City Cast Philly

Even though summer is winding down, the food and drink options are still plentiful! But sometimes you need restaurant recommendations for specific occasions, like where to get takeout for an outdoor movie or the best spot to celebrate after a Phillies game. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior editor Alison Kessler and senior staff writer Candis McLean from The Infatuation Philly to talk through some end of summer scenarios and the best food and drinks to pair with them. Check out The Infatuation Philly’s 2024 summer food guide 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! We’re talking about the 2024 ABC News presidential debate coming to the National Constitution Center, potential challengers for district attorney, and how more houses of worship are aiding in preventing bike deaths in the city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer, and Larry Platt, co-founder of The Philadelphia Citizen. Plus, Trenae gives an update on her Philly cheesesteak quest, sponsored by the Western wear company Tecovas. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: National Constitution Center to Host 2024 ABC News Presidential Debate A half-dozen people are thinking about running against Larry Krasner for Philly DA, including a judge Bicycle safety advocates to hold rally at Philadelphia City Hall in wake of CHOP doctor's death Society Hill Synagogue is the latest to give up bike lane parking permits Will tickets be available to the presidential debate at the National Constitution Center? 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: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about the city’s new mobile recruitment initiative, issues facing the School District of Philadelphia this upcoming academic year, and some good news from around the city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Ernest Owens, editor at Eater Philly and political writer-at-large at PhillyMag, and Carly Sitrin, Philadelphia Bureau Chief at Chalkbeat. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Auntie Anne’s Launches Knead – An Exclusive Fragrance Inspired by the Pretzel Brand’s Signature Aroma Philly on the Move: New Hiring Bus Brings Job Opportunities to Your Neighborhood! Philadelphia "Hiring Bus" looks to drive down vacancy rate in municipal jobs Philadelphia’s year-round school initiative is more of the same — mostly Alliance to bring back Philadelphia school libraries gets $150,000 federal grant Students will get more power in Philadelphia’s revamped school admissions process Air conditioning units added to several Philly schools before the start of the new academic year Learn more about The Philly Download. Check out these financial aid resources available for new and returning college students. 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.

In Pennsylvania, it’s easier to buy an assault rifle than a handgun thanks to a loophole in our state law – one that’s come under increased scrutiny since the assassination attempt at the Trump rally in Butler last month. Venuri Siriwardane, health reporter for PublicSource, joins City Cast Pittsburgh executive producer Mallory Falk to talk about Pennsylvania’s gun laws and loopholes, plus the push to create more statewide gun safety measures. You can read Venuri’s reporting on state gun laws in PublicSource. 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.

When you think of the cities with the best hot dogs, do you think of Philly? Local restaurants are getting more creative with hot dogs, but how successful are they, really, at convincing people to swap out their hoagies, cheesesteaks, and pretzels for a hot dog? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Jenn Ladd, food writer at The Philadelphia Inquirer, about Philly's hot dog scene, what makes an essential hot dog, and how some restaurants are even making their own from scratch. Read more about Philly’s hot dog scene here. Plus, check out this list of places to grab hot dogs. 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! We’re talking about the latest twist in the shooting death of Eddie Irizarry, and SEPTA’s crackdown on riders who don’t pay up. Plus, we’ve got a Philly news quiz that you can play along with. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Isaac Avilucea, reporter at Axios Philadelphia, and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Former Philly officer Mark Dial's first-degree murder charge dropped SEPTA is treating fare evasion as a criminal offense for the first time in five years SEPTA is upping penalties for smoking, urinating, drunkenness and other bad behavior on transit Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Sixers invited to move to Wilmington Mayor Parker supported Josh Shapiro for VP. Now she’s urging Democrats to get behind Walz ‘Philly Special’ QB Nick Foles is officially retiring as an Eagle 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.

