PR-517-P

Ron Panepinto Jewelers

Jim Stevenson

700 Sansom St. 215-923-1980

9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19114 215-698-7000 JStevenson@ChapmanAutoGroup.com

Vol. XI. No. 51 (Issue 517)

www.PanepintoJewelers.com We Buy Gold & Diamonds

Serving Citywide Political, Labor, Legal and School Communities of Philadelphia “The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”

COUNCILWOMAN Jannie Blackwell, seen here with supporters Francis Jones, Carl Green, Amina Young and Dr. Joi Spraggins, made a Merry Christmas for the 14th straight year for deserving families and individuals at her Holiday Party at Convention Center.

Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography

Value 50¢

December 24, 2009

VOLUNTEER waiters and waitresses carried food from busy buffet lines to waiting families at THIS PHOTO gives a glimpse of excitement and crowds that over 400 tables set up at Convention Center for ran through Penna. Convention Center during Jannie Blackannual Jannie Blackwell Christmas gala for well’s annual dinner for shelter users and needy families.

Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography needy. Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography

Jannie Hosts Homeless For 10th Christmas Party Sheriff Delivers Socks, Christmas On Woodland Ave. Shoes To City’s Needy

The logistics are overwhelming, but Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell every year manages to add more of this city’s needy families, the majority living in homeless shelters, to share with her a Christmas dinner with toys galore given to the children. This year, they numbered close to 5,000.

She did this last week, crowning the Christmas season at Pennsylvania Convention Center with the one event that easily takes top billing in the many Christmas-spirited events sponsored by others of the city’s political establishment.

Elsewhere, bikes were given to needy children by Councilwoman Marian Tasco and State Sen. Larry Farnese; Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown distributed coats, (Cont. Page 28) (Cont. From Page 1)

Sheriff John Green continues his tradition of delivering not only new socks and new shoes to the needy at the Salvation Army’s main offices, but he also makes sure they get their feet checked. Such was the case this week when the Sheriff delivered close to 1,000 pairs of shoes to be distributed to the needy, who were waiting. Delivering foot-health checks was the Foot and Ankle Center run by Dr. and Mrs. Youssef Kabbani.

Sheriff John Green, when he first took office, realized many families were treated to toys, gifts, food, and some clothing, but no one ever menSHOWING baby James his new tioned shoes. “Those in need of food shoes from Sheriff is Allison and clothing are also in need of shoes Hillanbrand. Photo by Donald Terry and stockings,”, he noted. So he began to collect new odd-lot shoes and new socks of all sizes during the year which he and his staff delivered to the needy.

This year the shoes were delivered over a two-day period but were collected over a two-month period.

--The Public Record Staff This is the 20th year of his holiday (Cont. Page 6)

“We Wish A Merry Christmas To You And Your Families”

‘COMMUNITY CLAUS’ (aka City employee Paul “Earthquake” Moore) hands out gifts to young passers-by in front of 12th Dist. Police Station in S. W. Phila., aided by his friend Community Relations Officer Joe Young.

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Page 2 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

PGW Launches Natural Gas Conservation Plan The Philadelphia Gas Works has filed a base rate case with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to increase rates by $42.5 million for one year, making last year’s emergency rate request permanent and launching Pennsylvania’s largest natural gas energy conservation plan.

The rate increase would be reduced by the terms of

PGW’s request annually to $7 million by 2015. If the PUC decides to grant the full rate increase, PGW’s residential natural gas rates will still be 18% lower than they were this time last year and the average monthly residential bill of $131.48 would increase by about $8.54 or 6.5%.

“We at PGW know that

our customers don’t want to see their natural-gas rates increase,” said Thomas Knudsen, PGW President and CEO. “All of the changes we have asked the PUC to approve are designed to continue our recent progress and to reduce customer costs. For example, investing in our conservation plan now will ultimately allow our cus-

tomers to enjoy savings of about $60 million.”

In addition to the proposed conservation program, PGW filed to change the way that it funds its retiree health obligations. Currently, PGW pays for post-retirement medical benefits for current and former employees out of its operating budget. This current request would create

an interest generating fund that would eventually become self-sustaining and allow PGW to remove the charge from customer’s bills after 2015. This new funding mechanism will save customers $180 million over 30 years.

Last December, the PUC granted PGW an emergency base rate increase of $60 mil-

lion. Over the last year the revenue has allowed PGW to fund its operations during volatile economic times and avoid borrowing money that otherwise would have cost customers high interest charges. As part of its current request, PGW has asked the commission to make last year’s base rate increase permanent.

Pennsylvania’s 12-yearold Charter School Law is expected to undergo major revisions under legislation introduced by the Senate Education Committee chairmen, State Sen. Jeffrey Piccola and Minority Chair State Sen. Andrew Dinniman.

SB 1156 would incorporate a number of changes to facilitate the creation and continued operation of Pennsylvania’s charter and cyber charter schools, according to Piccola and Dinniman.

Specifically, the legislation would allow institutions of higher education to approve the creation of a char-

ter school and permit an intermediate unit or local board of school directors to create a cyber charter school. The bill also would modify the application and appeals procedures for the State’s charter schools by streamlining administrative processes.

Under the legislative package, greater checks and balances would be established on Pennsylvania’s charter schools as well.

Some of these provisions include mandating additional oversight and accountability on administrators, board members and management companies. The bill will also create the Office of Charter

and Cyber Charter Schools within the Pennsylvania Dept. of Education to be charged with oversight of charter- and cyber-charterschool functions, such as the ability to investigate complaints of fraud, waste and mismanagement, and make referrals to law enforcement.

“Our legislation was introduced to not only provide a much-needed update to the State’s decade-old law, but to address a number of issues that have arisen in the last year as several charter schools, particularly in the Philadelphia region, have been the target of criminal investigations and financial scandals. It’s important that this public-school choice option is protected and available to more families, but more controls must be put in place to prevent potential abuse,” said Piccola. “In the New Year, this Committee will hold public hearings on the bill to give others an opportunity to discuss its elements and then I am hopeful we can move the measure quickly through the legislative process.”

“Charter schools offer a valuable and important public-school option to both students and their families.

However, it is clear that additional accountability is needed in order to prevent the types of abuses we have seen in recent months,” Dinniman said. “This legislation puts more checks in place to ensure that charter schools properly serve Pennsylvania students for years to come.”

The bill is supported by State Sens. Tina Tartaglione and LeAnna Washington.

Emphasizing the recent assault on students at South Philadelphia HS, State Reps.

John Taylor and Bill Keller hand-delivered a letter to Pennsylvania Education Secretary Dr. Gerald Zahorchak, criticizing him for closing the Office of the Safe Schools Advocate in Philadelphia and requesting that he reopen the office immediately.

In criticizing Zahorchak, the legislators wrote, “In a recent audit of your handling of violence in our public schools, State Auditor General Jack Wagner also criticized you for breaking the law and endangering the welfare of City schoolchildren by eliminating this legally mandated office.”

According to Wagner’s audit, “The importance of the Philadelphia Safe Schools Advocate cannot be overstated.

The safety of the children of the School District of Philadelphia is directly related to the existence of this statutorily required independent position.”

Taylor and Keller wrote, “The two individuals who

served as the Safe Schools Advocate have both asserted that the School District of Philadelphia seriously underreported the level of violence in our schools. Both Advocates also criticized your Department for failing to cooperate with them in their mission to make Philadelphia schools safer.”

Taylor and Keller were authors of the Safe Schools Advocate law, along with current Philadelphia City Controller Alan Butkovitz, who was a legislator at the time the bill became law.

They led a bipartisan investigation into violence in Philadelphia public schools and “found violent assaults on students were numerous and many assaults went unreported.”

According to Taylor and Keller, “We heard from teachers who were fired because they reported violent incidents, and parents who were angry, scared and frustrated because no one was standing up to protect their children.”

The letter read, “According to recent press reports,

students at South Philadelphia HS and local community activists are equally as angry, scared and frustrated as the parents we interviewed during our investigation. Some were quoted as saying that the ‘violence has been happening for years, and the district has not done enough to address the problem.’”

They concluded, “We would remind you that the closure of the Safe Schools Advocate office is in clear violation of the law. Assaults like those that were recently perpetrated against students at South Philadelphia HS clearly call for immediate action on your part to reopen this vitally important office as soon as possible.”

In his research on the issue, the Public Record’s Nick DePace found a direct link between the closing of the Office of the Safe Schools Advocate and Donna Cooper, Gov. Ed Rendell’s secretary of planning. It was former Safe Schools Advocate Jack Stollsteimer who revealed Cooper’s hand in the decision to eliminate the position.

Changes Sought In Charter School Law Legislators Want Safe Schools Advocate

www.phillyrecord.com

Weatherizing Reps

STATE REPS. Louise Williams Bishop, left, and Vanessa Lowery Brown joined in House Majority Policy Committee hearing on energy and weatherization at The Enterprise Center in University City.

ENJOYING breakfast meeting at Dixon House were members of Point Breeze Community Net-Work, Inc. They are working on plans for their 2010 Community Expo.

Photo by Donald Terry.

Page 3

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The Public Record • December 24, 2009

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Page 4 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Goode’s Legislative Efforts Position Him Well As Possible Mayor Contender

by Joe Shaheeli With the main media warning Mayor Michael Nutter he’s “running out of time” to get into place the many changes he pledged to make when he first took office, the political rumor-mill has it as a fact he

will face a primary foe or foes.

That is, unless he stabilizes the “good ship Philadelphia” and begins to create a more-welcome climate for the businesses in this City.

Labor sent a not-too-subtle message to the Mayor when it

Sheriff Green’s Important Steps to Saving Your Home Step 1: Assemble your current financial information, and call your lender.

Step 2:

Visit www.phillysheriff.com to learn more about borrowers’ rights, loss mitigation and abusive servicing practices. Contact the Sheriff’s Office at 215-686-3525 for more information

Step 3: If you feel uncomfortable handling mortgage negotiations, consult a professional housing Counselor

Step 4: Take time to carefully investigate the offers you receive to avoid becoming a fraud victim Sheriff John D. Green Philadelphia

turned out a capacity crowd for a fundraiser for Councilman at Large Bill Green. Prime push came from the Building Trades Council and, as that Council goes, so normally do many of the other unions in the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO. In a look-around for worthy candidates who might consider opposing the Mayor in the next Democratic primary, there are several who are in relatively good positions to make that challenge.

For the sake of this article, we single out another prospect. This one is Councilman W. Wilson Goode, Jr. Though he may be facing a small hurdle based on a “vacation” incident, Goode has positioned himself smartly as a true campaigner for the majority of African Americans who make up 70% of the Democratic vote in this City. In addition, Goode is a proven master of the nuts and bolts of policy-drafting legislation – the sort that fundamentally changes how City government operates.

