Good morning, Philadelphia.

Temple University’s Community Gateway program connects local residents with job training, education, healthcare and small business support; its four local staff members have helped more than 3,400 people since May 2024—programs include dual enrollment for high school students and community job training. The university will expand volunteer and board training opportunities along Broad Street as it continues to meet local needs.

Officials reported that gun violence in Philly has reached record lows in 2025 so far.

School districts have spent millions on secret special education settlements that have not fixed the issues.

At SCI Phoenix today, inmate Nathan Blose is on trial for allegedly strangling cellmate Jason Joyce who said he begged for help as he was held in a chokehold that injured him, and Blose will later face charges for the fatal attack on another inmate.

Philadelphia recorded 134 homicides through July—far fewer than the 319 reported during the same period in 2021—even as high-profile shootings injured children and teens this summer, and police maintained a 92% clearance rate while continuing efforts to boost community safety.

School districts in the region paid millions in secret settlements over special education cases without fixing the programs that families say are failing their kids.

Affluent parents are more likely to hire lawyers and sue while districts use settlements as a cost-effective option (some districts reported paying over $5 million in agreements).

SEPTA faces a $213 million fiscal cliff that may force a 45% cut in service and a 21.5% fare hike—actions that could disrupt millions of daily trips ahead of major events like the World Cup in 2026.

City leaders warn that without new state funding, Philadelphia risks a transit collapse that could harm its economy and quality of life.

Philadelphia 76ers fans have not received a new update on Joel Embiid's knee recovery since his April procedure, leaving questions on whether he will be ready for training camp.

The team and Embiid have kept details private — no clear timeline has been given.

Bengals coach Zac Taylor said Joe Burrow and his starters will play several series in the preseason opener on Thursday while Eagles boss Nick Sirianni kept his plans secret, breaking past trends when key offensive players were kept off the field.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts said he is ready for any play time as the game will test new strategies—adding a competitive edge to both teams.

Eagles rookie Jihaad Campbell impressed coaches at training camp with his fast, explosive play under coach Nick Sirianni’s system—he aims to earn a starting role this season while adding youth and versatility to the linebacker unit.

Campbell is expected to grow into a key part of the defensive strategy as he adjusts to a scheme that values quick reactions and spatial control.