Philly breaking the Portal was the least surprising story of 2025
The Portal arrived with much fanfare in October, as a public tech/art project to bring people together across continents. In Philly, the reaction was … fear for the Portal.
Apparently that concern wasn’t misplaced. Crews were working to repair its broken glass face this week, and there are plans to move it. But to where? And will it stick around long-term? Continue reading …
Community College of Philadelphia, union avert strike
Eleventh-hour negotiations brought the two sides together as a Wednesday strike deadline loomed. The deal included better pay for faculty and staff, smaller class sizes and free transportation options for students. Best of all, classes took place as usual. Continue reading …
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• The heads of NPR, PBS testified on Capitol Hill to defend public media at House hearing. [NPR]
• The Pa. House passed a bill to defend the Affordable Care Act in the state. [Capital-Star]
• Gov. Shapiro announced a $5 million grant to help a Philly Muslim community center expand classrooms and higher teachers at its private school. [WHYY]
• Penn Health System cuts 300 positions amid uncertainty. [DP]
• EPA workers, supporters march in Philly to protest cuts, while lawmakers in D.C. protest cuts were illegal. [WHYY/AP]
• The Parker admin ended a program that gave the community a say in how federal dollars were spent to address opioid crisis in Kensington. [Kensington Voice]
• The Phillies opened their season in D.C. Here are 10 questions about the team to get you to the first pitch, at 4:05 p.m. [Billy Penn]
• Don’t expect the Eagles’ Tush Push to go away anytime soon. The attempt to ban it lacks the votes, insiders say. [Crossing Broad]
• “Philly, I love you”: A West Philly street was renamed for actor, rapper Will Smith. [NBC10]
Philly DA Race
- Philadelphia DA election:
What you need to know about the Democratic primary candidates - Primary Election Day is Tuesday, May 20
Candidate appearances:
- Recap of Larry Krasner and Pat Dugan’s first town hall on March 11.
- Billy Penn’s recap of Krasner-Dugan debate on March 20.
MAYOR WATCH
Mayor Parker will join community partners and city officials for a special event to honor Women’s History Month, at City Hall. (12 p.m.)
The mayor will join the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce for a celebration of the Lehigh Valley communities, at Delta Hotels by Marriott, 7736 Adrienne Drive, Breinigsville. (5:50 p.m.)
ON THE CALENDAR
👭🏽 Women’s History Month events in Philly
🙌🏽 WHYY Civic News Conference – April 4
🛍️ Friday, March 28: Trans Day of Visibility 2025: Vendor Market & Fashion Show
Celebrate at the William Way LGBTQ Community Center with a lineup of trans makers, artists and creatives at their indoor vendor market, then stick around for a one-of-a-kind fashion show featuring trans designers and models — with all looks styled from Philly AIDS Thrift. (4 to 8 p.m.)
🎨 Friday, March 28: Art Battle Philadelphia
Immerse yourself in the thrill of live competition as talented artists race against the clock, bringing their visions to life with every bold stroke. Vote for your favorites and help crown the ultimate champion across three rounds. Then bid on your own unique masterpiece. $20-30 tickets. (6 to 10 p.m.)
🍬 Saturday, March 29: Sweet Souls: Confectionery Connections
On this walking tour, learn about the individuals and families who invented delicious products we still consume today. Join a post-tour tasting of sweets invented by some of Laurel Hill Cemetery’s residents. Up to $20 tickets. (1 to 3 p.m.)
🫶🏽 Saturday, March 29: Hearing Philadelphia rally and performance
This community-based music project honoring Philadelphians lost to gun violence will perform at City Hall and also feature a clothing drive, job fair and mental health resources. With support from Moms Bonded By Grief. (3 to 4:30 p.m.)
🪨 Saturday-Sunday, March 29-30: Philly Mineral Treasures and Fossil Fair
This annual rock, mineral and fossil show features 30+ vendors selling minerals, fossils, gems, crystals, meteorites and jewelry from all over the world. Plus books, decorative items and other merchandise. Kids can enjoy the fossil dig and receive free minerals. Held at LuLu Temple, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, just off PA Turnpike I-276, exit 333 or I-476, exit 20. Free parking. $7 adults; $2 children. (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday)
🛍️ Sunday, March 30: Richmond Street Flea
The first flea market of the year returns to Richmond Street, from Clearfield to Allegheny, with local businesses and 50+ guest vendors, plus live music and DJ sets on Clementine Street. (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
🍸 Sunday, March 30: Magic of Botanical Mixology at Philadelphia Distilling
Learn about the history and health benefits of a few key herbs and botanicals, as well as their uses in beer brewing, distilling and cocktails. Enjoy each in teas, tinctures, beer infusions, spirits and cocktails. The talk will include ethical sourcing and foraging practices and practical uses. Learn how to forage your own ingredients. $48.25 tickets. (1 to 3 p.m.)
Catch up on the previous week
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