Elected 10 years ago, Councilman W. Wilson Goode, Jr.’s 55th bill was signed into law this session.

The Councilman introduced 13 of those 55 bills during the first half of this four-year term. The majority of these have leveraged banks and businesses to open their doors wider to that community.

At the beginning of the

term, in the spring of 2008, Goode’s ordinance to eliminate the gross-receipts portion of the City’s business-privilege tax was unanimously approved.

Goode believes taxing businesses on both gross receipts and net income is an impediment to job growth, as well as an excessive burden for small disadvantaged businesses.

Goode’s Living Wage and Benefits Law was also approved that spring, requiring covered employees in Philadelphia to be paid at least 150% of the Federal minimum wage with comparable health benefits for full-time employees.

Goode also pushed “Philly First” civil-service legislation. The amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter, approved by voters last year, provides when eligible lists for appointments and promotions are established, those persons who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the examination shall prevail over all others who receive the identical test score.

In the fall of 2008, the CDC Tax Credit Program was expanded from 25 to 30 partnerships. The expanded program will bring at least $30 million in new private investment for communitybased economic programs.

In the spring of 2009, Goode amended the program

providing a credit for contributions to community development corporations to allow two businesses to apply jointly for the tax credit. Goode also amended the program under which a credit against the City’s business-privilege taxes will be given to businesses that create new jobs within the City of Philadelphia. The businesses will receive a $3,000 credit for each new job created for tax years 2010 or 2011.

Last spring, Goode also created new requirements related to the submission of an economic-opportunity plan. The economic-opportunity plans, required under Title 17 of the Philadelphia Code, will now contain a statement from the contractor, developer and/or recipient of financial assistance summarizing past practices to develop diversity at any/all levels of its organization including, but not limited to, board and management positions.

This statement must also summarize strategic business plans specific to the utilization of women and people of color.

This fall, the Councilman primarily focused on economic-opportunity enforcement. The newest enforcement legislation targeted Goode’s Fair Lending & Community Reinvestment Law, which requires City depositories to annually submit goals for lending in low- and (Cont. Page 5)

www.phillyrecord.com

Kitchen Throws Senior Feast

State Sen.

Shirley M. Kitchen 3rd Sen. District 1701 W. Lehigh Ave.Ste 104 • Philadelphia, PA 19132 215-227-6161 • www.senatorkitchen.com

FEASTING senior citizens at Yorkhouse luncheon is State Sen. Shirley Kitchen as N. PHILA. seniors aged 90 or older reRev. Anthony Floyd thanks sponsors of lav- ceived special Penna. Senate commendaish event. tion.

The Public Record (USPS PP 109) Weekly Publication Published by:

The Phila. Public Record The South Phila Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila., PA 19147 ISSN 1938-8551 (Application to Mail At Periodicals Postage Rates Is Pending At Philadelphia PA and Bellmawr NJ) Postmaster: send address change to: The Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila. PA 19147 215-755-2000 Fax: 215-689-4099 Editor@phillyrecord.com Subscription Rate: $ 30.00/Year EDITORIAL STAFF Editor & Publisher: James Tayoun Sr. Managing Editor: Anthony West Associate Editor: Rory G. McGlasson Medical Editor: Paul Tayoun M.D. CitiLife Editor: Ruth R. Russell Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Out & About Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Correspondent: Nathan R. Shrader Nathaniel Lee Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Photographers: Donald Terry Lee Buchanan Dawud Starling Harry Leech Production Manager: William J. Hanna Bookkeeping: Haifa Hanna Webmaster: Sana Muaddi-Dows Advert. director: John David Controller: John David Circulation: Steve Marsico The Public Record welcomes news and photographs about your accomplishments and achievements which should be shared with the rest of the community.

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Attorney General Has More Shoes To Drop It’s rumored Attorney General Tom Corbett’s about to drop more indictments on several Democratic legislators. If true, it will show his Bonusgate investigation is

Councilman Wm.

Greenlee

Room 580 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927

turning into nothing but a partisan effort to weaken Democrat opposition to his candidacy for Governor.

Bonusgate bucks tradition.

If Judges in Pennsylvania can each have a personal officer attached to their court to their bidding, personal or otherwise, why does this preclude the other branches of government of making use of their personnel as well? That question could prove to be a strong point for the defense.

Hardly an elected official, Republican or Democrat, has not made use of their staffs to help with personal or campaign chores. For that matter, elected officials themselves have been campaigning for reelection on the public paroll since the dawn of time. Realistically, it is hard for incumbent politicians to avoid using staffers in ways that might advance their campaigns.

A check of Corbett’s history in office, an interrogation of the staffs he hired through those offices, and especially during his campaign period, might call for his indictment based on the charges he is using against his targets.

Reforming Redistricting?

A bill reforming the way legislative districts in Pennsylvania

R EP. A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE 2749 N. 5th St. • 215-291-5643 Staffed by

Joe Evangelista • Debbie Toro Ready to Serve you

State Rep.

William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

215-271-9190

are drawn every 10 years has been approved by the House State Government Committee.

The bill was introduced by State Rep. Babette Josephs, who chairs the House State Government Committee.

“The purpose of my legislation is to take the politics out of the redistricting process — to prevent gerrymandering for the next legislative reapportionment and each one thereafter,” Josephs said. “Pennsylvania’s legislative Districts should be drawn in an open and nonpartisan process.”

Redistricting or reapportionment is the the way the state’s legislative and Congressional Districts are redrawn every 10 years, based on population figures in the US Census. The next reapportionment is slated for 2011.

Obituary Rep. William Rieger Former State Rep. William Rieger, who served the 179th Dist. for 40 years, has died. His funeral services were held with a Mass at St. Dominic Church, followed by interment at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery.

Rieger was also the owner of popular Charlie’s Pizzeria on the Boulevard.

State Representative

RONALD G. WATERS 191st Leg. District 6027 Ludlow Street, Unit A

215-748-6712

State Rep. Cherelle

Parker 200th Legislative District 1536 E. Wadsworth Ave. Phone: (215) 242-7300 Fax: (215) 242-7303 www.pahouse.com/Parker

Boulevard Safety Grants

State Sen. Mike Stack has announced another round of significant State funding that will help police officers enforce the traffic laws along Roosevelt Boulevard.

The Philadelphia Police Dept. recently received $199,978 from the Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation for the Roosevelt Boulevard Accident Reduction Initiative.

The grant will target traffic enforcement along 12.5 miles of Roosevelt Boulevard, from 9th Street to the County line.

This is the sixth consecutive year that the initiative will receive this funding.

“This annual funding continues to allow our Police Officers with the means to protect motorists and pedestrians from unlawful drivers,” Stack said. “Although many improvements have been made to increase safety over the years, Roosevelt Boulevard continues to pose tremendous traffic challenges to the Philadelphia Police Dept., PennDOT and other agencies charged with keeping our streets safe. That’s why I’m pleased that, once again, they’re going to reState Rep. 195th District 2839 W. Girard Ave. Phila. PA 19130

215-684-3738 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

Candidate In 2010

Tartaglione 2nd Dist.

127 W. Susquehanna Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19122

1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19124

215-291-4653

215-533-0440

Best Wishes for a

Merry Christmas and

Happy New Year!

Please contact my office for assistance with state programs and services during the holiday season and New Year

8016 Bustleton Avenue Philadelphia PA 19152 215-695-1020 State Senator

JOHN SABATINA JR.

Larry Farnese

REP. BRENDAN F. BOYLE 7215 B. Rising Sun Ave.

First Senate District

Phila. PA 19111 • P (215)-342-1700

Tel. 215-952-3121

14230 Bustleton Ave.

1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145

Phila.PA 19116 • P (215) 676-0300

www.Darylfor175.com

www.SenatorFarnese.com

Open Mon. - Fri. 9:00 AM - 5 PM

Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT

www.phillyrecord.com

For District 175

215-468-1515

174th District State Representative 8100 Castor Ave Phila, PA 19152 Hours: 9am to 5pm Telephone: 215-342-6204

Senator Tina

Parkwood Shopping Center 12361 Academy Road, Phila., PA 19154, 215-281-2539

Daryl La Fountain

1809 Oregon Ave, Phila., PA 19145

increased safety measures.”

During the 2008-09 funding year, Police Officers monitoring the Boulevard issued 4,339 tickets for traffic safety violations and arrested 39 people. They conducted 2,767 vehicle investigations and 212 pedestrian investigations and impounded 207 vehicles.

Frank Oliver

State Rep.

ROBERT C. DONATUCCI 185th District

ceive the funding to help them do their jobs.”

“We are pleased to secure grant funding to continue this important and effective initiative along Roosevelt Boulevard,” said State Rep. Mike McGeehan. “The reduction in accidents and property damage is second only to the lives that are saved through these

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

(Cont. From Page 4) moderate-income communities, as well as a long-term strategic plan to address any lending disparities disclosed in an annual study. It eliminated three banks for noncompliance. Goode’s Living Wage & Benefits Enforcement Ordinance now empowers City Council to bring debarment charges against City contractors for failure to comply with the City’s minimum wage and health-care benefits standard. Goode’s Economic Opportunity Enforcement Ordinance similarly empowers City Council to bring charges against City contractors who do not make good efforts to implement economic-opportunity plans.

He says he’s just interested in good-government practices. His legislation indicates that is so.

Although Goode led the list of at-Large Council candidates in 2007, to run an effective Mayoral race he might have to develop a more-dynamic personal campaign style.

But his successful legislative efforts to date make him a major attraction for those who might be willing to fund what could become an extremely tough battle to unseat Mayor Nutter.

Page 5

Wagner Adds More Delegates Stack, McGeehan Laud

Page 6 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Shoes And Socks A Priority (Cont. From Page 1) drive for donations of shoes and socks.

The items were collected at five satellite sites.

Since 1998, the Elizah Shirley Women’s Shelter has been the main recipient.This year recipients were found at the Salvation Army and Rowan Homes.

Studies indicate items most needed by poor families and individuals are socks and shoes.

Rev. John Roberts, special assistant to the Sheriff, who coordinated the drive, said, “We serve God by serving one another.”

JEANETTE HILL GREEN, no relation to the sheriff, receives a foot check up from Dr. Youssef Kabbni, prior to picking up her new set of shoes.

Photo by Donald Terry

UNDERSHERIFF Constance Little, center, supervised shoe giveaway aided

by State Reps.

Harold James, W. Curtis T h o m a s , Deputy Paris Washington and Catherine A. Hicks.

Photo Terry

by

Donald

STAFFERS ON HAND from Sheriff’s office to help with distribution of shoes were Harold James, Wanda Davis, Paris Washington, Catherine Hicks, Dr. & Mrs. Youssef Kabbani, Tien Daug, Monica Hawkins and Rev. John Photo by Donald Terry Roberts.

