We open with Tony Bruno filling in for Nick Kayal, who is already stationed at the Philadelphia museum steps to settle his election wager with Jimmy Matthews. Nick provides an early look at the scene, shows off his "I Am a Talarico" shirt, and explains that his daughters help him prepare by timing his practice sprints at home. We establish a 40-second over-under for the climb, introduce the crew helping Nick on location, and debate whether he actually has the stamina to survive all 72 steps. Tony and Dawn question the wisdom of the entire production, while Greg keeps track of the arrangements. Nick also jokes about his sinus infection, his training, and the political bet that puts him in this position.
Our first news discussions include severe weather headed toward Philadelphia, an alarming door-kicking incident in Upper Darby, and the sentencing of Mirvan Dinler after the rape of a Villanova student. We also discuss parental concerns in Southampton Township, New Jersey, where a man living near school property faces allegations of threatening behavior and authorities increase security. Tony and Dawn turn their attention to the SS United States, reflecting on the legendary ocean liner's history, its decades along the Philadelphia waterfront, and the decision to sink the vessel off the Florida coast. We discuss the ship's record-setting Atlantic crossings, its historical importance, and the new opportunities it presents for divers. Phil Almquist delivers sports news involving the struggling Flyers, Rex Ryan's arrest, and the upcoming NFC East matchup.
Later, we examine the scandal surrounding Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, the allegations concerning a woman suspected of Chinese intelligence connections, reports of another affair, and the potential financial and national-security consequences. We discuss the company's declining stock, the behavior of powerful executives, and questions surrounding congressional stock trading. We reconnect with Nick at the museum, where a woman completes the steps in just 19 seconds, encouraging Nick to reconsider his strategy. Tony demands practice sprints, and Nick gets moving before the actual race. We finish the hour questioning several popular environmental claims concerning plastic recycling, paper straws, reusable shopping bags, locally produced food, and electric vehicles.
