South Philadelphia Public Record by The Public Record

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA

Vol. XV No. 49

Issue 635

December 5, 2019

“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”

PhiladelphiaPublicRecord

@phillyrecord

PhillyRecord

PhillyRecord.com

SWEET HARMONY

ST. LUCY’S SCHOOL students danced to the music at a holiday party hosted for blind children by the South Philadelphia Lions Club. More pics P. 2. Photo by Wendell Douglas

COAT

HOLIDAY

GIVEAWAY

GUIDE

P. 2

P. 8

Panepinto Jewelers 740 Sansom Street, Suite 506 Philadelphia PA, 19106

Store#: 215-923-1980 Cell#: 215-470-7629

Info@panepintojewelers.com www.panepintojewelers.com

T HE S O U T H PHIL A D EL PHI A P UB L I C R E CO R D

Seeing the Meaning of Christmas

The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($20 per year Optional Subscription) The South Philadelphia Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 755-2000 Fax: (215) 525-2818 editor@phillyrecord.com

ORGANIZING the party were, L-R, Louise Hanson, Barbara Melchiorre, Rita D’Antonio, Michael Giangiordano and Barbara Ricci.

EDITORIAL STAFF In Memoriam:James Tayoun, Sr. Editor/Publisher: Greg Salisbury Managing Editor: Anthony West Everyday People Editor: Denise Clay

THE SOUTH PHILADELPHIA Lions Club treated 100 children from St. Lucy’s School and Overbrook School for the Blind to a gala holiday party at the Waterfall Room – a tradition this charity has followed for decades. Photos by Wendell Douglas D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

NOTICE To whom it may concern:

Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Photographers: Leona Dixon PITCHING in to the affair were, L-R, noted Civil War re-enactor Albvert El, Jessica Frye and Thomas Donatucci.

Johnson Warms up

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A quien corresponda: Se avisa que Los Comisionados de la Ciudad en sus funciones como la Junta Electoral del Condado, comenzaran sus reuniones semanales el 11 de diciembre de 2019 a las 11:00 A.M. en el 6º piso de Riverview Place en la sala de audiencia de los Comisionados, Columbus Blvd. & Spring Garden Sts. Reuniones continuaran cada miércoles adelantes hasta nuevo aviso.

www.philadelphiavotes.com

Harry Leech

Director of Operations:Allison Murphy Production Manager: Sana Muaddi-Dows Sales Director: Melissa Barrett

City&State PA LLC 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-490-9314

Anthony Clark City Commissioner Comisionado Municipal

Al Schmidt Kevin A Kelly Vice Chairman, City Commissioners Acting Supervisor of Elections Vicepresidente, Comisionados Municipales Supervisor Interino de Elecciones

The Public Record welcomes news and photographs about your accomplishments and achievements which should be shared with the rest of the community. Contact us by phone, fax, e-mail or by dropping us a note in the mail. If you mail a news item, please include your name, address and daytime telephone number so we can verify the information you provided us, if necessary. The Public Record reserves the right to edit all news items and letters for grammar, clarity and brevity. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. City & State will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public. The Philadelphia Public Record is a publication owned by:

thereafter until further notice.

Lisa M Deeley Chairwoman, City Commissioners Presidente, Comisionados Municipales

Wendell Douglas Jim Jenkins

Circulation: Yousef Maaddi

Notice is hereby given that the City Commissioners, sitting as the County Board of Elections, will begin their weekly meetings on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. in the City Commissioners 6th Fl. Hearing Room, Riverview Place, Columbus Blvd. & Spring Garden St. Meetings will continue every Wednesday

Teamsters 628

THE DISTRIBUTION of nearly 500 coats at Myers Rec Center, organized by Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson, was done in partnership with Turning Point for Children, Empowered Community Development Corporation, Born Leader Family and Operation Warm, who provided the coats.

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

I S E P TA P H I L LY. C O M

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HAVE ONE THING

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THE HOLIDAYS IN PHILLY 3

IN COMMON

Can Philly Woman Win Solo Statewide Office?

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POLS on the STREET BY JOE SHAHEELI hiladelphia will have one favorite daughter on the statewide Democratic Party ticket in

2020. Nina Ahmad, a former deputy mayor under Jim Kenney, has been ambitiously exploring elective office for several years. In 2018, she took a shot at the lieutenant governor nomination in a five-way primary race that included a fellow Philadelphian, incumbent Mike Stack. The predictable result was that both of our city’s candidates lost to a Southwestern Pennsylvanian, Mayor John Fetterman, who enjoyed unified party backing from his region.

In 2016, Ahmad briefly studied the opening left by Congressman Chaka Fattah when he left office but decided against it since State Rep. Dwight Evans’ (D-Northwest) Northwest Alliance was much more entrenched. Ahmad is hoping the third time will be the charm as she vies to replace term-limited Eugene DePasquale, who is shooting for a congressional seat in Central Pennsylvania. She just picked up a key

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

Bilal Assembles Prime Team

INCOMING Sheriff Rochelle Bilal presented a reputable, broad-based transition team at a pre-Thanksgiving press conference. Photo by Dave Scholnick

Donatucci

Youngblood

D-185th District 2901 S. 19th St. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164

198th District

310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148

P: 215-849-6426 State Senator

Sharif

Street

1621 W. Jefferson Street Philadelphia, PA 19121

215-227-6161

State Senator

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Rep.Maria P.

Rep. Rosita

Always Hard At Work for You!

ally in the Southwest Coalition, which endorsed her at Dock Street Brewery South on Tuesday. The Southwest Coalition includes State Sen. Tony Williams, State Reps. Joanna McClinton and Jordan Harris, and City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson. Led by Williams, this group possesses statewide as well as citywide connections that can boost a candidate not just from her Northwest Philadelphia home across the city, but across the state as well. Ahmad, a longtime women’s-rights activist, has vowed to use the office to increase transparency and accountability in Pennsylvania. If elected, she would be the first woman of color and first immigrant elected statewide in the state. Ahmad has also been endorsed by State Sen. Art Haywood; Councilwoman Cindy Bass; State Reps. Steve Kinsey, Jared Solomon and Movita Johnson-Harrell; and Sheriff-Elect Rochelle Bilal. It is a predominantly younger-generation set on the city’s

Representative

Angel Cruz

District Office 3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643 Ready to Serve you

Paid for with PA Tax Dollars

NORTHWEST Philadelphia’s Nina Ahmad announced her candidacy for Pennsylvania auditor general, showing solid backing by a disciplined team of S. and W. Philadelphia politicos: L-R, Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson, State Sen. Anthony Williams, Ahmad, and State Reps. Joanna McClinton and Jordan Harris. Photo by Wendell Douglas

political scene. Ahmad has the potential to wring both Asian and Black backing as she cultivates both funders and volunteers. What’s she up against? A three-way field so far. Lancaster County’s Christina Hartman, who made a foray as a congressional candidate in Dutch Country territory once ruby-red but now fading to pink, has also tossed her bonnet into the race; as has Pittsburgh Controller Michael Lamb, who can actually claim a track record as auditor of a large Pennsylvania government. How do the numbers look now? While 2020 may be another Year of the Woman in Democratic politics, two women will split that advantage against one man. Hartman may score well in MidState Rep.

Joanna E.