For several months now, the city’s been implementing the Kensington Community Revival Plan — a multiple-phased approach to address the decades-long open air drug market in the neighborhood, as well as quality-of-life issues such as homelessness, addiction, and violence. But there’s been mixed reviews on how effective it’s been. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Sammy Caiola, special projects reporter at Kensington Voice, and Jill Bauer-Reese, editor at Kensington Voice, to talk about this plan and the state of things in Kensington. 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! We’re talking about the aftermath of the presidential campaigns that came through Philly this week and what’s next for Governor Josh Shapiro. Plus, we talk about the recently announced price hikes on property tax and Philadelphia Parking Authority residential parking permits. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Mike D’Onofrio, reporter at Axios Philadelphia, and Christopher Wink, publisher and CEO at Technical.ly. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: What if the Olympics were in Philly? Here are some local events we could add. Philadelphia in the national spotlight with Harris, Vance visits Walz disses Trump, mulls Vance debate in first appearance with Harris Philadelphia property taxes are going up. Here's where homeowners can find relief. Philly homeowners will see property tax bills increase $330 on average as city reassesses properties Philadelphia property reassessment will boost schools revenue by $115 million over 5 years Price of residential parking permits in Philadelphia to more than double in September Resources: Office of Property Assessment City of Philadelphia’s Property Tool Philacan 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.

Sometimes, you just need to get out of the city and spend time in a different one, or in nature. So, let’s go on a day trip through Pennsylvania! Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor, about some of her recent adventures throughout the state, so you can plan one for this weekend. Check out Asha’s day trip guides for more things to do in Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Doylestown! 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.

