The Week in Philly: A record-breaking drought, a disparaging remark, and a look at all things SEPTA

 PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — How is the drought impacting our trees? How should you navigate a conversation with a loved one on the opposite end of the political spectrum from you? And what’s the latest with SEPTA?

Look back, look ahead, and get a better understanding of the stories shaping the Philadelphia region on “The Week in Philly” with Matt Leon and KYW Newsradio’s team of reporters. Listen on KYW Newsradio 103.9 FM Saturdays at 5 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Episodes are also available as a podcast or, you can check out individual segments below.

More than seven decades later, Erma Mulrine remembers a lot. The 93-year-old Newark, Delaware resident was one of several thousand passengers who set sail across the Atlantic Ocean from New York to France aboard the SS United States. For the past 30 years, the historic luxury liner has docked at a South Philadelphia pier. Soon, it will be on the move. KYW Newsradio’s John McDevitt caught up with Mulrine, who recalls her journey in vivid detail and expresses disappointment about future plans for the vessel.

Fall seems to be in full bloom with all the beautiful foliage outside, but according to an arborist, trees are actually off schedule this year amid the region's record drought. KYW’s Justin Udo explains.

Lots of news has come from SEPTA recently — from their CEO announcing her departure to the union authorizing a strike — but there’s good news for riders who have been frustrated by bus detours. KYW Newsradio’s Mike DeNardo gives an update on all things SEPTA and transportation.

If you have a friend or family member on the opposite side of the political spectrum from you, how do you talk with them about the election? Should you bring it up at all? For some, the issues at stake feel very personal and can strain relationships. KYW Newsradio’s Kristen Johanson spoke with a psychologist about how to navigate difficult political conversations in relationships you value.

Ninety miles south of Madison Square Garden, disparaging remarks towards Puerto Ricans made at a rally for former President Donald Trump touched a nerve. That’s because Philadelphia is home to the second-largest Puerto Rican population in the country. With Trump vying for Latino votes, not just in Pennsylvania but across the United States, KYW Newsradio Community Impact Reporter Racquel Williams investigates how the controversial comments played among local Puerto Rican community leaders.

So many numbers, and so much uncertainty about what to make of them. With Election Day almost upon us, and Pennsylvania poised to play a pivotal role in the presidential race, KYW Newsradio’s Matt Leon discusses the latest polling data from within the commonwealth with Dr. John Kennedy, professor of political science at West Chester University.