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Serving Citywide Political, Labor, Legal and School Communities of Philadelphia Vol. XII. No. 13 (Issue 531)

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

Value 50¢

April 1, 2010

Are Our Charter Schools Out Of $$ Control?

Page 25

P. 10 Fire Deaths Are

Down But Injuries Are

Page 2

Up P. 11

Tartaglione, Hughes, Costa Craft 40,000 Jobs Bill ...Page 2

Meet The DA In Your Neighborhood P. 29

PHA SETS RECORD

Who’s # 1 In Ballot For Voucher Applications Positions?

P. 2

P. 6

Group Files Suit Against City Health Department Over Syphilis Epidemic P. 22

They Are In Love With Our Port !

EVERY one of gubernatorial candidates proved at Spirit Of Port Awards Luncheon they understood importance of Port of Phila. as economic gateway to Keystone State ... all supporting dredging operations now underway. From left are Auditior General Jack Wagner, State Sen. Anthony Williams, Allegheny Co. Executive Dan Onorato, Montgomery Co. Commissioner Joe Hoeffel andAttorney General Tom Corbett.

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

Page 2 The Public Record • April 1, 2010 www.phillyrecord.com

Skateboarders Caught Defacing Vietnam Memorial Skateboarders are responsible for much of the damage now being afflicted on the $500,000 newly refurbished Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated last Nov. 11.

There is no doubt about it!

They’ve been captured time and again on video cameras now circling the Memorial, located on Dock Street near Spruce.

Some of them have been identified and arrested. Three of them had actually come down from Quakertown to skate on what they saw as inviting surfaces.

Those surfaces, which are again being defaced, are shiny, expensive marble pathways and coverings.

According to James Moran, who is the Memorial Custodian of the spacious, somberly fitting memorial to this city’s dead in that war, said, “These kids mar and scratch into the marble with their roller blades. We had put star-shaped medallions into the runways. Yet our cameras catch them as they actually try to pound and pry them loose with their skateboards.”

Terry Williamson, who is president of the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial Advisory Fund, headquartered at 213 N. Fourth Street, laments the damage which “amounts to over $17,000 since we dedicated the first phase of renewal for the memorial in November.”

He said, “Thanks to the City and other major contributors, we were able to come up with the first $500,000 required for our phase-one plan. These included the camera system, flag poles, cement work and host of other repairs made necessary by vandalism.”

Williamson said the Fund is raising money for the completion of phase two, “which will open the memorial park to Spruce Street, provide an additional entrance and allow the police and neighbors to see what is going on in the Memorial area.“ Joel Cutler, president of Integrated Video Security Systems, said, “We are con-

stantly moving the camera positions around in order to get more coverage of almost everyone entering this memorial park.“ And they are being caught. But the problem, Moran said, “is we need to reach skateboarders and others who mean to deface the Memorial and make them aware they’ll be caught on camera.”

He also invites those at home to use their computers to help watch over the Memorial. “They can come onto our cameras and watch who is at the memorial or who is defacing it by visiting “WWW. PVVM. Com.“ He also welcomes volunteers to help with the policing and encourages them to call him at (267) 973-0625.

CHECKING camera tapes at Vietnam War Memorial are camera operator Joel Cutler and custodian Jim Moran.

Senators Introduce Jobs Bill For 40,000 STAR EMBLEMS, such as one seen in picture at left, make skateboarding difficult. So skateboarders pry them loose, as seen in picture at right.

PHA Voucher Program Attracts 54,000 Applicants, 61% On-Line The Philadelphia Housing Authority received an overwhelming 54,000 applications over a two-week period for the agency’s Housing Choice Voucher Program, 61% coming online through the PHA website.

The outreach marked the first time PHA used its online application system, which performed flawlessly despite being inundated with nearly 33,000 applications.

The other 21,000 applications came via phone. Rather than outsource this work to a call center company, PHA recruited employees from across all agency departments to work shifts taking calls and applications.

We learned two things from this process. First, there are even more families, seniors and disabled citizens who need help paying their rent than we thought. Second, PHA staff and systems are able to perform beautifully without outside help. They made sure everyone who wanted to apply was able to do so, and without a long wait,” said PHA Executive Director Carl Greene.

THIS SIGN says it all. But it seems skateboarders can’t read.

PHA began pulling the first names from the fresh list on Mar. 19. The list had been open from Mar. 2 through Mar. 15. PHA estimates each year about 2,500 voucher holders leave the program, creating opportunities for those on the list who are in need of assistance.

The applications received so far are preliminary. Once an individual’s or family’s name is pulled from the list, the applicant must come in for a thorough background check and screening. The amount of rental assistance an applicant receives is based on the household’s income.

The Housing Choice Voucher program depends on high-quality licensed landlords to accept vouchers toward the rent.

“Landlords are the heart of the program, because without them these voucher-holders wouldn’t have places to apply. We are always looking for new, qualified landlords to join the program and offer as much selection as possible to Housing Choice clients,” Greene said.

All houses and apartments

approved for the program must pass a Housing Quality Standards inspection and all landlords must be licensed and participate in PHA’s fullday property-management course. These requirements ensure good property conditions and lessen community concerns.

PHA affords residents the opportunity to enroll in economic self-sufficiency programs, so that they can receive job and vocational training and counseling. Hundreds of participants leave the program each year as they gain full-time employment and are able to pay their rent or buy a home without assistance.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program is funded by the federal government and managed by PHA. With 17,000 households, it is PHA’s largest program. The agency also houses more than 14,000 households in its public housing program.

PHA will soon offer the same on-line application option used for this outreach for its public-housing program.

State Sens. Christine Tartaglione, Vincent Hughes and Jay Costa plan to introduce a package of bills to create more than 40,000 transitional jobs statewide over two years.

The community-service jobs would employ Pennsylvanians through a nine-month contract paying $10 per hour for up to 30 hours per week for adults. A youth-employment component creates sixweek summer positions at $9 per hour for 25 hours per week.

“The economic downturn has caused widespread hardship, but working families have been hit hardest,” Tartaglione said. “By creating 40,000 jobs we will not only be able to help these families make ends meet, but we will be able to provide paid help to community-service organizations that would not have been able to hire workers otherwise.”

“If we move to institute a tax on smokeless tobacco products, just like every other State across the country has done for years, we can use this money to stimulate the economy and put Pennsylvanians to work,” Hughes said.

“The only way to rebound a stagnant economy is to create jobs and put money back into the economy at the local level.

That’s what we intend to do.”

“With job loss continuing throughout the Commonwealth, putting people to

work should be our first priority,” Costa said. “There are federal job-creation funds and targeted State dollars that we can take advantage of now to help our neighbors earn a steady paycheck while they continue to look for permanent jobs.”

The jobs program would be funded by federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant funding and by instituting a tax on the wholesale price of smokeless tobacco products. The TANF funding was allocated to Pennsylvania as part of a $5 billion emergency fund created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. In his February budget address, Gov. Ed Rendell proposed a tax on smokeless tobacco products but would store the revenue in a reserve fund to fill future budget holes. Senate Democrats are proposing to use this tax revenue immediately to create jobs.

The legislative package contains four separate measures, including a resolution authored by Tartaglione stressing the need to draw down and utilize all available federal stimulus job creation monies.

The Senators said after the two years of TANF money has run out, the estimated $80 million per year from the smokeless tobacco tax would fund a continuing statewide job-creation program.

Page 3

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

www.phillyrecord.com

Page 4 The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Nutter Likes Williams For Governor It’s a no-brainer: Everyone in Philadelphia would like to see another Philadelphian as the next Governor.

Gov. Ed Rendell broke the County Label jinx that always haunted and hindered this city’s statewide aspirants. He did it twice in successive runs for Governor.

The big question now is, can the city deliver State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams well over 150,000 votes this primary, the minimum vote estimated he will need to win the coveted Democratic primary nomination?

Pushing to create voter interest in the Democratic primary will be a series of planned announcements by the Williams campaign. It got off to a good start last week with the announcement by Mayor Michael Nutter and State Rep. Dwight Evans the Senator was their favorite son in the Democrat primary for

Governor.

It’s a weighty endorsement, since both men are ward leaders and, in that capacity, have the ability to rally their committeepersons to get out a heavier vote in what normally are low primary turnouts.

His competition includes Dan Onorato, the Allegheny Co. executive, and State Auditor General Jack Wagner, who are whacking away and splitting up Democrat votes on their home turf. His closest competitor in this area is former Congressman and now Montgomery Co. Commissioner Joe Hoeffel, who is wooing the more-liberal elements of the Democrat voting bloc in this city.

