City Cast Philly
🗳️ Will Mural Arts’ founder be your next council member?
July 15, 2026 · — Siani Colón
That’s a wrap! All-Star Week officially concluded last night with a 4-0 win for the American League, which took an early lead in the first inning. Despite the disappointing loss for the Phillies and National League, the night was filled with highlights, including a Sandlot-inspired fireworks show. As for the Home Run Derby, our own Kyle Schwarber fell just short of securing the title, losing to the Cardinals’ Jordan Walker on a final swing.
That’s not the end of Philly’s sporty summer. The Philadelphia Cycling Classic, UFC Fighting Championship, and women’s tennis Ennoble Care Philly Open are coming up in August.
What's CITY Talking About
What State Lawmakers Are Still Arguing About
Pennsylvania lawmakers passed a $50.8 billion budget over the weekend, just 12 days past its deadline and saving us a repeat of last year’s four-month delay. While a new budget is a relief, legislators still aren’t done squabbling over issues like whether to allow gambling-like machines at your corner store. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
From Mural Arts Founder to City Council Member?
With all 17 council seats up for grabs in 2027, some incumbents are bracing for serious challenges for their jobs. Progressives are hoping to oust Councilmembers Jeffery Young Jr., Mark Squilla, and Cindy Bass. As for the at-large seat? Insiders are tossing retiring Mural Arts executive director Jane Golden’s name out there as a potential candidate. [🔒 The Inquirer]
- Related: We looked back on Jane Golden’s career and her impact on Philadelphia in a sit-down interview with the iconic Philadelphian. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Microbursts Devastated Southeast Asian Market. Now What?
Saturday’s strong winds and flooding left significant damage in Southwest, West, and South Philadelphia, including at FDR Park’s Southeast Asian Market. Organizers are collecting donations to support vendors who lost equipment and inventory due to the storm and are struggling to recover. [Billy Penn]
- Related: What to know about last weekend’s microbursts. [📝 City Cast Philly]
Why Philly Shootings Are Getting Solved More Quickly
Killings in Philadelphia have declined since a spike during the COVID pandemic, which has given detectives more time to investigate each incident that does happen. Officials also cite advanced technology and tips from community members for the improvement in the rate of solving shootings. [The Trace]
- Related: With homicides at historic lows, 2026 is shaping up to be Philly’s safest year. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Philadelphia Faces Setback in Court Over President’s House
A federal judge dismissed most of the city’s claims as it continues to challenge the Trump Administration over its removal of panels referencing slavery at the President’s House. It’s unknown whether the city will take further action, nor when the replacement panels will appear at the site. [Fox29]
- Related: This follows another legal setback just a few weeks ago. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Sponsored Content
Union Soccer: Your First Match On Us!
The beautiful game has taken over Philly! But the fun doesn’t end when the World Cup is over. The Philadelphia Union return to play on 7/22 vs. rivals Red Bull New York. If you’ve never been to a game, now is your chance! Fill out the form and pick your game. If you have been to a game, enter for a chance to win VIP tickets to see Messi and Miami 8/19 at Subaru Park.
Where Is It?
We’re back with another “Where Is It?” challenge, our game where you name the location of street art and landmarks around the city.
Do you recognize where this piece is? Here’s a hint: This artwork is part of a series scattered around a Philly neighborhood that’s referenced in the painting.
What To Do
Wednesday, July 15
- ☕ Coffee & Community at Drexel Writers Room (University City)
- 🎷 Drop-In Jam Session at The Rotunda (University City)
- 🚣 Open Boating at Glen Foerd (Torresdale)
- 🎣 Free Fishing at Bartram's Garden (Kingsessing)
- 🧶 Beginner Tufting Workshop at Bok (South Philly)
- 📚 Slow Living Support Group at Iffy Books (Southwest Center City)
Thursday, July 16
- 🎨 Mom Night: Printing with Foliage at Freehand Art Supply (Fishtown)
- 🛍️ Third Thursdays at Chapel Plaza (Navy Yard)
- 📚 "Living, Together" Book Launch Party & Potluck at Philadelphia Ethical Society (Rittenhouse)
- 🧵 Contemporary Tapestry Exhibition Opening at The Fabric Workshop and Museum (Center City)
- 🎨 Make Your Own WPA Poster at Parkway Central Library (Logan Square)
- 🤡 Philly Clown Slam at Studio 34 (Cedar Park)
- 🎸 Summer Jam at Settlement Music School (Queen Village)
🏙️ We know the origins of Philly’s name, but what about the quirky towns scattered around Pennsylvania? Here’s how we got places like “Jersey Shore” and “Rough and Ready.”
👏 Thank you to Jung K. for becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor! Welcome to the neighborhood. We hope to see you at our upcoming event. Want to know more about it and how to attend? Become a member today!
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