The Jawncast from KYW Newsradio: Recent Episodes
Audacy
The daily podcast all about Philadelphia. Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer talk with KYW Newsradio's reporters about the big and small news that matters to you.
Anyone who has had medical debt could tell you how unexpected and crippling it can be. What's worse, that debt can even follow your family after you die. But a group of queer activists in Philadelphia found a loophole in the system. With the help of Undue Medical Debt, they bought and forgave $2 million of medical debt, and they celebrated it in a symbolic burning. Sabrina Boyd-Surka finds out exactly how this was possible, talking with the local organizers, Undue Medical Debt’s CEO, and a patient whose life was changed when her debt was relieved.
We're about to have a golden opportunity to see Philadelphians shine on a global scale: at the 2024 Academy Awards. Colman Domingo, born in West Philly, is nominated for Best Actor for his performance in "Rustin", and Da'Vine Joy Randolph, from Mount Airy, is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for "The Holdovers". Both are Temple University graduates. Sabrina Boyd-Surka digs into their Philadelphia origin stories and how the city has shaped who they are today, with help from KYW's Nigel Thompson.
Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for IMDb.
The biggest event in professional wrestling is coming to Philadelphia in just a few weeks. Join super fans and KYW Newsradio staffers Andre Bennett and Tim Jimenez for this ode to the audacious; a love letter to legends of the squared circle; an appreciation for how Philly became the home of hardcore wrestling and left an indelible mark and legacy on a multibillion dollar industry that continues to grow. Featuring commentary and stories from WWE superstar Drew Gulak, former ECW and WWE superstar the Blue Meanie, and more.
Links:
Drew Gulak
Blue Meanie
Bryce Remsburg
Bill Apter
Shea McCoy
Suplex Vintage
The Collective
Labor of Love
Introducing a new project from another KYW Newsradio Original Podcast - "Ricochet" is a mini-series from Gone Cold: Philadelphia Unsolved Murders that examines the gun violence crisis in our country through stories of unsolved shootings in Philadelphia.
In the first episode, we talk with Joan Ortiz, whose 2-year-old daughter Nikolette was shot and killed in her arms. It was at the hands of a man named Tayvon Thomas, who grew up abused and neglected, and turned to drugs. We dig into both sides of this tragedy, examine the systemic failures that contributed, and ask why the most vulnerable feel the least protected.
To hear more of "Ricochet", follow Gone Cold: Philadelphia Unsolved Murders wherever you get your podcasts.
Recreational adult use of marijuana has been legal for over a year and a half in New Jersey, but small businesses still struggle to break into the industry, even if they were operating underground before. Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the first Black, woman-owned cannabis manufacturing business in Delaware and the first independent edibles brand on shelves in New Jersey, ButACake, to find out how they established themselves legally after years as a legacy operator in New Jersey. And KYW South Jersey reporter Mike Dougherty joins us for a look inside the grow house of a multi-state operator, The Cannabist Company, where the team is trying to use their funding and resources to help smaller companies like ButACake get off the ground.
For pictures of ButACake’s kitchen and The Cannabist Company’s grow house, follow us on X @TheJawncast.
Check out Matha Figaro’s other business, CannPowerment, here.
When Bec Richman started out in rabbinical school, she felt lost. What was she going to do with herself? Then, her vision became clear: she wanted to learn how to scribe. The only problem was, tradition stood in her way. According to Jewish law, only men could be scribes, but Rabbi Bec and other non-male aspiring scribes like her worked around the rules. In a time when so much attention is being paid to religion and how it affects the world, join Brian Seltzer as he explores a growing movement within progressive Judaism, how a congregation in Philadelphia is pushing the movement forward, and the transcendent themes from this story that can be applied to people of all walks of life, regardless of how they worship.
Follow The Jawncast on X.
Links to organizations referenced in this story:
Congregation Rodeph Shalom
Stam Scribes
Songs performed in this episode by Rodeph Shalom cantor Bradley Hyman:
"Eitz Chayim Hi" (Robbie Solomon)
"Tri-Faith Nigun" (Jacob "Spike" Kraus)
In honor of Veterans Day, we’re revisiting the story of Michael Crescenz, a man who gave his life to save his fellow soldiers in the Vietnam War. He was the only Philadelphian to receive a Medal of Honor for that war, and his family and friends have done everything they could to make sure he’s remembered - from putting up a statue to renaming the VA Hospital - because his story represents so many others who don’t have anyone left to pass on their legacy. Sabrina Boyd-Surka talks with Michael’s brother and fellow veterans about who he was, how he became a hero, and how a whole generation had their lives shaped by this war.
You can get a copy of Michael’s biography here: “No Greater Love: The Story of Michael Crescenz, Philadelphia's Only Medal of Honor Recipient of the Vietnam War” by John A Siegfried and Kevin Ferris.
Photo courtesy of the Crescenz family.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Edgar Allan Poe is one of the most classic horror and mystery writers of all time. We see countless re-creations of his stories around Halloween - like the new Netflix series “The Fall of the House of Usher”. Poe lived in Philadelphia for six years, which are said to be the happiest and most productive time of his life. He published 31 stories in that time. What was it that made Poe’s Philadelphia years so great? Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site - one of the houses where Poe lived in Philadelphia - to get a glimpse into the life and mind behind these timeless, spooky tales, and to hear how this house may have influenced Poe’s writing.
For pictures of the Poe house, follow us @TheJawncast.
For many Philadelphians, the Painted Bride mosaic that covers an entire building on Vine St. has become a piece of the city’s identity, embedded with images and memories of the local art community. But as of October 2023, it’s being taken apart, and the building will soon be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use building. The artist, Isaiah Zagar, is now 84 years old, and he spent nine years making this mural. Sabrina Boyd-Surka and KYW’s Shara Dae Howard dig into the history of this mural, what it has meant to Philadelphia, why it couldn’t be saved, and whether or not public art is really meant to last forever.
Photo by Sarah Bloom.
Read more about the mural from Shara Dae Howard here.
Check out pictures of the mosaic here, and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) for more: @TheJawncast.
During two weeks in September, the Philadelphia area was gripped by a dramatic, unpredictable, and unnerving manhunt for a convicted killer. Residents impacted by the search wanted answers: how did Danilo Cavalcante escape from Chester County Prison, and where did he go? For nearly 150 years, one of Philadelphia’s most popular neighborhoods lived under the steady specter of incarcerated people breaking out of a maximum security prison in their backyard. What parallels can be found between escape stories from famed Eastern State Penitentiary and the Danilo Cavalcante manhunt? How did the presence of Eastern State affect the community that grew around it? Why is studying lessons from the past vital to thinking critically about the criminal justice system in the present? Brian Seltzer visited Eastern State Penitentiary to learn some history, get answers, and connect some dots.
For all the twists, turns, and takeaways from escape to capture in the Cavalcante manhunt, check out Manhunt: Catching a killer in Chesco, an original podcast from KYW Newsradio.
Do ghosts exist? It’s a question that’s been asked over and over again throughout modern history. But as impossible as it is to pin down an answer, that doesn’t stop people like John Levy from trying. When he’s on the clock, John is a Philadelphia police officer. In his spare time, he’s a paranormal investigator. Brian Seltzer, John McDevitt, and Holli Stephens join John on a spooky season ghost hunt at a national historic landmark in Horsham, PA that's supposedly...haunted. What do they find? How does the adventure shape their beliefs in the afterlife? Listen to find out.
Links referenced in episode:
Olde City Paranormal
Graeme Park
And be sure to follow us on X: @TheJawncast.
A recent study named Philadelphia the best city in the U.S. for naked biking - and the city’s annual Naked Bike Ride makes a good case. With over 1,000 riders, it’s part of the World Naked Bike Ride, and the largest one on the east coast. But…why do people do this? There’s more to it than novelty - the Philly Naked Bike Ride makes a statement about body positivity and fuel reduction. Sabrina Boyd-Surka talks with some of the organizers and gets a glimpse at the “protest party” on wheels.
Photo courtesy of the Philly Naked Bike Ride.
See more photos of the ride here.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
The Commodore Barry Irish Center was established as a gathering place for Irish immigrants in 1958 - but by 2014, the center was both literally and figuratively starting to crumble. The waves of Irish immigration had slowed to a trickle…so why was it so important to some people to save the center? KYW Newsradio’s City Hall Bureau Chief, Pat Loeb, guest hosts this week to share the story of how a few passionate Irish descendants started a movement to bring the Irish Center back from the brink of eviction and turned it into a place where you can experience the many cultures of Philadelphia today.
Check out pictures of the Irish Center here.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Philly Flags Part III: Philadelphia has an official flag. You knew that, right? Well, if you didn’t, you’re probably not alone. Contrary to the city’s DNA, the Philadelphia flag is somewhat… subdued, lowkey. It doesn’t really stand out. But even if the flag tends to hide in plain sight, it’s been around a while - since 1895. Brenda Exon, for one, loves the Philadelphia flag so much she’s created an alter ego and non-profit organization devoted to celebrating it. Not everyone, however, shares her same passion for the original. In fact, more and more, the call for a new Philadelphia flag seems like it’s getting louder and louder. In the third and final installment of our Philly Flags miniseries, hear from supporters and critics of Philadelphia’s official flag, and find out whether it might be possible for the city to adopt a new one.
Follow The Jawncast on Twitter. Click here to read more about The Philadelphia Inquirer's flag redesign contest and its winner.
Did you know that everywhere the President or Vice President of the United States goes, they take a little piece of Northeast Philadelphia with them? True fact! The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support Flag Room, located at the Naval Support Activity base in Oxford Circle, is the only place in the world authorized to make the official hand-embroidered Presidential and Vice Presidential Flags used at press conferences, state visits, and other public and private functions. The Flag Room is also responsible for creating flags for the military and other branches of government. How did this prestigious task from nearly two centuries ago become a uniquely Philadelphia tradition? What inspires the Flag Room’s 13 embroidery artists to do their jobs with such painstaking care, even if their handiwork goes widely underrecognized? In the second installment of The Jawncast’s Philly Flags mini-series, Brian Seltzer toured the Flag Room tofind out.
Follow The Jawncast on Twitter, and be sure to check out some awesome photos and videos from our visit to the DLA Troop Support Flag Room.
Even if you’re not intimately familiar with the history of Betsy Ross, you probably know the highlights of the story, right? The South Jersey native, at the request of George Washington and other leaders of the Revolution, made the first American flag, right there in her home in the Old City section of Philadelphia! But is that really what happened? Maybe so, maybe not. Some historians have their doubts. In the first installment of a three-part miniseries on The Jawncast about the links between Philly and flags, Brian Seltzer heads to the Betsy Ross House to examine the truths and myths surrounding her life, and how much, in respect to her legacy, it even matters if she did or didn’t create the first American flag.
For more information about the Betsy Ross House, click here. The entirety of Marc Leepson's talk about his book, Flag: An American Biography, can be seen here.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
This episode is a follow-up to a story on The Jawncast titled 'Young, Black, Philly fathers, united' that was originally released June 16th, 2022. It has been republished, and should appear as the preceding episode in your feed.
Fatherhood can be challenging for anyone, especially members of at-risk, violent communities in big cities like Philadelphia. Enter Young Fathers United, a weekly program created by the Institute for the Development of African-American Youth that helps fathers and fathers-to-be navigate issues like money, security, and custody. Brian Seltzer first sat in on a meeting of the North Philly-based Young Fathers United last year ahead of Father’s Day. A year later, Brian went back, and followed up with two of the program's participants, brothers Quinn and Jihad Wesley, to hear how fatherhood has only made the bond between them stronger.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
This story was originally published June 17th, 2022. To hear an update, listen to The Jawncast episode released June 16th, 2023 titled, 'A brothers' bond, through fatherhood.'
Philadelphia’s 19132 zip code sees a lot of violence. It’s also home to the Institute for the Development of African American Youth, where each week, fathers, fathers-to-be, and aspiring fathers come to talk about fatherhood and everything that comes with it. Money. Security. Custody. Snitching. No topic is off limits. Join Brian Seltzer as a fly on the wall at one of IDAAY’s Young Fathers United meetings, and hear from members of the group. Plus, we’ll meet IDAAY’s co-founder, Archye Leacock, whose organization has been helping young, Black men navigate fatherhood for over three decades.
Kimberly McGlonn owns two clothing stores that stand out in a sea of fast fashion. Grant Blvd sells sustainable, ethical, locally-made clothes, and Blk Ivy is a thrift store based on the fashion of the Civil Rights Era. Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the stores to learn more about Kimberly’s mission, why it’s so needed in the fashion industry, how historical struggles have impacted Black fashion, and how we can all work towards change through what we wear.
Other links referenced in this episode:
- Made Institute
- B Lab
- Triple Bottom Brewing and fair chance hiring
- Thomas Jefferson University fashion programs
- The Narativ House
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Pickleball has exploded in popularity over the last few years, but it’s actually been around since the 1960s. You might think of it as an old people’s game, but most of the players in Philadelphia now are actually in their 20s and 30s. What’s drawing this new crowd to play a sport with such a silly name? (And where did that name come from?) Sabrina Boyd-Surka talks with pickleball players and organizers, and takes the court herself to find out what all the racket is about. Turns out, pickleball could actually do a lot of good for our city.
Join the Philadelphia Pickleball Facebook group to find out when and where you can play in the city.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
If you go to the Penn Relays - the largest track and field meet in America - you’ll notice Jamaican flags all over the crowd and on the field. Athletes don’t come from a lot of foreign countries - mostly the East Coast and a few other states - so why are there so many teams and fans from Jamaica? Sabrina Boyd-Surka talked with some Jamaican athletes and the team behind the scenes that makes their trip possible, Team Jamaica Bickle, and found out why the Penn Relays are an important opportunity for Jamaican students.
To learn more or to support Team Jamaica Bickle, visit teamjamaicabickle.org.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
This week, we’re sharing an episode of a new KYW Original Podcast, unCovering the Birds with Jeff McLane, a podcast sharing untold stories and perspectives about the Eagles. It’s co-produced by the Philadelphia Inquirer and our own Brian Seltzer. Follow unCovering the Birds wherever you get podcasts to hear more every week!
Getting drafted in the first round is the dream scenario for just about any aspiring football player. But for former Philadelphia Eagle Marcus Smith, it was a total nightmare, full of hellish professional and personal consequences. With the 2023 NFL draft season in full swing, Philadelphia Inquirer Eagles beat reporter Jeff McLane explores Smith’s story, and how being a first-round pick, combined with having deep-seated personal issues, pushed him closer to a life-threatening crossroads.
Please be advised this episode discusses mental health struggles and suicide. If you need help, call the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or visit its website: https://988lifeline.org/
Pennhurst Asylum was never actually an asylum. It was previously Pennhurst State School and Hospital, one of the most notoriously harmful institutions for people with disabilities. Today, it’s the site of a haunted Halloween attraction and paranormal tours, despite some strong opposition. What happened there, and how it closed, has shaped disability rights and advocacy today. Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits Pennhurst and talks to disability advocates and historians to get the real story behind these abandoned walls.
Links referenced in this episode:
- Pennhurst Memorial & Preservation Alliance
- Bill Baldini’s documentary series, “Suffer the Little Children”
- Dennis Downey’s book, “Pennhurst and the Struggle for Disability Rights”
- Speaking for Ourselves self-advocacy group
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie finally confirmed what many fans have been asking for: the Kelly Green uniforms will officially return in 2023!
Why do Eagles fans love Kelly Green so much? In September, Brian Seltzer set out on a journey to answer that question and found that there’s so much more to our city’s connection with the color green. We’re revisiting that episode this week.
To learn more about where Philly's park system ranks compared to other American cities, click here.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
People who have visual impairments can miss out on a lot of opportunities - but sports doesn't have to be one of them. Philadelphia Blind Hockey is part of a national league that adapts hockey so that blind and visually impaired people can play. Sabrina Boyd-Surka visited a blind hockey practice to see how it works and what it means to the players, especially young kids who thought they might never get to play sports.
Learn more about Philadelphia Blind Hockey at philadelphiablindhockey.com.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
This week, we’re sharing an episode from another Audacy podcast, Something Offbeat, that’s guest-hosted by our own Sabrina Boyd-Surka.
Madison Square Garden Entertainment has used facial recognition technology to keep some fans out of Rockettes shows, Knicks games, and other events at its properties in recent months. But not just any fans -- attorneys who work for firms with pending litigation against the company.
Leila Nashashibi with the nonprofit Fight for the Future, explains the biases of facial recognition, who controls the information, and the "creep" of technology that concerns her.
In the episode, Nashashibi mentions how people concerned about the technology can get involved, by visiting Fight for the Future or by contacting your lawmakers here.
Photo of Madison Square Garden by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images.
Dogs have a lot of skills that humans don’t, which makes them great at certain jobs. The Penn Vet Working Dog Center trains dogs for search and rescue, law enforcement, and scientific research - like sniffing out COVID-19. Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the center, as well as a few of its graduates at the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and New Jersey Task Force 1. We get to see what a working dog does, how they’re trained, and the special bond they have with their owners.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
The Underground Railroad carved a path through the Philadelphia region. Harriet Tubman and other abolitionist leaders made their base here for several years. And yet, in 2023, we can’t seem to agree on the best way to recognize that history. This week, as we celebrate Black History Month, Sabrina Boyd-Surka dives into some stories that might not have been in your textbooks and examines what it really means to honor someone’s life and legacy.
More info on the sites and organizations we spoke with:
Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey: www.harriettubmanmuseum.org
Johnson House Historic Site: www.johnsonhouse.org
Harriett’s and Ida’s Bookshops: www.oursisterbookshops.com
Celebrating the Legacy of Nana Harriet Tubman Committee: www.facebook.com/nanaharrietlegacydefense
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
If you’ve ever seen a woman with a box of candy on her head walking around the streets of Philadelphia - that’s Candyianna, the Philly Candy Lady. She’s a local icon, singing songs with candy-related lyrics and joking with everyone she meets. What made her want to live this life? In some ways, it didn’t feel like a choice. This week, Sabrina Boyd-Surka gets to know the Philly Candy Lady - her wild adventures, the struggles she’s faced, and how she manages to find and spread joy through it all.
