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Vol. XI. No. 27 (Issue 492)
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July 2, 2009
No State Agreement Expected By Fourth
Underfunded Pensions Muddle City-Union Talks
Harrisburg shares much the same type of weather as does Philadelphia. So when it’s hot in this city, it’s usually as hot in the summer in Harrisburg, much to the chagrin of the members of the General Assembly. Odds are they will be spending a minimum of another week past
The delayed, but anticipated, Pew Charitable Trusts’ Philadelphia Research Initiative report, which finally came out this week, states, “Philadelphia’s City pension fund now has less than half the money it needs to make good on its obligation to past and current City work-
Brady Gets VA Grants
Congressman Robert A. Brady this week announced the award of $300,000 Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program grants to the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service Center and the Impact Services Corp., located in the 1st Congressional Dist. Brady said, “Both of these vet programs provide holistic support for homeless veterans, with the ultimate goal of finding meaningful employment for them. This includes job counseling, resume preparation, job development and employment placement. They are outstanding vet-service providers that offer on the ground support to meet the needs of our vets in need.” Nationally, HVRP grantees enroll thousands of homeless veterans annu(Cont. Page 39)
the Fourth in crunching the figures to come up with a budget the Governor and the Democrats can share with the Republicans. Unlike in Congress, the Republicans seem to be holding firm, staying with the party line of “no new taxes” and making points with much of their old base in the Commonwealth. (Cont. Page 2)
See Pages 7-13
Laborers To Move On Weatherization The vision of Sam Staten, Sr. continues to bear fruit. The former long-time business manager of Laborers District Council of Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia & Vicinity and Local 332 years ago decided Laborers needed a school of their own. It was built in Exton, Pa. Today, graduates from the huge (Cont. Page 39)
Welcoming Dr. Nicholas DePace’s New Heart Center Sep. 10, 2009
ers. The fund has not been this severely underfunded since 1996, and there is little prospect that the picture will brighten appreciably in the next few years.” The report, Quiet No More: Philadelphia Confronts the Cost of Employee Benefits, looks at the finances of pensions and health care for City workers at a time when the two topics are front and center both in Harrisburg and in City Hall. In the State legislature, the City is seeking approval of a plan that would help balance its budget over the next several years by delaying some contributions to the pension fund. In Philadelphia, contracts expired Jun. 30 for the four unions representing City workers, and both pensions and health care are key issues in the renewal talks. (Cont. Page 2)
No Forced Overtime For Nurses
State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione is reminding health-care providers a new law prohibiting forced overtime for nurses and other workers in the field goes into effect this week. “The new restrictions will not only help Pennsylvania address a growing shortage of care providers, but it will also improve patient safety by reducing medical errors brought on by fatigue and burn-out,” Tartaglione said. “It will take some adjustment and cooperation, but the result will be better staffing, lower costs, and improved outcomes.” (Cont. Page 39)
Nutter To Spend On Adult Literacy TOBACCO EXPRESS Philadelphia businesses are having an increasingly tough time of finding employees who can read and write at the level they need to qualify as employees. This came out in a report by the Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board. Funded by the Annie E. Casey (Cont. Page 39)
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page 2 The Public Record • July 2, 2009
Budget Crunching Affects Us All State At Standstill Pensions Roadblock In City Talks (Cont. from Page 1) The big problem is how to grapple with an over $3 billion revenue shortfall. Unless new money is found in the way of a tax increase in some area, major funding for many programs will need to be cut. There was some hope earlier this week, following a four-hour meeting among legislative leaders from both parties and the Governor that gave each side a chance to identify priorities and chances for compromise among half the State budget’s 800 line-item expenditures, which negotiators scrutinized line by line. The talks, held at the chief executive’s mansion a day before the budget’s statutory Jun. 30 deadline, were part one of a two-night negotiation designed less to reach compromise on large issues – such as education or broad-based tax increase – and more to scrutinize every dollar of spending in spending. But further negotiations lacked a “large-scale breakthrough”, although one leader called them “productive”. “I think the Governor showed some flexibility in some spending items,” he said. House Majority Leader Todd Eachus, who called the negotiations “very micro,” said many of biggest differences, such as health care and education spending, remain unchanged. According to House Speaker Keith McCall, the two sides are about $50 million closer on bottom-line spending after the meeting. That still leaves a wide chasm, too large to breach by the Fourth.
In the meantime, State employees may find they must work, but without pay checks, until the budget is passed … and that’s not sitting well with them. The House did what was expected in voting to expand the State’s AdultBasic health insurance program to cover more than 130,000 low-income adults. Currently, only 46,000 low-income people between the ages of 19 and 65 are insured through the program, and there are an additional 236,000 adults on a waiting list, said Brett Marcy, spokesman for Eachus. The vote was 104-96. All the opponents were Republicans save for former House Speaker Dennis O’Brien, who joined 103 Democrats in voting “yes”. Gov. Ed Rendell signed two bills into law this week which will help prevent mortgage fraud. SB 170 will prohibit a mortgage broker or originator from being the sole recipient of communications from lenders, and HB 985 shields mortgage-company employees who report illegal activity or take part in an investigation from retaliation. “Securing a home mortgage is the largest, most significant financial responsibility most people will ever take on,” the Governor said, “and these bills will help more Pennsylvanians secure their part of the American dream.” Secretary of Banking Steven Kaplan thanked the prime sponsors of each bill – Democratic Rep. David Kessler for HB 985 and Republican Sen. Mike Brubaker – for their time and effort.
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Offenders Need Services
PLEADING for improved prisoner-reentry services at Love Park rally was Greater Phila. Urban Affairs Coalition head Sharmain Matlock-Turner.
(Cont. from Page 1) Larry Eichel, director of PRI, explains, “The outcome of these proposals and negotiations will be pivotal for the City’s fiscal future, for the workers and retirees who rely on these benefits and for the taxpayers who foot the bill.” If the City gets approval from the legislature, Philadelphia’s total general-fund spending on pensions and health care, now at $830 million, is set to decline over the next two years before rising dramatically. By 2013, costs for the two items will approach $1.1 billion, including over $700 million in pension-related payments alone. At that point, all payments related to pensions and health care would represent more than one-quarter of the City’s $4 billion, general-fund budget. This cost figure of nearly $1.1 billion, drawn from City budget documents, is based on the assumption — made by budget officials — the City’s health-care costs will remain virtually unchanged for the next five years. If that assumption turns out to be wrong, the number could go higher. Mayor Michael Nutter has said the City needs to save a total of $25 million per year in benefit costs in new contracts with the municipal unions. Without these savings, he has said, there will be layoffs and additional service cuts. Union leaders have said they are not interested in reductions in pay or benefits. The pension situation has grown worse since the fall in the stock market. The funding level stood at 55% a year ago. How far it has fallen will become apparent in the coming months, when the City is required to make its annual report on the status of the fund. As of Mar. 31, the market value of the fund’s holdings had shrunk by 30% — from $4.66 billion to $3.26 billion — over 12
months. Although a sustained rally on Wall Street would improve the picture, City officials are projecting the funding ratio in the pension fund will remain below 50% at least through 2013. Over the years, the City has not put enough money into the pension fund to pay for the benefits it has promised its workers. That history of underpayment had put the fund in worse shape than most others even before the market crashed. The State Public Employee Retirement Commission has offered a little-noticed proposal that calls for a partial but permanent State takeover of every distressed municipal pension fund in the Commonwealth, including Philadelphia’s. There are about 75 of those funds. The takeover would remove pensions from the collective-bargaining process and leave the setting of pension benefits to State officials. Earlier this month, the City administration introduced a bill in City Council to create a new pension plan for future hires that would lower guaranteed benefits and would have some of the characteristics of a 401(k) plan. The City’s annual healthcare costs have declined on a year-to-year basis. That is because costs for Firefighters and Police Officers fell in fiscal year 2009 after having been high in 2008 — the result of one-time payments to settle arbitration disputes — and costs for other unionized workers stayed the same. Despite this, health-care costs paid by the City were 11% higher in the year ending Jun. 30 than they were two years ago, and 45% higher than five years ago. Those increases are higher than the rise in City spending as a whole, but comparable to long-term national trends for health-care costs. The Pew Report stated representatives of several of
the City’s public-employee unions who were contacted for the report say their independent health and welfare funds — which manage health care for members — have been able to avoid payroll deductions through costcontainment programs. In addition, they say, the level of benefits should be viewed in the context of total compensation. While comparisons are difficult, total compensation for Philadelphia’s City employees appears to be roughly in line with the average of state and local governments nationwide. A year ago, the City and its four unions — AFSCME District Councils 33 and 47, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, and Local 22 of the International Association of Fire Fighters — agreed to create a joint labor-management committee to study, discuss and release recommendations on best practices to contain health-care costs. The committee has not released any findings to date. DC 47 took a measured and supportive stance to the latest Pew Report, in contrast to an earlier occasion when the labor leadership felt the foundation had shown bias toward the administration. DC 47 commented, “The Pew Report presents some useful comparative data concerning benefits provided to Philadelphia public employees and public employees of other cities. As well as comparative data concerning union employees, non-union employees, and elected officials. “Health care and pension are very complicated subjects that deserve more sophisticated analysis than the 15page Pew Report accomplished, but DC 47 would point to some general statements from the Report with which the union agrees.” Union leaders cited with approval the following find-
ings in the Pew Report. “City workers get less than their peers elsewhere: They get only five years of retiree coverage, instead of the lifetime benefits in many other cities. “The health plans run directly by the City were costlier this year (2009) than two of the union-affiliated plans. (DC 47’s Plan was one of the two.)” “The average City retiree’s pension check is roughly in line with that in other major cities.” (DC 47 pensions are capped at the level of the day of retirement and include no COLA adjustments.) In the context of total compensation, “Philadelphia appears roughly in line with other local; and state governments nationwide….” DC 47 added in a statement released after the Report, “It should be pointed out all four union representatives to the City Board of Pensions voted unanimously to allow the City to make short and long-term changes to City Pension contributions that will defer more than $200 million dollars in pension payments to assist the city in presenting a balanced budget. “DC 47 does not believe that any legislative pension proposal(s) should reward the City and undermine employee benefits due to the decades-long systematic underfunding of the Pension Fund by the City. “Up to Jun. 30, DC 47 members have met every contractual agreement contained in City contracts. What the City agreed to in their past contracts, DC 47 members provided. “DC 47 has made it clear it is willing to sit down with the City to discuss the City contracts, but to date the City has made no specific health or welfare proposals. The City has made no pension proposal directly to the DC 47 negotiation team.”
