Philadelphia Daily record

1ol. I No. 164

Keeping You Posted With The Politics Of Philadelphia

February 17, 2011

Philadelphia Daily Record

The Korean Connection

HAILING BRIGHT FUTURE for Korean trade, Phila. Regional Port Authority Executive Director greeted South Korean Ambassador Han Duk-soo, saying this E. Asian nation has become a major player in the area’s economy – and will gain an added boost if Free Trade Agreement is signed. See story page X.

17 FEBRUARY, 2011

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

|

1

Casey Introduces Bill To Help Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses

Meat & Deli Prego Pizzelle Baker $29.99 $39.99 Uno Panini Grill

2024 S. 10th St Philadelphia PA 19148

215-468-5363

When You Want Your Roof To Be Done Right The First Time

215-464-6425

CANDIDATES • POLITICIANS News You Can Use! Boost Your Popularity, Win On Election Day! Tell Your Constituents To Read About All the Work You Do For Them On the

Philadelphiadailyrecord.com Email them a copy of this Publication!

Translation/Interpretation Arabic, Hebrew, English, French For more information, call William Hanna

267-808-0287 2|

US Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) has introduced a bill aimed at protecting minority- and women-owned businesses. The bill will prevent contractors from fraudulently adding minority- and women-owned businesses to bids without the intention of following through to deliver work to listed sub-contractors. In Pennsylvania alone, there are over 80,000 minority business enterprises employing more than 87,000 workers and over 327,000 women business enterprises employing about 470,000 workers.

“Especially in the current economic climate, supporting small businesses is vital to our economic recovery,” said the Senator. “This piece of legislation will help women and minority-owned businesses by protecting them from fraud and providing support for them to grow and create jobs.”

“We applaud Sen. Casey for his efforts in righting wrongs. Our MSDC-certified MBEs provide innovation, cost savings, and timely delivery and should be afforded every opportunity to fully serve its customers. Ultimately, this bill levels the playing field for certifiedMBEs, spurs business growth and puts Americans back to work,” said Alex Nichols and Wade Colclough, both president and CEOs representing Eastern and Western PennsylvaTHE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

nia Minority Supplier Development Councils – a corporate members purchasing council and affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council.

In some cases, prime contractors have reportedly listed MBEs or WBEs as subcontractors on their bids in order to strengthen their applications. This sometimes occurs without the knowledge of the MBE or WBE. When a contract is awarded, the MBE or WBE are sometimes unaware of their inclusion in the contract and sometimes do not receive the business from that contract. This bill would: • Require subcontractors identified on a solicitation for a competitive proposal made by an executive agency be notified by the prime contractor before the application is submitted. A written agreement between the prime contractor and the subcontractor must be submitted to the contracting officer that includes the identity of the subcontractor, the scope of the work to be performed under the subcontract and the dollar amount of the subcontract.

• Failure to notify subcontractors of their inclusion on proposals will result in the following: First-time offense: fine of 20% of the overall contract; second-time offense: fine of 50% and prohibited from seeking federal contracts for one year; thirdtime offense: permanently prohibited from seeking federal contracts.

17 JANUARY, 2011

Korean Ambassador Visits Packer Terminal soo, Korean Ambassador to the United States, and called for immediate congressional action on the trade agreement. The Ambassador and business leaders emphasized the agreement’s benefits to job creation across Pennsylvania.

The proposed agreement is expected to create 70,000 jobs in the United States while boosting the Gross Domestic Product by $12 billion

JAMIE McDERMOTT talks business with South Korean Ambassador Han Duk-soo at packer Marine Terminal in S. Phila., where a large, long-term investment to import Hyundais began last year.

Attendees included Wilfred Muskens, deputy secretary, Pennsylvania Dept. of Community & Economic Development; Tim Holt of Greenwich Terminals, LLC, a Holt subsidiary; Leslie Schweitzer, senior trade advisor, US Chamber of Commerce; and Marty Mascuilli of International Longshoreman’s Local 1291.

Muskens stressed Korea-Pennsylvania trade is built on a strong existing base, with numerous Korean companies and a large Korean American community in the Delaware Valley. Thousands of Korean students come to Pennsylvania annually.

And the trade is two-way. Several small local companies testified they have found a crucial market in South Korea, one they hope will blossom if tariff barriers are dropped.

DEPUTY MAYOR for Planning & Commerce Alan Greenberger, left, joined Packer Terminal owner Tom Holt to press for Korea-US Free Trade Agreement and Delaware River channel-deepening.

