City Cast Philly
🛣️ Chinatown Stitch is saved…for now
March 23, 2026 · — Siani Colón
It’s a new week! And we’re getting closer to the country’s 250th birthday. Philly has tons of festivals and block parties planned leading up to the big day that need vendors. If you are a local business interested in participating, sign up here.
What's CITY Talking About
The Debate Over Revamping Vacant Buildings
A developer has plans to revitalize Germantown Town Hall as a community space, giving the vacant space a purpose since its closure in 1998. But some residents are worried that plans for the three-story classical revival building are more empty promises. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Immigrants Transferred Far From Home
Over 12,000 immigrants were detained in facilities in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware within the first nine months of Trump’s second presidency, on average, being transported over 1,200 miles. With detainees far away from their immigration lawyers and support networks, attorneys say the distance is intended to break their resolve, making deportation easier. [🔒 The Inquirer]
- Related: DHS plans to open a “New ICE Philadelphia Mega Center” and “New ICE Philadelphia Processing Center” in Schuylkill and Berks counties. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Chinatown Stitch Moves Forward
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission reallocated $10 million to the Chinatown Stitch, allowing planners to complete the design. Organizers are working to win back the $150 million federal grant the project lost last year, which would cover the construction to reconnect Chinatown. [Billy Penn]
- Related: The neighborhood has experienced several fights to preserve the community. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
New Food Vendors and Specials at Citizens Bank Park
The Phillies are kicking off the new season this Thursday with an updated menu, including Sanchéz Sliders and a Schwarbomb Sundae. If you opt for ice cream, get multiple scoops. You can collect up to eight unique ice cream hats this year. [6ABC, @JeffKerrPHL via X]
- Related: Not everyone's happy about the changes. The Phillies are catching flak from fans for renaming stadium bar Harry the K's. The name honored late announcer Harry Kalas. [Philly Plain Dealer]
Donate Your Mice to Science...If You Can Catch It
Drexel University doctors are asking the public to donate dead mice caught in their homes. The specimens are for phase two of a research study analyzing the genetic differences between rural and urban mice. Caught one? Schedule a pickup here. [🔒 Philly Mag]
What To Do
Monday, March 23
- 🧘 Meditation Monday at One Art Community Center (Cathedral Park)
- 👖 Spring Equinox Clothing Swap at BUBS (Norris Square)
- 🛠️ Tools & Skills Workshop: Part One at West Philly Tool Library (Grays Ferry)
- 📣 Know Your Rights Training (RSVP for Location)
- 🎸 West Philly Blue Grass Jam at Abysinnia (Spruce Hill)
- 🎶 Rhythm Section at Margolis (Fishtown)
Tuesday, March 24
- 💬 Community Conversations: The Future of Philly Students at Germantown SDA Church (Germantown)
- 🎶 The Hangout at Velvet Whip Arts & Social Club (Callowhill)
- ✏️ The Writing Room at Iffy Books (Southwest Center City)
- 🫂 Empathy in Problem Solving 101 at Design Gym (Olde Kensington)
- 🍽️ National Cheesesteak Day at Pat’s King of Cheesesteaks (Passyunk Square)
- 🎸 Seminar: “Who Invented Rock ‘n’ Roll?” at Parkway Central Library (Logan Square)
🍼 Parents in need of baby supplies and hygiene products can now access them for free at these Community Care Kiosks.
Free · Daily