Josh Cohen Defines Anti-Gun Stance Josh Cohen, Democratic candidate for State Representative in Pennsylvania’s 194th legislative Dist., could be

DEMOCRAT Challenger Kevin Boyle is pleased to receive FOP endorsement in primary from President John J. McNesby, pledging he will “work with police to make Northeast safer.”

shooting off a campaign salvo that will backfire in a District where not everyone is in favor of tighter gun-control laws.

He’s announced a hard stance for gun control. That may fly well in some of the suburban districts covered by the District.

But this could backfire in the heavily voting Roxborough part of the District, where sports leagues abound and are part of the “native” culture, and where many supporters of those leagues are proud of their rifle collections and go hunting.

“No matter the year, no matter the election, the issue of public safety is always at or near the top of voters’ concerns,” said Cohen.

DeMuro Endorsed For State Committee “I never had the time, but since I retired from serving as a constituent-services representative for Rep. Keller, I wanted to be elected to Democratic State Committee,” says Domenic DeMuro, now marking his 40th year as a committeeperson.

He presently is ward chairman of Democrat 39A Ward, whose leader is Roseanne Pauciello.

He got his wish last week when endorsements were made in the 1st Senatorial

Dist. He was nominated along with Matthew Myers, Councilman Darrell Clarke and Jay Scott. Bounced off was incumbent Thomas Rumba.

A Return Of DiDonato Name To City Politics?

Nicholas DiDonato is the grandson of the late Nicholas DiDonato, Sr., who was a fixture in Ward 39, Division 37 as a committeeman for over 40 years. He is also the great-nephew of the late Frank Pepe, head of the Amalgamated Clothing Workers Union and longtime committeeman in 39-37,and great-nephew of the late Hon. Anthony DiDonato, who served as State Representative in the 185th (1975-1976) and was defeated by Ronald Donatucci after one term. He is the son of a 16-year veteran Police Officer Nicholas DiDonato, Jr. So he’s made his move to enter the political arena, surviving a court challenge for his nominating petition as a committeeman in the 37th Division of Democrat 39A Ward. Judge Chris Wogan saved his petition from a challenge by ward leader Roseanne Pauciello. Nick’s determined to have a party post, so he’s also appearing as a candidate in the Democrat 1st Senatorial Dist.

Best wishes to all Philadelphians for a Happy Passover and a Happy Easter!

State Rep. Cherelle

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

State Rep.

ROBERT C. DONATUCCI 185th District 1809 Oregon Ave, Phila., PA 19145

215-468-1515

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

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

Councilman Wm.

Greenlee

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

State Rep.

William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

215-271-9190 State Representative

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

215-748-6712 Parkwood Shopping Center 12361 Academy Road, Phila., PA 19154, 215-281-2539

www.phillyrecord.com

Representative

JOHN MYERS 201St Legislative District

8016 Bustleton Avenue Philadelphia PA 19152 215-695-1020

State Rep.

Frank Oliver 195th District 2839 W. Girard Ave. Phila. PA 19130

215-684-3738 STATE SENATOR

Room 305, South Office Bldg.

House Box 202020 Harrisburg, PA 17120-2020 Phone: (717) 787-3181 Fax: (717) 783-8724

5847 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19144 Phone: (215) 849-6591 Fax: (215) 560-1824

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

Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT

LEANNA M. WASHINGTON DISTRICT OFFICE

1555-D Wadsworth Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 (215) 242-0472 Fax: (215) 753-4538 WEB SITE www.senatorwashington.com

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Page 6 The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Top Ballot Slot Will Help Some Legislators The luck of the draw could well decide the statewide elections for at least the office of Lieutenant Governor. First place can add several thousand to the total of a candidate who finds he or she is in that slot.

On the Democrat side, Judge Doris Smith-Ribner drew first place, followed by Scott Conklin and, in third place, former City Controller Jonathan Saidel. Minus a heavy television advertising schedule in the state’s key market areas, it could be anybody’s election, though Saidel is the favorite with an endorsement by the city’s Democrat Committee. On the Republican side, Steve Johnson is number one, followed

by Jean Craige Pepper in a field of nine.

The ballot positions, though unofficial, may change depending on how the courts decide on those whose nominating petitions are being challenged through Apr. 14.

Wherever incumbents found they have opposition, their opponents’ petitions are being challenged.

Our three local Congress members have no competition in the primary, so they escape the onus of not being in first place.

Challengers who find themselves at the bottom of the list for the particular seat

they seek, should think twice and may wisely withdraw.

In the State Senate Democrat primary, Sen. Christine Tartaglione has no opponent in the 2nd Dist. Sen. LeAnna Washington is number two behind W. Lamont Thomas in the 4th Dis. His petitions have been challenged and will be heard Monday.

Gambling his 8th Senatorial Dist. seat by running in both that District and for Governor is Anthony Hardy Williams. His sole opponent is Carmen Hopson from Lansdowne, whose petitions have been challenged. Court date is Monday, Apr. 12.

All of Philadelphia’s State House seats are up again. Republican incumbent Dennis O’Brien has a free ride in the 169th with no opposition for now from Democrats or Republicans.

Without Democrat primary opposition is State Rep. Brendan Boyle, 170th. With three Democrats running in the 172nd, Brendan’s brother Kevin drew first place, followed by Tim Kearney and Daniel Collins. On the Republican side, Joseph Gaynor drew first, followed by State Rep. John Perzel and John McDermott.

State Rep. Mike McGeehan is on his way to a free ride with no Republican or Demo-

crat opposition in the 173rd.

The same holds for State Rep. John Sabatina in the 174th.

In the 175th, State Rep. Michael O’Brien scored number one and challenged in court Peter Fiorentino and Daryl LaFountain. Both will stay on the ballot, however.

State Rep. John Taylor has a free ride to Harrisburg in the 177th, with no opposition from either party’s candidates.

State Rep. Tony J. Payton, Jr. has no opposition in the Democratic primary for the 179th.

State Rep. Angel Cruz is taking his two Democrat challengers to court in the 180th.

He’s third behind Jonathan Ramos and Anthony Johnson on the ballot. The winner will have no Republican opposition. His and Johnson’s petitions have been challenged.

The same holds for State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas, who has a namesake struggle in the 181st Democrat primary with Lewis Thomas III. State Rep. Babette Joseph in the 182nd has a challenge in Democrat primary from Gregg Kravitz, who beat back a court challenge. The winner will have no Republican opposition.

State Rep. Bill Keller has no opposition in the 184th primary and neither does State Rep. Robert Donatucci in the 185th. State Rep. Kenyatta Johnson, 186th, pulled sec-

ond in a three-way race, and challenged Timothy Hannah and Dyheim Watson’s ballots.

Court kept Watson on ballot.

State Rep. James Roebuck drew second behind Bryant Brown in the Democrat primary for the 188th. Watson faces court challenge. Winnertake-all after the primary.

Incumbent Vanessa Lowry Brown, 190th, drew second behind Audrey Blackwell Watson and ahead of Sharif Street. Winner gets a free ride to Harrisburg in the General.

State Rep. Ronald Waters has no Democrat or Republican challengers in the 191st.

Will Mega drew the top slot in the 192nd, and beat back a tough court challenge from incumbent Louise Bishop.

There is no Republican opposition in the General.

Court challenges may narrow the field in the 194th legislative Dist. Five Democrats are in the primary. The ballot pick put Joshua Cohen at the top, followed by Pamela DeLissio, Keith Newman, Bill Morris, and Lou Agre, who is Party-endorsed. Winner faces Republican Timothy Downey.

Also jammed up are the Democrat nominees in the 195th. Endorsed candidate Michelle Brownlee, is third in a field of four. She successfully challenged petitions of Courtney Lewis and Richard

Purdie, others are pending. In order of ballot positions are, Lee Ruffin, Jamila Payne, Brownlee and Anthony Ingargiola. Winner faces Republican Jim Kernaghan in the General Election.

State Rep. Jewell Williams has no opposition in the primary or General Election in the 197th. State Rep. Rosita C. Youngblood has challenged Malik Boyd’s petitions in the 198th and faces no opposition in the General.

State Rep. Cherelle Parker, 200th, has no opposi-

Daryl La Fountain Candidate In 2010 For District 175

tion in the primary or General Election.

State Rep. John Myers drew second place in a field of four in the 201st Democrat primary. Challenges have been issued against Michael Ellis, who drew the first position (followed by Myers), as well as against Viveca Gresham and Pamela Pendleton.

State Rep. Mark Cohen earned a free ride in the primary and General for the 202nd, as did State Rep. Dwight Evans in the 203rd.

VOTE FOR

Nicholas DiDonato On May 18, 2010

Elect Nicholas DiDonato Democrat for Pa State Committee The DiDonato name has served the Community over 40 years Citiz4betterphil@aol.com

www.Darylfor175.com Constituent Service Office

1610 S. Broad St. Phila., PA 19146 (215) 952-3378

State Senator

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

Larry Farnese 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.SenatorFarnese.com

Sheriff Green’s Important Steps to Saving Your Home Step 1: www.phillyrecord.com

Assemble your current financial information, and call your lender.

