Last week, I visited two subsidized apartment communities in North Philly. One was newly built and still leasing, and the other was built years ago.
But they had something in common that set them both apart from other subsidized housing complexes: They are also sites of playful learning.
Basically, that’s the concept of engaging children and their caregivers in skill-building lessons through play. Think matching games that help kids recognize patterns and the classic I Spy game that teaches kids to describe their surroundings.
An organization founded in Philly has brought educational play spaces to laundromats, grocery stores, and parks. But this is the first time it’s taken playful learning to subsidized housing. Supporters hope Philly can be a national model.
Keep scrolling for that story and more in this week’s edition:
Timing is everything: Read why an economist says this spring may be the time for hopeful homebuyers to make moves.
In Sharswood, a yellow street painted on a sidewalk teaches children rules of the road. A few minutes away, what was once just a bike rack has become a place children can picture themselves as superheroes and act out stories they create on a stage.
Bringing playful learning to subsidized housing communities is a matter of educational equity, said architect Heidi Segall Levy.
She’s the project manager for the Live and Learn pilot that brought playful learning to North Philly.
Kids do a lot of their learning outside the classroom, and this initiative is meant to help vulnerable children catch up to peers who have access to more educational opportunities.
The goal is to incorporate playful learning into subsidized housing developments across the country. And Philly is the test case.
Everyone from your coworker to your Lyft driver has an opinion (in my personal experience).
But if you’re looking to hear from someone who’s a bit more of an expert, we’ve got some advice from Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.
He reinforces some of what you’ve seen and felt. Homes have gotten a lot more expensive. There aren’t that many properties to choose from. Renting can be the more affordable option.
But Zandi says that if you’ve been thinking about buying a home, this spring could be the time to make the leap.
I feel like it’s never good when someone in the home design industry calls your house “an interesting design dilemma.”
But the home that Diane and Keith Reynolds bought a few years ago in Rydal, Montgomery County was all over the place.
It was originally built in the Cape Cod style, but the previous owner had added on to the home in the Craftsman style.
The designer had to make sense of elements that didn’t go together and kitchen features such as the loft, beams, and floor plan that made for an “unusual design problem.”
“The reclaimed wood loft installed by the previous architect is something I’ve never seen before, and I’m sure will never see again,” he said.
Hi there, Philly. A major winter storm is looking more likely for the region this weekend, with experts calling for several inches of snow that’s likely to stick around into next week.
Several street lamps in my neighborhood park had been out for what seemed like months. So, earlier this winter, I fired up the Philly311 app, reported the dead bulbs, and voilà — within days, light was restored.
☎️ The 311 hotline and its accompanying app, website, and email address make up the city’s nonemergency service system. The call center fields residents’ requests and transfers them to the city department or community partner best equipped to help.
☎️ The service received over half a million requests last year.
☎️ But what counts as a nonemergency? Is it a noise complaint about a loud neighbor, a car that seems abandoned, a persistent pothole, a beeping smoke alarm?
In the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania, where President Trump made his biggest gains in the state in the 2024 election, there are signs that his winning coalition is splintering.
Some Republican and independent voters in the region who previously backed the president told The Inquirer they still do. But others shared their disappointment with rising grocery prices and what they see as Trump’s failure to keep his commitments.
The shift comes as the Pennsylvania GOP looks to hold onto two swing congressional seats in November: U.S. Reps. Ryan Mackenzie, who represents the Lehigh Valley, and Rob Bresnahan, who represents his neighboring Northeastern Pennsylvania district. Both won their seats in 2024 by a single point or less.
In other federal government news: A Chester County school district is under investigation by the Trump administration for a policy allowing transgender girls to play on girls’ sports teams. And Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. touted his new nutritional guidelines and pushed back against criticism of his vaccine policy at a rally in Harrisburg Wednesday.
A man died after being electrocutedinside the shuttered Brith Sholom House senior housing complex Wednesday, authorities say, one day after city officials announced a plan to redevelop the vacant West Philadelphia facility.
The new owner of the defunct Crozer-Chester Medical Center wants to restore hospital and emergency services to the 64-acre Delaware County campus. Plus, two other Delco hospitals are getting $6 million from the state to help them address a sharp increase in patients after Crozer Health closed last year.
A warehouse developer’s proposal to trade land with the state in Limerick Township and beyond has blindsided local officials and ignited fierce opposition from residents.
The region nabbed 13 James Beard Award semifinalist slots, including Greg Vernick for outstanding restaurateur and Kalaya for outstanding restaurant.
Architecture critic Inga Saffron weighs in on the city’s decision to allow the Rocky statue to be permanently installed at the top of the Art Museum steps, calling the move “no victory.”
Quote of the day
On this week’s episode of Abbott Elementary — the Emmy-winning sitcom from West Philly-raised comedy star Quinta Brunson — the teachers get a visit from a surprise guest: a reporter from The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Cheers to Mark Bussy, who solved Wednesday’s anagram: Kim Kardashian. Skims, the clothing company she founded, collected sales tax from New Jersey consumers for five years. (The state doesn’t tax clothing.) The brand has settled an investigation for $200,000.
Photo of the day
One of the educational outdoor play spaces at 2045 Master St. that Live and Learn is bringing to affordable housing communities in Philadelphia.
🖌️ One last playful thing: Educational play spaces were built at two North Philly affordable housing sites. Stakeholders hope they can inspire similar projects nationwide.
Stay warm out there. I’ll see you back here tomorrow morning.
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Dana Edwards was sworn in as mayor of Narberth earlier this month.
Narberth’s new mayor may have only lived in the 4,500-person borough for five years, but he’s already got a vision for it.
Dana Edwards, 53, was sworn into office earlier this month after securing the backing of Narberth’s Democratic committee and running unopposed in both the primary and general elections.
Now the Puerto Rico native who’s lived in several other parts of the U.S. before settling in Narberth is focused on sustainable growth while maintaining the borough’s “hometown feel,” The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner reports.
When the late Kobe Bryant came to Lower Merion, he helped shape a rivalry with Chester that endured.
Decades may have passed, but a longtime rivalry between two high school basketball teams, begun in part by legend Kobe Bryant, still lives on today.
When Bryant joined the Lower Merion Aces his freshman year, the school wasn’t a basketball powerhouse. But as the program improved, it soon built a rivalry with the much-more-stacked Chester High School, so much so that their matchups would often sell out venues.
Saks Fifth Avenue’s parent company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last week, leaving some questions about the future of its stores. For the time being, the Saks on City Avenue in Bala Cynwyd will remain open while the company restructures. Here’s what we know so far.
Women’s apparel and accessories store Francesca’s, which has a location at Suburban Square in Ardmore, is reportedly closing its remaining stores after years of financial turmoil. Francesca’s filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in late 2020. (Fox Business)
Villanova University is among a handful of Pennsylvania colleges that are now paying some of its athletes directly. The move comes after a federal class-action lawsuit last year regarding student athlete compensation. Villanova said it will primarily pay athletes on its basketball teams.