H U G E BOX of stockings and stocks held by Chief of Staff Barbara Deeley are among inventory of shoes and socks collected by Sheriff J o h n Green.

Vets Need Clothing An effort to help homeless veterans has gotten underway at the Broad Street Ministry at 315 S. Broad Street.

This organization welcomes all homeless and provides a welcoming place to get off the street, relax in a safe, welcoming atmosphere and get something to eat.

A major need is for clothing, not just for homeless veterans, but for all the homeless who avail themselves of Broad Street Ministry services. Clothing will be accepted at the Ministry at 315 S. Broad Street any week day. Further information can be had by calling (215) 7354847.

Happy Holidays and

Happy New Year www.phillyrecord.com

For All Philadelphians

Robert Brady Congressman 1st District Paid for by Committee to Elect Bob Brady

Philadelphia Regional Port Authority

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

SINCE 1990

Page 7

PROUDLY MANAGING PENNSYLVANIA’S INTERNATIONAL SEAPORT The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority wishes the hard-working men and women in the port industry, and all of our loyal friends and supporters, a happy and healthy holiday season!

John H. Estey, Esq. Chairman

James T. McDermott, Jr. Executive Director

Robert C. Blackburn

Senior Deputy Executive Director

John F. Dempsey

Deputy Executive Director www.phillyrecord.com

Administrative Offices: 3460 N. Delaware Ave. 2nd Fl., Phila., PA 19134 (215) 426-2600 • Fax (215) 426-6800 www.philaport.com

Page 8 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

MERRY CHRISTMAS &

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

State Rep. Mike McGeehan

www.phillyrecord.com

7731 Frankford Ave • Phila PA 19136 215-333-9760

Page 9

Our Opinion ...

It’s ‘Merry Christmas’ To…

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

ANOTHER OPINION

Buy American For Christmas

by Michael Blichasz Over the last week, I received numerous contacts from people reporting on their experiences shopping for the holidays. The majority of people expressed major disappointment in not being able to find toys, clothing, decorations and traditional holiday gifts made in the USA. People are asking me if I can recommend stores featuring American-made items. Unfortunately, I don’t have a quick and simple answer to that question. It’s a matter of taking the time to check out as many stores as possible in order to support quality American-made products, which you will be

proud to give as a gift.

Shopping for the holidays forces us to support products made in foreign countries due to the imbalance of American-made and foreign-made items being sold in our stores. Furthermore, when these gifts are opened, recipients, especially those who may be currently unemployed, will be reminded Americans were not employed making these gift items.

When I first spoke up about supporting Americanmade items and American workers, people told me things were good in the American job market and I should not try to convince people to feel otherwise.

The fact is the American job market is not good. At this point, we can’t change history, but you and I can join together to make positive changes possible by spending our money on American-made items when we shop.

I recently heard some interesting statistics on a radio program. The caller stated the US now has thousands of empty factories, thousands of shipping trucks no longer being used, thousands of machine shops not producing new machinery for manufacturing businesses and millions of American workers who are unemployed.

Let’s not permit this to continue. Let’s spend our money wisely and speak up so store owners, sales clerks and cashiers know that American consumers want a balance between Americanmade and foreign-made products. Only you, the consumer, can make positive changes happen through your purchasing power.

Jan. 2- Vaird Fdn. hosts Read and Lead at P.O. Vaird Boys & Girls Club, 4800 Whitaker Ave., 12 p.m.

Feb. 1- Tom Johnson hosts Brady Bunch Winter “Ski” Party at Finnigan’s Wake. 69 p.m.

Feb. 10- Germantown Republican Club hosts Attorney General Tom Corbett as guest of honor at 121st annual dinner at Union League, 6 p.m. Tickets $65. For info Jack Morley (215) 389-1768.

Feb. 20- Annual National Italian American-PAC Carnevale at Loews Phila. Hotel, 1200 Market St., 6 p.m.-12 a.m. Honorees Sal Patti, Anthony Cagano, Lorraine Ranalli and Donna M. Fluehr.

Apr. 17- Ducky Birts annual Medallion Awards Banquet at 1st Dist. Plaza, 3801 Market St., 6:30 p.m. Tickets $65 each, two for $100.

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Our advertisers and readers, of course,without whom we don’t exist.

To Mayor Michael Nutter and his besieged administrative hierarchy, doing their best to learn how this City’s citizens expect their government to function.

To our row-office officials and their dedicated staffs, including Commission Chair Margaret Tartaglione, and Commissioners Joe Duda and Anthony Clark, who have made voting an easy mission for citizens.

To Sheriff John Green, Undersheriff Connie Little and Chief of Staff Barbara Deeley, for keeping all on the home front abreast with Sheriff’s Sales, and for helping distressed Philadelphians save their homes from foreclosure.

To Register of Wills Ron Donatucci, for making the probating of wills and the obtaining of marriage licenses easy.

To Clerk of Courts Vivian Miller, for keeping the court files moving.

To City Council President Anne Verna, who has set a record with her years of yeoman service, and the members of City Council, those with long histories and those with just one term under their belts.

To our State Senators and Representatives, who do their best to bring home Philadelphia’s share of tax revenue, often after much battling and with a great deal of hustle.

To our three Congress Members, for what they do for us in Washington, D.C., making sure we get the Federal revenue we deserve: Bob Brady (the peacemaker and strike mediator), Chaka Fattah (the educator) and Allyson Schwartz.

To our two US Senators, Arlen Specter and Bob Casey, working in tandem to bring us what they can.

To the ward leaders of both the Democratic and Republican political parties in this city and their respective leaders, Chairmen Bob Brady and Vito Canuso, Esq. To the unions in this city, both big and small, and to their great leaders who work hard to make sure their members earn decent, family-sustaining wages.

To Pat Eiding, president of the AFL-CIO, and Pat Gillespie, president of the Building Trades, for their businesslike pragmatism.

To Laborers District Council, for its daily concern for the rank and file and the communities which make up this city.

To Carl Greene, executive director of the Philadelphia Housing Authority, for bringing modern, decent housing to the needy of this town with over 80,000 residents; and to TSSI, the residents’ representative, headed by Asia Coney.

To Philadelphia Regional Port Authority’s James T. McDermott and his staff, for moving the Port forward as it strives to provide more jobs and income to the city.

To Vince Fenerty, chief of Philadelphia Parking Authority, for getting us cleaner cabs and for keeping traffic moving through the city.

To Delaware River Port Authority’s John Estey, for keeping the rates where they are and for the bridges that look brighter and better.

To the brave and conscientious public-safety workers who put their lives on the line every day and night (including this Christmas Eve and Day) to keep the rest of us from harm.

To the leaders of communities of faith, who collectively labor to bind our communities together, to tackle the problems and the sufferings of the less-fortunate, and to remind us all to find spiritual meaning and purpose in all our holidays.

To those tycoons of the private sector who apply their fortunes to philanthropy, boldly meeting urgent social needs and thereby making our city a better place to live.

And last but not least, to those we should have mentioned, but failed to because of our fleeting memory.

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The Public Record • December 24, 2009

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Today is Christmas Eve. And believe it or not, I haven’t even started my shopping yet.

It’s not like I didn’t want to. Every year I say I’m not going to be running around looking for last-minute deals on Christmas Eve. I say I’m going to get my shopping done early, be more organized about it, and have all my gifts wrapped, cookies baked, and other things put together by Christmas Eve. But at least this year, I have an excuse. I can say the economy was the Grinch who messed up my Christmas. In fact, it has probably messed up everyone’s.

I walked around South Philadelphia this year and I didn’t see as many of the spectacular light displays as I’m used to seeing around town. Rittenhouse Square almost didn’t have a light display this year due to finances.

I didn’t even know the City had had a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony. It wasn’t much publicized, I think.

I’ve talked to a lot of my friends this holiday season and many of them aren’t doing much of the Christmas thing this year. They’re buying gifts for family, emphasizing the kids most of all, and they’re not trying to spend a whole lot.

While this bit of news is probably not music to the ears of retailers, it may bring us closer to something that we haven’t seen in decades: the true meaning of Christmas.

For me, at least this year, Christmas is more about connecting with folks than it is about gifts of any kind. It’s about finding my family and friends and spending as much time with them as I possibly can, because I don’t know what the (Cont. Page 35)

The saying goes: “Don’t do as I do, do as I say.” If you take note of it, you now have a very good description of what the Republicans in Congress mean by “bipartisanship”. The health plan sponsored by the Democrats passed with the 60 Democrats in the Senate voting for it and the 40 Republicans voting against it – that’s right, every single Republican voted no.

This, when the polls were showing 80% of the people are in agreement there is a need for a government-sponsored health plan.

An observation on the great state of Arkansas is very curious. On the recent political scene, there have been three Presidential candidates who (at one time or another) came from Arkansas: MIKE HUCKABEE, HILLARY CLINTON and BILL CLINTON. This is pretty good for a state which ranks 49th per person in annual income.

Here is another interpretation of “high crimes and misdemeanors”, which is the standard for in an impeachment proceeding. At the Federal level, in the case of President Bill Clinton, the special counsel was only able, after spending $70 million delving into the Clinton’s private life, to come up with the indiscretion with MONICA LEWINSKI which took place in Washington, D.C., as a “high crime and misdemeanor”. Impeachment is the equivalent of indictment. The House of Representatives, then Republican-led, based the impeachment of Bill Clinton on the circumstances of that event.

That was then. This is now. Today’s Republicans in South Carolina apparently believe MARK SANFORD’S using State funds to fly to Argentina to meet with his girlfriend and absenting himself from his duties as Governor for a tryst was not a set of facts justifying impeachment under the South Carolina Constitution.

Evidentially (as lawyers say), sex in Argentina is not as criminal as sex is in Washington, D.C., especially if you are a Republican.

While we are visiting the realm of hypocrisy, how about the Republicans in 2008, who, under the Bush administration, had doubled the national debt, established that the costs of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq be handled outside the government’s operating budget, and flung away almost $800 billion to bail out the Wall Street banks – and then started complaining, after leaving their mess to the Democrats, that the Democrats were tax-and-spend, (Cont. Page 35)

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Yo! Here we go again, on the subject of Sunday dinner for Italians. Italians have a $40,000 kitchen, but use the $259 stove from Sears in the basement to cook.

Heaven forbid if anyone ever attempted to eat Chef Boy-Ar-Dee, Franco-American, Ragu, Prego or anything else in a jar or can (tomato paste is the exception). Meatballs are made with pork, veal and beef. We are Italians; we don’t care about cholesterol.

