City Cast Philly

For today's Friday News Roundup, we're looking at how City Hall found $50 million to avoid teacher layoffs, we're discussing the aftermath of what one city councilmember described as police “brutality” in the gayborhood after Pride celebrations, and we're analyzing the real political meaning behind District Attorney Larry Krasner's unusual letter delivery to Mayor Cherelle Parker. And for our City Cast Philly Neighbors, in our bonus segment host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz tell you about four brand new public outdoor spaces in the city that you're going to want to check out this summer.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly schools will not cut 340 classroom jobs amid budget cuts, Mayor Parker says Philly School District will not make 340 classroom job cuts after all, mayor announces Philly DA Larry Krasner requests more money for funding from mayor and more meetings Market Street in Old City gets a $16 million glow-up in time for America 250 New public space that floats on the Schuylkill River arrives at Bartram's Gardens SEPTA reopens long-shuttered South Broad Concourse in Center City Philadelphia City officials respond to backlash against heavy police involvement at Philly Pride Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Four Seasons Philadelphia ArtPhilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Odunde, the largest African American street festival in the nation, returns to Philly on Sunday, June 14, with hundreds of thousands expected to gather on 16 blocks. What started out as a simple idea to celebrate African and Caribbean culture has become a 51-year-old demonstration of the power of community. There will be arts, crafts, and food vendors, as well as dance performances and R&B music headliner Bell Biv DeVoe. In this conversation from just before the 50th anniversary of the event, Odunde CEO Oshunbumi Fernandez-West tells host Trenae Nuri about the roots of this extraordinary event. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Four Seasons Philadelphia

Gov. Josh Shapiro wants data centers in Pennsylvania, and he's got a plan to incentivize developers to build. But does the governor's proposal have a shot at making it through our divided legislature? Kate Huangpu, government reporter for Spotlight PA, joins host Trenae Nuri to talk about the appetite for data centers among lawmakers, business groups, and the labor force, and how the Keystone State could benefit from this booming industry.  Read Kate's full report on G.R.I.D. for Spotlight PA here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Four Seasons Philadelphia

What's one thing we would ban from Center City? Why is the police headquarters costing the city so much money to buy? And will Bob Brady be dethroned as chairman of the Philadelphia Democrats? That – plus what we're looking for in World Cup merch – on the Tuesday News Roundup with journalist Claudia Vargas, City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, and our senior producer Abby Fritz.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Four Seasons Philadelphia ArtPhilly The Penn Museum

The FIFA World Cup is here! This weekend marks the first of the six matches that Philly is hosting for the most-watched sporting event in the world. We're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and Meg Kane, host city executive and CEO for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, to talk about the rise of soccer in Philly and why hosting the World Cup is a game-changer.  This episode originally aired Dec. 9, 2025.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Four Seasons Philadelphia

Philadelphia recycles some of its water, but not as much as Las Vegas, where the water there stays in the city. How else could a desert city possibly have enough water for its year-round tourists, a metro area population of over 2 million, and all those pools? The process just might be grosser than you think. With innovative recycling, strict lawn rules, and infrastructure to monitor it all, Vegas has become a global leader in water reuse. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Las Vegas podcast host Jesse Merrick to learn how the city makes do with what it has and how its practices could save other cities' water supplies. Plus, are any Las Vegans actually going to the casinos? Mentioned on the show: "Reality Check - There are Big Fines If You Don't Change Your Watering Clock" (Southern Nevada Water Authority) "Federal Regulators Cut Lake Mead Water. Can Vegas Handle It?" (City Cast Las Vegas) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Matt Katz and Abby Fritz are looking back at the week that was on today's Friday News Roundup. Mayor Parker's plan to raise taxes on Amazon, Airbnb, and Uber appears to have failed. Why? The plan to protect bike lanes on Spruce and Pine Streets in Center City is back in court. The Pride march and festival this weekend won't be centered in the gayborhood, and people aren't happy about that. Plus in our members-only City Cast Philly Neighbors segment, we give you the scoop on jury duty in the city.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly City Council rejected Mayor Parker's proposed taxes on Uber and Airbnb while advancing a $7.1 billion city budget Mayor Parker's proposals to tax tech companies falter as city budget deadline looms With Philly budget vote looming, Airbnb launches ad campaign against proposed tax hike on short-term rentals City asks court to let it strengthen bike lanes on Pine and Spruce Streets Meredith Elementary in South Philadelphia amends Pride celebration after conservative backlash Philly Pride365 March and Festival Gayborhood bars brace for fallout from Philly Pride move Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

