Philadelphia Public Record

Vol. XVI No. 6

Issue 1045

February 6, 2020

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

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PHILLY FOR BERNIE mounted an impressive organizational display in the Field House at Reading Terminal by putting on an eight-hour Variety Show on Friday evening, Jan. 31.

Upwards of 500 people, mostly millennials, partied until 2 a.m., entertained by dozens of performers – while rallying to the cause of Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Local politicians summoned progressive fever, pumping donations and recruiting field workers for the primary. For a closer look at Philadelphia’s Sanders scene, see P. 9.

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F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

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Lawmakers Cheer Guv’s $1B for Schools

M

embers of the House Democratic Philadelphia Delegation, led by State Rep. Jason Dawkins (D-Kensington) applauded Gov. Tom Wolf’s plan to include funding to address lead issues in public schools, including those in Philadelphia, in the budget.

“Our children deserve to learn, and our teachers deserve to teach, in schools that don’t make them sick,” said Dawkins, chairman of the Philadelphia Delegation. “This is something that we can all agree on.

But for far too long, our children, teachers and anyone else who has entered school buildings in Philadelphia have taken their own lives into their hands because often lead and asbestos were lurking inside.

“My delegation colleagues and I are overjoyed at the news that Governor Wolf will be making investments in lead and asbestos

teachers and staff can learn and work in classrooms that aren’t detrimental to their health.

“I’ve been working tirelessly to secure more funding to remove toxic hazards in schools across our city and I look forward to continue working with the governor to remedy our schools of all toxic materials,” Kenyatta said. “Our children’s lives depend on it.”

State Rep. Jordan Harris (D-S. Phila.), House Democratic whip, said, “The very least we can provide to our children and our educators is a safe, clean environment in which to learn, and far too many Philadelphians don’t even have that.

“I’m incredibly thankful for the voices of my fellow legislators in the Philadelphia Delegation, as well as Gov. Tom Wolf for recognizing this problem and dedicating resources to help,” Harris said. “I also

hope that this brings attention to the state of the public schools in Philadelphia, as we are fast approaching a point where fixing structural issues piecemeal will simply not be acceptable and we’ll have to have a serious discussion about building schools to ensure our children get the education and school buildings they deserve.”

State Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-W. Phila.), chairwoman of the House Democratic Caucus, said, “I’m grateful to Governor Wolf for listening to the concerns of advocates and legislators. Our children deserve to learn in schools that are not falling down around them or threatening their health with unclean air. This is a great step forward that will benefit many schools in my district and in the city of Philadelphia.”

State Rep. Rep. Rosita Youngblood (D-Northwest),

secretary of the House Democratic Caucus, said, “I am truly grateful to Governor Wolf for making the remediation of lead and asbestos in our schools a priority. It makes sense to be able to utilize RACP funds for these projects considering this program is meant to improve our communities, and what better place to use these funds than in our schools?”

State Rep. Ed Neilson also hailed the project.

“Because of my career working in construction, I’m aware of the prevalence of asbestos around the Philadelphia region,” Neilson said. “I know that these toxic chemicals are nothing to play with, and yet we’ve allowed our children to go to schools where these toxins are present year after year. It’s time we make our children and teachers a priority, and I’m glad that Gov. Wolf has stepped up to do the right thing.”

Communities Apply for Spring Tree Gifts

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remediation projects in our schools. Finally, we can take the steps to make our school buildings safe places to learn and to teach,” Dawkins said. “After so many of us have fought for so long to bring attention to this crisis, we are so grateful that Governor Wolf is making this a priority.”

State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-S. Phila.) secretary of the Philadelphia Delegation, agreed that it’s great news Wolf plans to prioritize the funding to allow schools to get rid of toxins.

“We won’t rest until this money is a reality,” Fiedler added. “Every single Pennsylvania student and educator deserves a healthy and safe school building.”

State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D-N. Phila.), vice chairman of the Philadelphia Delegation, said, “I’m proud that Governor Wolf is allocating this additional funding to ensure students,

reePhilly is partnering with the Fairmount Park Conservancy and TD Bank to offer grants to Philadelphia community groups to distribute free trees to residents in their neighborhoods.

Now in its sixth year, TreePhilly’s Community Yard Tree Giveaway Program helps restore the city’s urban forest by collaborating with local partners in neighborhoods across the city. Each local organization selected to partner with TreePhilly receives up to $500, plus 25 to 100 trees to give to neighbors, friends and family with the TreePhilly staff. Twenty grants are available for the spring season.

“North Philly has some of the hottest neighbor-

hoods in the city,” says Victoria Cubillos-Cañón, NAC coordinator for Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha, a TreePhilly community partner in North Philadelphia. “Tree planting is a local solution that directly benefits residents and provides cooling and health benefits like lower asthma rates, improved mental health and more.”

Grant recipients will have the opportunity to provide free trees – including fruit trees, flowering trees, and shade trees – to their constituents at special events throughout March and April. Grantees will receive between $200 and $500, as well as event planning and educational support from TreePhilly.

All community groups

and institutions that serve Philadelphians – including civic associations, community development corporations, nonprofits, schools, faith-based organizations, and local businesses – are invited to apply, but only not-for-profit organizations and groups with a fiscal sponsor are eligible to receive the monetary award.

“Trees have huge health and environmental impacts on Philadelphia and its residents,” said Maura McCarthy, executive director of Fairmount Park Conservancy. “With TD Bank’s support, we are proud to champion TreePhilly’s efforts to team up with incredible partners to bring free trees to communities all over Philadelphia.”

TreePhilly launched its

innovative Community Yard Tree Giveaway Program in fall 2014, and has since awarded 89 grants to over 150 community groups. Since receiving an expanded sponsorship from TD Bank in 2018, TreePhilly has been able to provide grants to more partners than ever before.

“We are incredibly happy about the growth and success of the Community Yard Tree Giveaway Program,” said Erica Smith Fichman, community forestry manager at Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “We love partnering with local groups to provide free trees to their community. It has been an incredibly powerful way to reach new audiences and create urban forestry advocates across the city.”

Since 2012, TreePhilly has given out over 24,000 free yard trees to Philadelphians through its many programs.

TreePhilly's efforts are in direct response to the City of Philadelphia's sustainability goal to increase tree canopy coverage to 30% in all neighborhoods by planting street trees and yard trees.

TreePhilly is a program of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation in partnership with the Fairmount Park Conservancy, sponsored by TD Bank.

Applications for the spring 2020 Community Yard Tree Giveaway Grants are due Thursday, February 13, 2020. For more information or to apply, visit treephilly.org, email treephilly@phila.gov, or call (215) 683-0233.

The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($35 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 EDITORIAL STAFF In Memoriam:James Tayoun, Sr. Editor/Publisher: Greg Salisbury Managing Editor: Anthony West Everyday People Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Photographers: Leona Dixon

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Director of Operations:Allison Murphy Production Manager: Sana Muaddi-Dows Sales Director: Melissa Barrett Circulation: Yousef Maaddi 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.

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Teamsters 628

A HUGE rally featuring Mike Bloomberg was held at the National Constitution Center in Old City.

RADIO talk-show host Donna Gentile O’Donnell gets a signed autograph from presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg.

Photo courtesy O’Donnell’s Facebook page

MICHAEL NUTTER, former Philadelphia mayor, made a personal pitch for Bloomberg.

He is active in Bloomberg’s campaign (see P. 4).