Coulter Place, an apartment community at Suburban Square, is now open. The 131-unit, five-story building has a fitness center, clubroom, game room, pool, coworking spaces, and pet-care spaces with rents ranging from about $3,030 to $7,035 per month.
A handful of Philadelphia Police Department employees live in and around Lower Merion, according to a new Inquirer analysis. An increasing number of Philadelphia police employees — about a third of full-time staff — live outside the city, with four who reside in Bala Cynwyd, three in Bryn Mawr, and two each in Ardmore, Narberth, Villanova, and Wynnewood. See a map of where employees live here.
Bala Cynwyd resident Jenny Sved has been named the new executive director of Teach PA, the statewide affiliate of Jewish education advocacy organization Teach Coalition, which represents Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy and Perelman Jewish Day School.
A new pet boutique, Mila’s Pup Tienda, is coming to Ardmore, taking over the space at 18 E. Lancaster Ave.
6abc recently caught up with Carolyn Vachani, the owner of Plant 4 Good in Ardmore. When the former nurse was ready to retire, she decided to open the shop at 100 Cricket Ave. to help connect others to plants and gardening. See the segment here.
Wynnewood’s English Village recently marked a milestone, turning 100 last year, and a century later still remains a coveted, if under-the-radar spot for homebuyers. The village sits between Cherry Lane and Wister Road and spans 29 Tudor-style homes. (Main Line Today)
🏫 Schools Briefing
The district is hosting its third strategic plan community input meeting on Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lower Merion High School cafeteria. There, members of the community can share their thoughts on the district’s strategic plan for 2026 to 2031.
Tonight is Welsh Valley’s winter choral concert. The school board will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, and there will be tours of Harriton High for eighth grade students and their families on Wednesday, which is also course selection night. See the district’s full calendar here.
Lower Merion High School’s wrestling team recently took home third place overall in the Central League Championship Tournament, held at Harriton High School. It was the team’s best overall performance. Senior Sam Soeffing also took home first place in his competition.
🍽️ On our Plate
With a more than 700-person waitlist, a Gladwyne restaurant is surprisingly tough to get into, but it’s the best meal The Inquirer’s Kiki Aranita has eaten on the Main Line. Why’s it so difficult to score a table? Partly because Carlton Commons is in senior-living community Waverly Heights and requires residency. For those with friends or relatives there, it’s worth tagging along for the osso buco, butternut squash risotto, rigatoni alla vodka, or the signature tomato aspic.
Bikini Burger, a new eatery at 44 Rittenhouse Place in Ardmore, is hosting a ribbon cutting today at 11:30 a.m. to mark its official opening. Its menu includes burgers, milkshakes, and fries.
Looking for a non-alcoholic cocktail? Char & Stave in Ardmore has a barrel-aged “Old Fashioned,” which Philadelphia Magazine says is among the best alcohol-free sips on area menus currently, noting its barrel-aged espresso base gives it “a bourbon-like, oaky smoothness.”
🎳 Things to Do
🎶 The Music of Beyoncé and More for Kids: This kid-friendly show will feature music from the iconic artist. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 25, 11:45 a.m. 💵 $20.44 📍 Ardmore Music Hall
🎥 The Awful Truth: Catch a screening of this Cary Grant and Irene Dunne screwball comedy. ⏰ Wednesday, Jan. 28, 7:15 p.m. 💵 $11.75-$16.25 📍 Bryn Mawr Film Institute
The stone Colonial was built in 1925 and spans over 4,000 square feet.
Built in 1925, this spacious Wynnewood stone Colonial has a classic exterior and a contemporary updated interior. The home’s first floor features a living room with a fireplace, and a dining room that opens onto the kitchen, which has a waterfall peninsula with a breakfast bar. There are four bedrooms and three full bathrooms on the second floor, and a “bonus room” on the third floor. The home also has a finished basement with a half bathroom.
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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.
Swarthmore’s new mayor expects his background in emergency services management to be an asset in guiding the borough. Here’s why. Also this week, the former Crozer-Chester Medical Center has a new owner, a new bookstore specializing in rare and used books has opened in Swarthmore, plus an inclusive cafe that will employ individuals with disabilities is opening in Glen Mills. We’re also gearing up for a (potentially big) snowstorm this weekend. Follow along here for the latest forecast.
Conlen Booth was sworn in as mayor of Swarthmore earlier this month.
“If not me, then who?”
That was a phrase that kept running through Conlen Booth’s mind when contemplating whether he should run for mayor of Swarthmore. Despite initial reluctance, the Strath Haven High School grad felt he could do well in the role, thanks in part to his 25 years with the borough’s fire department, most recently as its chief.
The 42-year-old expects that experience to be valuable as Swarthmore and the surrounding communities continue to deal with the fallout from Crozer-Chester Medical Center’s closure last year. (Keep reading for more news out of Crozer-Chester.)
The former site of Crozer-Chester Medical Center has a new owner. Chariot Equities completed its $10 million purchase of the shuttered hospital yesterday and is hoping to have an agreement with a health system in the next six months to operate both a “right-sized” hospital and an emergency department there, with the first phase opening in the next two years.
Riddle Hospital got an additional $1 million in state funding this week, bringing its total to $4 million, funds that will allow for the hiring of more staff. The Media hospital, part of Main Line Health, has been allocated extra funding to help it handle an increase in patients after Crozer Health’s closure last year.
Media’s new mayor, Joi Washington, wrote a note to borough residents as she kicks off her term, highlighting her passion for walkability, community, and local businesses. As Washington settles into office, she also recently chatted with Philadelphia Magazine about how she ended up in the borough over a decade ago, its small-town feel, and her hopes for increasing pedestrian safety.
A new bookshop has opened in Swarthmore. Dirt Farm Books has taken over the space at 413 Dartmouth Ave., selling rare and used books. The shop, owned by borough resident John McIntyre, opened last week and specializes in 20th century literature, African American literature, and economics, with rare books making up about half its inventory. It also stocks an array of classics, manuscripts, and letters, and buys classic and rare booksfrom customers. The shop is currently open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s the second bookstore to open in the borough in recent months. Celia Bookshop opened at 102 Park Ave. in October.
More than a dozen Philadelphia Police Department employees live in Media’s 19063 zip code, according to a new Inquirer analysis. An increasing number of Philadelphia police employees — about a third of full-time staff — live outside the city, with 13 in Media, four in Wallingford, six in Swarthmore, and 18 in Springfield. See a map of where employees live here.
Renovations on the Swarthmore Veterans Memorial at the corner of Park and Dartmouth Avenues is scheduled to begin Monday. Plans call for restoring the memorial’s bronze plaques, adding ADA-accessible walkways and seating, updating benches, pavers, and landscaping, and adding a memorial garden. (The Swarthmorean)
Women’s apparel and accessories store Francesca’s, which has a location at Glen Eagle Square in Glen Mills, is reportedly closing its remaining stores after years of financial turmoil. Francesca’s filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in late 2020. (Fox Business)
Ever have a question about the area you can’t answer? Submit it to Curious Greater Media, and one of our reporters might track down the answer.
