World

Heat wave prep; UArts hearing; Waterdogs fan fun

ADMIN 06/19/2024

The Philly area’s first heat wave of the summer is upon us and you probably have questions. Where can I get information about electricity outages or power impacts? When are Philly public pools and spraygrounds open? What are the health risks of extreme heat?

From extreme heat terminology to how to stay safe and cool despite soaring temps, here’s what you should know.

Residents of Reese Street in the Hunting Park Section of Philadelphia opened a fire hydrant during an intense heat wave on July 20, 2022. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

The Waterdogs lost both of its homecoming games in overtime, but Philly sports fans got a thrilling first taste of what their new Premier Lacrosse League team is about.

For those new to the sport, it can be hard to look away from the action as possession changes, big hits and goals happen so quickly. BP’s Nick Kariuki notes that many of the staple Philly traditions from other sports were brought during the games, like spelling out D-O-G-S like E-A-G-L-E-S and yelling “sucks” after each opponent’s name is listed out on the PA system. Continue reading…

AJ Kerrigan formed is the president of the Canine Crew, The Philadelphia Waterdogs’ supporters group. (Nick Kariuki/Billy Penn)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• Money for county coroners, initiatives connected to district attorney offices, media campaigns, and $7.5 million to support residents of Kensington are among the programs still awaiting review for final approval. [Spotlight PA]

• Philadelphia businesses have the same tax rate, but the tax burden for companies in the city vary, says a new Pew Charitable Trusts report. [WHYY]

• The latest UArts hearing discussed red flags before closure, former president Kerry Walk’s “unilateral” decision to close the school, a failed move to save it, and an accusation of ‘cowards’ on the board. [Inquirer$]

• Philly is ranked one of the world’s best places to found a startup, climbing to No. 25 globally. [Technical.ly]

• Residents suing over FDR Park tree clearing have accused a judge of potential bias, but at least one expert on judicial ethics said the connection is too indirect to require the judge to recuse herself. [WHYY]

• Now you can try Jason and Kylie Kelce’s preferred Wawa orders, which are among the “Classics” on the menu for this year’s Wawa Hoagiefest. [NBC10]

MAYOR WATCH

Mayor Parker will be at the Franklin Institute for the Philadelphia Education Fund’s annual benefit luncheon and master class at 11 a.m.

At 3 p.m., she’ll sign three public safety bills dealing with guns, speeding, and evictions at City Hall.

ON THE CALENDAR

🫶🏽 Tuesday, June 18: Spread Love Not Bullets
The Violence Awareness Symposium in Nicetown includes talks about impacts and prevention of violence, while the Prayer Walk unites voices in a demonstration of peace and hope. Free. (4:30 to 7 p.m.)

🎶 Thursday, June 20: Echoes of the Uptown: Bridging the Past, Present and Future of Philly Music
WHYY marks Black Music Month with a screening, panel discussion, and dance mixer highlighting the legacy of the Uptown Theater, Black music, and the importance of Black arts and culture institutions in Philadelphia. Free with registration. (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

🪇 Friday, June 21: Kidchella Music Festival
The free one-day family fun-day at Smith Memorial Playground returns as part of Wawa Welcome America. It includes art stations, treats, giveaways, and pre-concert activities. (4 to 9 p.m.)