Several art statues representing what appears to be the 1950’s lifestyle have been spotted on Market Street near 48th. The statues were placed on an empty lot near construction business T Depaul & Sons, but it doesn’t appear that they belong to it. Check out the photos sent to us by reader Shepard Ritzen:  Continue Reading

Multiple injuries have been reported after a packed SEPTA Route 13 trolley was struck by a paratransit vehicle late Tuesday morning. The incident happened near the intersection of 41st Street and Chester Avenue at around 11:30 a.m., according to reports, after a collision between a CCT Connect paratransit bus and another car.

At least 31 people were injured in the incident, according to a report by NBC10 Philadelphia. The drivers of the vehicles involved in the collision were taken to the hospital, and their condition is currently unknown. None of the injuries sustained by the trolley passengers are considered life-threatening, according to reports.  Continue Reading

Free tax preparation sites have opened around the city helping individuals and families earning less than $55,000 per year to file their 2018 taxes. The sites are run by the Campaign for Working Families. This year, there are a couple of new tax preparation sites in West Philadelphia. Most sites serve customers on a first come, first served basis, but some require an appointment.

The following tax preparation sites are open in West and Southwest Philadelphia:  Continue Reading

This post was submitted by Project MEOW, the West Philly-based volunteer-run cat rescue organization.

Cats are often generalized as mysterious or capricious animals. While humans have lived with cats for thousands of years, sometimes the communication methods or body language of cats can seem strange. Knowing what a cat is saying with its tail, eyes, and ears is instrumental to any interaction you have with them, whether its coaxing a stray out of hiding, handling a scared or distressed cat, or simply hanging out with your pet at home. Like any other relationship, communication is key to bonding and building trust.

When dealing with an unfamiliar or anxious cat, knowing its warning signs is crucial to help meet the needs of the cat, and make sure no one gets hurt in the exchange. A scared or anxious cat will often flatten its ears back and its tail may either thump up and down or stand straight up, Halloween style. When a cat is sending these signals, along with hissing or growling, stay away! Prolonged direct eye contact also means that cat is sizing you up. While eye contact may be a sign of intimacy and connection for humans, its probably best not to stare directly at an unhappy cat. The best way to calm down an aggressive cat is to simply leave it alone. Turn the lights off and provide a safe space for the cat to relax and feel safe before you try to interact again. If you are trying to build a bond with an unfamiliar cat, this may take some patience!  Continue Reading

Philadelphia public libraries will hold an array of special events throughout February in honor of Black History Month. This Saturday, Feb. 2., Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library (52nd and Sansom), in collaboration with the African American Museum, is hosting a Cultural Institution Resource and Information Fair.

The public is invited to learn more about local African-American historical and cultural institutions and get informed about their programs, activities and volunteer opportunities. Representatives from the following organizations will be on hand to provide information and answer questions:  Continue Reading