🌱 WPVI-TV Mourns Longtime Host + 1,000 New Affordable Houses

Good morning, Philadelphia! Your usual curator is off today, but I am here to fill in and keep you up-to-date on all of your local happenings. Now, here’s what you need to know, in 5 minutes or less. — Miranda Fraraccio

First, today's weather:

Mostly cloudy. High: 70 Low: 51.

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Here are the top 3 stories today in Philadelphia:

1. Longtime host and producer of WPVI-TV's "Puerto Rican Panorama" public affairs program died this week at the age of 88. Diego Castellanos began his broadcast career in 1954 before joining channel 6 in 1970, where he'd been behind and in front of the camera ever since. According to his family, funeral services are being arranged. (wpgtalkradio.com)
2. The city of Philadelphia is set to build 1,000 affordable houses in the area as part of an initiative to assist low-income residents. The "Turn the Key" program leading the effort is funded by the $400 million Neighborhood Preservation Initiative, which was passed by city officials back in 2020. First-time home owners will be prioritized and mortgages will come out to about $1,200 per month. (PhillyVoice.com)
3. Are you curious about Philadelphia's "sexiest Airbnb?" Nicknamed "The HottieHouse," this house in Northeast Philadelphia resembles a full-fledged video music shoot inside. The host, Siren Redd, decorated the house so that each room looks different. Her designs were inspired by female artists. Not only can Airbnb users rent the house, but they can book additional packages with Redd like hair, makeup, and videography services. (CBS Local)

Today in Philadelphia:

• Insomnia Cookies’ CookieLab’s One-Year Anniversary At Insomnia Cookies’ South Philly CookieLab (4:00 PM)
• Young M.A - Off The Yak Tour At Theatre Of The Living Arts (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• You don't have to travel too far to get a great hike in over the weekend in this nice weather. If you're looking for waterfalls and gorgeous views, check out these 10 spots on your next day off. (PhillyMag.com)
• Mother's Day is right around the corner. If you're looking for the perfect gift, head over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art's store to find gifts as unique as Mom! From handcrafted jewelry to lavender bath salts, there's something for every mom. (philamuseum.org)
• This year's Family Frolic has fun for everyone! Paint a freedom fist holding a beautiful strelitzia flower while learning about Juneteenth. Make a paper flower crown, create a press painting using real plants, win prizes, and so much more when you join The Philadelphia Flower Show on Jun. 19. (phsonline.org)

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Events:

• DelVal’s Center for Learning in Retirement Summer Online Registration Opens May 2! (May 2)
• Veterans Meet & Greet (May 5)
• Financial Empowerment Workshops (May 5)
• Reggie Harris in Concert (May 7)
• Mother's Day Brunch or Dinner (May 8)
• Hire A Pro To Tackle Mom's To-Do List (May 8)
• 6th Annual Cherry Hill PBA Local #176 Golf Classic (May 16)
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• Integrated Hyperbarics is now OPEN! (Details)
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• Alden Star Rowing Scull (Details)
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• VideoTapeTransfers.TV (Details)
• PAUL STEIN /STEINWAY POOLS/ Pool Renovation Specialist (Details)
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That's it for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow with another update!

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a born and raised Rhode Islander, now living in New York. She works as a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and is a graduate of The University of Rhode Island, where she earned a degree in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or photographing her neighborhood as a street photographer.