Turkey is served on Thanksgiving or Christmas, after the manicotti, gnocchi, lasagna and soup. If anyone ever says “escarole”, slap ‘em in the face; it is pronounced “ska-role”, and if they ever say “Italian Wedding Soup”, let the idiot know there is no Wedding Soup, nor is there an Italian in the soup. Also, the tiny meatballs must be made by hand.

No matter how certainly you were going to get smacked, you still came home from church after communion, you stuck half of an Italian roll in the sauce pot, snuck out a fried meatball and chow it down. You’ll make up for it next week at confession.

Sunday dinner was at 1:00 p.m. The meal went like this: Table is set with everyday dishes. Doesn’t matter if they don’t match; they’re clean – what more do you want?

All the utensils go on the right side of the plate and the napkin goes on the left. Put a clean kitchen towel at Nonno & Papa’s plate because they won’t use napkins. Homemade wine and bottles of 7-Up are on the table.

First course, antipasto; change plates. Next, macaroni (Nonna called all spaghetti macaroni); change plates. After that, roasted meats, roasted potatoes, and over-cooked vegetables -- change plates. Then, and only then (never at the beginning of the meal), would you eat the salad (homemade oil-and-vinegar dressing only); change plates.

Next, fruit and nuts in the shell (on paper plates because you ran out of the other ones). Coffee with anisette is served (espresso for Nonno, “Med-i-can” coffee for the rest) with hard cookies (biscotti) to dip in the coffee. The kids go play; the men go to lie down. The women clean the kitchen.

True Italians will love this; those of you who are married to Italians will understand this; and those of you who are friends with Italians will remember and will forward it to their Italian friends.

SNOOPER’S SPECIAL MESSAGE: Before I begin with this week’s contributions, let me do this first. On behalf of all our wonderful professional personnel here at THE PUBLIC RECORD NEWSPAPER, let us wish all of you a HOLY and HAPPY HOLIDAY, and may you get everything you wanted for CHRISTMAS. The PUBLISHER, THE EDITOR and all our professional REPORTERS sincerely hope you all have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and, let us add, A HAPPY NEW YEAR! SNOOPER’S NEWS BUREAU: THE SMELL-O-GATE here in SOUTH PHILADELPHIA. I have two reliable sources that gave me what they know about these SMELLS. One tells me he actually saw an airplane dump fuel over the water as they were coming in for a landing at The Philadelphia Airport. The other tells me of a few leaks he knows about that have happened at THE SUNOCO REFINING STATION. Everyone agrees THE SMELL is that of FUEL and it’s everywhere you go, even near The Wachovia and also in PACKER PARK. SNOOPER UPDATE: “The Party of The Year”, hosted by The Prothonotary HON. JOSEPH EVERS, was a tremendously successful event. Whew, I spotted just about anyone who was somebody there. The President Judge of The Common Pleas Court, HON. PAMELA PRYOR DEMBE, was there, along with The President Judge “Emeritus” HON. FREDERICA MASSIAH JACKSON. Yes, a lot of very prominent OFFICIALS showed up for this annual event. The Prothonotary wants to personally thank all his professional employees, who actually helped in making this another huge (Cont. Page 34)

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

In the week leading up to Christmas, local Elephants were out and about at several locations celebrating the holidays.

Billed as a “Ward Leaders and Candidates Only” event, the Philly GOP hosted its annual Christmas party at Cannstatter in Northeast Philadelphia. Joining the leadership team of MIKE MEEHAN and VITO CANUSO were several active ward leaders. City Commissioner and 66TH WARD LEADER JOE DUDA was there, along with 27TH WARD LEADER MATT WOLFE and 16TH WARD LEADER AUDRA BUTTS, to name a few. A welcome sight was former City Controller candidate AL SCHMIDT. The Loyal Opposition hosted its Christmas reception as well. Wolfe’s University City home played host to the event, which was well attended. LO PRESIDENT MARC COLLAZZO and State GOP official JOE DeFELICE were in attendance, with Ward Leaders Butts, PHIL INNAMORATO, JERRY BROWN, LINDA KERNS and ANDY GENTSCH. LO stalwarts PAM WARREN and LINDA ORR were working the door. Later in the week, in the midst of Saturday’s snow storm, Wolfe hosted his personal Christmas Party which was attended by former Congressional candidate ADAM LANG and former State Senate candidate GERRY FELDMAN. The Philly Young Republicans hosted a Christmas Party at Paddy Whacks at 2nd & South this Sunday. The YR Board was represented by President WALLY ZIMOLONG, events chairwoman MARA TOUKATLY and board member MATT GABOR. DAVE KRALLE, aide to STATE REP. DENNY O’BRIEN, was in attendance with Lang and Ward Leaders Cibik, Wolfe and Brown. GOP activists (Cont. Page 35)

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AMONG CITIZENS “served” by Prothonotary Joseph Evers is former President Judge Frederica Massiah-Jackson, at Evers’s Christmas Party in City Hall. recorded instantaneously.

All the vital subsequent steps that legal actions take are likewise immediate and available online.

Civil law is big business.

Billions of dollars of commercial transactions are processed by the Prothonotary’s Office. The affairs of countless families that are touched by divorce or other legal changes rely on swift,

accurate, safe and accessible record-keeping by this Office.

Like other branches of City government, the Prothonotary’s Office is under the gun, budget-wise. “In the last couple of years, we have reduced our staff from 80 to 52,” Evers says. Yet its work is faster and better than ever, thanks to technological advances.

“We have been recognized by national authorities as part of one of the best civil-law systems in the country,” Evers relates.

The beleaguered criminallaw wing of the 1st Judicial Dist., where records are in disarray, is now studying the Prothonotary’s work to find out what lessons it can apply to its own challenges.

“Every filing in our Office represents a citizen with a problem,” Evers says. “I tell all my staff we owe every filing the maximum courtesy, speed, accuracy and service.”

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

by Tony West It has been a landmark year in the Office of the Prothonotary of Philadelphia. After years of planning, its boss Joseph Evers instituted general electronic filing for civil legal cases in the County. The results have been nothing less than breathtaking.

Since then, the Prothonotary has saved $250,000.

“We’re saving $6,000 a month in file folders alone,” Evers notes proudly.

Time is also money, and electronic filing is making major changes in the handling of legal business.

When Evers began his service as Prothonotary in 1995, everything – all papers, all dockets, all records – were received, circulated and stored on paper. “A large law firm might turn in 30 actions a day,” Evers explains. “In the old days, it could take us two days just to get them all on record.”

Today, these filings are

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Evers ‘Sets’ New Records

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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW Term No. 091001528 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE CITIMORTGAGE INC. S/B/M ABN AMRO MORTGAGE GROUP INC. S/B/M ATLANTIC MORTGAGE & INVESTMENT CORPORATION Plaintiff vs.

LINDA A. JEFFRIES-HUNTER, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of DARNELL O. GREEN, Deceased & UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DARNELL O. GREEN Mortgagors and Real Owners Defendant TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DARNELL O. GREEN, MORTGAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 1709 South Yewdall Street Philadelphia, PA 19143.

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 CITIMORTGAGE INC. S/B/M ABN AMRO MORTGAGE GROUP INC. S/B/M ATLANTIC MORTGAGE & INVESTMENT CORPORATION, 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. 091001528 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1709 South Yewdall Street Philadelphia, PA 19143 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 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 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 19107 215-238-6333 Michael T. McKeever Attorney for Plaintiff Goldbeck McCafferty & McKeever, PC Suite 5000, Mellon Independence Center 701 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS Philadelphia COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW ACTION OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE Term No. 091103704 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WELLS FARGO BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR DELTA FUNDING HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2000-3 Plaintiff vs.

UMBRENDA HERRINGTON FISHER, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Kenneth Herrington, Deceased & UNKNOWN HEIRS OF KENNETH HERRINGTON, DECEASED Mortgagors and Real Owners Defendant UNKNOWN HEIRS OF KENNETH HERRINGTON, DECEASED, MORTAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 1928 West Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19132.

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 WELLS FARGO BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR DELTA FUNDING HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2000-3, 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. 091103704 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1928 West Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19132 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia.

NOTICE You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claim in the Complaint of for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.

YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE. 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 19104 215-238-6333 Michael T. McKeever Attorney for Plaintiff Goldbeck McCafferty & McKeever, PC Suite 5000, Mellon Independence Center 701 Market Street • Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322

Local 98 Plays Santa

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

LOCAL 57 Business Manager Walt Higgins, his staff, along with Santa Claus, presented members with their annual Christmas gifts.

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Santa Gifts Members at Local 57

IBEW LOCAL 98 distributed hundreds of Christmas toys to some of the neediest families in City on Tuesday. Union members volunteered to drive toys to families accross Delaware valley. The drivers picked up green boxes from Apprentice Center at 3rd & Jackson Streets in S. Phila. Apprentice Training Director Mike Neill, Michelle Procopio, “Uncle Bill”, John “Pocket Ball” McGuckin, Public Relations & Marketing Coordinator Ed McBride, Business Agent Larry DelSpechio and Sandy DeMuro helped orchestrate massive toy-distribution effort.

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bers of Officers took multiweek vacations. The award mandates during their first five years of service, new Officers will be entitled to only one week during the peak summer vacation period. This should save 1,000 weeks of summer vacation during the contract period.

In addition, Police Supervisors will have more flexibility in manpower scheduling, with new language that allows them to change the starting time for an Officer’s shift without triggering special overtime charges.

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more psychological, though.

Knowing that you have freedom to move out of the city is a plus, but you’re not going to see a mass exodus.

“The members are absolutely happy about this contract. One of them told me, ‘If this was a baseball game, it might not be a home run but it would be a stand-up triple.”

Bill Gault, president of IAFF Local 22, commented, “The goals of the Fire Fighter’s Union and the goals of the Fire Fighters of Philadelphia is to ensure the safety of members, residents, property and the men and women employed in Philadelphia. We do our jobs every day regardless of climate, weather or City Administration.

“We will continue to seek economic parity with others who put their lives on the line to protect the public. We will continue to seek proper and adequate health and pension benefits for the people who are universally regarded and hailed as heroes – except when it is contract time.

The FOP and its members are heroes in their own right. But their challenges are different from our challenges. If justice prevailed, all heroes would be better protected and rewarded by those we serve.”

Turning to pension costs: For the first time in history, the City will move to a hybrid pension plan for new employees, shifting some cost and risk from taxpayers to the employee recipients of these benefits. New Police Officers will have a choice: they can remain in the current pension plan but they must assume a 20% increase in their rate of withholding from their paychecks – from 5% to 6%.

By March 2010, the arbitration panel will order the City to create a new hybrid pension plan that offers a defined benefit pension with a reduced benefit coupled with a defined contribution investment vehicle. This plan must be designed in a way to save as much taxpayer dollars as the utilization of the old plan by new police hires.