Step 2:

Senator Tina State Sen.

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

Tartaglione 2nd Dist.

127 W. Susquehanna Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19122

1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19124

215-291-4653

215-533-0440

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

Page 7

Our Opinion ...

A Patient City Workforce

ANOTHER OPINION

Autism Is Growing

half of children with ASD to become more independent, helping them lead fuller lives and require less care as adults.

Yet legislation I authored to increase funding for ASD treatment in the military’s health-care program resulted in the first new federal funding for autism treatment in over 12 years – even though the prevalence of ASD has been growing at a rate of 1017% per year nationwide.

To tackle this challenge, we must change our approach to autism. Too often, it is considered solely an educational issue, not a health issue. For instance, even though ASD is more prevalent among military families, the military health-care program, TRICARE, covers therapy for ASD through a small and under-utilized supplemental program, not as standard health care. That’s why I submitted an additional amendment to have accepted and medically necessary ASD

treatment covered under behavioral health care in the basic TRICARE policy. This legislation passed the House, but was removed by the Senate in conference.

We will keep working. If successful, this change could contribute to a national model of treating ASD as a health issue as opposed to solely an educational one and could open the door to effective care for kids and families across the country.

The Senate, too often marked by inaction, must be more responsive to this issue.

Both health-care reform bills passed in Congress provide minimum required benefits for behavioral health care. At my and others’ urging, the House Education & Labor Committee issued a Committee Report clarifying that accepted and medically necessary ASD treatment qualifies as behavioral health care. The Senate has not provided similar assurance.

As a member of the House Autism Caucus, I and others will also be working to make sure that this issue, so critical to so many of our families, is not overlooked.

Apr. 1- Loyal Opposition hosts Leadership meeting and national-security briefing at Union League, 7-9 a.m. Also speaking are Lt. Gov. candidates Jim Cawley and Chet Beiler. No charge. A luncheon event is scheduled 12 m.2 p.m. Charge is $36. RSVP pamelawarren1@comcast.net.

Apr. 1- City Commission Chair Margaret Tartaglione hosts 62nd Ward fundraiser at Finnigan’s Wake, 3rd & Spring Garden Sts., 6-9 p.m.

Tickets $30. Available at door.

For info (215) 743-4699.

Apr. 1- Reelection fundraiser for Fraternal Order of Police President John J. McNesby at Cescaphé Ballroom, 923 N. 2nd St., 6-9 p.m.

Apr. 1- Sharif Street’s Birthday Bash at Park Avenue, 4900 Parkside Ave., 7 p.m.12 a.m. Tickets $15. For info Latifah (215) 764-6475.

Apr. 5- Candidates Night at PMHS, 860 N. 24th St., 7 p.m. Congressman Joseph Sestak and Judge Doris Smith-Ribner will appear

with candidates running in 195th House Dist.

Apr. 5- CyberSoft Operating Corporation hosts 1-week course on Windows antivirus security. For Details call Frank A. Amabile 1 (610) 825-4748.

Apr. 10- Penna. Golden Gloves tourney kicks off at Blue Horizon, 1314 N. Broad St., 7 p.m. Tickets $35. For info Joe Hand Promotions 1 (800) 557-4263.

Apr. 10- Simon Gratz HS Class of January 1965 marks 45th class reunion at School.

For info Charlotte Hatcher Conway (215) 927-1079 or email conway7828@juno.com.

Apr. 14- Cocktail Reception honors Jimmy Dintino at La Veranda Restaurant, 30 N. Columbus Blvd., 6 p.m. For info (215) 468-2300.

Apr. 14- Vendemmia Foundation hosts Winemakers Award Dinner at La Stanza Restaurant, 2001 Oregon Ave., 7 p.m. Tickets $45. For info Teresa (215) 465-8810.

Apr. 15- Fundraiser for State Rep. Rosita Youngblood at Finnigan’s Wake, 3rd & Spring Garden Sts., 7-9:30 p.m. Tickets $100. For info (215) 745-4306.

Apr. 17- Ducky Birts’ Medallion Awards Banquet at 1st Dist.

Plaza, 3801 Market St., 6 p.m.

Tickets $65 each, two for $100.

Entertainment by Amazin’ Grace. For info (215) 242-1220.

Apr. 17- Variety’s 75th Anniversary Gala at Lowe’s Phila.

Hotel, 1200 Market St., cocktails 6 p.m., dinner 7p.m., afterparty 7 p.m.-12.a.m. To purchase tickets, visit www.varietyphila.org or (215) 735-0803.

Apr. 21- Dr. Nicholas DePace, cardiologist, speaks to Caring People’s Alliance at Fels Ctr., Broad & Ritner Sts., 10 a.m. He will give out free copies of his best-selling health book The Heart Manual as well as sign them for those attending. Admission is free.

Apr. 25- Friends of Marian B. Tasco Jazz Brunch features The Soul Blues of Frank Bey at The View Banquet Hall, 800 N. Broad St., 1-4 p.m. For tickets (215) 2870582 or (215) 477-4058.

Apr. 29- Ward 39-B’s Spring Fundraiser, hosted by Matthew Myers, at Chickie’s & Pete’s, 1526 Packer Ave., 5:30-8 p.m. Mail donations $50 (no corporate checks) payable to Friends of Ward 39-B, to Kevin Carroll, 141 Ritner St., Phila., PA 19148.

For info (215) 467-4643.

www.phillyrecord.com

by Congressman Joe Sestak One thing we absolutely must change in Washington is the pattern of neglecting problems until they become crises. We may have already missed that opportunity when it comes to addressing Autism Spectrum Disorders.

A recent estimate from the CDC that autism and related developmental conditions affect an astounding one out of every 100 of our eight-yearolds (up from one out of 150 just two years ago) simply emphasizes what we’ve long known: autism is a major challenge confronting our kids, families, schools and country.

Early and intensive therapy for autism is critical. According to studies done by the Harvard School of Public Health and the London School of Economics, autism in the United States costs $35 billion annually – 90% of which goes toward adult services. Proper therapy for children can allow as many as

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Mayor Michael Nutter must realize he has reached the point where the City’s unions need to be given their due.

They have been patient. Their rank and file is dedicated and experienced. Their leadership has been patient.

He must realize he needs to come to the table himself, with whomever he needs. Bring in Congressman Bob Brady to help, if both sides agree, early enough to avoid an 11th-hour settlement.

Though the unions are operating under their old contracts, the unsettling atmosphere created by this situation does impinge upon the mental health of the City’s workers. They have families; they need to know what their future holds.

Only one of the four unions has a contract, the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 5. Arbitration won for them a key City concession on residency rules. Fire Fighters Local 22 is going through a similar arbitration procedure with a decision due by the end of April.

The two biggest, AFSCME DC 33 and DC 47, will have to bear the full weight of the City’s economic problems.

They are held to a tougher standard. The Mayor has not met with DC 33 since December and DC 47 since last July.

That delay does not mitigate the fact the City needs to make financial concessions. Raises are long overdue.

We hope the Mayor has factored in what level of raises need to be approved, so the unions, their rank and file, and the city’s residents can look forward to a speedy settlement.

Page 8 The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Temple Nurses Keep Their Promise

THEY’VE WARNED AND WARNED AND WARNED ... now Temple University Hospital Nurses are on strike. Their walking should bring Temple Administration to table with a realistic agenda.

REMBRANDT’S Restaurant in Fairmount hosted a fundraiser with strong turnout for Anthony Ingargiola, 2nd from right, who is one of four vying for Democrat nomination for 194th House Dist.

Oak Lane Diner

FREE FREE G PA N Since 1944 P A R K I The Land Mark of Philadelphia R K I N G Dear Neighbor: Believe it or not another election will be upon us. As neighbors and citizens we all have an obligation and personal interest in electing someone who will represent our needs and the needs of the community. I was born and raised in this area and have deep roots in the community at large. Who am I? • William “Bill” Morris born May, 1970 • Graduate of Archbishop John Carroll High School in 1988 • Served proudly in the United States Air Force and the Army National Guard • Carpenter Since 1995 with Carpenters Local 8 Youth Sports Coach since 1991, serving the Roxborough Eagles, 21st Ward Junior Baseball League, Region 5 Steelers, Cooperstown All-Star Team and currently coaching Roman Catholic High School Football

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In Addition to my involvement with the youth in the community, I have been personally involved in service in other areas such as: • Assisted with the construction of ramps for the handicapped and elderly • Assisted in the construction of a shelter for homeless pregnant mothers • Mentored in the recovery of alcoholics and drugs addicts I look forward to meeting you as I campaign for State Representative of the 194th District. Please e-mail me with your thoughts on issues that are of importance to you at bmorris2010@live.com Sincerely,

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The Public Record • April 1, 2010

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Page 10 The Public Record • April 1, 2010 www.phillyrecord.com

Are Charter Schools Out Of Control?

by Tony West Controller Alan Butkovitz is finishing what may turn out to be the landmark of his career as the City’s top bookkeeper. That’s a comprehensive audit of the School District’s explosive growth sector, the 71 charter schools that have popped up in the last decade. A bad smell is arising from some of these schools’ business dealings, he says.