DA Responds To Archdiocese Announcement On Abuse Cases

District Attorney Seth Williams responded this morning to the Archdiocese’s announcement of the reexamination of cases cited in the Grand Jury report involving Holt Logistics Corp. hosted this morning the US Cham- complaints against 37 priests still active in the ministry. ber of Commerce’s US-Korea partnership: Growing Jobs Across America tour at Packer Terminal. The event “I commend Cardinal Rigali and the Archdiocese for brought together local business and labor leaders at the this latest action,” said Williams. “The Cardinal’s strong Port of Philadelphia to promote the job-creating benefits words and recent efforts are the correct steps at this time.

I will continue my commitment to working with him to of the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement. protect our children, and I highly respect his choice of At the press conference at the Packer Avenue Marine Gina Maisto Smith to lead this effort.”

Terminal, the leaders welcomed Ambassador Han Duk17 FEBRUARY, 2011

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

|

3

AFL-CIO Lays Out Vital Objectives For Pennsylvanians

by State Sen. Vincent Hughes

Feb. 16- Bill Rubin makes 9th Dist. Council campaign announcement at Flaster/Greenberg, 1600 JFK Blvd., Suite 200, 8:30-10 a.m.

Feb. 16- 5th Ward Democrat Leader Mike Boyle hosts dinner fundraiser for 5th Ward committeepersons at Bella Cena, 1506 Spruce St., 7 p.m. Candidates invited, $50 fee.

Feb. 22- 5th Ward GOP hosts meeting for all Republicans at St. Michael Orthodox Ch., 335 Fairmount Ave., 6:30-8:30 p.m.

RSVP Nate Shrader (267) 5192410.

Feb. 22- State Sen. Shirley Kitchen hosts free blood-pressure screenings at her District office, 1701 W. Lehigh Ave., 10 a.m.-12 m.

Feb. 22- 5th Ward/Northern Liberties GOP Meeting and Candidates Night 6:30-8pm--5th Ward at St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church Hall at 4th and Fairmount.. Voters invited to hear from Republican candidates for City Council-At Large and City Commissioner.

For additional info contact Nathan@NathanShrader.com Feb. 24- State Rep. James Roebuck hosts birthday bash at Warmdaddy’s, Columbus Blvd. & Reed St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Great jazz, good food. RSVP (215) 382-1268.

4|

Today, the AFL-CIO of Pennsylvania unveiled their legislative priorities for the 2011/2012 at a press conference in the Capitol. State AFL-CIO leadership said, “It is critical to Pennsylvania’s workers that we educate ourselves and take action when necessary against legislation that will weaken labor and will be disadvantageous to key programs that are the backbone for working people.” How important this is as we head into a very challenging budget season.

On Feb. 1, I attended the AFL-CIO Legislative Conference, where I spoke to almost 200 labor leaders from across the Commonwealth. As you know, I was recently elected Democratic Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. As such, I have a key role in developing Pennsylvania’s annual budget and establishing the state’s spending priorities.

I believe together, with a new leadership team in place and a renewed energy to focus on key issues impacting labor, Senate Democrats are prepared to move forward, and improve the lives for all working men and women.

The Pennsylvania AFL-CIO Legislative Conference is intended to establish goals and objectives to protect the interests of Pennsylvania‘s working families. We need to provide access to high quality, reasonably priced health insurance for all, prevent cuts to key safety net programs and services, build on successful job training programs, invest in schools and teachers so our children have a brighter future, invest in job creation programs, fund transportation, water, sewer and other infrastructure upgrades, and build on green investments and leverage federal money to grow industry here in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s AFL-CIO is addressing a number of issues this year, many of which were highlighted at today’s press conference. At the top of their list, and mine, is our budget. We need to ensure a fair budget to avoid harsh cuts of programs vital to Pennsylvanians as well as protecting and securing the jobs of State workers. Also, the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO is concerned about the privatization of Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and Wine & Spirits shops. Pennsylvania AFL-CIO wants to protect the 4,500 family sustaining jobs in this industry and keep liquor out of the hands of minors.

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO also hopes everyone says “no” to PA school vouchers being proposed in the legislature and protects our public schools.

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

17 JANUARY, 2011

It is worthwhile to visit their website, www.paaflcio.org, and learn about the various activities and hot topics occurring in our state. You can also participate in programs such as “Block the Lockout,” if you are an NFL fan, donate to the National Association of Letter Carriers food drive or find out how about many, upcoming events you can attend.