Page 3
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
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page 4 The Public Record • July 2, 2009
Jury Commissioner Heading To Bench Jury Commissioner Roger Gordon, together with Joe Waters and Ken Powell, will be interviewed by a State Senate Committee for possible confirmation this week. The three have been appointed to the bench. Gordon is expected to fill the two-year vacancy left by a retiring judge. The other two, victorious in the primary, are expected to fill Municipal Court vacancies. Gordon’s appointment leaves a coveted political position open. But with it comes
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Colgan Brings Career Tour On Jul. 16-17 Democratic strategist Flavia Colgan is currently involved with a campaign called the Career Stimulus Package, which includes a nationwide RV tour called the Empowerment Tour. Colgan, an active political contributor on MSNBC as well as editorial-board member and columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News, says, “This is an awesome opportunity and I'm excited to be part of the campaign. So many folks would love to go back to school, but just can't afford it and that's where this campaign steps in to help. Many people who feel stuck in a rut with this difficult economy are now seeing new ways to try and improve their current situation.” The tour offers free careercoaching sessions as well as an opportunity to apply for a fulltuition online college scholarship. The Empowerment Tour comes to Philadelphia Jul. 16 and 17. For more information about the campaign, or to apply for a full-tuition online scholarship, visit their website at www.careerstimulus.com. Along with the tour, Colgan is creating a scholarship fund, to be administered by Scholarship America. Flavia Colgan can be contacted at flavia@empowermenttour.com or by calling 1 (877) 794-TOUR (8687).
the responsibility of maintaining one of the country’s top jury departments. The Philadelphia jury system has been emulated in many cities throughout the nation. The Board of Judges will vote their choice should Gordon’s appointment win Senate confirmation. Wright Seeks Aid Christopher Wright, former chief of staff to Councilman Jack Kelly, is seeking funds for his legal defense. The 20-year political veteran has gone through a 14-month Federal investigation. He is seeking funds to help with his upcoming sentencing and the appeal process to follow. He has exhausted all of his personal finances and those of his family. To make a contribution, send to “Chris Wright Legal Defense Fund”, 2720 Rhawn Street, PMB #173, Philadelphia, PA 19152. For further information call (215) 460-6712. Prisoners Pay Off For Pols Eight rural Pennsylvania House Representatives owe their seats to prisoners imported from Philadelphia and other cities – prisoners who aren’t even allowed to vote.
The Federal Census counts State and Federal prisoners as part of the local population, and that creates big problems for democracy in Pennsylvania, charges a new report by the nonprofit Prison Policy Initiative. The report explains the Census Bureau wants states to use its decennial population counts to draw legislative districts, but the Census Bureau’s method of counting prisoners as residents of the prison location violates State law. Crediting prisoners to the prison towns leads to unequal distributions of political power. Pennsylvania bars people in prison from voting, but State law says “no individual who is confined in a penal institution shall be deemed a resident of the election district where the institution is located.” Legislative Districts must be updated each decade to ensure each District contains the same number of residents. Unfortunately, the State relies on flawed Census Bureau counts, which ignore State law on residence, to draw its legislative districts. The report found 40% of the State’s prisoners are from Philadelphia, but 99% of the
State’s prison cells are located outside the city. The result is eight rural House districts that meet minimum population requirements only because prison inmates are included in the count. By using Census Bureau counts of prison populations to pad out rural legislative Districts, Pennsylvania is inflating the votes of residents who live near prisons in violation of the Supreme Court’s “one person, one vote” rule. “How the Census counts people in prison is a little-understood or -noticed problem,” said PPI researcher Peter Wagner, “but it’s important the public know how
the Census is diluting their votes.” The report suggests several reforms, including the Census Bureau’s changing its methodology and the State’s adjusting Census data before redistricting. The next Census will take place in 2010, and redistricting shortly thereafter. “If Pennsylvania and other states facing this problem don’t fix it now, they’ll have to wait until 2020 to draw fair Districts,” says Wagner. The report, Importing Constituents: Prisoners and Political Clout in Pennsylvania, is available at http://www.prisonersofthecensus.org/pennsylvania/.
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page 6 The Public Record • July 2, 2009
Gamble Spurs Playground National Judicial College Fetes Two
Daryl La Fountain Candidate In 2010 For District 175
On left, ATTORNEY and community activist Damon Roberts, left, congratulates Ken Gamble, whose Universal Companies sparked transformation of a vacant lot into a splendid playground. On right, S. PHILA. music mogul Kenny Gamble, right, surveys new playground and organic garden built on Catherine Street with generous donation by child-oriented philanthropist David Pincus, shown talking with State Sen. Anthony Williams, left. State Representative
RONALD G. WATERS 191st Leg. District 6027 Ludlow Street, Unit A
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STATE SENATOR
LEANNA M. WASHINGTON DISTRICT OFFICE
1555-D Wadsworth Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 (215) 242-0472 Fax: (215) 753-4538 WEB SITE www.senatorwashington.com
The Philadelphia Courts hosted the National Judicial College as it held its widely popular course on Dispute Resolution attended by 40 Judges from all over the country. In conjunction with the course, the College's Board of Visitors, which also met here, provided the out-of-town Judges a full opportunity to experience Philadelphia and its many cultural amenities. This included a dinner at the Constitution Center during which the NJC recognized two Philadelphians who have made long-term contributions to the College: The Hon. Alfred DiBona, Jr., Senior Judge of the
Councilman Wm.
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Court of Common Pleas, and Edward Madeira of Pepper Hamilton. The 1st Judicial Dist. was also recognized by the College DISTRICT OFFICE 2749 N. 5th St. • 215-291-5643
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NATIONAL Judicial College honored two Phila. Judges while meeting here. From left are honoree Edward W. Madeira, Jr., Esq., Mayor Michael Nutter; President Judge Pamela Pryor Dembe; honoree Judge Alfred J. DiBona, Jr.; Chief Justice Ronald D. Castille, and Hon. William F. Dressel, president of National Judicial College.
State Rep.
Dennis O’Brien 169th District 9811 Academy Rd Phila. PA 19114
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ROBERT C. DONATUCCI 185th District 1809 Oregon Ave, Phila., PA 19145
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for its leadership role as a Court, and for the efforts that it has taken in welcoming the NJC to Philadelphia this year and in 2007. The National Judicial College is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing judicial education and professional development for Judges in the United States and abroad.
JOHN SABATINA JR. 174th District State Representative 8100 Castor Ave Phila, PA 19152 Hours: 9am to 5pm Telephone: 215-342-6204
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Whether you go down to the shore or celebrate in Philadelphia, our nation's birthplace, I wish all Philadelphians a happy and safe July 4th celebration. If you are looking for something special to do, Philadelphia has a number of great historical locations and events celebrating our nation's birth including Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House, and the National Constitution Center.
Parkwood Shopping Center 12361 Academy Road, Phila., PA 19154, 215-281-2539
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American flags. We imported $3.4 million of them, of which $3 million came from China. We do manufacture American flags, but exported just over $500,000 worth, the bulk to Belgium. But with the rest of our celebration, especially the cookouts, pig out! In July 1776, an estimated 2.5 million people were living in the newly independent nation. That has now grown to 307 million on this July 4th and we’re just as hungry as they were back then. You can rev up the economy with your cookouts. More than one in four cookouts will feature hot dogs and pork sausages. Iowa, the Hawkeye State, reputedly started the cookouts. For good reason: It is home to 19.3 million hogs and pigs, representing more than one-fourth of the nation’s total. North Car-
olina (9.4 million) and Minnesota (7.3 million) were the runners-up. Chances are good the beef hot dogs, steaks and burgers on your backyard grill came from the Lone Star State, which accounts for about one-sixth of the nation’s total production coming in at 6.8 billion lb. And if the beef did not come from Texas, it very well may have come from Nebraska (4.7 billion lb.) or Kansas (4.1 billion lb.). As popular as chicken at a barbecue is, only six states enjoyed $1 billion or greater between December 2006 and November 2007 in revenue from broiler chickens. There is a good chance one of these states — Georgia, Arkansas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi or Texas — is the source of your barbecued chicken. The odds are four to one your side dish of baked
beans originated from North Dakota, which produced 39% of the nation’s dry, edible beans in 2008. Another popular Fourth of July side dish is corn on the cob. Florida, California, Georgia and New York together accounted for 61% of the sweet corn produced nationally in 2008.
Potato salad and potato chips are popular food items at Fourth of July barbecues with half of the nation’s spuds produced in Idaho or Washington State. The lettuce in your salad or on your burger has a 75% chance it came from California, while 70% is what California and Florida
contributed to the cookout in the way of tomatoes, with ketchup mostly coming in from California. Florida, the state that led the nation in watermelon production last year (861 million lb.) should continue to do so this year, followed by California, Texas and Georgia.
State Senator
Christine M. Tartaglione
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. But celebrating that event today has proven costly to our trade deficit. As always, this most American of holidays will be marked by parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues across the country. So if you want to prove your patriotism, change the way you celebrate the Fourth. You can help reduce our trade deficit by not buying fireworks. The value of fireworks imported from China in 2008 amounted to $193 million, representing the bulk of all US fireworks imported ($202 million). Our fireworks exports were just $28.1 million, with Australia the big buyer at $5.8 million. The same goes with
Page 7
Nixing Fireworks, Flag-Waving Can Reduce Trade Deficit
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page 8
concept of American citizenship. The Civil War, under the leadership of Abraham Lincoln, created the essentials of American democracy for all of our citizens. The Lincoln 200 Bicentennial Celebration of Lincoln’s birth year has benefited greatly from the Civil War Museum of Philadelphia, which has the largest and most significant collection of Union artifacts in the country. You will be able to see a few of the thousands of artifacts from the Civil War Museum collection as part of the Lincoln 200 festival, but the entire priceless collection is in jeopardy right now.