AT YOUR SERVICE

McClinton 191st Leg. Dist. 52 S. 60th Street, Phila 19139

T: (215) 748-6712 F: (215) 748-1687

“Paid for with Pennsylvanian taxpayer dollars”

610 N. SECOND STREET 215.503.3245

Councilman

Mark

Squilla

8th Senatorial District

2103 SNYDER AVENUE PHILADELPHIA, PA 19145 (215) 755-9185 FAX: (215) 952-3375 ---SENATE BOX 203008 HARRISBURG, PA 17120 ROOM: 11 EAST WING (717) 787-5970 FAX: (717) 772-0574

STATE REP MARY ISAACSON 175TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

Anthony Hardy Williams 2901 ISLAND AVE. STE 100 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 FAX: (215) 492-2990 ---419 CHURCH LANE YEADON, PA 19050 (610) 284-7335 FAX: (610) 284-5955 6630 LINDBERGH BLVD.

state counties with biases against big cities, but those counties are increasingly shedding Democrats. Lamb is certain to tap the regional loyalty of Steelers fans. Ahmad’s path may be to combine Southeastern loyalty with outreach to a diverse swath of minority voters in pockets across the state. As city Democratic powerbrokers scratch their heads pondering their stance in the upcoming primary, observers are betting they will wind up endorsing the hometown candidate. The key question: how enthusiastically? A progressive with an independent reputation, Ahmed has nevertheless maintained ties with City administration’s far-reaching connections. (Cont. Next Page)

1st District City Hall Room 332

Councilman At-Large

DEREK S. GREEN City Hall, Room 594 Philadelphia, PA 19107

215-686-3450 www.phlcouncil.com

City Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker 9th District

District Office 1538 E. Wadsworth Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19150 Phone: 215-686-3454 Fax: 215-685-9271. www.phlcouncil.com/CherelleParker

Facebook: CouncilwomanCherelleLParker Twitter: @CherelleParker9

215-686-3458/59 Councilman At Large

TAUBENBERGER City Hall, Room 582 Philadelphia, PA 19107

(215) 686-3440 (215) 686-3441

State Rep.

Kevin J.

Boyle 172nd Dist. 7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

215-331-2600

Solomon Plugs Congressional Limits A local State rep has thrust himself onto not merely the statewide but the national stage by taking a stand on the governance of the U.S. Congress. U.S. Term Limits, a national, nonpartisan movement to limit terms for elected officials, is gathering support from State lawmakers across the nation. Its mission is to get 34 states to apply for an

SEPTA Gets New Top Philly Leader Leslie Richards, a Montgomery County resident who now serves as the PennDOT secretary, will succeed Jeffrey Knueppel as general manager of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority on Jan. 1. While no one disrespects the job duties of the State secretary of transportation, this is clearly a step up for a career administrator who has proved herself in a myriad of previous duties. She will handle the sixth-largest public-transit authority in the United States, with 9,500 employees serving 1 million riders in five counties. She will earn $329,732 – more than the governor. Richards has played a leading role in statewide PennDOT planning and investment. She launched the Transportation Investment

Plan as well as PennDOT Connects, which hooked the State’s spending further into local needs. There is talk that Richards may move from the suburbs into Philadelphia. If that happens, it would be the first in a long time that Philadelphia’s public transportation would be headed by a Philadelphian. Gov. Tom Wolf has tapped PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Yassmin Gramian to replace Richards. Gramian was responsible for many major projects, including the Roosevelt Boulevard Multi-modal Corridor Program, SEPTA Subway

5 T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D

bly to keep their job position from being slashed.

PENNSYLVANIA Secretary of Transportation Leslie Richards will become the general manager of SEPTA in the new year.

Concourse Improvement Project, Amtrak’s Keystone Corridor Infrastructure Rehabilitation & Reconstruc-

tion, PATCO Ben Franklin Bridge Track Rehabilitation and Philadelphia Airport Terminal F Modernization.

Which of These Costly Homeseller Mistakes Will You Make When You Sell Your Philly Home? Philadelphia - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today's market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don't get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7

deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled "The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar". To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1844-894-2805 and enter 2303. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

(Cont. From Prev. Page) Few will oppose her in public. But can either of her rivals penetrate a Philadelphia faction or two to dent her base here? Philly pols, unlike Pittsburgh pols, are notoriously open-minded when it comes to this sort of out-of-town deal-making – which is both a necessary strength and an inbuilt weakness.

amendment-proposal convention specific to term limits on Congress. State Rep. Jared Solomon (D-Northeast) has committed his support for term limits on Congress by signing the Term Limits Convention pledge. The pledge reads, “I pledge that, as a member of the State legislature, I will cosponsor, vote for and defend the resolution applying for an Article V convention for the limited purpose of enacting term limits on Congress.” Term limits on Congress have enjoyed wide bipartisan support in recent years – as much as 82% in a recent poll. Solomon’s opinion, like all his colleagues’, matters because in 2021 they will vote to redistrict Pennsylvania’s congressional districts – likely cutting one seat, leaving 18 survivors in musical chairs out of 19. Therefore all incumbents will be auditioning before the General Assem-

City of Philadelphia Public Hearing Notice The Committee on Labor and Civil Service of the Council of the City of Philadelphia will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at 1:00 PM, in Room 400, City Hall, to hear testimony on the following items: 190794

Resolution authorizing the Committee on Labor and Civil Service to hold hearings regarding service providers and employers honoring existing and prior worker contract agreements.

Immediately following the public hearing, a meeting of the Committee on Labor and Civil Service, open to the public, will be held to consider the action to be taken on the above listed items. Copies of the foregoing items are available in the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Council, Room 402, City Hall. Michael Decker Chief Clerk

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POLS on the STREET

Haywood Wraps up Poverty Project

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D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

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PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK

tate Sen. Art Haywood (D-Northwest) joined local elected officials for a dual event focused on economic justice: Haywood announced the People’s Budget and the completion of the Poverty Report at the Johnson House Historic

Site in Germantown. “Through low wages, lack of accessible child care, unreliable transportation, and poor workforce-development efforts, poverty can box many in and the box is hard to break through,” said Haywood. “We can reduce

poverty by taxing the rich to pay their fair share to increase revenue and spark productivity in the Commonwealth.” “As we do well, we can do good and investing in ordinary people is good for all communities across our

Commonwealth,” said his colleague Sharif Street (DN. Phila.). “I was pleased to join Sen. Haywood to announce my support for a budget that prioritizes working people, making investments in our schools, communities, and infrastructure will move Pennsylvania forward.” “It is time for us to do the right thing,” said Councilwoman-Elect Kendra Brooks. “Harrisburg doesn’t prioritize people. A people’s budget for Philadelphia means passing a living wage of at least $15 an hour and abolishing the tipped minimum wage. It restores cash assistance for the poor. It also returns local governance to our City, the economic driver of Pennsylvania, by lifting the many preemptions and limitations structurally holding us back. I stand with Sen. Haywood and millions across Pennsylvania in calling for a people's budget demanding collective investment.” “Poverty is a public-health and generational crisis requiring deliberate measures to overcome. It impacts all areas of life: mental, physical and emotional health; wellbeing, developmental progress and educational outcomes,” said State Rep. Isabella Fitzgerald (D-Northwest). “For these reasons, I support the People’s Budget, because it represents a comprehensive, well-thought-out and compassionate plan for Penn-

sylvanians. It addresses amongst other things: education, human services, tax relief, and criminal justice. It is an action on the road to financial and economic success for all Pennsylvanians.” “A massive public investment stands in the way of prosperity for most Pennsylvanians,” said Marc Stier, director of the Pennsylvania Budget & Policy Center. “The People’s Budget is a creative proposal to address the public-investment deficit by asking the rich to pay their fair share of taxes.” Haywood has just wrapped up a statewide tour studying the issue of poverty in Pennsylvania. He will roll out the People’s Budget and the Poverty Report are part of an economic justice initiative Senator Haywood will roll out in legislative proposals in 2020.’

