host of the City Cast Las Vegas podcast Sarah Lohman about Philadelphia-style ice cream, and the women and Black culinary professionals whose innovations made it what it is today. Check out Sarah’s latest book, “Endangered Eating: America's Vanishing Foods.” We also mentioned the Netflix series “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America” based on the book by Jessica B. Harris. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 10th episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

What comes to your mind when you think of Pennsylvania? Over the years, we have adopted all sorts of plants, animals, and even a drink to represent our Commonwealth, but not all of these symbols and the stories behind them are common knowledge. Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar is putting the City Cast Philly team to the test. Come play along with us! (And special thanks to Sophia Lo, City Cast Pittsburgh producer, for sharing their research and putting together many of these questions.) Here's the ruffed grouse recipe we mentioned in the episode. The Cheesesteak Quest is sponsored by Tecovas. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: Babbel Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

This summer, host Trenae Nuri is going on a mission to figure out who makes the best cheesesteak in Philly. To kick things off, we’re revisiting a conversation we had this spring with Dave Wez, City Cast Philly’s food contributor and creator of Feeding Time TV, and Carolyn Wyman, author of “The Great Philly Cheesesteak Book,” about what makes the perfect cheesesteak, and how to order one. They discuss their top cheesesteak spots, which places are overrated, and what the biggest red flags are when picking a cheesesteak spot. The spots mentioned in this episode: Pat’s Geno’s John’s Roast Pork Angelo’s Dalessandro’s Philip’s Donkey’s Leo’s Lilo’s Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 8th episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with hosts from all 13 City Cast daily local podcast hubs to talk about what stories they’re watching in their hometowns that are likely to impact yours too. Listen in for how Trenae Nuri's story stacks up against the rest. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 5th episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The nation’s 250th anniversary, also known as its semiquincentennial, is coming up in two years, and preparations have already begun. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Stephanie Farr, Philly culture columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, about why Philly is “woefully behind” on this front, and if Independence Park will be ready in 2026. Check out Stephanie’s piece about Boston’s Freedom Trail, and how Philly could benefit from something similar. Still figuring out what to do for this year’s 4th of July? There’s always the Wawa Welcome America Festival! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 3rd episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In our midweek news roundup, we discuss why state lawmakers missed the budget deadline, the Little League scandal in Springfield, and the new tech coming to some ShopRites. Plus, the Sixers are getting some new players. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent for The Philadelphia Tribune, and Isaac Avilucea, reporter at Axios Philadelphia. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: ShopRite to bring scan-as-you-go smart carts to some Philly region stores Pennsylvania to begin new fiscal year without budget, as Shapiro, lawmakers express optimism SEPTA approves next year’s budget, but its financial future is contingent on state spending plan Scoop: Springfield Little League ousts board member over flyover stunt Paul George agrees to 4-year, $212M deal with 76ers, ESPN sources say Drummond ‘in the mood for a Philly cheesesteak,' set to return to Sixers Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 2nd episode: Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. It’s finally summertime! In this episode, you’ll hear our best tips for enjoying July in Philly, from outdoor movies to a West Philly restaurant week and some top-notch festivals. If you’re planning on going to the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival, don’t miss our episode on can’t-miss restaurants in Chinatown. For even more tips on how to make the most of July in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this month. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include how Philly may have improperly spent federal opioid settlement money in Kensington, and the "extended-day, extended-year" school pilot program. Plus, two bold porch pirates fight over a package in Berks County. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Larry Platt, co-founder at The Philadelphia Citizen, and Sammy Caiola, special projects reporter at Kensington Voice. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Video captures dueling porch pirates race to steal package outside Berks County home Philly’s use of some opioid dollars for Kensington is “non-compliant,” per state trust. Future funding is in question. Get arrested for drugs in Kensington? Here's a chart that explains the process. ‘Don’t fall on a needle’: When you’re a kid in Kensington, it’s not safe to play outside Mayor Cherelle Parker unveils details of Philadelphia schools’ ‘extended-day, extended-year’ pilot The Philadelphia mayor’s plan for year-round school is taking shape. What will it look like? Catch Sammy at the Improvised Tony Awards at the SideQuest Theater this weekend! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 28th episode: Tecovas Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

