Black history in Philly; Pol at the Fringe Fest; Funds for William Way Center

#BILLYPENNGRAM OF THE DAY

Ground level view from Von Colin Memorial Field
(Photo by @chuckseye)

Despite President’s House changes, Philly is rich with stories of Black history

The Trump administration brought national attention to Philly’s African American history after swapping out panels telling the story of people enslaved by George Washington on Independence Mall.

Here are several local spaces where you can learn about Black history in the city. Continue reading…

“The Escape of Ona Judge” historical plaque commemorates one of the people enslaved by former President George Washington and stands across from the President’s House site. (Heather Chin/Billy Penn)

Former PA treasurer among Fringe Fest newcomers

Joe Torsella wanted to major in theater, but he detoured into a career as the Pennsylvania Secretary of Treasury following stints leading the National Constitution Center and being appointed an ambassador by President Barack Obama.

Now he’s one of several rooking theater creators taking part in this year’s Philly Fringe Festival. Continue reading…

Former Pennsylvania Treasurer Joe Torsella has left the world of politics in favor of theater. (Chris Knight/AP Photo)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• ‘Always watching’: Furor grows over Flock’s automated license plate readers in Delaware as police laud AI-powered cameras in Pennsylvania and elsewhere. [WHYY/City & State]

• Gov. Shapiro faces calls to close youth detention center, end state collaboration with ICE. [Capital-Star]

• Pa. election 2026: Where governor candidates Garrity and Shapiro stand on energy costs, the environment, and more. [Spotlight PA]

• Philly’s former DEI chief is suing the city, claiming discrimination and harassment. [NBC10]

• A new $12,875 grant supports William Way archives, arts programs amid building closure. [PGN]

• Philly PHLASH says it likely just had its busiest stretch in its 32-year history thanks to the World Cup and other tourist draws. [PhillyVoice]

MAYOR WATCH

Mayor Parker attends the Mayfair Elementary School Building Trades Summer Program to participate in an episode of The Dope Student Podcast, which focuses on career pathways through hands-on learning, mentorship, and conversations with leaders from government, business, and the community. (10 a.m.)

Highlights from Billy Penn’s City Guide

The Golden Block: A guide to Latino community in Philly’s Fairhill neighborhood
With its distinctive golden road markings and tall palm trees, El Centro de Oro is known for its commercial shopping district lined with family-owned businesses and community-driven organizations.

Sports in Philly: It’s more than the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers and Flyers
From ultimate frisbee to lacrosse, the city has a mind-boggling assortment of options.

ON THE CALENDAR

Ladies Night Out at Yards Brewing (Thursday),
Neighborhood Jawnts to South 9th Street markets (Friday through Sunday),
Zoo Done It? mystery at the Philadelphia Zoo (Saturday)
AND MORE!

Send us events to add to the **FULL LIST** of this week’s events calendar at BillyPenn.com!