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  • 🌸 The insider’s guide to the Flower Show | Things to do

    🌸 The insider’s guide to the Flower Show | Things to do

    I don’t know about you, but I’m counting the days until spring fully blooms in Philadelphia. I can’t wait to enjoy the cherry blossoms along Kelly Drive, take down some Hatfield Franks on BOGO Nights at the Phillies, and hang on the rooftop at Bok Bar.

    For now, I’m offering a list of spring-esque events happening around the region like the Philadelphia Flower Show (more on that below), a new Egyptian exhibition, and the return of our favorite soccer club this weekend.

    Kickstart your weekend plans, Philly style.

    — Earl Hopkins (@earlhopkins_, Email me at thingstodo@inquirer.com)

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    Orchids adorn a Volkswagon Beetle as finishing touches are placed on the 12th annual Chicago Botanic Garden Orchid Show, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, in Glencoe, Ill. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

    Your guide to the Philadelphia Flower Show

    The annual Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) Philadelphia Flower Show, which is the oldest and largest horticultural event in the world, returns to the Convention Center on Saturday and runs through March 8.

    This year’s theme is “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening.”

    There will be floral displays, flower competitions, and more than 200 vendors offering a curated selection of live plants, florals, garden tools, decorative wares, and more. We have you covered with everything you need to know about attending, including schedule, tickets, parking, food, exhibits, and more.

    The best things to do this week

    🎭 A scene at-random: InterAct Theatre Company’s latest production, Plantation Black, directed by Kimille Howard, is an explorative Civil War era story with a twist. Each night, a cast member spins a drum bearing names of all the production’s scenes, and then the play begins at a different point in the timeline. The play runs through Sunday.

    🇲🇽 New eats in East Market: In the latest of Center City restaurant openings, East Market welcomes Mi Vida. The upscale Mexican player out of Washington D.C. opened next to Mom’s Organic Market on 1150 Ludlow St.

    🟦 Blue Men in motion: The Blue Man Group returns to Philly with a brand-new show featuring fresh music, immersive visuals, and audience interactions. Experience the Blue Man magic at Miller Theater through Sunday.

    📅 My calendar picks this week: Bella Village Restaurant Week, “No Solace in the Shade” at Brandywine Museum of Art, The Harlem Globetrotters at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

    Cavan Sullivan on the ball during the Philadelphia Union’s Major League Soccer (MLS) game against D.C. United at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

    The thing of the week: Our favorite soccer club is back in the Philly area this week

    The Philadelphia Union returns to Subaru Park for the club’s first two home match-ups of the season.

    First, the Union goes head-to-head with Trinidad & Tobago’s Defence Force SC on Thursday to close out the second leg of the team’s first round series in the Concacaf Champions Cup. The winner of the series will play Liga MX’s Club América in the Round of 16.

    On Sunday, the Union faces New York City FC in the team’s Major League Soccer season home opener. The club will look to regain momentum after losing 0-1 to D.C. United last week.

    For updates on Philly’s premiere soccer club, read here.

    Winter fun this week and beyond

    🍺 Toast to state brews: The Philly Beer Fest will feature 30 of the state’s top breweries, including Triple Bottom Brewing, Urban Village Brewing Company, and Evil Genius Beer Company, at the 23rd Armory this Saturday.

    🎭 Fears, hopes, and secrets: The dark comedy, A Delicate Balance, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Edward Albee, explores how long-time friends wrestle with an unexplained fear on an equally unexpected night. The production will run through March 29 at Walnut Street Theatre.

    🏳️‍🌈 A new hub for LGBTQ visitors: The Philly Pride Visitor Center is officially open in Midtown Village. The center, located next to Knock Bar & Restaurant, offers souvenirs, attraction ticketing, and itinerary planning with an emphasis on LGBTQ and ally businesses and destinations.

    🎨 Ancient Egypt in color: The new exhibition, “Ancient Egypt in Watercolors at the Penn Museum,” opens on Saturday. Visitors can peek inside the limited-time exhibition to see decorated funerary chapels of high-ranking Egyptian officials and priests, 100-year-old watercolors, 3,500-year-old bread loaves, and nearly 60 other rarely-seen artifacts.

    The take

    We sent two reporters to R&D to find out whether a cocktail menu inspired by Philly lore, from HitchBOT to the Crum Bum, actually works in a glass. The verdict: a lot of these drinks sound weird on paper, but they’re surprisingly balanced, thoughtful, and very Philly.

    What makes the menu land isn’t just the inside jokes or the J-A-W-N ingredient challenge. It’s that the bartenders treated the city’s stories like serious prompts and built drinks that taste good first, gimmick second. Go with friends, split a few, and don’t skip the pretzels.

    Staffer picks

    Pop music critic Dan DeLuca lists the top concerts this weekend.

    🎤 Thursday: Legendary singer and civil rights activist Mavis Staples will take the stage at the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville. The 86-year-old vocalist, who’s latest output Sad and Beautiful World offers a collection of soulful and deeply moving records, will be joined by Massachusetts singer-guitarist Kimaya Diggs as her opener.

    🎸 Friday: Singer-songwriter Matt Butler conducts two nights of improvised music from a cast of leading musicians from the jam band world, including Dave Matthews’ associate Tim Reynolds, Aron Magner of the Disco Biscuits, Rob Mercurio of Galactic, Camden trumpeter Arnetta Johnson, and others at Ardmore Music Hall starting Friday.

    🎸 Saturday: Sheer Mag, the mighty Philly foursome that recently dropped 2024’s Playing Favoritues, will top a four-band bill at Johnny Brenda’s.

    🎸 Tuesday: A double bill headlined by Ratboys, the Chicago quartet fronted by Julia Steiner, will be well-matched with Philly-bred, loose-limbed collective, Florry. The two bands will join forces at First Unitarian Church on Tuesday.

    Explore the PHS Flower Show’s lush landscapes, grab some Pennsylvania-made brews, or catch the Union score a win at Subaru Park.

    Whatever you do, be sure to take in the early spring air and events happening this weekend. And expect to see more spring-related suggestions in future newsletters, especially as the season fully blooms in the region.

    — Earl Hopkins

    Courtesy of Giphy.com
  • Mixed PHA tenant reviews | Real Estate Newsletter

    Mixed PHA tenant reviews | Real Estate Newsletter

    The Philadelphia Housing Authority is the city’s largest provider of affordable housing. But last year, the agency started buying private-sector apartment buildings where tenants paid market-rate rents.

    It’s part of PHA’s new strategy to add to the city’s affordable housing supply.

    The first building PHA bought under this plan is in West Philly and has 233 apartments. Some tenants pay the going rate, and some get help from government subsidies.

    But the transition to PHA ownership hasn’t been smooth, tenants told my colleague. They laid out potential challenges within PHA’s new model.

    Keep scrolling for that story and more in this week’s edition:

    — Michaelle Bond

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    Mixed tenant reviews

    Tenants keep leaving The Dane, the apartment building in Wynnefield that the Philadelphia Housing Authority took over last year.

    They say conditions have gotten better since the switch in ownership. But they’re still dealing with things like pest outbreaks and a garage door that breaks down.

    Tenants say the transition to PHA ownership has been challenging. But PHA’s new strategy to expand the city’s affordable housing supply relies on transitioning buildings like The Dane.

    In the last 14 months, PHA has spent $280.6 million for a total of 17 multifamily properties across the city. All together, that’s 1,515 apartments.

    In most of them, tenants are paying the going rate.