With Philly’s easy access to the mid-Atlantic coast, it’s no surprise that seafood has been a popular choice for Philadelphians since at least the turn of the century. So whether you're on the shore or in the city this summer, the choices are endless, from Sweet Amalia oysters on the half shell to local bluefish and much more. Host Trenae Nuri talks with freelance food and travel writer Alisha Miranda about where to get the best seafood in town, and all things aquaculture. Read Alisha’s full story here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 27th episode: Tecovas Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Black infants in Philadelphia are more likely to die within the first year of their lives than babies of other races or ethnicities. In order to help reduce these high infant mortality rates, the city is launching Philly Joy Bank, a guaranteed income pilot program for 250 pregnant Philadelphians. Last spring, host Trenae Nuri talked with Dr. Stacey Kallem, pediatrician and director of the Division of Maternal, Child and Family Health at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and Lydia Seymour, Community Action Network coordinator for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s division of Maternal, Child and Family Health, about how this pilot program will support expecting Philadelphians. Find out more about the Philly Joy Bank program and how to apply. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 26th episode: Tecovas Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup! What’s up with the new I-95 sign? Plus, the team breaks down SEPTA’s higher fines for disorderly conduct and the designs for the new trolleys coming in 2027. Also, follow along with a Philly news quiz. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by producer Abby Fritz and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: New I-95 sign misspelled near site of Philadelphia bridge collapse in city's Tacony section SEPTA is upping penalties for smoking, urinating, drunkenness and other bad behavior on transit Check Out SEPTA’s Sexy New Trolley Design New SEPTA trolleys will be more spacious and accessible to people with disabilities Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Heat warning is in effect for Philly for ‘dangerously hot’ conditions into Sunday evening How hot Philly’s summer got in five charts Despite record global heat, Philly had coolest summer since 2014 in 2023 Gopuff reaches its 'biggest-ever partnership' with Tom Brady Trump goes to Tony & Nick’s for a cheesesteak, completing a Philly trilogy Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 25th episode: Tecovas Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Philly is a city of neighborhoods, and those neighborhoods are always changing — including the way written language is used in public spaces. Daniel Guarin is a PhD candidate in Hispanic linguistics at Temple University, and he looked at over 3,000 signs in three heavily Latino neighborhoods: Fairhill’s “The Golden Block,” Olney, and the Italian Market area. Host Trenae Nuri chats with Guarin about his findings, and how these neighborhoods have evolved linguistically. Read more about Guarin’s study here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 24th episode: Tecovas Babbel Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include the increased police presence in Kensington, this week’s heat wave, and how the SS United States is being forced to leave its South Philly berth in September. Plus, if Philly’s statues, murals, and other public art came to life, who would win in a fight? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by newsletter editor Asha Prihar and producer Abby Fritz. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Philly’s Heat Health Emergency is in effect amid scorching temps Philly heat wave: Here’s what you need to know about the Heat Health Emergency, Code Red and more Dozens of new police will soon be deployed to Kensington, and stricter drug enforcement will begin in mid-June Philadelphia police launch enforcement blitz in Kensington SS United States must leave its South Philadelphia berth by mid-September, judge rules Check out our interview with reporter Ximena Conde about the “Ikea boat,” and our conversation this spring about the Kensington encampment sweep. Want to take a deeper dive into the “which Philly statue would win in a fight” debate? Here’s the Reddit thread that inspired today’s conversation, plus a map of many of Philly’s statues and public artworks. Need some resources to help you stay cool during this heatwave? Check out this map of the city’s cooling centers. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this June 21st episode: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Parking in Philly is not for the faint of heart. There’s official regulations and then there’s unwritten rules, legal or otherwise. Last August, host Trenae Nuri sat down with producer Abby Fritz and former executive producer Laura Benshoff to talk through their hacks for finding the best parking spots in the city. Find out more about the recent crackdown on illegal parking in Philly. