The Philadelphia Caller
Philadelphia News, Spots and More 
PHIADELPHIA, PA - 2023 marked a turning point in the ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States, as the country saw its first decrease in drug overdose deaths since 2018. Preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an estimated 107,543 overdose deaths, a 3% decrease from the previous year.
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Public Health today announced 1,158 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Philadelphia. That brings the number of confirmed cases to 52,043. In addition, the Department of Public Health also announced 52 new probable cases from rapid antigen tests.
NEW YORK – In a satisfying conclusion to a bold scheme, former Guilderland Town Justice Richard J. Sherwood and financial advisor Thomas K. Lagan have been forced to return nearly $6.3 million. The pair were convicted in 2019 after a scandalous plot to steal vast sums of money intended for charities across the Capital Region.
PHILADELPHIA - Northern Liberties is dedicating its massive December 13th and 14th weekend to both unique neighborhood traditions and celebrating its thriving local business community, featuring a highly anticipated return of the Parade of Spirits and multiple anniversary events.
One of the city's most unique winter gatherings, the Parade of Spirits, makes its grand return on Saturday, December 13.
The Event: The Parade of Spirits is an inclusive celebration of light and dark, where costumed participants—including Krampus, faeries, and ghosts—convene upon Northern Liberties. Elaborate costumes and colorful lanterns define the march.
Time & Location: The event gathers at Liberty Lands (913 N. 3rd Street) at 3:30 PM and the parade kicks off at sunset.
New Route: This year features an expanded footprint through the neighborhood, starting at Liberty Lands and winding through Wildey, American, Germantown, 2nd, and Fairmount Streets before returning to 3rd Street.
The Northern Liberties Neighbors Association (NLNA) is hosting a Gift Wrapping Fundraiser across both days from Noon to 4:00 PM. This helpful community service is located at the NLNA Community Center (700 N. 3rd Street) on Saturday, and directly at the Northern Liberties Holiday Pop-up Market (914 N. 2nd Street) on Sunday.
The weekend also features two distinct specialty markets:
Northern Liberties Farmers' Market Holiday Market: Located in the Courtyard of Piazza Alta (1099 Germantown) on Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring kid-friendly activities and spiked hot chocolate.
STUMP Holiday Market: STUMP (956 N. 2nd Street) hosts its own festive afternoon on Saturday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring local makers, bakers, plants, planters, and complimentary hot cocoa.
Two local businesses are marking major milestones during the weekend:
Tula Yoga + Wellness: Tula Yoga (737 N. 4th) celebrates its 6th Anniversary on Saturday, December 13, with $6 classes all day, exclusive sales, and a community happy hour starting after 2:45 PM.
Future Days Brewing: Future Days Brewing (433 Fairmont) celebrates its 1st Anniversary across both days. The celebration on Saturday features barbeque, the debut of a new smoked helles beer, and live music. On Sunday, the brewery will host an Eagles game viewing party with celebratory $1 Future Days Kölsch stanges after each touchdown.
HARRISBURG PA. - Governor Tom Wolf announced today that he tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday and is in isolation at home.
PHILADELPHIA — For years, Philadelphia's vibrant and diverse food scene simmered with understated brilliance, a beloved secret among locals and in-the-know gourmands. But in a landmark moment for the city, the culinary world officially recognized what many have long known: Philadelphia is a powerhouse of gastronomic innovation and excellence. The introduction of the Michelin Guide to Philadelphia and the subsequent awarding of its coveted Stars has cemented the city's place on the global fine-dining map.