It will be a great tragedy if the city of Philadelphia were to lose its invaluable collection. Right now, the collection is in storage, having been promised a new home in Independence National Park, but the State funding was withdrawn because of the dire state of the economy. Because Philadelphia and the Civil War Museum collection were to have played a central role in the upcoming Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, I urge the legislature, the Governor and our citizens to push for building a new museum for the Civil War collection right here in our city.
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
by State Rep. James R. Roebuck, Chairman Pennsylvania House Education Committee As we prepare to launch Philadelphia’s celebration of Lincoln 200, commemorating the Bicentennial of the birth of President Abraham Lincoln, we are also preparing to observe the Fourth of July, the founding of our country. The Declaration of Independence, as revolutionary a document as it was, held no meaning for a significant portion of the population: namely, African Americans. The Civil War changed all that – and it is far more important in defining the true
Page 9
Launching Lincoln 200 On The Fourth
PPA Holds Meter Rate Increase, Cuts Some Philadelphia Parking Authority Executive Director Vince Fenerty announced a planned increase in parkingmeter rates, scheduled to take effect yesterday, will not be implemented at this time. According to Fenerty, “Rates that were scheduled to increase to $3 per hour in the core of Center City Philadelphia (4th to 20th, Arch to Locust Streets) will remain at $2 per hour. "The most recent parking surveys confirmed the rate adjustments implemented in January have achieved the goal of creating more parking opportunities. As a result, we do
not believe it is necessary to implement the second phase of the approved rate adjustment at this time. "Similarly, the parking vacancies in the fringe area of Center City (Spring Garden to Bainbridge Streets, between the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, except those blocks in the core), are now higher than we anticipated. In order to achieve the proper balance, we will lower the hourly rate in the areas of lowest demand to $1.50 per hour. "Affordable, convenient parking is fundamental to the economic vitality of Center City. We will continue to
Philadelphia Residents Take To Road For Fourth Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “Ongoing uncertainty about the strength of the economy, joblessness and sagging household incomes are making people think twice about traveling for Fourth of July, especially if they are already committed to another vacation.” “Although with gas prices finally falling, some travelers may decide to take a trip to the shore at the last minute,” added Rossi. Gas prices in the Philadelphia area had risen 11% between Memorial Day and Jun. 26 before starting to fall.
St. Maron’s Church
“10,000 Prize Big Buck$ Raffle” A total of 29 cash prizes will be given away! Prizes will be raffled off at the St. Maron Feast Day Luncheon on February 7th, 2010 at St. Maron Hall 1013 Ellsworth St., Philadelphia, PA (Winners need not be present to win)
Only 1000 tickets will be sold with a grand prize up to $10,000.00, so purchase your ticket(s) soon for a chance to win one of the following cash prizes:1 Grand Prize @ $10,000.00 (or 20%) 1 Prize @ $5,000.00 (or 10%) 1 Prize @ $2,000.00 (or 4%) 2 Prizes @ $1,000.00 (or 2%) 6 Prizes @ $500.00 (or 1%) 8 Prizes @ $250.00 (or 0.5%) 10 Prizes @ $100.00 (or 0.2%)
Drawing on St. Maron Feast Day Luncheon, Feb. 7, 2010, at
St. Maron Hall, Philadelphia, PA Winner need not be present to win. Donation: $50.00
Raffle ticket donation is $50.00 and can be purchased at St. Maron Church, or by contacting the following:
Anne Dallegro Phone: 856-858-0877, email: tayoun1009@comcast.net Terry Koway Phone: 215-462-2525, email: tmk462@hotmail.com
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As another three-day summer weekend approaches, AAA Mid-Atlantic projects nearly 350,000 Philadelphia-area residents will travel 50 miles or more from home this Fourth of July holiday. That’s a 0.4% increase compared to 2008 – essentially flat, or the same as last year. Nationally, AAA is projecting an almost 3% decline in Fourth of July holiday auto travel, with 37.1 million Americans traveling 50 miles or more by auto and air. “Philadelphia area travel this holiday is essentially flat this year,” said Catherine L. Rossi,
monitor the available parking to be sure we are setting rates that encourage people to come to Center City while insuring sufficient available parking to make that trip convenient. Rate adjustments will be made as needed to maintain that balance,” Fenerty said. The PPA will also begin installing new multi-space meter kiosks beginning today.
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Our Opinion ... A Record That Matters
ANOTHER OPINION Del. Loophole Must Close crisis has steadily deepened. Many of my Senate colleagues have now joined in my effort, as we try to make the Bill part of the final budget package. If the legislature fails to modernize our corporate tax laws, every Pennsylvania citizen will need to make up the difference through potential increases to sales, property and State income taxes along with drastic cuts to services. Across the State, residents have already paid a high price. I can remember a day when the streets were lined with small neighborhood businesses and were crowded with shoppers into the night. While there are several factors that have contributed to the extinction
of those hardware, officesupply and toy stores, there is one that we could have – and should have – prevented. Large, multi-state corporations have been able to create Delaware subsidiaries to which they pay exorbitant rent and royalties so they can write off those expenses on their State tax forms. Today, less than one-quarter of Pennsylvania corporations pay any State income tax. The State Dept. of Revenue estimates half of the companies that pay no tax are using Delaware subsidiaries to hide income from Pennsylvania. Small-business owners had neither the staff nor the time to participate in this shell game, and were forced to pay the nation’s highest corporate net income tax. Given all of the other advantages that scale brings to large retail chains, preserving a tax system that gives them another is unconscionable. My bill would force corporations to combine the income of all subsidiaries and portion out Pennsylvania’s share for corporate-tax purposes. This change would
not only level the playing field for businesses, but it would also allow us to gradually reduce corporate income taxes for those who have paid more than their share for decades. So far, 23 states – a majority of states that impose corporate income taxes – have already closed this loophole, and research shows those which have done so tend to have higher rates of entrepreneurship. As Pennsylvania faces tough choices that come with a deep deficit, ending this corporate tax loophole can help mitigate the damage done by drastic budget cuts. Working families can have little faith in a State government that allows them to suffer for the shifty accounting practices of wealthy corporations. It is time to assure those families, and the owners of small businesses, we are willing to take the steps needed to ensure tax tricks and dodges will not be tolerated, and we are doing all we can to maintain critical services. Sen. Tartaglione is Democratic Chair of the Senate Labor & Industry Committee.
Jul. 11- Juniata Golf Club, L & Cayuga Sts., sponsors Independence Day Scramble, starting 8 a.m. $65 per player. 36-hole scramble. Food, prizes, after-golf party with DJ. For information call Mike Fox (215) 743-4060. Bring your spouse. Proceeds go to Juniata Golf Fdn. Jul. 18- "Tavern Crawl and Block Party" 1-8 p.m . benefits Police & Fire Memorial Plaque Placement Program & P.O. John Marynowitz, hosted by taverns of Port Richmond. Registration at Richmond & Tioga Sts., 12:30 p.m. (ID req.) $20.
T-shirt & wristband. Jul. 25- Brady Bunch Beach Party at Keenan’s, 113 Old New Jersey Ave., N. Wildwood, N.J., 4-8 p.m. $35. Pay at door, or call Democratic City Committee (215) 241-7805. Jul. 25- Bartlett Jr. HS Reunion at Galdo’s Catering, 20th & Moyamensing Ave. Tickets $55. For info Claudia Gordon (267) 971-3768 or Diane Davis (215) 498-7201. Jul. 25- 9th Annual Birthday celebration “Mardi Gras Under Stars” for State Sen. LeAnna M. Washington at Belmont Mansion, 200 Belmont Mansion Dr., 6-11 p.m. Contribution $300. Checks payable to Friends of LeAnna M. Washington, PO Box 27013, Phila., PA 19118.
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by State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione Over six years ago, I introduced legislation to close the infamous “Delaware Loophole” to create a fairer corporate-tax environment for Pennsylvania’s families and small businesses. So far, large corporations have avoided the legislation as they have eluded paying their fair share of corporate taxes. With the State facing a 2009 deficit of more than $3 billion, and small businesses being counted upon to lead the economic recovery, which can prevent future deficits, my legislation targeting the loophole is not an option, but a necessity. Since I introduced SB 227 in February, the State’s budget
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
Birthdays are a kind of personal record we always hope we’ll break again next year. Just sticking around won’t get most of us into the Guinness Book of World Records, but it is still pretty satisfying. The United States of America is about to celebrate its 233rd birthday. That doesn’t make it the oldest nation on earth (that would be China, now claiming its 4,079th) or the youngest either (hats off to East Timor, which turned seven this spring). But their history is not ours to live. We must make the most of ourselves as a people and as a nation. Aside from age, other things in life go up and down. Challenges always face every nation, including ours, and our best test is how we deal with ours.We have a right to reflect with pride on our diverse cohesiveness – our union – on this Fourth of July. America is a land of strength and a land of peace. It is a land of order and a land of opportunity. It is a land of growth and a land of wisdom. In giddy boom years, it can be all too easy to confuse national greatness with wealth. But an economic recession invites us to consider and celebrate more sober virtues. Community, courage, prudence and justice are enduring American values. They lie at the core of patriotism and will bring us through hard times as well as good ones.
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pursue their higher-education degree under the requirements in place prior to their military leave if their graduation requirements have changed while they were deployed. No matter how things had changed at the school they were attending before active duty began, they would risk no loss of academic credits earned, scholarships or
grants. “Many of our National Guardsmen and women are serving actively overseas for long durations. They are giving up their time and, in many cases, their education,” Stack said. “They should not be educationally penalized for their services.” SB 891 would allow all military judge advocates and
paralegal noncommissioned officers to perform notarial acts when they are on duty or at training. “This legislation would make the deployment and other administrative processes more convenient for the military and our servicemen and women who need their paperwork notarized,” Stack explained.
