🏛️ DA Krasner is unopposed (for now)

🗓️ Year 2 With Mayor Cherelle Parker

• Mayor Cherelle Parker has wrapped up her first year as Philadelphia’s mayor. Under her leadership the city has seen a decrease in homicides, an increase in homelessness, the approval of the new Sixers arena, and efforts to end “Filthadelphia.”
• What can we expect in year two? Tune into today’s podcast for an in-depth look. [Axios, 🎧City Cast Philly]

⚖️ Kensington’s New Initiative

Kensington will soon be launching its “neighborhood wellness court.” Individuals arrested for low-level offenses, such as disorderly conduct and public intoxication, will have an opportunity for same-day adjudication of their cases. Using a more rehabilitative approach to justice, defendants will be given the choice to pursue drug treatment or face criminal penalties. [Kensington Voice]

🗣️ PA Speaker of the House Incumbent Set to Stay

State House Rep. Joanna McClinton of Philadelphia was reelected Speaker of the House despite a 101-101 Democrat/Republican deadlock. Republican House Minority Leader Jesse Topper withdrew his name from consideration in the second vote. [🔒 The Inquirer]

Join City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri as she walks down Ridge Avenue in Roxborough, where there are businesses of all kinds – some open for decades, others giving the neighborhood a new spirit.

I know it’s a little chilly out right now, but come spring it’s nice to surround your house with plants. High up on Ridge Avenue, R&R Produce and Garden Center is a great place to go if you’re looking for seasonal plants and shrubs.

Further down Ridge Avenue is Gorgas Park, the perfect spot to hang out when the sun is shining. Throughout the year you’ll see folks there hosting birthday parties and festivals. And right across the street is the Roxborough Library. Grab a book and read it at the park!

Stop for a coffee or tea at Flying Sowth. When Trenae visited, she chatted with the barista about Roxborough while sipping a hot coffee with oat milk and cinnamon maple syrup. There are plenty of tables here to open your laptop and get some work done. A few doors down at Cafe Roma Bakery, a family business operating for the last 40 years, there’s cheese danishes, muffins, and cannolis. Just make sure to bring cash!

Across the street is New Ridge Brewing Company – the place to be on Ridge Avenue for happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Right next door is Santucci’s Pizza, which many call the area's best pizza. Would you agree?

The sign outside of Lennies Hoagies says, “The Original South Philly Hoagie” – so Trenae knew she had to stop in. She ordered the Talkin’ Turkey hoagie, which comes with spicy Santa Fe turkey, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, oil, and seasoning. BlacOak Tasting Room & Wine Bar is right around the corner, and the perfect place to unwind after work. Learn about the Black-owned wine brands and curated events on its social pages.

On the corner of Ridge Avenue and Dupont Street is Roxyhall Island Cuisine. This venue is often used for Philly creatives, hosting a number of events like "Last Sunday" – an open mic night. They also serve food.

Got a pet that needs grooming? Paw Prints Professional Grooming in Roxborough is the place for both large and small pets. And maybe you get a little hungry while your pet gets groomed? Bob’s Diner is a family-owned restaurant that has been around for decades. The coolest part? It operates out of an old railroad dining car. With booths and a counter to eat at, it truly feels like a classic diner experience. And they serve breakfast all day (I looooove breakfast for dinner)! This spot is cash only, but they have an ATM inside.

Stanley’s Hardware has you covered for your gardening and home repair needs. Across the street is Eremita Cafe, with plenty of board games to keep you, and the kids, occupied.

A neighborhood guide wouldn’t be complete without an ice cream shop. At C&C Creamery there’s a drive-thru – so you don’t even need to get out of the car. Trenae’s go-to order is chocolate cookie dough on a waffle cone with rainbow jimmies. Unfortunately, C&C doesn't open until February.