Philly News Briefs: 6/23/15

1.) Philadelphia and several surrounding counties – Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware and Chester – are dropping ReadyNotifyPA in favor of a new emergency notification system. The new system takes advantage of newer technology to amplify services already available to the public, says Samantha Phillips, Philadelphia’s Emergency Operations Director. In addition to e-mails and text alerts, which were available under ReadyNotifyPA, the new system will also integrate voice notifications – crucial for those who don’t text or have internet capabilities. Residents will have to enroll in the new service, but once they do they can choose notifications for the area(s) they select. For instance, citizens may choose notifications for home and work, as well as the area of a child’s school. Philadelphia residents can sign up at phila.gov/ready.

Players show off the Sixers’ new uniforms. Credit: Philadelphia 76ers.

2.) Following the unveiling of a hip new logo, the Philadelphia 76ers have rolled out their new uniforms. The unis will be available in white, blue, and red versions – suitably patriotic. Several news outfits have pointed out the fact that the uniforms might be a bit of smart marketing for the Sixers, who have suffered one of the NBA’s worst records in recent years, as the throwback look will undoubtedly remind fans of past greatness. The uniforms have a classic look, with “PHILA” emblazoned across the front and stars running down the underarm seam. The red alternate uniforms will say “SIXERS.”

3.) An expansion of the state’s non-smoking law would extend the ban into all bars, hotels, and private clubs – places where Pennsylvania smokers are still currently allowed to light up. The original non-smoking law dates back to 2008. As there is little opposition to the bill, it is expected that it will pass. Under the bill, the use of vapor cigarette alternatives would also be banned in these locations.