You can follow Candyianna on Instagram @philly_candy_lady, or on TikTok @phillycandylady.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Two sites in South Jersey could hold the key to creating a more accurate narrative surrounding Martin Luther King Jr.’s beginnings as a civil rights leader. So why has it been such a struggle to get these places properly recognized? Local activists Patrick Duff and Linn Washington Jr. have been working together for years to try to get the State of New Jersey to budge, but they keep running into roadblocks. What are the main points of contention in this debate? Is there any chance the state ultimately comes around? The Jawncast’s Brian Seltzer examines the layers of this MLK mystery.
LINKS:
Mary’s Cafe police report
Patrick Duff research materials
Follow us @TheJawncast.
Most people know it as the “Citywide,” and over the years, there have been many imitations and iterations. But at Bob and Barbara’s Lounge on South Street, a shot of Jim Beam bourbon and a 12 oz. can of Pabst Blue Ribbon lager essentially goes by one name: “the special.” Where did this legendary bar come up with the idea for such an iconic pairing? How have they managed to keep the cost ($4) down for all these years? And, in the aftermath of the pandemic and inflation, could the price soon be changing? The Jawncast’s Brian Seltzer pops into Bob and Barbara’s to learn more about the history and future of Philadelphia’s unofficial drink.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
If you’re a Philadelphia Eagles fan, you know one thing: you HATE the Dallas Cowboys. Even if you don’t follow football but you live in Philly, you might have a negative impression of Dallas without knowing why. As the Eagles and the Cowboys gear up to face each other on Christmas Eve, we teamed up with the Texas Wants to Know podcast to see if we can get to the bottom of this rivalry. When did it start, how did it get so intense, and is there any world where we could get along? How much of what we think about each others’ cities is true, and what’s just a false impression?
If you find yourself liking Dallas after listening to this, you can hear more of Texas Wants to Know here, on the Audacy app, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images.
What’s the toughest part about being a podcast about interesting and unique stories in Philadelphia? It’s impossible for us to cover every single one! As 2022 comes to a close, Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer look back on a handful of their favorite stories that didn’t make the podcast, from an unconventional emotional support animal to an absolutely insane gastrointestinal achievement. Join us as we turn back the clock a bit, and revisit some of the wacky, wonderful, and weird that Philly had to offer this past year!
CREDITSDocumenting Philly
NBC
KNX
Ty Lohr
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
It’s rare to see a Black or brown ballerina on stage, but not at Philadelphia’s Chocolate Ballerina Company, where all the dancers are people of color. They’re performing their own take on a holiday classic this month - “The Nutcracker: Dipped in Chocolate." Sabrina Boyd-Surka sat in on a rehearsal to find out how they put their own twist on the story and why it means so much to young dancers of color to have a group like this, where they can see people who look like them on stage and feel at home.
Tickets and more info about the Chocolate Ballerinas are at chocolateballerinacompany.com.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
Alex Du is Vietnamese and was raised Buddhist. So how in the heck did the 45-year old real estate investor end up becoming the de facto ringleader for one of Philadelphia’s most iconic Christmastime traditions? Each year, during the winter holiday season, the 1600 block of South 13th Street, where Alex and his family have lived for decades, turns into an electric and eclectic display of seasonal cheer. Lights are everywhere - suspended in air across the street from house to house, along rooflines, wrapped around trees and lampposts. Join Brian Seltzer as he heads to the annual Miracle on South 13th Street kick-off block party to talk to Alex and his neighbors about the origins of this spectacle, and how the South Philadelphia community has kept it going.
Check out the Miracle on South 13th Street's Facebook page here.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Daniel McClellan was a pioneer, pitching the first perfect game of record in the Negro Leagues. How, then, is it possible that his grave went unmarked for more than half a century? This is a question Brian Seltzer answers on a visit to Eden Cemetery in Delaware County, where McClellan is buried. We also learn about the history of Eden itself, the factors that contributed to it becoming the first Black-owned public cemetery in the United States, and what Eden can teach us about the inherent obstacles of African-American genealogy.
Here are some links we referenced in the episode:
Eden Cemetery
African-American Genealogy Group resources
Thanks to our guests:
Hakeem Thomas Sr.
Dean Henry
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
In 1968, 19-year-old Michael Crescenz left his parents and 5 brothers to fight in Vietnam. He never made it home - instead he gave his life to save his fellow soldiers. Michael was the only Vietnam veteran from Philadelphia to receive a Medal of Honor, but his story represents countless others who died in battle with no one left to tell their stories. Sabrina Boyd-Surka talks with Michael’s brother and fellow veterans about his life, his legacy, and how a whole generation had their lives shaped by this war.
You can get a copy of Michael’s biography here: “No Greater Love: The Story of Michael Crescenz, Philadelphia's Only Medal of Honor Recipient of the Vietnam War” by John A Siegfried and Kevin Ferris.
Photo by Patrick Hughes.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
When Philadelphia sports teams win big and fans celebrate in the streets, you're going to see people trying to climb poles. Street light poles, sign poles, traffic light poles, it really doesn't matter. Even the city greasing the poles downtown doesn’t stop people. In fact, the tradition of climbing a greased pole in Philadelphia goes beyond the Phillies and the Eagles - there’s been an annual competition in the Italian Market for decades. With the Phillies in the World Series and fans going wild, Sabrina Boyd-Surka and KYW Newsradio reporter Nina Baratti talk with the folks behind South Philly’s grease pole competition about where this form of celebration came from, plus some strategies for both greasing and climbing a pole.
Check out Nina’s story on Philly’s greased pole traditions, and watch a 10-minute documentary on the grease pole by Richard Cordisio.
Follow us on Twitter @TheJawncast.
One woman is looking to overcome mental health issues that have troubled her for years. Another wants patients and clinicians alike to better understand a progressive approach to treatment. As Brian Seltzer reports, ketamine is the connection for Marie and Dr. Sophia Brandstetter, the founder of the Ko-Op, a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy clinic in Graduate Hospital. Hear how both hope the powerful, yet somewhat controversial, substance with psychedelic properties helps them on their respective personal and professional journeys.
To read more about the Ko-Op, visit the clinic's website, which has information for both patients and clinicians.
Follow us on Twitter, @TheJawncast.
(Photo: Mike Prince, Peter Breslow Consulting & PR)
Mia Ormes had an idea to deliver healthy, plant-based soups and stews to new moms. But starting a business on her own was an overwhelming challenge. So she applied for Drexel Food Lab’s Good Food Accelerator Program, where she worked with students to develop her recipes and get her business, Tribu, off the ground. Sabrina Boyd-Surka talked with Mia and visited the Food Lab to see what goes into food research and building a local, small business.
You can learn more about Tribu or order a meal at mealsbytribu.com, or visit Mia at the Clark Park Farmers Market on Nov. 15, Nov. 19, Dec. 3, and Dec. 17.
Follow us on Twitter, @TheJawncast.
Figuring out college is hard enough as it is. Add being housing insecure or homeless to the mix, and the challenge seems almost unimaginable. But for some college students in the Philadelphia area, this obstacle was their reality - until they found help. The Jawncast’s Brian Seltzer talks to a group of local students about their experiences with housing insecurity and homelessness, and explores how this problem can be addressed.
For more information about connecting college students experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness with DePaul USA, click here. The organization also has an upcoming gala to support its efforts.
Other links referenced in this episode:
The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice
And be sure to follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Kennett Square and a few other nearby towns grow 60% of the country’s mushrooms, and they’re very proud of that fact. The town hosts a mushroom festival every year. There’s even a play going up at People's Light in Malvern about mushroom workers. How did the center of America’s mushroom industry get to be in Philadelphia’s backyard? Sabrina Boyd-Surka takes a deep dive into the world of fungi farmers - where immigrants make up the bulk of the workers, and that can be a benefit to the community as well as a challenge.
For more info on mushroom farms, check out:
Mother Earth Mushrooms
American Mushroom Institute
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Do ghosts exist? It’s a question that’s been asked over and over again throughout modern history. But as impossible as it is to pin down an answer, that doesn’t stop people like John Levy from trying. When he’s on the clock, John is a Philadelphia police officer. In his spare time, he’s a paranormal investigator. Brian Seltzer, John McDevitt, and Holli Stephens join John on a spooky season ghost hunt at a national historic landmark in Horsham, PA that's supposedly...haunted. What do they find? How does the adventure shape their beliefs in the afterlife? Listen to find out.
Links referenced in episode:
Olde City Paranormal
Graeme Park
And be sure to follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
One of the biggest complaints in Philadelphia is that there’s a ton of trash on the streets. But it’s not all complete junk. The Philadelphia Dumpster Divers are a group of found-object artists who are giving that trash new life. This week, Sabrina Boyd-Surka attends a Dumpster Divers junk exchange and finds out why these people are so into trash - and she discovers that dumpster diving does more good than you might think.
Learn more about the artists:
- Neil Benson
- Joel Spivak
- Simone Spicer
- Alden Cole
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Find a color more Philly than green. C’mon. We dare you.
Think about it:
The Eagles. The Phillie Phanatic. Our street signs. All the parks. The Schuylkill River!
From how it’s worn to how different shades are made and where to find them, Brian Seltzer takes you on a colorful journey that explores how green is a defining part of Philadelphia’s identity and heritage.
To learn more about where Philly's park system ranks compared to other American cities, click here.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
These days, we might take it for granted that we live in a city with state of the art healthcare. But there was a time when we didn't even have hospitals in America. This week, Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the first chartered hospital in the nation: Pennsylvania Hospital, established in Philadelphia in 1751. We hear what health care looked like in the 18th and 19th centuries - from a surgical amphitheater where the public could observe surgeries before anesthesia existed, to mental health care when most people thought mental illness was supernatural.
Learn more about Pennsylvania Hospital or book a tour here.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
Theme restaurants. Big-box retail. Grandiose indoor urban entertainment centers. These were catchy commercial real estate trends of the mid- to late-1990s, and The Walt Disney Company wanted in.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, was on the cusp of a major economic renaissance following years of financial woes. Ed Rendell, then the city’s mayor, ushered in this turnaround, and he wanted Disney.
What did the city and Disney see in each other? And why, less than two years after forming their partnership, was Philadelphia left with a big hole in the ground?
The Jawncast's Brian Seltzer explores the legend of DisneyQuest Philadelphia and the DisneyQuest Hole.
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Imagine being a teenager in high school and sharing a house with the biggest basketball star on the planet. This was the life Dave Richman lived for a few months in 1965. That winter, Dave’s father, 76ers founder and owner Ike Richman, pulled off a stunning trade to bring Wilt Chamberlain back to Philadelphia to play for the recently-formed Sixers. A lot of people know the story of Chamberlain’s impact on the then-fledgling team, but some of the stories that happened behind the scenes are just as fascinating. Hear Dave Richman, former 76er and Chamberlain teammate Wali Jones, and 94.1 WIP’s Howard Eskin share memories of the Big Dipper with The Jawncast’s Brian Seltzer and KYW Newsradio’s Dave Uram a few days before what would have been Chamberlain’s 86th birthday.
Check out Richman’s book and podcast, and Jones’ podcast as well! Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast.
If you’ve never lived in a neighborhood that was lit up by neon sign after neon sign, welcome to Len Davidson’s Philadelphia. Len grew up in a different era in Northeast Philly, when soda fountains and pharmacy counters were the norm. He’s trying to preserve a piece of that time at the Neon Museum of Philadelphia, where he’s collected over a hundred signs from businesses that have mostly died out - much like neon itself.
This week, Sabrina Boyd-Surka visits the Neon Museum to find out what makes Len so interested in these signs and why he thinks their stories need to live on for future generations.
Take a look inside the museum with photos and videos by Holli Stephens here.
Follow us on Twitter: @TheJawncast
We talk a lot about second chances in life, but what if you never got your first? That's part of the thinking behind Triple Bottom Brewing's fair chance hiring model.
Since opening in 2019, the Philadelphia-based, 10-barrel craft brewery has prioritized hiring people who face barriers for employment, such as individuals who were formerly incarcerated.
The Jawncast's Brian Seltzer visited Triple Bottom to find out why it embraced fair chance hiring, and how this practice has helped formerly incarcerated people make stable lives for themselves and their families.
More details about Triple Bottom Brewing can be found here. Information about fair chance hiring is available through the Youth Sentencing & Reentry Project.
Roosevelt Boulevard. Vine Street. The Schuylkill Expressway. I-95. There are some stretches in Philadelphia where you expect people to drive crazy. But in a residential section of Germantown, the rules of the road are ignored so often that neighbors knew it was only a matter of time before tragedy struck. Recently it did, when a 21-year old was killed in a hit-and-run while crossing the street. KYW Newsradio's Shara Dae Howard tells us about the most dangerous intersection in Philadelphia you've probably never heard of, and what the Germantown community is now trying to do to fix it.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
And there's a tragic postscript to this story: days after recording our interview with Shara Dae Howard, a second woman was struck by an SUV and killed at the very same intersection, less than two weeks after the Dia Lee accident. You can read Shara Dae's reporting on the second hit-and-run incident here.
The LGBTQ+ community is a big tent made up of a lot of people with very different lives and experiences. And with so many conversations recently about Philadelphia's Pride celebrations, coupled with the backdrop of anti-LGBTQ legislation being introduced and passed in statehouses across the country, we wanted to talk with individual people about what they are thinking right now. On this episode, four people from different parts of Philly's LGBTQ+ community share their stories, their concerns, and their hopes.
Here are some LGBTQ+ resources and places where you can donate or get involved to help the community: William Way Community Center Arcila-Adams Trans Resource Center Mazzoni Center The Attic Youth Center Philly Black Pride PHL Pride Collective
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. We had additional help from Eric Walter on this episode. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Fourth of July weekend is coming, and it’s expected to bring sweltering temperatures with it. What if (and this is for the 21-and-over crowd) you couldn’t cool off with your favorite beverage, like a crisp Pilsner, juicy IPA, or spiked seltzer? Thanks to a new contract for the local beer distributors’ union, beer drinkers in the Philadelphia area will be spared. But why did Teamsters Local 830 strike? KYW Newsradio’s John McDevitt and Monk’s Cafe co-owner and founder Tom Peters put the importance of beer distributors into perspective.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
On Friday morning, June 24, the United States Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, removing federal protection of the right to an abortion. To understand what that means for women across the country, Matt Leon spoke with Rachel Rebouché, Interim Dean of Temple University’s Beasley School of Law and the James E. Beasley Professor of Law, on our sister podcast, KYW Newsradio In Depth. We’re sharing that full interview today to help explain where this puts our country now.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia is one of the 2026 World Cup host cities! But, is that a good thing for the city? What do we need to do - and spend - to prepare to welcome half a million visitors? And it wasn't that long ago that FIFA was making international headlines for all the wrong reasons. What does the organization, and the World Cup bid process, look like now? Matthew De George, Assistant Sports Editor at the Delco Daily Times, breaks down the costs of hosting and measures them up against how much this means to soccer fans and how it could put Philadelphia on the global map.
Read more from Matt on the World Cup announcement here.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
As we mark a federal holiday for Juneteenth for the second year, the work of giving Black history a bigger place in American celebrations isn’t done. Jeannine Cook, owner of Harriett’s Bookshop in Philadelphia and Ida’s Bookshop in New Jersey, is leading the charge to get another federal holiday on the calendar: Harriet Tubman Day. Jeannine joins us to explain why this effort is so important to her and what it takes to get a new federal holiday declared.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia’s 19132 zip code sees a lot of violence. It’s also home to the Institute for the Development of African American Youth, where each week, fathers, fathers-to-be, and aspiring fathers come to talk about fatherhood and everything that comes with it. Money. Security. Custody. Snitching. No topic is off limits. Be a fly on the wall at one of IDAAY’s Young Fathers United meetings, and hear from members of the group. Plus, we’ll meet IDAAY’s co-founder, Archye Leacock, whose organization has been helping young, Black men navigate fatherhood for over three decades.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
If you’re at FDR Park on a weekend, in the right spot, you might be lucky enough to catch the Southeast Asian Market, also known as the Cambodian Market. The market has a rich history in Philadelphia’s immigrant community and draws shoppers from other parts of the country, but it’s hard to know when and where to look for it - until now. The city is giving the Cambodian Association a $100,000 grant to give the market a permanent home among the renovations coming to FDR Park. KYW’s Hadas Kuznits, host of the What’s Cooking podcast, explains what this move means to Philadelphia’s Southeast Asian community and the resilience it took them to get to this point.
Plus, the Flower Show has taken over FDR Park this week - Hadas gives us an inside scoop on what the future of the Flower Show could look like.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
As violence has surged in Philadelphia and across the country, people feel the need to protect themselves - and often, they’ve decided the best way to do that is by buying a gun themselves. We’ve seen a dramatic increase in legal gun ownership in the city over the past few years. It’s easy to get a gun here, but not as easy to understand how to properly use it. KYW’s Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams joins us to explain responsible gun ownership, and how we can hold two truths in our minds at the same time: many people want to protect themselves with guns, but they also want to stop guns from being used rampantly in the streets.
If you’re looking for firearm training, you can find some options at www.train2fightllc.com or www.defensiveunicornsllc.com.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
“There were warning signs all over the place.” But Donna Anderson couldn’t see them. She was blinded by love. The courtship between Anderson and her first husband was a whirlwind. He showered her with attention and affection, swept her off her feet. They married fast. But by the end of their two-and-a-half-year relationship, he had taken her for nearly a quarter of a million dollars. What went wrong? Why didn’t Anderson detect her ex-husband’s true intentions? KYW Newsradio’s Michelle Durham spoke with Anderson about her experience, and how narcissists and sociopaths are tougher to spot than you’d think.