    But PHA wants to fill the buildings with tenants who use housing vouchers to cover a chunk of the rent. It plans to keep renting some apartments at the market rate, and those units will help pay operating expenses.

    Keep reading to learn more about PHA’s plans and some of the pain points that have popped up at The Dane.

    Same price but very different sizes

    And now it’s time for Price Point, the series in which I compare local homes on the market for about the same price.

    This time, I looked for homes for sale for about $760,000, which is twice the median sale price in the Philly region last month.

    I was excited to feature these three homes because even though they’re priced similarly, they vary significantly in size.

    The Upper Dublin Township home is roughly 1,000 square feet larger than the Riverton, Burlington County, home, which is roughly 1,000 larger than the home in Chestnut Hill.

    Two were built more than a century ago. One was built in the ‘80s. The homes have varying outdoor spaces, design styles, and numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms.

    Peek inside these homes for sale and see what roughly $765,000 can buy you in three local communities.

    The latest news to pay attention to

    Home tour: Old is new in Center City

    In 2020, Amy Slater and Mark Silow didn’t know exactly what they were looking for as they walked the streets of Center City and looked for inspiration in other people’s homes.

    But they’d know when they found it, they said. And that’s exactly what happened when they saw a home on Rittenhouse Square with a style they loved.

    They left a note for the owners asking for the name of the home’s architect.

    Their boldness paid off. They got the name and an invitation to come over.

    That started the couple’s journey to update the home where they’d lived since 1989. On their wish list? More natural light, a new kitchen, and a new roof with a deck.

    Slater and Silow made those renovations and more.

    Peek inside the home they call their “new old house.”

    📷 Photo quiz

    Do you know the location this photo shows?

    📮 If you think you do, email me back. You and your memories of visiting this spot might be featured in the newsletter.

    Shout-out to Tim G., Maria D., Don L. and Anna-Marie S. for knowing that last week’s quiz featured a photo of the steps to the El station at 8th and Market Streets.

    Anna-Marie and Don both said they recognized the steps from their former commutes. Up until a few years ago, The Inquirer office was across the street, which is why I know those steps, too.

    Enjoy the rest of your week.

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

  • 🚙 Courtesy tows to get the boot? | Morning Newsletter

    🚙 Courtesy tows to get the boot? | Morning Newsletter

    Hey there, Philly.

    After a yearslong legal battle, the city tentatively agreed to start requiring tow truck drivers to keep track of where they leave vehicles, signaling a fix to the long-maligned “courtesy tow” problem.

    And a suburban office park in Chester County is getting converted to apartments. Is it a sign of things to come?

    Plus, we asked you where South and Central Jersey start. The results are in.

    — Julie Zeglen (morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

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    ‘A due-process violation’

    Have you ever felt bewildered after your car went missing from its legal parking spot, only to be found blocks away, thanks to a towing company that never bothered to let you or police know they were moving it? Maybe you’ve even had to pay to get your vehicle back from the Parking Authority lot after it was moved to a no-parking zone and towed again?

    🚙 Congratulations: You’ve been the victim of so-called courtesy towing, a very Philly problem.

    🚙 After a protracted legal battle in federal court, reform of the maddening practice may be on the way: Lawyers for the city have tentatively agreed to require tow truck drivers who participate in its vehicle relocation program to keep track of where they unhook them.

    🚙 The settlement agreement will also pay $750,000 to 36 courtesy-tow victims.

    🚙 As of Wednesday evening, a judge still needs to approve the court settlement.

    Reporter William Bender, who has been tracking the courtesy-tow saga for years, has the story — including tales from towing hell.

    Suburban conversion

    Several former office buildings in downtown Philadelphia are being converted for residential use as housing demand increases and workspace demand decreases. A high-profile case is the historic Wanamaker Building, where 600 loft apartments will be constructed in former office and retail areas.

    But the suburbs have been lagging in replacing vacant offices with housing, due in part to architectural challenges — their developers tended to build out, not up, which means lots of dark interior space — as well as hyperlocal zoning regulations and remote locations.

    One new project, a sprawling office complex in Tredyffrin Township that will become 162 apartments, indicates that could be changing. It helps that its buildings aren’t big glass boxes, leaders say.

    Commercial real estate reporter Jake Blumgart has more.

    What you should know today

    Plus: The lines are drawn

    As we noted here last month, South and Central Jersey are nebulous concepts. For one: Does Central Jersey even exist?

    📍 We asked readers to draw a line where they believed each section starts. Factors that influenced their lines included highways — say, I-195 — and area codes.

    📍 And on that existential question, 74% said yes, Central Jersey is real. But they strongly disagreed on where it is.

    See the full map, based on thousands of reader suggestions.

    In other Jersey news: Attorney General Jennifer Davenport marked her first official day in the office exchanging lawsuits with the Trump administration.

    🧠 Trivia time

    The latest Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominations were announced on Wednesday. Which Philly-tied musical act has never been nominated?

    A) Lauryn Hill

    B) Chubby Checker

    C) Pink

    D) The Roots

    Think you know? Check your answer.

    What we’re …

    🦪 Congratulating: Oyster House for its America’s Classics Award win from the James Beard Foundation.

    🌈 Visiting: Philly’s new LGBTQ+ visitor center, one of few in the country.

    🐴 Trying to adopt: One of 30 miniature horses up for sale in Gettysburg.

    ☕ Standing in line for: Powelton’s buzzy new Yemeni coffee shop.

    📖 Considering: How Black History Month teaches us to learn from our past, flaws and all.

    🧩 Unscramble the anagram

    Hint: Historic Germantown _ Meetinghouse

    NO EMINENT

    Email us if you know the answer. We’ll select a reader at random to shout out here.

    Cheers to Keyana Kutney, who solved Wednesday’s anagram: Pennsport. The development group behind a 36-story apartment tower planned for the Delaware River-adjacent neighborhood secured a $150 million construction loan and plans to break ground next year.

    Photo of the day

    Brendan McClanahan (from left) of Havertown; Evan Chester of Southampton; Clay Herron of Dover, Del.; Edwin Roth of Conshohocken; and Joe Geibler of Folsom have a spirited exchange during a Scrabble group meetup at Riddle Village in Media on Feb. 12.

    🟫 One last wordy thing: Feeling competitive? Go inside the Delco Scrabble Club, a home for the thriving local Scrabble scene including some of the best players in the country.

    Enjoy the rest of your Thursday. I’ll be back with you tomorrow morning to close out the week in news.

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

  • Tired Hands reenvisions Ardmore Brewing Company | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Tired Hands reenvisions Ardmore Brewing Company | Inquirer Lower Merion

    Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

    Tired Hands Brewing Company is making some changes to one of its Ardmore locations. Here’s what to know. Also this week, we’re following the latest on a fatal shooting yesterday morning in Bala Cynwyd, we look at how much snow blanketed the area earlier this week, plus a look at where Lower Merion ranks among the region’s wealthiest spots.

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    Ardmore Brewing Company is now a private event space

    Ardmore Brewing Company is now a private event space as Tired Hands plots its next steps.

    Tired Hands Brewing Company, the owner of Ardmore Brewing Company, has transformed the 16 Ardmore Ave. spot into a private event space for the time being.

    Despite rebranding the space, previously known as BrewCafe, having two Tired Hands locations just a short distance apart in Ardmore was confusing for customers, the owner says. Paired with changes to the brewing industry landscape, additions to Ardmore’s food scene, and construction in the area, owner Jean Broillet decided it was time for a change.