Philadelphia - If you’ve tried to sell your home yourself, you know that the minute you put the “For Sale by Owner” sign up, the phone will start to ring off the hook. Unfortunately, most calls aren’t from prospective buyers, but rather from every real estate agent in town who will start to hound you for your listing.

Like other “For Sale by Owners”, you’ll be subjected to a hundred sales pitches from agents who will tell you how great they are and how you can’t possibly sell your home by yourself. After all, without the proper information, selling a home isn’t easy. Perhaps you’ve had your home on the market for several months with no offers from qualified buyers. This can be a very frustrating time, and many homeowners have given up their dreams of selling their homes themselves.

But don’t give up until you’ve read a new report entitled “Sell Your Own Home” which has been prepared especially for homesellers like you. You’ll find that selling your home by yourself is entirely possible once you understand the process.

Inside this report, you’ll find 10 inside tips to selling your home by yourself which will help you sell for the best price in the shortest amount of time. You’ll find out what real estate agents don’t want you to know.

To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-844-894-2805 and enter 2017.

You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how you really can sell your home yourself.

This report is courtesy of Larry Levin, Realtor, RealtyMark Associates. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2019

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

How to Sell Your House Without An Agent And Save the Commission

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

Bloomberg Comes to Town

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Campaign Kickoff Special

2 Philly Pols Take Lead National Roles

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POLS on the STREET

BY JOE SHAHEELI s the key storehouse of Democratic votes in one of the key swing states in the 2020 presidential race, Philadelphia is finding that its political leadership can be in high demand by national primary contenders.

Former Mayor Michael Nutter has taken on the job

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of campaign surrogate for his erstwhile compatriot Mike Bloomberg. The two connected in 2007 when both were mayors of large cities. With years of practical executive experience through good years and bad, the two share a pragmatic view of government.

Having entered the presidential race late in the game, Bloomberg’s strategy is to ignore the usual Iowa-New Hampshire starting points, where all the other candidates are already invested, and strike, well, everywhere else at once. This requires lots of money – not a problem for Bloomberg. But it also requires lots of bodies, which Bloomberg, like

every other candidate, has only one of.

Thus, Nutter has taken on the assignment of traveling alter ego, roaming the country in venues large and small, pitching Bloomberg’s virtues to Democrats.

Meanwhile, Congressman Brendan Boyle (D-Phila.) is working on a different team, favorite son Joe Biden’s. Following mainstream strategy, Boyle was all over Iowa in the runup to its game-opening primary caucuses, hitting smallscale events.

Boyle was also instrumental in securing the endorsements of several of his fellow Democratic congressmen in Iowa.

Although early results from the Iowa caucuses were chaotic, they showed Biden coming in fourth behind Pete Buttigieg, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. As we went to press, Biden had not secured any delegates yet.

While Nutter and Boyle may be far afield right now, count on them to be back in Pennsylvania well before April 28, when Pennsylvania’s crucial primary is held.

If the race continues on its current indecisive track, with no candidate holding a clear lead, both Biden and Bloomberg will be betting heavily on Pennsylvania – which yields many more (Cont. Page 6)

Fighting for Librarians

STATE SEN. Larry Farnese, L, joined Philadelphia Federation of Teachers head Jerry Jordan and concerned advocates to decry Philadelphia’s worst-in-the-nation librarian employment rate.

Photo: Farnese’s Facebook page

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

Political Directory State Senator

Representative

Sharif

Angel Cruz

Street 1621 W. Jefferson Street

District Office 3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643

Philadelphia, PA 19121

215-227-6161

Ready to Serve you

Paid for with PA Tax Dollars

State Rep.

Joanna E.

AT YOUR SERVICE

McClinton

STATE REP MARY ISAACSON

191st Leg. Dist.

52 S. 60th Street, Phila 19139

175TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

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

610 N. SECOND STREET 215.503.3245

Rep.Maria P.

Always Hard At Work for You!

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

Rep. Rosita

Youngblood 198th District

310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148

P: 215-849-6426

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State Senator

Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District

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.

For information on advertising in The Political Directory, please call Melissa Barrett: 215-7552000 ext 5; email: Mbarrett@phillyrecord.com

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

“Paid for with Pennsylvanian taxpayer dollars”

Councilman

Mark

Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332

215-686-3458/59 State Rep.

Kevin J.

Boyle 172nd Dist.

7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

215-331-2600

State Senator

Larry Farnese DISTRICT OFFICE 1802 S. BROAD STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19145 (215) 952-3121

HARRISBURG OFFICE SENATE BOX 203001 HARRISBURG, PA 17120-3001 (717) 787-5662

SenatorFarnese.com Email: farnese@pasenate.com Twitter: @LarryFarnese Facebook: @senatorlarryfarnese Paid for with Pennsylvania taxpayer dollars

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

Special Issue

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St. Patrick’s Day

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

Publishing March 12, 2020

Deadline: Friday, March 6, 2020

Please send your ad to mbarrett@phillyrecord.com or call Melissa Barrett, 215-755-2000 Ext. 5 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 • Philadelphia PA 19107

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Celebrating the accomplishments of the Irish American citizens of Philadelphia

Fiscally Fit

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OPINION

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

O

n Tuesday, Gov. Tom Wolf unveiled his sixth budget to the General Assembly and the citizens of the commonwealth. The $36-billion behemoth plan covers all things Pennsylvania and, as befitting a chief executive who has trumpeted its importance throughout his tenure in Harrisburg, education funding and policy were front and center throughout much of his address.

Perhaps most notably for Philadelphians, Wolf focused on bread-and-butter public-education issues,

POLS on the STREET

(Cont. From Page 4) delegates than Iowa and New Hampshire put together.

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It May Be Time For Term Limits

An idea as old as some on City Council may finally be coming to term – term limits, that is.

Councilmember Allan Domb (at Large), himself embarking on his second term, introduced a bill that would set a four-term limit on councilmembers. This would max out a career at 16 years.

The following week, Council President Darrell Clarke (4th District) entered a proposal of his own. His measure would allow councilmembers to serve 20 years but would also apply to City commissioners, the City controller and the sheriff.

Neither proposal is likely to seem immediately threatening to the Council majority, which is comprised of first- to third-termers. It would, how-

including the expansion of a $1-billion effort to fund efforts to remediate lead- and asbestos-tainted schools – a growing conflagration that is slowly consuming ever more buildings in the School District of Philadelphia. Also welcome news for worried parents, educators and advocates: public schools in the state would receive an additional $100 million, with an additional $25 million slated for special education, and funding to state-related universities – including Temple – would remain unchanged.

Perhaps the Wolf budget’s most-provocative education-themed gauntlet thrown at the General Assembly’s GOP majority is charter-school reform that would apply tiers to charters and lock them in to set tuition rates – changes that would save beleaguered dis-

ever, bring an end to Councilmember Brian O’Neill’s (10th District) career in 2024 after 44 years.

As a sweetener, Clarke’s proposal would eliminate the requirement that municipal employees quit their current jobs before seeking another municipal office.

That would certainly ease the course for elected officials who might want to, say, run for mayor someday.

Any changes like these would require a change in the City Charter, which would have to be approved by voters in an election.

Term limits are popular with voters but running for office while holding another office is less so. Clarke’s thinking is that if the two ideas are coupled in one ballot question, together they may squeak by.

Massive Reforms May Daunt Elections

County electoral boards across the state may find themselves swamped by a (Cont. Next Page)

tricts, including Philadelphia, some $280 million.

