Yesterday in Philly
SUBJECT: Embiid Sidelined, SEPTA Gets Gates, and Philly Reacts to Iran Strikes
Heads up: Just as we finally get a few days of spring, everything else feels a little chaotic. Here’s your catch-up:
🚨 Sixers Hit with Bad News—Embiid Sidelined Again
Let’s get the pain out of the way first: Joel Embiid is officially out for Sunday’s game against the Celtics—and at least the next two—thanks to a lingering oblique strain that’s not letting up. He also missed practice with new soreness. So, Sixers, no pressure, but you’re gonna have to figure out the Celtics without you-know-who (again). Arena silver lining: The Sixers and Flyers tapped Levy to run arena concessions next season, booting Aramark after 30 years. Maybe a new cheesesteak will help with the pain?
🎭 Philly on the World Stage (Sorta): Iran Tensions Ripple Here
The U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran have Philly buzzing. Protesters took to City Hall to condemn the attacks, while some Iranian Americans expressed cautious relief. Local and regional lawmakers—from Shapiro to Philly's Congress crew—came out strongly denouncing any drift toward wider war (even repeating the refrain: 'Americans do not want war'). For the record: No direct impact on Philly yet, but some economists warn gas prices could spike if this keeps escalating. Heads up if you commute by car.
🚇 SEPTA Tests New Turnstile Tech on Broad Street
If you ride the Broad Street Line at Cecil B. Moore, expect new full-height gates at the station. SEPTA's testing these subway-tall turnstiles to crack down on fare evasion. If they work, expect more across the city (and maybe fewer free rides for the guy sneaking in behind you).
🏈 Eagles Watch
Offseason never truly stops: The Eagles are mulling whether to keep some young corners (again, big Quinyon Mitchell energy) and, rumor has it, they might be open to listening to offers for QB Tanner McKee if the price is right.
🌸 Event Reminders (Stuff To Actually Do)
- The Philadelphia Flower Show is back with all the floral chaos you missed.
- Philly Museum of Art’s trying pay-what-you-wish tickets on Friday nights: Date idea?
- And, because Black History Month doesn’t end in February, kudos to two Philly teachers for their 33-hour Black history marathon lesson. That's a record attempt we can get behind.
⛅ Weather Break
Sunday comes with an arctic front blowing in and a real chance for light snow Tuesday (so don’t put away that jacket).
More tomorrow—assuming Philly doesn't throw us another curveball tonight.
