📵 Gov. Shapiro backs school cellphone ban

Shapiro Wants Phones Out of Classrooms

Gov. Shapiro posted on social media that he’s supporting a statewide ban on cellphone use in Pennsylvania schools, aligning with parents and educators who want to reduce classroom distractions. Twenty-three states have “bell-to-bell” phone bans in schools. A bill to do just that here is moving through the Pennsylvania legislature. [🔒The Inquirer, City Cast Philly]

Phil Predicts 6 More Weeks of Winter

The tens of thousands who witnessed Punxsutawney Phil spot his foretelling shadow in Gobbler’s Knob responded with a mix of cheers and boos after getting the adorable yet unwelcome news for those already exhausted by this season’s frigid temperatures. Thanks a lot, Phil! 🥹 [AP]

Affordable Tasting Menus, Restaurant Weeks, and Dinner Entertainment in Philly

Are you looking to zhuzh up your night out? Tired of just doing dinner and drinks? Need a special date idea for Valentine’s Day? On the City Cast Philly podcast, we’re talking with food contributor Alisha Miranda about the best Philly dining experiences that are more than just great food — think tasting menus and dining experiences that are coupled with jazz, opera, or interactive games. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Unrivaled Breaks Attendance Record

At last weekend’s Unrivaled women’s basketball doubleheader, 21,490 fans packed Xfinity Mobile Arena — an all-time attendance record for the arena during the first women’s professional basketball game in Philly in 28 years. Rose BC’s Kahleah Copper, a Philly native, hyped up the sold-out crowd before tip-off. She also took her teammates up to her old house in Norf Philly and said on social media that the Philly crowd reminded her “what community really looks like.” [WHYY; Instagram]

Small Businesses, Gig Workers Hit With Tax Burden

Philadelphia has ended Business Income and Receipt Tax exemptions, requiring over 50,000 small businesses, gig workers, and self-employed individuals to pay BIRT for the 2025 tax year. The city expects $35 million in new revenue from these filers. This is the first time in a decade that the city is requiring this type of tax. [Axios]