When the TV cameras go live, interviews go viral. And that's how we end up meeting some of the most interesting Philadelphians. Local Philadelphia TV news has captured some of our city's most viral moments, turning ordinary people into celebrities overnight. What makes these interviews so memorable? And is there anything unsettling about the attention? Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz chat about some of Philly's most memorable TV news interviews.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly

Philadelphia voted to create the Citizens Police Oversight Commission in the wake of high-profile police killings in 2020. But the commission's power has been met with resistance from the police union, which has blocked outside investigations into city officers. Yet the executive director of the commission, Tonya McClary, tells host Trenae Nuri that the commission still plays an important role in reviewing accusations of police abuse. Senior producer Abby Fritz dug into what oversight really looks like in the city and what will be needed to strengthen it.  If you enjoyed this interview with Giavana Pruiti, Director of Promotions and Activations for Center City District, and Skylar Carey, Marketing Specialist with Arah Agency, learn more here. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly

In the next month, the city is expected to pass a budget, host major sporting events, kick off semiquincentennial commemorations, and eventually clean up from all the parties. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior producer Abby Fritz and Circa Systems co-founder and CEO Nic Esposito to talk through the proposed taxes and fiscal decisions driving discourse around how Philly will make and spend money. This past weekend, The Roots Picnic and Porch Fest kicked off festival season, and we created your next outdoor festival checklist. Plus, the city has a unique chance to rethink how our trash is disposed of.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

Philadelphia is the best city to be in this summer. From FIFA Fan Fest to the Block Party Bonanza and select bars staying open until 4 a.m, there's so much to do. We also recommend annual celebrations like the Pride Festival, the Odunde Festival, and the Chinese Lantern Festival. In this episode, you'll hear our best tips for enjoying Philly, plus lots of activity recommendations you won't find elsewhere. And if you're hungry for more food content, don't miss Siani's list of the city's newest restaurants. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Philly, check out our newsletter. City Cast Philly made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Taskrabbit, Fitler Club, and Brooklyn Bowl Philly. We're powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show and other perks. Find out more at membership.citycast.fm.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Where would Philadelphia be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago's libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's the Friday New Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz are discussing how Mayor Cherelle Parker has rebranded the Wawa Welcome to America Concert. Also, hotel and Airbnb prices could be going up due to proposed tax bikes. The city and state are teaming up to combat traffic near the stadiums in South Philly. And a special segment for City Cast Philly Neighbors about the rooftop bars with the best views and booze.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Parker stamps "One Philly" slogan onto Fourth of July concert  Philly will use a record budget surplus to face funding uncertainties, Mayor Parker says Exclusive: Uber turns up pressure campaign against Parker's rideshare tax Mayor Parker says she'll reduce her hotel tax plan and propose a 6% hike on Airbnb instead Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ArtPhilly Free Library of Philadelphia

As the United States turns 250, Philadelphia, the city where modern democracy was born, is becoming the center of a global conversation about where it goes next. In this sponsored bonus episode, Trenae talks with Laura Smythe, a Philadelphia-based journalist and TED Democracy speaker, and Gabbi Townsend, a content creator partnering with Visit Philadelphia, about “TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures.” Happening at the Kimmel Center on June 13th, the event brings together thinkers from around the world for 13 full-length TED Talks and six Philadelphia Flash Talks on the future of democracy. Laura and Gabbi walk through how the event came to be, what attendees can expect throughout the day, and why both of them wanted to be part of it. They also explain how a free nationwide library livestream is bringing the event to communities across the country, and what they hope people think about long after they leave the Kimmel Center. Thank you for listening to this special bonus Sponsored Episode by Visit Philadelphia. Use promo code CITYCASTPHILLY for 15% off tickets at visitphilly.com/ted2026. Can't make it in person? Find a free library livestream near you at visitphilly.com/TEDlive.