Links: Lovefraud.com
Senior Sociopaths
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
For two years, we’ve missed the drums, the bright colors, the food and dance filling South Street during Odunde Festival. After a pandemic hiatus, the city’s celebration of African American history and culture is back. Racquel Williams tells us about the history and meaning of Odunde, and why it means even more this year to get back out and party on South Street. Plus, Justin Udo reflects on seeing kids find a creative outlet after a violent weekend in his Udo haiku.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Trudy Haynes was more than a pioneer. She was a “first.” The country’s first Black weathercaster on TV. Philadelphia’s first Black news reporter - male or female - at CBS-3. Haynes didn’t just make history. She survived and thrived in a cutthroat industry, all while blazing a trail for future broadcasters like KYW Newsradio’s Kim Adams. Before Adams carved out a successful career of her own, she grew up in North Philadelphia watching and studying Haynes’ work. Years later, Adams would share the CBS-3 set with Haynes, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 95. In honor of her late colleague, mentor, and friend, Adams shares stories and memories about what made Trudy Haynes one-of-a-kind.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Credits:
Trudy Haynes Network
Philadelphia Broadcast Pioneers
Delaware legislators have been trying for years to legalize recreational marijuana. They passed a bill recently, but Governor Carney vetoed it. Why would a Democratic governor separate from his party on this issue? When the bill passed with a supermajority, why couldn’t the legislature get enough votes to override the veto? What does this say about the balance of power, and where does the will of the people stand? KYW’s Mike Dougherty breaks all of that down for us, and takes a look at how the conversation around pot compares in neighboring Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Every week, Nicole Dorrell hears gunshots on her block. But rather than let a dangerous environment intimidate her, she feels compelled to use her voice to call for solutions to Philadelphia’s violent crimes crisis. Just days removed from last weekend’s mass shooting on South Street, Nicole and several other Philadelphians took part in a previously-planned trip to Harrisburg, where they advocated for change alongside other survivors of violent crimes and families of victims. KYW Newsradio’s Tim Jimenez spoke to the group before its departure to find out what it hoped to accomplish in the Pennsylvania capital, and how the South Street shooting only emboldened its beliefs.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
A mass shooting in Philadelphia. 3 dead, 11 injured on Saturday night. We talk through what happened, what KYW Newsradio’s reporters have learned so far, what we’ve heard from our elected leaders, and the unanswered questions everyone is asking.
Sun Ra was more than a musician. The pioneering jazz composer, keyboardist, and conductor was an experience - from his signature attire to his proclaimed connection to the cosmos. Nearly three decades after his death, Sun Ra’s house in Germantown was designated a historic landmark by the Philadelphia Historical Commission. Shara Dae Howard and Justin Udo, curators of KYW Newsradio’s Artists’ Block series, put Sun Ra’s legendary career into perspective, while also explaining why his home was instrumental in inspiring the out-of-this-world sound he and his Arkestra created. Never heard or seen a Sun Ra performance before? Check out this clip (credit: Night Music).
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philly Pride Presents dissolved last year amidst claims of racism and transphobia. That presented an opportunity to reimagine what Pride should look like, as many other cities across the country are doing. Jason Villemez, editor of the Philadelphia Gay News, explains what happened, what this year’s Pride on Sunday, June 5 will look like, and why Philadelphia has an important place in LGBTQ+ history.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Second graders have never had a full year in the classroom because of the COVID-19 pandemic - until this year. They’re catching up on a lot of education, plus just learning how to do things with other kids for the first time. KYW’s Mike DeNardochecked in with parents and educators to see how Philadelphia area second graders are doing at the end of their first year back. There’s been a lot of struggle and adjustment, but they’ve also shown the resilience to adapt and push through.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
There’s a growing trend in the corporate world: companies are starting to hire people whose sole purpose is to look out for the well-being of their employees and find creative solutions to keep them happy. But do chief happiness officers, or positions that go by different titles but have similar responsibilities, really make a difference? KYW Newsradio’s John McDevitt reports that for Bensalem-based Presto Tape, the answer is a resounding “yes.” A human resource management expert, however, has an alternate take.
Read John’s story here.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia’s Asian American, Pacific Islander, and immigrant and refugee community is extremely eclectic, just like the city itself. But as is the case with most marginalized groups, members of Philly’s AAPI population have been forced to face challenges and push through adversity. With Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month winding down, KYW Newsradio’s Denise Nakano helps us celebrate a distinct and diverse group that has enriched the city, and made it a better place to live.
Here are links we discussed in the episode: Denise Nakano reflects on her family’s connection to Japanese-American internment camps.
KYW Newsradio’s Asian Americans Making Their Mark series.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
May 25th marked two years since George Floyd was murdered by a police officer in Minneapolis. Have we made meaningful change since then? And just as this anniversary dawned, 21 people were killed in a school shooting in Texas. How can we cope with continued violence while we’re still healing? And how do we keep hope alive? The Rev. Dr. Charles L. Howard, who’s helping the West Philadelphia community heal and work toward social justice as the University of Pennsylvania’s Chaplain and Vice President for Social Equity & Community, helps us reflect and find inspiration to keep moving forward.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
On Tuesday, a gunman went to an elementary school in Texas and started shooting. He killed 21 people. 19 of them were children. Everyone across the country is mortified. And for parents, it's hard to even describe the feeling of horror, emptiness, and hopelessness right now. Today, we acknowledge how we're feeling. We ask, "why does this keep happening here?" And we face a hard truth about America.
Tim Jimenez spoke to the parents you heard in this episode. We forgot to acknowledge him in the audio, sorry about that Tim -- thank you. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimJRadio.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia’s got a lot of bikers, but it’s also got a growing bike safety problem. Enter…the Philadelphia Parking Authority?!?! That’s right. Everyone’s favorite ticket-giving organization believes it’s got a solution to make the city safer for bikers. KYW Newsradio’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb explains the strategy and penalties behind the PPA’s new pilot program, which has been years in the making. Maybe, just maybe, by the time you’re done listening to this podcast, your stance on the PPA will have softened a bit.
Plus, we talk about a noteworthy pro-abortion ordinance passed by the Radnor Township Board of Commissioners, and some traveling tips if you’re planning on flying out of Philadelphia International Airport this summer.
Glenn ‘Hurricane’ Schwartz is retiring at the end of the week, after 50 years in meteorology, 42 on TV, and 27 with NBC10 in Philadelphia. What makes the guy with the bowtie the beloved weatherman he is? Glenn tells us how he got his start in TV, where his nickname and his signature look come from, and what he forecasts long-term for Philadelphia weather based on the climate change trends he’s seen over the years.
Plus, Philadelphia schools and a few suburban counties are requiring masks again. KYW's education reporter Mike DeNardo tells us why, how long that could last, and what it means for the region in terms of COVID precautions going into the summer.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Before ‘Hamilton’ or even ‘In the Heights’, a guy from Philadelphia met Lin-Manuel Miranda at college and started a hip-hop improv group called Freestyle Love Supreme. That group eventually went to Broadway and is now touring the country. They’ll be at the Miller Theater from June 7-12, and that guy from Philadelphia - Anthony Veneziale - tells us how it all started and gives us a demo of how a freestyle rap comes together.
It’s a Friday, so that means we recognize our latest Philadelphia Sports Fan of the Week. This week, Dave Uram catches up with members of the Sons of Ben, the renowned Philadelphia Union supporters group.
Plus, Justin Udo presents a new haiku. This week’s theme? A pesky problem.
And we preview an upcoming episode of Bridging Philly with Philadelphia Department of Prisons Commissioner Blanche Carney, discussing some disturbing allegations within the system.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
One manufacturing plant shutting down has spiraled into a national baby formula shortage. Now President Biden has invoked the Defense Production Act to try to help - how does that work? KYW’s Tim Jimenez explains, and we hear from a Delaware County mom who has turned to Facebook for help feeding her baby.
For a deeper look at the how the shortage started, listen to this episode of KYW Newsradio In Depth with Dr. Nilofar Varzgani.
Plus, Philadelphia officials break ground on renovating FDR park, and a series of record-cleaning clinics in May and June will help people with past arrests get a new start.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Two of the major statewide races in the Pennsylvania primary were one-sided. Another one was not. The day after the election, we ask KYW Newsradio’s Pennsylvania politics expert Jim Melwert four big questions: How electable will the progressive John Fetterman and far-right Doug Mastriano be in November? Why did the Republican primary race for U.S. Senate end up being so tight Who does the Pennsylvania gubernatorial race favor, Mastriano or Josh Shapiro? Will the governor’s race be a referrendum on abortion rights?
Be sure to check out some other headlines from election night, like mail in ballots being recounted in Lancaster County and a look at some of the primary races by the numbers.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Reproductive rights and gun crime. These are two of the biggest issues for Philadelphia area voters as they prepare to head to the polls for Tuesday’s Pennsylvania state primary. But is the current state of the American electoral process capable of bringing about the policies that Republicans and Democrats want to see in the country? We asked residents in the city and suburbs what they think, and whether they still have faith that their vote counts.
To catch up on all the candidates that remain in the Pennsylvania primary races for U.S. Senate and Governor, click the links below.
- U.S Senate: Republican / Democrat
- PA Governor: Republican
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia has some new creatures in town. The Philadelphia Zoo brought in three African Ankole cattle, weighing in at about 1,600 pounds each! And there’s a new animal that we don’t necessarily want: an invasive species of snails. Our favorite animal lover, John McDevitt, joins us to talk about both of these species, plus a new Digital Equity Center at Temple University that’s helping North Philadelphia residents get access to computers and the internet.
Plus, Lieutenant Governor and Democratic Senate Candidate John Fetterman suffered a stroke just a few days before the primary election - we hear how his recovery is going.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
If you haven’t heard the name James Ijames before, remember it, because the South Philadelphia playwright just won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama! We hear how he reacted to the news, and Justin Udo reads an Udo haiku inspired by Ijames.
We’ve also got some local Tony nominees, including the Kimmel Cultural Campus, nominated as a producer for the revival of ‘Company’. We bring back the Kimmel’s Senior Director of Programming & Presentations, Frances Egler, who’s also a Tony voter, to give us the inside scoop on this year’s nominees and how the Tony awards are decided.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
PA Primary election primer - Democrat edition: John Fetterman has a commanding lead in the Democratic primary for Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senate seat that will be vacated when Pat Toomey retires. With less than a week to go before the election, is there any way the state’s current Lieutenant Governor could lose to challenger Conor Lamb? KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb has been covering the race, and explains why, despite Fetterman’s massive appeal, his electability in November's general election remains in question.
Plus, Pat also takes a look at some local races for Philadelphia City Council, and breaks down the four questions on the primary ballot.
Check out Pat’s preview of the Pennsylvania Democratic U.S. Senate primary.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
PA Primary election primer - GOP edition: We’re just days away from the Pennsylvania primary election, and Republican insiders are making a furious scramble to topple their ticket’s front runner for Governor. Why does the state GOP want to sink Doug Mastriano's chances to win the nomination, and who does the party consider to be the more electable candidate? KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert traveled to Harrisburg to find out. He also previews the Republican primary race for U.S. Senate, which looks like it could come down to the wire.
Check out Jim’s previews of the GOP primary bids for Governor and Senate.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Imagine if Regina George lived in Ghana in 1986. That’s what playwright Jocelyn Bioh has done with ‘School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play’, playing now at Philadelphia's Arden Theatre. It takes the classic idea of a high school clique and adds in the issue of colorism as the girls prepare for a beauty pageant. Sabrina Boyd-Surka chatted with one of the actors, Jessica Money, about how the show addresses beauty standards that still affect young Black girls today.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia posted new property assessments for the first time in three years. Councilmember Mark Squilla’s office says values went up by an average of 31%, some by more than 50% - and that means those homeowners could be paying a lot more in taxes. How can low-income communities or people living on fixed incomes cope with such an increase? KYW’s Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams tells us what effects the new assessments could have and where you can go for help.
Some resources we mentioned include the homestead exemption, the senior tax freeze program, and LOOP. Community Legal Services can help you sort through your options.
Plus, PA Senator Bob Casey shifts his stance on abortion, a NJ bill would explicitly make it illegal to stalk someone using tracking devices, and Wawa’s Welcome America festival returns to the Parkway this summer.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Early Tuesday morning, an SUV crashed into the Allegheny station on the Market-Frankford line, killing two pedestrians and the driver. KYW’s Tim Jimenez tells us what we know about the tragic accident so far. Plus, the owners of Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks pleaded guilty to conspiracy and tax evasion, some child care centers in Philadelphia closed on Monday to demonstrate the need for better pay, and Delaware County launched a new mobile crisis program to send mental health professionals alongside police in response to people experiencing a mental health crisis.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
What would you do if your own mortality was staring you right in the face? How would you respond? How would you make the most of the time you have left in your life? For Isabella de la Houssaye, she refuses to let a stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis slow her down - literally. The 58-year old Philadelphia small business owner and mother of five is determined to maintain an active physical lifestyle despite the serious situation she finds herself in. Whether she’s competing in Ironman triathlons or climbing the Seven Summits, de la Houssaye - a non-smoker - wants to change the way people think about lung cancer patients while raising awareness about the disease.
We also talk about a mixed white terrier puppy that was stolen from but then returned to the Pennsylvania SPCA, and a summit in West Chester that put the spotlight on issues facing young women in the area. Plus, Dave Uram talks to the famous (infamous?) 76ers fan who went viral after falling asleep at Sunday’s game.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
The first Mother’s Day was celebrated in two places - a church in Grafton, West Virginia, and the Wanamaker Auditorium in Philadelphia. Its founder, Anna Jarvis, spent much of her life living here and died at the Marshall Square Sanitarium in West Chester. But it wasn’t a peaceful life - when Mother’s Day started getting commercialized, she fought forcefully against it, losing her money and health in the battle. Jennifer Green, Director of Education at the Chester County History Center and author of Dark History of Penn's Woods: Murder, Madness, and Misadventure in Southeastern Pennsylvania, shares Anna Jarvis’s story as we prepare for this year’s Mother’s Day.
We also hear what KYW listeners want for Mother’s Day, and Dave Uram’s Sports Fan of the Week is a couple who were brought together by football.
Submit yourself or a friend to be the next Sports Fan of the Week at kywnewsradio.com/fans!
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Being in college isn't easy. Throw in the pandemic and a string of campus safety incidents, and Temple students had an extremely trying year. On graduation day in North Philadelphia, we talk with Temple Student Government President Gianni Quattrocchi about how he and fellow students coped with the past year’s challenges, whether he feels safe on campus, and his hopes for change in the fall.
Plus, we discuss a viral outbreak among dogs at a Hunting Park shelter that resulted in a temporary relocation effort, and a new poll’s shameful ranking of Philadelphia’s park system.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
New Jersey’s ban on single-use bags in grocery stores takes effect today. So, what can and can’t you use to transport your groceries now? What do you do if you forget a bag? What about grocery delivery services? KYW’s South Jersey reporter Mike Dougherty explains everything you need to know, plus how New Jersey residents are feeling about it. And we check in with our City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb on the ban in Philadelphia, which might see a few changes soon.
We also hear about an abortion rights rally in the city after the Supreme Court’s draft decision overturning Roe v. Wade was revealed, plus the search for a roving bear in Delaware County. And we say so long and good luck to a veteran voice on KYW Newsradio, Jeff Asch, as he retires.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
A Politico report revealed a draft opinion by the Supreme Court that would overturn Roe v. Wade, removing nationwide protection of the right to an abortion. Is this legit - does this mean the court has decided? If they do make this ruling, what happens next? Would abortion be legal here in Pennsylvania? What would this mean for the upcoming election? And would abortion be the only issue on the chopping block, or could a decision like this have ripple effects on other laws and court decisions? We gather information from KYW Newsradio’s reporters and experts - including Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert and Rachel Rebouché, a leading scholar in reproductive health law and the interim Dean of Temple University's Beasley School of Law - to try to answer these questions.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
For people with autism, learning how to function independently and interdependently is especially critical to their development. Saint Joseph’s University is trying to help the autistic members of its student body master these skills through the creation of a brand new on-campus residence hall. KYW Newsradio’s Lynne Adkins tells us more about the dorm, and the design features tailored specifically to students with autism.
Plus, a former Philadelphia police officer was charged with murder in the shooting death of a 12-year from South Philadelphia. We discuss the reaction from the District Attorney’s office and the Fraternal Order of Police. We also recap the Broad Street Run’s big return this past weekend, and some changes to regulations for “streeteries” that could be coming soon.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
We get it, the news is heavy these days - but sometimes we need the release of laughing about it. 1812 Productions, an all-comedy theater company in Philadelphia, leans into that with ‘This Is The Week That Is’, a live political satire show. They describe it as a cross between ‘SNL’, ‘The Daily Show’, and ‘The Carol Burnett Show’. We talk with 1812’s Producing Artistic Director and co-founder, Jennifer Childs, about how comedy can bring us together in this divided world and why laughing in a room together is so important.
Plus, we have Dave Uram’s Sports Fan of the Week, and Justin Udo gives us his weekly Udo haiku.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
The Penn Relays are back in full force for the first time since the pandemic started! Hadas Kuznits checks in from Franklin Field to tell us what the atmosphere is like for the return of this iconic Philly event. And Matt Leon tells us about Dr. Joshua Buch, who is running the 100 meter dash on his 85th birthday. Hear more about him on the latest episode of 1-On-1.
Plus, we have some new guest hosts! It’s bring your kid to work day, so we’re letting the kids of KYW Newsradio take over and give the next generation’s take on today’s news. They share their thoughts on Moderna’s vaccine for kids under 6, New Jersey’s plastic bag ban, and what the re-named Frank Sinatra service area should actually be called.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Today’s guest host is our Director of Podcasting Tom Rickert. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
For Muslims, Ramadan is the holiest month of the year, and with the recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions, celebrations are getting back to normal. But for one mosque in particular, another obstacle stands in the way: nearly two decades into its existence, Center City Mosque is still looking for a physical space to call its own. With Ramadan now in its final week, we hear from Center City Mosque’s Mohammed Shariff, and how he’s found an unexpected friend (and home) thanks to Father John Daya of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church.