Wolf once again called for raising the state’s minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $12 an hour beginning in July, putting in motion a mechanism that would continue raising the rate until it hits $15 an hour by 2026.

A renewed assault on anti-gun-control includes pushing for a “red flag” provision that would allow firearms to be temporarily seized from people declared by a court a threat to themselves or others.

“Let’s make 2020 the year we choose to stop being cynical about the politics of gun violence,” he beseeched those assembled in the Capitol.

Gov. Wolf, we salute your optimism and faith in the process and in the ability of opponents to come to their senses.

MARK your CALENDAR Feb. 6- State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta hosts Census Bureau Job Fair at Liacouras Ctr., 1776 N. Broad St., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

No experience needed; hiring at $25.50/hr. For info: Jonathon Soussa (215) 978-0311.

Feb. 6- State Rep. Angel Cruz hosts Wine & Cheese at Salsa, 2126 E. Lehigh Ave., 4:30-7 p.m. Friends $100m, Supporters $250, Sponsors $500.

Payable to “Angel Cruz for the 180th.” For info: (267) 228-7231 or elections215@gmail.com.

The News in Black & White

PUBLIC-SCHOOL principals are represented in Philadelphia by Teamsters Local 502, Commonwealth Association of School Administrators. They convened a battle line of city politicos at their N. Broad Street headquarters, behind and alongside State Sen. Vincent Hughes, speaking, to back their demand for immediate remediation of asbestos in school buildings that threatens both students and workers.

Photo by Leona Dixon

Feb. 6- DA’s Office hosts “One Stop Job & Resource Hub” at Triumph Baptist Ch., 1648 W. Hunting Pk. Ave., 5-8 p.m. With State Sen. Sharif Street, Councilmembers Cindy Bass & Kendra Brooks, Nicetown Comm.

Development Corp. & numerous employers. For info: Jane Roh (215) 686-8711.

Feb. 6- Democratic 42nd, 49th & 61st Wards host Petition Signing Event at Majestic Ballrm., 800 W. Olney Ave., 5-8 p.m. Free. For info: Sharon Vaughn (215) 313-7019, Shirley Gregory (215) 276-0995 & Pete Lyde (267) 701-4503.

Feb. 6- State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler hosts Neighborhood Mtg. with Capt.

Hartzell at 2400 S. 9th St., 6-7 p.m. For info: (215) 271-9190.

Feb. 7- State Sen. John Sabatina, Jr. hosts ShrimpA-Palooza at Harmonia Cl., 2404 Orthodox St., 7-10 p.m. All-you-caneat shrimp, buffet & beer.

Friends $40, Tables of 10 $350 (must reserve tables by Feb. 3). Payable to “Committee to Re-Elect John Sabatina Jr.,” 1212 S. Broad St., 4th fl., Phila., PA 19107 or www.JohnSabatina.com. RSVP: Andrea (215) 251-0585 or Andrea@RittenhousePolitical.com.

Feb. 11-State Rep. Kevin Boyle hosts Labor Fair for G. Washington H.S. students at 10175 Bustleton Ave., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. On working in a trade & being in a union. For info: Brandie Kessler (7127) 787-7895.

Feb. 11- 8th Ward Democratic Executive Committee hosts Fundraiser & Candidate Meet & Greet at Rosewood, 1302 Walnut St., 5:30-7 p.m.

Cash bar, complimentary beverages & appetizers.

Suggested contribution $250. RSVP: Elaine (215) 704-9304 or elaine. petrossian@8thward.org.

Feb. 18- Last day to circu-

late & file nominating petitions for the April primary election.

Feb. 19- Councilmember Isaiah Thomas hosts “Black Excellence Evolving Fundraiser” at Somo Sophi, 1301 S. 13th St., 6-9 p.m.

Promoters $1,000, Patrons $500, Supporters $250, Individuals $100, Young Professionals $50.

Feb. 20- Republican City Committee hosts 2020 Kickoff Party at Revolution Ho., 200 Market St., 6-8 p.m. VIP Entry: $125/ Person, $100/Committee Person. Sponsor levels: POTUS $10,000, Veep $5,000, Senate $2,500, Congress $1,000. Payable to “Republican City Committee,” P.O. Box 28463, Phila., PA 19149.

For info: (215) 561-0650.

Feb. 23-Philly DSA for Bernie hosts Mass Canvass & Canvasser Party at Unity Ha., 1349 Unity St., 12 m.

RSVP: phillydsa.org/events.

Feb. 25- 190th Legislative District Special Election.

Kurland out, Morrison in Inspector General Amy L. Kurland will be leaving the City of Philadelphia after 12 years of service. Kurland is the City’s longest-serving Inspector General.

“I applaud Inspector General Amy Kurland for dedicating 12 years of her accomplished career to helping create a long-lasting culture of integrity in City government,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “She led many of our efforts to provide better services to taxpayers and develop protections for those who choose to speak up against wrongdoing.

Our administration has remained committed to creating a more efficient and effective government that the public can trust, and we’re grateful to Amy for moving us closer to our goal.”

During her career, Kurland initiated many valued reforms.

Kurland will be joining Bloomberg Associates, an international nonprofit consulting service that helps city governments improve the quality of life for its residents.

The mayor has named Alexander F. DeSantis as acting inspector general, while a search is underway for Kurland’s replacement.

Celena Morrison has been appointed to lead the City’s Office of LGBT Affairs as Executive Director. Morrison

will begin the post on Mar. 2.

In her new role, Morrison will drive the office’s policy work and community engagement. She will advise the Mayor’s Office and Philadelphia City government on the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, while

also helping to educate the City workforce on the needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

Morrison comes to the City after spending two years at William Way LGBT Community Center as director of programs, where she spearheaded critical initia-

tives including the opening of the Arcila-Adams Trans Resource Center. She has also served as a commissioner for the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations since 2018.

The Office of LGBT Affairs is part of the City’s Office of

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

While the office previously reported to the chief diversity and inclusion officer during the first term of the Kenney Administration, formal oversight of the office was established under Executive Order No. 1-20 earlier this year.

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

(Cont. From Prev. Page) one-two-three punch in the Apr. 28 primary: a batch of new voting machines, along with a law authorizing no-excuse absentee ballots and permission to register only 15 days before the election instead of 30 days as before.

Each of these changes is desirable. But together they pose a challenge to election administrators. Fortunately, Philadelphia is not one of the 22 counties that have yet to upgrade their voting machines, having successfully introduced its new, more secure units in the November 2019 general election.

But the other two will have an impact on City Commission. The new mail-in ballots must be readied by Mar. 9. And the Board of Elections must gear up to process new registrations in 15 instead of 30 days.

In addition, both of these changes are expected to produce a surge in registrations and in votes. So the Board of Elections will have to process more in less time.

Will the financial and personnel resources be there to handle the job smoothly?

City Commission is well aware of the situation and is working to plan for it. But its working budget was set last July so its options are constrained.

Let us all cross our fingers and pray there will be no first-time blues in this

primary, when Philadelphia will be in the nation’s eye.

www.ldc-phila-vic.org

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POLS on the STREET

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

Primary Election May Be Management Challenge

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Sabir Opens Office to All

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F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

POLITICAL leaders and activists jammed the City Hall corridor outside City Commission office to celebrate the long-pursued accession of Omar Sabir to that commission.

City Commissioner Omar Sabir joins 42nd Ward Leader Sharon Vaughn in happy surprise at the huge turnout for Sabir’s “Commissioner’s Open House. The large response can indicate City Commissioners’ success in voter education.