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this June 20th episode: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Gov. Shapiro says he wants to fully legalize recreational cannabis; what’s the holdup in the legislature? City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris talks with Spotlight PA reporter Ed Mahon about where Pennsylvania stands on this issue, particularly in light of Ohio’s expanded access. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this June 18th episode: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Whether you love our Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, or Sixers, one thing is clear: Philly is a very sports-oriented city. But is there something missing in our sports culture? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Diana Lind, writer and urban policy specialist, about why she thinks Philly needs a sports mayor, and what that role could look like here. Check out Diana’s Substack, The New Urban Order, where she makes the case for sports mayors. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this June 17th episode: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include why the city is rejecting certain block party applications and the closure of all OCF Coffee House locations. Plus, the Kelce brothers have a new business. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent for The Philadelphia Tribune, and Nicole Phoenix, standup comedian and producer. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Some Philadelphia block parties derailed by summer safety issues All OCF Coffee House locations close permanently, a week after workers moved to unionize Jason & Travis Kelce Join Forces for The First Time as Owners and Operators of Garage Beer From North Philly to Paris: Kahleah Copper’s road to 2024 Olympics a journey of tears, setbacks and success How To Celebrate Juneteenth in Philly Check out this link for more information on Nicole’s comedy event at Two Locals Brewing June 28. Interested in performing yourself? Sign up here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In 2011, the Philadelphia Water Department created the 25-year, $2.4 billion “Green City, Clean Waters” program to fix the city’s aging sewer systems. However, even though the program has been nationally recognized for its innovative green infrastructure, it’s turning out to be more costly than expected. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Kyle Bagenstose, an independent environmental journalist, about these cost increases, and if the city needs a better plan to handle its sewage problems. Read Kyle’s full story on the “Green City, Clean Waters” program here. Learn more about the “Green City, Clean Waters” program, and how you can get involved. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Breakfast tacos made their Philly debut 15 years ago, but they’ve experienced a resurgence recently thanks to Taco Heart. Host Trenae Nuri chats with Jenn Ladd, food reporter at the Inquirer, about what breakfast tacos are, why they deserve the hype they’ve been getting, and her favorite breakfast taco spots in Philly. Check out more of Jenn’s reporting on breakfast tacos here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup! The team talks about Mayor Cherelle Parker’s first city budget, which got the green light from City Council last week. Plus, a Philly sports mascot has a new song, and we have a Philly news quiz that you can play along with. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Anna Orso, City Hall reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Winners and losers from the first city budget in Philly’s Parker-Johnson era Council green-lights Mayor Cherelle Parker’s budget plans, including $100 million for a Northeast Philly drug rehab center Philly’s next city budget will fund University City affordable housing, library upgrades, and Mural Arts A glorious choral hymn about Gritty premieres this weekend Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Kimmel Center’s historic tribute: Marian Anderson Hall unveiled UArts had explored a possible merger with Drexel two years ago — but it didn’t materialize Pa. House passes bill to provide free pads and tampons for students Listen to our interview with Aaron Moselle to learn more about the affordable housing project in University City. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Last Monday, District Attorney Larry Krasner announced that the Big Naddy Gang in North Philly is “history,” thanks to the recent arrests of BNG members. Some think that arrests like these are part of the reason for the dramatic decrease in shootings and homicides since 2021. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Ellie Rushing, criminal justice and law enforcement reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, about the state of gang violence in Philly, and the code of silence that keeps potential witnesses from speaking up. Check out Ellie’s recent reporting here, including her story about the young man who defied the code of silence in Philly. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include the University of the Arts closure, where the city should put the intercity bus station, and the mystery behind Old City’s cloud billboard. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Inga Saffron, architecture columnist at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Conrad Benner, founder of StreetsDept.com, curator at Mural Arts and host of WHYY’s Art Outside podcast. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: University of the Arts closure coverage from the Inquirer It’s time for Philly to build a proper bus station. Here are six possible locations. Overbrook Night Market Summer of Wonder Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Philly’s nationally recognized Eviction Diversion Program was created by city ordinance during the pandemic in order to keep people in their homes, and has been extended several times. Last week, City Council voted to make the program permanent, pending Mayor Cherelle Parker’s approval. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Aaron Moselle, housing reporter at WHYY’s PlanPhilly, about what landlords, housing advocates, and tenants think of this program, and what it needs to continue in Philly long-term. Read Aaron’s full story here. Find out more about Philly’s Eviction Diversion Program and how to apply. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s Philly Beer Week, and many of the top craft brewers in the country are right here in Pennsylvania. If you’re looking for a local brew to try, we’ve got some options for you. Last year, host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris talked about and sampled some of the beers made in the commonwealth. Listen along and see if you agree with our takes. Here’s the Esquire list of the Best Bars in America in 2024. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup! The team talks about why the University of the Arts will close later this week, as well as the closing (and subsequent reopening) of Famous 4th Street Deli after health code violations. Plus, a Philly news quiz that you can play along with. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by producer Abby Fritz and arts and culture contributor Charles Tyson Jr. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: The University of the Arts is closing June 7, its president says University of the Arts students protest their school’s stunning closure — a shutdown unprecedented in recent higher ed history Famous 4th Street Deli is shut down over health issues; owner says they ‘dropped the ball’ Famous 4th Street Deli reopens after a ‘small army’ fixes health issues Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Sneakerheads line up for Nike Dunk Low ‘Philly’ shoes at Center City store The story behind the Nike ‘Philly’ Dunks, featuring a color-changing swoosh and plenty of local Easter eggs Philly starts the hunt for an intercity bus station near 30th Street Read more about food safety inspections in Philly here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Take it from us, Philly is a great place to live. Finding a place to call home, however, is not always easy. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Justin Forte, realtor for KW Empower & ForteLiving, about where to find the best rentals, what questions to ask, what you should know before signing your lease agreement, and how to avoid scams. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include the violence and chaos along the New Jersey shore over Memorial Day weekend, an initiative to recycle fallen trees, and what signifies the start of summer in Philly. Plus, the weird and wild stuff we saw on social media this week. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent at The Philadelphia Tribune, and comedian and writer Alan Massenburg. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Teen stabbed, multiple arrests made in Ocean City boardwalk chaos on Memorial Day weekend Following stabbing, Jersey Shore official says unruly teens won’t be allowed to ‘steal summer’ Philly's fallen trees are being turned into building material at Fairmount Park Philadelphia Reforestation Hub will upcycle urban wood waste to support the city’s climate goals Find out more here about how to get a tree planted on your block. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. Listen to the “Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose” series from our friends at City Cast Denver. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. Now that it’s (unofficially) summertime, we’re ready to get outside and explore the city. In this episode, you’ll hear our best tips for enjoying June in Philly, from the can’t-miss art festivals (most of them are free!) to our recommendations for celebrating Juneteenth and Pride. And if you’re digging newsletter editor Asha Prihar’s pizza crawl plans, don’t miss our episode on the best pizza in Philly! For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this month. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. You can reach us at [email protected]

We’re back with another midweek news roundup! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer, and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor, for an epic news quiz that covers the latest in politics, transportation, and local business news. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism (spoilers ahead, if you’re following along with the news quiz): SEPTA's overhauled bus routes approved after 2 years of public hearings and revisions Wissahickon Valley Park restoration project to limit access to Forbidden Drive for six months City Council may subpoena Mayor Parker over Fairmount addiction center President Biden will launch a coalition to shore up support with Black voters on Wednesday Cooperative Grocery Launches Germantown Store D.C.’s Little Gay Pub becomes a little bigger with a new location in Philly Click here for an interactive map of road closures and detours at Wissahickon Valley Park. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