Green Honored At National Affair Councilmember Derek Green (at Large) received the Susan Burgess President’s Award for Exemplary Leadership at Democratic Municipal Officials’ National Breakfast meeting. Named in honor of the late Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem and DMO President Susan Burgess, the award honors one member of DMO for their outstanding service to the organization. DMO National President and Detroit Councilmember (Cont. Page 12)

he news coming out of the office of Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro beginning Tuesday night sounded the foreboding notes of an all-too-familiar refrain. A statement released to the press indicated that an elected official would be charged with multiple crimes on Wednesday morning. The unnamed sources’ speculation was confirmed yesterday when Shapiro named State Rep. Movita Johnson-Harrell as the

Will Pa. Go Blue – for Whom? BY LARRY CEISLER e’re less than three months from the Iowa caucus and a year from the 2020 election. The Democratic field is – as expected – very much in flux. Here are some of my impressions. For a Democrat to win Pennsylvania in 2020, that candidate has got to be a moderate. He or she has to have a strong economic message, of course, and that means making sure that everyone – whether they’re upper class, middle class or working class – knows that you’ve got a plan to help them succeed. The battleground states for 2020 – Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin – will be won or lost based on the best economic argument. Trump has a great argument, in that the economy is good right now. The Democrats will argue that it’s not good for every-

one, and there’s some merit to that. Beyond that, Trump has accomplished the amazing feat of having a strong economy but being down in the polls – because with him, it goes much deeper. It goes to the level of discourse and the moral fiber of the country. So a Democratic candidate has to be able to both translate a coherent economic message that makes people feel secure, and also appeal as someone who will repair the torn moral fiber and govern with a sense of calm. Voters in these key swing states really want a break from the drama – they want normality. The recent 2019 elections show that Pennsylvania is more divided than ever between red and blue. The Democrats were very successful in Philadelphia and the local suburbs, flipping Delaware County and winning seats elsewhere. But

in my home of Washington County, the Republicans took control. I don’t know when something like that has ever happened before. If you’re the Democrats, I guess you say, ‘I’ll take that tradeoff,’ because the population is much larger on this side of the state. Clearly, the vote in the suburbs here was a vote against Trump. But the truth is that he has only accelerated what was already happening with the Philadelphia suburbs drifting toward the Democrats. That’s really a national trend – longtime GOP-held suburbs are moving away from that party. What Trump wrought was a surge in voter turnout in an off-year election. Democratic voters were more motivated. Republicans didn’t come out. The question now is, will the Republicans come out when (Cont. Page 14)

The News in Black & White

A STATE GRANT of $427,479 to provide programing for homeless veterans was presented to Impact Services, Inc. in Kensington on Nov. 27. Immediately afterward, Impact and State Sen. Christine Tartaglione treated veterans to a Thanksgiving feast. L-R standing behind Tartaglione were State Rep. Angel Cruz; veterans José Rivera, Michael Nelson and William Clack; and Casey O’Donnell of Impact. Photo by Wendell Douglas

MARK your CALENDAR Dec. 5- State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler hosts Holiday Office Open House at 2400 S. 9th St., 5-8 p.m. South Philly treats, unclaimed property. For info: (215) 271-9190. Dec. 5- 57th Ward Republican & Democratic Committees host “Donkeys & Elephants Bi-Partisan Party at Cannstatter Volksfest Verein, 9130 Academy Rd., 6 p.m. Charity for N.E. Victim Services & Thomas Raiker Scholarship Fund. Food, drinks, fun. Tickets: $40. For info: Pat Parkinson (267) 773-3251 or Brian McCann ((267) 7020509.

Dec. 5- Asian American Chamber of Commerce hosts Holiday Party at Lair KTV, 1025 Arch St., 6-8 p.m. Cash bar. Tickets: $15 includes 1 drink. For info: bit.ly/aaccgp-holiday. Dec. 6-8- Pa. Society meets at N.Y. Hilton Midtown. Honoree: Dr. Amy Gutmann. Performer: Leslie Odom, Jr. Dec. 6- Back on My Feet Phila. hosts Shoe Drive at Cookie’s Bar, 2026 S. 3rd St., 4-7 p.m. For info: Fred Druding, Jr. (215) 2212374. Dec. 13- State Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts Holiday Open House at 6511 Ridge Ave., 4-7 p.m. Light refreshments, sweets by Mercy HS students, unclaimed property, drawing, camaraderie. For info: (215) 482-8726. Dec. 14- Councilmember Derek Green hosts Toy Drive at Circles Lounge, 4800 N. Broad St.,, 2nd fl., 5-9 p.m. “Drop the Mic” karaoke. Bring a toy. Can be dropped off at City Ha., Rm. 594. For info: (215) 686-

3450. Dec. 16- Phila. Republicans host Holiday Gala at Stotesbury Mansion, 1923 Walnut St., 6-9 p.m. Tickets: $55, Couples $100, At Door $75.Open bar, high-end light fare, entertainment. Parking available. For tickets or RSVP: https://www.eventbrite. com/philadelphia:republican-holiday-gala-tickets-82756724591. For info: Barbara Coxe barbcoxe@gmail.com. Dec. 19- State Rep. Joanna McClinton hosts Seniors Holiday Health & Fitness Expo at Motivation H.S., 5900 Baltimore Ave. (enter through 59th St. yard), 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Holiday lunch, health & wellness vendors, exercise, line dancing, screening, entertainment, door prizes. For info: (215) 748-6712. Dec. 19- Congresswoman Madeleine Dean hosts Holiday Party at Winnie’s Manayunk, 4266 Main St., 5 p.m. Special guest: Congressman Dwight Evans.

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of fresh, unpoliticized air come to reinvigorate the scandal-tainted 190th House District. A symbol of grace and forbearance in the face of unadulterated bigotry during her landmark swearing-in at the state Capitol. For these reasons and others unmentioned, we had invested cautious hope into Rep. Johnson-Harrell. To read the shocking and yet depressingly familiar laundry list of charges is to once again have our faith shaken. This is, unbelievably, the 60th – SIXTY! – arrest of a public official by AG Shapiro since he took office in 2017. This is a body blow to our body politic. But we must pick ourselves up and try again. The citizenry deserves nothing less.

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

OPINION

subject. According to the Inquirer, Johnson-Harrell, a West Philadelphia Democrat who took office after a March special election, was charged with perjury, theft, tampering with public records, and related crimes, including taking $500,000 from her own charity to spend on herself. This is a tragedy on many fronts. Johnson-Harrell was presented as a feel-good story for Philadelphians and Pennsylvanians. A daughter who lost a father to gun violence. A sister who lost a brother to gun violence. A mother who lost a son to gun violence who rode her gun control advocacy to an electoral win. A proud, hijab-wearing Black American Muslim woman taking her seat in the State House – the first to do so. A breath

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Another Body Blow

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

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The 2019 Holidays Guide Courtesy of Visit Philly

uring the holidays, Philadelphia lights up. A festive holiday spirit spills from shops, theaters, restaurants, parks and stadiums that deck halls, trim trees and set tables to celebrate the season. This year promises heaps of spectacular things to do for the holidays in Philadelphia. Every must-do holiday list includes visits to Macy’s Christmas Light Show, a spin around the skating rink and festive goings-on at Philadelphia City Hall, a seat at The Nutcracker and a spot to watch the Rivers Casino New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront. Check out why the holidays are a great time to visit with our must-see holiday attractions in Philadelphia!

Parade of Lights at the Independence Seaport Museum Saturday, December 7 | 5:30 p.m.

