City Cast Philly

In our second interview with Philly’s mayoral candidates, host Trenae Nuri speaks with Democrat Cherelle Parker. Hear about Parker's plans if elected, what Philadelphia experiences molded her, and what some of her favorite places in the city are. Read more about Cherelle Parker’s campaign here. And, check out news coverage about the candidate: Who Is Cherelle Parker? Cherelle Parker is proud of her West Oak Lane roots. As mayor, could she save Philly’s ‘middle neighborhoods’? Cherelle Parker on the Sixers arena, the next police commissioner, and the situation in Kensington ICYMI, listen to our earlier interview with GOP candidate David Oh. 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.

On November 7, Philadelphians will select the city’s 100th mayor. This week, we're hearing from both candidates to get to know them better and help you make your choice. On today's episode, host Trenae Nuri chats with Republican candidate David Oh about his record, plans, and his favorite spots in Philly. Visit David Oh’s campaign website here. Read more news coverage about the candidate: David Oh isn’t a typical Republican. He likes it that way. Who Is David Oh? 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.

If you've watched a Philadelphia Eagles game this season, you may have seen quarterback Jalen Hurts surging through a pile of players to advance the ball a yard or two, or even score a touchdown. That critical game play has been dubbed the ‘Brotherly Shove’ or ‘Tush Push.’ This month, the Eagles filed a trademark application to have the exclusive rights to sell shirts and other apparel with the phrase 'Brotherly Shove' on them. Host Trenae Nuri talks with John George, senior reporter at the Philadelphia Business Journal, about the origins of the phrase and why local sports teams and players are trying to monetize their catchphrases. Read more about this story: Philadelphia Eagles file for 'Brotherly Shove' trademark to secure rights for merchandise The Eagles’ unstoppable ‘Brotherly Shove’ is the talk of the NFL. Where’d the name come from? 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 leaders at the University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers University released statements about violent attacks in Israel and Gaza, they got mixed reviews. While some students, faculty, and alumni welcomed their words, others protested or threatened to cancel their donations. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Karin Fischer, senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, about the backlash to these statements and how higher education leaders grapple with communication around divisive issues. Read Karin's full story on how higher education institutions are addressing the conflict 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! Host Trenae Nuri talks with Chris Brennan, political reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer and O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent at The Philadelphia Tribune. They discuss what happened at the only debate between Philadelphia mayoral candidates Cherelle Parker and David Oh, how to cope with the Phillies' loss by getting excited about Eagles season, and Wawa pizza. Our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism: Philly mayoral debate recap: Cherelle Parker and David Oh talk crime, year-round schooling, new 76ers arena Eagles win in Kelly Green Check out our episode on Philly's pizza scene 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.

Did you know candy corn was most likely invented in Philly? And that bubble gum, specifically Dubble Bubble, definitely was? In honor of Halloween, host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly’s food contributor Dave Wez (@feedtingtimetv) unwrap the stories of iconic candies that have roots in our region, and then grade them. If you liked this episode, check out our earlier guide ranking other Philly-made treats, such as Tastykakes, Peanut Chews, and water ice. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

On some Philly blocks, there's a tree in front of every home. On others, there are no trees, only concrete. Philly recently won $12 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand tree cover in the city. This money will go toward the city's new tree plan, a 10-year roadmap for making Philly greener, cooler, and healthier. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Kristine Gonnella, managing director of strategy development at the Public Health Management Corporation, about why Philly made this plan and how more trees are associated with a range of benefits, from lowering rates of asthma to reducing gun violence. Learn more about Philly’s Tree Plan here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

If you don’t have a Halloween costume picked out yet, don’t worry. Host Trenae Nuri, lead producer Laura Benshoff, and producer Abby Fritz are here to help you find the perfect last-minute getup, Philly-style. From Wally, the emotional support alligator, to U.S. Senator John Fetterman, we've got DIY-able ideas you can pull off at your next party! 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.