    While he says the location will be open to the public again in the future, he hasn’t specified in what form, The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner reports.

    Read more about what prompted the change to Ardmore Brewing Company.

    💡 Community News

    • A former part-time police officer in Delaware County was fatally shot by Lower Merion police yesterday morning after exchanging gunfire with officers near Old Lancaster Road and City Avenue in Bala Cynwyd. When LMPD officers confronted Francis Connell Collier, 38, who was wanted on charges of rape and other sex crimes involving children, he shot at them, police say. Read more about what we know about the incident.
    • The region saw widely ranging snowfall totals from the storm earlier this week thanks to heavy banding. Penn Wynne saw 10.5 inches, according to a figure reported to the National Weather Service. See a map of how much snow fell near you.
    • Hair stylist Artur Kirsh is opening a salon in Narberth in April after Saks Fifth Avenue’s parent company announced it would be closing the Bala Cynwyd location, where he had long operated. Artur Kirsh Hair Studio will be located at 948 Montgomery Ave. and have what he described as a “fun and intimate” vibe. Kirsh also plans to open a second location at Boyds in Center City this fall.
    • Lower Merion is among the top 25 wealthiest spots in the Philadelphia area based on median household income between 2020 and 2024, according to the latest U.S. Census American Community Survey, which compiles self-reported income data. Township residents reported a median annual household income of $176,500, which puts it at No. 21 in the region. That’s more than $20,000 higher than the prior survey that looked at data from 2010 to 2014. Narberth comes in at No. 109 with a $124,000 median household income.
    • Two men have been arrested for allegedly breaking into the Lululemon in Suburban Square last month and making off with nearly $11,000 in goods. Quran Harmon, 23, and James Jordan, 49, both from Philadelphia, are accused of using a sledgehammer to break into the store and then fleeing with merchandise.
    • After an initial decision earlier this month to maintain pool fee pricing this year at the Ardmore Avenue and Belmont Hills pools for both residents and visitors, the board of commissioners last week approved a motion to increase fees 6.5% for non-residents this summer.
    • The former headquarters of Bryn Mawr Trust at 801 W. Lancaster Ave. is going to be converted into a financial literacy center. Real estate investor and developer Michael Karp said the project to convert the roughly 46,000-square-foot property will take 18 to 24 months and he envisions it including classroom and exhibition space where local students can learn. A WSFS bank branch in the building will remain there. (Philadelphia Business Journal)
    • The community is mourning the death of longtime former Wynnewood resident and local culinary pioneer Charlotte Ann Albertson, who died earlier this month at the age of 90. Albertson taught fifth and sixth grade English at the former Wynnewood Road School, before launching Albertson Cooking School, where she recruited high-profile chefs like Georges Perrier of Le Bec-Fin fame to teach. As the school grew, Albertson gave back by supporting philanthropic organizations like the Ronald McDonald House and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

    🏫 Schools Briefing

    • Lower Merion School District is hosting the fourth and final community meeting about its 2026-2031 strategic plan on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lower Merion High School cafeteria.
    • Registration opens tomorrow for new students entering second through 12th grade in the 2026-27 school year. Find more information about registration here.
    • Tonight is the Lower Merion High School Black Student Union’s fourth annual “Shades of Black” showcase, featuring dancing, singing, and spoken word performances.
    • Spring sports start on Monday, there’s an emergency bus evacuation drill on Tuesday, and on Wednesday, Black Rock will host a special education parent information meeting. Penn Wynne Elementary School is hosting its “Taste of Penn Wynne” event next Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m., when families will showcase different cultures through displays and cuisine. See the district’s full calendar here.

    🍽️ On our Plate

    • Joseph Amrani, an owner of Delice et Chocolat, which has locations in Ardmore and Wayne, appeared on PHL17’s Positively Philly recently, showcasing some of the French shop’s pastries and chocolates, including the “crookie,” a cross between a cookie and a croissant. He was joined by Alec Hersh, executive director of Downtown Ardmore District, which recently rebranded from The Ardmore Initiative and Destination Ardmore. See the segment here.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🦁 The Lion King: Catch a screening of the 1994 animated Disney classic. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m. 💵 $6.75-$7.75 📍Bryn Mawr Film Institute

    🖨️ Community Scanning Day: Have older documents or photos you want to digitize? This event will convert up to 10 files and provide attendees with a flash drive. Registration is required. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, noon-3 p.m. 💵 Free 📍Ardmore Library

    ✡️ Purim Fest 2026: Celebrate the Jewish holiday at this family-friendly event that includes games, crafts, and other entertainment. ⏰ Sunday, March 1, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 💵 $40 per family in advance, $48 at the door 📍Kaiserman JCC

    🎨 Holi Crafternoon: Celebrate the colorful Hindu festival by making themed crafts at this drop-in event. ⏰ Wednesday, March 4, 3-5 p.m. 💵 Free 📍Gladwyne Library

    🏡 On the Market

    A six-bedroom Merion Station home with a pool and wine cellar

    The home spans over 8,000 square feet.

    Built in 1925 and updated in recent years, this classic stone Merion Station home has multiple amenities like a pool, a home theater, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, and an elevator that stops at each floor. The first floor features formal living and dining rooms, a sunroom, and a kitchen with an island, black soapstone countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The home has six bedrooms, including a primary suite with its own dressing room and a bathroom with a whirlpool tub. The third floor has an additional bedroom, plus living space, while the basement features the home theater, a wine cellar, and a rec room.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $3.33M | Size: 8,169 SF | Acreage: 1.01

    🗞️ What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Wawa has grown — but has it changed too much? | Inquirer Greater Media

    Wawa has grown — but has it changed too much? | Inquirer Greater Media

    Hi, Greater Media! 👋

    Wawa has experienced rapid growth in recent years, but it still takes its hometown fans seriously when it comes to changes. Some Inquirer staffers asked, though: Has a little of its magic been lost? Also this week, Delaware County Council has ended a disaster emergency related to Crozer Health’s closure, plans for a loop road in Middletown Township have been scrapped, plus Swarthmore College’s president is stepping down next year.

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    Wawa remains true to its local fans amid expansion

    Wawa’s corporate headquarters is located in Delaware County.

    Wawa’s stores and menu offerings look quite different than they did a couple of decades ago, but despite the many changes the Delco-rooted company has made over the years, leadership says it’s still taking cues from its hometown base.

    “For a lot of people, it’s their daily routine,” CEO Chris Gheysens told The Inquirer’s Erin McCarthy recently.

    While some bemoan the loss of freshly sliced meats (more on that below), other changes to Wawa have been consumer-driven, like introducing coffee, adding gas, and delivering protein-packed menu items.

    Read more about how Wawa continues to stay in tune with its hometown fans even as it grows and evolves.

    Yes, but is Wawa still good?

    Is Wawa what it used to be?

    Wawa has expanded to nearly 1,200 stores across 13 states and Washington, D.C., and some wonder if it’s lost a little bit of its luster all these years later.

    Three Inquirer staffers recently shared what they still love about the convenience chain and what they miss (including the freshly sliced deli meat and the spicy cherry relish).

    Read what they had to say and why they think locals remain so loyal to the brand.