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The Independence Seaport Museum puts on a festive day that culminates in an early-evening procession of decorated, lighted working boats on the Delaware River. The best place to view the shining boat parade is from the museum’s second-floor terrace with a warm seasonal

beverage in hand. 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

Washington Crossing the Delaware Reenactments at Washington Crossing Historical Park December 8 & 25 General Washington once again leads a surprise attack on the British during this annual reenactment — complete with army uniforms, a historic trek, demos, games and activities — at Washington Crossing Historic Park. Catch a dress rehearsal on Sunday, December 8 before the official free re-enactment on Christmas Day. 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing

Army-Navy Game at Lincoln Financial Field December 14 | 3 p.m. The Army Black Knights take on the Navy Midshipmen in this epic collegiate rivalry, now in its 120th year and returning to Lincoln Financial Field. While the football game is no doubt the main event, visitors won’t want to miss the official pep rally (Friday, December 13, 2019), tailgate (Saturday, December 14, 2019) and the Patriot Games, a two-day competition between Army and

Navy featuring a variety of mental and physical challenges throughout the city (December 13-14, 2019). 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way

Winter at Dilworth Park Through February 23, 2020 Holiday pop-ups abound around City Hall in the heart of Center City, including the dazzling nightly Deck the Hall Light Show (November 25, 2019 – January 1, 2020), projected onto the side of City Hall. The outdoor Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink & Cabin (through February 23, 2020) offer ice skating, skate rentals, twinkling lights, and indoor space to warm up and fill up on snacks, cocktails, seasonal beer and hot drinks. The charming, stroll-worthy Wintergarden (through February 23, 2020) is aglow with seasonal plants and lights. Also, the Made In Philadelphia Holiday Market (through January 1, 2020) returns with dozens of independent local vendors selling their wares. 1 S. 15th Street

Franklin Square Holiday Festival Through December 31 During the annual Franklin Square Holiday Festival, the Electrical Spectacle Hol-

FRANKLIN SQUARE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Photo credit: J. Fusco for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

iday Light Show presented by PECO makes this historic square twinkle, with free shows every night. Among the 75,000 bulbs set to music is a giant, illuminated kite. Other festivities include Saturdays with Santa; rides on the holiday train and carousel; comfort foods, local beer and hot beverages at Ben’s Sweets & Treats, and holiday fare at SquareBurger; and mini-golf. 200 N. 6th Street

Holiday Light Show at Fashion District Philadelphia Through December 31 Fashion District Philadelphia, which opened in September, celebrates its first holiday season with an inaugural light show. The retail and entertainment space boasts a 45-foot-tall floating tree with giant stainless steel mirror ornaments and a light show timed to music by the Philly POPS. The five-minute show runs every 30 minutes from 4 p.m. until closing, November 14 – December 31, with a live Philly POPS performance kicking things off on Thursday, November 14. 901 Market Street

Holiday Tours at One Liberty Observation Deck Through December 30 Seasonal tours transform this 360-degree attraction at the top of a skyscraper to honor the local holiday tradition of the Mummers Parade. Tours take place Friday – Sunday on the hour between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. There is no 2 p.m. tour. A holiday craft bazaar — with local vendors, craft beer, holiday treats and an appearance by Santa — pops up in the space as well on Sunday, December 15.

1650 Market Street

LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo Through January 5, 2020 (select dates) Two years in the making, a new, immersive display transforms the zoo’s day-scape into a nighttime multimedia light and music spectacle. Dancing lights and sounds throughout furnish illusions of animals (and trees!) coming to life. A flock of plastic flamingos forms a 25-foot-tall tree, an enormous polar bear display broadcasts the magnificence of our planet and all four seasons host their very own party. Seasonal fare, live performers, hot chocolate and ever-warming adult beverages promise to spark the holiday spirit. Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue

Christmas Village in Philadelphia Through December 24 The German-style Christmas Village returns to JFK Plaza, also known as LOVE Park, for the 12th year. Local and international merchants at 80 wooden booths sell handmade toys, winter apparel and crafts, plus edible and drinkable treats. Santa is on hand for photos, too! The fun continues around City Hall, where — new for 2019 — the 65-foot tall Christmas Village Ferris Wheel and Christmas Village Holiday Train pop up to activate the North Apron next to the Visit Philly Holiday Tree. Love Park, 15th & Arch streets

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular & Market Through January 1, 2020 The Comcast Center’s annual LED holiday show combines the Pennsylvania Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” a

magical sleigh ride over the city (with a bird’s-eye view of the new Comcast Technology Center) and a singalong in 15 minutes of free fun. More than 2 million people have seen the show since its debut in 2008. And the Comcast Technology Center debuts a holiday market for 2019, where visitors to the concourse can pick up gifts from a variety of vendors. 1701 John F. Kennedy Boulevard

Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium Through December 30 Marvel at the most underwater Christmas lights ever at Adventure Aquarium this year, with eight whimsical underwater Christmas tree displays, including the world’s smallest and tallest underwater Christmas trees. Visitors get the chance to see Scuba Santa and his “elfish” helpers diving beneath the surface and celebrating the season, as well as thousands of twinkling lights, colorful coral and sea-lightful illuminations that glow daily from November 29 through December 30. 1 Riverside Drive, Camden

Macy’s Christmas Light Show Through December 31 The Grand Court in the National Historic Landmark Wanamaker Building has hosted a Christmas Light Show since 1956. The department store continues the tradition of sugarplum fairies, dancing snowmen and more with a 100,000-light show narrated by Julie Andrews and accompanied by the famed Wanamaker Organ. Free performances take place every two hours during store hours. Between shows, visitors (Cont. Next Page)

Amid the evergreens at Morris Arboretum, the Holiday Garden Railway showcases a miniature winter wonderland complete with a quarter-mile of model-train tracks, seven loops and tunnels, 15 rail lines and model trains that cruise past scaled replicas of historic monuments and Philadelphia landmarks adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. 100 E. Northwestern Avenue

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Through March 8, 2020 The popular Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest returns with updated cabin decor; fire pits; a Kids Lodge arcade; a cozy, chalet-style Lodge Restaurant and Bar; sweets from Franklin Fountain Confectionery Cabin; and hearty fare from Garces Group and Chickie’s & Pete’s — all centered around a regulation skating rink with a spectacular view

The Miracle on South 13th Street Light Show Through January 1, 2020 A testament to South Philly’s neighborhood spirit, this one-block stretch of lighted row houses — affectionately known as Miracle on South 13th Street — has become a national sensation. Each home features different decorations; lights and signs span the street. 1600 S. 13th Street

Visit Philadelphia Holiday Tree at City Hall The massive Visit Philadelphia Holiday Tree powered by NRG – a more-than50-foot-tall white fir covered in 4,000 feet of multi-color LED lights — features a dozen ornaments and a base that references 22 diverse neighborhoods around the city. The tree shines bright for the rest of the holiday season, joining the other awesome holiday happenings around City Hall this year, including a 65-foot-tall Ferris wheel and a children’s holiday train ride. 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard

Pennsylvania Ballet Presents George Balanchine's The Nutcracker December 6-31, 2019 The Pennsylvania Ballet returns to the grand Academy of Music for an

elegant (yet kid-friendly) Philadelphia dance tradition. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score pairs with lavish sets and costumes as well as enchanting performances by the dancers, members of the Pennsylvania Ballet Orchestra. Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad Street

Winter Wonderland at The Bourse Food Hall Through January 5, 2020 Philadelphia’s interactive, photo-friendly pop-up art exhibit returns this winter to The Bourse Food Hall with installations inspired by the season for visitors to immerse themselves in. The snow-filled backdrops and other exhibits come together to create an Instagram-worthy winter wonderland. 111 S. Independence Mall East

Holiday Concerts with The Philly POPS Through December 20 (select dates) The Philly POPS entertain crowds all winter long with special holiday concerts featuring some fabulous special guests. Uptown Christmas — with performances like the annual Spectacular Sounds of the Season shows (December 6-21, select dates) and a reprise of last year’s successful show Christmas in the City (Friday, December 20). The Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad Street

Tippler’s Tour: Yuletide Cheers & Beers December 5-26, 2019 (select dates)

PHILADELPHIA ZOO LUMINATURE Credit: Philadelphia Zoo

Historic Philadelphia, Inc., puts a holiday spin on its Tippler’s Tour, when the pub crawl, set in the winter of 1777 and led by a costumed reenactor, takes guests to four festive bars throughout

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN PHILADELPHIA Credit: J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Old City. Attendees can enjoy winter brews and entertaining historical facts on the special excursion. Tour starts at the Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street

A Very Philly Christmas at The Historic Houses of Fairmount Park Through January 1, 2020 (select dates) Six decked-out 18th- and 19th-century park mansions — Historic Strawberry Mansion, Cedar Grove, Laurel Hill, Lemon Hill, Mount Pleasant, and Woodford — open their doors for tours as well as holiday treats and performances during the 48th annual A Very Philly Christmas celebration. On most days, visitors can explore the gorgeous holiday decorations at the houses, while four ticketed special events — including Flavors of the Season (December 8, 2019), featuring free samples and demonstrations, and Sounds of the Season (December 14, 2019), offering festive live music at each house — offer more opportunities to explore these Fairmount Park gems. Various locations, including Laurel Hill Mansion, 7201 Randolph Drive

Rivers Casino New

Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront December 31, 2019 | 6 p.m. and midnight The Rivers Casino New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront features two major pyrotechnics displays over the Delaware River — one at 6 p.m. and another at midnight. The stunning show is visible from several attractions and waterfront spots, including Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, which offers programming throughout the night. Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, 101 S. Columbus Boulevard

Being ______ at Christmas at the National Museum of America Jewish History December 25 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The National Museum of American Jewish History hosts a variety of activities for folks who don’t celebrate Christmas (and those who do) during this annual event. In addition to the exhibitions within the galleries, guests can enjoy crafts, live music, storytelling, movies and face painting. 101 S. Independence Mall East

Kwanzaa at The African American Museum in

Philadelphia December 26 | 2-5 p.m. The African American Museum in Philadelphia hails the winter harvest by lighting the kinara and honoring the seven principles at this annual event. 701 Arch Street

The Mummers Parade Wednesday, January 1, 2020 This only-in-Philadelphia New Year’s Day tradition dates back to 1901 and includes thousands of adults and children wearing feathers and sequins while dancing to music and parading along Broad Street from Philadelphia City Hall, site of competition among the Comic, Comic Wench and String Band divisions, to Washington Avenue. The Fancy Brigade Finale competition at the Pennsylvania Convention Center consists of Broadway-inspired music-and-dance routines for prizes and bragging rights. Tickets for bleacher seating at City Hall and for the Fancy Brigades are available over the phone, via the mail or at the Independence Visitor Center. Parade starts at City Hall, South Broad Street and South Penn Square.

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Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum Through December 31

of the Ben Franklin Bridge. 101 S. Columbus Boulevard

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(Cont. From Prev. Page) often tour the second floor’s vintage Dickens Village, where intricate animated dolls and sets retell A Christmas Carol — and each free walkthrough ends in a chance to meet and get photos with Santa. 1300 Market Street

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The 2019 Holidays Guide

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ELEPHANT CORNER

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epublican lawmakers in the Pennsylvania House and Senate introduced a package of three bills that would let small businesses take a $1 million tax deduction for new equipment similar to a provision in the federal 2017 tax legislation. The bills deal with the terms of how a small business can exchange property, claim certain deductions for equipment and allocating of net operating losses to other taxable income. Former State represen-

EVERYDAY PEOPLE BY DENISE CLAY or most of the folks in City Council, this is the time of year that the most vulnerable of their constituents get a little help. From making sure that families have a turkey dinner for Thanksgiving to giving children clothes and coats of Christmas, the members of City Council spend time doing what they can for those in need. But this year, Council is trying to help its constituents in a way that may feel like a Christmas gift to many. More on that in a minute.

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tative, now state director of National Federation of Independent Business in Pennsylvania GORDON DENLINGER, said, “We have seen a surge across the country in small-business expansion and hiring ever since the federal tax law was updated, and [these three bills] will have a similar impact on our state.” Small businesses are those with fewer than 200 employees by most definitions. Other entities defining small businesses limit the number of employees to 100. To be exempt from some federal laws such as the Affordable Care Act, companies defined as small enough to avoid compliance must have less than 50 workers. Small businesses include manufacturers, professionals, farmers, retailers, and other entrepreneurs. Over 90% of businesses in Pennsylvania are small. They employ half of our workforce

and traditionally create two out of every three new jobs. The NFIB believes the national economy has remained strong under federal tax reform, and small-business optimism has been at record level. The NFIB, which performs extensive economic analysis on the economy and small business in October, released a report that a rising number of small-business owners across the country are planning job creation, inventory investment and capital spending. The NFIB believes Pennsylvania’s small businesses are hindered by outdated State tax laws that frequently differ from federal law. These three tax bills will help to eliminate some of those disadvantages. STATE REP. SETH GROVE (R-York) said, “Removing obstacles for small businesses allows them to compete effectively, which (Cont. Page 15)

For example, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson spent his Tuesday doing a coat drive at the Myers Recreation Center at 56th & Kingsessing. Working with Operation Warm, a nonprofit that serves low-income families, about 500 coats were given to adults and children so that they can stay warm this winter. No coat was left behind. “The goal was to get rid of all of them,” the councilman said. “I wanted everyone to have the opportunity to have a coat to stay warm, especially this time of year.” But after the coat drive, Johnson came back to Council to work on something that will help more of the residents in his district, especially those who fear losing their homes due to rising taxes. Last week, two bills were introduced that would impact housing in the City of Philadelphia. One would gradually wind down the 10-year tax

abatement for residential construction, something that those who are concerned with school funding have been seeking for quite some time. Commercial real estate would be exempt in the name of continued job creation. Council President Darrell Clarke said Councilwoman Cindy Bass introduced that bill. The other bill would raise the Homestead Tax Exemption from $45,000 to $50,000. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson introduced that one. The 10-year tax abatement bill was the subject of a negotiation between Mayor Jim Kenney’s office and Council. Were it up to Kenney, the tax abatement, something that was passed in the ’90s because developers wouldn’t touch Philadelphia with a 90-foot pole, would stay as it is. But since Council let the mayor know that their constituents wanted this tax (Cont. Page 15)

WALKING the BEAT BY JOE SHAY STIVALA “A TALE OF TWO CITIES” read the title to an editorial on Philly. We are allegedly two cities – one that the tourist sees in Olde City. But could this be a lack of local perspective from a MOUSE-CLICK view of our town? All neighborhoods that have been described as the “worst” have seen development. Just check permits issued to owners and developers. National Geographic has named our town as the key city in the world to visit in 2020. Yes, the tourists are mostly in Olde City; that

CITY HALL SAM

ity Council has passed legislation that allows tenants automatic right to counsel in eviction cases. The City will foot the bill, which could be substantial and tie up landlords in court for in ordinate amounts of time. Some may argue that it’s not hard to believe that Philadelphia has a bad reputation for business interests. However, Philadelphia is the poorest big city in America. And protecting the less fortunate is a big part of living up to their motto as the City of Brotherly Love. So

is WHY they came – to see history. We are not the poorest big city over 500,000 in population. We are one of seven cities chosen by the National League for a program to promote workforce success. To the purveyors of GLOOM and DOOM: Stop putting our city down!!! With the development ACROSS the width and breadth of Philly, a growing issue is WHERE will the poor live? Rents of $600$750 a month are vanishing to a new norm of $1,000 plus.... A newspaper has a weekly “Upside” section of happy news. But does that mean that we must wait a week for happy news? Why is TOO LITTLE made of some unhappy news such as $34 million wasted on a program to bring in substitute teachers – or schoolbooks filling vacant classrooms or basements? A columnist wrote that he promised us a monthly column on the environ-

ment. WHO told him that we were are interested in it? Another writer cited military experience of family members made her an expert on the Eddie GALLAGHER (Navy SEAL) issue. I disagree. Her column did not have an email address for rebuttal? A news story on incarceration of probationers for marijuana violations AFTER marijuana was decriminalized could end up in an ex post facto discussion. But sending folks on probation to jail for that seems OUTOF-DATE.... Judge Scott DiCLAUDIO seems to be looking at this. Let's put the emphasis on treatment of opioids, heroin and meth! BIRTHDAYS: Bravo to the ageless Chris PHILLIPS at Penn Vet School; State Rep. Jared SOLOMON; Phil PRESS, Esq.; Judge-to-be Anthony KYRIAKAKIS, Esq.; 57th Ward Leader Pat PARKINSON; 50th Ward Leader (Cont. Page 14)

kudos to City Council and MAYOR JIM KENNEY for doing the right thing. 54TH WARD LEADER and former City Controller ALAN BUTKOVITZ is telling folks he’s interested in being State auditor general. There are several other Philly candidates interested in the post. Philly can only win statewide when there is only one candidate. But the city has made it an art form to sabotage its fellow citizens over petty political rivalries and nonsensical doctrinal purity. Legendary Northeast 66B WARD LEADER MIKE McALEER is recovering nicely from surgery. He is regaining all his strength. 66B WARD CHAIRMAN JOHN DelRICCI has been Mike’s righthand man and made sure 66B has not missed a beat. There appears to be some unifying moves going on between several Northeast ward leaders, including SHAWN DILLON, PAT