Photo courtesy of Sharon Vaughn’s Facebook page

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NEW REGISTER OF WILLS Tracey Gordon was there along with Afro-Caribbean leader Stanley Straughter and Northwest activist Numa St. Louis.

L-R WERE Young Democrats leader John Brady, Democratic 27th Ward Leader Carol Jenkins and power attorney Kevin Greenberg.

Farnese vs. Saval: Dueling Dollars

A

Christopher n epic battle is shap- ized contributions, and $4,500.00), ing up in Pennsyl- $27,948.90 from individuals Chimicles (two contributions vania Senate’s 1st giving up to $250.00. If the totaling $3,000.00), Steven District. Incumbent and small contributions for Saval Cozen (two contributions 8th Ward Democratic Lead- translate into boots on the totaling $6,000.00), Allen er Larry Farnese is getting ground for canvassing and Domb ($5,000.00), Ori Feiheat from Nikil Saval, for- primary day GOTV, it could bush ($10,000.00), Frank Giordano (three contribumer Democratic leader of spell trouble for Farnese.

On the PAC side, tions totaling $6,000.00),ElWard 2. The 1st runs along the Delaware River from Farnese received a total of mer W. Heinel (three contriEastwick to take in most $196,900.00 from various butions totaling $3,000.00), of South Philadelphia, all PACs. Saval received $0.00. Leo Holt (two contributions Center City and a part of the If these PAC dollars from totaling $5,000.00), Gary Farnese (many of which Jonas (three contributions River Wards.

Both appear to have filed came from unions) turn totaling $5,000.00), Mark campaign finance reports into footsoldiers, Saval will Nicoletti (two contributions for 2019 on Friday, Jan. 31, have a difficult time beating totaling $5,000.00), Jason Nusbaum ($5,000.00), Mat2020.Summary informa- Farnese.

Large individual donors to thew Pestronk ($5,000.00), tion is as follows: Friends of Farnese Friends of Nikil Saval Beginning Cash Balance (1/1/2019) $61,681.68 $0.00 Unitemized Contributions ($50.00 or less) $218.00

$8,241.60 PAC Contributions ($50.01 to $250.00) $250.00

0.00 All Other Contributions ($50.01 to $250.00) $5,625.00

$27,948.90 PAC Contributions (Over $250.00) $196,650.00

$0.00 All Other Contributions (Over $250.00) $229,950.00

$83,546.00 Total Contributions Received $432,693.00

$119,736.50 Total Funds Available $494,374.68

$119,736.50 Expenditures $198,039.98

$16,047.40 Ending Cash Balance $296,334.70

103,689.10 In-Kind Contributions $3,287.02

$3,008.16 Debt $48,321.73

$0.00 Both candidates claim Saval included Greg Garrison Daniel J. Rhoads, Jr. (two six-figure war chests, but (two contributions totaling contributions totaling the financial advantage $10,000.00), Jeremy Glick $4,000.00), Thomas Scanclearly rests with Farnese. ($10,000.00), Evan Husted napieco (two contribuFarnese ended 2018 with (three contributions total- tions totaling $6,500.00), only $61,681.68 in the ing $4,900.00), and Daniel Jay Shaw (two contribubank, and $71,386.54. Debts Schlozman (two contribu- tions totaling $3,500.00), at the end of 2018 included tions totaling $2,800.00) Towne Real Estate Co., LLC Casual inspection of Saval’s ($5,000.00), Joseph Volpe the following: Montgomery, McCracken, Walker & Rhoads $7,585.19 Legal Fees Klehr, Harrison, Harvey, Branzburg, LLP $16,301.35 Legal Fees Jay Costa for State Senate $17,500.00 Loan Received Fumo for Senate $25,000.00 Loan Received Fumo for Senate $5,000.00 Loan Received Farnese appears to 2019 annual report indicates (two contributions totaling have engaged in some he has a number of contrib- $4,000.00), Michael Weiss much-needed fundraising utors from outside the Phila- ($3,000.00) and Joseph Zuto shore up his finances and delphia area. ritsky (three contributions to face the challenge from Large individual donors totaling $4,000.00.)

Saval he may have seen to Farnese included Leonidis Large PAC contribucoming. Much of the money Addimando ($5,000.00), tors to Farnese included he received was from large Aimco Properties LP (two AFSCME AFL-CIO 13 PAC contributions from PACs contributions totaling (three contributions totaland wealthy donors. He $4,500.00), Bart Blatstein ing $4,500.00), Carpenonly received $218.00 from (two contributions totaling ters Legislative Program unitemized small donors, $3,000.00), Thomas Cara- of Greater Pennsylvania and $5,625.00 from individ- manico (two contributions (two contributions totaling uals giving up to $250.00. totalling $4,000.00), Cris- $15,000.00), Friends of Lisa By contrast, Saval received tina G. Cavalieri, JD, BSN Boscola ($5,000.00), Inde$8,241.60 from unitem- (two contributions totaling pendence Blue Cross PAC

(two contributions totaling $2,500.00), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 8 PAC (two contributions totaling $3,500), IUOE Local 542 PAC (four contributions totaling $20,000.00), IUPAT District Council 21 PAC ($5,000.00), Jay Costa for State Senate ($5,000.00), Pennsylvania Automotive Association (two contributions totaling $5,000.00), Pennsylvania SEIU COPE ($10,000.00), PFT Committee to Support Public Education (two contributions totaling $3,500.00), Philadelphia Builders for Affordable Housing (two contributions totaling $5,000.00), Plumbers Local 690 PAC (three contributions totaling $10,000.00), Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 19 League for Political Education (three contributions totaling $22,500.00), and Steamfitters Local Union 420 Committee on Political Education (two contributions totaling $7,500.00).

On the expenditure side of the reports, Saval busied himself with hiring staff for his campaign, spending $12,453.02 of his $16,047.40 on payroll-related expenses.

Farnese paid $5,000.00 to First Law Strategy Group, LLC for Legal Fees, $5,000 to Fumo for Senate for Loan Repayment, $17,500 to Jay Costa for State Senate for Loan Repayment, and $7,585.19 to Montgomery McCracken, Walker, and Rhoads in what appears to be a loan repayment.

Rittenhouse Political Partners received $68,532.98 in consulting and expenses, and Farnese donated a total of $7,500.00 to the Senate Democratic Campaign Committee. The Dover Group received an $8,500.00 retainer related to website design and an additional $8,000.00 related to consulting and expenses.

TWO DOZEN entertainment acts like the West Philly YMCA Afro-Caribbean Belly Dance Fusion performed throughout the evening.

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

Sanders Fans Party with Political Purpose

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SALEM SNOW announced his candidacy for the 2nd Congressional District, challenging incumbent Democrat Brendan Boyle.

ANN DIXON of West Philadelphia added her signature to a Bernie Sanders nominating petition

SPEAKERS urged attendees to volunteer to do door-to-door canvasing across the city. Scores of hands shot up in the air.

BERNIE paraphernalia of all types was on display and for sale at a line of tables – among them a line of earrings.

BUTTONS galore offered a Bernie message for everyone’s taste.

RICK KRAJEWSKI is a progressive challenger in West Philadelphia’s 188th Legislative District.

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SERGIO CEA, AN ACTIVIST WITH Greenpeace and Reclaim Philly, was busy all night filling nominating petitions with signatories.

