🚧 William Penn statue controversy

🚧 William Penn Statue Staying Put After All

The National Park Service reversed its decision to permanently remove a William Penn statue during renovations to an Old City park, after the announcement ignited controversy. Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro joined Republican leadership in Pennsylvania in criticizing the proposed removal. The NPS says it it is otherwise moving forward with plans to rehabilitate the park. [Inquirer 🔒]

• ➡️ The NPS is seeking public comment on its renovation plans.
• Related: Why Did Rocky Balboa Get a Statue? [City Cast Philly]

📈 Rise in Shigella Cases

The Philadelphia Department of Health is monitoring a spike in a bacterial infection known as Shigella, which causes gastrointestinal symptoms. Reported cases rose from around 10 per month to 68 total in October and November of last year, and are primarily affecting vulnerable populations like residents experiencing homelessness. The infection is typically spread from person-to-person after ingesting small amounts of fecal matter, often through contaminated food and water, sexual contact, and changing diapers. [Axios Philly]

🏆 It’s Always Golden in Philadelphia

Philly’s own Da’Vine Joy Randolph picked up the Golden Globe award for best supporting actress for her performance in “The Holdovers.” Randolph plays Mary Brown, a school cafeteria chef grieving the loss of her son in the Vietnam war — a character that she says changed her life. “I hope you find your inner Mary. There is a little of her in all of us,” Randolph said during her acceptance speech. [Inquirer]

🚌 SEPTA Eyeing Service Cuts

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority faces a financial crisis after a requested $190 million increase in state funding was omitted from the Pennsylvania budget. With annual operating deficits of $240 million projected beginning July 1, SEPTA is considering service cuts and fare increases unless political leaders can secure additional funding. [Inquirer]

♻️ Reducing Responsibly

With the new year comes new goodies, but are you supposed to do with your old stuff? We spoke to Circular Philadelphia’s Nic Esposito about how to responsibly recycle and dispose of your old items. [City Cast Philly 🎧]

Need to clean out your house to make room for some holiday presents? Or just want to get a fresh start — with less stuff — this new year? We've got your guide to responsibly getting rid of unwanted items from furniture to electronics to clothes. Host Trenae Nuri spoke with the director of policy & engagement at Circular Philadelphia, Nic Esposito, about where to take your stuff so that it can have a second life.