🌱Temple Prez Resigns + Philly Hits 100 Homicides + Drink Bottled H20!

Welcome back, Philadelphia. I'm here in your inbox today to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on around town. Today's issue includes updates on...

• Temple University President Jason Wingard resigns after taking the job in 2021.
• The city of Philadelphia hit an unfortunate landmark as it reached 100 homicides, most caused by gun violence.
• Whiskey and beer are still safe to drink as Philly's drinking water quality is tested on a daily basis for safe consumption.

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But first, today's weather:

Clouds limiting sun. High: 59 Low: 34.

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Here are the top three stories in Philadelphia today:

1. There were such high expectations and hopes for Temple University President Jason Wingard, the first African American to lead the college. But amid striking staff, votes of no confidence and a horrific violent crime wave that perpetuates the North Broad Street campus, he offered his resignation this week. The 51-year-old has led the university since July of 2021 and just recently moved into a townhouse just off the North Philly campus. (WPVI-TV)
2. Make that 101 homicides. The city of Philadelphia has seen its homicide count go into triple digits as it registers as the third highest homicide rate so far since 2007. Both 2021 and 2022 saw homicides go over the 500 mark as gun violence is the front and center issue of this year's mayor's race. (Axios Philadelphia)
3. Again the big question in Philadelphia — is it safe to drink the water? It's now Day Three since a water contamination spill up north in Bristol, PA caused a fumbling emergency alert to thousands of Philadelphians about drinking water safety. The see-sawing messages of safe/unsafe drinking water caused an avalanche of citizens to rush out and buy cases and cases of bottled water. The last alert the city of Philadelphia sent out via text message was that the drinking water quality is safe up until 11:59 p.m. Wednesday evening. Stay tuned and stay hydrated! (msn.com.)

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Today in Philadelphia:

• Here's a good dog story. A dog hurt and abandonded on train tracks finds a forever home. (NBC 10 Philadelphia)
• And a sad dog story, but the PSPCA is raising money to help this doggy! A dog was left in the streets to die after getting shot in a Philadelphia neighborhood, PSPCA says. (FOX 29 Philadelphia)
• Our water is a bit iffy but our WATER ICE is just fine! Do yourself a favor and put the bottle of Poland Springs or Aquafina down and go to a water ice stand and order a large cherry. My favorite is Hecker's in Port Richmond, 2600 block of Venango Street. Two flavors, cherry or pineapple. Tell Gus to make you a Radio Ball. You'll thank me all summer. Here's a list of other water ice joints. (visitphilly.com)

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Alrighty, you're all good for today. See you all tomorrow for another update!

— Patty-Pat Kozlowski

About me: Patty-Pat Kozlowski has been writing community news and Philly-cenric Op/Eds for over 20 years. A Jill of all trades she's been a stand-up comedian, chef, DJ, newspaper editor, food trucker and Parks Director for Philadelphia Parks & Rec as well as a community relations/legislative aide for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Philadelphia City Council.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Philadelphia Patch newsletter? Contact me at philadelphia@patch.com