America is turning 250, and Philadelphia is going to be a playground for visitors to learn about the history of the country and the city that started it all. But what about us, the locals who will be here whether or not we care about the semiquincentennial? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with the City of Philadelphia 2026 Director Michael Newmuis to put you onto all of the money, programs, initiatives, and events meant to benefit Philadelphians during the summer's celebrations.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia

The FIFA World Cup and Fan Festival are just weeks away. Murals are going up, bars are racing to get extended hours permits, and graffiti is being covered 一 but is it enough? Some argue Philly is the most prepared host city and is set to make some money off of these events. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk through all the prep that could lead to a success story for the city as we host soccer's biggest competition.   Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Taskrabbit 

The days are getting longer, and summer hangouts are on the horizon. But it can be hard to come up with meetup spots that aren't the same few bars – and if you are avoiding alcohol, it's even harder. Whether you're sober, taking an alcohol break, or just want to try something new, we're revisiting our guide to cool spots, activities, hobbies, and events that don't involve drinking. The conversation features host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón. This episode originally aired on Jan. 13, 2026.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ArtPhilly Free Library of Philadelphia

It's the Friday News Roundup! Executive producer Matt Katz and senior producer Abby Fritz dish on all the drama with local Democratic politicians in Philly – including an argument over mac-and-cheese and an effort to dethrone Bob Brady, chairman of the city Democratic party. In other news, a dentist's license was suspended for unsafe practices and flooding led a South Philly hospital to be evacuated. And for the City Cast Philly Neighbors segment, what the stats say about why you should 一 or shouldn't 一 go down the Shore for Memorial Day weekend.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly progressives taking a victory lap after Rabb win; supporters credit old-school grassroots organizing Sharif Street and Chris Rabb are asking Philly voters to send them to Washington. As state lawmakers, they've had very different styles. Chairman Bob Brady, it is time to step aside Philly DA Larry Krasner got kicked out of election day lunch after clashing with union leader Ryan Boyer Smiles at Rittenhouse Square dental patients should get tested for HIV, hepatitis, health department says Power restored after issues force evacuation at Jefferson Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia Flash flood waters were pouring into the SEPTA station in Jenkintown on Wednesday night The worst times to travel from Philly for Memorial Day weekend Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Philadelphia

City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, compete head-to-head and debate which city is the best for a weekend trip this summer. From hot tub boats (exactly what they sound like) to epic outdoor summer festivals, our hosts are bringing the best of what their city has to offer this season. Can Trenae beat out her competitors from Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities? ⁠Our newsletter⁠ has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠ Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Visit Philadelphia

Results are in! The City Cast Philly team stayed up late to get the results of last night's Democratic primary election for the Third Congressional District. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss how the most progressive candidate, State Rep. Chris Rabb, won the Democratic nomination and what this surprising victory says about Philly Democrats (and democratic socialists). Plus, they break down the next big campaign between Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro and his challenger, Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Philadelphia

Ona Judge was one of nine enslaved Black people forced to work and live at President George Washington's Philadelphia home before her escape to freedom in 1796. The current president has tried to suppress her story and the story of other enslaved people who were held in Philadelphia. Now, there's an extraordinary and permanent response: This Thursday is the first-ever annual Ona Judge Day in the city. Host Trenae Nuri talks through this history with  Ronnie Polaneczky, senior editor at Philadelphia Magazine, and Carl Singley, retired lawyer and co-founder of the Ona Judge Coalition.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Philadelphia