PLBC Honors War 2 Tuskegee Airmen
STATE REP. Ronald Waters, chairman of Penna. Legislative Black Caucus, presents citations to Tuskegee Airmen who served in World War II. Looking on is State Rep. Bill DeWeese.
Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus Chairman State Rep. Ronald G. Waters and members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly paid tribute last week to Philadelphia residents who served as fighter pilots in the famous Tuskegee Airmen unit during World War II. Waters presented the honorees with citations from the House of Representatives during a ceremony on the
House floor and State Sen. Shirley Kitchen presented them with citations on the Senate floor. The Tuskegee Airmen were members of the first African American flying unit in US military history. They trained at the segregated Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Ala. in the 1940s. “I am very proud of what these military men have accomplished,” said Waters.
State Sen. Mike Stack applauds the Philadelphia Historical Commission’s decision to register the Holmesburg branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia as a historic site. “Holmesburg library has a long and rich tradition in Northeast Philadelphia, and this designation recognizes how special and how important this place is to the Holmesburg community,” Stack said. “I’m proud of the Friends of the Holmesburg Library and the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia for all their hard work in helping the commission realize the importance of this truly historic site.” The Commission approved listing Holmesburg, Haddington, Logan and Kingsessing libraries as registered historical sites, which means they are protected and cannot be altered or demolished without the Historical Commission’s approval.
The Holmesburg library was established in 1867, and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated funds for the current building, which opened in 1907. Today, the library serves 40,000 families each year and provides 100,000 items, including books, DVDs, computer access and more. “On any given day, the library is filled with enthusiastic children with stories under their arms, adults perusing the shelves and Internet users,” Stack said. “It’s such a welcoming and popular library that the community utilizes a great deal.” Last year, the City of Philadelphia tried to close Holmesburg – and 10 other library branches – due to its mounting deficit. However, after citywide protests including Stack and Holmesburg residents, a court ruling blocked the libraries’ closures.
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
Bills sponsored by State Sen. Mike Stack that would protect active-duty members’ status in college, and allow certain members of the military notary privileges, were approved by the Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee. SB 825 would allow members of the National Guard returning from active duty to
Holmesburg Library On Historical Registry
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Stack Bills Aid Returning Veterans
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My trunk got bent out of shape the other day by cocaine-laced peanuts. I apologize to JOE MURPHY, who was endorsed by Republican City Committee in 2009 primary and 2007 primary. To describe him as a “non-party person”, as I did in a fit of confusion, is to deny he has been a committeeman under the leadership of WARD LEADER WALT VOGLER. Who could be more Republican, with his lineage? Murphy’s dad was a Judge and his sister is a Judge – all Republicanendorsed. He has also been active in supporting other Republican candidates who have sought citywide office. RAHM EMANUEL ran into the Oval Office and hastily reported to the President two Brazilian soldiers had been killed in Afghanistan the other day. BARACK OBAMA looked shocked. He put his face down on his desk between his hands. “My goodness, this is absolutely terrible news!” he cried. “What are we going to do, Rahm?” His Chief of Staff was somewhat surprised at the President’s reaction but was moved nonetheless. “Answer me Rahm! How am I going to explain this?” Emanuel now had a puzzled look about him. “OK Rahm. First question: How many is a brazillion exactly?” Does anyone else get the feeling between Obama, NANCY PELOSI and HARRY REID, we’re a few credits short of a 2nd-grade math degree? Million, billion, trillion, brazillion … it’s all good, right? Unfortunately, this despicable spending spree with your hard-earned money is going to quickly bankrupt our nation. We are literally killing the goose that laid the golden egg. Between the fake “stimulus” bill (have you seen any stimulus money yet?), the bogus global-warming bill (another left-wing scam) that will dou-
Last week, I was informed in no uncertain terms I’m no longer a kid. That’s not really news to me. I mean, heck, I turned 45 in May. I sometimes have trouble raising my right arm when it rains or gets cold outside because shoulder separations never completely heal, and I can no longer eat spaghetti for breakfast because it causes heartburn. But it wasn’t until I saw the obituaries last week that it was reinforced to me that me and my younger days have indeed parted company. Last Tuesday, Ed McMahon, the longtime sidekick for Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show” passed away at 86. McMahon had been the host of “Star Search” after Carson left late-night television and had spent more time in the news recently for his financial problems than for anything else, but he was still a respected icon and a symbol of all of those television shows that were on so late I had to sneak into the living room after my parents were asleep to watch them. On Thursday, Farrah Fawcett, one of the stars of one of my twin brother’s favorite shows “Charlie’s Angels”, lost her battle with anal cancer. She was 62. While she made her mark doing “Jiggle TV”, Fawcett went on stretch her muscles by playing a battered wife who made the ultimate escape from her abuser (The Burning Bed) and a rape victim who turns the tables on her attacker (Extremities). She was nominated for an Emmy award for both roles. She made a documentary about her experiences with cancer entitled Farrah’s Story. Had the week stopped there, it would have been enough. (Cont. Page 36)
Yo! Here we go again, with a quiz that was sent to me by a traveling companion, Don. I know it will bring back some nice memories to you as they did to me. If not – well, you are just too young to remember. While this program was on you used a piece of ‘plastic film’ on the picture tube and some crayons to get involved in the plot with its star –Winky Dink and You. Chief Thunder Thud and Flub-A-Dub were characters on this show – Howdy Doody. This purple hound introduced Yogi Bear - Huckleberry Hound. For 40 years Miss Sally entertained and educated kids with this show with her magic mirror – Romper Room. Miss Francis opened this educational kid’s show with a hand ringing a bell – Ding Dong School. One of my favorite shows starred a one-toothed, seasick sea dragon; his buddy; a charming lady; and their friends – Kukla, Fran and Ollie. Pre-dating Kermit was Froggy who came to television from a popular radio show. The sponsor featured a kid and a dog in a shoe - Smilin Ed’s Gang. To start the cartoons, Smilin Ed (Andy Devine) would say, “Plunk your magic twanger Froggy.” Clarabelle, that silent clown with a horn and a seltzer bottle, changed shows after Howdy Doody. On this show his name was the title of the show. It premiered the same day as The Mickey Mouse Club – Captain Kangaroo. Buttercup, Bullet and Nellie Belle were popular characters on this kid’s cowboy show – as popular as the stars of the show – The Roy Rogers Show with Dale Evans. One of the most popular kid’s shows is set on a street that is named after an herb. It stars (among many others) a large yellow bird of an unknown species and a character that lived in a garbage can – Sesame Street, of course. And here is a real stumper. On what sitcom might you hear phrases like “Hello, Mrs. Bloom” and characters named Uncle David and her husband Jacob? The Molly Goldberg show, Life with Mama. One of the characters who played the violin on “Life with Mama” had a spinoff show that didn’t last long. It was called – Menasha the Magnificent. How did he explain how to spell his name? It went something like this: “Menasha, M as in ‘Menasha’, E as in ‘Menasha’ – Menasha.”
Snooper’s F.Y.I. Files: HON. BABETTE JOSEPH, Penna. State Representative, is pleading with all of us, whether you live in SOUTH PHILLY, WEST PHILLY, NORTH PHILLY or even THE GREAT NORTHEAST, to PLEASE fill out completely your CENSUS forms. She stated, “Any information you provide on these census forms is really PRIVATE and PROTECTED and NO AGENCY can get them.” These official CENSUS FORMS are very EASY, IMPORTANT and SAFE! They will determine how much REPRESENTATION we’ll have here in the State of Pennsylvania, so please fill them out. Seen recently as a featured speaker on Channel 35-1 MIND TV; she was really great! I must congratulate her on a well-thought-out presentation. Snooper’s Special Alert: Many of you will probably just forget whatever you have just read here, but I warn all of you, at least read it all. RICHARD ZOHN, former employee of The Philadelphia Water Dept., is very concerned about the efforts being made to CLEAN UP the Schuylkill River. Think about it, because whether you want to believe it or not, this is our one great source for DRINKING WATER. He is pleased to observe the WILDLIFE seems to be returning, because he has already spotted a few EAGLES, along with a lot of other creatures, and this is a very encouraging sign. He did observe shopping carts, old tires, and yes, even dead bodies, in the Schuylkill River, though, and that’s not acceptable. After all, it’s our drinking water. This CLEANUP is very IMPORTANT! Snooper’s MEDIA NEWS: Last week, we here in Philadelphia, besides losing the voices of HARRY KALAS and GARY PAPA, now hear news of the death of IRV HOMER. (Cont. Page 35)
Philadelphia is a locus for so many historical sites of interest. Yet it is amazing how many Philadelphians have not visited these wonderful historical sites. Listed below are 10 venues, most which are free. See how many can get a perfect score: 1. The Betsy Ross house; 2. Ben Franklin’s grave; 3. The Atwater-Kent museum; 4. The Liberty Bell; 5. Independence Hall; 6. Carpenter’s Hall; 7. The Tiffany Mural at 6th & Walnut Streets; 8. Billy Penn’s hat atop City Hall; 9. The Constitution Center; 10. The Mint To get to the top of Billy Penn’s hat, you take a City Hall elevator to the 7th floor and follow the signs to an elevator at the foot of the tower. That takes you up to a breath-taking view of the city in all directions. Cost: free. Ben Franklin’s grave at the corner of 5th & Arch Streets is also free; in fact, some people leave pennies on the tombstone, so if you are a little short, you can pick a few up as souvenirs. That is right across the street from the Mint, which has a wonderful souvenir shop with uncirculated sets of coins and proofs. Just across the street is the Constitution Center, which has a first-rate cafeteria with inexpensive meals and lots of lectures and actors playing the part of Colonial figures. That is not free. Right around the corner is the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The Tiffany Mural is just down the street. It is a 60-foot-long mural whose images are formed by different sizes and shapes of colored glass. That’s free. The Atwater-Kent Museum is just a block away. Suggestion to Mayor Mike Nutter: After we start getting the gambling-tax monies in, he should order the blocking off of some corridors of City Hall with security at each end and display on the walls some of the paintings that are currently in the basement of the Art Museum. They are there because there is no wall space available to display them. In any event, some Philadelphians take advantage of the weekend bargains offered by the hotels in the Society Hill area and use that as a base for sight-seeing. Also in this area are some tony movie theaters. It might help the experts Mayor Nutter has imported to help run the City if they were to take this test and see how many got 10 out of 10 – or, being realistic, got one out of 10.