    💡 Community News

    • The region saw widely ranging snowfall totals from the storm earlier this week thanks to heavy banding, but Nether Providence and Swarthmore topped the lists locally, according to figures reported to the National Weather Service. Both recorded a foot of snow, while Media clocked in at 7.8 inches. See a map of how much snow fell near you.
    • Middletown Township is not moving forward with plans for the proposed “loop road” that was intended to be built behind the Chick-fil-A and CVS to ease congestion near the busy intersection of Route 1 and Pennell Road. With PennDot planning to widen the road and add turn lanes, the project would be unnecessary. (Daily Times)
    • Delaware County Council voted last week to end a disaster emergency related to Prospect Medical’s closure of Crozer Health last year, including Crozer-Chester Medical Center. Council enacted the resolution last summer, allowing it to allocate funds that ensured residents had continued access to emergency medical services, such as ambulances. It also gave local municipalities time to establish their own EMS contracts, which, according to council, all have since done.
    • Swarthmore College President Valerie Smith announced this week that she will step down from her role in June 2027, when her contract ends. Smith has served as president since 2015, leading the liberal arts school through the pandemic, student protests, and funding threats from the federal government.
    • Eight Swarthmore College students face possible expulsion after distributing a “zine” criticizing seven members of the college’s board of managers for their ties to companies invested in Israel. The school says the students used imagery and language that “threatened, intimidated, and/or promoted potential violence on campus.” (WHYY)
    • Heads up for trolley riders: Trips on the D1 line, which starts at Orange Street in Media, could be up to 15 minutes longer after SEPTA launched a new safety system this week. The new system includes upgraded signals that require more gradual accelerations and decelerations, which are aimed at improving safety.
    • Media Mayor Joi Washington said she knows that her office carries weight beyond policy-making. The first woman and person of color to be mayor of Media, she said in a recent interview with CBS News Philadelphia, “What I want young Black girls to see, what I want Black residents to see, is that we’re still here. There are a lot of things that are stacked against us, but we can’t succumb to negativity.”
    • Swarthmore Borough residents can purchase a tree to go along or near their curb through March 9. Trees are $250 and include mulching and planting.

    📸 Local residents embrace the snow

    Josh Jordan and his 3 year-old daughter, Louise, took advantage of the snow earlier this week to build a snowman near their home in Media.

    🏫 Schools Briefing

    • On Tuesday, Wallingford-Swarthmore School District’s board approved a reorganization plan that would eliminate nearly 20 jobs as it looks to trim spending. The plan, which goes into effect in July, is expected to save the district about $2 million by eliminating five administrative positions, some instructional assistants, and other roles. The measure comes as the district faced a budget deficit for the 2027-28 school year.
    • WSSD is hosting a pair of community conversations today at Strath Haven Middle School at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to discuss the budget development for next school year.
    • Reminder for Wallingford-Swarthmore families: Tomorrow is the last day to register for next year’s morning/afternoon kindergarten lottery.
    • Also in Wallingford-Swarthmore, tomorrow is Strath Haven Middle School’s sixth and seventh grade dance, and Monday is the start of pre-season for spring athletics. There’s a policy committee meeting Tuesday night. See the district’s full calendar here.
    • In Rose Tree Media School District, there’s a school board meeting tonight at 6:30 p.m. at Penncrest High School, and Springton Lake Middle School’s musical kicks off tonight and runs through Saturday. Tomorrow, there’s a pep rally and science fair at Indian Lane. There are early dismissals for elementary school students on Wednesday for parent-teacher conferences. See the district’s full calendar here.

    🍽️ On our Plate

    • Media Restaurant Week is just a few weeks away, and eateries are offering special pricing for the occasion. See the restaurants that have signed up so far here.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🎷 Tino Serrano and His Latin Jazz Quintet: Hear the band play Latin jazz tunes as part of the Friday Night Live Concert series. ⏰ Friday, Feb. 27, 7-9:30 p.m. 💵 $10-$15 📍Community Arts Center, Wallingford

    😂 Delco Improv Night: ComedySportz Philadelphia returns for another unscripted night of comedy. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 7:30-9 p.m. 💵 $20.50 📍Park Avenue Community Center, Swarthmore

    🎵 Rust: Hear tunes from the Neil Young tribute band. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 8:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍Shere-e-Punjab

    🏡 On the Market

    A mid-century Media home with a three-season room

    The home also has solar panels.

    Built in 1950, this four-bedroom Media ranch has mid-century elements but has also been updated and expanded. Brick walls and original oak flooring give nods to the past, along with a brick fireplace that has space for wood storage, while stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a peninsula with seating give the kitchen a 21st-century feel. The home has a living room, family room with vaulted ceilings, a dining room with a dry bar area, and an office. There’s also a three-season room, a back patio, and a fenced yard.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $899,000 | Size: 4,010 SF | Acreage: 0.76

    🗞️ What other Greater Media residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • 🏀 ‘Giving his all’ | Sports Daily Newsletter

    🏀 ‘Giving his all’ | Sports Daily Newsletter

    Here at Sports Daily, we’re suckers for inspirational stories about people in sports. Fresh off Wednesday’s coverage of Zack Wheeler’s return, here is another.

    Those who are plugged in to Philly hoops know the names of Brad and Brian Wanamaker, the twins who led Roman Catholic to the Catholic League championship in 2007. Brad went on to star at Pittsburgh and played in the NBA. Brian’s path took to him to Texas Wesleyan, an NAIA school where he starred and returned to coach. He is a success as Rams coach now, but he is also in the fight of his life.

    Brian Wanamaker was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer, in 2022. His treatment has not stopped him from giving his all to his team. His players are inspired by him for sure.

    “The vets feel like if Coach is giving his all, with his chemo, we should give it our all every day in practice and every day on the court,” says Khalil Turner, a Philly native who plays for Wanamaker on the team in Texas. “He’s going above and beyond for us, so we should do the same.”

    Alex Coffey has the story.

    — Jim Swan, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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    ❓Do you think Joel Embiid can help the Sixers make a playoff run this season? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

    Back on track?

    Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (left) and Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey have squared off since childhood.

    What began as a woeful three-game Sixers road trip quickly flipped into a successful one. They snapped a four-game skid by beating the Minnesota Timberwolves, then took care of business against the shorthanded and tanking Indiana Pacers. As they return home tonight to face the Miami Heat (7 p.m., NBCSP), the most encouraging development for the Sixers is that Tyrese Maxey is officially humming again. He has scored 39 and 32 points in his last two games.

    Gina Mizell offers some takeaways from the road trip, including Maxey’s friendly rivalry with Minnesota star Anthony Edwards, which goes back to grade school.

    Pushing onward

    The Tush Push was less effective for the Eagles in 2025. That’s one reason leaders within the league think the NFL has cooled on banning it.

    Despite previous leaguewide critiques regarding player safety and aesthetics, the Tush Push could be poised to live another season. The Packers sought to ban the Eagles’ signature sneak with a rule change proposal that failed last March, but Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst said Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine that his team has no plans to try again.

    Maybe the critics of the Tush Push have lost interest because the Eagles aren’t very good at it anymore. They tried a league-high 33 push sneaks last season and converted 21, a 64% success rate. The league average is 73.8%.

    The Hitman and The Showman

    Phillies bench coach Don Mattingly oversees infield drills with first baseman Bryce Harper in Clearwater, Fla.

    After a drill on Wednesday, Don Mattingly conferred with Bryce Harper. The Hitman and The Showman. Imagine being a fly on the wall for that.

    The Phillies didn’t hire Mattingly to be their bench coach because of the effect he could have on any one player. But they do believe he will bring a different form of credibility to a coaching staff that is well-regarded within the sport but light on major-league playing experience.

