Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
Good morning, Philadelphia.
WHYY News marked a busy 2025 by launching a WhatsApp project for Latino communities, hosting civic dialogue events that reached 1.5 million people, and expanding pop-up newsrooms in Philadelphia.
It will launch new projects—like a weekly podcast and SMS alert system—in 2026.
Yesterday, Philadelphia’s 2026 Mummers Parade took place on Broad Street while high winds (30 mph) forced officials to postpone the string band competition after props were damaged and five people injured.
Bands marched with shortened routines to celebrate the city’s folk tradition.
After the Mummers Parade and Realign and Renew yoga class on Jan.
1, Philly began 2026 with a slate of events starting today with First Fridays at The Barnes and Philadelphia Art Museum—while the weeklong Philly Loves Bowie Week and other shows promise more local culture over the coming days.
A 93-year-old grandmother from Wales landed in Philadelphia Tuesday and received a VIP tour of the Mummers Museum on Wednesday; she will join the parade on Broad Street Thursday (a trip arranged by her family to honor her late husband's memory).
New Year's Day began with the 125th Mummers Parade outside City Hall — frigid winds postponed the string band competition, but marchers still performed in full costume along Broad Street.
During the Mummers Parade yesterday, a couple married in an impromptu ceremony organized by their string band on Market Street (braving cold and crowds) as the audience cheered while they marched down Broad Street.
Mayor Parker led the Mummers String Bands down Market Street Thursday, reviving a custom she restarted last year.
Band official Sam Regalbuto said the group is pleased with the mayor's support & plans to continue the tradition.
Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter shows quick instincts and steady tackles as he prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Philadelphia fans wonder if the Eagles will continue the Trotter legacy with a potential pick in April.
In 2025, Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper dealt with a wrist injury that contributed to a 27-home run season and lower OPS, prompting team president Dave Dombrowski to call it 'not elite' (Harper remains central as he aims to rebound in 2026).
After finishing offseason moves with a new right fielder and set-up man, the Phillies ready themselves for the season.
Aaron Nola aims to return to form, the former 'Daycare' trio vows to avoid slow starts, and young hitters Justin Crawford + Andrew Painter are set to compete in 2026.
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