There’s no debate that Philadelphians have an accent. Even within the city, the words and phrases you hear can sound different from neighborhood to neighborhood. We’re revisiting a conversation from earlier this year between host Trenae Nuri and comedian and writer Alan Massenburg, who grew up in West Philly, about these regional differences and what turns of phrase let you know someone is really from Philly. Check out Alan’s comedy album, We Got Action. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include Mayor Parker’s new return-to-office policy for city workers and how people are responding to the mandate, as well as updates on the Frank Rizzo statue lawsuit and its possible return. Plus, the local celebrity who has been dubbed “Most Valuable Philadelphian” by the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Jake Blumgart, commercial real estate reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Mike D’Onofrio, reporter at Axios Philadelphia. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Who’s "The Most Valuable Philadelphian"? Find out here. Mayor Cherelle Parker’s return-to-office policy caused a rift with union leaders. Here’s what could happen next. Scoop: Philadelphia's Frank Rizzo statue may return to supporters We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Summer’s right around the corner, which means that it’s the perfect time to eat outside! Host Trenae Nuri speaks with City Cast Philly food contributor Dave Wez (@feedingtimetv) about the best places to eat and drink al fresco, from patios and sidewalk cafes to breweries and rooftop bars. Places/events mentioned in this episode: Emmy Squared Pizza Irwin’s Attico Rooftop Urban Farmer Assembly Rooftop Lounge Bok Bar Stratus Lounge Sunset Social Moshulu Spirit of Philadelphia Southeast Asian Market Overbrook Night Market Suraya Positano Coast Stina Pizzeria Independence Beer Garden Evil Genius Beer Company SIPS Happy Hour We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly.

While there’s a lot of buzz lately about how Philadelphia will be celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary, local organizations like Historic Philadelphia Inc. have been bringing our rich history to life for decades. As the birthplace of America, after all, history is woven into our streets, buildings, and even people. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Geoffrey Berwind, artistic director and storyteller director at Historic Philadelphia Inc., about how his organization helps keep Philly’s history relevant through creative storytelling. Find out more about the Once Upon a Nation program, which is back for the summer starting this weekend. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup! The team talks about how Philly could be losing its spot as the sixth largest city in the country, as well as the curfews city lawmakers are proposing. Plus, the City Cast Philly team is testing their knowledge with the weekly news quiz. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer, and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Philadelphia could lose its spot as the 6th-biggest U.S. city, census data shows City Council gets curfew-crazy following Kensington Avenue bill Drexel on lockdown as university's president calls for pro-Palestinian encampment to end For more on the effectiveness of curfews on teens here. Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Most write-in votes in the Philly Democratic presidential primary weren’t for people. Why that signals success for ‘uncommitted.’ American Airlines adds new flights to tropical destinations from PHL for winter season Parker’s Clean and Green cabinet will start major Philly cleanup in June We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Philadelphia Housing Authority wants to build 70 affordable housing units on the former site of the University City Townhomes in West Philadelphia, but they’ve hit another snag. This $14 million development needs city funding to move forward, but the project wasn’t listed in Mayor Cherelle Parker’s first budget proposal or her administration’s five-year plan. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Aaron Moselle, housing reporter at WHYY’s PlanPhilly, about the future of this project. Read Aaron’s reporting here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include the Philadelphia Parking Authority’s crackdown on illegally parked vehicles and a new poll that takes a look at where the presidential candidates stand with PA voters. Plus, what the new Citizens Police Oversight Commission leader, Tonya McClary, plans for the watchdog group. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by two reporters from The Philadelphia Inquirer: political reporter Julia Terruso and criminal justice and law enforcement reporter Rodrigo Torrejón. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: PPA begins issuing tickets, fines amid crackdown on ADA mobility violations in Philadelphia Biden is struggling in Pa. — even with his base — as voters prefer Trump on major issues. Here are takeaways from a new Inquirer/NYT/Siena poll. Philly’s police oversight commission has a new director after a tumultuous year. Here’s what Tonya McClary wants for the agency. Philadelphia Water Department Projects & Construction Email: [email protected] To report construction‑related incidents or issues requiring immediate attention, please call (215) 685‑6300 Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Could this be the beginning of the end for lead pipes in Philly? New national regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency are calling for cities across the country to find and map all of their remaining lead pipes by October, and could require them to be replaced within 10 years. