🏫 School communities push back against closures

Library Workers Operating Warming Centers Are Overwhelmed

The Free Library branches have been serving as a refuge to the city’s most vulnerable populations during the harsh winter season, but workers say they are ill-equipped to handle those experiencing mental health crises and struggling with substance abuse. [🔒 The Inquirer]

Schools Across Philadelphia Fight To Stay Open

Students, families, and community members have been packing feedback sessions on the school district’s facilities master plan in a desperate attempt to keep their schools open. Attendees have concerns about the closures and restructuring affecting dozens of schools, with worries about safety as displaced students join students from different neighborhoods, the loss of unique programming, and how this could hasten disinvestment in neighborhoods. [School District of Philadelphia, Chalkbeat]

From DA to Mayor Krasner?

We may not be voting for mayor this year, but that hasn’t stopped the murmurings about who is likely to run in 2027. Mayor Parker’s likely going for another term, but as for potential challengers some are floating our district attorney’s name. While Larry Krasner may be a popular pick for some progressives, his occasionally tense relationship with law enforcement could pose a problem. Krasner’s keeping quiet about any potential run. [🎧 City Cast Philly, Axios]

Move Over, Rocky. Make Way for Smokin’ Joe

The Philadelphia Art Commission approved a proposal to move a statue honoring Philly boxing legend “Smokin’” Joe Frazier from South Philly to the base of the Art Museum, with new panels detailing his ties to the city. Meanwhile the Rocky Balboa statue custody battle between the city and Sylvester Stallone has ended, with Stallone agreeing to take the replica currently at the top of the steps as the original at the base moves to the top. [CBS Philly]

📣 City Cast Philly Neighbor Virginia W. is shouting out the Athenaeum of Philadelphia! The private library was founded in 1814 and overlooks Washington Square. Programs for members and nonmembers include movie nights, philosophy talks, and language exchanges. She highly recommends it for fellow bookworms.