🏫 Schools Briefing
There are early dismissals tomorrow for two Rose Tree Media schools ahead of dances: Penncrest High will let out at 11 a.m. and kick off its freshman/sophomore dance at 7 p.m., and Springton Lake Middle School will finish classes at 11:50 a.m. and have its seventh and eighth grade winter semi-formal dance starting at 6:30 p.m. Penncrest will have a course selection night next Thursday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. See the district’s full calendar here.
Wallingford-Swarthmore has a school board meeting Monday at 7 p.m. and back-to-school night next Thursday. See the district’s full calendar here.
🍽️ On our Plate
A new cafe is coming to the Concordville Town Centre in Glen Mills. Ryan’s Rise Up Cafe is slated to open in March at 4 Evergreen Dr., where it will employ individuals with disabilities, as well as provide them with training and support. The cafe is the brainchild of Jim Vail, who wanted to create an inclusive space in the community for people like his 20-year-old son Ryan, who has Down syndrome. (CBS Philadelphia)
🎳 Things to Do
😂 Chris Nee Comedy Night: The local comedian will perform a Philly-forward set and film his comedy special A Trip Down Academy Lane. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m. 💵 $25 📍The Media Theatre
🛍️ Woman-Owned Business Pop-Up Market: More than two dozen women-owned businesses will gather this weekend for a pop-up market where you can shop, make a floral bouquet, or learn more about holistic wellness. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍Media Town Mall vestibule and Glimmer Gifts + Goods, Media
🧊 Ice on State: Browse works of art from Ice Sculpture Philly artists, watch live demonstrations, and listen to music at this family-friendly event. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 24-Sunday, Jan. 25, noon-5 p.m. 💵 Free 📍State Street, Media
🎺 Tri-State Jazz Society Concert: Jazz cornet and trumpet player Danny Tobias will headline this month’s concert. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 25, 2-4:30 p.m. 💵 $10 for members, $20 for non-members 📍Community Arts Center, Wallingford
🌻 Native Plants and Pollinators of Pennsylvania: Stoneleigh naturalist Samantha Nestory will discuss the importance of lesser-known native pollinators and the plants that help support them during this lecture. ⏰ Monday, Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. (snow date: Feb. 2) 💵 $10 for Gardners of Rose Valley members, $15 at the door📍 The Old Mill, Rose Valley
The living room has a brick fireplace and original hardwood floors.
Built in 1900, this Craftsman bungalow pays homage to its historic roots while incorporating modern upgrades. The first floor features a family room, a dining room, a living room with a brick fireplace, and a kitchen with a Viking range and green cabinetry. There are three bedrooms on the second floor, while the third floor contains the primary suite, which has a whirlpool tub and a skylight. The home also has a detached one-car garage and a fenced backyard. There’s an open house Saturday from noon to 2 p.m.
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.
While we all wait with bated breath to see who Jalen Hurts’ seventh offensive coordinator in seven years will be (technically, 11th if you count his college years), we’re going to switch gears and talk a little Sixers — specifically the timeshare that has transpired at the center position.
Both Andre Drummond and Adem Bona have been key contributors at the position, both under the backdrop of Joel Embiid, who, despite a litany of injuries, has been the constant at the position for the latter part of a decade.
So how do you compete with that? Well, according to both Drummond and Bona, you don’t; instead, you make the most of your minutes. Drummond, who has even been getting starting minutes recently, knows that “I probably won’t take my warmup pants off some games.”
And while you’d think it would be a battle of the big men trying to occupy minutes on the court, Drummond and Bona have become friends, reveling in each other’s moments, however fleeting or prosperous, night after night.
Inquirer writer Gina Mizell offers this rare look at selflessness on what’s shaping up to be a warmer day across the region, with highs expected to peak into the low 40s in many spots.
Ranger Suárez left the Phillies for a $130 million contract with the Red Sox.
Former Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez took the podium in a Red Sox jersey for the first time Wednesday when he was officially introduced at Fenway Park.
The 30-year-old Suárez, who signed with the Phillies as a 16-year-old from Venezuela and developed into an All-Star and key rotation piece, departed in free agency this winter. His five-year, $130 million contract with Boston became official Wednesday.
When prompted by a reporter at his introductory news conference, Suárez clarified the traditional Spanish pronunciation of his first name.
In a wide-ranging conversation on Phillies Extra, The Inquirer’s baseball show, Jesus Luzardo said he’s interested in discussing a contract extension with the Phillies and talked about his impressive first season with the team, J.T. Realmuto’s impact behind the plate, and more.
🏈 Answering: Why were so many people from Indiana University of Pennsylvania so excited about Indiana’s national championship win, even though IUP has no ties to IU?
Lane Pederson made his Flyers debut on Monday against the Vegas Golden Knights. It was his first NHL game since March 2023.
Lane Pederson has ridden a lot of buses in the American Hockey League over the last few years in pursuit of his dream to one day play in the NHL again.
On Monday, that persistence and those long, late-night slogs must have all felt worth it, as Pederson played in his first NHL game in almost three years when he suited up for the Flyers in Las Vegas. The 28-year-old, who signed with the Flyers this summer, hoped he’d get one more chance to prove he belongs at the top level, and he’s got it after Rodrigo Ābols suffered a long-term injury on Saturday.
Can Pederson stick on the fourth line with a coach he knows well in Rick Tocchet? No offense to Allentown, but the centerman hopes he won’t be returning to Lehigh Valley any time soon.
Cavan Sullivan is seen during a Union practice at Subaru Field in Chester. Tuesday, Jan 13, 2026.
There’s no need to remind Cavan Sullivan about all of the expectations placed on his now 16-year-old shoulders. He’s got plenty of reminders. It’s why this season, Sullivan says he’s focusing on the game and less on the pomp that comes with it.
The timing couldn’t be better as there’s a real chance he could see considerable minutes as an attacking midfield presence with the Union, a spot left vacant by his older brother Quinn, who suffered an ACL sprain last season.
Ahead of the team’s two-week trip to Spain, Cavan sat down with Tannenwald to talk about what could shape up to be a transformative season for the Union’s youngest pro talent.
On this date
Jan. 21, 2006: In Kobe Bryant’s legendary 81-point performance, he led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 122-105 win against Toronto. Bryant still holds the mark for the second-highest point total in a game behind Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game in 1962.
Standings, stats, and more
Want the full breakdown from last night’s Flyers game against the Mammoth? Here’s a place to access your favorite Philadelphia teams’ statistics, schedules, and standings in real time.