We also catch up with KYW Newsradio’s Nina Baratti, who explains why during a month that revolves around fasting, local Muslims - led by State Senator Sharif Street - are participating in a Philabundance food drive in honor of Ramadan.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Homes in Black neighborhoods are undervalued by as much as $48,000 per unit, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says Black applicants are 3 times more likely to be denied by mortgage lenders than white applicants. So how can people of color, especially if they have low incomes, even try to compete to buy a home in this market? KYW’s Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams explains why those disparities exist and where aspiring homeowners in Philadelphia can turn for help.
Plus, Elon Musk is set to buy Twitter…for $44 billion. We hear what KYW listeners said they would do with that kind of money, and reporter Tim Jimenez takes a look at how Twitter could change under Musk’s ownership - what are the implications of more 'free speech' on the platform?
We also hear about a birthday celebration for Dulce Alavez, and how her family is still holding out hope of finding her after almost 3 years.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It was a busy weekend in Philadelphia, so today we’re catching you up on the latest headlines. The Philadelphia Police Department has created a new position: Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. We meet the PPD’s newest hire. Plus, Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel says the city has a fire problem after 3 children and 1 adult died in a rowhome fire in Kensington. South Jersey Rep. Donald Norcross joined a delegation visiting Europe to see the effects of the war in Ukraine firsthand - we hear his reaction. We have an update on Buddy the Cat, who’s made a new friend! Meanwhile the teens accused of sicking their dogs on him have a trial date set. And, support Philadelphians living with HIV on Thursday night with Dining Out for Life.
Some links we mentioned in the episode: GoFundMe for the family of the Kensington fire victims Our previous episode on how to keep your home safe from fires List of restaurants participating in Dining Out for Life
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Philadelphia’s reinstated mask mandate lasted all of four days before the Board of Health voted to end it. What’s with the back-and-forth? Dr. Darren Mareiniss from Einstein Medical Center joins us to discuss where this change came from and how it could affect Philadelphians’ trust in our city officials.
Plus, Dave Uram shares his Sports Fan of the Week, who really, really loves watching games. And Sabrina Boyd-Surka is working on a community theater production of ‘Urinetown’ - a musical that imagines a world where you have to pay to pee.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
First came Jay Wright's retirement announcement. Then came Joel Embiid's incredible game-winning 3-pointer in overtime. It was a crazy night in Philadelphia hoops. KYW Newsradio's Dave Uram helps us recap everything that happened and sort out what it all means.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Did you know that the very first Earth Day, which began 52 years ago, has roots in Philadelphia? It’s true, and Mary Bailey and Roland Wall from the Academy of Natural Sciences are here to give us a history lesson! They also share ideas about what we can do as a society to better protect the planet, and look at measures Philadelphia has taken to limit its carbon footprint. Plus, we get a preview of the Academy’s Earth Day Festival (click for details and ticket info)!
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
After 4 weeks, the federal bribery trial against Philadelphia Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson ended in a mistrial. KYW City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb catches us up on what happened, why the jury couldn’t make a decision, and what happens next.
Plus, today is 4/20…but New Jersey, which voted in 2020 to legalize recreational marijuana, is holding off on starting those sales until tomorrow. Why would they miss the biggest day of the year for weed smokers? We talk about that, plus whether or not the rollout is living up to the state’s promise to focus on social justice, with South Jersey reporter Mike Dougherty.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It’s been almost a year since the Archdiocese of Philadelphia closed Hallahan Catholic Girls’ High School, but an alumna is hoping to revive the school’s spirit in the form of something brand new. KYW Newsradio Education Reporter Mike DeNardo fills us in on the Center City Girls Academy’s push to open this fall, and what its mission tells us about the state of single-gender education.
Plus, we give a shoutout to seven Philadelphia principals who were recently recognized with a prestigious honor, and talk about a lawsuit that two trainers for the Philadelphia Flyers have filed against the team. And KYW Newsradio’s Tim Jimenez helps us make sense of yet another round of updated mask protocols implemented within the last 24 hours.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
The City of Philadelphia’s indoor mask mandate is back starting today, making us the only major city in the country to have one. Why is Philadelphia on its own here? Do the numbers outweigh the toll it takes on our state of mind to move backwards, never mind the confusion it causes? Plus, a group of business owners and residents have filed a lawsuit to stop the mandate. Does this suit have a chance of succeeding, and what are the consequences if it does? We bring in Dr. Robert Field, Professor of Law and Professor of Health Management & Policy at Drexel University, to help us sort through the chaos.
The Jawncast is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
10-year-old Donovan Bazemore from Upper Chichester has always loved music, but he never imagined he could be part of a musical until he saw The Lion King on Broadway. Only two years later, he’s starring as Young Simba in the same Broadway show that sparked his dream. We chat with Donovan and his mother, Dawn, about his journey from Delaware County to the bright lights of NYC.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Just about everyone deserves a second chance - whether you’ve got two legs or four. ACCT Philly partners with a national program designed to benefit both humans and dogs alike. KYW Newsradio’s John McDevitt tells us about “New Leash on Life,” and how it not only places incarcerated individuals in jobs, but gives shelter dogs a chance to survive.
We also share some important tips as tax day draws near, and talk about what Philadelphia Parks and Recreation is doing to make sure all of its pools are open this summer. Plus, with more people out and about in Center City, a non-profit organization is focused on keeping everyone safe.
People who need last-minute tax help can call the Community Legal Services hotline at 215-981-3700.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Frank James has been arrested in the mass shooting that happened Tuesday on a Brooklyn subway, but on Monday night, he was in Philadelphia. We talk about what investigators found in his apartment and storage unit as this story continues to develop.
And KYW reporter Justin Udo uses haiku to express his feelings about what happens in the news. This National Poetry Month, he’s sharing his outlet with the people of Philadelphia with a haiku-writing event at Love Park and a book release. We talk with Justin about the origins of haiku and why he thinks poetry can help everyone.
We also discuss Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit to Philadelphia and closures that could mess up your commute for quite a while on the Betsy Ross Bridge.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
To live with autism is to exist in a world that you sometimes can’t understand, and one that other times doesn’t understand you. Autism can lead to feelings of loneliness, confusion, and anxiety. It can also go undiagnosed for years, especially in women. KYW Newsradio’s Michelle Durham tells us a fascinating story about a Montgomery County family and how autism has touched their lives.
Plus, in light of today’s subway shooting in New York, we chat with friend of the pod Kristina Koppeser, KYW Newsradio’s digital managing editor who grew up in Brooklyn and used to take the N Train to work everyday. We also get an encouraging update on the sale of recreational marijuana in New Jersey, which could come sooner rather than later.
Here are some links we referenced during today’s episode: Durand Eagles Autism Challenge Autism Acceptance Month
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
COVID cases are on the rise in Philadelphia, so the city is reinstating the indoor mask mandate. KYW’s John McDevitt catches us up on the latest regulations. Plus, April is National Minority Health Month, and this week is Black Maternal Health Week. Racquel Williams, our Community Impact Reporter and host of Bridging Philly, explains what those mean and what extra challenges Black women face when bringing a child into this world.
We also discuss the rising prices of vacation rentals on the Jersey Shore, and one of Philadelphia’s Black “Rosie the Riveters” turns 100 years old!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It's Phillies' Opening Day and we take the show on the road! Brian heads down to Citizens Bank Park to chat with fans about Opening Day vibes, traditions, and hopes. We also chat with James Seltzer (no relation!) from the 94 WIP High Hopes Phillies podcast. He tells us why we should open our hearts to the Phillies, and whether they actually have a chance to not only make the playoffs, but do some serious damage. Plus, Phillies Executive Vice President David Buck talks about what fans can expect down at CBP this season!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Oftentimes when a child acts out, it stems from a mental health issue that they’re having trouble dealing with. That’s why Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer is working on a plan to improve mental and behavioral health services in schools. KYW’s Suburban Bureau Chief, Jim Melwert, shares with us what Stollsteimer told him about how we can get kids help when they need it most.
Plus, we mark a historical moment as Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson becomes the first Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court. We hear about a fundraiser for Ukraine being organized by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and his friend and neighbor, Bon Jovi. South Jersey hopes to get more filmmakers to shoot in the Garden State. And SEPTA launches a new campaign to get kids to read on the train.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Back in Russia, Dmitry Krymov is a successful, well-known director. Two days after his country invaded Ukraine, Krymov was on a flight from Moscow to New York, then traveled to Philadelphia to begin preparing for the Wilma Theater’s adaptation of “The Cherry Orchard,” originally written by the renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov. Now, Krymov doesn’t know if he’ll ever go back home. KYW Newsradio’s Hadas Kuznits tells us more.
Plus, we pay tribute to Bobby Rydell, the 1960s teenage music idol from Philadelphia who passed away. We also take a look at a major multi-state drug bust in Montgomery County, and how the legal cannabis industry is ramping up hiring in New Jersey.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
From plying us with eggnog and holiday cookies to sharing some incredible pumpkin-carving tips, Denise Nakano has become a great friend of The Jawncast. But due to having Japanese ancestry, members of her immediate family were subjected to incarceration at the discriminatory internment camps for Japanese-Americans during World War II. Denise joins us to talk about the lasting ramifications of this period in American history, and discusses the ways anti-Asian hate remains prevalent in our country.
You can learn more from the Philadelphia Japanese American Citizens League, including information on Japanese American Resettlement in Greater Philadelphia.
We also hear about how local leaders marked the 54th anniversary of the assination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and a Northeast Philadelphia man is using a one-person protest to raise money for humanitarian aid in Ukraine.
Plus, if our open to the show got you craving some ballpark grub, check out Mike DeNardo’s coverage of what’s new this season at Citizens Bank Park.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Animal lovers around the Philadelphia region - and even internationally - have been holding their breath while Buddy the Cat recovers from a terrible attack by two dogs in Frankford. Good news: Buddy is in stable condition and is now at home with his new foster parents! But there are many other animals in shelters who need our help. John McDevitt brings us up to speed on Buddy’s story and how we can help our other furry friends in need.
Donate or find a pet to adopt or foster at pspca.org.
Plus, Philadelphia had some winners at last night’s Grammy awards, Governor Wolf hopes to put $2 million towards resettling Ukrainian refugees in Pennsylvania, and street cleaning begins in 14 new Philadelphia neighborhoods, so make sure you know if you need to move your car.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
The Philadelphia School District made a big announcement Friday morning: the new superintendent will be Tony Watlington. KYW’s education reporter Mike DeNardo tells us what Watlington will bring to the district.
Plus, Philadelphia Theatre Week kicks off today! Theatre Philadelphia’s Executive Director LaNeshe Miller-White gives us a preview and explains how this celebration makes theatre more accessible and highlights shows beyond Center City - even beyond the city boundaries altogether.
Plus, Dave Uram stops by to introduce us to our Sports Fan of the Week, the Phandemic Krew, and tell us about two great hoops stories - Villanova men's basketball's Final Four run, and the Plymouth-Whitemarsh girls' basketball state championship win.
And we end with an Udo haiku in honor of Thursday’s Trans Day of Visibility.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Bruce Willis’s family announced on Wednesday that he’s retiring from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia. KYW’s Mike Dougherty helps us understand the brain disorder, and we look back on Willis’s career and connection to Philadelphia with Andre Bennett, our resident movie buff and writer of the weekly What to Watch.
Before that, all anyone was talking about was Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars. KYW Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams helps us take a closer look at the hair loss condition at the heart of that moment: alopecia.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
In a perfect world, Trans Day of Visibility, which brings awareness to discrimination faced by the transgender community and will be celebrated around the world on March 31st, wouldn’t be necessary. But our world is far from perfect, especially in respect to the treatment of marginalized populations, and in particular the trans community. Darius McLean, Director of the Arcila-Adams Trans Resource Center and Empowerment Programs at the William Way LGBT Community Center, shares his thoughts on ways to support Philadelphia’s trans community, and reflects on his own transition. He also previews a new documentary film he's been working on, We Are Still Here.
Plus, we talk with KYW Newsradio Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams about the Philadelphia Bar Association’s efforts to launch a pro bono name change clinic for members of the city’s LGBTQ community, and learn more about an anti-trans school sports bill moving through the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It’s been a busy week, but we couldn’t let you miss ‘Waitress’ at the Academy of Music. The musical, based on the 2007 film, has an all-female creative team - including music by Sara Bareilles - and three powerful female leads. Gabriella Marzetta, who plays Dawn, tells us the show is all about sisterhood. She talks with Sabrina Boyd-Surka on this bonus episode.
You can get tickets to see ‘Waitress’ through April 3 at kimmelculturalcampus.org.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Does Philadelphia get enough respect as a hub for groundbreaking research in healthcare and medicine? It certainly should, and the work of a team of Temple University researchers provides further evidence. KYW Newsradio’s Lynne Adkins shares her reporting on a huge discovery about the role CRISPR gene therapy could play in curing HIV.
We know that in Philadelphia, violence is beyond a serious problem. We talk about a new 24-hour hotline service the city has launched to provide support to at-risk individuals and communities. Plus, we give props to a Neumann University professor who’s curating a punk rock album to raise money for humanitarian aid in Ukraine, and an 83 (!) year old nurse from South Jersey who received a well-earned international recognition.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Everyone’s talking about Will Smith - you know, from West Philadelphia - slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars over a joke. Cathy Caldwell, Director of Operations for KYW Newsradio’s Traffic Center, happens to be a stand-up comedian on the side, and she’s concerned about how this could embolden audiences at regular comedy shows. We get into that as well as some highlights from the Oscars.
Plus, Temple’s campus safety director stepped down just as they announced plans to improve security. We also hear a piece of an in-depth interview with Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw from Bridging Philly. And Villanova has made the Final Four! But are all Philadelphians happy about that?
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Is history repeating itself? For friend of The Jawncast Mark Leuchter, the answer is pretty obvious. Despite being best known on social media for a Tweet that went viral after no one showed up to an essay-writing seminar where he offered free pizza, Mark is a professor of religion at Temple University and explains how Vladimir Putin is deploying religion - and specifically anti-Semitism - as a tool to justify Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Mark also makes custom guitar pedals, a craft he’s using to help raise funds for humanitarian aid in Ukraine. To hear Mark’s first appearance on the pod, click here.
It’s a Friday, so you know what that means! Sabrina brings you theater happenings around the city. This week, she chats with local playwright R. Eric Thomas about his production, Backing Track, at the Arden Theatre. And we’ve got our latest Philadelphia Sports Fan of the Week interview with Dave Uram, and not one but two (!) haiku from Justin Udo.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Throwing slaves overboard. Pouring acid into pools. America has a long, ugly history of diminishing the Black experience in water, which is the subject of a new exhibit - POOL: A Social History of Segregation - running now through September at the Fairmount Water Works. KYW Newsradio Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams recently checked it out, and shares some powerful takeaways.
We also discuss updates to Temple University’s campus safety plan highlighted by a grant program for landlords who improve security features on their properties. Plus, we learn about the School District of Philadelphia’s efforts to tap into federal funding for facility improvements, and a surprise appearance on a recent episode of the TV show The Masked Singer.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Outdoor dining became the thing to do during the pandemic, but the city has put more restrictions in place recently around streeteries - seating in what would otherwise be parking spots on the street. What’s Cooking host Hadas Kuznits fills us in on the latest rules and how local restaurants are responding.
We also hear about some local chefs who went out to help feed refugees at the Ukraine-Poland border with World Central Kitchen, as President Biden heads to Brussels to meet with NATO leaders. There may finally be a COVID vaccine for kids under 6 soon. And a local non-profit gets a big boost from multi-billionaire MacKenzie Scott.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
We’re getting to the point where we might need to seriously ask: what is City Hall better known for? Billy Penn or council members facing corruption charges? Six months after Bobby Henon went on trial, now it’s Kenyatta Johnson’s turn. KYW Newsradio’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb looks at the charges the longtime city politician is facing, and explains why the trial’s witness list has some surprises.
Plus, major developments were announced in the investigation into the deaths of two Pennsylvania State Troopers and a third man in a tragic accident on I-95. A 21-year old from Montgomery County is facing three counts each of third degree murder, homicide by vehicle DUI, and related charges. Hear what people are saying about the victims, and learn more about the person taken into custody.
We also look at a pilot program that SEPTA hopes will increase ridership, and discuss Jay’s big performance on the court at the Wells Fargo Center in the annual PAL halftime game.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Anyone who learned music as a kid will probably tell you how much it affected them, but many schools don’t have music education programs. Luckily, here in Philadelphia we have several organizations that provide music education to students who don’t get it through school. We hear about two of them today: Rock to the Future, which is having a fundraising concert this Friday, and Play on Philly, which just announced their Marian Anderson Young Artist Program.
We also talk about musical theater - the Kimmel Cultural Campus just announced their new season! Plus we hear about a terrible accident that happened on I-95 early this morning, and how West Philadelphia residents can get a free camera to help deter crime.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
With Ukraine at war, one of the country’s most renowned breweries was forced to halt operations and turn its facility into a factory for Molotov cocktails. For real. But helping Russia hasn’t completely diverted Pravda Brewery’s attention away from making beer. KYW Newsradio’s John McDevitt brings us a story about the efforts of several local breweries using Pravda’s own recipes to raise funds for Ukraine.
Plus, we take a look at the Philadelphia School District’s decision to push back the start time at many of its high schools for the upcoming 2022-23 academic year. And if you think a Golden Girls themed murder mystery has pretty great potential, then you’d be right!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It’s been almost six months since Dr. William Hite announced he’d be stepping down as superintendent of the Philadelphia School District at the end of the summer. As the search for his replacement reaches the finish line, each of the three finalists were in town for interviews and private and public meetings this week. KYW Newsradio’s Education Reporter Mike DeNardo tells us more about the candidates - John Davis, Krish Mohip, and Tony Watlington - and also examines why neither a homegrown Philadelphian nor a woman made the final cut.