Work-rule changes are also ordered. For years, the Police Dept. has faced problems with coverage and fiscal stress during the higher-crime summer months as large num-

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

The Fraternal Order of Police and the City of Philadelphia have a contract.

Arbitrators have designed a five-year contract that is a sharp break from the past. It makes significant changes to work rules and provides the City the right to furlough employees.

The term of the contract is five years, retroactive to last Jul. 1.

Unlike awards in the past, some of which appeared to split incrementally the difference between two opposing parties, this award creates a significant shift by calling for more employee contributions to their health-care and pension benefits.

The City’s monthly per employee contribution to the FOP health and welfare fund will decrease by $200, from $1,165 to $965, starting on Jan. 1 and for the remainder of the fiscal year ending Jun. 30.

This amounts to a 26% decrease from the $1,303 the City paid just two years ago. It’s also $10 less than the current monthly payments to the City’s blue- and white-collar unions.

In the final half of this fiscal year, the City will save $10 million. This approach is a big win for the Nutter administration, which desperately needs to rein in pension liabilities.

The arbitrators’ award requires the FOP to move to a self-insurance model that focuses on the payment of actual bills instead of paying an insurance company a set amount, which may or may not be used by an employee in a given month. The award also requires employees to increase their co-pays for prescription and doctor visits.

FOP President John McNesby said, “This contract was a long time coming but it was worth the wait. The contract was good for both sides. It had some positives for the City and some positives for the FOP. The main victories for our members are our pension plan, which we continue to have; our medical coverage, which is the best in the country, which we continue to have; and wage increases, which we got.

“And for an unexpected sweetener,” he added, “the residency requirement for Officers was eased. Its impact is

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City-Police Split Decision

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sylvania.

Bishop said her legislation (HB 2082) would also establish an adoption registry and formulate specific procedures for releasing identifying and non-identifying information to birth

parents, adult siblings and adult adoptees.

“My legislation would establish better guidelines for people who adopt children and for the children who are adopted,” Bishop said.

Lentz has donated winter jackets for homeless veterans in the Philadelphia region to the Philadelphia Veterans MultiService and Education Center, located at 213 N. 4th Street.

Lentz collected more than 100 coats at his Swarthmore

constituent-service office to help keep homeless veterans warm this winter. He added that veterans represent more than 30% of Philadelphia’s homeless population.

The coat drive is part of an effort by the Philadelphia Vet-

erans Multi-Service & Education Center, which helps homeless veterans receive housing, hot meals, job placement, computer training, legal counseling, and psychiatric and drug and alcohol counseling.

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

State Rep. Louise Williams Bishop has drafted legislation that would provide more protection and permanency for adopted children and ensure more finality in the adoption process in Penn-

Lentz Donates Winter Coats To Vets

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Bishop’s Bill To Aid Adopted Children

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Page 24 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Tartaglione Wants Answers To Joaquin Rivera’s Death State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione has asked State health officials to quickly determine how a man died in a hospital emergency room without staff noticing.

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“I have asked the State Dept. of Health conduct their investigation into the tragic death of Joaquin Rivera with all possible urgency,” Tartaglione said. “It is imperative we act quickly to protect the lives of Philadelphians and to restore their confidence in a hospital that has provided quality health-care and civic support to the community for more than a century.”

State Health Dept. officials said they are investigating whether hospital procedures and regulations were followed.

“The Department has informed me their investigation is actively proceeding and the results will be made public at its conclusion,” Tartaglione said. “I will continue to monitor the progress of the investigation and discuss its progress with the Department.”

State officials could levy fines, impose sanctions and take other corrective measures to assure emergency-room patients are properly cared for, Tartaglione said.

“Mr. Rivera was a popular

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Philadelphians

Alan Butkovitz City Controller

and prominent member of our community, whose life was a model for others,” she added.

“His death leaves a void which no one can fill and brings sadness to the City,” Tartaglione said. “I ask for an urgent investigation for Rivera’s family and for every citizen of this City, this State and this country. They all have a right to expect a higher standard from our health-care system.”

MEET YOUR Favorite Babies of 2009! Philadelphia Public Record presented awards saluting the cutest babies of 2009, as voted by our readers, at ceremony at PNC Bank at Navy Yard.

Our two winners: Mariah Rose Mendez and Delano Roberts, center, are surrounded by best-placed babies and their families.

Two winners each received $100 plus a $50 PNC bank savings bond. Our bestplaced winners each received $25 check.

Photo by Leaping Lion Photography, Marty Regusters

THE WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALERS OF PHILADELPHIA 3425 S. Lawrence Street Food Distribution Center Philadelphia PA 19148

neighborhoods, working eight hours a day, to participate in toy and clothing drives, feed the homeless and visit schools. The tour will conclude with a fashion show that will feature his clothing line “Punchline”, the proceeds from which will be donated to State Rep. Kenyatta John-

son’s “Peace not Guns” program. Most of the funds used to operate the “12 Rounds of Christmas” are from Simon’s own pocket.

Carr lived up to his nickname when he turned professional in January 2006, knocking out Gary Jones in the first round.

STATE SENATOR

CHRISTINE M. TARTAGLIONE

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Since then, Carr has progressed with his career while also dedicating as much time as possible to helping those who are less fortunate. Coming up the hard way himself, he says he has an added incentive to go out and give his time to help as many people as possible.

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

SIMON ‘ONE PUNCH’ CARR, pictured here with Mayor Michael Nutter, is going 12 rounds this holiday season.

It is the season of giving, and one Philadelphia professional boxer is doing just that. Simon “One Punch” Carr is going 12 rounds, but it won’t be inside the ring.

Carr is giving back to the community this holiday season with a holiday charity tour called the “12 Rounds of Christmas”. He has been touring various

One Punch Goes 12 Rounds

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Ringside With The Shadowboxer

1061 Bridge St. Phila. PA 19124 215-533-0440

Norris Square 127 W. Susquehanna Ave. Phila. PA 19122 215-291-4653

B & A Seafood

3419 S. Lawrence Street 215-336-0507 Fax 215-336-2874

Blue Crab Seafood Co. 3439-41 S. Lawrence Street 215-389-2583 Fax 215-389-8430

E. Frank Hopkins Co. 3427-37 S. Lawrence Street 215-468-9190 Fax 215-462-9950

Sanmuels & Son

3407-23 S. Lawrence Street 215-336-7810 Fax 215-462-9950

215.336.1051/52 Fax: 215.336.8908

Philadelphia PA 19148

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Emil Bucceroni Administrator

Page 26 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

LECET Plays Santa To Needy Youngsters

JUAN R. RAMOS, administrator of Laborers-Employers Cooperation & Education Trust, plays role of Santa Claus to youngsters as LECET hosted its annual toy and book giveaway, along with a special show by “Magic Man” Gregory Graham.

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ENJOYING reaction of youngsters at LECET’s annual Richard Legree Christmas toy and book gala were Andriec Hardy, Juan Ramos, Sam Staten, JR., and Corey Robinson.

SAM STATEN, JR., business manager of Local 332, and Juan Ramos of LECET inspect presents collected for N. Phila. youngsters before handing them out at LDC Hall.

Congress Team Pushes Dredging The Southeast Pennsylvania Congressional delegation, led

by Sen. Arlen Specter this week, reiterated its support for the Army Corps’ decision to proceed on deepening the Delaware River as the project faces the possibility of more delays. In a letter to Assistant Secretary of the Army Jo-Ellen Darcy, the Senators and Representatives touted the project as critical to the short- and longterm economic prosperity of ports along the river.

Signatories to the letter include Sens. Arlen Specter and

Bob Casey, and Congress Members Chaka Fattah, Robert A. Brady, Jim Gerlach, Allyson Schwartz, Joe Sestak and Patrick J. Murphy.

“This project will make maritime transportation more efficient and reduce shipping costs, thus creating business and employment opportunities at all of the ports along the Delaware River,” the united delegation wrote. “This project is both economically and environmentally sound, despite criticism that erroneously suggests otherwise.”

The latest economic study, which was commissioned by the Corps and accepted by the Government Accountability Office, found every dollar spent would result in a 15% return on investment to the economy as a whole. Careful investigation over more than a decade has found the project to be environmentally safe.

The letter, in part, read, “Authorized by Congress in 1992, this project will make maritime transportation more efficient and reduce shipping costs, thus creating business and employment opportunities at all of the ports along the Delaware River. This project is both economically and environmentally sound, despite criticism that erroneously suggests otherwise. The most-recent economic study, which was commissioned by the Corps and accepted by the Government Accountability Office, found that every dollar spent would yield a net benefit of $1.15. In addition, the Corps completed an Environmental Assessment in April of 2009 which concluded that the project will have a minimal environmental impact.”

COMING out to show their support for Judge Richard “Flash” Gordon are, seated, Rod Jackson, Nancy Cornaglia and Maria Mancuso. Standing next to Judge are Danny Tobin and Tony Soda.

Photo by Harry Leech.

DEMOCRAT LEADERS showing their support flank Judge Richard Gordon, center, at affair in his honor. From left are Matt Myers, State Rep. John Sabatina, Ozzie Myers, William Dolbow, Sean Dillon and Bob Dellavella.

Parking Authority Elves Help Santa

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

ENJOYING festivities at PRPA Christmas ILA Local 1291 head Boise Butler shares Party were Vince Borelli and Republican moment with Terminal operator Tom Holt Counsel Michael Meehan. and Herb Packer.

Page 27

PRPA Hosts Port, Officials Supporters Fete Flash

DEPUTY Executive Director Bob BlackPORT ACTIVITIES were topic of conver- burn, left, and Executive Director James T. sation for Bob Borski, Dennis Rockford and McDermott, right, flank guests Scotty Jack Dempsey.

Creelman and Dennis Grubb.

PHILADELPHIA Parking Authority ‘s Ex. Director Vince Fenerty, left, checks over list with staffers as they begin to stock vans for trips to needy families.

ONE OF PPA Vans, loaded with toys donated by PPA employees, gets final check from Santa.

PARKING Authority elves gather for this Merry Christmas wave to all of you and to the children who received new toys and games.

READY TO SEND off this van packed with toys is another of Santa’s PPA elevs.

SHARING a moment are Gregory Ianna- DRS TERMINAL operator Bob Palaima relli, Esq., Donna Powell, Don Brennan and meets up with Teamsters International VP Shawn Dougherty and Chuck Farthing.

Phyllis Harris.

FORMER River Pilots President Mike LinCOMMUNICATIONS Director Joe Menta ton, his wife Susan, State Sen. Joe Loeper has pretty company of Marian Simpson, and Mary Rita D’Allesandroni were among honored guests.

Susan McDevitt and Lisa Magee.

Phillies In Baseball Production

From left, David Montgomery, Sam Katz, Viki Sand (CEO of the Atwater Kent Museum), Jimmy Rollins and Mayor Michael Nutter examine some Phillies items. Katz showed a web-isode of history of baseball in Phila., featuring voiceover by Jimmy Rollins.

Photo by Bonnie Squires Photo by Bonnie Squires

ENTERING in honorary procession in Women Veterans Day Tribute are, from left, Penna. veterans Delores Sapp, Laura Elam-Nurse, Tracey Blackwell, Doris Thomas and Lauren Wiles.

HONOREE Lt. Alfeia Goodwin, left, and Women Veterans leader Cathy Santos, right, stand proud with honor guard at annual Women Veterans Day Tribute at The View Photo by Donald Terry on N. Broad Street.

www.phillyrecord.com

STATE REP. Jim Roebuck presented citation to Jimmy Rollins from legislature as Rollins donated his uniform and Phillies artifacts to Atwater Kent Museum of Phila. at event created by Sam Katz.

Women Veterans Celebrated

Page 28 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Jannie Blackwell Hosts Needy Annually

(Cont. From Page 1) locally knitted mittens and scarves; State Reps. Vanessa Lowery Brown, Ron Waters and Cherelle Parker hosted seniors at Christmas luncheons.

Local unions gave toys and dinners to needy members and families. These included LECET, the various locals of LDC 332, with the Metropolitan Regional Council of Carpenters, and IBEW Local 98 donating hundreds of toys.

The annual Blackwell dinner saw close to 5,000 individuals pass through the dinner lines at the Convention Center. Afterwards, the children went past long tables of toys, each marked for boys or girls according to age groups. There were close to 800 volunteers from Laborers District Council, Local 394, Local 690. Universities, businesses, Pennsylvania Housing Authority, Tenant Support Services, Inc. and the Fraternal Order of Police all donated bicycles.

The shy, pragmatic Councilwoman, who all year long feeds the hungry at special events, including her birthday, was quick to credit those who supported her, especially PHA Executive Director Carl R. Greene, and PHA Tenant Support Services, Inc., President Asia Coney. The PHA group put together several

thousand toys collected through the donations of their staffs, which, rather than distribute them as was usual, decided to give them to the Blackwell event for distribution to the needy.

KeVen Parker, her favorite caterer, was among the big donors as were Coca Cola, Aramark, Connie for Balloons, Tastykake, Lisa Downing, Keith Conrad, Abdul Samuels, Masco, Lu Toole, Luis Cruz, Terry McNair, Linebarger Law Offices, DRPA, School District, Brandywine Realty Trust, Bravo Group, Powelton Village Civic Association, Masonic Hall, the Temple Group, PFT, Drexel and Penn, SEPTA, State FOP, Penn Mutual, and WalMart, among others.

Blackwell also matches this event yearly to celebrate her birthday as she invites shelter families to join her for a birthday dinner on Dilworth Plaza.

“Any one of our organizations could act individually to support a particular event, but when we coordinate our efforts and work together we can produce a sum larger than the parts,” said Greene.

PHA, DRPA, SRC and PPA share overlapping interests in helping Philadelphia grow. Leaders of the four agencies have been discussing ways to leverage the knowl-

COUNCILWOMAN Jannie Blackwell is flanked by Maceo Cummings and her son Jeffrey Blackwell.

BOYS WILL BE BOYS as these two in foreground play with balloons, oblivious to excitement around them.

PHA/TSSI was represented by Asia Coney, Nellie Robinson and Jeanne Bund. edge, talent and experience Chairman John Estey, SRC within state and local public- Chairman Bob Archie and sector organizations to raise PPA Chairman Joe Ashdale awareness, expand advocacy for bringing added attention and improve funding for pub- to the needs of less-fortunate lic-service projects. citizens today. They helped The group’s first act of make this event even more service was to raise more than meaningful,” Blackwell said. $20,000 for the CouncilIt’s evident the City of woman’s 10th annual Holiday Philadelphia truly earns the Party for the Homeless. title of “City of Brotherly “I am extremely grateful Love” from the many Christto PHA Executive Director mas celebrations that focus on Carl Greene, DRPA Board the poor and needy.

COUNCILWOMAN Jannie Blackwell finds herself swarmed by happy guests.

Lines were long but nobody waited … and all got what they needed, with dinner for all and toys for the children, at this annual Christmas dinner by Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell.

www.phillyrecord.com

FELIZ NAVIDAD!

FELIZ NAVIDAD! Councilwoman Maria Quiñones SISTER Elaine George of Juniata Action Committee is Sánchez and State Rep. Angel Cruz team up to celebrate flanked by State Rep. Angel Cruz and Edwin Bobe at holiday party. holidays for third straight year.

HOSTING 3rd annual “Holiday Fiesta” party for constituents at Juniata Golf Foundation is Councilwoman Maria Quiñones Sánchez and State Rep. Angel Cruz.

City To Acquire Broadband

a major step forward for the city,” said Chief Technology Officer Allan Frank. “With this investment we will have the capability to build a robust public-safety and municipal network, enhancing public safety and government operations, at the same time achieving long-term savings for the taxpayer. This is a win-win for Philadelphia.”

With the build-out of this network, the City of Philadelphia will be a national model for how to operate and eco-

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spaces. NAC, the company that acquired the former EarthLink Wi-Fi network in the city of Philadelphia, is a private company.

The City is exercising an option, contained within an agreement signed in August 2009, to purchase the assets from NAC for the low price of $2 million.

“Acquiring these assets is

the net savings over the fiveyear period will total almost $350,000. Without acquiring these existing assets the City would have to spend in excess of $30 million and several more years in order to create from scratch a capability like this.

In order to complete the acquisition of the network assets, the transaction closing process may take as much as 150 days, including getting City Council approval for the transfer of 25 operating leases for the existing towers around the City, which host the wireless radio equipment.

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

The City of Philadelphia plans to purchase existing wireless-network assets from the Network Acquisition Company, the first in a series of steps towards creating a multi-purpose public-safety and municipal wireless network that will improve government operations as well as providing free internet to citizens in targeted public

investments to upgrade and build out the existing infrastructure. Over a five-year period from FY 2011 through FY 2015, the City would invest close to $17 million in Capital Funding to build out both its existing core fiber network as well as the wireless mesh network acquired from NAC. This initial investment will allow the City to realize close to $9 million in operating expenses over a five year period as well as significant other savings. By FY 2012, operational savings will outweigh expenses, and by FY 2015

Page 29

nomically leverage a broadband network for the benefit of its citizens.

In addition to City-government use, every effort will be made to reach out to other key City institutions to leverage the network to improve their services to Citizens. Already, discussions have begun around how the network can be used by local transportation and utilities for field use.

In order to build a public safety network and realize the full benefits of acquiring these wireless assets, the City would need to make capital

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The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Page 30

‘Smoking’ allowed at new Percy Street BBQ

by Len Lear Having grown up in a rowhouse in West Oak Lane, I am not exactly a barbecue aficionado. After all, our “backyard” at 17th & Conlyn Streets (near Broad & Olney) was a cement alley. I think I was in the 6th grade at Pennell ES before I knew what trees were. (I learned about them from a textbook.) The

number of picnics held in our “yard” could have been counted on no fingers.

On the other hand, my wife grew up in Port Arthur, Tex. (with future rock music legend Janis Joplin), on the Gulf Coast, where some babies were probably raised on barbecued beef instead of breast milk. So when it comes to Texas barbecue, she is very much in favor of smoking — not the kind of smoking that causes lung cancer but the kind that

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goes great with cold draft beer.

There are several barbecue restaurants in Philly, of course, but they tend to be more of the pulled-pork variety (originating in North and South Carolina) or with a thick, sweet sauce (originating in Memphis and Kansas City) or blackened (New Orleans). Texas barbecue, on the other hand, is usually put in a “smoker” for several hours and sold by the pound and is generally so tender the chef might be offended if you asked for a knife and fork.

Now, very casual restaurants seem to be all the rage these days in Philly, with the recent influx of gastropubs and burger places unweaving the city’s restaurant rainbow.

Even the upscale mavens José Garces and Stephen Starr have recently opened burger and pizza joints, respectively.

So we were anxious to put on some jeans and mosey on down the road a piece to say, “Howdy do” to the Percy

Len Lear Street Barbecue, which was opened in mid-November at 9th & South Streets by owner/chefs Stephen Cook, Michael Solomonov and Erin O’Shea.

Cook and Solomonov also own Xochitl (Mexican) and Zahav (Israeli), which was selected by Philadelphia Magazine as its choice for the best restaurant in the city for 2009. O’Shea, formerly of Marigold Kitchen in University City, once lived in South Texas for 10 years, so this is not her first rodeo (so to speak) with barbecue.

An exhaustive study was

done early this month on the different barbecued meats at Percy Street Barbecue. (The previous tenant in the building was Crescent City, a Cajun restaurant that lasted about as long as a cup of coffee.) The study, which found all of the meats to be messy and nasty but finger-lickin’ delicious, was conducted by the University of My Eyeballs and My Tastebuds.

Now, smoking meat can apparently be a tricky business. If the meat is overcooked, the smoky taste could easily overpower the flavor of the meat. My wife, the native Texan, says that they pulled it off at Percy Street — just enough smoky flavor, fall-offthe-bone tenderness, moist and messy. In fact, before the food comes out, a busboy delivers a roll of paper towels and attaches it to the table in a sort of vise. It would have probably turned us off if he had also delivered a bottle of Pepto-Bismol.

The moist brisket

($11/half-pound) really blew my blouse up, followed closely by the spare ribs ($12/half-pound), housemade sausage ($9/half-pound) (Cont. Page 32)

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plied with certain government standards.

The trial bar has poured millions over the past few months into a national advertising and public-relations campaign to protect their right to sue doctors any time, for

visions could be used by personal-injury lawyers to claim a doctor failed to comply with “best-practices” guidelines and become the basis for medical-malpractice lawsuits.

If the bill becomes law, not a day will go by when a physician will meet all the administrative and regulatory processes Congress proposes.

Doctors will be exposed to many frivolous liability lawsuits, based not on how they treated their patients, but instead on whether they com-

those who take care of Federally elected officials.

Attorneys are both board certified by the American Bankruptcy Certification Board.

Chapters 7/13 & Stop foreclosures, creditors harassments, lawsuits, garnishments, and sheriff sales.

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by Michael Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: More reasons why short sales usually are a bad idea.

Answer: You may owe taxes as the result of a short sale. Therefore, you could receive a 1099-C IRS form as the result of a short sale on the difference between what you owe and what the mortgage lender agrees to accept.

This amount is considered income, and you need to pay

Flu Email Faked The Pennsylvania Dept. of Health urges computer users not to open a fraudulent email claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which asks them to create a “personal H1N1 vaccination profile.”

Anyone receiving this email should delete it immediately.

The fraudulent email links to a

any reason. And they fully intend to recover that money through jackpot medical-malpractice jury awards.

Maybe it’s time for every doctor in the country to go on vacation for a month, all at the same time – especially

fake website. Clicking on this link will install a malicious program on computers.

Some people coincidentally receive this email after registering for the Dept. of Health’s H1N1 vaccine clinics, but there is no relation. Pennsylvania’s system is safe and does not ask for any personal information beside your name.

taxes on it. There are some exceptions to this general rule, such as insolvency and certain types of mortgage debt, so check with your tax adviser first.

Also, the debt might not be forgiven. Although the lender agrees to release the lien, so that the property can be sold, their personal obligation is not released. In other words, the lender isn’t accepting the short sale amount as payment in full. This is particularly true of second mortgages.

215-735-1060

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

How do I sue thee? Let me count the (new) ways....

Former Texas Rep. Joe Nixon, who crafted the Lone Star State’s 2003 medicalmalpractice reforms, has uncovered dozens of new opportunities for trial lawyers to sue doctors in the proposed national health-care bill.

He says at least 26 sections in the House bill and 21 sections in Sen. Harry Reid’s bill require doctors adhere to new standards of care that do not now exist. Each of these pro-

MEDICAL RECORD

Page 31

Health Changes Could Be Lawsuit Bonanza

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Learn how to sense these energies so you are not taken by surprise.

Page 32 The Public Record • December 24, 2009 www.phillyrecord.com

Brady Brings Key Funding To Area With House and Senate passage of the FY2010 Omnibus Appropriation Act, $3.7 million in requested funding by Congressman Robert Brady is set to flow into Philadelphia and Delaware Cos. Brady was successful in winning critically needed funding to improve North Philadelphia’s historic Uptown Theater, job training by the Urban League, and transportation improvements for the Philadelphia Art Museum in which he was joined by colleague Chaka Fattah.

The Congressman also won nearly $1 million in violenceprevention funding. And on the heels of tensions at South Philadelphia HS, he was able to secure $100,000 for the Main Line Chinese Culture Center for after-school and weekend programs at the Russell Byers Charter School.

The funding allocations also includ: a Dept. of Justice Gunshot-location system that will place networked sensors at specific coordinates on buildings and telephone poles to accurately detect and locate the origin of weapon fire; and an ophthalmic pediatric outreach program at Wills Eye Hospital.

“I remain committed to ensuring that my district receives its fair share of federal dollars to benefit a wide cross section of the 1st Congressional Dist.,” said Brady.

Recipients include: $500,000 - Dept. of Justice Community Oriented Policing; $200,000 - St. Joseph’s Institute for Violence Research and Prevention; $100,000 Preparing Philadelphia’s Future Global Leaders Program; $150,000 - Urban League of Philadelphia Entrepreneurship Center; $800,000 - Thomas Jefferson University Hospital; $150,000 - Wills Eye Health System Ophthalmic Pediatric Outreach; $750,000 - Philadelphia Museum of Art Trans-

portation Improvement; $500,000 - Pennsylvania Turnpike I-95 Interchange; and $350,000 - Uptown Theater Renovation Project.

SEPTA General Mgr. Joseph Casey tries out SEPTA’s new customer-service booth manned by Marsha Smith at Broad & Olney Station.

Patrons will be able to get any transit information they need.

Pleasures of the Palate

Friendly SEPTA Service

‘Smoking’ Allowed

SEPTA Info Just Click Away SEPTA has entered a new high-tech era, with everything customers need now just a click away.

SEPTA’s bus schedule information is now available on Google Transit – completing an effort to include all of the Transit Authority’s travel data on the popular website.

SEPTA partnered with Google earlier this year to get train schedules up on the site.

Now, with an extensive effort to geo-map all of SEPTA’s 15,000-plus bus stops complete, all SEPTA bus, rail and trolley schedules are readily available for anyone using Google Maps to plan a trip in the Philadelphia region.

Google Transit can also be used to plan trips on SEPTA’s

website, which has been completely overhauled as part of a recently unveiled redesign.

One of SEPTA’s exciting new online features, “Next To Arrive”, allows riders to see their next four available Regional Rail trains by simply entering the start and end points of their journey.

In addition to enhanced trip-planning tools, SEPTA’s new website gives customers more access to real-time travel information and new, original content – all wrapped in a fresh, colorful design.

“The number-one priority of this redesign was meeting customers’ needs,” said SEPTA General Mgr. Joseph M. Casey. “We are thrilled to be able to offer our customers

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Among the new offerings at SEPTA’s website is a “Newsroom” which includes press releases, a media guide and public reports. This section also contains “News Bites”, which are original SEPTA stories covering everything from news and events to insider features.

To see all SEPTA has available online, visit www.septa.org.

(Cont. From Page 30) and chicken ($11/half chicken). The fabulous, slightly spicy home-made sauce really sealed the deal.

Side dishes of German potato salad ($4) and macaroni and cheese ($8) were awesome; I liked the green beans ($4), but my wife thought they were too al dente. Cole slaw ($3) was bland and not creamy. A slice of housemade pecan pie ($6) was sheer ambrosia.

A “Half-n-Half” cocktail with Bluecoat Gin ($8) was too sour for my taste, but two beers on tap — Yards Philadelphia Pale Ale ($5/pint) and a dark Porter ($6/pint) — were magic with the barbecue. The ambience at Percy Street is funky and fun — menus on blackboards that came from a nearby school (Philly schools apparently don’t need the blackboards, just principals and a superintendent with a back-

bone — currently absent), wooden booths that look like church pews, a great-looking bar with TV overhead, bare lightbulbs hanging down from the ceiling, a handsome jukebox that plays CDs, a big sign reading “No Smoking, Please. We Have Enough,” etc. Our server, Ron Walsh, formerly of Prime Rib, was knowledgeable, friendly and efficient.

Percy Street serves lunch and dinner seven days a week and is already doing lots of takeout and catering. We were pleasantly surprised to find the street-parking situation dramatically improved since the rates at meters and kiosks were recently doubled.

There were actually lots of available, legal parking spaces on South Street when we were there. For more information, call (215) 6258510 or visit www.percystreet.com.

NOTICE OF HEARING TO: RE:

Colin King, Sr Adoption of Xavier Givens Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania A petition has been filed asking the Court to put an end to all rights you have to your child, Xavier Givens. The Court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child. That hearing will be held as set forth below: PLACE: Luzerne County Court House Bernard C. Brominski Building Orphans' Courtroom, 3rd Floor 113 West North Street Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania DATE: January 21, 20010 TIME: 8:30 A. M. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child (ren) may be ended by the Court without you being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. 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 ONE OF THE OFFICES SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP. Legal Services of Northeastern, PA, Inc 410 BiCentennial Building 15 Public Square Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18701 (570) 825-8567 BY: Anthony J. Lumbis, Esquire Luzerne County Children and Youth Services 111 North Pennsylvania Avenue Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18701 Telephone No. : (570) 826-8700 Extension 5139

Luzerne County Public Defender's Office Luzerne County Courthouse Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18711 (570) 825-1754

Dem Women Enjoy Their Yule Luncheon

SHARING Christmas spirit at DemoDEMOCRAT WOMEN’S CLUB members gather for this crat Women’s Club luncheon were, Yule Card at Christmas Luncheon at Democratic City Com- from left, Kathy Huggins and Latrice mittee. Wilhemina Moore, seated center, is president. & Pat Bryant.

9th Ward Marks Christmas Season

HOST JOHN P. O’CONNELL, center, hosted Democratic 9th Ward’s annual Christmas Party at Brosman Hall at Lutheran Seminary. Enjoying festivities were former Speaker Bob O’Donnell, his wife Donna Marie Gentile, Dan Muroff and Julie O’Connell.

TWO Marilyns appear in this photo with Ward Leader John O’Connell and Councilman Bill Greenlee. They are, from left, Marilyn Lambert and Marilyn Monaco.

REACH Communications chief Jim Davis, 2nd from left, welcomes Vernon Price, Bill FORMER State Rep. Tommy Blackwell joins up Miller, Jr. and Obra Kernodle, IV to his with Reach Chief Jim Davis at firm’s Christmas staff party at Mrs. Tootsie’s.

Party.

Hughes Hosts Holiday Party

STATE SEN. Vincent Hughes and wife Sheryl Lee Ralph hosted holiday party at Crowne Plaza Hotel Presidential Boulevard & City Avenue. Hundreds enjoyed good food, good music, and good fun! Guests do- ENJOYING HOLIDAY PARTY is Judge nated gift cards for Hughes’ Senator Santa John Braxton, Marvin Harris, Denise Pitts and Shaw Cohen. program for his constituents.

JOINING Vince Hughes’s celebration were, from left, Rev. Bonnie Camarda of Salva- FROM LEFT, Rufus Lynch, Joe Hoeffel, tion Army; Cheryl Bullock, Sen. Bob and Sandra Dungee Glenn celebrated with Casey’s S.E. Penna. regional director; and State Sen. Vincent Hughes.

Photo by Bonnie Squires Major Jorge Diaz of Salvation Army.

WARD LEADERS considered “The Progressives” included Councilman Bill GreenTEAMING UP with Gubernatorial candi- lee, Stephanie Singer, Marcia Wilkof, date Joe Hoeffel were Martha & Jan Lesner O’Connell, Councilwoman Donna Reed and Deborah Kline.

Miller and Carol Jenkins.

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ENJOYING 9th Ward festivities with host John O’Connell were Ernest Covington and Ward HAPPY COUPLE were John & Dorothy Chair Jean Hemphill.

Dempsey.

Reach Communications Marks Yule

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

NATIONAL Alliance of Women Veterans provided “Homeless Women Veteran’s Listening Sessions” with providers for assessing elimination of this problem. Cathy Santos, seated 2nd from left, facilitated required four listening sessions throughout city with homeless women veterans.

Page 33

Ending Homelessness For Women Vets

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

Page 34

Census Opens Office The Philadelphia Regional Census Center has opened a local office to serve Frankford, North and Northeast Philadelphia.

It will serve as a recruiting station for hundreds of temporary

employees. Hundreds will be recruited for temporary positions.

The office is located at the Roosevelt Plaza, 6581 Roosevelt Blvd., 1st floor.

The decennial Census em-

ploys some of the most sophisticated technical and operational tools as well as a workforce of 1.4 million temporary employees to count every man, woman and child.

Union Labor...

Building it right for a better and stronger community!

Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., James Vail L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Business Manager Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Sr. Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper,Sr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.

Samuel Staten, Sr., Business Manager Emeritus of the Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and Vicinity and Local 332.

Laborers’ District Council promotes a safe work environment, jobs completed on time and on budget, and represents union members, who are well trained, productive, professional, and take pride in their work. Union labor…building better and safer communities in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties.

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Out & About

(Cont. From Page 11) irresponsible managers of the country? This, after the Republicans had cut taxes in an irresponsible manner so the country had no capability of balancing its annual budget.

It’s like the man who murdered his parents and then asked for clemency because he was an orphan.

PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES®

(Cont . From Page 11) SCOTT SIGMAN and JOE EASTMAN also made time to celebrate the holidays with these young Elephants. Former DA candidate MIKE UNTERMEYER made it known that he is still a Republican by his appearance at the event.

Talk of the town this week was the election of Philly GOP’s COUNSEL MIKE MEEHAN as newly elected Southeast Caucus Chair for the State GOP. Meehan is

So it is with this in mind that I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and hope that you’re spending it with the people whom you love the most and those who love you back.

Next week: the annual “Year In Review” column.

And oh, man, what a year it’s been for everyone! comed into the GOP and the world by father Matt and mother MARIA. Mom, Dad and babies are said to be doing well and we wish them the best of luck.

Happy Holidays, Elephants and Donkeys alike!

Plugging Health Reform

JOINING phalanx of leaders including Congressman Joe Sestak at rally in City Hall was State Rep. Babette Josephs, who was rallying support for Federal health-insurance reform as well as a single-payer system in Penna.

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

City Hall Sam

Elephant Corner

of months ago.

But while these are pretty bad things to think about, they remind me of what’s important.

Family is important -more important than gifts, big dinners and all that other stuff.

It’s even more important than politics, the usual topic of this column. now the State GOP’s point man in the region.

Saving the best for last, the most important news on the party circuit was the addition of two new YR members.

Baby Elephants LUKE & OLIVIA GABOR were wel-

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(Cont . From Page 11) next moment is going to bring us.

My mom spent most of 2009 in the hospital, and it was touch and go most of that time. She’s doing better now, but we don’t let her stay in the house alone these days, because we’re afraid something will happen and we won’t be there to help.

My sister just got finished

her treatment for cancer. She’s doing better now, and her doctor says she’s cancer-free, but she’s still trying to gather her strength after what had to be a crazy battle to fight.

In fact, I’m tired of cancer as a whole. My cousin is fighting it now and my aunt passed away from it a couple

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Page 36 The Public Record • December 24, 2009

More Pictures From Pennsylvania Society Weekend

JOURNALIST Doug Pike, candidate for Congressional seat now occupied by Jim Gerlach, was at N.Y.C. event with Andrew Martin, his campaign manPhoto by Joe Stivala ager.

SHARING notes at Penna. Society were John Egan, chairman of Board of City Trusts and Register of Wills Ron Photo by Joe Stivala Donatucci.

Derek Green, Esq., special counsel to Hon. Marion Tasco, center, talks with PUBLIC RECORD corrects an error which identified Pat friends at a Penna. Society Weekend Toomey and his wife Kris, at left, as the Girard-diCarlos, Photo by Joe Stivala at right, at Penna. Society Weekend. We also incorrectly function. identified former Justice Sandy Newman as wife of David Photos by Bonnie Squires Dembe.

LOVELY Marita Crawford, powerful aide to Councilman SONTE REAVIS, Esq. ,right, greets Dianne ENJOYING Pennsylvania Weekend festivities were William Green, and Morgan, Montgomery Co. Controller, with Jon Marshall, Esq., David Shadding, Tom Leonard Jerry Dellavalla.

Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala and Steve Wodjak. her husband.

Wishing Kernie Well On His Retirement

THE POPULAR Dezzis with District Attorney Lynne Photo by Joe Stivala Abraham.

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BARBARA & LISA DEELEY drew a crowd. With them are State Reps. Brendan Boyle and John Sabatina, Councilman Bill Greenlee, Bill Dolbow, John Kilderry and John Sabatina, Sr. Photo by Joe Stivala

WISHING Kernie Anderson well as he has retires as GM of WHAT-AM and former long-time head of WDAS. Kernie was credited with launching careers of local luminaries like E. Stephen Collins and Chris Squire, who succeeded Anderson at WHAT. Photo by Bonnie Squires

BOOK SIGNING by Richard Mantanari, author of Badlands, autographed his Philly novel assisted by Judge Robert Mulgrew, and sponsored by Mike Driscoll, FiniPhoto by Joe Stivala gan's Wake owner.

ADMINISTRATIVE Judge of Common Pleas Trial Division Web Keogh, left, enjoys a chat with GOP 5th Ward Leader Mike Cibik.

JERRY FINLEY, left, was glad for opportunity to hang out with Councilman Frank Rizzo at United Republican Club affair.

GOOD FELLOWSHIP abounded at Sheraton Society Hill as Republican City Committee Counsel Mike Meehan, left, touched bases with REPUBLICAN City Committee Chair Vito James McDermott, Jr., Canuso is flanked by 55th Ward Leader executive director of Chris Vogler, left, and his father 21st Ward Phila. Regional Port Authority.

Leader Walt Vogler.

Snooper

when I blamed THE MAYOR for the ‘demise’ of THE DAD VAIL REGATTA. I have since learned both HE and HON. BOB BRADY, Congressman, were instrumental not only in keeping it here, but also in negotiating a FIVE-YEAR deal to keep it here in PHILADELHIA, where they really belong! Again, I applaud both of them for doing what they did for us. My Boss told me, when you’re wrong, ALWAYS ADMIT IT. Let me thank Hon. Michael Nutter and Congressman Brady.

SNOOPER’S “CONGRATS” DEPT: Hey Chief, how about our STREETS DEPT.? They are to be congratulated for the tremendous job they all did during our recent SNOW STORM. I was very impressed with their professionalism, as they did what they had to do, and did it well. I congratulate all those wonderful MEN and WOMEN. We want The Streets Commissioner, as well as THEMAYOR, to know these people are very much appreciated for cleaning up all that snow. COMMISSIONER, they are THE BEST!

the City's chief representative in local, State, national and international affairs, and as liaison with State and Federal agencies and legislators in marketing the Airport system and improving air service. The CEO will work

2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134 GENERAL AUTO REPAIRS STATE INSPECTION LUBRICATION

under the general direction of the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor for Transportation and Utilities and will earn a salary of $200,000 annually.

The salary is funded entirely from the Airport Enterprise Fund, not general taxes.

Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937 BODY AND FENDER REPAIR TIRE SERVICE SIMONIZING

A.C. AUTO REPAIRS 24 HOUR TOWING & ROAD SERVICE 2300 FRANKFORD AVENUE PHILA., PA 19125

PHONE 215-634-9517 BODY SHOP 215-427-0550 FAX 215-427-9296

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, January 12, 2010. 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.

BUDGET FEE B-009 (C) of 2009/10*Electrical Contract George A McCall ES $200,000.00 $200.00 Boiler Replacement 325 South 7th Street *A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location on December 23, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.

FEE BUDGET B-008 (C) of 2009/10*Mechanical Contract George A McCall ES $1,500,000.00 $200.00 Boiler Replacement 325 South 7th Street *A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location on December 23, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.

B-048(C) of 2008/09* General Contract Window Replacement

William T. Tilden MS 6601 Elmwood Ave.

BUDGET $2,000,000.00

FEE $200.00

*A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location on December 17, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.

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 215-4005225. 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.

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(Cont . From Page 11) success. Thanks JOE! SNOOPER’S “PERSON OF THE WEEK”: HON. JOSEPH McDERMOTT, Mediation & Arbitration, MUNICIPAL COURT, is so proud of his lovely daughter, PATRICIA McDERMOTTFAIR. Yes, she has been selected for many reasons, one of which has to do with her current project, “Santa for the POOR”. This young lady sees to the many POOR CHILDREN get a Christmas Present. She is an Instructional Specialist for The Morrison School. “Patty” gets everyone involved, including her Grandmom, AGNES SCANLON, KYLIE & DYLAN, and the rest of her family, including her Mom PATRICIA McDERMOTT & JOSEPH McDERMOTT. Hey, you still have time to help this young lady by calling (215) 354-3036; do it now!

SNOOPER MEMO: Commissioner Lloyd Ayers, I stopped into the ARIA HOSPITAL (Frankford Division), and got to meet TWO of the greatest medics ever from your

Fire Dept. COMMISSIONER AYERS, here’s two great EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) you should know about: JOHN PEREZ (Engine 55) and JAMEL BARNWELL (Engine 73). MEDIC 42B is stationed at Engine 70’s Firehouse. These two gentlemen love what they do, too. I just wanted all our people to know there are people who do care about all those they serve. Hats off to these two! John Perez and Jamel Barnwell are THE BEST! What a team too!

SNOOPER’S “LATE NEWS” BUREAU: Last week we learned of the passing of the lovely AUDREY McMENAMIN, wife of political icon CHARLIE McMENAMIN, former WARD LEADER of The 42nd Ward.

His wife leaves him and his wonderful children GERALDINE, MICHELLE, CHARLES, JR. and, of course, JOSEPH. She was also a very devoted Grandmom to MARK, IAN, ALEXANDRIA and VICTORIA. Charlie told us she was his LOVE and personal FRIEND, always. RIP! SNOOPER’S “EAT CROW” DEPT: I must admit I was absolutely wrong

Mark Gale is now CEO of the City of Philadelphia’s Division of Aviation. Mayor Michael Nutter announced his decision, making Gale’s appointment effective immediately.

Gale is responsible for directing the development, planning and administration of all the activities of the City's Division of Aviation, including the Philadelphia International Airport, Northeast Philadelphia Airport and the management of about 800 airport personnel.

“After a national search and interviewing some impressive candidates, it is clear to me that Mark is the best in the business. Mark’s accomplishments as Acting Aviation Director and as Deputy Director of Aviation for Operations and Facilities, bolstered by his vision for the future of Philadelphia International Airport, are impressive. He is the right choice to lead one of region’s most valuable transportation assets,” said Mayor Nutter.

As CEO, Gale serves as

The Public Record • December 24, 2009

FROM ACROSS Phila. Republicans gathPAT MEEHAN, right, receives coveted an- ered at Sheraton Society Hill, including, from nual public-service award from United Re- left, Al Schmidt, Roy Suplicki, Commissioner Joe Duda and Counsel Mike Meehan. publican Club’s Alex Matkowski.

Gale Gets Airport Appointment

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Republicans Unite For Meehan

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The Public Record • December 24, 2009

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The Public Record • December 24, 2009

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