“[Howie] Roseman might be the best GM in the NFL over the last nine years, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to have the best roster in 2026. Any top OC candidate is looking at the Eagles job as a one-year stepping stone to the 2027 cycle of head-coaching vacancies. The 2026 Eagles are richly talented on paper, but they are saddled with far more questions than answers.” — The latest take from Hayes, who explores why the Eagles’ vacant offensive coordinator position doesn’t have a line around the block.
What you’re saying about the Phillies
We all know Bo Bichette isn’t headed to Philly. That seems to work out just fine for these Inquirer readers.
We asked: What are your thoughts on the Phillies missing out on Bo Bichette?
[I don’t care] about Bichette or anyone else while the flawed hero-culture core remains unchanged and unrepentant. Schwarber did a contract year showing, and we fell for it, as if his biggest night of last year didn’t follow that pathetic series shellacking by the Mets (who were not good). What’s more interesting is how much all the Philly teams have been whiffing on big new additions in recent years — most prominently right now, desirable OCs for the Eagles. The perpetual national media’s lambasting of our town and sports culture feels like it’s winning, and we’re at risk of becoming Pariahdelphia. — D.W. Stone
I believe it’s a great move on the Phillies to force them to start the process to go young. The fact that they did not make the run in September is due to the superstars not performing well. It’s now time to watch the development of the minor league players and analyze their improvement. You are not going to out-pay the Dodgers or Mets. Have fun watching new talent instead of Dave D trying to outspend our competitors. That has been Dave’s history on all his prior teams. — Dick F.
Losing Bichette is a Godsend. We win twice by not getting him. First, we can stop hearing about getting rid of Alec Bohm, whose performance is on par with Bichette, [and who] is young and still improving every year. And then they are able to pay and retain the best catcher in baseball, even though he is a ripe old 34 years old. This roster is much better overall. BTW, why has Bohm been on the trading block every single year? totally undeserved. — John W.
We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Rob Tornoe, David Murphy, Jeff McLane, Jeff Neiburg, Olivia Reiner, Gina Mizell, Scott Lauber, Ariel Simpson, Gabriela Carroll, Jonathan Tannenwald, Katie Lewis, Brooke Ackerman, and Jackie Spiegel.
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.
That’s it for today. Enjoy your Thursday. Jim will be back tomorrow to get you set for the weekend ahead.— Kerith
After scouring 120 menus offered for the 2026 edition of Center City District Restaurant Week, I will share some great values, old favorites, and even a few novel dishes that go beyond the same old. Read on for 26 dishes that caught my eye.
Restaurants are rethinking their menus amid a rise in the use of appetite-suppressing GLP-1 medications and a drop in alcohol consumption. These trends are on display at Philly-area bars and restaurants, and Erin McCarthy spoke to owners trying to keep up.
“If I closed my eyes, I could very well think I was dining at Le Virtù,” writes Kiki Aranita, who was, in fact, tucking into osso buco with goat cheese polenta, gremolata, and crispy potatoes at a senior-living community on the Main Line. Just try cracking the reservation book.
This Algerian-style beef couscous at Algerino’s in South Philadelphia impressed Craig LaBan. Also on our plates last week: lomo saltado from Kiko’s in Collingswood and a beef rendang hoagie from Sego, a street cart in Center City.
Scoops
Scarpetta is on its way out of the Rittenhouse after nearly a decade. The new occupant will be the Ruxton, a posh steakhouse from Baltimore’s Atlas Restaurant Group, owners of Center City’s Loch Bar. The Ruxton is not due till 2027. From February through July, chef RJ Smith of the hot Ocho Supper Club will be in residency at the space. Read on for the details.
Harlem Shake, the cult-favorite New York burger-and-shake concept, is looking at December for its opening at 1330 Walnut St. Restaurateur Jelena Pasic says she founded Harlem Shake in 2013 to honor disappearing community landmarks such as Lenox Lounge and M&J Diner, bringing on chef/food writer J. Kenji López-Alt to develop the menu of pasture-raised beef burgers, organic milkshakes, fries, and sodas. She says the space will be a full build-out, including a mezzanine, but that it will not include a bar — unlike previous occupants such as Level Up and Toasted Walnut. Pasic told me she would rather target clubgoers and downtown diners looking for a high-quality late bite. This will be a franchise location, operated by Shakawat Hossain.
Love City Brewing is making a move to Manayunk for a second location, as Jenn Ladd reports among other brews news.
Restaurant report
Mac Mart, the mac-and-cheese specialist, closed up shop in Rittenhouse Square. Sisters Marti Lieberman and Pam Lorden have turned up three blocks away in a kiosk, where they offer not only bowls but a broader food mission.
The reservation book for Greg Vernick’s new Italian restaurant Emilia just opened, in advance of its opening Monday in Frankford-Kensington. Longtime Vernick chef Meredith Medoway will run the show. Here’s the backstory.
An entrepreneur wanted to bring fresh doughnuts, soft serve, and coffee to his hometown. It’s called Happy Place Homemade.
Briefly noted
Sontuosa, chef Ernesto Guzman’s fusion BYOB in Bryn Mawr, has closed after nine years. He didn’t return a message seeking comment.
The Rook on 4th, a sandwich shop in Olde Kensington, has closed after a year and a half. Management, which has locations in Manayunk and Wildwood as well as a catering arm, calls it “a step forward” on social media.
Pops Trattoria in Audubon, N.J., closed Sunday, in advance of a move to a still-undisclosed location.
Frank P. Olivieri, who ran Pat’s King of Steaks for decades and was the son and uncle of its founders, died Sunday. Here’s the obit.
The two locations of Bomba ¡Tacos + Tequila!will show off their new look with open houses from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at 2930 S. Eagle Rd. in Newtown and on Feb. 15 at the Grove (30 Liberty Blvd.) in Malvern. Expect comp tastings of new dishes, tequilas, and cocktails (ages 21+, of course).
Cantina la Martina is collaborating with the Lighthouse to host its fourth annual La Tamalada, a family-friendly festival, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 1 at 101 E. Erie Ave. Lineup includes tamales ($6 each), music, drinks, and activities including games, artisan vendors, hayrides, barrel rides, and a petting zoo. Some vendors are cash only, and parking is $10.
Nominations for the Tasties, the restaurant awards handed out by the Delicious City podcast, are closed. So now we wait for the gala, at Live Casino on Feb. 1, where winners in nine categories will be unveiled. New this year is the Future Tastemaker Award, a hospitality scholarship recognizing rising stars under age 30 with $1,000 grants. The evening promises lots of food and drink; tickets are still available.
❓Pop quiz
The internet seems obsessed with what new fast-food restaurant in the city?
Bar Lesieur on Sansom Street is now “the Lesieur.” What’s that about? — Steve H.
A rep for the Schulson Collective calls it “merely a name change to equally emphasize the overall dining experience — food and drink.“ The restaurant opened in November 2023 as a French bar above Schulson’s subterranean Italian spot Giuseppe & Sons, but it is now billed as a French steakhouse.
📮 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.
