E is for Eagles (Instagram by @billlent)

Maybe Market East should stay as it is

Is Market East’s role as a regional shopping center firmly in its distant past? Should city officials and planners be figuring out how to turn the historic retail district into more of a mixed-used neighborhood, with a lot more housing?

That’s one view, but it’s hardly the only one. Retail consultant Michael Berne says there’s a real need for middle-tier retail in Center City that the Fashion District mall fills. Continue reading …

The Fashion District mall on Market Street in Philadelphia. Feb. 6, 2025. (Meir Rinde/Billy Penn)

Orrin Evans shares of himself on latest project

Philly’s Orrin Evans is one of the most accomplished jazz pianists in the world. On his latest project, Walk a Mile in My Shoe, he shares his lifelong struggles with a serous medical condition. He discusses it, and other things, in a Q-and-A with contributor Rashad Grove. Evans is performing this week at World Cafe Live. Continue reading …

Pianist Orrin Evans (Photo by Christopher Kayfield)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• The Eagles’ Super Bowl parade will take place Friday; details will be provided today. [WHYY] 

• Bill aimed at increasing number of bird flu testers is among first to pass Pennsylvania legislature this session. [Capital-Star]

• Error-filled directories leave thousands in Pa. unable to find healthcare providers. [Spotlight PA] 

• A winter storm will bring another round of snow late Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning’s commute, creating hazardous travel conditions. [NBC10]

• Penn stands to lose $250 million from NIH indirect research funding cut under Trump, with other Philly-region medical schools and research institutions also at risk. N.J. and Delaware joined 22 states in suing to block the cuts. [Inquirer$] 

• The Delaware River Basin Commission names Kristen Kavanagh as executive director. [Green Philly]

MAYOR WATCH

Mayor Parker joins city officials at City Hall in sharing details about the upcoming parade celebrating the Eagles’ Super Bowl win. (11 a.m.)

ON THE CALENDAR

🧨 Here’s a running list of Lunar New Year events and activities across Philly.
🫶🏾 Here’s a list of Black History Month events across Philly. 

🎞️ Tuesday, Feb. 11: “Pariah” (2011) screening 
Walnut Street West Library’s Black Excellence Film Series continues with this film, following the journey of a young Black woman as she navigates her identity, sexuality and familial expectations. (4:30 to 6:30 p.m.) 

🏠 Tuesday, Feb. 11: Bridging Blocks – Gentrification
Philadelphia has seen a sharp increase in new housing units, but affordability is a huge issue. How do we balance the need for affordable housing with the need to meet the market’s demands? Join WHYY News Community & Engagement team for “Bridging Blocks,” a civic dialogue series at Parkway Central Library. (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.) 

🦁 Thursday, Feb. 13: Ginger Arts Center Lunar New Year fundraiser
From 6 to 7:30 p.m., join the youth-led community fundraiser at the Welcoming Center, featuring lion dances and performers, Chinatown eateries, community speakers, raffles and more.

📽️ Friday, Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day Party for the 4th Annual Philly Film Society’s Screening of Possession
Watch one of the most truly unhinged horror films at the Film Society on V Day with the Girls Like Horror group. Beforehand, make DIY Valentines with MovieJawn and snap photos in front of a backdrop. Tickets are $11.50 to $15.50. (8 p.m. party; 9:30 p.m. film) 

🛝 All February: Leaders and Legends of Philadelphia exhibit
Smith Memorial Playground showcases an exhibit featuring various notable members of Philadelphia’s Black community, complete with biographical info, kids fun facts and corresponding activities. The monthlong exhibit also includes discussion questions for families to discuss diversity and equity amidst Black History Month. This year’s honorees include politicians, entrepreneurs and athletes.