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with freelance journalist Zane Irwin about how the city will meet this deadline and the varying opinions on this plan to get lead out of the drinking water. Read Zane’s full story in Grid here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Chinatown is filled with rich history, culture and — of course — food. To give you the best experience possible next time you’re there, we’re revisiting the Chinatown food tour that City Cast Philly food contributor Dave Wez (@feedingtimetv) took host Trenae Nuri on, running down everything from his favorite Peking duck place to where you can find pastries that look like pieces of fruit. Chinatown businesses mentioned in the episode: Dim Sum Garden Cily Chicken Rice and Thai food Ocean Harbor Terakawa Ramen Nan Zhou Sang Kee Peking Duck House M Kee Lau Kee Tai Lake Ken’s Seafood David's Mai Lai Wah EMei Restaurant Tiger Sugar Prince Tea House A La Mousse Bar-Ly Yakitori Boy Tango Hop Sing Laundromat Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek roundup! Today’s topics include an update on the pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of Pennsylvania and the 24-hour cheese vending machine in the Olde Kensington neighborhood. Plus, we test your knowledge with a Philly news quiz. City Cast Philly podcast host Trenae Nuri is joined by City Cast Philly producer Abby Fritz and Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Police in riot gear arrest 33 protesters, including Penn students, at Gaza Solidarity Encampment Penn implements 'added security' for 2024 Commencement, removes details about student procession Philly Gets Its First 24-Hour Cheese Vending Machine The tech powering Philadelphia’s 24/7 cheese dispensary For more background on the Penn encampment from the Daily Pennsylvanian’s Editor-in-Chief Jared Mitovich, listen here. Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): How a Restaurant Trademark Battle Erupted Between a Las Vegas and Philly ‘Middle Child’ What to know about the Philadelphia Union’s newest — and youngest — player The Worst Cities To Drive In, Ranked Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

At 2908 W. Diamond Street sits the home of the world-renowned Black painter Henry Ossawa Tanner, who rose to fame in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1976, the home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but in the decades after it fell into disrepair, culminating in the City of Philadelphia designating it an “unsafe structure” in 2021. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Christopher R. Rogers, co-coordinator of the Friends of the Henry O. Tanner House, about how that group is fighting to preserve this piece of Black history, and his tips for getting started in the process of protecting a historic site in Philly. Keep up with efforts to preserve the Tanner House here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices.

Hey there! We are excited to share the trailer for a new special limited series from our friends and colleagues at City Cast Denver. If you’re a fan of what we do at City Cast, you’ll want to check it out: You’ve probably heard a story about Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. Like, how she got kicked out of a production of “Beetlejuice” for vaping and groping her date. Or, that time she heckled President Biden during his State of the Union address. Throughout it all, she keeps winning elections and amassing followers, so it’s hard not to watch her meteoric rise and wonder: What does it mean for the future of American Politics? Host Bree Davies and Executive Producer Paul Karolyi have been covering Boebert’s wildest moments on City Cast Denver for years. And with only a month until her make-or-break primary on June 25, they’re talking to former friends and rivals, supporters and detractors, real people throughout Colorado who have been affected by her work in Congress, and hopefully Lauren herself. It’s a new limited series from City Cast, because no matter how you feel about her, you have to admit, it feels like Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose. Subscribe to Lauren Boebert Can’t Lose wherever you get your podcasts. Our first episode drops on May 15.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include how the city handled clearing out an encampment of unhoused people in Kensington and why University of Pennsylvania graduate students voted to unionize. Plus, both Pat’s and Jim’s recently finished renovating their storefronts … but who has the better cheesesteak? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Max Marin, reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza, business reporter at WHYY News. Our Friday News Roundups are powered by great local journalism: Pat's Steaks reopens with chicken cheesesteak on menu Philly police and city workers dismantled a Kensington encampment Wednesday Penn grad workers say ‘we’re part of a national movement’ after union win PECO Imposters and Scams Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices.