City Cast Philly

It's the Friday News Roundup. We're talking about how Philly's District Attorney is teaming up with a national coalition of prosecutors to push back against ICE. Plus, Mayor Cherelle Parker speaks out about the slavery exhibit removed from the President's House. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz also discuss how the city is still digging out from Sunday's snowstorm.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  DA Larry Krasner forms coalition of progressive prosecutors committed to charging federal agents who commit crimes Sen. McCormick talks immigration enforcement, shooting death, ICE funding during telephone town hall Nationwide boycott targeting ICE planned for Friday Mayor Parker Addressing Exhibit Removal at Independence Mall Governor Shapiro Takes Legal Action to Challenge Trump Administration's Removal of Slavery Exhibit at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia PETA wants to replace Punxsutawney Phil with 3D hologram Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

There are tons of affordable ways to hone in on self-care during the cold months. Host Trenae Nuri talks with senior producer Abby Fritz to put you on to the best ways to beat cabin fever this winter, with everything from red light therapy to steamy fitness classes to sledding spots.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's Wednesday, so we're talking politics. Host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and political contributor Lauren Vidas discuss how the city handled the snowstorm and the clean-up. Plus, they talk about the school district's plan to close 20 schools, Mayor Cherelle Parker finally getting City Council approval for her housing plan, and a proposal to limit the powers of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (and their face coverings).  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the nation, birthed right here in Philly. There are tons of festivals and block parties planned, along with sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, the NCAA tournament, and the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. But why should Philadelphians get excited about the 2026 hoopla, especially at a time that many of us see as a dark moment in our nation's history? Host Trenae Nuri sat down with Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, to talk about the challenges, joys, and expectations when it comes to celebrating America, and us, in 2026. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

National Park Service workers used crowbars and wrenches last week to dismantle exhibits that mentioned slavery at the President's House at Independence National Historical Park. It took 90 minutes to remove the signs honoring nine people enslaved at this home by President George Washington. The city immediately filed a lawsuit demanding the exhibits be reinstalled. We knew this was coming; we just didn't know when. Under an executive order issued by President Donald Trump last year, material at national monuments, museums, and parks that “inappropriately disparage Americans” were slated for removal. At the time, host Trenae Nuri spoke with the Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, historiographer of the global African Methodist Church. Until last year, he was the pastor at Mother Bethel AME Church just a few blocks away. In light of last week's events, today we're listening back on that conversation.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

This week Mayor Cherelle Parker unveiled two innovative proposals for creating housing in the city. In our Friday News Roundup, host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about those plans and the court fight over the Trump administration's subpoena for a list of Jewish students and employees at the University of Pennsylvania. There's also a major snowstorm coming our way this weekend, so we give some ideas for where to go sledding. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Cherelle Parker unveils plans for modular housing factory in North Philadelphia  Two years in, here's how Philly's political insiders think Cherelle Parker is doing as mayor Philadelphia building trades unions will loan $50M to help redevelop the dilapidated Brith Sholom House Who's a Jew? Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

In part three of our South Street Series, covering the past, present, and Future of one of Philly's most iconic streets, we take a look at the mix of businesses that have made the corridor distinct. Host Trenae Nuri talked with Drexel University Professor Richardson Dilworth, Condom Kingdom owner Stu Schlaffman, Streets Dept. founder Conrad Benner, Councilmember Mark Squilla, and Jim's South Street president Ken Silver.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 10th, 2025. You can find the whole series in the podcast feed.  What's your favorite South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel is running Philly's police department as ICE descends on cities across the country, leading to conflict between federal law enforcement officers, immigrant communities, and protesters. We get Bethel's perspective on the role of the Philadelphia police department when it comes to ICE. Host Trenae Nuri also asks about the city's 2025 murder rate, which was the lowest since 1966. And in the second part of the show we bring in David Zega, the executive director for strategy for the department, to talk about the new and unprecedented five-year strategic plan for the Philadelphia Police Department. The public comment period for the strategic plan, which you can read here, ends Feb. 11.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Restaurant accolades like Michelin stars and James Beard awards are nice, but no one knows Philly like Philly. On Feb. 1, a restaurant will be crowned with the "Icon Award" at The Tasties, the homegrown culinary award ceremony that celebrates the best of our city's food and drink industry. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Eli Kulp, host of The CHEF Radio and Delicious City Philly podcasts, partner at High Street Hospitality Group, and one of the creators of The Tasties. They dish about what it takes to be an iconic restaurant in Philadelphia, the surprising names that didn't make the cut, and the immersive experiences that will raise the bar for the second Tasties awards ceremony and afterparty next month.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup, where host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz catch you up on the news of the week, including: How threats by Philly law enforcement officials to arrest ICE officers led a state senator to call the whole city a “shithole,” why Philly's new bus terminal is really just a temporary one, and what has prompted a series of shootings involving tow truck drivers.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Police probe 3 killings allegedly tied to Philadelphia tow company Mayor Cherelle L. Parker Signs Bill to Fund Revitalization of Interim Intercity Bus Facility at 1001 Filbert Street​ Philly bus terminal moving forward on Filbert Street ‘We will arrest you': District attorney, sheriff double down on warnings to arrest ICE agents in Philly Lawmakers warn Philly officials against prosecuting ICE agents: 'That's not how America works' Suffs Is the Perfect Musical for This Moment How To Celebrate MLK Day 2026 in Philly Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Whether you're an out-of-towner or lifelong Philadelphian, you have probably visited South Street to see your favorite band at the TLA, grab a citywide, or eat a cheesesteak at Jim's. We're revisiting the second part of our series on this iconic street diving into what has drawn people to it for centuries: Entertainment. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with legendary Philly DJ Cosmo Baker, Philly Jazz Legacy Project consulting archivist Jack McCarthy, Bob & Barbara's owner Jack Prince, author David Bradley (whose book South Street is republishing next year), and Odunde CEO Bumi Fernandez-West.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 9th, 2025. You can find the whole series in the podcast feed.  What's your favorite South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