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Chinese Cheers For GOP Thomas Wins William Penn High Battle
MEI REN of Fujian Association greets Republican candidate for Controller Al Schmidt at Loyal Opposition meeting at Joy Tsin Lau in Chinatown.
VISITING Phila.’s Chinatown from Western Penna. were Supreme Court candidate Judge Joan Orie Melvin, 4th from left, and her sister State Sen. Jane Orie, 6th from left.
State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas’ campaign to keep William Penn HS open ended successfully this past week. Superintendent Dr. Arlene Ackerman, School District of Philadelphia, formally withdrew her proposal to close William Penn HS at a School Reform Commission meeting. In February, the School District of Philadelphia presented a plan to close William Penn HS following the 200910 school year. Thomas spearheaded the
Coalition for the Revitalization of William Penn HS to stop the district from closing the school and to urge renovation of the facility, which has been a cornerstone of the North Philadelphia community for nearly 100 years. Thomas has testified at several meetings of the School Reform Commission in opposition to William Penn HS’s planned closure. At yesterday's hearing, Thomas urged the school district to reconsider the proposal. "Do the right thing," he said. "Invest, not divest in the children of North Philadelphia." Thomas, who attended the meeting, thanked the community coalition for uniting and working hard for many months to keep a state-of-the-
art school in North Philadelphia. Thomas pledged he and State Sen. Lawrence Farnese, who also supported the coalition's efforts, would continue to assist with efforts to renovate the high school. Thomas said William Penn alumni, parents, students, local clergy, elected officials, community advocates and neighborhood residents united to support William Penn HS and speak out against closing the school, which sits on 13 acres in North Philadelphia. The School District of Philadelphia must now decide whether to renovate the current building or to build a new facility at the current location of the high school. Thomas said he plans to stay involved with that process as it moves forward.
Youth See Saw Works UT O B A ASK ULL OUR F R A 30 YE TEE AN GUAR
LICE N INSU SED REGI RED STER FR ED ROO EE ESTIM FIN AT E RTIF S ICAT E
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HISTORICAL Society of Tacony arranged student tour of old Disston Saw Works. Here Joseph Dukes and Ring Lardner explain this storied 19th-century factory.
CITY WIDE SERVICE ALL TYPES OF
ROOFING
THIS PLACE MATTERS! Say the students after learning their city’s industrial history. Photos by Lou Iatarola
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SOME of the nine tons of food donated by SEPTA riders to Philabundance for distribution to the needy.
SEPTA’s official “Stop Hunger at Your Station” bus, delivered the goods to Philabundance’s Berks Street facility. SEPTA’s two-week Philabundance food drive ran from Jun. 1 through Jun. 15. SEPTA’s nearly 1 million daily riders, 9,000 employees and others in the community responded in overwhelming force. Donations of non-perishable canned and boxed goods overflowed at 45 dropoff locations throughout the SEPTA system. SEPTA launched the food drive in response to critical shortages at food banks. The economic crisis has forced more families to turn to organizations such as Philabundance to help them put healthy meals on the table, putting a severe strain on supplies at these food cupboards. The demand is only expected to increase as students who rely on school-provided meals begin summer recess. SEPTA would like to thank all those who contributed to this successful two-week push to help Philabundance as it strives to feed hungry residents in need. For more information, visit www.septa.org.
JOE CASEY and Philabundance Director Martha Buccino inspect cans of food donated by SEPTA Riders during two week campaign.
State Rep. Brendan F. Boyle has opened a new constituent-service office at 7215 B Rising Sun Avenue in the Burholme section of Philadelphia, one block south of Cottman Avenue. Constituents are encouraged to call the office at (215) 342-1700 or visit from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, or from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
SEPTA fulfilled its promise to help feed local residents in need by delivering over nine tons of food collected in just two weeks during its first-ever Philabundance food drive. According to Philabundance, SEPTA collected 18,560 pounds of food during the campaign – making this the second-largest Philabundance food drive of the year so far. The food was weighed after a convoy of trucks, led by
Boyle Opens Rising Sun Ave. Constituent Office
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SEPTA Delivers Nine Tons Of Donated Food
Fridays to receive help with any State-related issue. Boyle also encouraged residents to continue using his existing office at 14230 Bustleton Avenue in Somerton. The office phone number is (215) 676-0300 and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays.
GIVE THE GIFT OF NOSTALGIA Give the 5 Waffleman Books Memories they’ll always Cherish. They will remember you everytime they read them!
Call: Joe “Bag-A Donuts”
215-463-2632
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WANTED SPORTS CARDS & MEMORABILIA Huggins & Scott Auctions is looking to buy or consign your VINTAGE Sports Cards & Memorabilia + older Americana type collectibles incl Toys, Games, Trains, Comics, Coins, Political Items, etc. for our next World Wide Internet Auction WE TAKE IT ALL & WE SELL IT ALL. Call Steve at 215-530-4365 to discuss your collection or to get a free catalog Visit our web page at: www.hugginsandscott.com
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Union Labor...
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Building it right for a better and stronger community!
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW Term No. 090302371 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs of Bernard McTeague, Deceased, DEIRDRE DORIS & Rosemary Doris, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of the Estate of Bernard McTeague, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants TO: Unknown Heirs of Bernard McTeague, Deceased MORTGAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 2994 Welsh Road, Philadelphia, PA 19152. 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, MIDFIRST BANK, 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. 090302371, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 2994 Welsh Road Philadelphia, PA 19152, whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. 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. COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700 PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION One Reading Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-238-6333 Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff Goldbeck McCafferty & McKeever, P.C. Suite 5000, Mellon Independence Center 701 Market St. Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW Term No. 002216 April 2005 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ACQUIRER OF CERTAIN ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK F/K/A WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA FROM THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION ACTING AS RECEIVER, Plaintiff vs. John Doe ET AL, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant TO: John Doe & JACQUELINE P. ROMEO, MORTGAGORS AND REAL OWNERS, DEFENDANTS, whose last known address is 3005 S 74th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19153. 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, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ACQUIRER OF CERTAIN ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK F/K/A WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA FROM THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION ACTING AS RECEIVER, 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. 002216 April 2005, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3005 S 74th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19153, whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. 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. COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700 PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION One Reading Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-238-6333 Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff Goldbeck McCafferty & McKeever, P.C. Suite 5000, Mellon Independence Center 701 Market St. Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322
City Wide Youth Honor Graduates
PRETTY LADIES welcomed politicos of all stripes to annual seashore season opening gala hosted by Barbara and Lisa Marie Deeley in Anglesea. From left are Alissa McCann, Lisa, Barbara, and Terry Butcher.
ENJOYING Deeley hospitality were SEPTA’s Fran Kelly and his wife Michelle, Controller Alan Butkoviz and PPA’s Carl Ciglar.
IN ATTENDANCE at the Sea Side Gala hosted by Deeleys were neighbors and friends from Anglesea.
Kitchen Honors Juneteenth Day State Sen. Shirley Kitchen’s resolution recognizing Jun. 19, 2009 as “Juneteenth National Freedom Day” in Pennsylvania was approved unanimously by the State Senate. Juneteenth National Freedom Day commemorates f Juneteenth Day, in which slaves in Texas learned they had been set free. It is the oldest African American holiday observance in the United States, originating in Galveston, Tex., on Jun. 19, 1865. The holiday also commemorates the survival of 11.5 million Africans, who endured the trans-Atlantic journey — known as the Middle Passage — on slave ships from their homeland to this countiy, starting in the 17th century. “It’s important we honor this event, which reminds us all of the impact of slavery, the abolition movement and African American emancipation in the United States,” Kitchen said. “It’s also a reminder that we Americans are so fortunate to live freely in this country. We are free to express ourselves and prosper, no matter
what our background is. We often take these freedoms for granted, but there are many countries whose citizens do not have these rights.
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The Public Record • July 2, 2009
CITY WIDE YOUTH Program Director Bill Mackey and Mike Casey, right, of Conestoga Bank Chinatown Branch hand out toolboxes to graduates of their Weatherization Training Program. The project’s desire is for all who complete it to successfully find employment.
City Wide Youth Leadership Agency, in conjunction with PA Ridge Associates, graduated 25 trainees in their “Weatherization/ Green Energy Conservation Project” this past week. The two organizations celebrated the graduates of an eight-week training program in weatherization, energy conservation, and landscaping with a ceremony June 24 at their brand new headquarters, located on the 2nd floor of 1021-27 Ridge Avenue. At the conclusion of the
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Deeleys Officially Open Sea Shore For Politicos
610-892-4940
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page 32 The Public Record • July 2, 2009 www.phillyrecord.com
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW Term No. 090503992 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ACQUIRER OF CERTAIN ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK FROM THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION ACTING AS RECEIVER F/K/A UNITED SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS FSB Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs of Vera C. Bryan, Deceased Mortgagor and Real Owner Defendant TO: Unknown Heirs of Vera C. Bryan, Deceased, MORTGAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 2371 78th Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19150. 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 JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ACQUIRER OF CERTAIN ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK FROM THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION ACTING AS RECEIVER F/K/A UNITED SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS FSB, 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. 090503992 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 2371 West 78th Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19150 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of PhiladelphiaCounty. NOTICE You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the above, 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 claimed in the Complaint or 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 T 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. COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central 3638 North Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700 PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION One Reading Center • Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-238-6333
Michael T. McKeever Attorney for Plaintiff Goldbeck McCafferty & McKeever, PC Suite 5000, Mellon Independence Center 701 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19146-1532 215-627-1322
Philadelphia Gas Works Named 2009 Best Diversity Company The Philadelphia Gas Works has been recognized as one of 2009’s best diversity companies by the readers of Diversity/Careers in Engineering & Information Technology magazine. During March and April 2009, Diversity/Careers readers and website visitors were asked to identify the nation’s leading diversity corporations, government agencies and organizations. Participants were asked to not just consider the perception and reputation of the nominees, but also their actual experiences with the companies. “The PGW family comes
by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: Will you lose your car if the co-signer on the car loan is filing Chapter 7? Answer: If you are making regular payments and have not had any problems, it is unlikely the car lender would do much of anything. Depending on your own financial history however, they could, if it is in the lending contract, require another co-signer. Next week’s question: What happens to your savings and checking account when filing bankruptcy?
from Philadelphia’s many diverse neighborhoods, and we’re proud of that fact,” said Thomas E. Knudsen, president of PGW. “This award, which is an honor to receive, is just one more step toward our goal to become the safest, most diverse natural-gas delivery company in Pennsylvania.” Some of the initiatives that have created PGW’s awardwinning diversity environment are a technical association providing engineers with a venue in which they can explore and discuss ideas and information, while building mentoring relationships for new and experienced engineers; an active employee group that offers networking and communityoutreach opportunities; a partnership with The Community
College of Philadelphia so employees can take advantage of life-long, diverse learning opportunities on PGW’s premises after work; specialized high-school and college internship programs offering working-world experience, a mentor, exposure to career opportunities and an understanding of how education can lead to a successful career at PGW; minority hiring and contracting priorities; and a continual focus on celebrating the uniqueness of each employee. Diversity/Careers serves engineering and IT professionals who are women, African Americans, Hispanics, Asian Americans, Native Americans, people with disabilities and members of other diversity groups.
Receiving Doctorates At Drexel
H. PATRICK SWYGERT, immediate past president of Howard University and past executive VP of Temple University, received an honorary doctorate from Drexel University at the June Commencement. With him, from left, are Richard Greenwalt, board chairman; Mrs. Eliana Papadakis, honorary doctorate recipient; and Chuck Pennoni, interim president of Drexel University. Photo by Bonnie Squires.
Ringside With The Shadowboxer
Busy Summer For Philly Boxers Philadelphia’s boxers have a packed schedule over the summer. Over the weekend, Philly Middleweight LaJuan Simon traveled to Germany where he lost a close 12-round unanimous decision to Sebastian Sylvester in a title-elimination bout. On Jul. 4, Philly Heavyweight “Fast” Eddie Chambers will also head to Germany for a 12-round WBO title eliminator against undefeated Alexander Dimitrenko. On Jul. 10, Philly’s undefeated LightHeavyweight Tony “Boom-Boom” Ferrante
will face Billy Bailey at the Arena in South Philly. On Jul. 11, Philly’s former Cruiserweight Steve “USS” Cunningham will face Wayne Braithwaite in an IBF title eliminator in Florida. Also on Jul. 11 at the Prudential Center in Newark, N. J., Philly Welterweight Kaseem Wilson faces Henry Crawford. And after being twice postponed due to injuries, rising Philly Welterweight Mike Jones will finally step into the ring with Larry Mosley on Aug. 8 at Bally’s in Atlantic City.
“prohibit the sale of expired non-prescription drugs, infant formula, baby food, milk, milk products and eggs.” The measure, backed unanimously by the Council’s Public Health Committee, also offers a bonus to consumers who discover expired goods on store shelves: half off an unexpired container of each expired item they find.
CVS has been caught selling expired products multiple times at its stores in Philadelphia. CVS has to pay nearly $1 million to the State of California to settle allegations of misconduct stemming from the sale of out-of-date products. The case also charged CVS had failed to adequately protect and dispose of customers’ confidential
personal and medical information. CVS agreed to require bimonthly removal of expired products and improved employee training in its more than 800 California stores; however, that agreement only applies to California. The Attorney General of New York has sued CVS over sale of expired goods there as well.
Water Dept. Ugandans Learn Role Of City Controller Billing Rate Big Failure
going debacle continues to climb higher and higher and the problem appears to get worse year after year, Philadelphians continue to foot the bill for this continuing technological
mess," said Butkovitz. Over the last eight years, the City has raised water rates by 41%. In the last eight months, the City has raised its rates by 13.5%.
IRISH NAVY’s flagship Eithne will visit Port of Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing from Jul. 14-17 with 90 men aboard. Eithne visited Argentina earlier in year. It will conduct special tours while in port.
"It is outrageous that the majority of responsible customers will be forced to pay higher rates because the Water Revenue Bureau can't get it right," said Butkovitz.
PROUDLY MANAGING PENNSYLVANIAʼS INTERNATIONAL SEAPORT SINCE 1990
Philadelphia Regional Port Authority A Promising Future By Championing the Channel-Deepening Project And Substantial Port Expansion
Once Again, We Thank Gov. Ed Rendell For Giving Our Port A Great Opportunity And
John H. Estey, Esq. Chairman
James T. McDermott, Jr. Executive Director
Robert C. Blackburn
Senior Deputy Executive Director
John F. Dempsey
Deputy Executive Director Administrative Offices: 3460 N. Delaware Ave. 2nd Fl., Phila., PA 19134 (215) 426-2600 • Fax (215) 426-6800 www.philaport.com
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Water rates have increased by 6.4% for thousands of Philadelphians, leaving City Controller Alan Butkovitz disturbed the City has spent $9.2 million on the ineffective "basis2" billing system. In conjunction with a 2007 audit of Project Ocean that looked at the City's previous failed water billing systems, the City has now spent almost $50 million on five waterbilling systems that do not properly function. The basis2 system cost $2.5 million more than the City projected. According to Butkovitz, “When the last audit was issued, the City pledged that if it spent another $6.7 million on an 'off-the-shelf' software program known as basis2, it would finally get it right and the system would be operating on Jan. 1, 2008. "In addition to the $2.5 million overrun, it is very troubling to announce that once again, the City is left with a water-billing system that doesn't work," said Butkovitz. After one year under the new system, water and sewage collections were down $9 million. The City collected $428 million during calendar year 2008 compared to $437 million in 2007. Under the "new" water billing system, the outstanding amount owed the City increased by $8.4 million putting the total outstanding for water and sewer accounts at $167 million. "While the bill for this on-
CITY CONTROLLER Alan Butkovitz hosted seven members of Ugandan Parliament discussing role and importance of an independent “Fiscal Watchdog”. Participants in photo, along with the City Controller and Ugandan Parliament Members include Chris DiFusco, Law Dept.; Hugh Ortman, Procurement commissioner; Nancy Gilboy, IVC; and John Thomas, Controller’s Office.
Irish Ship To Visit
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
As CVS settles allegations of misleading customers and unfair business practices stemming from the sale of expired products in California, Philadelphia City Council voted in its last session before summer recess to clamp down on the sale of expired goods. A bill introduced in May by Councilmember Maria D. Quiñones-Sánchez would
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Council Prohibits CVS’ Selling Expired Goods
www.phillyrecord.com
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
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Privè: Greeks bearing spectacular culinary gifts
by Len Lear Based on our previous travels to Greece, we know generosity and hospitality are in the Greek DNA, and this is exactly the feeling one gets at Privè, a restaurant that was opened last Aug. 25 at 246 Market Street in Old City (former site of Bluzette, a soul food restaurant) by three proud Greeks, Nick Lavdas, his cousin Bill Lavdas and brother-in-law, Augustine Riginos. All have a long history in the business in New Jersey. Bill owns the Corner Bistro in Haddonfield while Nick owns Victory Lane Bar & Grill in Berlin. “Greeks love being hospitable, and that’s why we’re in this business,” said Nick.”My dad and mom were always feeding people,
and my dad Angelo owned the Penn Queen Diner in Pennsauken for 46 years. He retired at 70, and he is now 74. He taught me never to sacrifice on ingredients, no matter what the economy is like, because the customer always has to come first.” Privè has stayed pretty much below the radar, partly because they opened right about the time the national economy sank to the bottom of the ocean. However, I can tell you once foodies learn about Privè and check it out, it will be the Susan Boyle of the local restaurant industry. Privè’s executive chef, Peter Karapanagiotis, 24, who started cooking at his family’s George’s Place in Cape May and later cooked at Buddakan and Brasserie Perrier, is going to be a major star. Movie-star handsome, personable and hugely tal-
ented, Peter should be held hostage by Privè’s owners and not allowed out of their basement because this guy is eventually going to get offers up the wazoo. (On Aug. 25 Peter will be featured on the Food network show, Chopped, which will be one year to the day that Privè opened.) After achieving success in South Jersey, the owners of Privè (“Private or Privileged”) decided to try their hand in Philly (sort of like moving up from Triple-A ball to the major leagues) and zeroed in on Old City because it has become a dining Mecca that is rich with walk-in traffic and tourists during the warm-weather months. The location at 246 Market Street was vacant and is big enough to seat 28 in the stunning first floor dining room, 35 in the first floor bar area, 25 outdoors and 75 more in the upstairs lounge and bar — and many more for a private party.
Obviously no expense was spared in the renovation. The contemporary New York/ Mediterranean look is achieved with comfortable white banquettes on the first floor, separated from each other by stringy “drapes,” uneven Italian stone walls on both floors that create a 3-D effect, Italian mosaic marble walls in the bathrooms with faucets that have a waterfall vibe, backlighting and custom glass at the bar, etc. Appetizers range from $5 to $14. The three we tried were all wonderful and aesthetically presented, but the one that completely blew us away was the cheese boureki — baked goat cheese with red peppers, eggplant and a wildberry balsamic vinegar. The eggplant in particular was an architectural marvel with a translucent look and a gloss of sweetness that coaxed extra flavor from everything around it. Ditto for the feather-light, crispy homemade potato chips ($3).
Len Lear
For the very reasonable price of $14, an entree of risotto was not the least bit gummy but was a moist, unbridled gastro-indulgence with rice, summer vegetables with just-picked freshness, sausage and a red wine reduction sauce. Also with an elegant feel, technique and presentation (and food-pyramid consciousness) was the Atlantic salmon with a transcendent caramel olive glaze, tzatziki (a Greek sauce made with strained yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, pepper, dill and other seasonings) and delicate truffle essence ($16).