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Daniel H. Weiss took the reins as director and CEO of the troubled Art Museum two months ago. In an interview with The Inquirer, he said he’s eager to quickly take action, employing a philosophy of “shared governance.”
Recent weeks have proved messy for the museum. The controversial rebranding campaign and the ouster of Sasha Suda cast an air of acrimony from within the museum, as well as a shadow on the art.
Weiss is prepared to turn that around.
In Weiss’ own words: “What I’d like to do over the next six months to one year is to get everybody excited about what’s possible, what we already have. How, by supporting each other and investing excitedly in our mission, we can do something really important.”
Another shake-up: The Philadelphia Art Museum’s marketing chief has resigned. The museum is now mulling over whether to keep or alter the rebrand.
In a new legal filing, the University of Pennsylvania pushed back against a federal commission’s demand that would require it to turn over lists of Jewish students and staff.
Penn’s latest move follows a lawsuit from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which sued the university for not complying with a subpoena seeking such information.
The EEOC has pressed the institution for the data as part of a federal investigation into antisemitism on campus. Penn called the request “unconstitutional, disconcerting,” and “unnecessary.”
A coalition of building trades unions will loan the Philadelphia Housing Authority $50 million to help redevelop Brith Sholom House, a dilapidated senior apartment complex in West Philadelphia.
Frank P. Olivieri — whose father and uncle invented the steak sandwich and who ran Pat’s King of Steaks for nearly four decades — died Sunday at 87. He had been under care for dementia.
A Philadelphia police officer opened fire on a man Monday night after the man critically injured another person in Hunting Park, police said. The man, police said, was not hit.
SEPTA Regional Rail riders experienced significant delays Tuesday after a train pulled down overhead wires. Riders are advised to check SEPTA’s website and mobile app for the latest updates as crews work to repair the wires.
A disabled Ecuadorian immigrant who was arrested and detained by ICE after he flagged down an officer in September was ordered back to his homeland on Tuesday. The Seaford, Del., resident’s case drew support from Gov. Matt Meyer.
Mikie Sherrill was sworn in as New Jersey governor Tuesday, becoming the second woman to govern the state and the first from the Democratic Party. And in his last full day in office, Phil Murphy signed a bill making cursive writing instruction mandatory for some elementary students in public schools.
A Philly charter school is starting its own college so kids can graduate with high school diplomas and college credits — for free.
PennDot is nearing the end of conceptual design for a proposed project to improve interchanges along a 7.5-mile stretch of U.S. Route 30 in Chester County. Construction would start in roughly a decade.
🧠Trivia time
A recent analysis found that while this Philadelphia-area county draws in business, people struggle to afford to live there.
Cheers to Liz Kelly, who solved Sunday’s anagram: Mandy Mango. She was recently eliminated from RuPaul Drag’s Race, but remains a star at home in Philly.
Photo of the day
From left is Mestre Kamau playing the Berimbau and Zubayr Ade playing congo drum. Zubayr’s mother, Alisha Wiley, is at far right. They are representing Fica Philly Capoeira Angola at the 31st annual Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service.
👋🏽 Thanks for stopping by. Have a good day, OK? Julie will bring you tomorrow’s news.
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Some of the members of the cast of “Steel Magnolias” have known each other for decades.
People’s Light in Malvern kicked off its latest performance on Sunday with the debut of Steel Magnolias, which runs through Feb. 15. Much like the characters in the show, the cast and director bringing them to life have surprisingly long and deep connections.
Some have known each other for 50 years and have overlapped in at least a dozen shows recently. They believe those connections are an asset on stage as they portray women who show both vulnerability and support for one another, something they imagine will strike a chord with today’s audiences.
PennDot is nearing completion of a new design for proposed changes along a 7.5-mile stretch of U.S. 30 impacting the communities of Caln, East Brandywine, Easttown, West Brandywine, Uwchlan, and Downingtown. The plan calls for widening the road by up to 35 feet and introducing flexible use lanes. Construction on the $874 million project isn’t expected to start until spring 2034.
The Chester County Economic Development Council held its 22nd annual economic outlook last week, analyzing the local, national, and global economic landscape. With generally low consumer sentiment across the nation, experts advised local businesses that there could be an uptick come tax refund time. The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz has several other key takeaways from the event, including on affordability, and recent job and population growth.
Dozens of Philadelphia Police Department employees live in Chester County, according to a new Inquirer analysis, which shows about a third of full-time staff live outside the city. The largest concentrations in Chesco are in Coatesville (18), West Grove (13), West Chester (eight), Avondale, Downingtown, and Phoenixville (six each), and Malvern (five). See a map of where employees live here.
West Chester nonprofit Friends Association is marking the opening of its new family shelter and office today. The new facility, located at 825 Paoli Pike in West Chester, will provide emergency housing for families in need. It has 10 apartments consisting of two- and three-bedroom units, which more than doubles the organization’s housing capacity from six families to 16.
💡 Community News
Developer Stonewall Capital has closed on its purchase of a 187-acre tract of land in New Garden Township, making way for it to build a $300 million mixed-use project with 622 residential units and 115,000 square feet of commercial space. While there has been pushback from some residents, Township Manager Christopher Himes said the development will add more affordable housing to the region. (Philadelphia Business Journal)
On Friday, Rendell Hoagland, 54, of West Caln, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the death of his daughter, Malinda, who died in May 2024 from severe malnutrition. Hoagland and his fiancee, Cindy Marie Warren, allegedly tortured the 12-year-old for months before her death. Hoagland will be confined in prison for life without the possibility of parole, while Warren, who is also charged with first-degree murder and related crimes, is scheduled for a pretrial hearing in May.
Herman “Pluck” McMullen of Coatesville was sentenced earlier this month to nine to 18 years in state prison for drug dealing. McMullen was arrested in 2024 in connection with the so-called “Bad Bunny” drug ring, helping transport fentanyl-laced heroin that led to multiple fatal overdoses from Philadelphia to Coatesville.
Municipalities throughout Chester County were recently awarded over $6 million from the state’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants, which will go toward land acquisitions, park improvements, and plenty of pickleball courts. Some notable fund allocations will go to: Natural Lands to help it pay for over 21 acres of passive recreation and open space in Newlin Township ($1.2 million); Caln Township to develop the next phase of the planned 3-mile Beaver Creek Trail ($472,500); rehabilitation and development of Towpath Park in East Coventry Township ($330,000); additional development of East Fallowfield Township Community Park, including pickleball courts and pedestrian walkways ($250,000); work on Nichol Park in London Britain Township, including pickleball courts and pedestrian walkways ($121,600); new play equipment at Kenilworth Park in North Coventry Township ($119,900); construction of pickleball courts, a dog park, and a pedestrian walkway at Layton Park in West Caln Township ($250,000); and construction of pedestrian walkways, a pavilion, and pickleball courts at West Nantmeal Park ($250,000). Westtown Township also received $75,000 to help it develop a comprehensive plan for Crebilly Preserve and the county received $500,000 toward the rehabilitation design of the Downingtown Trestle.