    And Harper and Mattingly are both chasing something that has eluded them during their long careers: a World Series championship.

    Brad Keller was efficient in his spring debut with his new team, and Alec Bohm stood out in the field and at the plate in a win over the Tigers.

    Silver for Sanny

    Flyers defenseman Travis Sanheim had an impressive Olympics playing for Team Canada in Milan.

    Travis Sanheim was back with the Flyers on Wednesday after a couple of productive weeks in Italy with Team Canada. The blueliner did himself proud, winning a silver medal and having a strong tournament.

    While Sanheim said ending up with silver stings, he believes there are aspects from the experience that he can bring back with him to help the Flyers.

    Speaking of Flyers defensemen, Oliver Bonk hopes to follow in Sanheim’s footsteps with Canada at the Olympic Games. Jackie Spiegel caught up with the Flyers’ top defensive prospect last week to check on his transition to pro hockey.

    The Flyers returned from the break with a 3-1 loss to the Capitals in Washington. Noah Cates scored the only goal for Rick Tocchet’s team.

    Sports snapshot

    Frankie Westfield on the ball during the Union’s first Concacaf Champions Cup game against Defence Force FC.

    Our columnists say …

    Members of the United States Olympic hockey team, goalie Connor Hellebuyck in front, attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday.
    • The U.S. men’s hockey team won Olympic gold in dramatic, heartwarming fashion Sunday, but our sitting president immediately spoiled the afterglow as they celebrated in Italy. Still, most of Team USA accepted an invitation to visit the White House. They met with Trump on Tuesday afternoon and attended the State of the Union address that night. All of this set social media and TV talk shows on fire: How dare they? Which is exactly what Trump wanted. More from Marcus Hayes.
    • Last season, there wasn’t a lonelier lot in life than to be a Phillies superstar standing on first, second, or third. Only four players in the majors reached base as many times as Bryce Harper did and scored fewer runs. The 72 runs he did score were the fewest of his career in a season with at least 500 plate appearances. … Not since E.T. have we seen someone with such otherworldly attributes struggle this hard to get home. More from David Murphy.

    What you’re saying about comebacks

    We asked: What’s your favorite athlete comeback story? Among your responses:

    Embiid has certainly been more solid this year when he plays, however my favorite is Tiger Woods. He came back from back and knee surgeries to win the Masters. He’s working hard again to play the Masters this year. Will a miracle happen again? We’ll see. — Tom G.

    Here are 2 inspirational comeback stories that resonate strongly for me. Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered a nearly fatal cardiac arrest during a Monday Night Football game in January 2023. He miraculously returned to play the following year and eventually became a starter. In 2003, Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton was bitten by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing in Hawaii when she was 13. She lost her left arm as well as 60% of her blood. Incredibly, she returned to surfing just 26 days after the attack, and began competing again professionally the next year. So much for “time management.” — Stephen T.

    Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has returned to playing after suffering a cardiac arrest on the field.

    For me, it’s not the comeback from an injury, but rather come back — two words. It was when Dick Allen came back to Philadelphia. No more powerful, emotional, uplifting, soul-cleansing moment I can recall. It still resonates with me after all these years. — Tony R.

    Hard to top the 2004, down 0-3, Red Sox in the [World Series] against the dominant Yankees, but came back to win 4 straight and finally end the Curse of the Bambino. Regarding Philly sports, I would pick backup QB Nick Foles who took over for injured Wentz and took the Eagles through the playoffs and on to their 1st ever Super Bowl win over Tom Terrific and the favored Patriots and even added the now famous Philly Special. — Everett S.

    You know a procedure to fix your injury is so innovative when it is named after you. Tommy John is the patron saint of the elbow surgery that is ubiquitous in baseball. After the surgery in 1975, many thought that he would never pitch again and that his 10-year major league baseball career was over. But he returned in 1976 and went on to have 14 more years and post 164 of his career 288 victories. — Joseph W.

    We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Marcus Hayes, David Murphy, Alex Coffey, Olivia Reiner, Gina Mizell, Jackie Spiegel, Gabriela Carroll, Lochlahn March, Scott Lauber, and Jonathan Tannenwald.

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    Thanks for reading Sports Daily. I’ll see you in Friday’s newsletter. — Jim

  • The best sushi, right to your door | Let’s Eat

    The best sushi, right to your door | Let’s Eat

    Restaurants are stepping up their delivery sushi. Here are our favorites downtown.

    Also in this edition:

    — Mike Klein

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    The best delivery sushi

    With the gap narrowing between casual sushi joints and upscale omakase, Kiki Aranita set out to find the best delivery sushi in downtown Philly. These nine restaurants are clearly on a roll.

    A father-son Japanese homecoming

    🏯 Chef Jesse Ito and his father, Matt, flew to Japan for a rare bonding trip, exploring markets, family roots, and the traditions that shaped Royal Sushi & Izakaya. Craig LaBan and Monica Herndon tagged along to share an inside look.

    🍜 If you toured Japan for nine days with a chef and a food critic, here’s where you might eat.

    Beer festival brouhaha

    This Saturday, there will be two beer festivals with identical-sounding names. Beatrice Forman reports that Philly Bierfest wants the New York-rooted Philly Beer Fest to stop confusing customers.

    Tacconelli’s opens a cocktail bar, but where’s the pizza?

    Vince Tacconelli opens a cocktail bar Wednesday. Although Bar Tacconelli is not a pizzeria, he figures at least he and his South Jersey neighbors won’t have to cross the bridge to Philly for a fun night out.

    Gluten-free bakery opens on the Main Line

    Flakely, the gluten-free bakery, has opened a shop in Bryn Mawr, as Denali Sagner reports, bringing its pastries front and center after toiling in a commercial kitchen in Manayunk.

    The best things we ate last week

    Follow the food team’s travels: tasty spanakopita, scallops and burrata, and a clam pizza that brought beach vibes to Center City.

    Scoops

    After five years behind the smoked-fish counter at Biederman’s in South Philadelphia, Gene Mopsik has moved on. The food maven and erstwhile commercial photographer known as @phillyloxsmith says he lost most of his hours after three spinal surgeries in 14 months. With retirement not an option at age 77, he has started what he calls a small-batch food project. On the eve of Purim, he’s baking hamentashen — poppy, prune, and apricot. Preorders (six for $22) at phillyloxsmith.com should be available through Thursday for pickup Sunday. “I need to stay busy,” Mopsik said. “There’s something about people enjoying what you create.”

    Monto is the name of the pub that the Fergie’s Pub crew is planning to open in Old City this spring. Sandwich meister N.A. Poe is planning a Celtic-Philly menu.

    Blue Sunday, an American-Asian restaurant out of Maryland (there’s a location in Bensalem), is planning a September opening in the former Carrabba’s Italian Grill space at Springfield Mall. It’s also headed into the former Famous Dave’s location at Christiana Town Center in Delaware.

    Restaurant report

    For his latest review, critic Craig LaBan ties on a lobster bib at Bomb Bomb Bar to dig into chef Joey Baldino’s revival of the classic red-gravy bar.

    The oxtail lasagna is one of the rustic South Philly-inspired dishes on the menu at Piccolina, a cozy, new bar-restaurant at the Society Hill Hotel in Old City.

    Briefly noted

    Charlotte Ann Albertson, whose cooking school helped launch many careers (remember Chef Tell?), has died at 90. Here’s her obit.

    Philadelphians are annoying, unfriendly, and stressed. But, as Emily Bloch reports, we have the best sandwiches, according to an analysis of how ChatGPT views the city.

