Good morning, Philadelphia.

Philadelphia’s most demolished street West Monmouth lost almost 40% of its houses since 2007 because unsafe conditions led to repeated demolitions.

Cleanup efforts remain inconsistent—property owners must clear trash or face city enforcement, leaving empty lots cluttered with abandoned vehicles and debris.

Two armed men robbed a Brinks truck outside an H Mart in Elkins Park on Tuesday and stole between $700,000 and $800,000—Cheltenham Township police are investigating links to four similar armored vehicle heists across the area this summer.

Philadelphia police arrested 21-year-old Daquan Brown on Aug.

12 at a house on Marston Street in Grays Ferry in connection with the July mass shooting that left three men dead and 10 people injured—Brown faces charges of murder, attempted murder and weapons offenses.

A report by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania showed that private colleges contributed more than $29 billion to local communities in 2024, created about 195,120 jobs, and generated $1.5 billion in state and local taxes.

The study noted that including teaching hospitals, their impact rose to $65.6 billion—emphasizing their role in fields such as nursing, teaching, and STEM.

Philadelphia finalized an agreement that transfers the 10-foot bronze Frank Rizzo statue back to the supporter committee, with the city agreeing to pay $80,000 for damage caused during its removal in June 2020—based on a deal that restricts the statue to display only on private property behind a fence or wall. The committee now plans to refurbish the statue and is in talks with city officials about a future home on public land—any change requiring written approval from the mayor or managing director.

Kratom products, especially the potent 7-OH sold in smoke shops, are causing strong addictions and severe withdrawal symptoms in Philly.

Local treatment centers report more rehab visits and poison control calls plus lawmakers are planning restrictions to curb its spread.

Phillies outfielder Max Kepler signed a one-year deal last winter but struggled at the plate before his recent strong play in series wins kept him in a platoon role+ his mixed success has drawn both cheers and boos from Philadelphia fans.

His performance will be key as the team works to hold its NL East lead with about 40 games left.

On August 13th, the Eagles and Browns held their first joint practice at NovaCare Complex where players ran drills without live tackling.

The session saw Zack Baun return to team drills and key players like Landon Dickerson and A.J. Brown limited by injuries — the teams will hold another joint practice today ahead of Saturday’s preseason game at Lincoln Financial Field.

Eagles rookie safety Andrew Mukuba returned to practice on August 12th after an injury and impressed coaches with his instincts and versatility—he is expected to boost the defense this season and beyond.

The second-round pick from Texas is set to be a key part of the team as they aim for another championship.