🦅 Yesterday in Philly
Pierre Robert murals, free Uber rides, and Philly court bans on AI glasses
Good morning, Philly. Here’s what went down yesterday—the stuff you’ll actually care about:
City Life
- Pierre Robert isn’t gone, but Philly’s already debating how (and where) we should honor one of our weirdest and most beloved radio legends. Some want a mural, others dream of a statue—even if Pierre, for now, is still alive and broadcasting. (Philly Mag)
- Philadelphia Courts are now banning all smart/AI eyeglasses. Yes, really. As of yesterday, no Meta, no Ray-Ban Stories (or similar) allowed in city courtrooms. Don’t get fancy on jury duty. (NBC10)
- Bills to protect renters are finally moving forward in City Council. These would give more teeth to enforcement against sketchy landlords—coming on the heels of a lawsuit. If you rent in Philly, this could *actually* matter to you. (WHYY)
- Brace your wallet: PECO could hike your bill by $20/month in 2027. Not official yet, but if you thought the winter bills stung, just wait...
Getting Around
- Free Uber rides for seniors are expanding into Northeast Philly. If you (or your relatives) are 65+ and having trouble getting around, there’s a bigger coverage area now—and no more waiting on unreliable shuttles.
- Delaware River Bridge replacement got $600 million in federal funds. That means real work is coming on the bridge connecting Philly and Jersey, but brace for construction drama down the line. (Philly Voice)
Schools & Community
- Moffet Elementary in Kensington is slated to become a middle school— and the community is pushing back hard. The District says it’s about efficiency, but locals are asking the School Board to rethink the plan. (Philly Voice)
- Haverford College students want Lutnick’s name off their library, after links to the Epstein scandal. No official moves yet, but more pressure is piling up. (Philly Voice)
Sports & Culture
- RIP (again) to the Philadelphia Wings: The city’s pro box lacrosse team is out after this season. Sad to see them go, even if you never caught a game. (Philly Voice)
- ICYMI: The Eagles are signing edge rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and reportedly keeping A.J. Brown off the trade block, per Howie Roseman’s love fest with the media. (Philly Voice, NBC10)
- Franklin Fountain is selling ice cream that tastes like a charcuterie board. Yes, there’s an “experimental flavors” flight—and you can try it if you’re into brie, rosemary, and prosciutto in your cone. (Philly Voice)
- New, free concert series will bring local artists out on Philly weeknights, aiming to inject some life into the workweek. (Philly Voice)
That’s the big stuff. If you only read one newsletter on Philly today—hey, it should probably be this one. See you tomorrow.
