City Cast Philly
🇺🇸 Federal judge orders reinstallation of slavery exhibit
February 17, 2026 · — Siani Colón
Forget about Shane and Ilya. Pennsylvania has its own heated rivalry: Wawa vs. Sheetz. There's been a longstanding debate between Eastern and Western Pennsylvanians over which chain is better. But recently several Wawas have closed in Philly, and Sheetz is starting to encroach on the Philly area.
Does Wawa still love us? Or better yet, do we even like Wawa anymore?
What's CITY Talking About
Judge Orders Slavery Exhibit Restored, Bars Replacement Panels
Protesters gathered for an annual Presidents Day rally at the President’s House erupted in cheers upon learning of U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe’s ruling. Evoking George Orwell’s “1984,” Rufe said the federal government does not have the power to “dissemble and disassemble historical truths” and ordered the panels to be restored. The Trump administration is expected to appeal. [Associated Press]
Don’t Expect To See Any ‘Krasner for Mayor’ Signs
Despite speculation that District Attorney Larry Krasner could be vying for the top job in Philadelphia, the man himself swept aside those rumors. Krasner emphasized unity and said in a statement: “There’s nothing new about insiders stirring things up to benefit themselves at the expense of everyone else.” [🔒 The Inquirer]
- Related: We still have time until we start seeing campaign ads for mayor, but this year all eyes are on the primary for Rep. Dwight Evans’ congressional seat. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Pennsylvania To Require Schools To Teach Cursive
Don’t lift your pen off the page. Gov. Shapiro signed a cursive curriculum requirement into law, his admittedly “rusty” penmanship notwithstanding. Despite handwritten documents falling by the wayside in the digital era, lawmakers behind the bill said the writing technique can build fine motor skills and is important for signing legal papers. [KYW]
Home Care Workers Feeling Left Out of Shapiro’s Budget Plan
While the governor’s $53.3 billion budget proposal called for stipends and bonuses for educators and childcare workers, home care professionals are “extremely disappointed” that it doesn’t include higher wages for themselves. [Spotlight PA]
The Fellowship for Black Artists Showcases Creatives
Looking for something to do this week? The Ubuntu Art Gallery is displaying the work of Mural Arts’ fellows. The program is designed to support emerging artists by fostering industry connections and providing a platform for their work. The exhibition runs until Feb. 28. [Germantown Info Hub]
- Related: Here are other small galleries supporting artists across the city. [📝 City Cast Philly]
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What To Do
Tuesday, Feb. 17
- 🍲 Lunar New Year Hot Pot Party at the Bread Room (Center City)
- 🏠 Creative Kickback: Housing Journeys II at the Writers Room (University City)
- 💰 State Budget 101 with the Committee of Seventy (Online)
- 🛠️ The Economic Impact of Historic Preservation at Carpenters' Hall (Old City)
- ❓ Jeopardy! Bar League at Misconduct Tavern (Logan Square)
- ♿ Ramp Up Philly at Old City Kava (Old City)
Wednesday, Feb. 18
- 📖 Tofu: A Culinary History at the Science History Institute (Old City)
- 🎙️ Truth in Audio Storytelling at Kelly Writers House (University City)
- 🎶 Lunar New Year Karaoke Happy Hour at Asian Arts Initiative (Callowhill)
- 🍷 An Aquarius Wine Tasting at Jet Wine Bar (Graduate Hospital)
- 🚲 Wednesday Night Bike Ride beginning at Jefferson Square Park (Pennsport)
🎷 Philly Jazz Month is coming up in April. The city is accepting applications from musicians, civic leaders, arts and cultural organizations, and event producers who need financial support to celebrate jazz. Applications close tomorrow.
Free · Daily