School closure turmoil is not new in Philly, but what happened recently at the Math, Civics and Sciences Charter School in Callowhill is unusual. Students and parents got a shock when the school’s founder, Veronica Joyner, announced she was retiring and shutting down the school at the end of the academic year. Students walked out in protest, and parents are scrambling to find new placements for their children. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Maddie Hanna, education reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, about what went down and whether one administrator has the ability to shut down a school. Read more about this 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. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Rodrigo Torrejón, criminal justice and law enforcement reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Alan Yu, science reporter at WHYY. They discuss how law enforcement finally cracked a multimillion dollar catalytic converter theft ring, and share updates from the Mütter Museum’s first community feedback meeting. Plus, why one Philly doctor isn’t just saying to eat your veggies, but your animal organ meats, too. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: How investigators cracked a multimillion-dollar catalytic converter theft ring After recent backlash, community members weigh in on Mütter Museum’s future This Philadelphia doctor wants you to consider eating animal organs Nominate an Outstanding Educator to be Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year 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.

Visitors to Philly often go see the Rocky statue, the Liberty Bell and, of course, go eat a cheesesteak. But these destinations can feel a little bit cliched when there is so much more to explore in our city. Back in July, host Trenae Nuri talked with Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, a website devoted to finding the most remarkable places around the world, about what he recommends you should check out 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.

Back in 2019, massive explosions shut down Philadelphia Energy Solutions, what had been the largest and oldest oil refinery on the East Coast. Now, there’s plans to build a business hub for e-commerce and life sciences on this spot, creating as many as 19,000 jobs. But accessing this 1,300 acre plant can be difficult. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Inga Saffron, architecture columnist at The Philadelphia Inquirer, who says the developer and city officials need to connect it to the city if they want the hub to reach its full transformational potential. Read Inga’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. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

From wonton to French onion, ramen to matzoh ball, it’s soup season! Host Trenae Nuri chats with City Cast Philly food contributor Dave Wesolowski (@feedingtimetv) about his top favorite soups you’ve got to order and eat this fall. Plus, we'll be putting the list and a couple of bonus recommendations in our morning newsletter, Hey Philly. Be sure to check it out! 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.

Seven years ago, Philadelphia signed onto a plan called Vision Zero, a commitment to eliminate traffic deaths in the city. But 124 people died on our roads last year, dozens more than the average death toll when we started this plan. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with freelance reporter Ben Seal about which parts of Vision Zero are working, and why the city is still falling far short of its goal. Read Ben’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. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! We hear about how Philly’s downtown is coming back post-pandemic, another labor battle brewing at Temple University, and why ACCT Philly wants your help clearing out their animal shelters. Lead producer Laura Benshoff is joined by Sidney Rochnik, assistant news editor at Temple News, Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza, business reporter at WHYY, and Sarah Barnett, executive director of ACCT Philly. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Philadelphia ranks No. 5 in the nation for downtown foot traffic recovery since 2019 TAUP rallies for new contract at Temple ACCT Philly ‘forced to euthanize' dogs due to lack of space, asks for public's help You can visit ACCT Philly’s website for pet adoption information here. These are the dogs and cats need to be adopted out quickly or they will be euthanized. For more information about scheduling a free mammogram, click 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.

If you follow the news, our city can seem like a bad place to grow up. There are tons of headlines about the toll of gun violence, or how young people have fewer safe places they can go to just be kids. But there are local groups working every day to change that narrative. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Shawna Smith, founder and owner of A Chance At Life Inc., and Prentice Boone, founder of the Junior Barber Academy, about what it takes to run an organization aimed at helping youth in Philadelphia. They also discuss how they create space and mentorship opportunities for young people, from bowling nights to barbering classes. 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.

The Mütter is Philly’s iconic medical history museum. More than 100,000 visitors come every year to see displays like Albert Einstein's brain or an enormous human colon. But these exhibits involve real remains, many obtained years ago through grave robbing or other shady practices. Now, the museum is taking a new look at whether their display is ethical. Reexamining the collection, however, has sparked a backlash from the museum's fans. City Cast Philly’s Laura Benshoff talks with Malcolm Burnley, freelance reporter for Philadelphia Magazine, about the controversy and why many museums are changing their approach to exhibiting human remains right now. Correction: In this episode, our guest says the museum is still reevaluating its online content involving human remains, and putting some of it back online. Executive Director Kate Quinn recently told WHYY that they have finished this process and re-uploaded all of the displays that they plan to. Check out Malcolm's Philadelphia Magazine story on the Mütter Museum here. RSVP to the Mütter Museum's Town Hall on October 17 here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Philly. 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.

