🇺🇸 Trump admin swaps slavery exhibit panels

President’s House Panels Replaced Under Cover of Night

Following the city's unsuccessful legal challenges, the Trump administration quietly swapped out panels referencing slavery with its own signage. Though slavery is still mentioned, the new ones broaden the history beyond the exhibit’s original intent. Mayor Parker said: “All of our history must be told.” [🔒 The Inquirer, X]

Get a Taste of Mexico Around Philly

With a growing Mexican population in the city and many former service workers opening their own restaurants for the first time, more chefs are using meals to tell their stories, create modern spins on traditional dishes, and expand understanding of what Mexican cuisine can be. Here are the restaurants leading the charge. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Reopened Dam Improves Water Quality in Manayunk Canal

The Philadelphia Water Department said the once putrid-smelling canal has significantly improved water quality since it reconnected to the Schuylkill River, which allowed fresh water to flow down for the first time since 1940. No more stagnation, algae blooms, or foul stenches during the summertime. [🔒 Chestnut Hill Local]

High Heat, Low Speeds on Philly’s Rails

Philly’s experiencing temps in the upper 90s (again) this week. If you plan to travel by train, both Amtrak and SEPTA will be reducing speeds on their lines to protect their tracks and overhead wires. Additionally several Amtrak trips have been canceled, and SEPTA anticipates heat-related issues. [NBC10]

With high temperatures becoming the norm this summer, we’re looking to stay cool. So what better way to beat the heat than with a scoop of chilly, delicious ice cream? National Ice Cream Day is on July 19, and several local ice cream shops have sweet treats (and even sweeter deals) to celebrate.

Bassett’s Ice Cream

45 N. 12th St.

Bassett’s is a family-owned business located inside the Reading Terminal Market. Originally opened in 1861, it’s the oldest operating ice cream company in the United States. Pick from over 30 ice cream flavors including coffee & cookies, Irish potato, and Moose Tracks. Vegan ice cream is available in cookies & cream, strawberry, and vanilla.

Stop by the Please Touch Museum on July 18 and get a free scoop.

Bredenbeck’s Bakery & Ice Cream Parlor

8126 Germantown Ave.

Bredenbeck’s first opened in Northern Liberties in 1889 and continues to make sweets at its current location in Chestnut Hill. Its ice cream shop is open daily, treating patrons to ice cream, sundaes, ice cream cakes, and water ice. On July 19, Bredenbeck’s is running a Buy One Get One special on cones, cups, and milkshakes.

Sunny Scoop

1812 E. Passyunk Ave.

This South Philly shop is celebrating its first anniversary on July 18, just in time for National Ice Cream Day. The first 50 customers who stop by will receive a free single scoop or cone. The Asian-inspired flavors include ube brownie, green tea matcha, and vegan Vietnamese coffee. The toppings feel endless, with choices like Pocky, boba, and mochi.

Thanks, Andry! Be sure to check out these other museums that are free year-round.

Do you like the recommendations sent in by our Neighbors? As members, they shine a light on the organizations and businesses they love in Philly. Members get other cool perks, too, like ad-free listening, a weekly events preview, and invites to member-only events (like the one coming up this month)!

Join the City Cast Philly team at the historic Wyck House and Garden on July 27. First, you have to become a member at $10 a month or $100 a year — then you’ll get access to this exclusive garden tour and picnic with our crew.