World

SEPTA talks what-ifs; WNBA in Philly?; Weekend events

ADMIN 10/04/2024

This summer, the thought was the regional transit agency’s $240 million budget deficit would be addressed by the state in September. It’s October, and that hasn’t happened. Why not? Will it? Where would the money come from? And what happens if it doesn’t? BP’s Meir Rinde provides some guidance. Continue reading …

Billy Penn turns 10 this year. We hope you’ll join us at the WHYY studios to enjoy free food and drink, celebrate the past decade through our Billie awards, and meet the team and each other. Register here!

Women’s sports fans are excited about the possibility of a WNBA team in Philadelphia — and torn that the issue has been attached to the placement of a new basketball arena in Center City. Where do they stand? BP’s Nick Kariuki asked. Continue reading …

a map shows the plan for the arena — Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker announces the details of the city’s agreement with the Philadelphia 76ers to build an arena in Center City. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

RECAP: What else happened?

$ = paywalled

• Members of PA-TF1 are stationed in Marion, North Carolina, where they are conducting search and rescue missions. Volunteer pilots from Pa. are also delivering aid to the hurricane-ravaged state in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. [WHYY/CBS3]

• In a Pa. attorney general debate, Democratic candidate Eugene DePasquale and Republican Dave Sunday sparred over experience. [PennLive]

• Opioid trust ruling favors Kensington schools, parks, and housing relief, not home repairs or small businesses. [Kensington Voice]

• Burglars broke into the SS United States, the historic ocean liner docked at a South Philly pier, stealing batteries and tools and causing damage to the ship, which is tentatively slated to be turned into the world’s largest artificial reef in Florida. [6ABC]

• Lightbox Film Center found a new home at the Bok Building after being cast adrift by UArts’ closure. It returns with weekly screenings. [WHYY]

• Simone Biles is coming to the Wells Fargo Center for the Gold Over America Tour. [WHYY]

• “Abbott Elementary” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” teased a crossover episode on social media. [CBS3]

MAYOR WATCH

12 p.m.: Mayor Parker will deliver remarks at the annual flag-raising ceremony honoring LGBTQ+ History Month and National Coming Out Day.

1 p.m.: The mayor will join Councilmember Anthony Phillips, state Representative Anthony Bellmon, city officials, and community members to celebrate a $23.4 million investment at Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Ave.

ON THE CALENDAR

⏳ Saturday, Oct. 5: West Philly’s Main Street: A Walk Through Time
The 52nd Street stroll and talk, led by All That Philly Jazz Director Faye Anderson, will uncover the Strip’s hidden past as an entertainment destination for African Americans, uncovering hidden landmarks and revisiting forgotten stories and iconic figures. Begins at Malcolm X Park. $25 tickets. (10 a.m.)

🐐 Saturday, Oct. 5: GOAToberfest
The Philly Goat Project provides free therapy and wellness via its herd of goats. Host Dominique Lee presides over the event that awards the best Halloween or Oktoberfest costume, goodie bags and a tour of Laurel Hill Cemetery. $75 tickets. (3 to 5 p.m.)

🐅 Saturday, Oct. 5: Zoo Done It
A scavenger hunt and murder mystery await at the Philly Zoo, where guests follow clues provided by “former” residents, either in teams or as individuals. The grand prize winner receives tickets to the Red Rum Theater and a behind-the-scenes tour with friends of the zoo. $50 to $75 tickets. (5 to 9 p.m.)

🌎 Sunday, Oct. 6: Environmental Justice Resource Fair
Head to FDR Park’s gazebo to learn how to go green and access resources, including help with energy bills. A limited number of yard trees are available, first-come, first-served! RSVP for free. (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

🌈 Through Sunday, Oct. 6: Out & About Festival in MNYK
Enjoy a variety of LGBTQ+-friendly entertainment and wellness events, including Saturday “Rocky Horror Picture Show” performances, a free drag show, a Queer Run, marching band, and Sunday’s Yoga Nidra relaxation class.

🎨 Through Sunday, Oct. 13: DesignPhiladelphia
Now in its 20th year, Philly’s annual design festival brings creatives, designers and makers from all over the globe to share talents at multiple events at several locations. Various prices and locations.