COUNCILMEMBER Helen Gym and State Rep. Art Haywood spoke fervently at the event. Although Haywood did endorse Sanders four years ago, neither Gym nor he have made formal presidential commitments yet. But they made clear their loyalty to Sanders’ base.

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

THE GROUND FLOOR of the cavernous Field House in the Reading Terminal was jammed with 400 Bernie Sanders enthusiasts last Friday night for a variety show that ran until 2 a.m.

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GOP Features Black History Del Valle Bids For the 175th REV. JOE WATKINS of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Strawberry Mansion addressed the topic.

Watkins has seen a lot of history himself as a White House aide under President George H.W. Bush, as a political candidate and as an educator.

PHILADELPHIA Republican Party kicked off Black History Month with a symposium at United Republican Club in Kensington to discuss its role in this community’s rise. Photos by Wendell Douglas

Boxing Gym Opens

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

FORMER aide to Councilmember Maria Quiñones-Sánchez, Andre del Valle held a public campaign launch with several dozen followers from different backgrounds at the Plough & the Stars in Old City. His entry makes the 175th now a three-way Democratic primary race.

STATE REP. Martina White, who chairs Republican City Committee, was flanked by the GOP candidate in the 2nd Congressional District Sheila Armstrong and Ronald the Comedian.

STATE REP. Danilo Burgos joins Philly Boxing Foundation Chair Fred Druding, Jr. at the grand opening of the Pivott Boxing Academy. The gym, located in Burgos’ 197th District, is off to a good start attracting both amateur and professional boxers.

PHILADELPHIA COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE By: Alexander M. Lee, Esq., New Jersey Bar ID No. 012131996, 354 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 201, Caldwell, NJ 07006, tel: (973) 364-1688, fax: (973) 718-4314, email: amlee@amleelaw.com, Attorney for INTERNATIONAL DIODE CORPORATION, a New Jersey corporation (the “Corporation”).

Blondell Boosts Philadanco

NOTICE TO ABSENT SHAREHOLDERS PHILLIP BLUM TO: PHILLIP BLUM, HIS HEIRS, SUCCESSORS & ASSIGNS, Last Known Shareholders of INTERNATIONAL DIODE CORPORATION, 229 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison, New Jersey 07029.

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YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED a Special Meeting of the Shareholders of the Corporation is hereby called at the following location, date and time: Place of Meeting: Law Offices of Alexander M. Lee

354 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 201

Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 Date and Time of Meeting: February 28, 2020, 1:00 p.m.

At such Special Meeting, the Corporation shall transact any and all lawful business which may be transacted at such meeting or at any adjournment or adjournments thereof as may be deemed advisable by any member present, including but not limited to (1) approval of the sale/transfer of the Corporation’s real estate property known and described as 229-233 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison, New Jersey 07029 to the Purchaser, Vale New Homes LLC; and (2) authorization of Lee-Min Toong, President, to execute and deliver a Deed, Affidavit of Title and all other such documents required so as to effect the sale/transfer of the aforesaid real estate property, and to accept all proceeds of the sale/transfer, on behalf of the Corporation. Any business transacted at such meeting or at any adjournment or adjournments thereof shall be as valid and legal and of the same force and effect as if such meeting or adjourned meeting were held after notice.

Please respond to this Notice by contacting the Attorney for the Corporation, Alexander M. Lee, Esq., 354 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 201, Caldwell, NJ 07006, by February 26, 2020, or otherwise attend in person the Special Meeting on February 28, 2020.

FORMER Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown hosted a gala “Legacy” benefit at Suzanne Roberts Theatre for the dance troupe Philadanco, of which she is an alumna and now serves on its board. The troupe performed some of its works after the reception.

BLONDELL Reynolds Brown, C, was joined by her four sisters at the Legacy Reception on Avenue of the Arts.

MEMBERS of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. turned out in force for the gala. Photo by Emilee Taylor

AFL-CIO PRESIDENT Pat Eiding was one of a parade of witnesses who testified to Jacquinto’s public service – in his case to her pro bono work for organized labor.

DEMOCRATIC Party Chair Bob Brady presented the newly robed judge with an American flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol.

PARTYING later that night at Sheet Metal Hall in S. Philadelphia at Jacquinto’s celebration were, L-R, City Commission Chair Lisa Deeley, legendary DJ Jerry Blavat and nightclub entrepreneur Sid Booker. Photo by Wendell Douglas

HANGING OUT were, L-R, Judge Jimmy DeLeon, City Commissioner Omar Sabir, Sid Booker and Ducky Birts. Photo by Joe Stivala

A LIVELY crowd danced the night away.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

MICHAEL GUINAN, business representative for hosting Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, was seen here with Bob Brady. Photo by Wendell Douglas

L-R WERE Judge David Conroy, Barb Deeley and “once and future Judge” Dan Sulman.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

TWO OF Jacquinto’s biggest supporters were Ward Leader Renee McNair, L, and Pat Sullivan.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

CONGRATULATING Judge Carmella Jacquinto were Renee Celia and Pasquale Epifani.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

PROMINENT Democratic activist Cathy Higgins, L, and Judge Tracey Roman paid their respects.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

OVERBROOK political activist and former State Rep. Lynwood Savage came with his son Jeremy.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

JERRY BLAVAT caught the limelight with Corinthia Johnson, L, and Pat Sullivan.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

A WHO’S WHO of city Democratic activists came out for Jacquinto’s party. Photo by Wendell Douglas

T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

AN IMPRESSIVE roster of judicial leadership presided as Judge Carmella Jacquinto took her oath of office on a Bible held by nephews and niece Gabriella Jacquinto, Aiden Pepe and Gino Pepe.

L-R on the bench are Family Court Administrative Judge Margaret Murphy, Municipal Court Presiding Judge Patrick Dugan, Superior Court Judge Maria McLaughlin, Common Pleas President Judge Idee Fox and Common Pleas Administrative Judge Jacqueline Allen.

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After Years of Striving, Jacquinto Dons Her Robe

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Rebuild Recruits for Skilled Trades Training

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he City’s Rebuild program is currently recruiting candidates for paid, parttime training designed to connect participants with careers in the skilled trade unions. Made possible by

PUBLIC NOTICE

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

AT&T proposes to replace an existing 20’ traffic light pole with a new 30’ traffic light pole and install a top-mounted antenna at 34.5’ at 1637 locust St, Philadelphia, PA (20191951).

Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

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

(215) 236-6700

www.ldc-phila-vic.org

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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.

the Philadelphia Beverage Tax and a signature initiative of Mayor Jim Kenney’s, Rebuild is committing hundreds of millions of dollars to restore parks, recreation centers, and libraries in neighborhoods across the city.

Rebuild’s spring 2020 workforce program will support diverse Philadelphians seeking entry to trade unions. The program will facilitate a highly targeted match between union contractors and motivated, fully vetted candidates. Candidates interested in becoming union bricklayers, roofers, or carpenters will be prioritized, but those interested in other trades are also welcome to apply.

Participants will receive accelerated placement

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to replace an existing 20’ metal pole with a new 30’ metal light pole and install a top-mounted antenna at 34.6’ at 1345 Windrim Ave, Philadelphia, PA (20191996).

Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

AT&T proposes to replace an existing 20’ metal traffic light pole with a new 30’ metal traffic light pole and install a top-mounted antenna at 34.5’ at 3901 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA (20191953).

Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

with union contractors and/or union apprenticeships; paid, part-time professional development; onboarding resources including initial union dues payments and starter tools; and access to ongoing coaching and other supports. As they progress in their training, apprentices will work on Rebuild sites across the city. Prior construction experience is preferred, but not required.

The first cohort of Rebuild trainees started the training program in September 2019. Today, 50% of those enrolled in the program have been accepted into apprenticeships with trade unions.

“Since breaking ground on the first Rebuild project last year, we have begun capital improvements at 62 parks, recreation centers, or libraries,” said Kira Strong, executive director of Rebuild. “The success of these investments will be measured not only by the rec center with a beautiful new gym, but by the gym built by a diverse workforce providing long-term career opportunities for Philadelphians.”

PUBLIC NOTICE AT&T proposes to replace an existing 20’ metal traffic light pole with a new 30’ metal traffic light pole and install a top-mounted antenna at 34.5’ at 531 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA (20191980).

Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

BY DENISE CLAY ight now, no one could blame you for feeling like the folks in the federal Department of Justice have decided to spend all of their time in Philadelphia.

Every year, or at least that’s what it feels like, there seems to be some sort of activity at the federal courthouse on Market Street that has a direct connection to someone in Philadelphia’s political universe.

From the indictment and trial of former City Treasurer Corey Kemp in the early

R

for voting to give the organization charter school contracts. He is scheduled to be sentenced in March and is looking at 10 years in prison and $500,000 in fines, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He’s cooperating with prosecutors.

Johnson and Chavous are looking at 40 years in prison apiece for the two counts in which they’re charged.

The bulk of the counts, and the hundreds of years in time attached to them, is aimed at Islam and Dawan.

As a lot of things in Philadelphia seem to be these days, this is an indictment about development. In this case, it’s the former Royal Theater site in South Philadelphia and other properties owned by Universal.

Back in 2000, Universal bought the property at 1524 South Street site from the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia for more than $286,000. The company tried to develop (Cont. Next Page)

BY JOE SHAY STIVALA received an E-SURVEY from a daily newspaper that I subscribe to. It stated that it was planning CHANGES, and wanted my input. (I have not seen changes implemented that were promised in December). In the survey, they never began with telling us what changes are to be made and when. To me, the daily press and editorial boards are MONARCHIES. An editorial on city cycling noted that Philly’s compact street grid offers OPPORTUNITY to get

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CITY HALL SAM

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nother sad day in Philadelphia arose when popular City COUNCILMEMBER KENYATTA JOHNSTON and his wife DAWN CHAVOUS were indicted. The charges are familiar… Pay to play.

The federal government alleges that Johnson gave favorable zoning to a Grays Ferry developer in exchange for a consulting job for his wife. Johnson is the second City councilmember currently under indictment.

BOBBY HENON also faces 40 counts in the big JOHNNY DOC case. The

Office where the Special- 13 Agent-in-Charge loudly told an agent to “BRING ME MORE CASES.” A way has to be found to provide notice for car owners whose LEGALLY PARKED cars are relocated for events, street construction, etc. – by the City and private tow trucks. The technology is available, and to ignore it is sloppy and lazy. Also mean-spirited and uncaring. Take a look at the quasi-state agency Parking Authority handheld technology!

Getting a BACK SEAT on the list of problems in our public schools are the serious lack of libraries, librarians, nurses and computers.

The SODA TAX is working in Philly, but not in other cities. A lot of the revenue from it is said to be UNSPENT? It is time for Mayor KENNEY to reduce the tax rate to a LOWER LEVEL; or he can do it if he (Cont. Next Page)

media love to say that this harkens back to the Abscam days when numerous City Council and congressional representatives were sent to prison. However the Abscam cases were a sting by the feds utilizing people posing as Arab sheiks to bribe elected officials.

Back then, CONGRESSMAN OZZIE MYERS was caught on tape saying, “Money talks and bullshit walks.” That was probably the beginning of the end of Philadelphia clout in D.C. and Pennsylvania. Sam is not saying that corruption is acceptable; only that the radioactive effect of federal investigations on politics leads to fear and inactivity.

Both Henon and Johnson have stood up for their constituents and fought for sensible laws and development. Neither guy is rich nor will be. But both will now face the death-defying tightrope walk in facing the overwhelming force of federal prosecutors.

Word on the street was that Henon recently turned down a deal. Kenyatta Johnson and his wife have gone public in stating their innocence. Sam doesn’t understand why anyone would want to be in elective office.

The only thing that comes with the title is pain and criticism.

Sam heard from his Republican Washington sources that all of these corruption cases will take center stage during the closing days of the presidential contest. Thus Trump will be able to talk about Philadelphia corruption and keep the turnout low. In the meantime, the rest of the state will rally behind their redneck instincts in support of the president.

The Trump plan is cynically ingenious. And leaving nothing to chance, Trump purchased an obscenely expensive Super Bowl commercial spot to tout his enlightened criminal-justice (Cont. Next Page)

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

2000s to former Congressman Chaka Fattah and his son Chip, to former District Attorney R. Seth Williams to the upcoming trial of City Councilmember Bobby Henon, reporters have had more than a few occasions to quote Lincoln Steffens’ declaration that the city is “corrupt and contented.”

Last Wednesday, Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson became the latest person indicted as part of the U.S. Attorney’s residency in Philadelphia City Hall.

Johnson, his wife, Dawn Chavous, former Universal Cos. CEO and CFO Rahim Islam and Shahied Dawan in a 22-count indictment that included tax fraud, honest services fraud, embezzlement and, the U.S. Attorney’s favorite charge to level, racketeering.

Michael Bonds, former president of the Milwaukee School Board, pled guilty back in May to two counts of bribery for taking money from Universal in exchange

WALKING the BEAT

people where they want to go. BALDERDASH. The grid offers FEWER opportunities to SHARE THE ROAD. Do these writers kiss up to cyclists? Do they offer views of motorists?

Do they imagine a brave new world where people from kids to seniors use only bikes – even in the WORST WEATHER? Why do they fail to note that cyclists are no more than 5% of the population?

The FEDS’ case against Kenyatta JOHNSON seems frail (?). I read where Johnson’s wife did not do as much work as she should have (?). Did the Feds become the Labor Department? When did low performance become a CRIME? I do not recall being U.S. Attorney McSWAIN at the press conference? Is a headline-grabbing press conference necessary to send the clippings to Washington? I saw a movie about a Justice Department

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

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ast Saturday Republican City Committee and the North by Northwest Philadelphia GOP sponsored “Celebrating Back History” at the United Republican Club.

The three-hour program came about in large part by the efforts by WARD LEADERS CARNELL HARLEY (13th). and SHEILA ARMSTRONG (14th).

The event began with an invocation by PASTOR GLENN DAWSON (the Republican leader of the 37th Ward). RCC CHAIRWOM-

vention WARD LEADERS HON. PAUL PANEPINTO (34th) and DENISE FUREY (46th). REV. JEANNETTE DAVIS, founder of the D. I. V. A. S. Ministry asked the candidates to join hands as she offered a prayer for the group.

WANDA LOGAN, our candidate for the special election, on Feb. 25 for the 190th District was at the event prior to Davis’s prayers. She left to knock on doors. Is this déjà vu? We had a special election this time last year to file a vacancy resulting from VANESSA LOWERY BROWN’S inability to take her State rep seat owing to a felony conviction. This vacancy is owing to STATE REP. MOVITA JOHNSON-HARRELL pleading guilty to embezzling from a not-for-profit to the tune of $500,000.