Avenue. There is no charge to attend. Workshops last approximately two hours.

“These workshops are designed to help individuals understand and prepare for possible electric rate changes by teaching them how to shop for energy suppliers and helping them make their homes as energy efficient as possible,” Waters said. “I am pleased to be able to host another of these events, which have been well received On the national front, the AFL-CIO keeps an eye on the in the District.” global economy, health care, workers’ rights, education and allowing individuals to balance work and family. During the workshop, representatives from energy comBut maybe most relevant right now, the national AFL- panies, including PECO, will provide an overview on CIO understands the need for “good jobs, now.” If you the electric rate increase, as well as cost-effective envisit their website at www.aflcio.org, you can join the ergy-conservation habits and programs. An energy-com“Good Jobs, Now” team and even share your story if pany spokesperson will address the issue of rate you are currently unemployed. Give this plight a voice increases, as well as give tips on how to look for and seor hear from others who are already in this struggle and lect a new energy supplier. speaking out.

Constituents who cannot attend the workshop can go to the Pennsylvania Office of the Consumer Advocate’s Also, both Pennsylvania AFL-CIO and I understand website, www.oca.state.pa.us, which offers a residential how important putting people back to work with quality electric shopping guide on how to shop and compare jobs is. It is imperative that we work diligently this sesprices for electricity and natural gas. Consumers also sion to ensure this happens for Pennsylvania. By workshould visit the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ing closely with my fellow Democrats, I am confident website, www.puc.state.pa.us, which offers many tips that we can grow the Commonwealth’s economy. We on how to decrease energy consumption and save are prepared to lead Pennsylvania. money, including information on budget billing, low-income heating assistance and efficient home heating The success we have had in the past gives us a roadmap equipment. to the future.

Residents may call Waters’ constituent service office at (215) 748-6712 for information about future events, or help with other state-related programs and services.

Waters Schedules Energy Workshop For Tuesday

State Rep. Ronald Waters (D-W. Phila.) has scheduled Savage Kicks Off Drive To Regain the latest in his mobile energy workshops designed to His Council Seat help people understand how to shop for energy suppliDanny Savage, a former 7th Dist. Council Member and ers. small-business owner, formally announced his camThe next workshop is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, paign to return to Philadelphia’s City Council Monday.

Feb. 22 at the Christian Compassion CDC, 62nd & Cedar Savage addressed supporters at a campaign kickoff 17 FEBRUARY, 2011

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

|

5

event in the heart of the District.

Warnings Of Doctor Shortage Go Unheeded

“Four years ago, I had the privilege to serve my neighbors in the 7th Dist.,” Savage said. “Although I was in

by Mike Alberti Council for only a short time, I am proud of my accomplishments and would like to build on the positive As of September 2009, at least 80 million Americans lived in areas with a shortage of medical practitioners change I started.” in at least one field, according the Health Resources and Savage was elected to City Council with nearly 90% of Services Administration. Many of those areas have a the vote in a 2006 special election. While in office, Sav- lack of access to primary care doctors, dentists, or menage improved his District’s business corridors and open tal health professionals. In 2006, 30% of US counties spaces and streamlined the Dept. of License & Inspec- lacked a single surgeon, according to the American Coltion as chair of the L&I Council Committee. Savage also lege of Surgeons. Shortages have also been reported in restored several playgrounds and recreation centers and several other fields in recent years, including pediatrics, launched community-organized sports in many neigh- radiology, and endocrinology. borhoods that hadn’t hosted a youth sports team in decades. Savage also worked to improve the quality of Additionally, a 2009 survey by the health care consultlife for the District’s seniors, visiting more than 4,000 ing firm Merritt Hawkins showed that — even in more elderly residents and allocating nearly $200,000 to local than a dozen cities with high physician-to-population ratios — physician appointment wait times had risen consenior centers. siderably, and across a number of specialties, since Savage, a fourth-generation Frankford resident, has 2005. opened several successful small businesses and served in a variety of public positions. Since leaving office in Having failed to increase medical-school or residency 2008, Savage has coached several neighborhood youth slots significantly in recent years, the US — with a stillsports teams and has been recognized for his efforts by growing and fast-aging patient population, and now face-to-face with an impending wave of physician reseveral local and national youth sports organizations. tirements — is poised to suffer even more serious physith “I’m running to represent the 7 Dist. because I grew cian shortages in the next decade, with estimates ranging up here and I love my community,” Savage continued. from 90,000 to 200,000 fewer doctors than will be “But we have too much crime and too few jobs, and it’s needed. time for government to focus on protecting our neighAnd because it takes a very long time to yield new docborhoods and not just downtown.” tors from any policy decision aimed at increasing the In conjunction with his announcement, Savage’s cam- number of doctors being trained in medical school and paign launched its official website, www.savagefor- the number of residency positions at which those medcouncil.com, which features his plan for the 7th Dist. ical schools graduates can get their post-graduate trainAccording to reports filed in January, Savage’s cam- ing, the window within which Congress and the medical paign has more than $25,000 cash on hand and is cur- community can act to avert the onset of a serious shortrently expanding its staff. age is closing rapidly.