PARKINSON and BRIAN EDDIS. The pundits have always said Northeast Philadelphia would win so many elections with unity. That has been the problem. But let’s see what happens as the days weeks and months go by. The usual linchpin is 56TH WARD LEADER JOHN SABATINA, SR., who marches to his own drum. That has been the case for decades. At one time, City Committee attempted to expel him for supporting Republican SAM KATZ against Democrat JOHN STREET. City Committee’s relationship with Sabatina Senior has been hot and cold. COUNCILMEMBER HELEN GYM assisted several third-party candidates in the last election and suffered no consequences. In fact, word on the street is she’s considering a run against CONGRESSMAN DWIGHT EVANS. Evans (Cont. Page 15)

understanding BANKRUPTCY BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: What happens to my retirement plan if I file for bankruptcy? Answer: Usually, you can keep your pension or retirement plan funds when you file a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Typically, the entire account is protected if it is ERISA qualified. Most 401(k)s, 403(b)s, profit-sharing plans and de-

as income are not exempt. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the court cannot take any retirement benefits that are necessary for your support, but it could take excess amounts to repay your creditors. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your retirement income will help determine what portion of your debts you must pay in your repayment plan. Next Week’s Question: Will filing for bankruptcy affect my job or future employment?

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fined-benefit plans are ERISA qualified. General savings accounts, stock-option plans and investment accounts can be ERISA qualified plans, but usually are not. Standard IRAs and Roth IRAs are protected up to $1,362,800 per person. Anything above that amount can be taken by the bankruptcy court to pay your creditors. It is also important to keep in mind that retirement benefits paid to you

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o! Here we go again with these amazing facts about the human body. Nothing nasty here, except some very interesting things that you may or may not know about yourself. The human body is just the thing for you to think about whenever you are bored. (There are no pictures, but what better chance for you to practice reading words?) The human body is a machine that is full of wonder. This collection of human body facts will leave you wondering why in the heck we

get cirrhosis of the liver than men with hair. At the moment of conception, you spent about half an hour as a single cell. There are about one trillion bacteria on each of your feet. Your body gives off enough heat in 30 minutes to bring half a gallon of water to a boil. The enamel in your teeth is the hardest substance in your body. Your teeth start growing six months before you are born. When you are looking at someone you love, your pupils dilate, and they do the same when you are looking at someone you hate. Your thumb is the same length as your nose. If you are normal, at this very moment I know full well you are putting this last fact to the test. Now remove your thumb from your nose and pass this on to the friends you think might be interested in comparing their thumbs to their noses as well.

LABORERS’ DISTRICT COUNCIL HEALTH & SAFETY FUND 665 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19123

(215) 236-6700

www.ldc-phila-vic.org Alan Parham, Adminstrator

Local 57 - Esteban Vera, Jr., Business Manager Local 135 - Daniel L. Woodall, Jr.,, Business Manager Local 332 - Samuel Staten, Jr., Business Manager Local 413 - James Harper, Jr., Business Manager Laborers’ District Council - Ryan Boyer Business Manager Building better and safer communities in Philadlephia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties

Do it Right, Do It Safe, Do It Union.

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the WAFFLE MAN

were designed the way we were. Are you ready? Here we go. Scientists say the higher your IQ, the more you dream. The largest cell in the human body is the female egg and the smallest is the male sperm. You use 200 muscles to take one step. The average woman is five inches shorter than the average man. Your big toes have two bones each while the rest have three. A pair of human feet contains 250,000 sweat glands. A full bladder is roughly the size of a softball. The acid in your stomach is strong enough to dissolve razor blades. The human brain cell can hold five times as much information as the Encyclopedia Britannica. It takes food seven seconds to get from your mouth to your stomach. The average human dream lasts 2-3 seconds. Men without hair on their chests are more likely to

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COMMONWEALTH Of PA BOARD OF PARDONS The following application(s) of the person(s) convicted in Philadelphia County will be heard by the Board of Pardons at its regular session in the Supreme Court Courtroom, Room 437, Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg, PA. Wednesday, December 18, 2019 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Amanda L. Beason Theft By Deception (9 Counts), Identity Theft (17 Counts), Unlawful Use of a Computer – Access to Disrupt Functions (15 Counts), Theft By Deception – False Impression (8 Counts) Jean R. Desir

Aggravated Assault, Possessing Instruments of Crime With Intent, Disorderly Conduct Engage in Fighting

Gwendolyn M. McCullough Intentional Possession of a Controlled Substance By Person Not Regulated Thursday, December 19, 2019 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Stephen Black Simple Assault, Criminal Conspiracy Kris D. Bolden

Controlled Substance Act – Manufacture, Delivery, Criminal Conspiracy

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Marylue Carter Prostitution, Criminal Solicitation to Voluntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, Criminal Conspiracy to Prostitution, Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault Leroy Cureton, Sr.

Theft By Receiving Stolen Property

Kevin C. Fields

Carrying Firearms on Public Streets or Public Property in Philadelphia

Randolph A. Gumby

Larceny of Automobile, Receiving Stolen Goods

Curtis W. Johnson, II

Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault

Lucille A. Johnson

Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition, Criminal Conspiracy

William L. Minor, Sr.

Simple Assault, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass

Tyrone R. Peake

Criminal Conspiracy, Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition

Thuy T. Pham

Criminal Mischief, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Controlled Substance (4 Counts), Recklessly Endangering Another Person

Erald Profka

Criminal Mischief (6 Counts), Theft By Unlawful Taking – Movable Property (6 Counts)

Jose G. Rodriguez

Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License

Jesus M. Rosado, Jr.

Manufacture, Delivery or Possession With Intent to Manufacture or Deliver a Controlled Substance, Criminal Conspiracy

Tyrone Ryder, Jr.

Controlled Substance Act – Manufacture, Delivery, Controlled Substance Act – Knowing and Intentional Possession

Cecilia M. Velasquez

Knowing/Intentionally Possess a Controlled Substance, Criminal Conspiracy (2 Counts), Robery, Possessing Instruments of Crime (2 Counts), Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault, Manufacture With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance

Rhonda M. Washington

Aggravated Assault, Public Assistance Act Violations (2 Counts)

Kermit J. White

Receiving Stolen Property – Business, Theft By Receiving Stolen Property

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Friday, December 20, 2019 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Reid Evans Robbery, Second-Degree Murder, Kidnapping – Force, Threat or Deception, Prohibited Offensive Weapons, Criminal Conspiracy Wyatt Evans

Murder II, Criminal Conspiracy

Robert L. Madison, Jr.

First-Degree Murder, Criminal Conspiracy, Possessing Instruments of Crime

Francisco M. Mojica, Jr.