MICHAEL HARVEY was our candidate in the 2019 special election.

(Cont. Next Page)

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ELEPHANT CORNER

AN and STATE REP. MARTINA WHITE, who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed Dawson. TERICA GREEN gave a beautiful rendition of the State Spangled Banner and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

White asked anyone running for office to come to the front of the room. MICHAEL HARVEY and PRINCE JOACHIM are running for Congress in the 3rd District, hoping to face incumbent CONGRESSMAN DWIGHT EVANS in November. Sheila Armstrong is running for Congress in the 2nd District, hoping to take on incumbent CONGRESSMAN BRENDAN BOYLE. AARON BASHIR is running for State representative in the 172nd Legislative District; as he is unopposed, he will face incumbent Democrat KEVIN BOYLE in November.

Rounding out the group were two candidates for Delegate to the Republican National Committee’s con-

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

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ELEPHANT CORNER

political analyst on MSNBC frequently being the sole conservative voice on many panels on that channel.

He was in the GEORGE H.W. BUSH White House.

He was an assistant to VICE PRESIDENT DAN QUAYLE when Quayle was in the U.S. Senate. Watkins. was appointed the chief recovery officer of the bankrupt Chester Upland School District in 2012. Prior to going to Chester Up-

land, he was the executive director of Students First, a PAC that supported school choice.

In addition to the ward leaders who put together the event and attended as speakers and candidates, WARD LEADERS BRUCE HOYT (7th), LeNARD SHOTWELL (11th), KEVIN PASQUAY (45th), FRAN WOODRUFF (55th) and CONNIE WINTERS (59th) were also there.

Sunday night, ANDY REID did for Kansas City that he could not quite do for Philadelphia – Reid won the Super Bowl. Many of us in Philadelphia were rooting for him and his Kansas City Chiefs. Reid was criticized not only for failing to win a Super Bowl for us, but also when he took on quarterback MICHAEL VICK, who was convicted of a felony for running dog fights.

In addition to the Chiefs’ fourth quarter turnaround victory, their Defensive Tackle DERRICK NNADE won praise. Nnade announced he would celebrate his Super Bowl win by paying for pet adoptions at the KC Pet Project (pet shelter). Apparently, there were lines around the corner of the shelter to take advantage of Nnade’s largess.

Perhaps more importantly, Reid garnered praise for

stating that he intended to go to the White House as he said, “It’s quite an honor.”

Did Reid say this because he is making a political statement? Frankly, I have no idea of Reid’s politics.

He does not talk about politics – he talks about football and his family. Perhaps he thinks that we should not be politicizing the gridiron, which does not care if you are a Democrat or Republican.

(Cont. From Prev. Page) it, but it appeared to be a little snakebitten. Development proposals fell apart and eventually the site became an eyesore, getting the Department of Licenses & Inspections involved, according to the indictment.

When Universal couldn’t sell the site back in 2012 due to zoning issues, Islam went to Johnson to solve the problem, 1st Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams said in a news conference announcing the indictments.

The problem was, they

paid him for his effort through his wife, Williams said.

“Two businessmen wanted a corrupt advantage,” she said. “They wanted to pay to play and the indictment charges that they found willing partners in Kenyatta Johnson and his wife, Dawn Chavous.”

According to the indictment, Johnson allegedly used “Council’s Little Helper” – Councilmanic Prerogative – to change the zoning on the property, allowing Universal to sell it for $3.7 million before its status as a blighted property made it subject to city forfeiture.

In exchange for getting this zoning change for

Universal, the indictment alleges that Chavous was given more than $66,000 in consulting contracts that were, in all actuality, bribes for Johnson.

In a press conference he held at the Wharton Recreation Center in Point Breeze after the indictments were announced, Johnson angrily denounced that.

I don’t need to find jobs for my wife,” he said. “Everyone who knows me knows I married up.”

“I find those charges to be wrong, offensive and downright sexist,” said Barry Gross, Chavous’ lawyer.

But while Johnson and Chavous were the names that brought out all the tele-

vision cameras, the bulk of the charges, especially the more serious ones, were aimed at Islam and Dawan.

The two men are charged with embezzlement, racketeering, filing false tax returns and other charges that have them looking at hundreds of years in jail if convicted, the indictment alleges.

But hey, the indictment alleges, the money for the bribes Islam and Dawan were allegedly handing out and the other things they were paying for like gym memberships and political fundraising had to come from somewhere. Since the two men had access to Universal’s bank accounts, they

allegedly took it from them to the tune of $463,000.

Patrick Egan, Johnson’s lawyer, says his client intends to fight the charges vigorously. So it appears that in addition to the trial that Councilmember Bobby Henon is facing sometime later this year, Johnson will continue the line of yearly visits to federal court.

Islam and Dawan turned themselves in to federal authorities last Thursday morning and Johnson and Chavous did the same on that Friday.

Should Islam and Dewan be convicted of all of the crimes they’ve been accused of, they face 330 years, and

285 years in prison, respectively. Johnson and Chavous both face 40 years in jail should they be convicted.

Under federal sentencing guidelines, you must serve 85% of your sentence before you can be considered for parole.

There has been no trial date set.

READ

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passed away. A long-time committeewoman in Ann BROWN’S Ward 40B, Gilda was quietly professional in her work in the old Board of Revision.

I want to say CONGRATS to: John BURN for 27 years at Abes Bauman PC; Lou GIORLA, three years at Corrections Consultation; Hon. Nelson DIAZ, two years at Nad Consulting; Mike CBIK, Esq. for 39 years at Cibik & Cataldo; Hon. Cherelle PARKER, City Council, four years; Joe DOUGHERTY on 17 years at Philly LABOR Radio! And to John O’CONNELL for 28 years at Elfant Wissahickon Realtors!

Ever get annoyed when TV news show a GRAINY video of the perpetrators and asks you to call police if

you see them?

GLENNY, the Haddon Heights, N.J. wild turkey that was euthanized by state fish and wildlife civil servants, deserved better. Glenny was seized by agents with NO NOTICE or appeal provided to the owner. It is pure arrogance by the GUARANTEED biweekly paycheck workers (paid for by taxpayers).

And after the demolition of the Historic HUGG House in Belmawr, N.J. while the town was negotiating in good faith to save it. Bulldozers arrived BEFORE DAWN with STATE POLICE escort. It was an act maybe akin to the Night of the Long Knives in Hitler Germany – yet NOTHING will happen to the public workers who took Glen-

ny’s life- or demolished the Hugg House. The have union protection from the State, and State indemnification for taxpayer lawsuits.

My American Legion Post honored Don GREENBAUM and Ernie GROSS. Ernie was a U.S. soldier that liberated Don from Dachau prison camp. They speak to students and are scheduled to talk at the Army Heritage Center (War College). Post members Dr. Zeff LASSINGER and his sister Lisette TARRAGANO, Esq. are on Earth because their dad, a soldier, liberated a prison train leaving Bergen-Belsen; their future mom was aboard. All is described in the book, “A Train near Magdeburg.”

(Cont. From Prev. Page) White introduced the guest speaker, REV. JOE WATKINS, pastor of the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church. Watkins is a resident of the Overbrook section of Philadelphia. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, as is his wife and two children.

Watkins currently is a

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

THE PAPER

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LEADERS READ: - THE PUBLIC RECORD

(Cont. From Prev. Page) plans to run for another office. Just do it.