Two other parcels of land are being preserved in the county. Nonprofit Natural Lands has preserved 23.4 acres in East Bradford Township under a conservation easement. And Schuylkill Township recently completed its $17 million purchase of the 64.7-acre Sedgley Farm property, bringing a nearly 20-year effort to preserve the land, which is also home to the historic William Reeves House, to a close. The township will embark on plans for the property, which is not currently open to the public.
Pocopson Township is gearing up to form a Comprehensive Plan Task Force and is seeking two community members to provide input throughout the process. The township’s most recent comprehensive plan was adopted in 2014.
The Oxford Area Historical Association is planning to purchase its longtime home at 119 S. 5th St. in Oxford, the former site of the Union School building, after getting a $700,000 investment from the state. The organization plans to continue developing the location into a “gateway for regional tourism.”
Chester Road between South Fairfield and South Waterloo Roads in Easttown Township will be closed to regular traffic tomorrow, Friday, and Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for sewer work. Residents will be asked by the inspector to limit water usage during work on their section.
Friday is the last day for Malvern Borough residents to submit a request to have a shade tree planted this spring.
Claranda Tay Candles Co. has opened a brick-and-mortar at 9 N. 2nd Ave. in Coatesville. The brand sells elaborate candles that look like desserts and will offer candle-making classes and events at its new shop.
Nightingale Materials, the art supply and gift store on North High Street in West Chester, plans to close its doors on March 15.
🏫 Schools Briefing
Kennett Consolidated School District’s board of school directors approved the 2026-27 instructional calendar last week, which you can see here. Classes will start about a week later, on Aug. 31, but end around the same time. The district has also done away with one October closure and an in-service day.
West Chester Area School District has released course selection and course guides for next school year for students in sixth through 12th grade.
🍽️ On our Plate
A new dim sum joint has opened in West Chester. Located at 127 W. Gay St., Dim Sum Taste specializes in Shanghai cuisine and offers an array of dumplings, stir-fries, and other dishes.
Consumers’ dining habits have changed in recent years, whether for financial reasons or because of the growing use of GLP-1 drugs. Stove & Co. is seeing smaller tabs at some of its more casual spots (it operates Al Pastor in Exton, Stove & Tap in West Chester, and Revival Pizza Pub in Chester Springs), with diners foregoing things like appetizers, a second drink, and dessert. That’s not the case at its steakhouse Joey Chops, though.
🎳 Things to Do
🎤 Sugar Mountain: Musicians will pay tribute to Neil Young by performing some of his most iconic songs. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 23, 7:30 p.m. 💵 $41-$60 📍 Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, West Chester
🎶 Name That Tune Trivia Night: Test your musical knowledge at this trivia night, where individuals and teams of four can compete. There will also be music from The Holts. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 24, 6 p.m. 💵 $12 for individuals, $40 for teams 📍 Steel City Coffeehouse & Brewery, Coatesville
🧘 Beer & Yoga: Start your morning with this all-levels yoga class, followed by a beer. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 25, 10-11 a.m. 💵 $20 📍 Victory Brewing Downingtown
The home has an outdoor living space complete with a TV, gas fireplace, and motorized screens.
This spacious Kennett Square home provides plenty of room to spread out. The first floor features an open-concept dining and living area complete with a fireplace, a formal living room, and a modern kitchen with a waterfall quartz island. An adjoining breakfast room leads to one of the home’s most impressive features: an outdoor living space with motorized screens, a TV, a gas fireplace, and heat lamps. There are four bedrooms on the upper level, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and sitting room, while the walk-out lower level, which has a bar and theater room, has space for another suite.
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.
What would you do to find a long-lost piece of a parent’s past? One Cherry Hill teen has spent four years on such a quest. Here’s why. Also this week, work is underway for a 64-unit affordable apartment project, plus there are more changes at the mall.
Cherry Hill High School East junior Charlotte Astor is on the hunt for a copy of her mom’s long-lost demo.
A Cherry Hill teenager has embarked on an unlikely journey to find a demo tape her mom recorded with her hardcore band more than 30 years ago.
Charlotte Astor, a 16-year-old East student, has gone down something of a rabbit hole in search of a tangible connection to her mom’s youth, turning up leads across the country.
Everything Astor knows about her 47-year-old mom is from stories, but she wants something more. Astor’s quest has connected her with hundreds of people who have tried to help locate one of just a few dozens copies of the tape, made shortly before the group broke up.
Township tax bills for the first half of 2026 will be sent out Friday, and residents will have extra time to pay them due to the delayed mailing. There will bean extended grace period until Feb. 18.
Work is underway to clear a vacant former residential property at 1991 Route 70 East near Wexford Leas Swim Club. A developer plans to build 64 affordable apartments, including 52 senior independent-living apartments and 12 units for those needing supportive care. (70 and 73)
A few mall updates: The Dick’s House of Sport is starting to take shape, with steel framing now rising at the site of the former One Cherry Hill office building. The 120,000-square-foot store is slated to open sometime this year. And inside the mall, plus-size women’s clothing brand Torrid and accessories and apparel retailer Michael Kors recently closed their doors. (42 Freeway)
The township is hosting two meetings in the next week where residents 55 and older can provide feedback on the ongoing senior needs assessment. About a third of the township’s residents are 55 and older, so officials want to understand their specific needs. The meetings will take place at the library tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Tuesday from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
🏫 Schools Briefing
There’s a preschool information session tonight at 6:30 p.m. at West’s new auditorium. And on Tuesday, the Board of Education will host a meeting at 6:30 p.m. See the district’s full calendar here.
The school district is currently looking to expand its experiential learning program for seniors and is seeking businesses to offer internship-like experiences. Juniors apply and interview for positions and the program runs from September to March. Learn more about the program here.
🍽️ On our Plate
Multinational bakery chain Paris Baguette is targeting a March 15 opening for its Garden State Park location. Known for its pastries, breads, and cakes, the cafe will be located at 951 Haddonfield Rd. next to Nordstrom Rack. (South Jersey Food Scene)
🛼 Soda Pop Boba Skate Party: K-Pop fans won’t want to miss this themed skate party, which will feature the popular Korean music, along with Top 40 hits. Popping boba flights will also be available for $9. ⏰ Friday, Jan. 23, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 💵 $14 admission, plus $6 skate rental 📍Hot Wheelz
☪️ Create and Celebrate: Kids ages 7 to 12 can make crafts inspired by Muslim culture and traditions as part of the library’s Muslim Heritage Month for Kids series. Registration is required. ⏰ Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m.-noon 💵 Free 📍Cherry Hill Public Library
🎶 Wicked Drag Brunch: Performers will dress as characters from the iconic Broadway show-turned-movie and belt out favorite tunes. ⏰ Sunday, Jan. 25, 2:30-5 p.m. 💵 $19.03 📍Vera
This five-bedroom Voken Tract home has undergone a full makeover, giving it a sleek and bright interior offset by black accents. The home has a living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a wine bar, and an open-concept dining and sitting area that flows into the kitchen, which features a 12-foot island, white cabinetry, quartz countertops, a stone-tiled backsplash, and professional-grade appliances. There are five bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet, soaking tub, and double vanity. Other features include a finished basement, an in-ground pool, and outdoor dining and entertaining areas.