Tuesday he gave the public a taste of what’s to come by releasing a study of one person, Rhonda Sharif, who has, since 2003, served as chief financial officer or business manager at up to three different charter schools at the same time – Math, Civics & Science, Harambee and Khepera.

Sharif billed the three schools for a mind-boggling schedule that added up to 463

days of work, for instance, in 2008 alone. She earned $183,000 overall in salaries or consulting fees. And her jobs were sweetened by reimbursements for $570,000 in travel and other expenses over a five-year period.

To top it off, Butkovitz added, Sharif’s husband owns a construction company, Str8-hand Construction, Inc., which received $7.5 million in contracts

from the three schools that employed Sharif. At no point did the schools report the personal relationship between Str8-hand Construction and their high-ranking officer.

Not every charter-school officer is a Sharif, Butkovitz assured the public. He made it clear, though, his final report will reveal “numerous actions that are not the best practices, either from a man-

agement or an accounting standpoint.

“We regard these situations as weaknesses in the charter school law,” the Controller continued, promising he would make recommendations for reform. As Butkovitz is a former State legislator, his recommendations are often pointed and specific.

The charter-school movement has grown fast. Charter schools now account for $290 million of the School District’s budget. Math, Civics & Science, for instance, spends $7 million a year and Harambee $3 million.

Butkovitz insisted he is still in favor of charter schools. “The enabling law deliberately insulated them from much of the oversight that goes on in ordinary School District facilities,” he explained. “The intent was to create a free space in which new schools could experiment.”

But the looseness of these operations also “creates an

opportunity through which you can drive a truck,” Butkovitz pointed out.

Lax oversight can involve violations of the law.

Butkovitz noted several acts

by Sharif that appeared to cross this line. However, the Controller’s Office does auditing but plays no role in criminal prosecution.

Just because a practice is legal doesn’t mean it’s a sound business method. The Controller’s writ extends to sloppy money management in all forms. For instance, at one of Sharif’s schools, the board of directors authorized expense payments to her of more than $500,000 solely on her say-so, with no receipts or other documentation.

“Nobody does that in government,” Butkovitz said, and private companies that behave that way are making a big mistake. “The School District should have done a better job in these cases,” he said.

The Controller’s final report will be ready within two weeks.

Street as adding more weight to their evidence and raises another serious concern over the reductions in equipment, staffing, and the closing of stations.

The union said the public needs to be made aware of the functions of the fire apparatus its firefighters operate. Engines are used to apply water to fires.

Ladders are used for search and rescue. Ladders do not apply water. They don’t carry water.

The Union says the Fire Dept. deactivated in January of last year Engine 14, at Foulkrod & Darrah, leaving just Ladder 15 at that firehouse.

Since the deactivation of Engine 14, there have been three deaths involving five serious fires in the area adjacent to the Foulkrod & Darrah Engine-less Station. Two were recorded Jul. 25 at 4390 Lieper street and three at 5034 Torresdale Avenue. That fire extended to eight other properties, with one firefighter injured.

It also found that on the last day of ’09 a fire at 5034 Torresdale Avenue extended over to eight properties, with one fire fighter injured. The engines took longer to get to that fire as well.

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Despite claims by Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers, the city isn't a safer place even after a reduction of fire-related deaths in 2009.

Ayers had noted fire-death numbers decreased in spite of the deactivation of seven engine companies and two ladder companies in January of last year.

Fire Fighters Union Local 22 is countering that claim by noting civilian injuries had increased dramatically and were at a 10-year high. Injuries to firefighters had increased as well.

The union states the number of runs (answered calls) in stations/companies adjacent to companies closed or reduced by the City had increased.

The union said injuries and property-damage losses were up because it took fire-apparatus personnel longer to reach the scene of a fire, due to the increased travel distances created by the closed or reduced companies and and stations.

The union cited as an example a Mar. 19, 2010 civilian death at a fire at 5019 Griscom

Page 11

Fire Deaths Down, Figures Up

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 Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee 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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Web: www.ldc-phila-vic.org Administrator, Juan Ramos

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The Laborers Employers Cooperation and Education Trust 319 N. 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Telephone: 215-922-6139 Fax: 215-922-6109

Page 12 The Public Record • April 1, 2010 www.phillyrecord.com

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW ACTION OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE No. 091004968 U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION TRUSTEE FOR THE PENNSYLVANIA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY, 211 North Front Street, P.O. Box 15057, Harrisburg, PA 17101, Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF LASELLES MCKENZIE A/K/A LASCELLES MCKENZIE and VALRIE MCKENZIE, as Heir of LASELLES MCKENZIE A/K/A LASCELLES MCKENZIE, deceased, Mortgagor(s) and Record Owner(s), 5349 Addison Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143, Defendant(s) THIS LAW FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. THIS NOTICE IS SENT TO YOU IN AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM YOU WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF LASELLES MCKENZIE A/K/A LASCELLES MCKENZIE and VALRIE MCKENZIE, as Heir of LASELLES MCKENZIE A/K/A LASCELLES MCKENZIE, Deceased, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 5349 Addison Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143.

Your house at 5349 Addison Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143 is scheduled to be sold at Sheriff's Sale on Tuesday, May 04, 2010, at 10:00 AM, in 3801 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA to enforce the court judgment of $15,132.66 obtained by U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION TRUSTEE FOR THE PENNSYLVANIA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY against you.

NOTICE OF OWNER'S RIGHTS YOU MAY BE ABLE TO PREVENT THIS SHERIFF'S SALE To prevent this Sheriff's Sale you must take immediate action: 1. The sale will be cancelled if you pay to U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION TRUSTEE FOR THE PENNSYLVANIA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY, the back payments, late charges, costs and reasonable attorney's fees due. To find out how much you must pay call our office at 215 825 6329 or 1866-413-2311. 2. You may be able to stop the sale by filing a petition asking the Court to strike or open judgment, if the judgment was improperly entered. You may also ask the Court to postpone the sale for good cause. 3. You may also be able to stop the sale through other legal proceedings. 4. You may need an attorney to assert your rights. The sooner you contact one, the more chance you will have of stopping the sale. (See notice below on how to obtain an attorney). YOU MAY STILL BE ABLE TO SAVE YOUR PROPERTY AND YOU HAVE OTHER RIGHTS EVEN IF THE SHERIFF'S SALE DOES NOT TAKE PLACE. 1. If the Sheriff's Sale is not stopped, your property will be sold to the highest bidder. You may find out the price bid price by calling the Sheriff of Philadelphia County at 215-686-3534. 2. You may be able to petition the Court to set aside the sale if the bid price was grossly inadequate compared to the value of your property. 3. The sale will go through only if the buyer pays the Sheriff the full amount due in the sale. To find out if this has happened, you may call the Sheriff of Philadelphia County at 215-686-3534. 4. If the amount due from the Buyer is not paid to the Sheriff, you will remain the owner of the property as if the sale never happened. 5. You have a right to remain in the property until the full amount due is paid to the Sheriff and the Sheriff gives a deed to the buyer. At that time, the buyer may bring legal proceedings to evict you. 6. You may be entitled to a share of the money which was paid for your house. A schedule of distribution of the money bid for your house will be filed by the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of the Sheriff's Sale. This schedule will state who will be receiving that money. The money will be paid out in accordance with this schedule unless exceptions (reasons why the proposed distribution is wrong) are filed with the Sheriff within ten (10) days after the schedule of distribution is filed. 7. You may also have other rights and defenses, or ways of getting your house back, if you act immediately after the sale. 8. You may contact the Foreclosure Resource Center: http://www.philadelphiafed.org/foreclosure/ 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 LISTED BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP. COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central, 3638 N. Broad St., 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, Atty. for Plaintiff GOLDBECK McCAFFERTY & McKEEVER, P.C. Suite 5000 Mellon Independence Center 701 Market St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 215 825-6318

Outstanding ‘Losers’ Win KEYSTONE MERCY Health Plan lauded top losers in its Lose To Win program, 12-week program that for those with type-2 diabetes on the importance of eating a balanced diet, living a healthy lifestyle and exercising on a regular basis. Keystone Mercy partnered with YMCA’s Activate America Program.