On last week's Wednesday politics episode, we heard criticism about a decades-long tradition in city government called “councilmanic prerogative.” This power enables our ten district City Council members to greenlight or stop projects on city-owned land in their districts – and get the final say on zoning changes. Councilmember Jeffery Young, Jr. has become a focus of criticism because he refused to allow the reconstruction of the dilapidated Cecil B. Moore Library to move forward. He's here to defend the practice – and his vision for the library. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philly has no shortage of after-hours events, but it can be tricky to find alcohol-free spaces—especially affordable ones. So whether you're giving dry January a try, or you've been sober for years, there's plenty of fun events - minus the booze - here in the city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón to give recommendations for the best cheap, late-night, and spirit-free activities.  Here's the episode with Bar Palmina, the only non-alcoholic bar in Philly, and the First Friday guide.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's trash day, and it's windy. The result? Recycling strewn all over your block, milk cartons and Amazon boxes and cans of soup tumbling around on the curb and sidewalk. What's up with how we pick up trash, or don't, in our city? Why do windy recycling days make our streets look so gross? And isn't there a better way? Our guest Nic Esposito, who once served as the city's zero waste and litter director, tells host Trenae Nuri how we can be doing all of this better. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup. We're talking about Gov. Josh Shapiro announcing his run for reelection against presumptive Republican nominee Stacy Garrity. Also, a man died in police custody in Mayfair and the city is cracking down on scalpers selling restaurant reservations. Plus: Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz dish on Marc Vetri's latest cookbook and the Eagles' playoff run.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Garrity campaign tries to walk back election denial  Josh Shapiro's reelection campaign in Pennsylvania starts now — but 2028 looms large Pa. State Sen. Doug Mastriano won't run for governor again in 2026, after months of teasing a potential campaign launch Philly expands outdoor dining and cracks down on ‘reservation scalpers' ahead of expected 2026 tourism Philly is trying to crack down on reservation scalpers Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Heinz History Center The Frick PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We love South Street here at City Cast Philly. Today we're revisiting part one of our series looking at the history and influence of South Street, from the Schuylkill to the Delaware Rivers. These blocks are resilient — surviving riots, fights for human dignity, and near demolition by city planners. And these blocks are lively — art and music has kept this corridor brimming with creativity going back to the very beginning. Last September host Trenae Nuri interviewed political scientist Richardson Dilworth, journalist Dan Biddle, and Selena Austin of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania to explain the street's storied past. We also use archival tape from the Philadelphia Department of Records. This episode originally aired on Sept. 8th, 2025. You can find all three-parts of the series in the podcast feed.  What's your South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Heinz History Center The Frick PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's Wednesday, so we're talking politics and the peculiar Philly political practice known as  “councilmanic prerogative.” It's an unwritten rule here in Philly that basically gives district councilmembers a lot of power. They can greenlight new developments or bring projects to a complete stop. Over in North Philly, there's tension between Councilmember Jeffrey “Jay” Young, Jr. and some community members over his use of councilmanic prerogative to block the long-planned reconstruction of the Cecil B. Moore Library. Daniel Pearson, columnist at The Philadelphia Inquirer, joins us to discuss both the library issue and this nuance in city politics.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