Philly's food and beverage landscape is constantly expanding. New businesses are popping up all the time, and many originate from other places across the country – particularly New York City. In the past few years, restaurants have expanded out of Texas, New York, California, and many other states. Host Trenae Nuri is talking with senior producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón about what these restaurants bring to Philly, and how some just don't get Philadelphians.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries 

Would Philadelphia be safer if there were more automated traffic cameras? In 2025, Washington, DC, brought in nearly $270 million from more than 500 automated traffic enforcement cameras — including a single camera that issued $9 million in tickets. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host Bridget Todd about how these cameras work, the congressional scrutiny they've been getting, and whether they make DC safer. Plus, is DC becoming the new rave capital?  Mentioned on the show: "The deadliest road in America" (Vox) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk through whether City Council has the power to regulate driverless vehicles. Also, there are new $10 bus rides going to over 50 northeastern cities and a new hotel cocktail program is inspired by the country's 250th anniversary. Plus, City Cast Philly Neighbors can play along in the members-only segment as Trenae's knowledge on the upcoming primary election is tested.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Concerns over driverless cars in Philadelphia Philadelphia officials question city's lack of power over driverless cars City Council committee hearing on Waymo OurBus to offer $10 bus fares out of Philadelphia for nearly three weeks Philly unveils parking crackdown near World Cup Fan Festival  Lemon Hill Temporary Residential Parking Permits John Fetterman casts deciding vote against limiting Trump's war in Iran Spirit of 76 Cocktails  The boozy business of the American Revolution went down in Philly bars So Much Madeira What To Know Before You Head to the Polls on May 19 Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia

It's that time of year when Philadelphians are making their summer plans. And that means it's time to book those weeks and weekends down the shore. But with several dozen towns along the New Jersey coastline, where are we supposed to go? Which boardwalk is the best? Where do we take the kids? Where do we party? That's why we're listening back to our conversation with journalist and Jersey Shore expert Jen Miller about some of her hacks for navigating the beaches, boardwalks, and partying along the coastline.  This episode originally aired April 29, 2025.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries 

The 2026 Pennsylvania primary is next week, on May 19. Do you know what's on your ballot? Host Trenae Nuri runs through what you're voting on with City Cast Philly politics contributor Lauren Vidas. They explain everything from the hot congressional race to the obscure race with dozens of candidates that you probably didn't know anything about. Plus, there are two intriguing ballot questions.  For more information on the 3rd Congressional District contest, listen back to this deep dive. If you want a written voter guide to take with you to the voting booth, check out today's newsletter.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

Chocolate bars like Polka Dot Mushroom Magic Blend and tablets like Ms. Molli Cule's have a few things in common: You can get these over the counter in local smoke shops, and both are psychedelics – unregulated drugs sold over-the-counter in our neighborhoods. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with two investigative reporters for the Philadelphia Inquirer, Max Marin and Ryan Briggs, about why psychedelics can stay on shop shelves and what's actually in them. Read Max and Ryan's full report for the Inquirer here. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

After over 60 years, the PGA Championship ー basically the Super Bowl of golf ー is back in the Philly area. The professional men's championship starts today and runs through May 17 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square. Philly's history with the sport runs deep, and the region continues to expand with opportunities to play. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Maya Satya Reddy, a former professional golfer and founder of both the Queer Asian Social Club and Open Fairways, about exploring golf in the region and how it can become more inclusive.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