We also talk about an exciting state grant for FDR Park, and the emergence of an omicron subvariant.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
We have something that hasn't really been present in many conflicts through history: social media. People on the streets of Ukraine are able to show the world exactly what is happening. On the other hand, it's also easier than ever to spread misinformation, propaganda, and disinformation. How do we tell the real from the fake? How are some influencers working with governments in good ways - and why are others trying to take advantage of the moment? And do the benefits of social media in a crisis like this outweigh its problems? We ask our digital pros, Kristina Koppeser and Sara Smith.
We also hear some of what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said to Congress this morning. And here in Philadelphia, the Chestnut Street bridge is finally reopening!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
New Jersey has dedicated millions of dollars to fighting the opioid epidemic - most recently, $641 million from a national settlement with drug companies. Mike Dougherty tells us how that and previous money is going to be spent to treat people with addiction from a holistic, human perspective. Plus, Jay shares a personal story that demonstrates just how deep this crisis goes and how it affects almost everyone.
We also talk about a shortage on material to make Ukrainian flags, how Airbnb is being used to help Ukrainian people, and Dine Latino Restaurant Week in Philadelphia.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Could plant-based chewing gum really slow the spread of COVID-19? According to trials conducted by researchers at Penn, the answer is not only a resounding "yes," but the same application could also be applied to curbing the spread of other viruses, such as the cold and flu, even HIV and HPV. KYW Newsradio's Lynne Adkins takes a look at the science and data behind a fascinating discovery.
Plus, we hear how a local Ukrainian-American is helping preserve the sound that he says represents the "soul of Ukraine" through the playing of an instrument called the "bandura." And, over the weekend, revelers welcomed back Philadelphia's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade after a two-year hiatus.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
OKLAHOMA! isn’t just a revival. The classic musical, playing through March 20th at the Forrest Theatre, has essentially gotten a full reboot. KYW Newsradio Digital Managing Editor Kristina Koppeser and Sabrina Boyd-Surka went to opening night. They give us their reviews, plus we hear from Sis, who plays a very non-traditional Ado Annie.
We also debut a couple new segments! Dave Uram chats with the Philadelphia Sports Fan of the Week, and Justin Udo leaves us with a Friday haiku. Plus, President Biden visited Philadelphia today. Find out why, and where he went.
To make a submission to be KYW Newsradio’s Philadelphia Sports Fan of the Week, click here.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
If your home was being threatened, would you go to a war zone to help? Several Ukrainians from Philadelphia and Bucks County are doing exactly that. KYW's John McDevitt has been gathering their stories, and we hear a few of them today.
Plus, utility costs are rising with the ban on Russian oil - we share some resources that can help. A new, unwelcome creature might be moving up to the East Coast. And Dave Uram tells us how the Sixers are feeling about seeing Ben Simmons - perhaps unwelcome in his own right - again tonight.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Say it ain’t so! New Jersey is the last state in the country where pumping your own gas is illegal, but change could be on the way. For many New Jerseyans, full service at the pumps is a point of Garden State pride. KYW Newsradio South Jersey reporter Mike Dougherty tells us why lawmakers are taking up this debate again, and whether a new bill supporting self-service even has a chance of passing.
Plus, today is the day schools in Philadelphia go mask-optional. Hear from an elementary school principal about what she expects her students to do. We also get an update on a Philly-bound tanker with Russian oil that was diverted to France on the heels of new U.S. sanctions.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
We're celebrating great women in Philadelphia today! Antionette Lee tells us about Lorene Cary, an author and playwright from West Philly who's keeping Black stories alive for future generations. Plus Shara Dae Howard's Newsmaker of the Week is a local family who couldn't find any fairytale movies about Black princesses - so they made one of their own.
Hear more of both of those stories on the latest episode of Bridging Philly.
We also tell you what's going on around town for Women's History Month, and President Biden bans Russian oil as the war in Ukraine continues to escalate.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Pennsylvania lawmakers are resuming talks about legalizing recreational marijuana, and there's a surprising amount of agreement. KYW Newsradio's John McDevitt tells us how those conversations are going and how Pennsylvania can learn from the successes and mistakes of other states, like New Jersey.
Plus, local lawmakers talked with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the weekend, Philadelphia's people and bars are finding ways to help Ukraine from afar, and Jefferson Health is working on a possible treatment for long COVID symptoms.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Whether you're watching on the screen or the stage, there are plenty of reasons to head to the theater this weekend.
For diehard fans of the Caped Crusader, Robert Pattinson makes his masked debut in The Batman. The Jawncast has a whole lotta love for Batman, and we tell you why. Plus, we talk to movie-goers at the historic Hiway Theater in Jenkintown, who attended a special event for The Batman's premiere.
Also, as the war in Ukraine continues to unfold, the Philadelphia Orchestra is set to deliver a timely performance of Fiddler on the Roof. And the 25th anniversary tour of RENT is in town, featuring homegrown talent Shafiq Hicks!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
No matter where you're from, food is one thing that can unify us. And having food from home where you're far away brings an important sense of stability, comfort, and connection to your culture.
Today we have several stories that demonstrate the power of food. What's Cooking host Hadas Kuznits speaks with two Ukrainian women making food for their community in Northeast Philadelphia and tells us about a bake sale that's raising funds to provide food for people in Ukraine. She also tells us about RiceVan, a delivery service started to bring specialty Asian foods to the suburbs during the pandemic that's now delivering cultural meals to Afghan refugees.
And of course, we talk about the food that defines Philadelphia - hear about March Cheesesteak Madness and how Philadelphia hoagies have a place way out in Denver.
You can donate to World Central Kitchen, who are serving fresh meals to people in Ukraine, at wck.org.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Almost exactly two years after the city's first COVID press conference, Philadelphia is lifting its indoor mask mandate. We hear the details and what went into this decision from KYW City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb. Pat also tells us about a controversial plan that aims to improve safety along Washington Ave.
We discuss highlights from President Biden's State of the Union address and the latest in Ukraine. And we end with a heartwarming story about therapy dogs for incarcerated women in Delaware.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Northeast Philadelphia is home to many Eastern European immigrants. Whether they're from Ukraine, Russia, or someplace else nearby, they're feeling the pain of Ukraine right now. KYW's Tim Jimenez spoke with New World Association, an organization that helps these immigrants adjust to life in the states, about how they're all pulling together in the face of the attacks on Ukraine.
We also learn about a feminist history tour in the city to celebrate Women's History Month, and a program providing resources beyond the financial to small minority-owned businesses. Plus, would you play Main Line Monopoly?
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Russia is not letting up against Ukraine - we hear how local politicians are responding, plus a change you might notice at your local liquor store. But for an uplifting change of pace, we talk with Matt Leon, host of KYW's 1-on-1 podcast, about a swimmer from West Chester University who had to tap into his lifeguard training while at lunch during the state championship meet...and then went back and won his event. We also hear an update on Philadelphia's vaccine mandate for city workers, and Center City SIPS happy hours will be back this summer!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It's been a heavy week, so Sabrina and Brian are taking a load off and doing some of what they enjoy most. Sabrina talks - and dances! - with the cast of 'Beautiful', the musical based on Carole King's music and life that's playing at the Academy of Music this weekend. And Brian tells us about Other Half Brewing Company, a famed Brooklyn brewery that's opening a new location in Philadelphia.
But first, we have to update you on the war between Ukraine and Russia. Plus, President Biden announces his Supreme Court nominee, and the CDC has some updates on their mask recommendations.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
What has been feared and dreaded finally came to be: Russia has launched attacks on Ukraine. Why is Russian President Vladimir Putin doing this now? How are Ukrainians - both in Ukraine and here in Philadelphia - responding? And the biggest question of all: what happens next? We discuss this with KYW's Matt Leon, who spoke with two political science and history professors at Saint Joseph's University for KYW Newsradio In Depth earlier today. We also hear from Dave Uram about a prayer service at a Ukrainian church in Jenkintown, and Hadas Kuznits speaks with a Ukrainian immigration lawyer in Huntingdon Valley who's trying to help clients connect with their families.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode
As Russia mobilizes troops near the Ukraine border, the threat of an invasion seems more and more real. KYW Newsradio's Nina Baratti has been speaking with members of Philadelphia's Ukrainian community to find out how they've been coping with this crisis, while also sending support to family and friends back in their home country. We also hear more about a fight that broke out in a Philadelphia courtroom during a preliminary hearing of a murder trial. Plus, find out why the Philadelphia police union has decided to file a lawsuit challenging the city's new "Driving Equality Bill."
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Carjackings more than doubled in Philadelphia last year, and are on the rise again through the first two months of 2022. While these increases are consistent with national trends, the city is trying to crack down. On the heels of the Philadelphia Police Department making an arrest to bust a significant carjacking ring, Deputy Commissioner Ben Naish talks about the factors he believes are behind the spike in carjacking, and what people can do to stay safe if someone tries to take their car. Plus, we recap Penn State's record-setting 50th THON, and discuss the importance of a new pilot doula program in Pennsylvania for incarcerated women.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Want to know what - and who - makes The Jawncast happen? You know Jay, Brian, and Sabrina, but we want to introduce you to the rest of our team who don't get on the mic so often. First up: Holli Stephens, KYW Newsradio's Digital Content Producer, who makes all our visual content - photos, videos, graphic design, you name it! Holli talks about how she got into photography, why she named her adorable dog Cherry Nelson, and even tells us about her choir days and playing the cello! You can follow Holli on Twitter @wordsbyholli and buy her photo book here: https://www.hollistephens.com/new-products/in-my-head.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith , hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
The City of Philadelphia announced on Wednesday that they're phasing out COVID restrictions, starting with the vaccine mandate for indoor dining. Things are changing so fast, how can you know what's allowed where? By listening to The Jawncast, of course! We catch you up on the latest guidelines in PA and NJ, and KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb gives us the rundown of what's changing in the city. Then, What's Cooking (https://omny.fm/shows/whats-cooking) host Hadas Kuznits (https://twitter.com/hadaskuznits) tells us how restaurant owners feel about all this and what it will mean when you go out to eat.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith), hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer). Follow @TheJawncast (www.twitter.com/TheJawncast) on Twitter for every new episode.
Imagine getting a knock on the door and a complete stranger is screaming in your face that you don't have a right to live in the home you're renting. It sounds harsh, but these types of confrontations happen right here in Philadelphia, and KYW Newsradio Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams witnessed the aftermath of one. She explains how property owners use "move-in evictions" to try and give renters the boot with little to no notice, and what resources renters can use to fight this strong-arm tactic.
We also talk about what the concept of "home" could mean for a superstar professional athlete like James Harden, and people who are trying to navigate the insane housing market.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Looking for a way to acknowledge Black History Month and support Black, women-owned businesses in Philadelphia? Check out "Sisterhood Sit-In: The Trolley Tour"! KYW Newsradio's Racquel Williams explains the concept behind the tour and why we could all use more sisterhood right now.
If you want to join in on the tour, visit www.wearemuchdifferent.com/sisterhood.
Plus, Dr. Bernice King - daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - speaks at an event for West Chester schools. We also hear about an update that could save two hospitals in Chester County, and how CHOP is providing help for kids with asthma by renovating their homes.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Dating has looked very different over the past two years. On Valentine's Day, we talk with Kristi D. Price - a Philadelphia area matchmaker and dating coach - about how to find the right person, even in a pandemic.
We also hear from Rachel Ferguson, Visit Philly's Chief Innovation & Global Diversity Officer, about the city’s famous LOVE Park, what's happening there this Valentine's Day, and how it became such a beloved symbol for all of Philadelphia.
And we can't forget about the Super Bowl! We chat about the game, halftime, and the commercials, plus we hear about a few unique parties that happened in our area.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
'Hadestown' - the Tony and Grammy-winning musical about two classic Greek love stories - hit the Academy of Music stage this week, and brought with it an Ardmore native, Bex Odorisio. She plays one of the three Fates. Bex chats with us about coming back home, how the Lower Merion Players launched her theatrical career, and how 'Hadestown' takes two old stories and makes them new.
Get tickets to see 'Hadestown' through February 20th at kimmelculturalcampus.org.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Opera singer and activist Marian Anderson is a legend in Philadelphia's history, and particularly our Black history. Her home - a regular rowhome in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood - has been preserved as a museum, but it was flooded in 2020 and suffered almost $500,000 in damages. KYW Newsradio's Shara Dae Howard tells us how they're doing now, why it's so important to get their doors back open, and how you can help.
Donate to the Marian Anderson Museum here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kyjj43-support-for-marian-anderson-historical-society
Plus, two local college students are competing on Jeopardy! And we have an update on the cause of Bob Saget's death, and a drainage issue at Philadelphia's police headquarters that might make you lose your lunch.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
It's been nearly two years of the pandemic. There's burnout everywhere, especially among the teachers entrusted with helping our kids. In fact, the National Education Association conducted a survey and found 55% of its members are thinking about getting out of the profession all together. What's the pulse among Philadelphia teachers? KYW Newsradio Education Reporter Mike DeNardo fills us in.
Plus, it's National Pizza Day, and we tell you why we think Philadelphia has the best damn pizza anywhere. We also get an update about a massive watermain break in Southwest Philadelphia, and hear why some public school students recently went without breakfast.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
New Jersey voted to legalize recreational marijuana in 2020. So...why are we still not able to buy legal weed? KYW Newsradio's Mike Dougherty explains as much as we know - or don't know - about the hold up, why it's frustrating cannabis businesses large and small, and how it's tied to issues of equity.
Plus, how are robots helping seniors in Delaware County? We hear about that in our headlines, along with Philadelphia's push to get public input on fair housing and vocational students who are getting certified a year late due to the pandemic.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
When it comes to celebrating Black History Month, the Philadelphia area offers a wealth of artistic displays and immersive experiences. KYW Newsradio's Justin Udo has checked out a few exhibits so far, and reports back.
Plus, there's plenty of breaking mask news (our favorite kind!) to catch you up on. New Jersey and Delaware have plans to start lifting mandates in schools and other venues soon, while a federal judge overturns an optional mask policy in a Montgomery County school district. We also talk about a 16-year old North Philadelphian making waves in Hollywood, and a big donation from the Eagles to benefit local girls sports.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Do you have your Girl Scout cookie hookup? We have ours - Sara Smith, our Digital Engagement Editor. She joins us for a cookie feast, including taste testing the new Adventurefuls. We also talk with Amy Wilson, founder and co-owner of Milk Jawn, who has created ice cream flavors using Girl Scout cookies! We get to taste those, too, and hear how the "small batch, premium ice cream jawn" grew out of Amy's kitchen.
Follow Milk Jawn on Instagram, @MilkJawn.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Robot bartenders? Pins being used as currency? These are just some of the things NBC 10 and Telemundo 62 reporter Miguel Martinez-Valle (https://twitter.com/MiguelMValle) has discovered in Beijing, where he'll be spending the next few weeks covering the Olympics. On the eve of the Opening Ceremony, Miguel checks in and gives us a sense of what it's like on the ground in the Chinese capital, as strict COVID-19 protocols and diplomatic boycotts serve as part of the backdrop for the Winter Games.
We also talk about the Biden Administration's new push to curb gun violence, and ways you can celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chinatown . Plus, "Abbott Elementary" creator and Philadelphia native Quinta Brunson gets a big surprise.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith), hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
In cities and the nearby suburbs that are crowded with buildings and roads, an urban farm is (literally) a breath of fresh air. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture just authorized a round of grants to support urban farms, including ones in the Philadelphia area like FarmerJawn in Elkins Park. We hear more about FarmerJawn and why these grants will help the whole community from KYW Newsradio reporter John McDevitt.
Plus, it's 2-22-22, and it's Groundhog Day! We learn about New Jersey's own clairvoyant rodent. We also discuss a pilot program providing lawyers for tenants facing evictions, and a nonprofit that's helping get school supplies to teachers in Delaware County.
If you're facing eviction and need help, go to www.phillytenant.org or call 267-443-2500.
If you're a teacher in Delaware County and want to sign up for Teachers' Teammates, visit www.teachersteammates.org.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
When it comes to finding the next superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, there's a lot at stake for everyone in the city - whether you're a parent or not. KYW Newsradio Education Reporter Mike DeNardo tells us why, and has the scoop on the current applicant pool (which currently tops 400 candidates!).
To mark the beginning of Black History Month, we also discuss the city's celebration of abolitionist Harriet Tubman's 200th birthday. Plus, we cover the latest info about a possible COVID-19 vaccine for young children, and say so long to Tom Brady.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
Hooray! It's our first official episode as The Jawncast! We're excited for the next phase of the pod, and pumped you're along for the ride. Pennsylvania's Commonwealth Court made waves by overturning the state's mail-in voting law. But...not so fast, says KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb, who explains why the decision could ultimately get overruled.
Plus, we share stories from the big weekend snowstorm that socked the Philadelphia area, and look at how the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia are affecting Ukrainians living in the region. Also, hear how SEPTA plans to address driver shortages impacting routes that serve Philadelphia public school students.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith , hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
You may have noticed a change around here. What was The Rundown is now The Jawncast. Jay, Brian, and Sabrina chat with our director of podcasting, Tom Rickert, about what you can expect from this new jawn.
Spoiler: The Philly news you need to know, fast-paced and right to the point, meaningful conversations about important Philly area stories and why they matter, and as much fun as we can legally have during normal business hours.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheJawncast on Twitter for every new episode.
With each passing year, the world loses more and more Holocaust survivors, leaving fewer people who can speak first-hand to the atrocities the Nazis committed against the Jewish people and other marginalized communities. To mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day, KYW Newsradio's Hadas Kuznits, a dual citizen in the United States and Israel, discusses the origins of this day of memoriam, and explains why it's so critical for future generations to be educated about the Holocaust.
We also hear from Jill Maderer, senior rabbi at Congregation Rodeph Shalom (https://rodephshalom.org) on North Broad Street in Philadelphia, who shares her thoughts about combatting anti-Semitism and standing up to hate. Plus, learn more about the fate of a new Stephen Starr project proposing to turn the old Boyd Theatre into a sports gaming - dining venue.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
On the anniversary of the deaths of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, Jay reflects on what it was like making that announcement on air two years ago. We hear about a new book that describes Kobe's life in Lower Merion before the NBA, 'The Rise: Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality'.