    Cherry Street Tavern, one of Center City’s oldest bars, is for sale as the owners want to hang up their aprons. “There’s just something sacred about the place,” one bartender told Mike Newall.

    Restaurant weeks in progress: Queen Village/Bella Vista (through Sunday) and East Passyunk (through March 6).

    The Philly Chef Conference will host restaurateur Drew Nieporent (Nobu, Tribeca Grill) for a talk/book-signing at 5:30 p.m. Monday at Drexel University’s Academic Bistro (101 N. 33rd St.). In convo with Inquirer food writer Kiki Aranita, Nieporent will discuss his new memoir, I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories From the Restaurant Trenches. Admission ($25) includes a signed copy of the book (free for students); a light reception will follow. Register here.

    Pita Chip, the Middle Eastern fast-casual chainlet, will mark its first year at the Concourse at Comcast Center with free chicken shawarma or falafel entrees from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. March 3. Limit one per person.

    Panda Fest, the outdoor Asian food and culture festival, is returning to Dilworth Park April 18-19 for its second year. Early-bird ticket sales start Thursday.

    Dig Inn, a farm-to-table fast-casual chain, has set March 13 for its opening at 112 S. 11th St. It’s previewing with a food-drive exchange on March 11 and 12; those who donate a canned good or nonperishable food item get a free bowl in return. Reserve a time slot here. All donated items go across the street to Thomas Jefferson U’s Ramily Market Pantry.

    ❓Pop quiz

    A regular crafted a replica of his favorite restaurant out of Lego bricks. Which one?

    A) Pat’s King of Steaks

    B) Friday Saturday Sunday

    C) Buddakan

    D) Famous 4th Street

    Find out if you know the answer, and see a photo of it.

    Ask Mike anything

    I saw a restaurant online in the city with a dessert that was a carrot cake combination cheesecake. The cheesecake was on top of the carrot cake. Any idea where it could be? — Alan M.

    I’m sure more than a few locals offer this hybrid; the key is finding one on the regular menu. There’s the Cheesecake Lady (in new quarters in Jenkintown, with Cloud Cups’ Kensington location as an outlet); Bredenbeck’s in Chestnut Hill; and the assorted Cheesecake Factory locations. Know of others? Let me know and I’ll include next week.

    📮 Have a question about food in Philly? Email your questions to me at mklein@inquirer.com for a chance to be featured in my newsletter.

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

  • 🥟 Empanadas on demand | Morning Newsletter

    🥟 Empanadas on demand | Morning Newsletter

    Good morning, Philly. Look out for snow atop black ice as storm recovery continues, and don’t forget that city trash collection is on a two-day delay. Check when yours is getting picked up.

    You can now get hot empanadas out of vending machines at 30th Street Station, thanks to a Philadelphia-founded company.

    And New Jersey state lawmakers just got a 67% pay increase, their first raise in more than two decades. They still make less than their peers in Harrisburg — and most have other jobs, too.

    — Julie Zeglen (morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

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    Empanada. Vending. Machine.

    Philly has been home to vending machines selling cheese, yarn, pastries, Narcan, and tiny art since the first Horn & Hardart in the United States opened on Chestnut Street in 1902.

    🥟 There’s a new entry in the automated snack category: empanadas.

    🥟 The dough dispensary at 30th Street Station comes via Empanadas United, a local company founded by a former Comcast designer and now expanding with national partners.

    🥟 The machine is satiating travelers’ hunger amid yearslong renovations at the city’s SEPTA and Amtrak hub, as well as at other travel hubs around the country — but not yet Philadelphia International Airport.

    Business reporter Joseph N. DiStefano explains how it all works.

    More food news: A cocktail bar from Tacconelli’s opens today in South Jersey. Just don’t expect pizza.

    A raise for New Jersey legislators

    Elected officials in New Jersey’s state House and Senate just got their first pay raise in 25 years.

    By the numbers: The lawmakers received a nearly 70% pay bump, from $49,000 to $82,000, after a law signed in 2024 took effect in January. That’s still lower than the state’s median household income, and at least $31,000 lower than what Pennsylvania legislators make.

    Salary stakes: Garden State lawmakers are considered part-time, though some members say the job is a full-time commitment and most have other employment. At least one is also a public schoolteacher.

    Better pay, better lawmaking? Some experts argue that the higher pay means more New Jerseyans will be able to run for office — not just those who are already wealthy or can otherwise afford to make the salaries offered — and that legislators will be able to commit more time to the job. Others aren’t so sure it will make a big enough difference.

    Politics reporter Aliya Schneider has the story.

    In other state government news: Pennsylvania spent $397 million in overtime last year. Here’s why state workers are logging such long hours.

    What you should know today

    Quote of the day

    North Philadelphia native Brian Wanamaker has an incurable cancer. It hasn’t stopped him from turning Texas Wesleyan University’s men’s basketball team into a winner.

    🧠 Trivia time

    Philadelphia’s Department of Planning and Development has identified three possible locations for a permanent intercity bus station. Which is not one of them?

    A) The former Greyhound terminal at 10th and Filbert streets

    B) A pair of parking lots on Arch Street near Eighth Street

    C) The Philadelphia Gateway Garage on Vine Street near 15th Street

    D) A parking lot near 30th Street Station on Arch Street

    Think you know? Check your answer.

    What we’re …

    💊 Noting: The FDA’s removal of the “black box” warning on hormone treatments for women in menopause.

    🦅 Following: Where the Eagles Autism Foundation is donating the $10.8 million it raised last year.

    🏘️ Comparing: What homebuyers can get for about $760,000 in Chestnut Hill, Riverton, and Upper Dublin.

    🎞️ Watching: Riverbend, the lost 1989 film brought back to life in Norristown.

    ⚖️ Considering: Why government’s separation of powers still matters today.

    🧩 Unscramble the anagram

    Hint: Delaware River-adjacent neighborhood

    TENN PROPS

    Email us if you know the answer. We’ll select a reader at random to shout out here.

    Cheers to Sonia Tupone, who solved Tuesday’s anagram: Scranton. The Flyers will bring the (fictional) Dunder Mifflin from its Northeast Pennsylvania hometown to South Philly for The Office theme night next month.

    Photo of the day

    James Walker with Valley Forge Flowers places baby’s breath on a large overhead sweeping, twisting root structure at the Convention Center on Tuesday while setting up for the Philadelphia Flower Show.

    Thanks for starting your day with The Inquirer. Until the city’s (outdoor) trees bloom once again, be well.

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

  • These Chesco spots are the wealthiest in the region | Inquirer Chester County

    These Chesco spots are the wealthiest in the region | Inquirer Chester County

    Hi, Chester County! 👋

    Local communities dominate a new list looking at the Philadelphia region’s wealthiest areas by income. Also this week, East Vincent’s planning commission has voted against a proposed data center at Pennhurst, North Coventry Township officials headed off a different data center before it was even formally submitted, plus Tired Hands Brewing Company has closed its Kennett Square outpost.

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    Chester County dominates a list of the region’s wealthiest spots

    Homes along Yorkshire Way in Birmingham Township, one of the wealthiest communities in the Philadelphia region.

    Chester County is home to six of the 10 wealthiest spots in the Philadelphia area, according to the latest U.S. Census American Community Survey, which compiles self-reported income data.