One winner was David Hadak. At right is Keystone exec Marjorie Pajil Battle.

For Obese Children, Exercise Beats Pills

by Dr. Nicholas Depace Associate Chief Of Cardiology Hahnemann Hospital Drexel Medical College A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology looked at two groups of young pre-pubertal obese children. One group was assigned to exercise and another to a non-exercise group. The exercise group exercised for 60 minutes three times a week, for a threemonth interval of time.

Besides blood pressure measurements, body fat, fit-

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ness measurements, physical activity, blood tests, and properties of their arteries were noninvasively assessed.

Often inflammatory markers such as CRP were measured.

The authors found regular exercise reduced blood pressure, made the arteries more flexible, and reduced abdominal fat. Respiratory fitness was also improved.

It is believed by beneficially affecting the arteries, reducing body fat, and blood pressure, physical fitness may reduce the need for young children to be put on cholesterol and blood-pressure med-

icine as they age. Not just a good healthy diet, but physical activity, may be the most important protective measure we can give to young pre-pubertal children in order to avoid having them being burdened with medicines as they grow older to control blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, and so forth.

It is always easy to give pills and vitamins to take for five or 10 seconds in the morning, but they do not supplant a good diet and physical exercise, which is better than any pharmacology available for prevention.

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Page 13

Keystone Mercy, Crozer Split largest Medicaid managedcare plan in the county. After the Crozer-Keystone contract ends, Keystone Mercy’s members will still be able to choose from more than 200 PCPs in Delaware Co. The health plan’s network also includes other hospitals and federally qualified health centers in Delaware Co. and bordering areas, including Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, Riddle Memorial Hospital, Lankenau Hospital and Bryn Mawr Hospital.

Keystone Mercy has had a long and productive relationship with Crozer-Keystone Health System. In fact, Keystone Mercy was the only Medical Assistance managedcare plan to contract with them.

However, despite months of negotiations and several exten-

MEDICAL RECORD

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

sions of the existing contract, Crozer-Keystone and Keystone Mercy have been unable to come to terms over the rate of reimbursement.

“The economic downturn has created challenges for the entire health-care system,” said Dr. Feldstein. “In this environment, we cannot meet the reimbursement levels required by Crozer-Keystone. If we were to continue with the monthly losses we are experiencing with Crozer-Keystone, our ability to provide quality service and care to members across the five-county area would be affected.”

Test Your Alcohol Tolerance National Alcohol Screening Day is Apr. 8. PRO-ACT will offer screenings and information at several locations, including: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Community College of Philadelphia (Bonnell Bldg. first floor), 17th Street, between Spring Garden and

Callowhill, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and 444 N. 3rd St. (lobby), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The short screenings are anonymous. In addition, information on at-risk drinking, consumption guidelines and tips on reducing consumption will be available, along with information on treatment programs.

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“Sensing Anger and Joy in your Psychic Energy Field” April 19, 2010 During this lecture you will experience tapping into your own psychic field. You will learn how to sense anger and joy allowing you to know what others are feeling but not saying.

Lecture at ParaStudy.com: 354 Valleybrook Road, Chester Heights, PA 19017 (only 25 minutes from Phila. Airport)

Admission: $7.00 Time: doors open at 7:30 Lecture at 8:00 P.M. GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Private psychic readings by appointment.

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Citing losses of more than $1 million a month on its existing contract with Crozer-Keystone Health System, Keystone Mercy Health Plan announced the two organizations are ending their relationship. As a result, Crozer-Keystone Health System will no longer be part of Keystone Mercy’s network after Apr. 30.

Keystone Mercy, the region's largest Medicaid managed-care plan, has an extensive provider network in place and is already making the necessary arrangements to help ensure uninterrupted care for the affected Medicaid members through their large network of available primary-care doctors, specialists and hospitals.

The company has started mailing out letters to affected members and health-care providers in the Delaware Co. region. The letters explain the changes and assist members in finding another provider in the Keystone Mercy network.

The company is also making outreach phone calls to affected members.

“We are committed to helping our affected members receive uninterrupted care,” said Jay Feldstein, DO, corporate chief medical officer and interim regional president, Northeast, which includes Keystone Mercy Health Plan.

“We have an extensive network of providers and are working to help move affected members to one of the more than 2,000 physicians, 8,000 specialists and nearly 60 hospitals in our network.”

The end of the contract affects approximately 9,600 members who have a primarycare practitioner employed by Crozer-Keystone. An additional 2,200 members have a PCP who has admitting privileges solely at one or more of Crozer-Keystone’s hospitals.

In total, including members who have used a Crozer-Keystone Health System hospital or specialist over the past 12 months, the change affects about 26,000 members.

Keystone Mercy has more than 50,000 members in Delaware Co., making it the

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FIFTY-SEVEN YEARS young! Councilman Bill Greenlee enjoyed birthday fundraiser in Center City.

WARD LEADERS Lou Agre and John Among Bill Greenlee’s birthday well-wishers are O’Connell and Councilman Bill Green Teamsters President Danny Grace and IBEW join their good friend Councilman Bill Greenlee.

Local 98 Business Agent Jimmy Foy.

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Penna. gubernatorial candidate Joe Hoeffel asks that question on behalf of constituents in Parkside who cannot take their automobiles and trucks over 40th Street bridge at Pennsgrove, which has been declared unsafe for over two years now.

Greenlee Hosted Birthday party

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When Will Bridge Be Opened?

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Page 22 The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Group Files Suit Vs. City Health Dept. For Syphilis Epidemic

The Tuskegee North Advocacy Group (TNAG-USA) has filed a civil suit against the City of Philadelphia’s Dept. of Public Health’s Division of Disease Control.

It is the class action initiated on behalf of the citizens of the Delaware Valley against Federal and City Disease Control Managers and players (Planned Parenthood / Public Health Management Cooperation and CDC).

The suit charges the groups

with “complicity, collaboration, conspiracy, and corruption.”

TNAG also wrote a letter to Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, who is a member of the City’s Health & Human Services Committee, asking her to begin an investigation into their charges.

The group is charging the Health Dept.’s lack of coordinated effort to stamp out syphilis “will continue to harm countless, unknowing and unsuspecting citizens.”

It asks Councilwoman Brown to bring to the attention of the Philadelphia City Council “the clear and present danger posed by the fact 20 syphilitic babies were born in this city in the span of three years,” indicating the existence of a syphilitic pandemic within the city.”

It notes the city’s sexually transmitted diseases are higher here than anywhere else. It provides evidence that the HIV rates are five times

the national average. It indicates the number of syphilisinfected individuals is three times worse than the infestation in New York City. “Ethnic, minority females have their sexual and reproductive health put at risk from sustained HIV and syphilis transmission,” the suit asserts.

The suit charges the health needs of high-school students from poor communities, and of the city's gay male popu-

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lation are being ignored by the Health Department.

According to TNAG, its goal is not to “bankrupt” the City of Philadelphia, “but to find common ground through a mutual understanding and respect that will ensure accountability in Philadelphia’s Public Health Services. The very serious problems (gross incompetence, criminal negligence, waste, fraud and abuse) that have firmly taken root in the City’s Division of Disease Control need to be excised by persons with a unique understanding of this very complex matter.”

TNAG officials are hoping City Council will investigate how poorly the federally managed Disease Control Program is run. They noted Diane A. Loebell, a senior attorney for the City failed to file a response to the original complaint filed five months earlier.

Three years ago, following exposure in the Philadelphia Public Record showing poor judgment in its handling of the Federally funded Disease Control Program, which was keyed to stop the HIV and syphilis spread, several of its key agents were fired. Resources had been transferred to employees checking less-critical sexually transmitted diseases, resulting in an explosion of syphilis diagnoses.

Additional pressure by groups representing members of the city's Black gay population was also ignored. They had sent several letters, signed by a score of activists and their groups, to the Health Dept. in 2008.

The last was sent in mid May to Melinda Salmon, program manager of the STD Control Program, with copies to John Celia, Nan Feyler, Caroline Johnson and Aaron Mettey.

It read, in part, “In January 2008, you and Aaron Mettey with the Philadelphia Dept. of Public Health STD Control Program gathered together over 10 stakeholders representing organizations working closely with MSM populations, particularly youth and young adults. It was during this meeting that

you shared current data on the disproportionate increase in syphilis amongst MSM. In the course of presenting this data to us, you shared that almost 50% of the MSM syphilis infections diagnosed in 2006 (the most recent data included in your powerpoint presentation) were among AAMSM. You also stated that in 2007, it appeared that the rates of infection were going to surpass that of 2006 and that the rates among AAMSM were greater than in 2006. Several of us in the room shared our concern that we needed to take immediate action on this issue.

“The individuals around the table expressed their eagerness and willingness to work with you to mobilize a response to this growing epidemic, which included an effort to increase prevention messages and outreach about STDs and accessing screening services. At this meeting it was also asked if the STD department could either work toward building the capacity of organizations to do syphilis screening on site or for the STD department to select times they can come to these organizations to do onsite syphilis screening. Four months and counting and there has been no word on whether or not this request will be granted.

"Furthermore, in the past four months since the one meeting you convened, there has been no significant movement in creating a plan to decrease syphilis infections that we are privy to. Members from the initial group meeting you held have shared with you syphilis STD social-marketing campaigns that were used in other large metropolitan areas. These materials can easily be adapted to reflect local information, so there would be minimal cost to your department to do this.

“As a group of concerned individuals who are vested In the lives of African American MSM, we plan to hold you accountable for developing a plan as soon as possible to address the local Syphilis crisis.”

Page 23

Yo! Here we go again with this interesting question – what do baskets and a bunny have to do with Easter? I wondered about this, so off to the trusty internet to get some answers.

The name Easter comes from the German holiday in honor of Eostre, goddess of spring and fertility. The Christian Church modified this pagan holiday to celebrate Christ’s resurrection.

The concept of an Easter bunny originated with the “Pennsylvania Dutch” – the Germans who settled in Pennsylvania. Their children believed that if they were well behaved the Oschter Haws – the Easter Bunny – would leave a nest of brightly colored eggs for them on Easter morning. The children would build a little ‘nest’ for the eggs and leave it somewhere for the Oschter Haws to lay its colored eggs in, and this is how we have brightly colored baskets of eggs and candy today.

Some countries don’t have the Easter bunny. Switzerland has the Easter Cuckoo; Australia has an Easter Bilby – a marsupial with rabbitlike ears. In a folktale, Eostre turns her pet bird into a rabbit to entertain some children. As a trick, the rabbit lays colorful eggs – a common symbol for rebirth in many cultures. Historically, colorfully painted eggs were given to English servants were given by their masters as Easter gifts.

And what is the color of these Easter eggs? In Greece, eggs are painted red to symbolize Christ’s shed blood. In Germany, they are dyed green and distributed on Holy Thursday, the day of the Last Supper. In Poland, they are decorated with colored dots which represent the tears Mary wept at Christ’s crucifixion. In Armenia, the eggs are hollowed out and then decorated with religious scenes. And in Ukraine, melted beeswax is applied to the eggshell and the egg is dipped into a series of dyes. The wax peels off to reveal intricate patterns.

These eggs are called pysanki.

Easter, in the early years of Christianity, was an informal holiday. Those early Christians were persecuted and could not worship openly until Constantine became the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity in 325 A.D. He issued an edict stating Easter will always fall on the same weekend as Passover. Easter was to be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox (the first day of spring). Easter will always be on a Sunday between Mar. 22 and Apr 25.

Now you know how we identify the Sunday that will be called Easter Sunday – so Happy Easter!

A great leader for the Democrats, GEORGE X. SCHWARTZ, has passed. He was 90.

George was a lifelong Democrat who built the 34th Ward, which is located in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia, into a powerhouse ward. He was later elected to City Council and for eight years served as the President of City Council. He was meticulous about his dress.

He never appeared in public except wearing a freshly pressed suit, white shirt and French cuffs. His full head of silvery hair was always carefully combed. He was responsible for some excellent legislation and his main interest was in the field of education. He was a great patron of the Philadelphia Board of Education and was responsible for 100% cooperation between the School Board and the City Government. In addition to being a stellar Councilman, he was a first-class lawyer. His son BILL has followed in his footsteps and has acquired a reputation of being an outstanding trial lawyer. His protégé BOB BRADY is now the Congressman and his successor as ward leader.

An indication of the continuing growth of the Democratic Party in Philadelphia is the number of rumored contests that are underway for ward leader. They are the 1st, 2nd, 7th, 19th, 33rd, 55th and the 63rd. There must be something in the water in the 33rd Ward (Kensington), the 55th Ward (Mayfair) and the 63rd Ward (Pine Valley). These three wards have a history of turmoil.

JUDGE GENE MAIER and his wife LANA announced the recent book signing and art show at St. Joseph’s Hospital Nursing School was a financial success. All of the proceeds will be donated to the FSIL Nursing School in Léogâne, Haiti through the Haiti Nursing Foundation. The FSIL, which is located in Léogâne, is 30 miles from Port au Prince, which was the center of the earthquake damage. The nursing school was severely damaged but continues to function. The check will be presented to St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing students who are native Haitians and who were the sponsors of the show. The presentation will take place on graduation day, Apr. 5.

The 44th Ward’s Evening of Jazz, which featured Napoleon Black Redeemed and the 61st Band, was held recently at the George T. Cornish American Legion Post #282. It was a big success, much to the satisfaction of WILLIE JORDAN, the ward leader.

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SNOOPER’S “SOAPBOX”: Well, they went and did it, whether you liked it or not. Tell me, how are WE going to pay for this one? MR.OBAMA is taking us all to “THE POORHOUSE” and we can NO LONGER afford his ‘whims’. This Health Reform Bill is an absolute joke and, get this, ALL of those who did vote for it were DEMOCRATS. They will “rue the day” they passed this one; after all, none of them actually read this HEALTH REFORM BILL in its entirety, not even THE PRESIDENT. Hold still, this one isn’t over yet.

Let’s see what THE COURTS have to say about it. The ELECTIONS are coming up. They are going to be their “death knell” and you just know there’s going to be HELL TO PAY, because, WE GET OUR SAY. Why were WE never consulted? After all, they’re supposed to represent US too.

SNOOPER SCOOPER: WE told you all about him last week. You may recall, we mentioned in one of our items HON. JOSEPH EVERS, The Prothonotary of this City, would be taking over THE CLERK OF QUARTER SESSIONS unit. We also told you about the resignation of the HON. VIVIAN MILLER who was in charge of this office for years and, I might add, did a fantastic job while she was there too. The employees of this unit have already been informed NO ONE WILL LOSE THEIR JOBS when the official “takeover” takes place. This office will NO LONGER be an ELECTED POSITION. As a result of this action, The Courts and their Judges have taken over its operations and all its responsibilities. We wish MR.EVERS great success!

SNOOPER’S “EMAIL” SERVICES: Boss, here’s one I’m sure we here at the Public Record will appreciate. This young lady reads our SOUTH PHILLY RECORD, and she enjoys THE SNOOPER COLUMN. I want to let RORY know here is what she sent me. “I want to thank Rory, and your wonderful newspaper, I always look forward to reading it. The item you did regarding “THE DINOSAUR TRAIN” was one all my children thoroughly enjoyed – thanks to you. Yes, it’s exactly as you stated, very educational, and it’s really a lot of fun to watch. We would suggest to all PARENTS let your children watch WNJS-DT (23), also on WHYY-TV (12). You will love it too.”

SNOOPER A-L-E-R-T: To all those who participated in those ill-fated FLASH MOBS, The Police Commissioner, CHARLES RAMSEY, has had it with all of you. Commissioner Ram(Cont. Page 29)

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

“It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your kids are?”

Once upon a time, I used to hear that question during Action News on 6ABC. It was part of a public service campaign that the station was running.

But this time, I was hearing it from Mayor Michael Nutter as my mom and I were watching television on Saturday night on CW 57, something that kind of made me do a double-take initially. I mean, why should the Mayor of one of the nation’s largest cities be on television asking folks where their kids are?

However, my mom totally understood it, because every night at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. she’s in front of her outrageously large flat-screen television in Pemberton, N. J. watching the news from the city that she can’t understand why her youngest daughter chooses to live in.

Thanks, flash-mob kids! You’ve given my mom yet another reason to ask me, “When are you moving back to New Jersey?” Like I needed that!

When my nephew Phelan went to South Street on Friday night, he noticed the stepped-up police presence due to the waves of kids who decided to turn South Street into a battleground a couple of weeks ago. Apparently, they hopped on Twitter, Facebook, and other social networking sites to say, “Hey, let’s go to South Street and wild out!”

Meanwhile in Southwest Philly, a group of kids decided to beat up a woman just for the heck of it. A 12-year-old has been arrested for being the ringleader of this gang of knuckleheads. In another incident, an 11-year-old is looking at serious time for an assault.

So these days, folks are picking up their newspapers, turning on the news, and asking a question made popular by the musical “Bye, Bye Birdie”: “Kids, what’s the matter with kids today?”

Good question.

The City thinks the problem is not enough control, and they’re probably not wrong about that. To try and correct this issue, they’re enforcing curfew more stringently. They’re putting cops all over high-value targets like South Street on the weekends. They’re putting Mayor Nutter on TV to ask parents where their kids are.

But on its face, that seems like that’s all that’s being done. I just read a story on Tuesday that talked about how the City is about to sell a plot of land that includes a basketball court that neighborhood kids played on to someone for $1, in the name of senior-citizen housing.

(Cont. Page 28)

www.phillyrecord.com

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Page 24

Page 25

22nd Spirit Of The Port Awards

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

CONGRATULATING Bob Palaima, president of Delaware River Stevedores, operators of Tioga Terminal, on being designated by Sea Star Line for its 52 ships yearly to port are gubernatorial candidates State Sen. Anthony Williams, Joe Hoeffel and Dan Onorato.

REV. James D. Von Dreele, executive director and CEO of Seamen's Church Institute, conferred 22nd annual Spirit of the Port Award on Dennis Rochford and Lisa B. Himber.

World’s Largest Food Distribution Center To Debut In July 30 AMONG attendees at Seaman's Church 22nd annual Spirit Of The Port Awards were, from left, ILA Local 1291 Stevedores Marty Mascuilli, Joseph Loeper, Bob Palaima and gubernatorial candidate Joe Hoeffel.

NEW 686,000 sq.-ft. Phila. Wholesale Produce Market is scheduled to be turned over to Phila. Regional Port Authority on Jul. 30. $218.5 million project is approximately 60% complete as of today. Refrigeration system is currently being installed, as well as 5” insulated wall panels that frame out each of 27 tenant’s spaces. Recent progress includes over 100,000 sq. ft. of 2nd-floor office fit out, sprinkler-system installation, roofing, site utility installation, and recycle-building construction. Work scheduled to be performed in next ROUDLY ANAGING ENNSYLVANIA S month includes storage rack installation, paving, NTERNATIONAL EAPORT elevator installation, and refrigeration start up in SINCE 1990 one section of building.

P

I

M

P S

ʼ

Philadelphia Regional Port Authority A Promising Future

By Championing the Channel-Deepening Project And Substantial Port Expansion

Once Again, We Thank Gov. Ed Rendell For Giving Our Port A Great Opportunity And

John H. Estey, Esq. Chairman

James T. McDermott, Jr. Executive Director

John F. Dempsey

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

www.phillyrecord.com

Robert C. Blackburn

Senior Deputy Executive Director

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Page 26

After 32 years, Bridget still South St. queen

by Len Lear Lots of people think of Bridget Foy’s as a burp-andbeer place — the kind of cheesesteak joint for people who aren’t aware that street food tastes best while you’re leaning against a telephone pole. But the hip, funky bar/restaurant on the southwest corner of 2nd & South Streets in Philly’s version of Greenwich Village has been defying expectations for

longer than many of its customers have been alive.

John Foy, a Main Line native who went to Malvern Prep, and his wife, Bernadette, originally from Absecon, N. J., opened the East Philly Cafe in 1978, and it’s now one of very few Center City restaurants that have lasted more than three decades. In 1984, when their daughter Bridget was two years old, they renamed the restaurant Bridget Foy’s South Street Grill. (Now it’s simply Bridget Foy’s.) These

Walk In’s Welcomed A.J. Sbaraglia & Toni

days it’s not so unusual for owners to name a restaurant after their baby, but this is the only restaurant I ever heard of where that baby actually grew up to run the restaurant.

“Having the restaurant named after me did have an effect,” said Bridget last week, now a 28-year-old mom with a new baby of her own. “I practically grew up in the restaurant. Starting at age seven, I bussed tables, worked in the kitchen and waited on tables. I loved the business, so I guess it was inevitable that I would wind up making it a career.”

After high school, Bridget went off to Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island, one of the nation’s most prestigious culinary schools, where she studied restaurant management. After working as a manager in Manhattan restaurants, Bridget returned to Philly, where she has been general manager of the family’s restaurant for three years.

“With all the competition

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in this business,” she said, “there’s no way we could have lasted for 32 years without constantly changing and keeping up with the current trends. We do a complete renovation every six or seven years (the latest one was recently completed); we change the menu four times a year, and we always have daily specials. And we have a great rewards program that has about 5,000 people (in their data base). Every time you buy something, you accumulate points, and then you get a 10% return on every dollar as well as a gift certificate on your birthday.”

“You must keep adapting and changing,” added John.

“I am constantly checking out restaurants in New York and all over the place to see what they are doing. If an idea is working there, I will bring it home. I check with a man I know in Chicago who has 30 restaurants but who says he never had an original idea in his life. If something works, it really doesn’t matter where

Len Lear it came from.”

Although Bridget Foy’s is probably best known for its sandwiches and burgers, we loved the goat cheese salad with a colorful melange of fresh ingredients ($11), the feather-light braised short ribs with toothsome mac and cheese ($19) and a special of pappardelle pasta with mushrooms, chicken and sausage in a sensuous cream sauce ($14). The sangria ($8 for a glass, $26 for a pitcher) is definitely one of the best around. And our server,

Mia, was delightful. In addition, Bernadette Foy is a very talented artist whose paintings adorn the walls of all three floors of the restaurant.

In addition to its constantly changing contemporary American food offerings from chef Brendan Mullen, a Foy fixture for nine years, Bridget Foy’s is the oldest sidewalk cafe in Philadelphia. You might say it offers 45 outdoor orchestra seats to the passing Felliniesque symphony of South Street — the suits, briefcases, freaks, teenage wannabes, tattoos, Mohawk hairdos, motorcycle buffs, hippies, rollerbladers, dog walkers, musicians, spare-changers (“Hey, man, got any spare change?”), visitors from other planets and lately, the “flash mobs” of inner-city thugs. Is the widely publicized thuggery keeping away customers?

“We really have not seen any of that this far down on South Street,” said Bridget.

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world. Dwight was managed by the late, great Wesley Mouzon and trained by fellow inductee Quenzell McCall.

The four other living inductees are former world champions Charlie “Choo Choo” Brown and Gary Hinton, as well as top contenders Tyrone Crawley and Mike Everett.

Leading the “non-boxer” category, legendary trainer Quenzell McCall will be posthumously inducted. McCall guided so many fighters to prominence that it would be impossible to name each one individually. And, of

course, he was also the proprietor of the legendary Champs Gym. Champs Gym not only became known as one of the best boxing gyms in the city, it also gained notoriety far beyond the city’s limits. Numerous boxers from around the world would locate their training camps at the North Philly gym. Also in the “non-boxer” category will be popular ring announcer Ed Derian. Boxers Billy Arnold and Leotis Martin will also be posthumously inducted. All living inductees, family members of the deceased inductees, and numerous boxing alumni are expected to attend. For more information, please call John Gallagher at (215) 465-1778.

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

All the ballots have been counted and the results are in for the 2010 Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fame class.

Nine boxing luminaries will be enshrined at the 76th annual banquet which will take place on Sunday, May 16 at Romano’s Caterers in Philadelphia starting at 4 p.m.

Heading the 2010 class will be former two-time world champion, Dwight Muhammad Qawi. Born Dwight Braxton, he started his boxing career at Joe Frazier’s Gym and went on to win the lightheavyweight and cruiserweight championship of the

Qawi Heads 2010 Class

Page 27

Ringside With The Shadowboxer

215-271-1644 5th & Oregon

Nuts, Candy, Fruits, Snacks

10% off with the purchase of $10 or more.

Exp: Apr. 30,2010

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The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Page 28

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, April 20, 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-038 (C) of 2009/10* General Contract Horace H. Furness HS $300,000.00 $100.00 Asbestos Abatement 1900 S. 3rd Street

*A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on March 26, 2010 at 1:30 p.m.

FEE BUDGET B-037 (C) of 2009/10* General Contract Anna H. Shaw MS Asbestos Abatement 5400 Warrington Ave.

$275,000.00 $ 100.00

*A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on March 26, 2010 at 11:00 p.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 215-400-5225. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.

Out & About (Cont. From Page 23) Don’t get me wrong. I know senior citizens here in Philly need affordable places to live.

Heck, I’m not a senior citizen and I could use an affordable place to live.

However, these kids need places to play. They need places to blow off steam.

They need places where they can learn what the concept of a Flash Mob is supposed to be all about, which is to get a big group of people to gather in one place and do something silly like hop on one leg for 30 seconds or do the Electric Slide. If the city is really seri-

ous about calming this crap down, they need to give kids alternatives to walking up to a woman who had just lost her child to gun violence and punching her in the face.

But hold it right there, parents. You are still very much on my hook. You need to step up. Before you find yourself crying, “My baby didn’t hurt nobody!” in a courtroom, you need to make sure your baby didn’t, indeed, hurt anybody.

I say this because I’ve seen what happens to kids when parents don’t act like parents.

Once upon a time when I was must have been going through a bout of temporary insanity, I taught English at

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, April 6, 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.