Philadelphia International Airport was recently named the worst large airport in North America, based on customer surveys by the data analytics firm J.D. Power. But is it really that bad? In this episode, the City Cast Philly team discusses the pros and cons of flying from PHL, your other local airport options, and our hacks for your next trip out of Philadelphia. 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! Dive into the Nobel Prize-winning research that made the University of Pennsylvania over a billion dollars, what's driving an increase in fatal drug overdose in Philly, and what’s next in the Phillies' postseason run. Lead producer Laura Benshoff speaks with Marco Cerino, staff writer at the Philadelphia Tribune, Abraham Gutman, health reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, and O.J. Spivey, sports and culture writer for The Philadelphia Tribune. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Philadelphia sees surge in Black overdose deaths Scientists’ Nobel-winning vaccine research brought Penn prestige — and a whole lotta money To learn how you can prevent a fatal overdose, sign up for a free virtual overdose prevention and reversal training here. Want some more Philly news? 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 COVID shook up how we all live and work, Philly’s big office towers emptied out. Some workers have returned, but Center City is still hurting for people. Now, an office building at 17th and Market is slated to be turned into nearly 300 new apartments, the biggest office-to-housing conversion since the pandemic. Lead producer Laura Benshoff talks with Jake Blumgart, commercial real estate reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, about what these conversions look like, and whether they're the answer to Philly’s empty-office problem. Read Jakes' reporting here and 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.

The Phillies have once again made it to the playoffs, facing the Miami Marlins in a three-game Wild Card series this week. If you're lucky enough to get tickets to one of these home games, we have your guide to making the most of them. Back in June, host Trenae Nuri spoke with O.J. Spivey, Philadelphia Tribune sports contributor, about how to have a home run experience at Citizens Bank Park. SchwarBurger, anyone? 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.

South Philly’s iconic Melrose Diner was demolished last month to make way for an apartment building. The plan is to reopen a smaller version of Melrose in the same spot. But, other local landmarks haven't been so lucky, and have gone out of business or reduced their hours as dining habits and the city change. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Beatrice Forman about what made Melrose special. And, they share a list of some of the city’s best remaining diners, from early morning breakfast spots to 24-hour dinner counters. Reporting featured in this episode: Here are your favorite memories of the Melrose Diner Melrose Diner to be demolished — but revived in new 94-unit apartment building As 24-hour diners dwindle in Philly, a few fight to remain 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.

The Citizens Police Oversight Commission was created in 2021 to be an independent oversight organization, investigating allegations of police misconduct and trying to build trust between police officers and city residents. Now, an Axios Philadelphia investigation has found that two CPOC commissioners invoiced the group for thousands in expenses that might not be allowed under Philadelphia law. Lead producer Laura Benshoff speaks with Axios Philadelphia reporter Isaac Avilucea about this story, other recent allegations of misconduct lodged against the Commissioners, and how these scandals impact the group’s mission. Read Isaac’s story in Axios Philadelphia 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! We’re talking about a municipal judge’s decision to dismiss murder charges against former Philadelphia Police Officer Mark Dial, less than two months after he shot and killed 27-year-old Eddie Irizarry. We’ll also get into how social media fueled looting at local liquor stores and retail shops this week, as well as why Philly cares so much about whether Taylor Swift is dating Kansas City Chiefs' player Travis Kelce. Lead producer Laura Benshoff is filling in for host Trenae Nuri, and talks with Rodrigo Torrejón, criminal justice reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Asha Prihar, general assignment reporter for Billy Penn. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Judge dismisses all charges against former Police Officer Mark Dial in shooting death of Eddie Irizarry Family, supporters of Eddie Irizarry march after judge dismisses charges against Philly officer who killed him Dozens arrested as groups break into stores, vandalize businesses across Philadelphia, police say All Philly liquor stores are closed today after at least 18 were broken into overnight What Philly is saying about the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce situationship, and what it could mean for the Eagles Find out more about SEPTA’s new contactless payment rollout here. And, enter for a chance to buy tickets to watch the Phillies in the playoffs here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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 the first time in 60 years, SEPTA is overhauling its bus routes. The final plan, which took six years to make, is known as the "Bus Revolution." Some routes are getting faster, some shorter, and others are getting axed altogether. Host Trenae Nuri chats with Thomas Fitzgerald, transportation reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, about how the transit agency made these calls, and what they mean for your commute. And, check out this tool from The Inquirer that shows you how the Bus Revolution will change your transit options. 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.

For years, active shooter drills in Philly schools taught students and teachers to barricade themselves in classrooms. Now, the School District of Philadelphia is implementing a new training known as ALICE - Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate. The idea is to give students and their teachers more ways to respond under pressure. But one of those options, countering, involves trying to distract the shooter. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Eden MacDougall, freelance reporter for Billy Penn and Temple University’s Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting, about what’s driving this change and why the training is controversial. 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.