    Topping the list is Pocopson Township, which had a median annual household income of $230,000 during the five-year period ending in 2024. It’s followed by West Pikeland ($226,100), Birmingham ($215,000), and Easttown ($214,900). West Vincent ($202,600) and Charlestown ($202,200) were the other two Chesco spots in the top 10, ranking No. 7 and 8, respectively.

    The Inquirer’s Anthony R. Wood and John Duchneskie delve into the data and map the wealthiest pockets.

    📍 Countywide News

    • The county saw widely ranging snowfall totals from this week’s storm thanks to heavy banding. According to figures reported to the National Weather Service, Malvern saw the largest total in Chester County at 12.3 inches, while East Coventry came in at the lower end, with 5.5 inches. See a map of how much snow fell near you earlier this week. Keep an eye out for a bit more snow today.
    • Former Chester County detective Christine Bleiler, who was a technical adviser on HBO’s popular drama Mare of Easttown, is suing the county and her former supervisor over alleged sex discrimination. Bleiler was a police officer in Oxford Borough before becoming a county detective in 2015. She resigned from her post in September.

    💡 Community News

    • In case you missed it, East Vincent’s planning commission recommended last week that the township’s board of supervisors deny a proposed data center at the Pennhurst site when it comes in front of them next month. The commission said the proposal, which calls for five two-story data center buildings, a sixth building, an electrical substation, and a solar field, was not in compliance with the zoning ordinance. The board of supervisors is holding a public hearing on March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at East Vincent Elementary School.
    • Pennhurst isn’t the only data center proposed in the area that’s getting pushback from local officials and residents. Envision Land Use has decided to look elsewhere to develop what it’s calling a “boutique” data center after public outcry over its plans, which called for building a 120,000-square-foot, three-story center at 299 Schuylkill Rd. On Monday, North Coventry Township’s board of supervisors took a preemptive vote that they’d reject the proposal, before it was even formally submitted.
    • The developer looking to build a data center on a remediated Superfund site in East Whiteland Township has submitted updated plans following last month’s planning commission meeting. The applicant is expected to attend tonight’s planning commission meeting, which will begin at 7 p.m. at the township building, and will also be live streamed.
    • Last week, Constellation Energy Group withdrew its application for data center code amendments, which were set to come before the East Coventry Township board of supervisors next month. The energy company was seeking changes that would have allowed data centers on five properties.
    • The 300-year-old village of Cochranville is one step closer to getting its first public water line after West Fallowfield Township secured a $1 million grant to fund the project. It’s estimated to cost $5 to $6 million total and is still years away from a groundbreaking.
    • Lincoln University in Lower Oxford Township is planning to implement new safety measures for large events after a shooting at homecoming in October left one dead and six others injured. The university said it won’t host outdoor events after dusk, and events will be held within “a controlled environment” so visitors can be screened.
    • A group of residents is trying to save a deteriorating West Goshen fieldstone home from being demolished, with hopes of restoring it and converting it into an education center about the county’s Quaker history and involvement in the Underground Railroad. A judge will decide the fate of the property, which was built in 1900 and has been left to deteriorate for the past two decades.
    • John Michael Bontrager, founding head of investment-risk adviser Chatham Financial, is focused on revitalizing Kennett Square, including spaces like beer garden The Creamery. He recently sat down with The Inquirer’s Joseph N. DiStefano to talk about the projects he’s focusing on.
    • West Chester-based home shopping giant QVC Group, parent company to HSN, is being sued for $30 million by fashion designer and longtime former HSN host, Antthony Mark Hankins, who says he was abruptly and unjustifiably terminated last July.
    • Heads up for drivers: A monthslong Peco project to improve natural gas infrastructure in Willistown Township is set to get underway Monday. Work will take place on Paoli Pike between Frazer Avenue and South Cedar Hollow Road and on Fairview Road between Paoli Pike and Gable Road. Paoli Pike will be closed weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. until the end of July. During the closures, drivers will be directed to use Devon and Darby Roads and Lancaster Avenue. The project is expected to wrap up by July 31. In Caln Township, Olive Street between South Caln Road and 13th Avenue will continue to be closed on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for utility construction. Work is now expected to wrap up on April 30.
    • A new gating system at the Oxford Borough parking garage at 2nd Street and Octoraro Alley will go into effect Monday. The system will have 24-hour enforced payments, though free or reduced-cost parking may be implemented in the future.
    • Enrique Lopez-Gomez, 32, of West Grove, pleaded guilty this month to third-degree murder after allegedly punching a 9-month-old baby who was in his care in 2024 and not seeking medical attention for the child afterward. Lopez-Gomez will remain in prison while he awaits sentencing.
    • Uwchlan Township is seeking residents’ feedback as it prepares for a five-year strategic plan. Find the survey here.
    • A few pieces of early childhood education news: In Downingtown, a new Kiddie Academy is opening this weekend at 595 Bell Tavern Blvd. Also, The Learning Experience is planning to open two new Chester County locations. They will be at 715 Pike Springs Rd. in Phoenixville and 43 Lancaster Pike in Malvern. A timeline for opening hasn’t been announced yet. (Philadelphia Business Journal)

    🏫 Schools Briefing

    • Great Valley School District is discontinuing its use of the Bus Status app and will instead send communications through ParentSquare.
    • The Octorara Area School District is looking for a resident of Sadsbury or West Fallowfield Townships to fill an open board director seat. Applications are due Monday.
    • Tredyffrin/Easttown School District will open applications for a redistricting steering committee April 6 to 24. The committee will be comprised of 10 parents or guardians who will work with Wendy Towle, the district’s director of curriculum, instruction, staff development and planning, plus an external facilitator and “observers,” on a redistricting process in anticipation of the opening of the new Bear Hill Elementary School.

    🍽️ On our Plate

    • Tired Hands Brewing Company has closed its Kennett Square taproom and bottle shop at 201 E. State St. after its owner decided it no longer made sense to continue operating there. Tired Hands will continue to distribute its beers in the area.
    • Cup of Dreams Coffee and Tea in the Paoli Village Shoppes is closing on Saturday as its lease ends. The owner is looking for a new location.
    • Tasty Table Catering has opened a new storefront known as The Table: Kitchen + Market for private events for up to 40 people. It’s located at its headquarters at 10 Leopard Rd. in Berwyn.
    • West Chester Restaurant Week continues through Sunday. See all the participating restaurants here.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🎭 Twelfth Night: William Shakespeare’s comedy gets a modern twist. ⏰ Wednesday, Feb. 25-Sunday, March 29, times vary 💵 Prices vary 📍People’s Light, Malvern

    🍸 Hush: An Immersive Speakeasy Experience: The Franklin Follies will perform parlour noir-style music, while cocktails featuring Bluebird Distillery libations will be served. ⏰ Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. 💵 $35 📍The Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville

    🍺 Kennett Winterfest: Over 60 craft breweries will be at this annual event, along with food trucks, live music, and vendors. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 12:30-4 p.m. 💵 $20.80 for non-alcoholic tickets, $62.40 for regular admission 📍South Broad Street, Kennett Square

    🪈 Family Concert with BVS Woodwind Quintet: This family-friendly and interactive performance features woodwind instruments. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 2-3 p.m. 💵 $10-$30 📍Kennett Library, Kennett Square

    🏡 On the Market

    A Chester Springs estate with two primary suites

    The home has a covered porch that looks out on the surrounding property.