There’s wild berries, leafy greens and small plants growing all over Philly that are actually edible. We’re revisiting an episode where host Trenae Nuri and producer Abby Fritz traveled to Lemon Hill and explored this corner of Fairmount Park with Lynn Landes, the creator of Wild Foodies of Philly. They learn about the vast variety of useful plants found in our city and share tips on how you can start foraging. You can learn more about Wild Foodies of Philly, and the group’s meetups, 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! Today, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to announce her running mate before her campaign rally in Philly, while JD Vance, Republican nominee for vice president, will be in South Philadelphia at the 2300 Arena. Host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly producer Abby Fritz also talk about the lengths a local man went to to find a date, then play a Philly news quiz. Plus, Trenae gives an update on her Philly cheesesteak quest, sponsored by the Western wear company Tecovas. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Presidential campaign schedules for Tuesday include Philly stops for both Harris and Vance Republican VP nominee JD Vance is coming to South Philly on Tuesday Meet the West Philly man who rented a billboard to find a date Philadelphia police introducing new tactics to thwart illegal car meet-ups Philadelphia police announce latest targeted traffic enforcement initiative 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 August 6th episode: Tecovas Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Philadelphia City Council is out for summer recess, but for our elected officials, the work is ongoing. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Councilmember-at-large Isaiah Thomas to talk about his work with young people, basketball, voting, and what we all could be doing right now to make Philly just a little bit better. 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! We’re talking about the presidential candidates campaigning in Pennsylvania and the partial collapse of Graffiti Pier earlier this week. Plus, a rise in trash complaints and some initiatives helping Philadelphians beat these hot summers. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by independent environmental journalist Kyle Bagenstose and standup comedian Nicole Phoenix, and they give their recommendations for events happening this month in the city. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Portion of Graffiti Pier collapses into Delaware River in Philadelphia Trump questions Kamala Harris' racial identity at NABJ ahead of Pa. rally; Harris will campaign in Philly with her VP pick next week Residents welcome Philly’s citywide cleanup, but complaint data show trash quickly returns 1,000+ Philadelphians won’t get cooling help this summer as LIHEAP funds run out For our city to beat the heat, it’s going to take a whole lot of green We also mentioned our guide to events all around Philly this month and our conversation with Glenn “Hurricane” Schwartz last month on the extreme heat we’ve been experiencing. Plus, the Philadelphia School District’s Back-to-School Bus Tour. 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 August 2nd episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. 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. Can you believe summer’s nearly halfway over? Let’s make the most of it! In this episode, you’ll hear our best tips for enjoying August in Philly, from a bookstore crawl to several cultural, film, and food festivals that you don’t want to miss. And if you love Asha’s tip on how to get a free pass to the Academy of Natural Sciences thanks to their new partnership with the Free Library, check out our episode on all the things you can get with your library card. For even more tips on how to make the most of August in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Incogni. 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 festival season, which means there are plenty of food trucks in Philly pulling up to serve up some grub — not to mention the tried-and-true staples all around the city. Host Trenae Nuri talks with City Cast Philly food contributor Dave Wez (@feedingtimetv) about our favorites. Food trucks mentioned in this episode: Humpty's Dumplings Corneey’s The Crepe Truck Burrito Feliz Korea Taqueria Gigi and Big R Pot of Essence Mom-Mom’s Pierogies Zoagies Farina Pasta and Noodle Chickie’s and Pete’s Wokworks House of Cupcakes Saudia Shuler’s Country Cookin 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 31st episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup. We’re talking about the story behind a mysterious message in a bottle that washed up in Ocean City, New Jersey, and a local ‘Worse Roommate Ever’ story is getting turned into a movie. Plus, we have a Philly news quiz that you can play along with. 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: Story of Philly squatter from Netflix's 'Worst Roommate Ever' to be made into movie Worst Roommate Ever ‘Bridesmaids’ Director Paul Feig to Helm Bad Roommate Thriller for Blumhouse Did the world’s oldest message in a bottle just wash up on a beach in Ocean City? Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): Gov. Josh Shapiro speaking at rally for Kamala Harris with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer SEPTA to test solar-powered screens at bus stops that would give riders real-time info Swann Memorial Fountain turns 100 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 30th episode: Incogni - Use code CityCast for 55% off the annual plan. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Philly has amazing nightlife — but, it could be even better. For example, the city could use more late-night food spots and transit options. Plus, businesses that operate at night have unique challenges and need specific kinds of support to thrive. That’s why the Philadelphia Department of Commerce created a new job in 2022: the Night Time Economy Director, aka the city’s “Night Mayor.” We’re revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and Night Mayor Raheem Manning about the role and the needs of the businesses and people who keep our city going from sundown to sunrise. Read the City’s first-year progress report on Philly’s night time economy here. Businesses can contact the Department of Commerce’s Office of Business Services by calling 215-683-2100 or emailing [email protected]. Support is available in languages including Chinese, Khmer, Spanish, and Vietnamese. 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 29th 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 the toll increase on 4 Delaware River bridges, details on the mass shooting in Carroll Park along with the broad state of gun violence in Philly, and New Jersey’s efforts to get the Sixers to move out of the city. Plus, local athletes to root for in the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent for The Philadelphia Tribune, and Mensah Dean, staff writer at The Trace — a nonprofit newsroom focused on gun violence. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Tolls on 4 bridges over Delaware River set to increase to $6 Wells Fargo planning to drop name from South Philadelphia sports arena New Jersey officials vying for Philadelphia 76ers to open new arena in Garden State Victim of West Philly mass shooting will be charged with murder Police identify another suspect wanted for mass shooting that left 3 dead in West Philadelphia Philadelphia police name 16-year-old who was shot execution-style in Oxford Circle Here are the Black athletes from the Delaware Valley in this year’s Olympics All the ways to watch the 2024 Paris Olympics: TV and stream info, schedule 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 26th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The 2024 presidential election cycle took a turn when President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he wasn’t running for reelection and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate. Now, all eyes are on Harris as the presumed nominee, and who she might choose as her running mate. One of the names that’s been floated as a possible VP pick is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Stephen Caruso, state Capitol reporter for Spotlight PA, and Julia Terruso, political reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, about Shapiro’s accomplishments and controversies, and how likely it is that he’ll join Harris on the Democratic ticket. 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 25th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The annual Herr’s: Flavored by Philly Contest is back! This is when the Pennsylvania snack company introduces limited edition flavors inspired by the Philly region. This year’s flavors are Talluto's Cheese Ravioli and Marinara, Mom Mom’s Potato Pierogi, and Romano’s Special Hot Stromboli. So who got the best flavor this year? City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, and Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar, do a taste test. Plus, they vote for their favorites! 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 24th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s another midweek news roundup. We’re talking about bike advocates' demands for making Philly safer for cyclists, what’s causing some roads to close around the Wissahickon Valley Park, and the new alcoholic beverage coming to PA grocery stores. Host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, and Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar, test their knowledge on the region’s news with a quiz. Plus, how Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race could impact the state. Our news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro is a top contender for vice president. What would he bring to the ticket? NJ distillery unveils pork roll, egg and cheese on everything bagel vodka Read more about our news quiz (spoilers ahead): HBO's 'Task' is preparing to film in Wissahickon Valley Park next week Bicycle Coalition Petition Announcement Opinion: Houses of worship shouldn’t get to park in bike lanes on weekends Canned cocktails will soon be sold in Pennsylvania grocery stores Pennsylvania Governor signs bill allowing sale of canned cocktails in grocery stores 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 at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Tecovas 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.

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.