It's a big year for Philly! This summer, the city is anticipating a record-breaking number of tourists coming to town for World Cup games and semiquincentennial events, so Philadelphia is allowing its bars to stay open until 4 a.m. during most of June and July. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri about the city's nightlife, and the pros and cons of this extended hours experiment. Plus, how to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary without feeling like you're serving a Trump narrative. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's the Friday news roundup. Catch up on the controversial 'no' vote that State Representative Chris Rabb, a 3rd Congressional District hopeful, got heat for this week. Also, Mayor Cherelle Parker signed six of seven bills that that will restrict immigration enforcement in Philly starting in July. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz talk through all of this, plus how Knicks fans are getting petty over the Eastern Conference Semi-finals. At the end of the episode, City Cast Philly Neighbors get exclusive low-cost and free last-minute Mother's Day recommendations.  Come say hi to the team this weekend at the Art Star Craft Bazaar on Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Parker signs sweeping restrictions on immigration enforcement, cementing Philly's sanctuary policies into law Pa. House committee passes suite of six bills to combat child sex trafficking Chris Rabb takes controversial vote against sex trafficking legislation two weeks before congressional election House Judiciary committee criticizes Philly law enforcement over sanctuary policies, demands immigration records and correspondence Mayor Parker signs sweeping restrictions on immigration enforcement, cementing Philly's sanctuary policies into law Nick Nurse rejoins Sixers after brother's funeral, says Steve Nurse would want him to coach Defiant NYers to take Philly by storm despite Sixers' attempt to keep Knicks fans out NY eateries, bars ban ‘Philly' cheesesteaks from menu as Knicks-Sixers fight gets greasy Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Art Star

Philly is giving its neighborhood parks some TLC this weekend with the start of Love Your Park Week. Running from May 9 through 17, this annual celebration brings volunteers together to clean up some of the 10,000 acres of parkland across the city. However, some people aren't giving our parks the flowers they deserve. So we're revisiting a conversation with the team, host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón, where we read one-star reviews of the city's green spaces. This episode originally aired on Aug. 19, 2025. Parks we mentioned in the episode:  Washington Square Park  Matthias Baldwin Park Pastorius Park John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge FDR Park  The Woodlands Fairmount Park  Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Art Star

A heated Philadelphia School Board meeting ended in a 6-3 vote, which approved a $3 billion facilities plan that would close 17 schools and renovate 169 more. Not before city council members disrupted the meeting with chants and shouting, to protest the plan. Although this didn't stop its initial passing, city leaders are pushing back. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas was present at the board meeting and has been outspoken about some of the schools on the closure list. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with the councilmember, who's also the chair of the Education Committee, about his opposition and what would need to change in the facilities master plan to get his support.  Listen back to Monday's episode with School Board President Reginald Streater to hear why he voted 'yes' on this plan. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Art Star

It seems like a crack in the sidewalk or broken curb should be an easy fix. However, in Philly these issues get complicated because it isn't the city that's responsible, it's property owners. That's why our sidewalks look the way they do. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Malcom Burnley, a staff writer at the Philadelphia Citizen, who's looked to cities across the country for answers on how to fix our sidewalks ASAP. Read Malcolm's story here.   Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Art Star

Despite an extraordinary and emotional confrontation with City Council last week, the Philadelphia School Board voted 6-3 to approve a $3 billion facilities plan that would close 17 schools and renovate 169 more. Parents, teachers, and students still have many questions. So joining host Trenae Nuri to talk about the controversial facilities plan, and the justification behind it, is School Board President Reginald Streater.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Taskrabbit Art Star

It's the Friday news roundup. We're talking about this week's congressional debate – and which candidate was a no-show. Plus, the strange origin of some tables at Philly restaurants, and could Passyunk Avenue ever be totally car-free? Host Trenae and executive producer Matt Katz also dish for a bonus segment only for our City Cast Philly Neighbors about where to get tacos and free margaritas.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Sen. Street and Rep. Rabb spar over experience and policy in WHYY 3rd Congressional District debate after Dr. Stanford drops out of event 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary debate Congressional hopeful Ala Stanford's Black Doctors Consortium was fueled by $13 million in public funding Philadelphia's Please Touch Museum has a new $4.2M marble floor. The old marble is making a comeback in Center City restaurants Please Touch Museum to build new permanent exhibit Passyunk should be car free—prove me wrong Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

