The world in a bear at Jenks School (Instagram by @itsjeffmeade)

$11 million for EV chargers in final surge of Biden admin grants

The Philadelphia region is receiving $11.1 million for 150 electric vehicle charging ports in the city and others nearby. The funding from the Biden administration is among a number of last-minute grant announcements before the presidential transition next week. The city, especially more disadvantaged neighborhoods, lack enough chargers to sustain a transition to EVs. Continue reading…

An electric vehicle charging station. (Sanfel)

Down on the Phillies? You probably shouldn’t be

The team has not made a big splash in the offseason, but power rankings by major media players make one thing clear: Experts expect the Phillies to contend this year. The Hittin’ Season crew think they have a point, and explain why.  Continue reading …

The Phillies have as much talent as they did when they won the NL championship series in 2022, maybe more. (AP photo)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• Cyberfraud scams are costing Pennsylvanians billions of dollars each year, AG Henry says. [CBS3] 

• On Fanta Bility’s 12th birthday, her favorite park in Sharon Hill was renamed to honor her legacy. [Inquirer$] 

• The USS John F. Kennedy is set to depart the Navy Yard today on its final voyage before being scrapped in Texas. [PhillyVoice] 

• A former Merck manager is launching a Seniors Helping Seniors franchise in Philly to provide home care for, and by, seniors. [BizJournal$]

• “Small steps are truly worth it”: Philly-area residents discussed climate solutions at WHYY event. [WHYY]

• Historic Philadelphia Inc. is seeking actors to portray costumed storytellers to “portray real life people who lived in Philadelphia during the time of the American Revolution and the 18th Century.” [NBC10] 

MAYOR WATCH

The Mayor will participate in a press conference to unveil a first look at the 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show, Gardens of Tomorrow, at The Franklin Institute, 222 N 20th St. (10 a.m.)

ON THE CALENDAR

💚 Thursday, Jan. 16: Connect for Change: Sustainable Community Mixer
This 2nd annual volunteer mixer brings residents and local orgs together at Indy Hall Clubhouse for eco-speed networking, flash talks with organizers, and info about Green Philly’s initiatives and events. Free with RSVP. (6 to 8 p.m.) 

😂 Friday, Jan. 17: Lady Laughs Philly Comedy Show
Philly’s only monthly comedy show that features ALL women and queer comics returns for a new year. January’s show is at the Painted Mug Cafe in South Philly. Laugh with diverse comedians and content! $15 tickets. (7:30 to 9 p.m.)

✊🏽 Saturday, Jan. 18: People’s March Philadelphia
“We all march for different reasons, but we march for the same cause: to defend our rights and our future.” Free. Meets at City Hall and marches to the Art Museum. (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) 
A similar rally is in Montco from 12 to 3 p.m. starting at the Montco Courthouse

🪡 Saturday, Jan. 18: Saturday Sewcial Club
Fox Chase Library hosts this adult sewing group that meets monthly for all skill levels. (2 p.m.) 

💙 Saturday, Jan. 18: Grief and New Beginnings
A free workshop in Germantown exploring rituals and rhythms that support us as we navigate grief in the midst of new beginnings. Free. (2 to 4 p.m.)