Plus we get an update from Ya Fav Trashman, who's launched a petition after trash was dumped in the spot he and 100 volunteers just cleaned on MLK Day. And we recap the biggest news of the day, including Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer's retirement and a new CHOP location in King of Prussia.
You can read and sign Ya Fav Trashman's petition here: https://www.change.org/p/philadelphia-city-council-add-cameras-to-illegal-dump-sites-in-philadelphia-now
Hear the In Depth episode on the new book about Kobe Bryant here: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/philadelphia-columnist-book-kobe-bryant-early-life
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith, hosted and produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Three Sharon Hill police officers have been charged in the shooting death of an 8-year-old girl outside a high school football stadium, the latest in a tragedy that the Delaware County town has been grappling with since August. Today, KYW Newsradio's Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert breaks down the whole story - how that night unfolded, who's been charged with what and why, and what, if anything, we can learn from this.
We also hear from officials who say the omicron peak has likely passed in our area, and we get reactions from West Philadelphia residents to Governor Wolf's pledge of $15 million to fight gun violence across the state.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith.
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
In 2017, leaders across the United States came together to create the first-ever National Day of Racial Healing. Now in its sixth year, the event is as relevant as ever, and encourages Americans to engage in a deeper understanding of social justice and equality through honest dialogue and conversations about race. KYW Newsradio's Racquel Williams and Antionette Lee, co-hosts of Bridging Philly (https://twitter.com/BridgingPhilly) with Shara Dae-Howard, speak about the importance of the National Day of Racial Healing, while also recapping how the Philadelphia area marked Martin Luther King Jr., Day.
In today's headlines segment, we discuss breaking news in the grand jury investigation of 8-year old Fanta Bility's death, and hear from the heroic pilot who last week successfully crash landed a medical helicopter in Delaware County. Also, an Apple AirTag stalking case hits Montgomery County.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith.
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wouldn't want his birthday to be seen as just an easy day off from work. That's why we acknowledge it as a day of service. We talk with Todd Bernstein, the founder of the Greater Philadelphia MLK Day of Service, about how this tradition came to be, why it's so important to the city of Philadelphia, and the mission behind this year's events. We also bring back a friend of the podcast, Ya Fav Trashman, who's hosting a cleanup in North Philly on Monday. And we learn some lesser-known history of the civil rights movement in Philadelphia and the local pastor who inspired the lyrics to "We Shall Overcome".
Check out Ya Fav Trashman on Instagram: instagram.com/_yafavtrashman The MLK Day of service website: mlkdayofservice.org
The rundown is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
After new details were released on the cause of the Fairmount fire, we turn to KYW Newsradio's Michelle Durham, who trained with the Philadelphia Fire Academy, to better understand what happened. She tells us what that day was like for her, how the firefighters she knows are coping with the trauma, and how we can keep ourselves safe, especially those of us living in similar Philadelphia apartments.
We also hear about the helicopter crash on Tuesday in Drexel Hill and moves by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy regarding same-sex marriage and COVID precautions.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith.
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
We all may have felt like Danny Tanner was our second dad, but KYW's Jeff Asch knew a very different Bob Saget off screen. They were friends growing up in Philadelphia, where they worked together at the Food Fair deli before both attending Temple University. Jeff joins us to share some memories of the man behind the jokes after Saget's unexpected death.
We also recap the latest COVID updates, including school mask mandates in New Jersey and relaxed guidance from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Plus, we hear what Hadas Kuznits learned on What's Cooking (https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/podcasts/whats-cooking-231) about mocktails for "Dry January" and beyond.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith.
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer .
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
January 10th marks the anniversary of David Bowie's death, and Philadelphia takes this time as an opportunity to celebrate his life with Philly Loves Bowie Week. We talk with KYW Newsradio's Andre Bennett and Justin Udo about why David Bowie had such a strong connection to Philadelphia, some of the events happening in his honor this week, and the impact he left on our lives.
Plus, we remember the late Bob Saget, who died suddenly on Sunday. We also talk about how people - and animals - around the city are helping victims of the Fairmount fire, and Philadelphia's mother-son poet laureate duo.
The Rundown is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Hold up. Climate change tells us something about how our beer tastes?! True fact, according to NBC10 meteorologist Steve Sosna. Steve is as passionate about the weather as they come, so we wanted to chat with him not only about the next winter storm set to hit the Philadelphia area, but also about some crazy yet telling signs of climate change.
Plus, we get updates on Wednesday's rowhome fire in Fairmount that killed 12 people, while Jay reflects about being on the air during the January 6th, 2021 Capitol insurrection. And, on a more lighthearted note, we talk about a...pandemic baby boom!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith .
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
On Wednesday morning, a multi-family home in Philadelphia's Fairmount neighborhood erupted in flames. Adults and children were tragically killed in the fire. KYW's reporters were on the scene immediately. While a lot of information is still coming out and changing, we take you through what happened on the morning of January 5, 2021 through the voices of our reporters, neighborhood residents, and city officials.
The rundown is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Thought you saw the last of virtual learning? Think again. The explosive spread of the omicron variant after the holidays has caused school districts throughout the Philadelphia area to pivot quickly and re-think their COVID-19 protocols. We touch base with KYW Newsradio Education Reporter Mike DeNardo to learn more about why (and how) the Philadelphia School District decided at the last minute to convert more than 80 of its schools to virtual. Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert checks in from the suburbs, where masking policies are still a hot-button issue.
Plus, hear more about fallout from the snowstorms that hit parts of the Jersey shore and Delaware, and some potentially encouraging news about the state of the pandemic.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
We're kicking off the new year the best way we know how - with a rundown of the latest headlines. First, we hear how Philadelphia's New Year's celebrations went. Then we tackle COVID news - the first day of the city's vaccine mandate for indoor dining, Omicron's effects on local schools, and mask function vs. fashion. We touch on New Jersey's minimum wage and the Eagles making the playoffs. And finally, we honor two great lives lost in the past week - John Madden and Betty White.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith .
Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
As the year comes to a close, the KYW Newsradio Original Podcast production team gets together to reflect on what we've made this year. Director of Podcasting Tom Rickert and producers Brian Seltzer and Sabrina Boyd-Surka talk about episodes of The Rundown, In Depth, 1-on-1, and Gone Cold that stood out to us, plus a few things we're listening to from outside our walls.
Go back and listen to all the episodes we mentioned here: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/best-kyw-original-podcasts-2021
On the last day before our holiday break, we want to acknowledge all the diverse celebrations that happen during this season. KYW reporter Hadas Kuznits is back to tell us about 'A Child's Celebration', a series that she's been doing for 20 years talking with children about how they celebrate the holidays. Listen to this year's stories here: www.kywnewsradio.com/celebration.
Plus, Ivan Henderson, VP of Programming at the African American Museum in Philadelphia, teaches us about Kwanzaa and tells us what AAMP is doing to share this period of reflection with the Philadelphia community. Check out the museum's Kwanzaa activities here: www.aampmuseum.org/calendar.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith. Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
We can't focus on anything other than the holidays at this point, so we're just going to talk about that! KYW reporter Hadas Kuznits tells the story of how several multi-generational small businesses in South Philadelphia came together to save Christmas - and our sacred cannolis - this year. Plus, the multitalented Andre Bennett, who writes our weekly What to Watch list, joins us to discuss holiday movies. What makes a Christmas movie, and does that include Die Hard?
The Rundown is Jay Scott Smith, Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer. Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
It's a KYW Newsradio podcast x digital team group chat! Holli Stephens and Rachel Kurland talk about crazy places to find Santa, Andre Bennett gives some serious streaming takes (fans of Stranger Things beware...), and Brian Seltzer and Sabrina Boyd-Surka chime in with thoughts about dining options during the holidays.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
It's the last weekend before Christmas! So we're running down all the best things to do in Philadelphia to celebrate the season with KYW reporter John McDevitt. We cover the Christmas Village, light shows, LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo, and of course, the Mummers Parade. Plus, KYW midday anchor Denise Nakano graces us with her artistic skills again, this time with cookies! And Brian tries egg nog for the first time…listen to hear his verdict!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
SEPTA's been in the news a lot lately, and the reasons haven't been great. But for the holiday season, we have a feel-good story about SEPTA spreading cheer with their annual holiday decorating contest. Hop along the Willy Wonka bus and Winter Wonderland trolley with Sabrina Boyd-Surka, as she talks to SEPTA drivers and staff, and hear from SEPTA's Chief Officer of Surface Transportation Chris Valentín about the origins of this new public transportation tradition.
Plus, we discuss the latest holiday health and safety protocols coming from City Hall, and the efforts of a local SPCA to provide relief to animal rescue shelters in Kentucky, which was hit hard by catastrophic tornadoes last week.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith. Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
A deferred dunk? Fertilizing an inconsistent football team? COVID robbing our one good team of its title hopes? When you think of Philadelphia sports in 2021, what's the first thing that comes to your mind? To recap a year of (mostly) lows and (occasional) highs, we conduct a big 'ole Rundown roundtable with some of our friends at KYW Newsradio -- Matt Leon, Dave Uram, and Jay Sorgi. Hopefully we don't cringe or cry too much - maybe we'll even find something to smile about!
The Rundown is Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith), Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB), and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
Package theft - AKA porch piracy - always increases around the holidays, and it's an even bigger problem now that people are doing more of their shopping online. We bring in KYW reporter Antionette Lee to share our porch pirate stories and find out how to stop them. Plus we talk about some of the biggest stories of the day: Philadelphia adds new vaccinate mandates at restaurants, the decision on mask mandates is back in the hands of Pennsylvania schools, and local organizations send help to tornado victims in the South and Midwest.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
On a much-anticipated movie release day, we hear from Ana Isabelle, who plays Rosalia in Stephen Spielberg's 'West Side Story'. She talks about her visit to Philadelphia and how the film incorporated authentic Puerto Rican culture. We also invite some of the KYW digital team members to weigh in on some hot topics of the week - from Charles Barkley naming his daughter after a local mall to how traffic here compares to the rest of the country - and we test our knowledge of how to pronounce challenging words like 'cheugy', 'omicron', and Jason Kelce's last name.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
This is the second time Phillies legend Dick Allen has missed the Baseball Hall of Fame by one vote. KYW sports reporter Dave Uram thinks Allen deserves to be in there, and that the Hall of Fame is just too hard to get into. He joins us today to talk about how Allen's bad reputation could have affected the vote and what he was really like, on and off the field. We also discuss the Eagles nominating Jason Kelce for NFL Man of the Year and the Flyers firing their head coach.
In today's headlines: Pfizer says their vaccine booster "neutralizes" the COVID omicron variant, NASCAR driver Kyle Larson makes a change and a comeback after using a racial slur, and the Battleship New Jersey honors the 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
Lots of people have been trying to figure out how to solve Philadelphia's gun violence crisis, but ManUpPHL (www.manupphl.org) surveyed young men who have been affected by it. We hear about how this study was conducted, the stories those young men told, and the suggested solutions that came out of it. We also talk about the recent rally at Temple University after student Samuel Collington was shot and killed.
Our headlines include an update on the consequences for Sunoco after a drilling fluid leak in Marsh Creek Park and discrepancies in police reports of gun arrests. Plus we ask, how sinful is Philadelphia?
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (www.twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (www.twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
It's official. Omicron is here in the Philadelphia. But what do we really know about the spread of the latest COVID-19 variant? Learn about this story and more on this week's Monday "pod-pourri!"
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The city's commerce director, Michael Rashid, resigned over the weekend after anti-Semitic sentiment was discovered on his social media feed.
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Cumberland County, NJ is launching a new pilot police program that prioritizes mental health crisis management.
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The 76ers' Buy Black campaign (https://www.nba.com/sixers/community/buy-black) is back for another year. The team's Chief Diversity and Impact Officer, David Gould, explains why the initiative is so important to the organization.
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There's been a recall on...ham?! Find out what it means for one of our producers. Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (https://twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (https://twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
Theater workers and audiences everywhere are mourning composer Stephen Sondheim's death, and that includes Philadelphia. The Arden Theatre has put a particular focus on producing Sondheim's shows over the years, and Producing Artistic Director Terry Nolan has worked with the man himself on several occasions. Terry joins us to honor Sondheim's legacy and the ways his music carries across time.
Plus, Sabrina Boyd-Surka found a fellow performer right down the hall! She and Glen Macnow of SportsRadio 94WIP both perform at the Players Club of Swarthmore, so they talked about the show that Glen is in right now, Anything Goes.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (https://twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (https://twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
We're taking on some tough topics today. KYW Newsradio reporter Tim Jimenez walks us through several incidents of gun violence at SEPTA's 69th Street Station and near Temple's campus, and how Temple is addressing the issue. Then, City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb joins us to talk about a Stop Asian Hate rally that followed a violent bullying attack of a high school student on SEPTA, plus the latest advice from City Hall on COVID and the omicron variant. Finally, we discuss Al Schmidt's departure from the Board of Elections after defending Philadelphia's results last year, as he steps into the role of president and CEO of the Committee of Seventy.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith . Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
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Light your menorahs! Spin your dreidels! Scarf down some latkes and jelly donuts! Car parades! Hanukkah is here. But in 2021, the Festival of Lights is taking on a deeper meaning for Philadelphia's Jewish population. KYW Newsradio's Hadas Kuznits explains that with antisemitism on the rise in America, Jewish people believe it's more important than ever to display religious pride. Plus, we discuss some local headlines, including the timing of yet another Pennsylvania mask mandate coinciding with the emergence of the Omicron variant, and a possible supply chain shortage of...liquor and booze?!
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith . Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer .
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
After the Pennsylvania Supreme Court vacated charges against Bill Cosby in June, prosecutors are now asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review the decision. How did we get here, and could Cosby end up back in jail? KYW's Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert (https://twitter.com/JMelwert) breaks down the case and what he's taken away from it. We also talk about Philadelphia's new public defender, SEPTA's plan to address safety, the FDA's meeting to discuss the Merck COVID-19 pill (plus the unexpected source of its name), and Dr. Oz joining the Pennsylvania senate race.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (https://twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (https://twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
Coming off the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, there's lots of news to catch up on! From President Biden addressing the emergence of the omicron coronavirus variant to Jack Dorsey stepping down as Twitter's CEO, Monday was packed with big headlines. Plus, Philadelphia's got a professional sports team in a title race! We hear from KYW Newsradio resident soccer ace (and Broadcast Managing Editor), Greg Orlandini (https://twitter.com/GFO1025), about a big win that's put the Union on the cusp of the Major League Soccer championship game. And on the heels of a new documentary about The Beatles dropping, local broadcasting icon Larry Kane speaks with the film's director, the renowned Peter Jackson.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (https://twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (https://twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
For lots of people, Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness. It's not just "who" you gather with, it's also "where." More specifically, the idea of "home" is central to the holiday. But what do you do when "home" as you know it doesn't exist? Back in September, KYW Newsradio's Hadas Kuznits (https://twitter.com/hadaskuznits) reported from Upper Dublin Township in the aftermath of Ida. A few days ago, she checked in on the area to see how the community is doing ahead of Thanksgiving and the start of a very different holiday season. Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (https://twitter.com/jayscottsmith). Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (https://twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
We're here to help you prep for your Thanksgiving feast. We talk with KYW Newsradio anchor Michelle Durham - who happens to have trained with the Philadelphia Fire Department - about how to prevent cooking fires, and we learn about her history as a firefighter. Then, we bring in reporter Mike Dougherty, who checked in with some local food banks on how they're preparing to meet a higher demand in a second pandemic holiday season. Finally, our Digital Editor Rachel Kurland and reporter John McDevitt talk about some holiday foods and decorations that you may not have known are bad for your pets.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith. Produced by Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Our favorite green flightless bird is getting his original look back, and who better to tell us how the Phanatic feels about it than his best friend, Tom Burgoyne? We talk with Tom about the Phanatic's evolution, his close friendships with other mascots as well as National League MVP Bryce Harper, and why the Phanatic is so beloved. Tom also tells us a bit about what it takes to be a mascot.
In our headlines, we talk about COVID booster shots, Atlantic City's first supermarket in 15 years, and a special surprise for a father and daughter who love the Eagles.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith) with Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
A caravan by local clergy to a Georgia courthouse to protest racially-charged speech surrounding the trial of men accused of killing Ahmaud Arbery. A guilty verdict for a South Jersey 20-year old who promoted antisemitism. A new seminar for Temple's spurned pizza professor Mark Leuchter, whose tweet about no one showing up for a free essay-writing workshop went viral. Sometimes it's hard to find good in a news cycle, but on this episode of The Rundown, we try our best.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith (www.twitter.com/jayscottsmith) with Sabrina Boyd-Surka (https://twitter.com/SabrinaKayaB) and Brian Seltzer (https://twitter.com/brianseltzer).
Follow @TheRundownPHL (www.twitter.com/TheRundownPHL) on Twitter for every new episode.
Six weeks ago, Philadelphia IBEW 98 electrical workers union leader John Dougherty and City Councilman Bobby Henon headed confidently into their federal corruption trial. Now, the two allies could be looking at maximum sentences of 20 years in prison. KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb (www.twitter.com/PatLoeb) has followed the case from the start, and tells us how prosecutors managed to land guilty verdicts on multiple counts. Plus, in our headlines segment, we talk about the death penalty in Pennsylvania, and the end of a lawsuit involving the Phillie Phanatic and his costume.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith with Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer .
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
We start this Monday's episode with breaking news from the corruption trial of John Dougherty and Bobby Henon. Then, we dive into two bills that just passed the Pennsylvania State Senate that could loosen the state's gun laws, and look at yet another case of gun violence with an update on the investigation into 8-year-old Fanta Bility's death.