If you’ve walked around Philadelphia, you may have seen colorful posters that say “Get Squid Facts,” with a phone number on them. This street art project is the brainchild of Sarah McAnulty, a squid biologist and the creator of the science education non-profit, Skype A Scientist. So far, more than 135,000 people have signed up to receive her squid facts. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with McAnulty about what squid have to do with Philly, and why she uses street art to get people stoked about science. Read more about the Squid Facts project here. Or, text "SQUID" to 1-833-SCI-TEXT to get squid info sent straight to your phone! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Philly. 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 see a home renovation or major construction project happening in your neighborhood, you assume that work is done safely. But that’s not always the case in Philly. An ongoing investigation by The Philadelphia Inquirer has found that unsafe construction work can go unchecked, causing damage to homes and neighboring properties, and in the worst cases, building collapses. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Samantha Melamed, investigative reporter with The Philadelphia Inquirer, about why Philly rowhomes are uniquely vulnerable during certain renovations, and how to protect yourself from shoddy work. Start at the beginning of the “Crumbling City” series here. How to report unsafe construction work: For work without a permit, or beyond the scope of the permit, call 311 or visit phila.gov/departments/philly311/ For work before 7 a.m. or after 8 p.m., call 215-685-7580 or email [email protected] For dust and noise complaints, call 215-685-7580 or emails [email protected] For work on a weekend, email [email protected], or call 911. To report property damage by city demolition contractors and others, contact L&I’s Emergency Response Unit at 215-686-2583 or 215-685-3055. Additional resources: Information for Homeowners When Construction Starts Next Door from Community Legal Services Construction Activity Next Door FAQ from the Department of Licenses and Inspections Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Philly. 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! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Oliver Sabo, reporter at The Temple News, Philadelphia Inquirer political reporter Chris Brennan, and City Cast Philly lead producer Laura Benshoff. They discuss the sudden passing of Temple’s acting president, JoAnne A. Epps, and her legacy at the university. And, they cover what to expect from the newly announced mayoral debate, as well as why a buzzy South Philly bagel shop is closing its doors. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: A message to the Temple Community from Mitchell L. Morgan, chair of the Board of Trustees. Remembering JoAnne Epps Temple plans to name interim president in the coming days Mayoral candidates Cherelle Parker and David Oh will debate on KYW Newsradio The race for mayor in Philadelphia inevitably has become a debate about debates Cherelle Parker calls upcoming ‘Latino Town Hall’ a fake as David Oh plans to participate South Philly’s hugely popular Korshak Bagels is closing its doors for good Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly 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.

We’re bringing you the third and final installment of our Fall Getaways series! Host Trenae Nuri talks with Philly wine expert, Arindam Basu, educator at the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, about the best day and weekend trips you can take to visit regional wineries this fall. (Check out our earlier fall getaway guides too! There's one on haunted attractions, and one on fall strolls and snacks.) Wineries recommended in today’s episode: Penns Woods Winery Chaddsford Winery Va La Vineyards Karamoor Estate Vineyard and Winery Vox Vineti Wayvine Winery & Vineyard William Heritage Winery Auburn Road Vineyards Stokelan Estate Winery White Horse Winery Amalthea Cellars Valenzano Winery Arindam runs A&R Wine Services. They host wine dinners, private tastings, wine classes and cellar curation. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

We’re bringing you the second installment of our fall getaways series, where we share our best tips for making the most of this short, sweet season. Looking for a scare and a little roadtrip? Host Trenae Nuri chats with Henry Savage, civics reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, to get the lowdown about the best haunted houses and creepy attractions you can visit outside of Philly. From ghost pirates to haunted hayrides, we've got you covered! 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.