Murder II, Voluntary Manslaughter, Robbery

Pedro J. Reynoso

First-Degree Murder

Friday, December 20, 2019 – Convening at 11:00 A.M. Corey L. Burrell Robbery (6 Counts), Possessing Instruments of Crime, Criminal Conspiracy, Aggravated Assault Charles M. Haas

Murder II

Dennis Horton

Second-Degree Murder, Robbery (4 Counts), Aggravated Assault, Criminal Conspiracy, Possessing Instruments of Crime Generally

Lee A. Horton

Second-Degree Murder, Robbery (4 Counts), Aggravated Assault, Criminal Conspiracy, Possessing Instruments of Crime Generally

Sheena M. King

First-Degree Murder, Burglary, Possessing Instruments of Crime – Generally, Criminal Conspiracy

Oliver I. Macklin

Criminal Conspiracy, Second-Degree Murder, Voluntary Manslaughter

PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK (Cont. From Page 6) Scott Benson presented the award to Green. “Derek is a champion of Democratic Municipal Officials, and one of our hardest-working Board members. His efforts leading the Labor Council have been indispensable in making us better advocates for the working people of America, and the unions that represent them,” he said. The award was held during the National League of Cities City Summit in San Antonio.

Murt Urges Workforce Readiness State Rep. Thomas Murt (R-Northeast) joined Gov. Tom Wolf and Pennsylvania’s Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Anthony Carrelli at a press conference to release a new report that revealed most young adults in Pennsylvania do not qualify for military service. “This is a sobering report and should be a wakeup call to the legislature,” Murt said. “We not only need to increase funding for early childhood development, but we must create tools to prepare our middle- and high-school students for future careers in the military and in the private sector. The current situation is clearly a risk to our national security and our economy.” According to the report, “Workforce Readiness: The National Security Threat from Within,” 71% of young adults in Pennsylvania between 17 and 24 do not qualify for military service. Complicating matters, due to low unemployment and competition with the private sector for qualified young people has significantly contributed to the U.S. Army missing its 2018 recruiting goal by 8.5% or about 6,500 recruits. The (Cont. Next Page)

Harris Applauds Cheyney Win Calling it a positive decision for both Pennsylvania and Cheyney University, State Rep. Jordan Harris (D-S. Phila.) congratulated Cheyney University of Pennsylvania for receiving accreditation. Harris said, “As the oldest historically Black institution of higher learning in the nation and the conscience of the African American community, Cheyney represents an integral cultural piece of the African American experience in higher education. “As a former chairman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, the PLBC and I were very involved in investigating and helping to form solutions to right the ship at Cheyney and I’m proud that that same passion has been continued by current PLBC Chairman Stephen Kinsey and his leadership team.”

Reynolds Brown’s Fuel-Oil Bills Pass Philadelphia City Council passed two bills introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown (at Large) to improve Philadelphia environmental standards and

City Council passed Right to Counsel legislation (Bill 190386) introduced by Councilmember Helen Gym (at Large). Right to Counsel builds on the work of the three-year-old Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project, and will provide City-subsidized lawyers for all low-income renters facing eviction. Landlords file over 20,000 evictions in Philadelphia each year – the fourth-highest number in the nation. The stigma and collateral impacts of eviction can trap families in a cycle of poverty that too often ends in homelessness. While over 80% of landlords hire lawyers during eviction, just 11% of renters have a lawyer to defend them. “When a city with the highest rate of poverty of all major U.S. cities establishes this bold right for our most vulnerable renters, we are leading the country towards justice for all,” said Gym. “Evictions in our city disproportionately target Black women, many of them single heads of household, and make children twice as likely to end up in foster care. Today, we showed the world that cities can put a stop to this eviction crisis and build a better justice system at the same time.” Without a lawyer, families are abruptly displaced from their homes in 78% of evictions in Philadelphia, but families with lawyers were abruptly displaced just 5% of the time, according to a 2018 report commissioned by the Philadelphia Bar Association. For every $1 allocated towards legal representation, the City will save nearly $13 in city services, according to Community Legal Services. Following an investment of approximately $5 million, the City is targeted to recover $63 million annually.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS Philadelphia COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW ACTION OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE Term No. 190509300 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Irma Brittingham, Deceased & WILLIAM BRITTINGHAM a/k/a GUY W. BRITTINGHAM Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Irma Brittingham Deceased Mortgagor and Real Owner Defendant TO The Unknown Heirs of Irma Brittingham, Deceased, MORTAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 3753 Avalon Street Philadelphia, PA 19114. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT OWED TO OUR CLIENT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM YOU WILL BE USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF COLLECTING THE DEBT. You are hereby notified that Plaintiff NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY, has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 190509300 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3753 Avalon Street Philadelphia, PA 19114 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia. NOTICE You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claim in the Complaint of for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE. ASOCIACION DE LICENCIADOS DE FILADELFIA Servicio De Referencia E Informacion Legal One Reading Center Filadelfia, PA 19107 215-238-1701

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Gym Gets Counsel For Eviction Cases

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(Cont. From Prev. Page) Army National Guard and Reserve missed its 2018 goal by a combined 17,000 recruits. These deficiencies led the Army to lower its annual growth expectations from 4,000 soldiers per year to 2,000 soldiers per year as the Army looks to grow the active duty force to half a million. “We must address this trend, or we risk not having a sufficient pool of talented recruits to serve in our military or in our civilian workforce in the future,” Murt said.

a resolution introduced by the councilwoman that calls on proposals to the oil refinery to consider the environmental and health impact on our city’s children and families. Reynolds Brown stated, “We must continue to plan for Philadelphia’s future by using an environmental justice lens. The citizens of Philadelphia deserve to breathe clean air and drink clean water.” Bill 190636-A will ban the use of heavy fuel oils in the City of Philadelphia. Heavy-oil use will be phased out over the next five years. Facilities that have already purchased and stockpiled heavy fuel oil have until July 2024 to use that oil. The deadline can be extended through 2029 on a case-bycase basis. The use of No. 2 oil will continue to be allowed in the city, along with natural gas and clean sources of energy like solar and wind power. Heavier fuel oils contain more sulfur and burning No. 4 and heavier fuel oils release more pollutants than their lighter counterparts. Those pollutants are linked to asthma, heart disease and lung disease. Bill 190600 will require large non-residential buildings to confirm their status as high-performing facilities or perform a building tune-up to save money and cut carbon pollution. Since 2013, to help achieve the goal and vision of a clean and energy-efficient city, Philadelphia has required all non-residential buildings over 50,000 square feet to report their energy and water usage annually through a benchmarking program. There are around 2,000 non-residential buildings that are currently benchmarking annually. These buildings account for less than 0.5% of all buildings in Philadelphia, but roughly 15% of the citywide carbon footprint.

COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central 1410 W. Erie Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700 PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION Lawyer Referral and Information Service One Reading Center Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-238-1701 Michael T. McKeever Attorney for Plaintiff KML Law Group, P.C., PC Suite 5000, BNY Independence Center 701 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322

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PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK

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Friends of Labor Meet Which Dem Hopeful Works? At AFL-CIO Party

L-R, former Pennsylvania Federation of Teachers President Ted Kirsch, City Commissioner-Elect Omar Sabir, Superior Court Judge Maria McLaughlin, former City Controller Jonathan Saidel, Councilmember-Elect Katherine Gilmore Richardson and Public Defenders Association head Keir Bradford-Grey circulated at the AFL-CIO holiday dinner.

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STATE SEN. John Sabatina was flanked by Bob Roth of Radius Bank, L, and Bryan Bush of Sheet Metal Workers Local 19.