May kicks off festival season in the city. From music to food, we couldn't be more excited to check out the festivals Philly is offering this month. We also recommend exploring the exhibit about monuments and Philly's boxing legacy at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a restaurant serving falafel hoagies, and an ACME where you can win prizes for singing. For the Broad Street Run on May 3, our team and our City Cast Philly Neighbors will be stationed at a water station at Broad and Spruce Streets, near the Kimmel Center, cheering on runners and keeping them hydrated. The team will also have a table at the Art Star Craft Bazaar on Mother's Day weekend, May 9 and May 10, at Cherry Street Pier. And read up on local civics with Siani's election guides for the May 19 primary.  For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Philly, check out our newsletter. We're powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show and other perks. Find out more at membership.citycast.fm.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

The school district is broke, and the mayor has a controversial plan to solve the problem. Meanwhile the Center City bike lane saga continues. And what's going to happen with the anti-ICE bills on the mayor's desk? Our political contributor Lauren Vidas is here with Trenae Nuri to give us a round-up of what's going on in City Hall.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

Nightlife seems to be getting earlier in Philly, and that's given rise to a new trend – aperitivo hour. Think small plates, small bites, and low-ABV cocktails. Host Trenae Nuri talks with  City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda about how Philadelphians are maximizing aperitivo hour this spring – and where you should be going to have the ultimate aperitivo experience.   Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

A congressman representing about half of our city is retiring, so Philly is getting the rare chance to fill an open seat with a new congressional representative. In recent weeks the campaigning in Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District has gotten heated, and the issue that keeps coming up again and again is Gaza, Israel, and the use of the word “genocide.” Today on City Cast Philly, Anna Orso, political reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, explains how a war halfway around the world came to dominate the May 19th Democratic primary in Philly.  If you enjoyed the interview with Amy Zhang, chief financial officer of TaskRabbit, ⁠learn more here.⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 27th episode: ⁠Heiler Painting⁠ ⁠Free Library of Philadelphia Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Task Rabbit Free Library of Philadelphia  Heiler Painting

Are DIY urban projects the key to improving the infrastructure in cities like Philly? The grassroots group To Nashville, With Love has built and installed 60 benches at bus stops around Nashville, all without government approval. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Nashville podcast host Marie Cecile Anderson about what this guerrilla campaign is doing, why it's gotten pushback from the city, and where Nashville's Tactical Urbanism program fits into all this. Plus, the unique challenges of Nashville tourism.  Mentioned on the show: "Who Put Benches at Nashville Bus Stops — and Why Did the City Remove Them?" (City Cast Nashville) "Guerrilla Public Service Redux" (99% Invisible) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's the Friday news roundup! We're talking about the big fight over funding the School District of Philadelphia, given the $300 million structural deficit and expected teacher cuts. We'll break down Mayor Parker's push for the $1 tax on ride-share. Also: Are rats returning to Mayfair? And in today's show City Cast Philly Neighbors get an extra segment on everything you need to know about jumping on the playoff bandwagon for the Sixers and the Flyers. All of this and more with host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and newsletter editor Siani Colon.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Parker renews plea for rideshare tax to skeptical council Philly School District officials say they won't need to cut 340 classroom jobs if Mayor Parker's Uber tax passes City Council clashes with superintendent over school closure plan, Uber tax Philly Council advances bills restricting ICE in the city as Mayor Parker signals she won't stand in the way ‘Protect us': Activists demand end to ICE arrests outside Philly courts Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Rocky Balboa never actually lived in Philly (since he is the fictional character portrayed by actor Sylvester Stallone). But if you take a look around the city, he definitely has a home here. Rocky is on posters, shirts, and mugs. He's even quoted in a mayonnaise billboard along the highway. The pinnacle of the character's influence can be seen in the long lines at the Philadelphia Museum of Art leading up to a statue of his likeness. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Paul Farber, co-founder of Monument Lab and the curator of Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments – a new exhibit exploring why people are so fixated on Rocky and what this lore says about the impact of monuments on culture.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: City Fitness Women Against Abuse Free Library of Philadelphia