Get in listeners, we’re going leaf-peeping! Today's episode is the first in a three-part series on the best fall getaways in our region. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Maddy Sweitzer-Lammé, a local freelance food writer and tour guide, about places outside of Philly where you can enjoy the fall foliage. Sweitzer-Lammé also shares her recommendations for where you can savor the flavors of the season, from apple cider donuts to stuffed squash, all less than two hours outside of Philly. Read Maddy’s Philadelphia Magazine article here. And, learn more about her business, Tiny Table Tours. Want more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

A recent statewide study found that severe pregnancy complications spiked in Pennsylvania between 2016 and 2022, part of a worsening trend in maternal health outcomes. Now, Philadelphia is trying something new to address health problems during pregnancy. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Dr. Aasta Mehta, OB/GYN and Medical Officer of Women’s Health for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, about the city's first-in-the-nation program to track and analyze complications. And, they share some resources for anyone who needs more support during a pregnancy. Learn more about the programs around maternal health here in Philly: Birth Justice Philly summit happening October 26th Philly Families CAN provides resources for new parents 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 capture of Chester County Prison escapee Danelo Cavalcante, the move to ban supervised injection sites in most of Philly, and the search for Temple University’s new president. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Kenny Cooper, suburban reporter for WHYY News, Aubrey Whelan, health reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Oliver Sabo, reporter at The Temple News. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Danelo Cavalcante, who escaped Chester County Prison, is in custody. Police found him hiding under logs Philadelphia lawmakers vote to prohibit supervised injection sites in most of the city Philly received more than 100,000 ‘invalid’ COVID-19 rapid tests. Here’s what to do if you got one Board of Trustees announces search for Temple’s next president 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.

Back in February, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania ruled that the way the state funds public education is unconstitutional. But what does that actually mean? A recent report from the Philadelphia Inquirer found that a whopping 85% of Pennsylvania school districts don't get enough funding to adequately educate students. This week, lawmakers and experts in education are holding hearings to figure out what needs to change. Host Trenae Nuri unpacks all of this with Inquirer reporters Maddie Hanna and Kasturi Pananjady. Read Hanna and Pananjady's report (and use their interactive funding tool) here. Submit a comment to the PA Basic Education Funding Commission 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.

UPDATE: Pennsylvania State Police told The Philadelphia Inquirer that Danelo Cavalcante was taken into custody after 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning. We'll have a brief update about his arrest later this week. Today, you'll hear how he was able to evade law enforcement for nearly two weeks, hide out in a local botanical garden, and even steal a gun. Host Trenae Nuri and WHYY reporter Kenny Cooper break down some of the strangest twists and turns of this prison break. 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.

From why you should avoid grocery shopping on Sunday, to items that are weirdly cheaper at Whole Foods, we’ve got your insider’s guide to stocking up in Philly. Host Trenae Nuri, lead producer Laura Benshoff, and producer Abby Fritz break down your grocery shopping options in the city, as well as their best store hacks and tips for getting a good deal. Want to know what else Philly's talking about? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

In 2017, spotted lanternflies showed up in Philly. This invasive species is a threat to local agriculture, so Philadelphians got really into smashing the bugs. Spotted lanternfly numbers have since declined in the city, but you still see these red and grey insects around. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Henry Savage, civics reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer, about what happened to the hoards of spotted lanternflies we used to see, and whether we should still bother to squish them. Read Henry’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. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Sean Collins Walsh, City Hall reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and John Barchard, City Cast Philly sports contributor and co-host of the Bell and the Birdmen podcast. They discuss major City Council races and controversial legislation coming this fall, the Eagles' season opener against the New England Patriots on Sunday, and the best places to grab a bite on game day. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Gov. Josh Shapiro is backing third-party progressive Kendra Brooks for Philly City Council Where to find free or low-cost COVID tests in Philadelphia Eagles want "everyone's best punch," and it begins Sunday vs. Patriots at New England Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, the first Black woman to serve in this high-profile position, is leaving her post at the end of the month. Outlaw led the department through the pandemic, massive protests about policing, and a spike in gun violence. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Chris Palmer, criminal justice and law enforcement reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, about Outlaw’s legacy and what’s next for the city. Read Chris’ full story here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. 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.

Philly has a lot of litter, enough that it’s earned the nickname “Filthadelphia.” One way our city deals with trash is with the BigBelly Program, hundreds of solar-powered trash compactors located in major commercial districts. These trashcans cost around $6,000 a piece and send an alert to the Streets Department when they get full. But some residents and business organizations say the bins overflow, break down, and simply attract more litter. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Meir Rinde, investigative reporter at Billy Penn, about these complaints and ways the city could clean up their performance.

Parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York, all drink from the same water supply: the Delaware River. And there's a rocky history of sharing this precious resource. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Kyle Bagenstose, an independent environmental journalist, about why climate change could force a showdown between Philadelphia and New York City over control of the drinking water supply, and how our city is planning for that threat. Read Kyle’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. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! But, a little different this time. We're talking big picture... about the changes we’re most excited to see in our city, the most pressing issues facing residents, and how we can all stay better connected. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Afea Tucker, Philadelphia community engagement reporter for The Trace, Conrad Benner, founder of Streets Dept, a local art blog, and City Cast Philly Arts & Culture contributor Charles Tyson, Jr. This live show was taped at the Indy Hall Clubhouse in Northern Liberties on August 30, 2023. Find out more about our guests’ work here: Afea Tucker: Email [email protected] or visit Up The Block and TheTrace.org Charles Tyson, Jr.: Follow @neverskurred on Instagram and X. Or, listen to the Full Circle Pod Conrad Benner: Follow @streetsdept on Instagram, X, and TikTok. Check out StreetsDept.com Our live event was also powered by a great Philly business: the Indy Hall Clubhouse & Community. Indy Hall is Philly's original community of freelancers, remote workers, and more. It's for those who love their freedom and flexibility, but don't like always feeling alone. Their clubhouse in Northern Liberties, near 2nd and Spring Garden, is Indy Hall's latest home, providing a comfortable and flexible place to work, play, and get to know people doing all kinds of cool things in Philadelphia. They'd love to meet you, so check out their website, and their upcoming event schedule, at indyhall.org. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly 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.

Philadelphia has 40,000 vacant lots, according to city data. Keeping them clean and green can help reduce crime and littering, and even raise property values. So, what can your community do to start repurposing a vacant lot? Host Trenae Nuri and Nate Hommel, director of planning and design for University City District, talked through the steps for turning a neglected space into a community oasis back in April. 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.

Pickleball fever has swept Philly — and the nation. A mix of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, the game is now the fastest growing sport in America, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. Philly alone is home to more than a dozen public and private pickleball courts. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Andrew Freedman, an instructor and ambassador for USA Pickleball, about why this sport is so popular and how you can start playing. For more information about Andrew's pickleball meetups in Seger Park, click 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.

In Philly, there are official parking regulations... and then there are those unwritten rules, legal or otherwise. Host Trenae Nuri, lead producer Laura Benshoff, and producer Abby Fritz break down Philly's lawless parking culture and share their hacks to finding the perfect spot in the city. RSVP for our upcoming live event on 8/30 here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter. 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.

Philly's new school year starts next week, but districts across Pennsylvania have struggled to hire and retain enough teachers to fully staff their classrooms. By county, Philadelphia had the highest teacher attrition rate statewide at 16.4%, according to Penn State’s Center for Education Evaluation and Policy Analysis. Host Trenae Nuri chats with City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris to unpack one of Pennsylvania’s most complicated education issues, and find out how students and teachers are coping with this shortage. RSVP for our upcoming live event on 8/30 here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter. 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 round up! Host Trenae Nuri talks with Paul Schwedelson, commercial real estate reporter at The Philadelphia Business Journal, and Sean Collins Walsh, City Hall reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer. They discuss the plan to redevelop a five-acre area by the North Philadelphia train station, what the city’s mayoral candidates have been up to this summer, and the design group opposing the 76ers' stadium proposal. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Corropolese Tomato Pie chip comes out on top in Herr’s ‘Flavored by Philly’ contest Developers buy long-vacant site next to North Philadelphia train station, plan massive mixed-use project A large Philly-based group of architects and designers just came out against the 76ers’ arena plan Hundreds of Philly politicos partied in North Wildwood to toast the Democratic machine’s resurgence RSVP for our upcoming live event on 8/30 here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly! 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 is fading fast, but there's still time to grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of Philly's many patios or sidewalk cafes. Back in May, host Trenae Nuri talked with Ben Fileccia, lobbyist with the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association, about how city regulations closed down many outdoor dining options that opened during the pandemic, and where you can still eat outside. RSVP for our upcoming live event on 8/30 here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter. 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.

A Philadelphia police officer shot and killed 27-year-old Eddie Irizarry in North Philly last week. A police department spokesperson initially said Irizarry got out of his car and lunged at officers with a knife in his hand. But almost immediately, officials walked back that account, leaving many unanswered questions about the shooting. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Ellie Rushing and Rodrigo Torrejón, criminal justice reporters at The Philadelphia Inquirer, about what we know so far and how Irizarry's family and community are responding to his death. RSVP for our upcoming live event on 8/30 here! Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter. 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.