(Cont. From Page 7) Trump is on the ballot? Philadelphia has 110,000 GOP voters and they stayed home in November, which contributed to the party losing a seat in City Council. Some of the latest Democratic polls show Mayor Pete catching momentum, even leading in Iowa. He’s now at Tier 1-A, as I’d call it. You have this race when Biden, Sanders and Warren are still at the top, and then Buttigieg. After that, Amy Klobuchar is hanging in there, and – to a lesser extent – Cory Booker. For all the slings and arrows he takes, Joe Biden is still standing. Because he was the best-known candidate going in, you had to expect his numbers wouldn’t grow as voters looked around at other candidates. The key for him was to not have them go down. And he’s still the leader. Elizabeth Warren’s numbers have declined recently, which is to be expected. When someone is the frontrunner, it’s their time to take the attacks. Biden has shown so far he can

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WALKING the BEAT

COUNCILMEMBER Al Taubenberger shared a holiday moment with Mary Frances Fogg, recently retired government-relations director at the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority.

COUNCILMEMBER Cindy Bass chatted State Rep. Ed Neilson, an Electricians’ Union member, at the Philadelphia 201 Hotel luncheon.

STATE REPS. Joe Hohenstein and Elizabeth Fiedler are outspoken advocates for organized labor.

Keir Bradford-Grey of the Philadelphia Public Defenders Association shared holiday cheer with AFLCIO President Pat Eiding.

(Cont. From Page 10) Marian TASCO; Pat BIANCULLI, Esq.; and Larry DeMARCO, Esq. The NEW VOTING machines did not work in Northampton County, but worked elsewhere in the state. Jill STEIN wants to get rid of the new machines. Go away, Jill.... The Anti-KRASNER intense minority are soon to be surrounded by REFORM DAs in our adjoining counties. Southeastern Pennsylvania will be a shining hub of needed reform.... The transition team of Sheriff-Elect Rochelle BILAL couldn’t be better! She will enjoy a daily media

withstand the attacks and the doubts. Warren has to do that now. She gained her stride in the summer, but the last debate was not good for her. She needs to use this opportunity to show people that her policies are realistic. That said, she is getting endorsements – certainly from important people in Philadelphia. But of course, we’re in a bubble in Philadelphia; we don’t always view things like the rest of the state or the country. Mayor Pete has momentum with the educated, the elites, that branch of the party. But he is not a realistic possibility until he finds a way to get African American votes. You cannot be the Democratic nominee next November if you don’t have African American support. As for Sanders, his health is a problem and that heart attack hurt his chances. Progressives are basically flipping a coin between Bernie and Warren. Many of them may worry that he can’t take them to Promised Land. In their minds, they may rationalize his heart at-

tack as a reason to go with Warren. The most-disappointing candidate so far is Kamala Harris. I think she’s really good, but this seems to, sadly, be a case of someone who is just not ready. Her flip-flops on a number of issues have hurt her. Her attacks on Biden backfired. She’s really talented, but hit too many potholes, the most fatal of which was lack of funding. It’s interesting that Mayor Bloomberg and former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick have stepped in. For Patrick, an Obamatype candidate, it’s too late to hire the right staff and raise enough money. For Bloomberg, I don’t see the opening or what he brings to the race. Bottom line: The field of Democratic candidates is good, although there’s no superman or superwoman who has yet emerged. The upcoming debates will help clarify that, and then it’s on to Iowa and New Hampshire. Larry Ceisler is the founder and principal of Ceisler Media & Issue Advocacy, a statewide political consultancy.

honeymoon – for a while. Mayor KENNEY, please ignore media taunts to chime in on the Police Commissioner selection. Take your time also on choosing a new director for the Office of Property Assessment! A reporter noted that she would attach little credibility to what Malcolm JENKINS says given his poor football performance. Excuse me? You smoke Newports? DEATHS: Miriam LEVY passed. The great wife of “Broad Street Bert” Levy of the Mountford Point Marines. Blessed Peace. A lot was written about Bill DOTY’S many accomplishments. When I served as state director of a U.S. Department of Defense

Committee, I picked Bill to lead seven counties in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Bill possessed the nicest sense of personal honor. Protestors in Hong Kong singing the Star Spangled Banner – that is heartwarming! (No one knelt)... There is SOMETHING SPECIAL about a busy nation that stops on Thanksgiving Day. Our nearly-400-million nation is unique in that regard. Listen to the loudness of the silence on that day. TEXAS and other GOP State attorneys general have filed suit to overthrow the Affordable Care Act. More uncaring can be found in GOP control of our legislatures – as federal officials and candidates offer to solve student debt.

CITY HALL SAM (Cont. From Page 10) also has marched to his own beat and made alliances against fellow Democrats when it suited him. He may be hoisted on his own petard. The conniving and maneuvering to undercut COUNCILMAN BOBBY HENON’S run for another term as majority leader is thick and tantalizing. His colleagues waited until they were re-elected to take advantage of his perceived vulnerability. Politics makes strange bedfellows and it will be interesting to see where the alliances form and what deals they try to

make. They should be aware that powerful labor leader JOHN DOUGHERTY has not been convicted of anything and will fight as long as it takes to win. The invitations for STATE SEN. VINCE FUMO’S Christmas party at the Green Street mansion have gone out. It’s interesting that a public servant who spent a number of years in prison still has a packed house for his holiday party. Fumo was considered divisive at times in his political career. But he has always been able to bring people together. That’s a skill that is badly needed in Harrisburg and in D.C.; not to mention the city of Philadelphia.

Local 98 Talks Turkey

LOCAL 98 members again volunteered for distribution of hundreds of turkeys and food items to area charities and needy persons. The Electricians gathered at the South Philly office of Local 98 at 3rd & Jackson Streets for a day of service around the city aboard delivery trucks. The unsung annual event has quietly operated for more than a decade. Photo by Joe Stivala

ELEPHANT CORNER

(Cont. From Page 10) helps grow more jobs for current and future generations. This omnibus package of bills would remove unfair tax obstacles small businesses must face.” Most of the provisions of the three bills are consistent with tax treatment small businesses received at the federal level. The first bill, HB 105/SB 201, would amend the State tax law to match the federal government’s allowance of

tax deferral when property is exchanged for a similar property. For example, a small business could trade a vacant piece of property that it does not need for industrial property of the same value that it can use to expand without incurring State tax liabilities, including property-transfer fees. Pennsylvania is the only state that does not permit this type property exchange for small businesses. The second bill, HB 1603/SB 202, would permit small-business owners to use a net operating loss

against other taxable income. Corporate taxpayers can already do this under State law in Pennsylvania. Sponsor STATE SEN. JUDY WARD (R-Blair) said, “Since small businesses don’t have access to the capital that larger companies have, their ability to use such tax strategies helps them have greater control over their financial positions.” She further noted, “For example, if an owner sells some personal items to help the business make payroll, that owner can take the business loss against his or

her tax bill created by selling the personal items.” The third bill, HB333/ SB 203, would allow small businesses to take the full expensing deduction the year an asset is purchased with a value of up to $1 million. Currently the cap on this deduction is $25,000. The federal cap is to $1 million. The NFIB believes that Pennsylvania’s extremely restrictive cap places its businesses at a competitive disadvantage to enterprises in other states and and retards business expansion.

T HE S O U T H PHIL A D EL PHI A P UB L I C R E CO R D

(Cont. From Page 10) done away with yesterday, he knew he’d have to accept something. That said, Mayor Kenney also had problems with the Homestead Exemption, something that Johnson couldn’t quite understand. “Not one of my colleagues have said that they’re against the bill,” he said. “I don’t know of anyone who would vote against tax relief for our citizens.” Both bills were the subject of a public hearing

that got contentious at times because, let’s face it, people want their kids to go to good schools, they want to live in their homes without the tax man looming, and they’d rather not see people who have $1 million homes not pay anything toward the upkeep of the streets, schools or anything else. In the end, both bills were passed out of the Committee of the Whole, and will get a first reading during today’s council meeting. The earliest they could be passed in on Dec. 12.

D E C E M B E R 5, 2019

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