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.
On Monday, America — some of it, anyway — paused to celebrate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who would have turned 97 this month. In one sense, there’s never been a rougher time for the legacy of the slain civil rights icon, with the U.S. Supreme Court perhaps poised to gut the 1965 Voting Rights Act and a president who barely acknowledged the holiday. But thousands of everyday Americans now resisting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are channeling the spirit of the man who said one has “a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws.” Happy belated birthday, Dr. King.
Dems, stop trying to make ICE better. Make them go away.
Aliya Rahman is detained Jan. 13 by federal agents near the Minneapolis street corner where Renee Good was fatally shot by an ICE officer.
Imagine this … and if you watch the daily stream of videos coming from the ICE raids that have roiled Minnesota since the start of the new year, it’s not that hard to imagine.
You’re minding your own business, or maybe picking up your kid at their school, when suddenly you find yourself in the middle of a platoon of masked, armed, camouflaged government agents. One thing leads to another, and in a flash, an agent has wrestled you to the ground, and is brandishing a weapon — maybe a Taser … if you’re lucky.
But what if I told you that lawmakers on Capitol Hill have a solution? They are proposing a brave new world, where now — flat on your back and gasping for air, and perhaps able to bravely manage to free your phone from your pocket — you could scan a federally mandated QR code on the agent’s uniform and find out the identity of the man who is currently pummeling you to within an inch of your life.
You’re probably thinking the same thing I did when I read about New York Rep. Ritchie Torres’ new bill he called the Quick Recognition (get it?) Act, which is his big idea for how Democrats can respond to public anger over the murder of Minneapolis mom Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent, and the raidsthat have led to violent encounters and made a major U.S. metropolis look and feel like a war zone.
A four-word sentence that begins with, “What the actual …?”
“There is nothing the Trump administration fears more than transparency and accountability,” a spokesperson for Torres, who faces a primary challenge, in part, because of his outspoken views on Gaza, said recently.
Really? Is that true? Because everything I’ve seen is that Donald Trump is mainly terrified about a GOP bloodbath in the November midterms, which would surely lead to his impeachment, his eventual disgrace, and even a shot at the real accountability that takes place only behind prison bars. But that’s not going to happen unless Democrats can convince those midterm voters they are serious about dismantling the rotten system that murdered Good — so there are no bad guys left to scan.
It’s tempting to write off Torres’ idea as one stray piece of almost comically misguided legislation. But the truth is that his core idea — that what’s evolved during the Trump era into an American secret police force that folks like Joe Rogan and Bruce Springsteen are openly calling “the Gestapo” can be tweaked into something great — isendorsed by Democratic leaders in Congress and many rank-and-file members.
“Clearly, significant reform needs to take place as it relates to the manner in which ICE is conducting itself,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D., N.Y.) told MS Now, bloodlessly. “ICE is using taxpayer dollars to brutalize American citizens and to unnecessarily and viciously target law-abiding immigrant families and communities.”
So you’re going to halt the flow of those taxpayer dollars, right?
Right?
Actually, many key Democrats — facing a Jan. 30 deadline for new appropriation bills — say they are willing to keep the dollars flowing to the embattled and increasingly unpopular agency, but with hopes of leveraging the Minneapolis controversy in return for major reforms. Sen. Chris Murphy (D., Conn.), who has been a leading critic of the Trump regime, has suggested banning masks, mandating badges, requiring warrants to make an arrest, and returning Border Patrol agents to the border.
Most critics of ICE, Border Patrol, and any other immigration raiders under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security would agree that all of those things should have happened yesterday. But the lack of appetite for utterly dismantling the DHS regime — despite its culture of violence and disrespect for law-abiding refugees — reminds too many voters of the cowardice that branded the Dems as losers in the first place.
Progressive attorney Aaron Regunberg mocked the stance of some mainstream Democrats as: “We are the resistance. We are also negotiating furiously to figure out how to fully fund the Gestapo.” He’s right. Under Trump, with recruitment ads inspired by white nationalist memes, ICE has become a tool of a new American fascism.
You don’t “significantly reform” fascism. You need to crush it. As Andrea Pitzer, who literally wrote the book on the history of concentration camps, noted Monday night, “The correct response to Dachau was not better training for the guards.”
It’s telling that — as often is the case — everyday people are way out in front of the supposedly opposition Democrats. The latest polls show that a strong majority of Americans oppose Trump’s immigration policies — with just 38% approving of them in a new AP-NORC poll, down sharply — and that, for the first time, a plurality would like to see ICE (which has only existed since 2003) eliminated. No wonder the number of Americans who now identify as liberal — 28% — is the highest since Gallup began asking in the early 1990s.
And yes, more Democratic officials are starting to get it than ever before. More than 100 members of the House Progressive Caucus said last week that they won’t vote for any budget bill with additional funding for the immigration raid agencies without an end to their militarized policing. Arizona Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego, who seemed to tack right on immigration issues in winning a close election in 2024, surprised political observers when he declared this weekend in a CNN interview that “I think ICE needs to be totally torn down.”
Note that he didn’t say “abolish” — a word that causes Democrats to break out in hives. That’s OK. Call it a teardown, or a demolition, but every day, more Americans can see that the United States would function better without ICE — as it did the first 227 years of its history — and with the work that’s actually needed, like arresting the sliver of immigrants who really are violent criminals, given to all new people.
The problem is that Democratic fecklessness isn’t limited to just the future of ICE. Our European allies are disappointed that the opposition party isn’t out manning the barricades and calling for much more forceful action to curb Trump’s bat-guano crazy demand for Greenland, apparently because he feels slighted by not getting the Nobel Peace Prize. And sure, Americans want lower coffee prices, but they care more about not having Captain Queeg with the nuclear football.
Dismantling the ICE regime needs to be the floor, not the ceiling, and any Democrat in Congress who doesn’t get with the program can — and should — be replaced in the primaries to avoid another debacle with alienated or apathetic voters in November. Call your member and find out where they stand. You won’t even need a QR code.
Yo, do this!
I didn’t feel a compelling need to memorialize one year of Trump’s second presidency, since that’s kind of what we do here every week. But M. Gessen, the Russian émigré whose understanding of how authoritarians rule has been a blessing for American readers, did write the piece that captures the fierce urgency of now. Their new New York Times column (gift link) calls on us to use our freedoms before they totally disappear. “The only way to keep the space from imploding is to fill it, to prop up the walls: to claim all the room there still is for speaking, writing, publishing, protesting, voting,” they wrote. “It’s what the people of Minnesota appear to be doing, and it’s something each of us needs to do — right now, while we still can.”