Nevertheless, efforts to increase the physician supply in recent years have met with opposition from members of both political parties, and even from some segments of 6|

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

17 JANUARY, 2011

the medical community itself. The result has been a sustained political logjam, leaving advocates worried before the political will to address the problem develops, the consequences of inaction will be all too apparent.

Have A Comment You Want To Share With Our Readers????

Email it to editor@phillyrecord.com with the notation you’d like it to appear in the Daily Record.

Milton Lays Claim To Ex-Offenders’ Vote

FORMER State Sen. Milton Street uses his brush with the law as a status symbol, as he appeals to 52nd & Market Street crowd to join him in his mayoral primary effort to unseat incumbent Michael Nutter.

Meehan Greets Disability Leaders Congressman Pat Meehan took time out from a hectic schedule to meet with representatives of The Arc of Phila. in his Capitol office yesterday.

Here he is seen greeting, from left, Bruce Hulick, executive director of The Arc and Phila. Developmental Disabilities Corp.; Meehan; Laura Princiotta, COO of PDDC; and Nofre Vaquer, director of The Arc. These folks were participating in the three-day Disability Rights Network conference. Discussion with Meehan focused on employment and ability of people with intellectual disabilities to hold down jobs, earn a paycheck, and be taxpaying members of community.

Hulick urged Meehan to support Workforce Investment Act and make sure services offered are accessible to people with disabilities.

17 FEBRUARY, 2011

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

|

7

Yiddish Theater Tribute, Rhythmic Stompers Arrive On Avenue Of Arts

by Adam Taxin The Thomashefskys, a musical tribute to married Yiddish theater stars Boris & Bessie Thomashefsky, is performed tonight at 8 p.m. at Verizon Hall in the Kimmel Center.

Michael Tilson Thomas conducts this musical tribute to the Thomashefskys, who happen to be his grandparents.

Thomas is musical director of the San Francisco Symphony, artistic director of the New World Symphony (training-oriented orchestral academy in Miami Beach) and pioneer of new media efforts such as the recent YouTube Symphony. He guest-conducted a Beethoven/Bernstein/Schubert program at the Philadelphia Orchestra this past Thursday through Saturday.

(578-stomp) STOMP brings its remarkable brand of what-haveyou-got percussion to Merriam Theater this weekend.

the sounds of Stomp is described by the Kimmel Center website: “The eight-member troupe uses everything but Last night’s performance The Thomashefskys was “Jewconventional percussion instruments—matchboxes, ish Community Night,” sponsored by The Jewish Fedwooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, eration of Greater Philadelphia. hubcaps—to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.”

Support which made The Thomashefskys possible came from Constance & Joseph Smukler’s Hatikvah Fund, which promotes and nurtures a better understanding and appreciation of the culture of the State of Israel via classical music, which has long been a vehicle in which Jews in Israel as well as the Diaspora have distinguished themselves.

Broadway.com mentions that the show is “not big on speaking real words,” with the cast limiting “all communication between each other and the audience to grunts, nods and facial expressions.”

The show has been performed in New York’s Orpheum Theater since 1994. An expanded version of the show has been running since 1997 at Las Vegas’ at Planet HolStomp, a non-traditional dance troupe which originated lywood Resort & Casino, at a $28 million theater crein Brighton, UK in 1991, opened Tuesday at Center ated for the production.

City’s Merriam Theater for an eight-performance run through Sunday night.

Adam Taxin, a Center City attorney, can best be contacted via Facebook or at adamtaxin@gmail.com.

With some aspects which recall Blue Man Group, which played at the Merriam a few months ago, the genesis of

8|

THE PHILADELPHIA DAILY RECORD

17 JANUARY, 2011