To round out our headlines, we touch on the passing of Lower Merion High School principal Sean Hughes, a new option for kids with disabilities at Dilworth Park, and Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni's odd metaphors.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith with Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
Gaming and esports are exploding right now, and they can offer great career opportunities. But access to the high speed internet and expensive equipment games require can be hard to come by. Enter The Block - Nerd Street Gamers' new hub in North Philadelphia. They're offering access and education in the gaming industry, with hopes of making Philadelphia the East Coast center of esports. We talked with Nerd Street's Vice President of Media, Todd Berman, about what The Block can bring to the Philadelphia community.
Plus, in our headlines, Jack Ciattarelli finally concedes to NJ Governor Phil Murphy, Swarthmore College students help create a homicide database for Delco, and could deer be spreading COVID?
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith with Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
Follow @TheRundownPHL on Twitter for every new episode.
On this Veterans Day, we take a look at what it really means to be a veteran, having served and then transitioned back into civilian life. We talk with Alex Archawski, who created the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network. A Philadelphia native and Navy veteran born to a French military family, Alex is now launching a veteran-owned business directory. He tells us what challenges military members face when they finish their service and how his organizations try to help. Plus, we hear about the Flyers Warriors, a group of wounded and disabled veterans who come together to play hockey. And we learn some little-known history about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its Philadelphia connections. In our headlines, we tie up the loose ends of the Ed Durr vs. Steve Sweeney NJ State Senate race.
Hosted by Jay Scott Smith with Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer.
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After a junkyard blaze broke out in Southwest Philadelphia this week, the city stunk. Literally. The fire, however, spoke to a larger issue - Philadelphia's got a lot of trash problems. Terril Haigler wants to be part of the solution. The former city sanitation worker went viral during the pandemic by using social media to pull back the curtain on just how much Philadelphia struggles to take out its trash. Known best as 'Ya Fav Trashman' (his Instagram handle), Haigler speaks with KYW Newsradio's community impact reporter Racquel Williams about the importance of keeping our city clean, and an ambitious project he's launching (https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/ya-fav-trashman-philadelphia-garbage ).
Also, we take a look at what happens when garbage meets art. In the case of the Philadelphia Theatre Company, the result is a new play that opens this weekend.
How in the heck did a truck driver defeat one of the most entrenched and influential lawmakers in New Jersey? Nearly a week after Edward Durr's stunning victory over Steve Sweeney, the political world is still not entirely sure. KYW Newsradio's Mike Dougherty examines the fallout from the shocking state Senate race, from ramifications surrounding Durr's controversial social media posts to what the future could hold for Sweeney.
Plus, in our recap of the stories making news in the Philadelphia area, KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb checks in with the latest developments from the John Dougherty - Bobby Henon federal corruption trial, and we talk about a Comcast internet outage that frustrated a whole lot of people.
Seasonal affective disorder is a serious issue. While some people joke about the "struggle" of turning back the clock and dealing with less sunlight, others find it challenging to cope with the changing of seasons, particularly around Daylight Saving Time. KYW Newsradio's Justin Udo takes a closer look at SAD, its triggers and signs, and treatment strategies.
Plus, in our recap of the day's headlines, we check in on Philadelphia International Airport as it gets ready to welcome international travelers for the first time in 20 months, and examine the local impact of the Biden Administration's infrastructure bill.
Hilco Redevelopment Partners is hoping to make a new economic hub out of the old Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery location. The area will be known as the Bellwether District and is expected to bring in 19,000 jobs. How are they planning to redesign a spot known for being an eyesore, polluting the environment, and literally blowing up a few years ago? KYW's morning anchor Ian Bush fills us in. And in our headlines, we talk about where to get your kids vaccinated against COVID-19, the new Black Doctors Consortium primary care center, Philadelphia's new health commissioner, and the results of a neck-and-neck race for governor in New Jersey.
What's it like covering an election that defies expectations and is too close to call until the next day? KYW Brand Manager Alex Silverman shares his view from the newsroom, deciding what to watch and when to call results. Plus, we talk about the New Jersey governor race and why it's been so close. We also talk with City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb about the results in Philadelphia and the trial of John Dougherty and Bobby Henon, where the judge denied a request to dismiss all charges.
The FDA gives the green light to Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccination for kids ages five to 11. So what happens next? KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert breaks down the approval process for the vaccine, how safe it is, and what measures are being taken at the local level to make sure shots will be available for children as soon as possible.
As we take a look at some other headlines, learn more about a recent gun violence press conference between city leaders and students (
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/philadelphia-students-violence-mayor-district-attorney-police), and a traffic jam that - even by the Schuylkill's standards - was something else (https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/spectacular-truck-fail-slows-schuylkill-traffic-for-hours).
Whether you've been sleeping on this year's election or not, we've got the primer you need! From a perhaps not-so-thinly-veiled publicity stunt masked as a ballot question about pot, to an increasingly spicy contest for the New Jersey governor seat, catch up on all the races in Philadelphia, the suburbs, and New Jersey from our team of KYW Newsradio reporters Mike Dougherty, Pat Loeb, and Jim Melwert. Plus, we forecast what this year's election could tell us about the 2022 mid-terms.
Mike breaks down all the New Jersey races here:
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/2021-new-jersey-election-voter-guide
Check out Pat's analysis of Philadelphia's ballot questions:
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/2021-voter-guide-philadelphia-ballot-questions
Read Jim's story on the Bucks DA race:
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/bucks-county-district-attorney-stancu-weintraub
Halloween falls on a weekend this year, and whether you want to go out in costume or stay home and binge horror flicks, we're here to help you make the most of it. Andre Bennett, the writer behind KYW Newsradio's What to Watch series, gives us his picks for scary movies - from classics like Halloween to more obscure films like Mandy. And KYW photographer and curator of our Things to Do, Holli Stephens, gives us a rundown of what's going on in the Philadelphia region this weekend.
Read Andre's What to Watch for Halloween here: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/entertainment/monsters-and-thieves-what-to-watch-this-halloween-weekend
Read Holli's Things to Do here: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/entertainment/local/to-do-list-philadelphia-halloween-events-oct-28-31-2021
In the United States, the pandemic has only seemed to further divide the country. The story is far different, however, in Israel, where most of the population has embraced strict health and safety protocols. KYW Newsradio's Hadas Kuznits was born in Israel, and recently returned there for a family wedding. On this episode of The Rundown, she documents how the Israeli government implemented tight measures to get a handle on the pandemic. In our headlines segment, we discuss a lawsuit filed by the family of Fanta Bility against the Sharon Hill Borough Police Department, and talk about a new bonus program for substitute teachers in the Philadelphia School District.
The family of the teen who was killed by her ex-boyfriend last summer in Abington has started a foundation, Morgan's Light, to help other girls get out of abusive relationships. KYW Newsradio's Michelle Durham had the opportunity to talk with Kathy McCaffery, Morgan McCaffery's mother. Michelle joins us today to tell us what that conversation was like for her as a mother of a young girl who went to school with Morgan, and how to help someone who might be in a similar situation. In our headlines, we check in on the Bobby Henon and John Dougherty trial, as well as the potential SEPTA strike. We also talk about the New Jersey governor election and the chances of bringing the World Cup to Philadelphia.Listen to the conversation with Michelle Durham and Kathy McCaffery in the KYW Newsradio In Depth podcast: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/podcasts/kyw-newsradio-in-depth-229 Find resources for getting out of toxic relationships at kywnewsradio.com: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/morgan-mccaffery-education-teen-relationships-abuse Morgan's Light: https://www.morgans-light.org/
Between a potential labor strike and safety concerns, Philadelphia's public transportation system has been in the news a lot lately. KYW Newsradio's mass transit reporter Mike DeNardo discusses the state of contract talks between SEPTA and its largest labor union, while suburban bureau chief Jim Melwert checks in with details on a recent series of assaults on the Market - Frankford El line. Plus, KYW Newsradio midday anchor Denise Nakano explains how she managed to pull off an impressive pumpkin carving feat. And, in our headlines segment, we take a look at a new cash payment program designed to keep people who were previously incarcerated out of jail, and we learn about the incriminating "Facebook Papers".
What makes a tweet go viral? A local professor would know. Currently studying on sabbatical at the University of Michigan, Mark Leuchter, who teaches religion at Temple University, thought it would be nice to hold an essay-writing seminar for undergrad students, with free pizza as the kicker. What happened next could only exist in a social media world. Bummed that no one showed up, Mark expressed his disappointment on Twitter by posting a photo of an empty room and four untouched boxes of plain pizza, along with a caption that included the closing sentence, "I'm so sad." The tweet exploded, and has generated nearly 9,000 retweets; over 125,000 likes; and close to 3,000 comments. What does the lack of turnout at Mark's event, and the subsequent response it created on social media, tell us about human behavior? And, is it possible for a viral tweet to have a happy ending? Mark talks about it all on this bonus episode of The Rundown.
A controversial bill over education transparency is making its way through the Pennsylvania legislature. The measure, which passed both the state House and Senate Education Committee, proposes that schools publicly post educational material on their websites, including curriculum, required readings, and syllabi. As the debate over the partisan issue continues, KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert examines the viability of the Republican-backed bill, how it may tie into critical race theory, and whether Governor Wolf will ultimately use his veto power.
Plus, on the heels of Josh Shapiro throwing his hat in the ring, Jim takes an early look at the Pennsylvania 2022 gubernatorial field. And in our recap of the day's headlines, we update you on an unsettling SEPTA assault case and bring you the latest news on mixing COVID-19 vaccination boosters.
Philadelphia City Council has passed a bill that will stop police from pulling people over for some minor violations. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas hopes this will address the phenomenon of “driving while Black." We get into what exactly this bill would change, the road it took to get here, and how much of an impact it could make. Plus, we get an update on week 3 of the trial of Bobby Henon and John Dougherty. In our headlines, we check in on Philadelphia's new plastic bag ban and the city's search for a new school superintendent, we pay our respects to Colin Powell, we discuss Lane Johnson's openness about mental health issues, and we remind you to vote - today is the last day to register for Pennsylvania's November election.
In Philadelphia, few people have done more to champion and advance the LGBTQ+ cause than Gloria Casarez.
Casarez, who came from Latin American descent, passed away from breast cancer nearly seven years ago, making it all the more fitting that the city recently honored her with a historical marker.
On this bonus episode of The Rundown, KYW Newsradio's Shara Dae Howard looks back on the life and legacy of Gloria Casarez.
Special production thanks:
GALAEI (https://www.galaeiqtbipoc.org/), for archival audio
NBC10, for archival audio and video
Wine snobs, don't snub the Garden State. South Jersey is apparently a prime location to make wine. On this Wine Wednesday, we try a taste with KYW Newsradio reporter Mike Dougherty and a few other friends from the newsroom, and hear the stories behind Autumn Lake Winery in Williamstown and William Heritage Winery in Mullica Hill.
And in today's headlines: Lucy the Elephant is getting major renovations, SEPTA asks for bus riders' opinions on redesigning the system, Delaware County takes its county jail out of private hands, and William Shatner goes to space!
Theater and live music are back in Philly, with COVID safety precautions. KYW reporter John McDevitt gives us a peek at the first two events that happened on the Avenue of the Arts: Minor Character at the Wilma Theater and the Philadelphia Orchestra's return to the Kimmel Center featuring Yo-Yo Ma. We also bring in our Digital Managing Editor, Kristina "Luca" Koppeser, to chat about our own experiences going back to live events in a pandemic - both as audience members and on stage. And in today's headlines: Pennsylvania Attorney General Shapiro plans to run for governor, Philadelphia officials rally to get out the vote for an off-year election, the Wells Fargo Center tries to eliminate "knucklehead" behavior, and a community group in Burlington County, NJ opens up "brave conversations" about race.
John Dougherty is well known in Philadelphia as a face of organized labor. But now the electricians union leader and one of his longtime allies, City Councilman Bobby Henon, are fighting federal corruption charges. As the high-profile trial heads into its second week, KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb provides a preview on what could lie ahead for "Johnny Doc" and Henon.
Domestic violence increased in a year of pandemic lockdown, when it's been hard for victims to get out of the house. So Purple House Project started taking a new approach, meeting victims in places they can go without suspicion and where they can talk casually. As part of this effort, they built a garden where women can nurture both plants and themselves. We talked with KYW Newsradio's Justin Udo about this project and other important things to know if you or a loved one are dealing with domestic abuse.
If you need help, you can reach out to Purple House Project at www.purplehouseprojectpa.org.
It’s October, which means we’re ready for all things spooky. Eastern State Penitentiary is known for hosting one of the scariest events in the area, but they’re offering some tamer options this year. Why the change? And how does this play into how the penitentiary has evolved over the years? KYW Newsradio reporter John McDevitt talks about that today on The Rundown.
On the heels of the United States passing 700,000 coronavirus deaths over the weekend comes a promising development: the New Jersey-based pharmaceutical company Merck says it has developed a pill capable of cutting COVID-19 deaths in half, while also shortening inpatient hospital stays. KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert explains why the drug could be a "game-changer," and what it needs for approval.
Amidst the at-times tumultuous backdrop of the Philadelphia School District returning to in-person learning, Dr. William Hite announced he will step down from his post after the current academic year. KYW Newsradio education reporter Mike DeNardo joins guest co-hosts Sabrina Boyd-Surka and Brian Seltzer to discuss the outgoing superintendent's decision, the complex legacy he'll leave behind, and how the city might go about replacing him.
Project HOME has been a driving force behind reducing homelessness in Philadelphia. The organization’s latest construction, Peg’s Place, is located in North Philadelphia, and provides supportive housing for residents who were once unsheltered, specifically due to addiction. KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb attended the ribbon cutting, and explains how Peg’s Place can help Philadelphia further eliminate homelessness.
When no cafeteria workers showed up to S. Weir Mitchell Elementary School one day, principal Stephanie Andrewlevich took it upon herself to order pizza to make sure her students would get a meal. It was a heroic gesture, but it points to bigger problems facing the entire Philadelphia School District. Today on The Rundown, KYW education reporter Mike DeNardo joins us to examine the worker shortage and what the school year has been like after a month back in person.
Animals are officially getting vaccinated at America's oldest zoo, and it turns out they're pretty willing to take the needle too. KYW Newsradio's John McDevitt made a trip over to the Philadelphia Zoo to find out which species are up for vaccination first, and whether the shots seem to be effective. He shares his finding's on the September 22nd edition of The Rundown.
KYW Newsradio Brand Manager Alex Silverman set out on a dream vacation to Alaska -- and then he got COVID-19, two days in... and fully vaccinated. We'll hear what Alex learned about breakthrough cases while isolating in a hotel in Fairbanks, and Dr. Abby Rudolph, Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Temple, helps us find valuable lessons about vaccines and immunity from Alex's story.
The Philadelphia School District might be looking to the National Guard and Amazon for help getting kids to school, since they're short on bus drivers. How would that work? And why are we having so much trouble getting kids to their schools in the first place? KYW Newsradio's education reporter Mike DeNardo breaks down the problems and some potential solutions.
Philadelphia police officers will be getting more money, but that raise will come hand-in-hand with increased accountability. Now that the tug of war between the city and police union is over, KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb talks with Jay Scott Smith about what each side got and gave up in arbitration, and what policing - and police reform - could look like over the length of the new contract.
President Biden approved Governor Wolf's request to declare a disaster area in Pennsylvania. That means federal help is finally on the way for parts of the Philadelphia region that were annihilated by Ida. On this September 14th edition of The Rundown, KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert discusses who's eligible for FEMA aid, and also shares some shocking takeaways from his tour of the Aqua Pennsylvania water treatment plant that was shut down for days by the storm.
As the Julia R. Masterman middle and secondary school faces teacher protests over building safety, plus accusations of racial discrimination, they're bringing in Dr. Jeannine Payne, the school's first Black principal. That role will be a heavy burden to bear, but it could bring a sense of belonging to Black students. KYW Newsradio's Mike DeNardo talked with Dr. Payne, and today on The Rundown, he'll tell us how she's approaching the role and what it could mean for the school and its community.
Come for the info, stay for the mass transit takes! The Broad Street and Market-Frankford Lines are mainstays in Philadelphia. But, on this September 8th edition of The Rundown, Jay Scott Smith, Mike DeNardo, Sabrina Boyd-Surka, and Brian Seltzer hold a KYW Newsradio group chat about proposed changes to SEPTA's map, covering everything from the "Metro" to the "B" line.
In parts of the Philadelphia suburbs, Ida delivered a massive hit. On the September 7th edition of The Rundown, KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert reports on the significant damage left behind by Ida in places like Upper Dublin Township, the latest updates from Aqua America, a water company serving parts of the suburbs which is still sending out pleas to conserve water, and stories of how communities are coming together to help each other heal and repair.
Tropical Depression Ida is on its way through our region, while many areas are still recovering from storms and tornadoes earlier this summer. Today, we talk with NBC10 meteorologist Steven Sosna and KYW Newsradio reporter Tim Jimenez about why the weather has been so severe lately and how to make sure you're prepared.
Governor Wolf announced a mask mandate today for all K-12 schools in Pennsylvania - the same day Philadelphia started the school year, and a day after many other districts started. Why now, and how will it play out with school districts who have been agonizing over this decision all summer?
Governor Wolf's opioid disaster declaration ended last week, and the PA state legislature chose not to extend it. Today on The Rundown, we discuss what's happened with the opioid crisis over the past three years, and what the end of the declaration means going forward.
The Philadelphia School Board voted unanimously to require all staff to get vaccinated against COVID-19 -- but without a clear plan, staff and parents still have concerns. Today on The Rundown, we talk about what needs to happen next, plus how our mindset around helping students through a crisis has changed.
Pfizer is the first COVID-19 vaccine to get full FDA approval, and we saw cities, government agencies, and private businesses alike respond very quickly with vaccine mandates. What does full approval for a COVID-19 vaccine change in the Philadelphia area? Is it going to move the needle at all for people who have waited to get the shot? How does it play into going back to school?