    Built in 2021, this sprawling Chester Springs estate has plenty of privacy thanks to both conservation land and surrounding pastures. The home features a two-tone kitchen with a quartz-topped island and a walk-in pantry that opens onto a dining and living room with a fireplace. Spanning six total bedrooms, the home has two primary suites, one on the first floor and another upstairs. The first-floor suite has a double vanity and a large walk-in shower, while the second-floor suite also has a soaking tub. Other features include a walk-out finished basement, a five-car garage, and a whole-house backup generator.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $1.895M | Size: 9,130 SF | Acreage: 2.34

    🗞️ What other Chester County residents are reading this week:

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

    This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

  • Exploring Cherry Hill’s Underground Railroad stop | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    Exploring Cherry Hill’s Underground Railroad stop | Inquirer Cherry Hill

    Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋

    Archaeologists are digging at Croft Farm to learn more about the site’s stop on the Underground Railroad. Also this week, new public pickleball courts are in the works, plus several high school sports teams are making post-season runs.

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    An archeological dig opens a window to the past at Croft Farm

    Chelsea Carriere, archaeologist with PS&S, grabs for a bucket while digging at Croft Farm.

    Over the weekend, archaeologists unearthed pieces of the past as they excavated around the historic Croft Farm property. The dig, which was open to the public to view and part of a project to stop groundwater from entering the home’s basement, revealed artifacts dating back hundreds and thousands of years.

    They provide clues to the site’s past, including as a stop on the Underground Railroad, and before that, as a place where the Lenni-Lenape Indigenous people lived.

    Animal bones and pieces of pottery will help archaeologists better understand eating habits and traditions of those who lived there, The Inquirer’s Brett Sholtis reports.

    Read more about what the archaeologists unearthed.

    💡 Community News

    • This week’s storm brought a lot of snow to the region, with totals varying widely thanks to heavy banding. While the National Weather Service didn’t report an official total for Cherry Hill, surrounding towns reported 14 to 16.5 inches. The bad news (for those who don’t like snow): There’s the potential for a little bit more today. The good news is that it’s unlikely the snow will stick around as long as it did with last month’s storm thanks to the warmer temperatures and the extra daylight that late February brings.
    • Cherry Hill residents had a median household income of $121,500 between 2020 and 2024, according to the latest U.S. Census American Community Survey, which compiles self-reported income data over a five-year period. That’s up just about $2,000 from the last survey, looking at data from 2010 to 2014, and makes Cherry Hill the third-wealthiest town in Camden County.
    • Good news for pickleball players: Eight new public courts are in the works at two sites around town. The township is planning to build four courts with lights at Beechwood Avenue and Route 38. The goal is to start construction this summer and have the courts ready by early fall. Meanwhile, Camden County is building four courts at the nearly 18-acre John Adler Memorial Park at Challenge Grove at the corner of Bortons Mill and Caldwell Roads. Construction on those courts is also expected to begin this summer and will add to the park’s existing sports facilities, including a softball field, and basketball and bocce courts.
    • The planning board is meeting Monday evening to hear public comment about an amendment to the township’s Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, which would amend its overall master plan if adopted. One change would allow for the site of the six-story office building at 3 Executive Campus to be redeveloped into residential or mixed-used buildings with between 39 and 64 affordable units. It would also allow for part of the 28.2-acre site’s land to be developed. See a draft of the amendment here.
    • A Cherry Hill man who pleaded guilty to child molestation after having a sexual encounter with a 13-year-old girl in Indiana in 2021 was sentenced last week to three years in prison. Jonathan A. Trauger, 28, must also register as a sex offender for a decade after his release. (Courier Post)

    📸 Cherry Hill residents dig out after the storm

    Three generations of Cherry Hill residents, Julio Maldonado Sr., 79 (right), Julio Maldonado III, 19 (middle), and Julio Maldonado Jr., 49, (left), dug out the family’s car on Covered Bridge Road Monday. “We live together, play together, and work together,” Julio Maldonado Jr. said.

    🏫 Schools Briefing

    • There are several school board committee meetings on Monday evening, which are open to the public. See the district’s full calendar here.
    • East girls’ swimming will take on Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School in the NJSIAA Team Swimming Championships this morning, after the event was postponed due to the weather. The meet will kickoff at 8:30 a.m. East defeated Passaic County Technical Institute 88-82 in group semifinals to claim its spot. As for the East boys’ swimming team, after making it to the semifinals, the Cougars fell to Hillsborough High 91.5-78.5. (NJ.com)
    • The NJSIAA girls’ basketball playoffs kick off this week, with both East and West competing. The West girls’ team will look to defend its state championship title in the first round of the Group 3 tournament on Friday at 3:45 p.m., hosting Cumberland Regional High School. Follow the results here and see the Lions’ full group bracket here. And East will take on Atlantic City High School tomorrow at 4:30 p.m. as part of the Group 4 tournament. See East’s full group bracket here.
    • East boys’ basketball also kicks off its NJSIAA playoff run this week, hosting Toms River High School North tomorrow at 4 p.m. The Group 4 top-seeded East went into the playoffs with a 21-3 regular season record. See the Cougars’ full Group 4 bracket here.
    • Camden Catholic High School’s boys’ wrestling team captured its 20th state title on Sunday, defeating Pope John XXIII Regional High School 53-19. It now has the third-highest number of state titles among public and non-public teams. (Courier Post)

    🍽️ On our Plate

    • Two Cherry Hill spots serve some of the best bagels in the state, according to a new ranking from NJ.com. Bagel Spot on Kings Highway landed at No. 18 on the list for its 24 types of bagels and 30 varieties of spreads, while K & A Bagel Cafe came in at No. 43. The Route 70 spot has 21 kinds of bagels and 18 spreads, including a honey cinnamon butter.

    🎳 Things to Do

    🎷 A Journey Through Jazz: Hear the Bradford Hayes Jazz Quartet perform. ⏰ Friday, Feb. 27, 7-8:30 p.m. 💵 $15 in advance, $20 at the door 📍Croft Farm Arts Center

    ☕ Bridgerton Handbuilding Workshop: Fans won’t want to miss this workshop, where you can make a teacup and saucer inspired by the popular Netflix show. ⏰ Saturday, Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 💵 $150 📍Hugs Ceramics

    🍎 Holistic Health and Healing Expo: Learn about holistic wellness through lectures and workshops. You can also meet practitioners and shop for related goods. ⏰ Sunday, March 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 💵 Free or $7.18 for VIP admission 📍DoubleTree by Hilton Cherry Hill Philadelphia

    ✡️ Purim Carnival: Kids are encouraged to dress in costume for this event celebrating the Jewish holiday. There will be face painting, games, crafts, food, and drinks. ⏰ Sunday, March 1, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 💵 $20 per child 3 and older, free for adults and children under 3 📍Congregation Kol Ami

    🏡 On the Market

    A classic four-bedroom brick home in Short Hills

    The home has a classic brick facade, a portico, and dormers.

    Located in the Short Hills neighborhood, this brick-fronted home is full of classic elements, including a covered portico and dormers. Inside, there’s a two-story foyer, a formal living room with a gas fireplace, a formal dining room, a first-floor office, and a family room with a brick fireplace. The kitchen has a double oven, a separate bar area, and a dining area with vaulted ceilings and access to the deck. There are four bedrooms upstairs, including a primary suite with a separate sitting area, a large walk-in closet, a jacuzzi tub, and two vanities. Other features include a finished basement with a full bathroom, a three-car garage, and a patio.

    See more photos of the home here.

    Price: $1.05M | Size: 5,007 SF | Acreage: 0.46

    🗞️ What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week:

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