What can we expect for Philly in 2026? Will council members end their honeymoon with the mayor? Where will an AI data center open? And how many cheesesteak shops will open? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by the City Cast Philly team, executive producer Matt Katz, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón to drop our predictions for politics, food, and city life.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Nobody understands a city's pulse quite like a City Cast host — and that makes them the best predictors for 2026's biggest local stories. City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri joins CEO David Plotz and the other 12 hosts from across the network to talk about the big changes coming to our cities, from political shifts to data centers. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: ⁠Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We're also on Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this January 5th episode: ⁠PA Preferred⁠ Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Happy New Year! We're excited to welcome 2026 as the city begins to light up with so many big events. In this episode, you'll hear our best tips for enjoying January, plus where to swing in a heated golf bay, eat a cheap "girl dinner," and learn about Philly's long list of firsts. And if you love Siani's idea for swapping out your clothes, don't miss our recent episode about the best thrift stores in Philly. For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Philly, check out our newsletter's take on what to do this month. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Simply Eloped. And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Philly. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

In the mood for dessert? We've got the best spots for cinnamon rolls, cannolis, cookies, cakes, and more. Join host Trenae Nuri in conversation with food journalists for The Infatuation Philadelphia, Candis McLean and Alison Kessler.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Planning a trip to Philly or have guests visiting from out of town? Look no further for recommendations than this episode as the City Cast Philly team (host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, newsletter editor Siani Colón, and executive producer Matt Katz) give nothing but the best recommendations for must-do experiences, restaurants, and hidden gems in the city. What do you recommend visitors see and eat in Philly? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 To listen to our series on South Street that Trenae mentioned, our four episodes are here, here, here, and here. And here is our show on Carpenters' Hall. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

What happened to burgers in this town? You used to be able to get a great burger for $10,  maybe $15. Now we've got $25-plus burgers everywhere. So host Trenae Nuri talks with food contributor Alisha Miranda about 11 spots in Philly where we can still find great burgers (and fries, of course) for $20 or less.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philly has a big 2026 with major events such as the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and celebrations for America's semiquincentennial. And big events mean more tourists coming through Philly, especially through our airport. But Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) was just ranked dead last for the fifth year in a row in customer satisfaction. Host Trenae Nuri chats with Siani Colon, our newsletter editor, about whether that ranking rings true to Philadelphians and what PHL is doing to fix itself up before a big year of tourism.  Your thoughts on PHL? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped   Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup! We're talking about wrapping up 2025 with the fewest homicides in decades. There's a new drug on our streets that's overwhelming our hospitals. And we're going to laugh off some of the biggest stories of the year. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz also dish about their favorite City Cast episodes of 2025.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  A Powerful New Drug Is Creating a ‘Withdrawal Crisis' in Philadelphia Celebrating Progress and Shaping Philadelphia's Future 10-year-old boy burned in Philadelphia plane crash returns home: "It's a miracle" A hidden alley could become a key walking path in Old City for 2026 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Hotels aren't just a place for your friends and family to stay during the holidays. In Philly they're also places to start toasting the new year, right now. Back in September host Trenae Nuri sat down with City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda to talk about the best hotel bars in our city.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Last week we saw a political fight erupt over Mayor Cherelle Parker's signature proposal — the H.O.M.E. initiative, a $2 billion plan to create and preserve 30,000 units of housing. In a 16-1 vote, City Council amended the first phase of the mayor's plan in order to lower the income thresholds for Philly renters and homeowners who would benefit from this, making more lower-income Philadelphians eligible for government aid to fix up their homes and make houses handicap accessible. But the mayor was not happy with Council changing her plan. She wants to prioritize Philadelphians with somewhat higher incomes in the first year of her housing initiative. On today's show host Trenae Nuri talks with Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who helped to lead the charge to change the mayor's plan, about why she thinks City Council's amendment was a victory for Philly. And then we get some analysis about what's really going on in City Hall from our politics contributor, Lauren Vidas.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. If you enjoyed this interview with Janessa White, the Director & General Manager of Simply Eloped, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philadelphia makes beautiful music. From intimate shows at Time and MilkBoy to large crowds at The Fillmore and the Met, Philly's live music scene is unmatched. This past year, soul music in Philly really stood out. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Toya Haynes, editor of Philly Soul Now, who has curated the ultimate playlist of the best Philly soul music of 2025. They talk about the artists defining the sound right now, the venues shaping the culture, and why everyone's band has someone from Philly. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

As the year draws to a close, our food contributor Alisha Miranda joins us to break down the year that was in restaurants and bars with host Trenae Nuri. What were the trends we observed? What were the highlights from 2025? What are we happy to leave behind (looking at you, QR-coded menus)?  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

On today's Friday News Roundup, host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about how the mayor and council are throwing punches over the city's big plan to create and fix 30,000 units of housing, why youth football players from Philly got arrested down in Florida, and where the Rocky statue is moving.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  8 members of Philly youth football team face felony charges in Florida Philly coach speaks out after teen players arrested in Florida for stealing Philly Council votes against Mayor Parker's vision for her signature housing plan, signaling a win for progressives Does the Rocky statue really get twice as many visitors as the Liberty Bell? Yes, but ...  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Happy holidays! Hanukkah starts Sunday night and Christmas is just around the bend, so we've got the Phillyiest gift guide for you. But the stakes are high because the City Cast Philly team is doing our own version of a white elephant gift exchange. Listen to get gift ideas and to find out what host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón win (or don't win). Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