Wines and cocktails are very pricey (I say this about almost every non-BYOB restaurant these days because of the huge markups), but one cocktail that was truly magical was the “Kino” Mojito — with rum, peach nectar and mint. It was not filled to the top with ice or overly strong, as so many are these days. It was pricey at $12 but is as good a Mojito as we’ve had anywhere. During Happy Hour 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, cocktails and some hors d’oeuvres are half-price; on Sunday nights there is a prefixe three- course dinner for just $25 that has been selling out, and the first Saturday of each month is “Greek night” with lots of Greek music, food, etc. One can also choose a “Chef’s Tasting,” in which the chef selects specialty dishes not on the menu for $45 per person. For more information, call (215) 9238313 or visit www.priveoldcity.com.
How can you project what will happen 10 years from now, Mr. Mayor? You’re NOT that good. You keep throwing up all these phony ‘scenarios’, just like ‘Fast Eddie’, our TAX-CRAZY Governor. The both of you sound alike, trying to explain WHY you want to raise our TAXES or, for that matter, wanting us to pay for what we are already paying for. Explain it to all of us in language we can ALL understand. Then you wonder why people are leaving our STATE.” (Note: The person who sent me this Email
‘dared me to print it. I had to cut some of it, OK.) Snooper’s “TRIPLE THEORY” Files: My good friend Charles Jenkins (DECEASED) always told me things happen in THREES. Yo Chief, think about this. TV and RADIO: HARRY KALAS, GARY PAPA and now IRV HOMER! ENTERTAINMENT: MR. ED McMAHON, FARRAH FAWCETT and now MICHAEL “King of Pop” JACKSON. It’s scary when you think about it, but I can’t help believe “The Captain’s” “Triple Theory” is right on
the money. Boss, how about me? I hit THE LOTTERY three times in one month. Yes Chief, The THREE KINGS of music are gone: ROY ACUFF (Country Music), ELVIS PRESLEY (Rock-n-Roll) and finally MICHAEL JACKSON. Who’s next? Snooper’s “Hotwires”: THE U.S. SUPREME COURT has ruled IN FAVOR of all those FIREMEN who were UNJUSTLY denied their PROMOTIONS. Guess who The Judge was who ruled AGAINST them? JUDGE SOTOMAYOR.
Yes, this idiot should not even be considered to be a JUDGE on The SUPREME COURT. She is clearly a RACIST and she definitely proved it in this case. She is also The Judge who stated, “LATINO women make better JUDGES” and also made some other disparaging comments regarding other ETHNIC groups. Sotomayor is using her ethnic background to persuade The Senators to vote for her confirmation. This would be A DISASTER! She is one JUDGE The Supreme Court can do without!
Elephant Corner
candidate PAT TOOMEY stopped by the Union Trust Steakhouse last Thursday night as the guest of new law partners WALLY ZIMOLONG and SCOTT SIGMAN. He told a very enthusiastic crowd about how he sees it as his patriotic duty to reverse the very dangerous course the Democrats have put us on. Looks like the Philadelphia Young Republicans are finally set to pass the mantle of leadership. Elections are scheduled
for Tuesday, Jul. 21 at 7:00 p.m. in the 2nd-floor conference room at 1500 Walnut Street, the offices of Republican stalwart and WARD LEADER MIKE CIBIK. To vote you must be a Philadelphia resident, renew your YR membership at $20, and be between the ages of 18-40. The choice for Chairman appears to lie between former State House candidate and attorney Wally Zimolong, and relative unknown but current YR board member BILL FIRTH.
A hearty “well done” to JOE EASTMAN! Joe hosted an outreach event in Chinatown last week that was superb. Pennsylvania Supreme Court candidate JUDGE JOAN ORIE MELVIN joined her sister, Pennsylvania Senate MAJORITY WHIP JANE ORIE, and our own City Controller candidate AL SCHMIDT to hear concerns of business and community leaders in the Chinatown neighborhood. Enjoy the dog days of summer, my plump pals!
(Cont. From Page 14) ble your utility bills, and now a government attempt to take over health care (standby for third-world treatment), we are heading down the poverty path! If you refuse to just stand by and take it, be sure to make your voice heard at the two Tea Party Protests this Jul. 4 at either Love Park or Independence Mall. DIANA REIMER heads up the Tea Party Patriots Independence Day Event 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Love Park. The Re-Tea Party, Picnic and Parade at Independence Mall starts at 10:30 a.m. at Independence Park. Both events will feature fantastic music and brilliant guest speakers. On the local scene, Senate
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
(Cont. From Page 14) Many of you may remember him in ‘the heydays’ of WWDB RADIO. He was surrounded with great company: WYNNE MOORE, DOMENIC QUINN, DOLLY BANKS, MR. SID MARKS, STAN MAJORS, MICHELLE IAIA, “THE SAUCY AUSSIE”, LARRY FIELDS, BERNIE HERMAN, and many others who followed. “EVIL IRV”, as we knew him, was a fine human being who really cared about people and how they were treated. “UNCLE OIV”, as I always affectionately called him, was also a great friend. Please, send a generous donation to his favorite project, THE SUNSHINE FOUNDATION. He did so much for them too – ask MR. BILL SAMPLE. He was given a “Radio Gig” by MERRILL REESE, who put him on WBCB every afternoon. Yes, “The Godfather of Talk Radio” is gone, but he’ll not be forgotten! Snooper’s Special “Holiday
Message”: THE SNOOPER, along with all our professional members of THE PUBLIC RECORD NEWSPAPER, seriously want all our great people who take the time to read our newspapers to PLEASE have a safe and happy JULY 4th HOLIDAY. Hey, remember, DRIVE CAREFULY and, I might add, PARTY SENSIBLY. Do this and we know we’ll be seeing you again. FIREWORKS are ILLEGAL in this City, and also The State of Pennsylvania, and I can tell you, THE STATE POLICE and your local POLICE will be out there to enforce all these laws. Snooper’s QUESTION BOX (Email): “Mr. Mayor, please tell me exactly what our TAXES are paying for, because it seems you want us, THE TAXPAYERS, to pay for everything I thought WE were entitled to as TAXPAYERS. First you tried to tax us for TRASH. This one blew up in your face. The Taxpayers have just about had it with all your nonsense regarding this City’s huge phony debt.
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Snooper
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The Public Record • July 2, 2009
page 36
Out & About (Cont. From Page 14) But as I was coming home from work Thursday night, I was hit with the biggest reminder of all. Michael Jackson was rushed to the hospital and was later pronounced dead at UCLA Medical Center. He was 50. (That’s five years
older than I am, if you’re keeping track.) Jackson had spent the night before at the Staples Center in Los Angeles rehearsing for an upcoming series of concerts at London’s O2 Arena. The “This is It” tour was designed to reintroduce him to the music-buying public and to help him get rid of $400 million in debt.
I remember getting a copy of “Thriller”, arguably Jackson’s biggest hit and one of the best-selling records in history, from my friend Veronica as a Christmas present in 1983. I also remember getting really, really tired of hearing it shortly after Christmas because you didn’t have to put “Thriller” on the turntable to hear it every five minutes ... all you had to
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA Sealed proposals will be received by the School Reform Commission at the School Administration Building located at 440 North Broad St., 3rd Floor, Office of Capital Programs, Philadelphia, PA 19130-4015, until 2:00 P.M., on Tuesday, June 30th, 2009. A non-refundable fee for each set of bid documents is as scheduled. The School District will only accept bids from companies that have been placed on its current Pre Qualified Contractors List as shown at psit.org. All School District Project require MBE/WBE participation as shown in the specifications.
B- 028 C of 2008/09* Electrical Contract John Bartram High School Fire Alarm Replacement 2401 South 67th Street
FEE $100.00
BUDGET $ 400,000.00
do was turn on WDAS. But that said, Michael Jackson was a big part of the soundtrack of my neighborhood. From listening to “ABC” and “The Love You Save” and other hits at kiddie birthday parties and cookouts to going to my very first concert, the Jacksons at the Spectrum, my friends and I were huge fans. In fact, it was common for my girlfriends and me to discuss who our “favorite Jackson” was. (While most of my girlfriends were Michael or Jermaine fans, I personally gravitated toward Jackie and Marlon. Alas, no one had the warm fuzzies toward Tito.) But after “Off the Wall”
and “Thriller”, it became kind of hard to remain a Michael Jackson fan, even if you focused solely on the music, which had started to become kinda mediocre. It was sad to see him turn from a handsome African American boy to Joan Crawford. It was even sadder to see him accused of child molestation twice. But as I channel-surfed all weekend in an attempt to avoid the myriad of Jackson tributes that seemed to spring up on every cable channel, I thought about the one topic no one talked about: What happens when you give an 8-year-old the responsibility of paying the mortgage? I bring this up because for
* A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location on July 2nd, 2009 at 12:00 NOON
Specifications and/or plans and contract documents may be examined and copies thereof obtained from the School Reform Commission, 440 North Broad Street, 3rd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Information as to contract documents, etc., may be obtained at the above address, or telephone 215-400-5225. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia. The School Reform Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and make the awards to the best interests of the School District of Philadelphia.
2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134
Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937
every Jodie Foster, who took her childhood stardom and parlayed it into a degree from Yale before returning to the big screen, there’s a bunch of former child stars like “The Partridge Family’s” Danny Bonaduce and “Diff’rent Strokes” star Gary Coleman who had all sorts of problems growing up and found themselves fighting both addiction and their parents. Jackson had a lot of people to hang out with, but not a whole lot of friends. He missed out on his childhood, so he tried to have one in antisocial ways. He made some really great music, but he found out fame is a lot like crack: The first hit’s free. The rest you have to pay for. My hope is Jackson will finally get the peace in death that seemed to elude him in life. Have a great Independence Day weekend! I’ll have my annual “Welcome America” column next week ... and for once, I won’t be complaining about the entertainment on the Ben Franklin Parkway. I think I’ll be sending Jimmy Fallon a gift.
