The Why: Philly Explained

Why is the Philadelphia Parking Authority ticketing cars for blocking street sweepers — on streets the city doesn’t actually sweep 75 percent of the time?

Philadelphia's Defender Association says cops pull over more African-American drivers in the 14th Police District than white ones. Is racial profiling to blame?

In 2018, Wawa opened a 12,000-square-foot store on 6th and Chestnut streets in Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood, complete with a lounge area and a dedicated bakery – it’s largest ever. On this episode of The Why, we look at why — after years of opening stores in the suburbs — the convenience store chain is renewing its focus on the city. And are the city’s hoagie-eaters as enthusiastic about Wawa as Wawa is about them?

For survivors of gun violence, long-term help in overcoming new physical and financial challenges is not always easy to find after leaving the hospital.

Backup quarterback Nick Foles, replacing the injured Carson Wentz, once again has led the Eagles’ playoff run. Teammates say when Foles steps on the field, something divine happens, almost like a confident peace. But can that peace get the defending Super Bowl champs past the New Orleans Saints on Sunday? On this episode of The Why, Philly.com sports columnist Marcus Hayes tells us why we shouldn’t bet against St. Nick.

Should schools be rated and reviewed like restaurants, movies, and Uber rides? Or are the stakes higher? Why Pennsylvania is trying a new tool.

Why Cory Booker's rhetoric has changed as he tries to court the most progressive wing of the Democratic Party and position himself for a 2020 presidential bid.

A white referee recently forced a black South Jersey high school wrestler to choose between cutting his dreadlocks or forfeiting a match. Why did this unfold this way?

Why the Painted Bride, a staple in Philadelphia's art community for nearly 50 years, is selling its iconic building in Old City to pursue a more nomadic vision.

Amid all of the distressing and difficult headlines we encounter every day, let's meet some of the regular people working to make a positive change in their communities.