The media chatter about LOCAL 98 Business Manager John DOUGHERTY visiting the White House several times GOES ON. It is actually a PLUS for Philly access, and recognition of Doc… A newsletter piece on “union thuggery” makes me wonder what brand of cigarettes the writer uses. This is OLDHEAD blather.... That newsletter in articles on moderates vs. progressives or millennials vs. reformers does not seem to make up its mind (?).

I was saddened to hear that Gilda RAGUSI had

CITY HALL SAM

(Cont. From Prev. Page) reform policy. An African American woman whose son was released touts, “Thank God for President Donald Trump.”

But local Democrats may still make headway.

Pennsylvanians and Philadelphians are notorious for voting both sides of the ticket. So all hope is not lost for the Dems.

Victorious Democrat CARMELLA JACQUINTO hosted an elegant swearing-in party at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 Union Hall on Columbus Boulevard. It was a white-tablecloth affair attended by Democratic chair BOB BRADY, JUDGE CHARLES HAYDEN, STATE SEN. JOHN SABATINA, retired JUDGE FELICE STACK, 58TH WARD LEADER JIM DONNELLY and his lovely wife TEESA, JUDGE DAN SULMAN, CHARLIE BERNARD, JUDGE CRYSTAL POWELL and Superior Court JUDGE MARIA McLAUGHLIN and her husband JONATHAN SAIDEL.

Law of the Theater: At any event, the people whose seats are farthest from the aisle arrive last.

Law of Logical Argument: Anything is possible if you don’t know what you are talking about.

Brown’s Law of Physical Appearance: If the shoe fits, it’s ugly.

Nick’s Law of Public Speaking: A closed mouth gathers no feet.

Wilson’s Law of Com-

mercial Marketing Strategy: As soon as you find a product you really like, they will stop making it.

Annie’s Law of Shopping: As soon as you buy something, someone will advertise it cheaper.

Doc Schnee’s Law: If you don’t feel well, make an appointment with your doctor; by the time you get there, you’ll feel better. If you don’t make an appointment, you’ll stay sick.

BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: Can your bankruptcy discharge be revoked?

Answer: A bankruptcy discharge wipes out your liability for most types of debt.

However, if you lie when filing for bankruptcy or you fail to follow the rules, then the court can revoke your discharge.

The bankruptcy trustee overseeing your case, the United States trustee representing the US Department of Justice, or your creditors can request that the court revoke your discharge. In a

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, there are several reasons they could ask for your discharge to be revoked, including: You committed bankruptcy fraud, you didn’t disclose or surrender all of your assets, you failed to turn over all documents in a bankruptcy audit, or you refused to follow court orders.

In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, an interested party can request the court to revoke your discharge if you used fraud to obtain your discharge.

In both cases, the interested party must request the discharge revocation within one year after the court

grants the discharge.

If the court revokes your bankruptcy discharge, then none of your debts are discharged and you still owe them. If bankruptcy fraud was committed, you may have to pay fines, forfeit assets, or face criminal prosecution.

To avoid all of this, it is best to be open and honest when disclosing information to your lawyer and the trustee.

Next week's question: Am I able to pay off my chapter 13 bankruptcy plan early?

MAYOR JIM KENNEY helped to launch a media blitz to press for more low- to moderate-income Philadelphians to sign up for the Earned Income Tax Credit. Estimates are that half of eligible Philadelphians – tens of thousands of families – do not claim EITC, leaving more than $100 million on the table. This would go a long way toward combating poverty in Philadelphia, said Kenney. There are seventeen free tax counseling sites around the city that will help applicants file for EITC.

Q

understanding BANKRUPTCY

BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY

PUBLIC RECORD CLASSIFIEDS

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

the WAFFLE MAN

number, you never get a busy signal and someone always answers.

Variation Law: If you change lanes, the one you were in will always move faster than the one you are in now.

Law of the Result: When you try to prove to someone that something won’t work, it will.

Law of Biomechanics: The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.

Push for EITC

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

Y

Law of Probability: The 15 probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.

Now, I don’t claim to be invincible against these laws of ultimate reality, for I know I have been trapped by a few of these laws.

Which ones? Well, that’s my business, but I am sure you too have been caught by these laws. Am I right?

Don’t tell me; it would be too embarrassing – to you.

o! Here we go again with these laws of ultimate reality. They were sent to me by Ginger, one of my readers. I think she found them on the internet after she experienced some of them.

Law of Mechanical Repair: After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you’ll have to pee.

Law of Random Numbers: If you dial a wrong

Adoption: ADOPTION: Loving dads wanting to adopt newborn; unconditional love and a life of opportunity

awaits.

Expenses paid. 845-260-1314, dadsadopt@gmail. com, www.thomasjordanadopt.com Auto or Wanted

Auto Auction Center 7000 State Road Philadelphia, PA 19135 www.aspiteauction.com

(215) 335-4884 Fax (215) 333-7793 In accordance with Chapter 73 of the Vehicle Code and authorization of the Department of Transportation, there will be a LIVE public auction of the below listed vehicles, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2020 @ 10:00 AM The location 7000 State Road, Philadelphia, PA. All sales final. Cash only.

Register & bid online @ www.aspiteauction.com STOCK # YEAR US-10413 1999 US-10492 2003 US-10498 2012 US-10517 2008 US-10530 2010 US-10539 2005 US-10555 2010 US-10562 2008 US-10571 2006 US-10586 2007 US-10595 2007 US-10598 2007 US-10651 2008 US-10583 2007

MAKE V.I.N. CONTROL US CARGO 4PL500D19X1031047 073742 TOYOTA 2T1BR32EX3C071922 073860 CHEVROLET 1G1ZD5E05CF362532 073183 JEEP 1J8FT47058D705436 073184 DODGE 1B3CB4HA8AD651402 073185 HONDA 1HGCM66555A062536 073263 MAZDA JM1BL1H61A1325363 073262 DODGE 2D8HN54P18R152557 073261 JEEP 1J4GR48K96C321103 073260 HYUNDAI KM8JN72D87U492791 073272 FORD 1FMEU73E17UB78010 073271 PONTIAC 2G2WP552971187237 073269 BMW WBANV93508CZ66150 073259 KIA KNAFG525277076457 073279

••• MANY MORE VEHICLES TO BE ADDED •••

Donate your car, truck or van. Help veterans find jobs or start a business.

Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation.

Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction. Operators are standing by! Call 1-866-9901557 Miscellaneous: Dental Insurance: Call Physicians

Mutual Insurance company for details.

NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. 855-890-4914 or http://www.dental50plus.com/Penn Ad# 6118 Miscellaneous: A PLACE FOR MOM: The nations Largest senior living referral service.

Contact our trusted, local experts today!

Our service is FREE/ no obligation. CALL 1-855-400-1032 Miscellaneous: Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify.

PLUS Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-569-3087 Wanted Buy or Trade: Freon Wanted: We pay CA$H for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient.

Certified Professionals. Call 312-8151973 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com

P H IL LY R E CO R D.C O M - 215 -755 -20 0 0

SMALL ADS BIG DEALS

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

16

Special Issue

F E B RUA RY 6, 2020

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

On February 13th, the Philadelphia Public Record will recognize the achievements of Philadelphia’s African American Leaders in our Black History Month Issue.

P H IL LY R E CO R D.C O M - 215 -755 -20 0 0

Please join us to honor their achievements.

Please send your ad to mbarrett@phillyrecord.com Melissa Barrett 215-755-2000 Ext. 5 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 * Philadelphia, PA 19107