Philly’s McClinton wins Pa. speaker vote in tied House
Pennsylvania lawmakers on Tuesday returned Democratic Speaker Joanna McClinton to lead the chamber for the new session after the Republican floor leader bowed out to resolve a deadlock. The Democrats hold a one-vote advantage, but one legislator was ill and not in attendance when the vote was held. It raises questions about Gov. Josh Shapiro’s ability to pass legislation. Continue reading ….
Are you ready for the “Abbott/Sunny” crossover tonight?
The long-anticipated crossover episode is tonight, and Billy Penn’s Nick Kariuki spoke to superfans of both shows about what they expect from the episode. The big question: Can the “Sunny” crew learn, even when they’re inside an elementary school? Continue reading …
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• The winter storm’s “main show” is over in the Philly region, but more snow and freezing temps are expected this week. [WHYY]
• The city will launch its weekly “wellness court” in Kensington in the coming weeks, offering same-day adjudication for less serious offenses and the option for drug treatment instead of criminal penalties. [Kensington Voice]
• A Pa. Supreme Court decision cleared the way for development at a Sunoco site in Chestnut Hill. [Chestnut Hill Local]
• SEPTA’s funding crisis doesn’t just disrupt service. For Philly students, it disrupts their school day. [Grid Philly]
• A sinkhole in Hunting Park closed N. 6th Street and is in the process of being repaired. [Fox29/6ABC]
• The Phillies didn’t make a big offseason move. Here are the 6 things they’re counting on in 2025. [Hittin’ Season/BP]
Weekly brief on gun violence prevention (with PCGVR)
We publish this report each week in partnership with the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting.
- An estimated 821,514 guns were sold in Pennsylvania during 2024, including an estimated 526,319 handguns, according to seasonally adjusted estimates. [PCGVR via The Trace]
- Philly saw a historic drop in murders in 2024. What changed? [Inquirer$]
- “We’ve been at this rodeo before”: gun-safety groups prepare for second Trump term by focusing on state-level action. [The Guardian]
By the numbers in Philadelphia
- 17: Shooting victims recorded between Dec. 29, 2024 and Jan. 4, 2025, including 4 fatalities, vs. 17, with 5 fatalities, the week prior. [Philly Police]
- 9: Shooting victims as of Jan. 4 were down 57% vs. the previous year. [PCGVR]
- 5: Year-to-date homicides, down 17% vs. last year’s pace; up 25% vs. five years ago [Philly Police]
MAYOR WATCH
The Mayor will deliver remarks at this annual Martin Luther King Day of Service press conference, hosted by Global Citizen, at Girard College Welcome Center, 2101 S. College Ave. (11 a.m.)
The Mayor will join Parker Administration officials as the city officially opens Riverview Wellness Village – recovery housing for individuals finishing treatment for substance use disorders, at Riverview Wellness Village, 7979 State Rd. (3:15 p.m.)
ON THE CALENDAR
🏈 Friday, Jan. 10: They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce
Request free tickets to this show at Union Transfer, where the Eagles legend will chat with celebrity guests from the football world and beyond, in front of a live audience of NFL fans. Also on Jan. 17, 24, and 31. (3:30 p.m.)
🚃 Saturday, Jan. 11: All Aboard! Philly’s Broad-Ridge Subway
Tour active subway lines, the hidden lower level by the sports stadiums, old subway cars rusting at Fern Rock, ghost stations, and more. Meets at 8th and Market. Led by Jerry Silverman, who was the first rider on PATCO. $23.18 ticket, plus one subway fare. (1 to 3 p.m.)
📖 Saturday, Jan. 11: AfroLatine Stories – Storytime with Stephanie Brown
An interactive storytime featuring AfroLatine writers, perfect for children ages 4-8, at Esperanza Arts Center. $10, free for students and seniors. (3 to 5 p.m.)
❤️ Through Saturday, Jan. 11: Philly Loves Bowie Week
From David Bowie-themed karaoke at Johnny Brenda’s and a dance party at Trestle Inn, to Fishtown Choir performing and a massive concert at Theatre of Living Arts, this week of events celebrating the musical icon has something for everyone. Various dates, times and locations.
🍹 Sunday, Jan. 12: Non-Alcoholic Speed Dating for Pa. Singles Ages 40s/50s
Meet between five and 12 potential matches for six-minute chats during Dry January at Nutmeg Nonalcoholic Bar and Market in East Passyunk. $39.12 per person. (6 to 8 p.m.)
🏎️ Jan. 11 through Jan. 20: Philadelphia Auto Show
The Auto Show returns to the Pennsylvania Convention Center for another year. Tickets are $12 to $20.
Catch up on the previous week
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