Good morning, Philadelphia.

Philadelphia's poverty rate dropped to 19.7% in 2024—its first fall below 20% since at least 1979, even as roughly 300,000 residents live in poverty.

Local leaders stressed that efforts must continue to address challenges like deep poverty and economic mobility while Houston now has the highest rate among major cities.

At a special meeting on Thursday, the school board approved borrowing up to $1.55B—set to cover gaps from the state budget impasse—and ratified the teachers union contract with unanimous support.

The loan will fund school operations until December and may cost $29.3M in interest if the budget problem continues.

Philadelphia City Council passed a law that forces some businesses in areas like Kensington to close at 11 p.m.—the measure, introduced by Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson, will take effect on Nov.

10 and was approved without Mayor Parker’s signature.

Haverford Township approved an ordinance that requires anyone under 16 to wear helmets when riding e-bikes and electric scooters—this rule has a notice period until December 31 and will impose a $25 fine starting January 1 if riders do not comply.

Philadelphia councilmember Katherine Gilmore-Richardson introduced a law to let the city close smoke shops that sell unregulated drugs like hemp THC and kratom—she said these stores hide past rule breaks.

The bill, co-sponsored by Jeffery Young and Brian J. O’Neill, will change parts of the law to stop loopholes and may lead to hearings for tougher limits—aiming to protect our community.

The NCAA is investigating 13 former men’s basketball players from six schools—including Temple and Eastern Michigan—for unusual betting activities as text messages showed they bet on and against their own games.

The athletes, who are no longer enrolled, may face penalties as the NCAA reviews similar cases of sports betting violations.

The Phillies swept the Mets on Sep 11 and improved their record to 87-60 after overcoming a 4-0 early deficit.

Jesus Luzardo pitched 8 IP and Jhoan Duran ended the game by striking out the final side—strengthening their division lead.

Since his call-up on September 1, Philadelphia Phillies catcher Garrett Stubbs has taken on a mentor role to help players in both the major and minor leagues, boosting team morale—players like Brandon Marsh have said his guidance helped them overcome setbacks.

After a 24-20 win over Dallas last Thursday, the Eagles prepare for their Week 2 game against the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium—set to begin at 4:25 p.m.—with key matchups including the Eagles’ secondary against a weakened Chiefs receiving corps and A.J.

Brown facing Trent McDuffie. Philadelphia will rely on strong coaching adjustments to overcome injuries and suspensions affecting Kansas City.

Walker Buehler—a former World Series champion—spoke with the media yesterday and said he was impressed by the Phillies culture as he prepares to make his first start today against the Kansas City Royals.

He also criticized the ABS system and expects his Triple-A rehab performance to help secure a roster spot in October.

Flyers CEO Dan Hilferty and President Keith Jones said that top prospect Matvei Michkov wants to be a star as they build a long-term plan to become a Stanley Cup contender.

They noted that forward Tyson Foerster is expected to be healthy for training camp and rookie camp events are scheduled this week—adding optimism for the season.