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K & A Auto Salvage Inc. 2160-66 E. Somerset - Phila., PA 19134 215-423-4255 Fax: 215-423-4256 In accordance with chapter 73 of the vehicle Code Authorization of the department of Transportation the Following vehicles will be publicly auctioned @ K&A Auto salvage Inc. 2160 E Somerset St on July 2, 2009@10:00 YEAR MAKE
1998 2000 1998 1987 2000 1999 2000 1998 1998 2001 2001 1991 1994 1198 2000 2000 2001 1996 2000 1996 1997 1998 1999 1995 2001 1999 2005 2002 2007
KIA CHEVROLET GMC PORSCHE PLYMOUTH HYUNDAI BUICK CHEVROLET FORD FORD DODGE BUICK JEEP FORD DAEWOO CADILLAC CHRYSLER DODGE OLDSMOBILE FORD CHEVROLET PLYMOUTH BUICK LINCOLN ACURA BUICK CHEVROLET MERCEDES VOLKSWAGEN
KNAFB1216W5724199 2G1WW12E3Y9366665 1GTGG25RXW1065745 WP0AA0949HN450557 1P3EJ46X24N204361 KMHVD14M2XU447501 1G4CU521444185433 1GMDX03EWD338922 1FAFP66KL0WK220686 1FAFP55U81A179369 2B8GP44G71R186230 1G4CW53L7M1670817 1J4FJ7855RL180717 2FMZA51U5WBC81959 KLAJC52Z6YK436864 1G6KD54Y8YU174660 2C4GP44341R330611 1B4GP44R8TB106227 1G3LUS52HXYF214779 2FMDA5145TBC28247 1G1JC1248V7160703 1P3EJ46X2WN269160 1G4CW52K5X4647869 1LNLM97V3SY674896 19UYA42471A034859 2G4WB52K3X1623297 2G1WF52EX59366875 WDBRN47J82A236292 WVWFV71K07W068746
AVC#
843602 842492 843398 842217 842228 842227 842218 842219 849958 850360 850341 850092 850091 850090 846960 849960 849961 849962 849963 849965 849966 849967 849970 849971 849973 849964 849972 850437 849959
Paid Training. Lodging, Transportation Provided. 1-877-6465050. LAND FOR SALE New York State Family Owned Farm Since 1880 -FOR SALE 5 Acres -Gorgeous Reidgeline Views -$19,900. 10 Acres w/Meadows, Woods, Streams -$25,900. Larger Tracts Available 800-229-7843 www.LandandCamps.com MEDICAL EQUIPMENT: GET YOUR NEW Power Wheelchairs, Power Scooters and Hospital Beds at absolutely NO COST if you qualify!! Fastest delivery available!! Call Toll Free 1-800-470-7562. MISCELLANEOUS NOW AVAILABLE! 2009 POST OFFICE JOBS. $18-$20/HR NO EXPERIENCE, PAID TRAINING, FED BENEFITS, VACATIONS. CALL 1-800-910-9941 TODAY!
REF #PA09 ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical *Business *Paralegal *Computers *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 866-858-2121 www.CenturaOnline.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING: Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888)349-5387 NOTICES Pennsylvania Treasurer Rob McCord wants to put money back in your wallet! Treasury is seeking the owners of over $1 billion in unclaimed property. Search www.patreasury.org. You could have money waiting for you! VACATION RENTALS: OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best
selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800-638-2102 Online reservations www.holidayoc.com BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY: VANGUARD CLEANING SYSTEMS FRANCHISE: Commercial Office Cleaning. Operate a Business that YOU own! Since 1984, as low as $1500 down, Equipment, Support, Customers. Phone:717-260-3678 or:215396-2018 HELP WANTED: HEAT & AIR TECHS have Recession Proof Careers! 3wk Training Accreditation. EPA/OSHA Certified. Local Job Placement Assistance. Financing Available. COULD QUALIFY FOR GI/VA BENEFITS. 1-877994-9904
We are approved by the Commonwealth Dept. of General Services to serve you and service your vehicle!
If you need and want prompt and fast turnaround service on your state car or vehicle, then come to DeSimone Auto Group at 6101 Frankford Ave. Call Gus Iannacone at 215-744-6400 for quick and personal service. Any state vehicle you drive is eligible for tune-ups, oil changes, auto repairs and body work. 24 Hour Towing up to 200 miles
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STATE EMPLOYEES:
VIN#
annually including Federal Benefits and OT. Paid Training. Vacations. PT/FT 1-866945-0341 HELP WANTED DRIVER Werner Enterprises. 40 Driver Trainees needed. Drive the Big Rigs. No CDL, No Problem. No Credit, No Problem. $700-$800/week plus Benefits Call Now! 1-800-961-4319 Driver- CDL-A Great Flatbed Opportunity. OTR Runs, Professional Equipment, Competitive Pay & Regular Hometime. Also Hiring Van Drivers. Western Express/SMX CDL-A, 22 YO, 1 yr. OTR 888-839-2013 HELP WANTED MISCEL Over 18? Between High School and College? Travel and Have Fun w/Young Successful Business Group. No Experience Necessary. 2wks
ADS BIG Deals
The Public Record • July 2, 2009
ADOPTION: Pregnant? Considering Adoption? A childless young (35/31) couple seeks to adopt. Fulltime parent. Musical family. Financial security. Expenses paid. Call Jeremy & Greg at 1888-752-3032. ADOPT: Childless loving woman (teacher) wishes to adopt a newborn. Financially secure home with close extended family. Legal/Confidential. Expenses paid. Please call Denise: 1-866-201-4602 Pin#01960 AUTOS WANTED DONATE VEHICLE, Receive $1000 Grocery Coupon. Noah’s Arc Support No Kill Shelters. Research to Advance Veterinary Treatments. Free Towing, Tax Deductible,
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Public Record Classifieds:
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vide the Dept. of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program with $5 billion in Stimulus funding. LDC has taken responsibility for training the hundreds of workers who will be necessary to implement this funding in an efficient and responsible way. The training program will be offered at both the Exton location and at a Laborers’ satellite facility in Philadelphia. It is expected to open this summer. "We the Laborers are honored to have Labor Secretary Vito visit our training facility. The weatherization of homes needs to be done by trained workers," said Ryan Boyer, LDC business manager.
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(Cont. from Page 1) campus are worth their weight in gold. Contractors know when they use LDC members, they are getting individuals who not only know what is required of them, have an understanding of the tools needed on the various jobs, but also can anticipate what is needed by their employers. When Pennsylvania Secretary of Labor & Industry Sandi Vito toured the Weatherization Training program at the LDC Education & Training Facility, she came away convinced Federal stimulus money would be put to good use there. The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act will pro-
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Laborers To Handle Weatherization
LABORERS instructor Roscoe Greene explains his union’s cutting-edge training program to Labor & Industry official as Local 413 Business Mgr. James Harper, Sr. and Laborers District Council Business Mgr. Ryan Boyer look on.
LDC 135 Golf Classic Nutter To Curb Illiteracy Raises Charity $30,000 The Laborers’ Local 135 Memorial Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, held its Charity Golf Classic, raising $30,000 to benefit the Jerome Corley, Henry Mayers, Jonathan Woodall, Marvin James Memorial Scholarship Fund. “Our first annual golf outing was a tremendous success,” said Daniel Woodall, Jr., usiness manager of Local 135. “We were able to raise funds that will help qualified students in their educational
endeavors.” Corporate sponsors included Construction and General Laborers’ Local Union No. 1174, Employing Bricklayers Association of Delaware Valley, Insulators Local 14, Laborers District Council of the Metropolitan area of Philadelphia and Vicinity, LECET, Perry N. Blackman CPA, Fox Rothschild LLP, LDC of Western Pennsylvania, and U F C W Local 1176 Rerum Novarum Charitable Trust.
Brady Brings $$ To Homeless Vets based and community organizations, and social service agencies. Through these agencies, supportive services such as clothing, shelter, referrals to medical or substance-abuse treatment and transportation assistance are also provided to meet the needs of this target group. According to the National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients, approximately 40% of homeless men are veterans, although veterans comprise only 34% of the general adult male population.
training programs for adults and recently laid-off workers. The programs are funded from $6.7 million awarded to Philadelphia through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act. A majority of the funding will be directed into training programs focused in highgrowth industries, including clean energy; business and financial services; education and social services; hospitality; healthcare and life sciences; construction, logistics and transportation.
No More Forced Overtime (Cont. from Page 1) Tartaglione was the prime sponsor of Act 102, the result of more than six years of effort to curb the practice of forced overtime and address the concerns of health professionals. The law goes into effect Jul. 1, and State labor officials have posted information on the Internet to ensure compliance. The Bureau of Labor Compliance, under the State Dept. of Labor & Industry, will monitor changes under the law, and handle complaints and questions. Act 102 prohibits a healthcare facility from requiring employees to work more than agreed to, predetermined and regularly scheduled work
shifts. It does not prevent employees from voluntarily working overtime, and provides exceptions for emergencies. “To make sure the law is working as intended, the Dept. of Labor will help the health-care industry understand its provisions and limitations,” Tartaglione said. The mandatory-overtime law is a part of Tartaglione’s ongoing effort to address a shortage of nurses and other health professionals expected to grow as the state’s population ages. According to the Center for Health Careers, Pennsylvania will need 146,000 registered nurses in 2010, but would likely fall 5-10% short of that.
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(Cont. from Page 1) ally in programs that involve emergency shelter, substance abuse counseling and treatment (including long-term treatment using the Dept. of Veterans Affairs medical facilities), job counseling and referrals, employment assistance, transportation, housing and clothing. The HVRP program requires grantees to use available resources in the local community as well as maintaining relationships. Successful programs partner with HUD, VA, HHS, local faith-
(Cont. from Page 1) Foundation and the United Way, the report outlines the critical need to improve adult literacy. The report notes the growing gap between the essential needs of businesses and the basic skills of the workforce in the region. The problem is especially acute in Philadelphia, where 52.2% of the population falls below the literacy standard required by businesses. Mayor Michael A. Nutter and PWIB announced the granting of $2.92 million for
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