State Senator Vincent Hughes, representing Philadelphia in the legislature since the mid-1980s, joins host Trenae Nuri for our weekly Wednesday politics show to talk about his bill to ban students from using phones in schools (⁠which advanced yesterday to a vote in the senate⁠), a new law to prevent discrimination based on hair (which was signed into law last month), and the reasons why SEPTA still needs more money (despite the recent bailouts) .  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: ⁠Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We're also on Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise

In six months the world's eyes will be on us. Philly is hosting six matches of the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament, the most-watched sporting event in the world. And we just found out which countries will be playing here at Lincoln Financial Field come June. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with 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 for Philly.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise

Bike lanes continue to be a point of controversy on our city streets. More bike lanes are popping up in our neighborhoods, but activists want a bigger citywide network for cyclists – and they want the bike lanes protected to help prevent more injuries and deaths. In the latest installment of our occasional series, “Whose Streets,” host Trenae Nuri gets the latest on biking in the city — from City Hall to Fairmount Park to the Pine/Spruce Street corridor — with Dave Talone, organizer with Philly Bike Action. Have any experiences biking in the city or sharing the road with cyclists? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss the news of the week, from the split between Mayor Parker and City Council over her big housing initiative to the pending arrival of driverless cars on the streets of Philly to the deplorable egging of an Eagles coach's home.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  City Council took a rare stand against Mayor Parker by allotting more housing funds to the poorest Philadelphians Restaurateurs call for expanded sidewalk dining ahead of 2026 tourism surge A man died driving on Northwest Philly's winding, wet roads. The neighborhood has tried addressing the danger for decades. A Philadelphia police officer critically injured in a motorcycle crash six years ago has died Waymo eyes Philadelphia expansion Self-driving car company Waymo officially expands to Philadelphia, has started letting cars drive themselves Police confirm Kevin Patullo's home was egged over weekend Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the end of the year and our wallets are getting thin. To save on those last-minute gifts, thrifting could be your answer. Host Trenae Nuri chats with producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón about the secondhand options Philly has to offer. Plus, where to find local high-end consignment and vintage furniture.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Pennsylvania politics were pretty messy this year. Pennsylvanians waited 135 days for Harrisburg to pass a budget. Philly nonprofits had to cut back on services, and school districts took out loans just to pay the bills. Moving forward, how do we make government work? In our weekly politics episode, host Trenae Nuri talks with State Senator Anthony H. Williams, who represents parts of Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, to talk about ways to get more money flowing into the Commonwealth and his goal to withhold paychecks from legislators during budget stalemates.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Dining out involves more than the food on your plate. It's also about the experience of being in a different – and hopefully beautiful and comfortable – space. Host Trenae Nuri gives us a tour of the best designed restaurants and bars in Philly, and why our food contributor Alisha Miranda loves them.  Where do you love to eat? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Fairmount Park Conservancy Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's getting cold outside, but the City Cast Philly team is highlighting plenty of events to warm your hearts this month. We discuss classic Philly winter activities like the Wanamaker Light Show and the Morris Arboretum's Holiday Garden Railway. Plus, a "Diva Worship" New Year's Eve party and how to give back to your community. And if you still need to pick up some holiday gifts, there are plenty of local markets to help you check off your lists.  For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Philly, check out Hey Philly's take on what to do this month.  If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Penn Live Arts and  Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Philly. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Join City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri alongside fellow hosts from Austin, Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities for a special episode that'll help you knock out your holiday shopping early and support small businesses around the country. From a handlebar mount (and app!) that'll turn your phone into a bike cam, to a mustard-of-the-month subscription box, our hosts are here to tell the stories of local businesses in their cities making cool stuff that you can order online right now.  Visit our website to find the full list of recommendations with links for holiday shopping! Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

If you see a restaurant you want to try and your friends are dragging their feet to make a reservation, just dine solo. If you're looking to get into a book and not a conversation, just dine solo. If you're new to the city, just dine solo! But, where do you sit, should you get a table or bar stool, and what are the best days of the week to dine by yourself? Host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda break down the etiquette and dish on the best bars and restaurants to eat solo.  What are your favorite solo-dining spots? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Your holiday gifts are on the stoop…and now they're gone. Stolen, just like your Halloween costumes, groceries, and laundry detergent. Package theft is rampant in Philly, so host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz to discuss both the horror stories and the ways to keep your boxes away from porch pirates. Do you have stories about package theft? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise