💉 New COVID-19 vaccines headed to Philly

🏠 Eviction System Makeover?

This fall, Philly lawmakers plan to introduce a legislative package seeking to overhaul the Landlord and Tenant Office (LTO). A series of shootings involving LTO contractors prompted safety and equity updates from the office. But state Rep. Rick Krajewski told WHYY that the current system remains an active threat to tenants. Lawmakers want to establish stricter eviction protocols and mandated on-site mental health professionals during lockouts, among other major changes. [WHYY]

• Why does Philly handle evictions this way? [City Cast Philly 🎧]

💉 New COVID-19 Vaccines

Following a rise in cases and hospitalizations in the city, updated COVID-19 vaccines are on the way to Philly. The recommended dosage varies by age and health status, but experts advise everyone over six months of age to get the vaccine. The new Pfizer and Moderna shots will soon be available at local pharmacies and health clinics. [Axios Philadelphia]

🏫 Potential School District Strike

Nearly 2,000 members of Local 634, the union representing School District of Philadelphia cafeteria workers and climate staffers, plan to strike if the district refuses to “do better” with collective bargaining. Many union members fail to qualify for health insurance due to short shifts, and rely on multiple jobs to cover basic living costs. In a statement, spokesperson Monique Braxton said the school district is “optimistic” that both parties will reach an agreement at the bargaining table. [Inquirer 🔒]

When y’all fill up our inbox, it lights up our hearts. Here’s what our cherished Hey Philly readers had to say about recent newsletter segments and City Cast Philly episodes:

Thanks to Stef A. for sharing another noteworthy Mt. Airy resident after reading our recent neighborhood guide:

• “Sandra Boynton is a former resident who’s revered in the parenting world, she’s a children's author of faves like ‘Moo, Baa, La La La’ and ‘The Going to Bed Book’. She also wrote the lesser known but super fabulous ‘Philadelphia Chickens’ book and the accompanying album.” 📖

We got at least one of you interested in the fastest growing sport in America! “I just signed up to play pickleball! Thanks for the idea.” You are welcome, Caitlin L. 🏓

Last week, I questioned whether Philly is bike-friendly. S/O to Lisa H. for sharing their perspective 🚲

• “After moving here from NYC, I find using the Indego bikes a fantastic way to get around. Philly is much less dense (fewer pedestrians and traffic of all sorts). I feel very comfortable riding here. Quick way to get around. Plus, a little exercise.”
• But really, is Philly a bike-friendly city? Take a ride with us as we explore this topic! 🎧

Hanna P. sent us this photo of a BigBelly trash can that was destroyed in her neighborhood, following a recent City Cast Philly episode exploring the pros and cons of this sanitation device. “I now know that this trash can costs $6,000.” Major yikes 🗑️

Keep the commentary flowing, please 💌

😆 Comedy | Tuesday | 8:30 p.m.

Join Raven Lounge for a show where you pick the topics and comics deliver the punchlines. Submit the best topic and you could win a prize. [$5, Gayborhood]

💃🏼 Drag Trivia | Wednesday | 6 p.m.

“Ew, David!” Take a trip to Ambler’s Gypsy Blu for drag performances and Schitt’s Creek trivia. [$17.85, Ambler]

🌇 Sunset Jam | Wednesday | 7 p.m.

The Divine Lorraine Hotel is bringing you live poetry and dance performances, featuring Marcos de la Fuenta and Peter Webb. [$5-$10, North Philly]

🎊 Night Market | Thursday | 6 p.m.

Head to Frankford & Cottman Avenue for local vendors, delicious food and drinks, a bounce house for the kiddos, and more. [pay-as-you-go, Mayfair]

How Philly Is Trying To Make Pregnancy Safer

Philadelphia is trying something new to address severe pregnancy complications. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Dr. Aasta Mehta, OB/GYN and medical officer of women’s health at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, about a first-in-the-nation program to monitor complications in real-time, in order to figure out how to prevent them. And, they share some resources for anyone who needs more support during a pregnancy.