The Philadelphia Sunday Sun

Leslie Patterson-Tyler By Kharisma McIlwaine As part of a broader organizational redesign that positions the institution for its next phase of growth, The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts recently announced three key leadership appointments.

Sharon Catherine Brown as Older Allie, in a scene from “The Notebook.” Photo credit: The Notebook North American Tour by Roger Mastroianni. By Kharisma McIlwaine Based on Nicholas Sparks’ book that sold millions of copies worldwide and the beloved film that remains one of the highest-grossing romantic dramas of all time, the first national tour of “The Notebook” is set to captivate audiences during its Philadelphia debut.

This image released by Netflix shows director Ava DuVernay, left, with 14th librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden, during the filming of the documentary “14th” about the 14th amendment, which gave liberty and rights to formerly enslaved people following the Civil War.

Antoine Johnson receiving his dialysis Photo courtesy: Antoine Johnson By Kharisma McIlwaine In 2023, Antoine Johnson was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure. Over the following year and a half, he managed the condition through dietary changes and a complete lifestyle overhaul. Then, in December 2025, an emergency hospital visit brought a sobering ultimatum: begin dialysis immediately or likely not survive the weekend.

Hannah Williams (center) Photos courtesy of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts Philly By Kharisma McIlwaine For two weeks this summer, a group of rising fifth through eighth graders traded their usual routines for something different—a chance to sing, dance, act, create digital art, and get an inside look at the performing arts.

12 Jul 2026 By Patricia Marshall Harris Summer has always been one of my favorite seasons. I love the beach, warm sunshine, fresh food, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. For years, I looked forward to maintaining a beautiful tan all year long—even escaping to tropical destinations during the winter months to soak up every ray of sunshine. Then one trip to Negril, Jamaica changed my perspective.

George E. Johnson Sr., who founded Johnson Products Company, is photographed at his company on the South Side of Chicago, Jan. 8, 1973. (Chicago Sun-Times via AP) By Corey Williams and Aisha I. Jefferson associated press CHICAGO — George E. Johnson Sr., a pioneer in Black hair care whose multimillion-dollar business was the first Black-owned company to be listed on the American Stock Exchange, has died at age 99, according to his family. Johnson died Monday at his home in downtown Chicago.

NETFLIX HOUSE PHILADELPHIA – STRANGER THINGS: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE. Photo by: Kat Kendon. Cr: Netflix Attractions, LLC. By Kharisma McIlwaine Netflix House has unveiled something new for fans of immersive entertainment. Following successful runs in cities worldwide — including Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, Mexico City, and Abu Dhabi — “Stranger Things: The Immersive Experience” now makes its Philadelphia debut exclusively at Netflix House.

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., center, and other Democratic House members react to the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold birthright citizenship at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, June 30, 2026. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) There’s an irony to the Supreme Court deciding birthright citizenship in the middle of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. One thing you have to hand to the Supreme Court is that it always saves its “best” for last.

Will Smith performs at the One Philly: Unity Concert for America to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary on Sunday, July 5, 2026 at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP) While triple-digit temperatures led to events being cancelled or moved indoors, Philadelphia celebrated the nation’s 250th anniversary by giving flowers to achievers with local ties.