A year after the city of Philadelphia moved to take down the Christopher Columbus statue in Marconi Plaza, a judge has stepped in and said no. The statue has remained at its current site since 1876, but it is currently encased inside a wooden box. Today on the Rundown, we're breaking down the judge's ruling, the conflict over the past year, and what's going to happen to the Christopher Columbus statue next.
Haitians living in Philadelphia are feeling the pain of their loved ones after an earthquake killed more than 1,400 people on the island. But they're standing strong and finding ways to help. Today on The Rundown, we’ll talk about how they're making sure aid gets where it needs to go in Haiti.
Find out more about Dr. Louis's foundation: https://drjohannelouisfoundation.org/
Vaccine mandates are everywhere right now, but they’re not in Philly schools yet. So what do those negotiations look like, and when could something like mandating vaccinations for teachers and other staff happen?
There's a new masking and vaccine policy in the city of Philadelphia. The City will make masks mandatory for customers and workers of all businesses and institutions, except those that require COVID-19 vaccination for entry. Today on the Rundown we're breaking down the rules and how they will affect you.
Look at the list of restaurants requiring vaccinations here: https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/philly-restaurants-requiring-vaccination-cards
Kids will be going back to school soon. And with the delta variant’s surge, parents and teachers have a lot of questions about how to keep them safe. Today on the Rundown, what we know about how the delta variant affects kids, and what’s in store for us in the fall.
There’s a conversation happening in board rooms, council meetings, and school administration offices across the country right now. Is it time to mandate vaccinations? A lot of doctors and employers alike are saying yes. We’ll talk about why, and what happens next, today on the Rundown.
Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka were already household names before the Olympics. Now, they’re also finding themselves in the front row of a national dialogue about athletes, mental health, and the price of winning at all costs. So how has the conversation changed, and what does it mean?
The empty highways of April 2020 are long gone, but mass transit is still struggling to get people back on trains. So what can PATCO and SEPTA do to lure riders back? And what does the future of mass transit look like, after the pandemic?
We also pay tribute to Ed Kasuba, the longtime KYW South Jersey Bureau Chief who spent 33 years serving the people of South Jersey. Kasuba passed away recently at 74.
New information on what the Delta variant can do and rising COVID-19 cases has led to new guidance from the CDC about when and where you should put a mask back on. So what does it mean in the Philadelphia area?
A Philadelphia man allegedly committed a sick and bizarre series of hit-and-runs early on the morning of Wednesday, July 28th. It became a rampage that went from Philadelphia all the way out to Collegeville in Montgomery County, leaving one person dead and several injured. Today on the Rundown we're breaking down what happened and what's next for the victims of four hit and runs and the man arrested for this string of brutal attacks. (Photo: Montgomery County District Attorney's office.)
There’s a new park in Camden New Jersey, named in honor of a little boy who died a hero. Today on the Rundown, how Dominick Andujar's memory lives on nearly a decade after he died trying to protect his sister from an attacker.
Coronavirus cases are headed in the wrong direction again. Philadelphia is strongly recommending that everyone wear masks in public indoor spaces again, whether you’re vaccinated or not. So where is this trend line going, and what’s next?
The Philadelphia Zoo is planning on using an experimental vaccine to protect its at-risk animals like big cats and primates from COVID-19. So how do you get a 400 pound gorilla to roll up its sleeve?
A new schedule of start times for Philadelphia schools is being met with frustration and confusion among parents. So what are the biggest complaints and why did the school district switch things up? We also talk about the search for a new school board member after the resignation of Angela McIver, and the future of the superintendent's office with William Hite's contract up in just over a year.
Philadelphia has a big trash problem right now. In parts of the city there is garbage stacked up on the sidewalks, it smells terrible and people are frustrated. So what’s going on? Why is there a backlog, and how does Philly fix the trash collection issues for good?
Former U.S. Attorney William McSwain is running for Pennsylvania governor, and he wants former President Donald Trump to help him get to Harrisburg. Pennsylvania's governor race is developing with more than a year to go until election day, so we're breaking what the field looks like and how Republicans could turn a pretty reliably purple Pennsylvania red again.
Wednesday morning, Bill Cosby was in prison at SCI Phoenix, serving a three to ten year sentence for sexual assault. By the afternoon, he was free. So how did Bill Cosby get out of prison? And what happens next?
Workers at Philadelphia International Airport are getting a pay raise after City Council bumped up their minimum wage. But not everyone is as happy as the workers and the influential Service Employees International Union that represents them. Today on the Rundown we're talking about what goes into $20 an hour at the airport, how the bill got passed, and why the Chamber of Commerce has concerns.
Washington Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer almost took his pants off Tuesday night at Citizens Bank Park. In Texas, Oakland Athletics pitcher Sergio Romo actually did take his pants off. So what in the world is going on in baseball and why are the Phillies clothing optional now?
This school year was like nothing we’ve been through before. And now it’s over. So what did we learn? And what are the biggest changes schools and teachers and students will take into the classroom with them next year?
Back in the May primary, Pennsylvania voters approved an amendment that let the state house and senate limit the Governor’s emergency powers. And now to-go cocktails are gone. At least, temporarily. So how did we get from there to here? Today on the Rundown, the saga of the takeout margarita and other ways the coronavirus pandemic influenced dining culture.
A lot of people went out and did things this past weekend in Philadelphia. There were parties and concerts, bars were open past 11pm in the city for the first time in what seems like forever. The Flower Show has been packed. There are lots of Pride parties in the city. And everything felt so incredibly normal -- and definitely weird at the same time. So what does 'back to normal' look like?
There's a battleground forming in Pennsylvania over what voting should look like. Republicans in Harrisburg want to change Pennsylvania’s voting laws to require Voter ID at the polls. Democrats say it will just make legitimate voting harder. So what else is in the nearly 150-page bill, and how would it affect you and your right to vote?
The City of Philadelphia is staring down a revenue conundrum, because of a perfect storm of the pandemic and the city’s reliance on the wage tax. So how bad could the cash flow problem get, and what, if anything, is being done to fix it?
For about an hour on Tuesday morning, you couldn't read the news online, go shopping or stream a show, because websites for Amazon, the New York Times, HBO Max, Hulu and more were all down. So what happened, and why is it so easy to break the internet? Ian Bush, morning anchor on KYW Newsradio, and Dr. Robert D'Ovidio, cybersecurity expert at Drexel University talk with Jay Scott Smith about the Fastly outage and what it means for the security of the internet's infrastructure.
Angel Fox is a nurse. She’s also an organ donor, and her husband is an organ transplant recipient. For Angel and her husband, and for so many other people who need to take medicine to keep their immune systems from attacking their own bodies, there are still a lot of unknowns. On top of that list -- how much will the vaccine protect them? And when can they get back to pre-pandemic life?
More coronavirus restrictions are off the books in Pennsylvania, including indoor and outdoor crowd size and capacity limits. So what’s this going to mean for businesses, and are people ready?
We’re coming up on Memorial Day weekend at the Jersey Shore, and this time without coronavirus restrictions. So how are people feeling about 2021? And what does the worker shortage mean for beach season?
Lawmakers in Harrisburg are advancing a handful of controversial bills. One of them would prevent governments from requiring proof that you're vaccinated, which notably includes schools. A trio of other bills would restrict abortion access in the Keystone State. Today on the Rundown we're talking about what that means for you and me and what happens next.
Will your company require workers to get vaccinated? If they do, they’re taking a page from one of the largest employers in the area. The University of Pennsylvania Health System says it's requiring its more than 40,000-plus employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by September 1st. So is this the start of a trend of requiring vaccinations at work
The help wanted signs are everywhere, employers are trying everything from signing bonuses to new benefits programs. So why is there still a worker shortage, and what does it mean?
May 18th is primary election day in Pennsylvania, and there are a few ballot questions that are going to impact the state's constitution when voters have their say. So what do they mean and what happens next?
If you're fully vaccinated, the CDC says you don't have to wear masks or social distance anymore. It's great news if you've got your shots and it's probably the biggest return to 'normal' we've seen yet. But until the states and individual businesses get on the same page as federal health authorities, some employees are feeling left in the lurch.
In the midst of a gun violence crisis, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and his challenger Carlos Vega met last night to debate who should lead the office forward.
Today, the two KYW reporters who asked the candidates questions at the Democratic D.A. debate break down what happened, and why it matters.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are taking big steps to loosen some of the COVID mitigation efforts. So what’s happening, when is it happening, and do other states need to start getting rid of COVID restrictions more aggressively too?
If you’re vaccinated, the CDC says you can take the mask off outside. So what’s the goal, what message does that send, and does the new guidance go far enough?
Right now Philadelphia school teachers are doing double duty, teaching students in the classroom and students at home on a webcam at the same time. It’s incredibly difficult, and Philly’s school superintendent wants to change that.
After saying 'better safe than sorry' a couple weeks ago, the CDC says the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is indeed safe. And now there's a different problem -- the most accessible and transportable vaccine we have has some serious image problems.
On Tuesday April 20th, former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter in the death of George Floyd nearly one year before. It was one of the highest profile trials in recent memory, and Philadelphia was paying attention.
People in Kensington are banding together to reclaim a park. What’s next for the embattled neighborhood, and what gives people hope in a place that needs an extra helping of it?
After a year of missed milestones, many high school seniors in Philadelphia are going to their own in-person graduations. Other students finally have a prom to look forward to. So what’s the end of this school year going to look like, and what does it mean, to the students, to get these things back?
Longtime residents in the South Philly neighborhood of Point Breeze are upset and frustrated. They say they’re being pushed out, and a new luxury apartment building under construction is just adding insult to injury. So what's actually going on?
The United States is hitting the pause button on giving out the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, while the CDC and FDA investigate unusual blood clots in six patients. So what do we know, and how is the Philly area adjusting?
Anyone who wants a vaccine in Pennsylvania can sign up to get one, starting on Tuesday, April 13. So what happened, and what does this mean for the fight against this pandemic?
Restaurants have taken it on the chin the last year. Philadelphia business owners want to know how long the current lineup of restrictions are going to last -- and what eating in the city is going to look like after the pandemic is over.
Millions of people across the country are behind on rent, many are still dealing with underemployment or unemployment. There's help on the way with a lot of different programs inside the American Rescue Plan, but it's going to take a lot for the situation on the ground to get better.
A well known face from the Philly suburbs announces her run for the US Senate, joining what's turning out to be a pretty stacked lineup for the Democrats. And in Philadelphia, what would normally be a pretty straightforward primary for District Attorney is getting a little interesting, as incumbent D.A. Larry Krasner gets the cold shoulder from elements of his own party.
Pennsylvania says all adults will be eligible for a vaccine by April 19th, with different groups of people becoming newly eligible each week until then. Today on the Rundown we're breaking down what changed yesterday and what it means for you.
Public transportation has been rocked by this pandemic. And here in the Philadelphia area, SEPTA says the riders aren’t coming back for years. So what does the future look like for mass transit in Philly?
The CDC is sounding the alarm as coronavirus cases rise yet again, but Americans are losing patience with coronavirus restrictions. How much longer can we 'hold out just a little bit longer'?
More people are getting vaccinated, and coronavirus restrictions in the Keystone State are easing again in the next week. But it seems like just about everyone is frustrated with how the commonwealth of Pennsylvania has handled the vaccine rollout.
Kids are getting back into classrooms in Philadelphia, but the city still hasn’t provided a public list of positive COVID-19 cases in the schools. So parents and teachers are trying to do it themselves.
Read more about it here: https://bit.ly/31hEVHm
On March 18th, a 20 year old man was shot and killed on the grounds of Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility, just minutes after he was released from prison. The union representing corrections officers says one officer has received death threats and many of the prison staff now fear for their lives. So what happened, and what does it mean for the people who work at Curran-Fromhold and those who are incarcerated inside?
Renters and homeowners have gotten a lot of extra assistance over the past year, things ranging from help paying heating bills to protection from having the water shut off. But some of those protections are going away at the end of the month.
Read about Pennsylvania's utility shutoff deadline here: https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/utility-shutoffs-to-resume-in-pennsylvania-on-april-1
The federal government wants everyone in the United States to be eligible for a vaccine by May 1st. But is that actually going to happen? And are you going to need a vaccine passport for life after the pandemic is over?
Last night in Philadelphia, hundreds of people attended a vigil in Chinatown following the spa shootings in Atlanta. And around the country and across social media, people are calling for an end to anti-Asian hate in America after an increase in violent acts and harassment over the past year. For a lot of people, this is a really tough thing to talk about. For others, the conversation has been way too long in the making.
The last 12 months have taken a massive toll on our physical and mental health. That's not us saying it, that's the findings from a new survey out of the American Psychological Association, and the details are kind of incredible. Today we're talking about what the poll revealed and yeah it gets a little real. Check out the survey here: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2021/03/one-year-pandemic-stress
It’s been one year since the coronavirus outbreak became a global pandemic. Across the country more vaccines are going out, businesses are starting to reopen indoors, and now nearly $2 trillion dollars in stimulus is getting added to the mix. So what is reopening a country going to look like, and what did it cost to get here? KYW Newsradio reporter Hadas Kuznits and Cherri Gregg, community affairs reporter for KYW join the podcast to talk about where we stand one year into this pandemic and what the next few weeks look like for the Philadelphia region.
People who live in the Philadelphia suburbs often go to hospitals in the city to get treated for serious diseases, like cancer. These patients are among the most vulnerable and highest risk -- but they’re not allowed to get the vaccine at the city hospital where they get their cancer treatment. KYW Newsradio's City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb and Suburban Bureau Chief Jim Melwert join the podcast today to talk about vaccines, jurisdictions, and what the next few months look like emerging from this pandemic.
For a kid, just being grounded for a weekend can feel like forever. And we’re coming up on a year since the pandemic disrupted just about everything. That’s a year without a regular school week, without hangouts and sleepovers, clubs and activities. So, how are the kids doing? Suzanne Monaghan is a reporter at KYW Newsradio, Matt Leon hosts the KYW Newsradio In Depth and 1-on-1 podcasts at KYW. They joins the podcast to talk about how the pandemic has hit kids differently than adults.
The Supreme Court is looking at a voting rights case that's making Democrats nervous. What's at stake, and what does it mean for your right to vote here in the Philly area? Cherri Gregg is the community affairs reporter for KYW Newsradio, Jim Melwert is KYW's suburban bureau chief at KYW -- today they join the podcast to talk about how state legislatures have turned their attention to voting rights since the 2020 election and what it means for the average voter in the Philadelphia region.
Did someone you know jump the line to get a vaccine? Ever look at someone who just got vaccinated and wonder... am I really behind them in line? Turns out a lot of people are feeling vaccine envy. So what's causing it? Should you feel bad about feeling some kind of way over not having a vaccine yet? And is line jumping really a big concern - or just something you see people talk about a lot? Pat Loeb is KYW Newsradio's City Hall bureau chief and Hadas Kuznits is a reporter at KYW -- they join the podcast today to talk about vaccine envy and line jumpers.
After weeks of back and forth between the school district and the teachers union, young students in Philadelphia are beginning to head back to school on Monday. So what changed, and what’s next? Mike DeNardo covers the Philadelphia School District for KYW Newsradio, and Jim Melwert is KYW Newsradio's Suburban Bureau Chief -- they're both on the podcast today to break down how the agreement happened to get kids in Philadelphia back in school and the sometimes heated discussions between parents, teachers, and administrators across the region about how to educate kids a year into this pandemic.
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine only needs one dose. It doesn't need a super freezer. And it's on the UPS trucks right now, heading out to the states. So what does the 3rd vaccine mean for YOU? Dr. Brian McDonough is a practicing physician and the medical editor at KYW Newsradio, he joins the podcast to talk about the new vaccine, how it's different from Moderna or Pfizer's, and what it means for our fight against COVID-19.
A huge coronavirus relief bill is making its way through Congress right now, and if it passes, the Philadelphia area is going to get some much needed relief. Today on The Rundown from KYW Newsradio we're breaking down what's in the bill and where the money's going with KYW Newsradio City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb and KYW Newsradio In Depth host Matt Leon.
Read Pat Loeb's reporting on the bill here: https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/house-expected-to-pass-historic-covid-19-relief-for-pa-nj
Every February for Black History Month KYW Newsradio puts together a month long celebration called GameChangers, honoring ten inspiring individuals who have made a positive impact on Philadelphia. At the end of the month the final ten people are honored with an awards ceremony. This year's ceremony was last night -- Wednesday, February 25th. Cherri Gregg, KYW's community affairs reporter and host of the Flashpoint podcast, and Arian Fulcher, Flashpoint and GameChangers producer and news production assistant at KYW Newsradio are joining the podcast to highlight the extraordinary people who have spent the last 12 months making a difference in the lives of others. Find out more about GameChangers here: https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/gamechangers
And check out the Flashpoint podcast: https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/podcasts/flashpoint-with-cherri-gregg-849
If you want to vote by mail in Pennsylvania this year, you have to reapply. Didn't we do this already? And what's the state of vaccinations in the Commonwealth, a week after PA said a hundred thousand second doses of Moderna vaccine were used as first shots? Every day on The Rundown from KYW Newsradio we're taking a couple of local news stories and breaking down why they matter to people who live and work in the Philadelphia area.
Read more about what you need to do if you want to vote by mail in Pennsylvania again this year:
https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/want-to-vote-by-mail-again-all-pennsylvanians-must-reapply
And check out Jim Melwert's reporting on the two dose kerfuffle here:
https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/vaccine-providers-struggle-as-pa-sorts-out-moderna-shortage
The Garden State has a few new laws this week, three months after voters said they wanted marijuana legalized. And Philadelphia wants to connect the entire city with a unified transportation system. Every day on The Rundown from KYW Newsradio, we're taking a couple local news stories and breaking down why they matter to people who live and work in the Philadelphia area. Read more about Mike DeNardo's reporting on New Jersey's new marijuana laws here:
https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/murphy-signs-laws-to-set-up-marijuana-market-in-nj
And check out Pat Loeb's story about Philadelphia's transportation plan:
https://www.radio.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/city-unveils-new-plan-to-connect-philly-through-mass-transit