In a month of short, frigidly cold days, with a deteriorating political situation, the Eagles’ one-and-done, and up-and-too-often-down 76ers and Flyers, my main source of pleasure is getting under several blankets and watching football games in which I don’t much care who wins. The NFL playoffs, minus the Birds’ fiasco and one or two clunkers, have been the most compelling drama on TV in years. Don’t miss Sunday’s Final Four: Patriots-Broncos (CBS) followed by Rams-Seahawks (Fox), kicking off at 3 p.m.
Ask me anything
Question: One question that is top of my mind is “does this week feel like a tipping point?” Can’t shake the feeling that it is. — Marguerite Fahey (@margueritefahey@bsky.social) via Bluesky
Answer: Marguerite, I got several variations of your question, so this is definitely on the minds of folks. But while Trump’s bizarre actions surrounding Greenland have raised questions about the president’s fitness to hold office on a level we’ve never seen before, including Watergate, it is less clear what affirmative actions can take place. It’s impossible to imagine the lackeys in Trump’s cabinet, like Kristi Noem, ever green-lighting the 25th Amendment, let alone the 20 GOP Senate votes that would be required to remove the president in an impeachment. An increasingly likely possibility is high-ranking generals refusing a Trump order to send troops to Greenland or Minnesota. Yes, it has come to this.
What you’re saying about …
Sometimes, readers of this newsletter still surprise me. While most of you are righteously appalled at the immigration raid abuses in Minnesota and elsewhere, many still want to see major reforms at ICE and its sister agencies rather than abolishing them altogether. “ICE doesn’t need to be abolished,” Ed Truncale wrote. “ICE is like a child that has lost their way and needs to be disciplined, redirected.” Cathie Cush agreed. “I’d feel a lot more comfortable with ‘Demilitarize ICE’ and ‘Demilitarize the police,’” she wrote. “And make them accountable. And reduce their ranks.”
📮 This week’s question: Donald Trump’s increasingly aggressive demands for Greenland have not only threatened the post-World War II global order but raised legitimate mental health questions about the commander of the world’s largest military. But how can Europe, Democrats, and any remaining sane Republicans respond to this? Please email me your answer and put the exact phrase “Greenland response” in the subject line.
History lesson on America’s betrayal of the Hmong
ChongLy “Scott” Thao, a U.S. citizen, sits in his St. Paul, Minn., home Monday, the day after federal agents broke open his door and detained him without a warrant.
A long time ago, on the other side of the world, began what would become a fraught relationship between the Hmong tribal people of northern Laos and the United States, as represented by the CIA. At the dawn of the 1960s, American spies recruited the Hmong to fight communism in their homeland and neighboring Vietnam, which proved a disastrous bet. Thousands died in the next 13 years of combat in Southeast Asia, and more would perish when the communists took over Laos in 1975, while others dodged bullets, swimming the Mekong River toward overcrowded refugee camps in Thailand.
Fifty years ago, the United States was led by people who at least understood our deep debt to the Hmong, forged in blood. Thousands who’d escaped the slaughter were eventually resettled in the United States, and Minnesota — aided by Lutherans and other religious charities and good public housing, and despite its frigid weather — became an unlikely magnet. Today, a population of 94,000 people, with a slightly higher average salary than the state as a whole, and including the mayor of St. Paul, the state capital, makes Minnesota home to the largest U.S. Hmong population.
It’s an immigration success story that makes the events of recent days beyond baffling. In one Minneapolis neighborhood this weekend, a witness reported that roving ICE agents who have flooded the metropolis pulled over a car and asked the driver, “Where the Hmongs at?” St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her said: “We’ve received reports of ICE officers going door to door asking where the Asian people live … I myself have received advice to carry my passport with me because they may target me based on what I look like.”
On Sunday, federal agents broke down the front door of a St. Paul home and took away ChongLy “Scott” Thao, also known as Saly, a Hmong American who was born in a Laotian refugee camp but is a U.S. citizen after living most of his life here. A photo of the man being led out of the house — wearing only boxer shorts and Crocs on a bitterly cold day, a plaid blanket hastily thrown over his exposed torso — went viral on social media. Family members said ICE agents drove Thao around for an hour while they questioned him, but brought him back home when they realized he was a naturalized citizen with no criminal record. Still, the episode was traumatizing, and it epitomized the big question hanging over all of this.
What is this even for? ICE’s harsh and disruptive focus on the Hmong people of Minnesota — people who were brought here because of their support for America in wartime, with the encouragement of the federal government as well as their new prairie neighbors — makes absolutely no sense. A people who suffered in their homeland for their ties to the United States are now facing new torment in their adoptive land — judged not for the content of their character, but for the color of their skin. This is a new, shameful moment in American history.
What I wrote on this date in 2021
Looking back at the dawn of what’s proved to be a painful decade for America can be difficult. Tuesday is the fifth anniversary of Joe Biden’s inauguration as the 46th president, and like most Americans, I had thoughts and prayers that the deep stain of Donald Trump’s lawbreaking first term could be erased. On Jan. 20, 2021, I predicted we’d understand “this nation will not have peace without justice. That empathy is empty without accountability. And that American carnage cannot be healed until we can handle the truth.” Yeah, how did that work out? Read the rest: “After four years of ‘American carnage,’ President Joe Biden gets it: Truth must come before healing.”
Recommended Inquirer reading
With so much happening, I did an NFL coin-toss move and elected to defer my Martin Luther King Jr. holiday day off until some warmer, happier time. In my Sunday column, I looked at how economic pressure campaigns against U.S. corporations aiding Trump’s immigration policies, like Avelo Airlines — which halted ICE deportation flights after months of protests and boycotts — are starting to make a difference. With boycotts getting results at firms like Disney and Spotify, can Americans do more to vote with their wallets? Over the weekend, I dug into CBS News and its new Trump-friendly regime headed by Bari Weiss, and how its slanted journalism — including a highly inflammatory and factually dubious story about the Minneapolis ICE shooting — is a bad sign for the future of democracy.
We now know Trump told Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro not to run for president, which normally would be tantamount to an endorsement. But that disclosure — which comes from the governor’s new autobiography, Where We Keep the Light, that is also functioning as a curtain-raiser on Shapiro’s 2028 presidential ambitions — might have been a rare case of good advice from The Donald. The Inquirer’s crack political team is already all over the book and its fallout, including Shapiro’s controversial claim that aides to Kamala Harris — vetting him as a potential 2024 running mate — asked the Jewish governor if he was “a double agent” for Israel. The book is already generating backlash and some TV punditry that Shapiro’s once-rising star has dimmed, but the broader implication remains clear. One way or the other, the road to the 48th presidency runs through Pennsylvania, and the best way to keep up is to follow our in-depth coverage in The Inquirer. Subscribe today and get on the bandwagon.
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