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.

B-043 (C) of 2009/10

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, April 27, 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.

FEE BUDGET B-019 (C) of 2008/09* General Contract Kennedy C. Crossan ES $1,200,000.00 $ 200.00 Roof Replacement 7350 Bingham Street *A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on April 14, 2010 at 9:30 a.m.

B-022 (C) of 2009/10* Electrical Contract Relight

F. Amadee Bregy ES 1700 Bigler Street

BUDGET $850,000.00

FEE $ 100.00

my alma mater, Pemberton Township HS. I had kids who really paid attention, and I also had kids whose sole purpose in coming to class was to see if this was the day they finally got Ms. Clay to curse them out.

Because the latter group of kids was also the kids who were failing my class, I would call their parents and ask them to come in and talk with me about ways that we could work together to keep their kids from having to repeat 11th-grade English.

I’m still waiting for those meetings. If I tripped over some of these parents, I (Cont. Page 29)

Electrical Contract Various Locations Electrical Outlet Installation

BUDGET $1,000,000.00

FEE $ 25.00

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 215400-5225. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.

The School Reform Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and make the awards to the best interests of the School District of Philadelphia.

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, April 20, 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.

*A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on April 9, 2010 at 1:00 p.m.

www.phillyrecord.com

B-042 (C) of 2008/09* General Contract Door Replacement

William B. Mann ES 5376 West Berks Street

BUDGET $250,000.00

FEE $ 100.00

*A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on April 5, 2010 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 215400-5225. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.

The School Reform Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and make the awards to the best interests of the School District of Philadelphia.

BUDGET B-018 (C) of 2009/10 Mechanical Contract William H. Loesche ES Boiler Replacement 595 Tomlinson Road

B-019 (C) of 2009/10 Electrical Contract Boiler Replacement

William H. Loesche ES 595 Tomlinson Road

FEE $1,200,000.00 $ 200.00

BUDGET $125,000.00

FEE $ 200.00

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 215400-5225. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.

The School Reform Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and make the awards to the best interests of the School District of Philadelphia.

Out & About (Cont. From Page 28) wouldn’t know it. I called more than once and some of the excuses I would hear, my favorite being, “I have to work,” would kinda tick me off. Not because I’m insensitive or because I believe you need to take time out of your day for me, but because if you’re going to take time out to hang out with friends, go out drinking, or go out and chase down another mate, you should at least make time to find out what the heck is going on with your kid academically.

Besides, these people were making these excuses to

found out it was being held in A MANSION. Hey Chief, have you ever heard of THE KNOWLTON MANSION? Get this, it’s here in Philadelphia. I went, and let me tell you, it was truly A SPORTS FANTASY. THE MANSION was packed with C.E.O.S, COACHES, BASEBALL PLAYERS and even UMPIRES. Frank Spatacco, the founder of THE N.E.P.L., and its President, Frank Connelly, were the gracious hosts for this fantastic event. Yes, it was a BIRTHDAY PARTY I’ll never forget.

Seth Schedules Community Meets Seth Williams is reaching out to community groups around the city to bring them up to date as to what his office has accomplished and what it intends to in the near future.

Remaining meetings scheduled are Apr. 4, 7-8 p.m. with East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association at St. Neumann Goretti HS, 11th & Moore; Apr. 13, 7-9

p.m., Logan Square Neighborhood Association at Senior Living, William Penn room, 150 N. 20th Street; Apr. 15, 7-8 p.m., Fishtown Neighbors Association at Recreation Center, 1202 E. Montgomery Avenue; and Apr. 20, 7-8 p.m., Lawncrest Civic Association at St. Williams Church, Devereaux Avenue and Rising Sun Avenue.

someone whose father would literally come directly from whatever war zone the Army had dumped him into, to my school, to find out what was going on with me and my twin brother Dennis academically. Until you can come up with a better excuse to miss a parent/teacher conference than “I was taking enemy fire”, I’m not trying to hear you.

So when Mayor Nutter shows up on your television set and says, “It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your kids are?” it would behoove you to be able to answer, “Yes!” Otherwise, we’re all going to be the worse for it, especially your kids.

Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937

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FRIENDS who really care about him. Judge Merriweather happens to be one of “THE CLASSIEST JUDGES OF THE COURT”, and one who is loved by so many people, especially Roger King, who was formerly the Number One Prosecutor in theD.A.’s Office.

SNOOPER’S SPORTS FANTASY EVENT: Chief, this was unbelievable. A friend of mine gave me this invitation for THE N.E.P.L. (Northeast Peanut League), which was celebrating its 30th ANNIVERSARY. I thought nothing of it until I

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

(Cont. From Page 23) sey stated, “The parents had better start getting involved with their children. After all, they had them, now let them take care of them. I’ll tell all of you right now, if they come to me, I GOT SOMETHING FOR THEM.” It was very obvious to all of us at the press conference, THE COMMISSIONER MEANS BUSINESS. He’s going to pull out ALL THE STOPS to assure THE MERCHANTS and THE CITIZENS of this City these types of actions WILL NOT BE TOLERATED! SNOOPER’S COURTHOUSE NEWS: “This is the same type of a situation that could have happened down on SOUTH STREET. We MUST get a hold on these KIDS.” Chief, this statement was made by HON. JAMES DeLEON, Judge of MUNICIPAL COURT. The Judge made these remarks while conducting a Preliminary Hearing in The C.J.C. building involving FOUR TEENAGERS who killed a PIZZA DELIVERY MAN.

These scums lured the delivery man into a vacant house, with the intent to rob him.

However, it went terribly wrong, and the delivery man wound up DEAD. He ordered the two defendants to stand trial on charges of 3rd Degree Murder, Conspiracy, Robbery, Carjacking, and Theft.

The fourth defendant’s case was postponed to Jun. 2. This scum was 14 years of age.

The victim, 60 years old!

SNOOPER SCOOPER: I have never seen so many people in one place. There were hundreds of people here for “THE RON MERRIWEATHER BENEFIT”.

Charles Peruto, Esq., Joe Santaguida, Esq., Ike Green, Esq., and tons of other wellknown “Philly Lawyers”.

Yes, his ‘fellow Judges’ would also be here for him. They were President Judge, Hon. Marsha Niefield - Municipal Court, Judge Joseph O’Neill, Judge Jimmy DeLeon, Judge Charlie Cunningham, Judge Wendy Pew, Judge Pete Rogers, and a host of other Court Officials. Judge Merriweather would be pleased to know he has so many

Page 29

Snooper

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The Public Record • April 1, 2010

Page 30

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The Public Record • April 1, 2010

ADOPTION OR PERSONALS Adopt: Energetic creative childless couple promises love, wonderful future, stay-at-home mom, lots of cousins. Expenses Paid. www.CuddlyHome.com; e m a i l CuddlyHome@yahoo.com or call Marianne/ Dan toll-free 1877-739-6889 ADULT COMMUNITY REAL ESTATE Smithville, NJ - 55+ FOUR SEASONS - Large MULBURY Model, handicap accessible, 2 sunrooms, premium lot. Near AC and shore. Owner Financing 3% 609-748-2988, 609335-5124.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Insurance Agency for Sale. Affiliated with major national carrier. A great business opportunity! Please send inquires to: agencyforsalePA@aol.com or Fax: 866-296-7535 ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy All for $9,995. 1-800-460-4027 HELP WANTED Drivers: NO MONEY DOWN! NO CREDIT CHECKS! Top Lease Purchase Plan! *Low Monthly Payments! *High % Pay Package. Owner Operators Welcome! 1-800-767-6918 www.JoinCRST.com HELP WANTED DRIVER REGIONAL DRIVERS NEEDED! MORE HOMETIME! TOP PAY! Up to $.43/mile company drivers! 12 months OTR required. HEARTLAND EXPRESS 1-800-441-4953 www.heartlandexpress.com CDL-A Drivers: Our Freight Needs You! OTR Flatbed & Dry Van. High Miles, Great Runs, Good Driving Record Required.

Western Express. Call Nancy 888-801-5295 Driver Trainees Needed. OTR, Regional, Local Companies Looking for 50 drivers. Training in your area! $600-$900/Week earning potential. Great Health Benefits. No CDL-No Problem.

1-800-961-4319 DRIVERS-O/O’s (Run local or long haul) Dedicated, OFF weekends, No brokers - Miles, no layovers EVER! Sign on bonus, paid orientation, lease purchase 800-494-3532

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Public Record Classifieds: small ADS BIG Deals

Drivers: Home Weekends.

Lots of Miles up to $.54/mile Excellent Benefits. 401k, Pd Vac CDL-A 2yrs Exp.

888-880-5912

K & A Auto Salvage Inc. 2160-66 E. Somerset - Phila., PA 19134 215-423-4255 Fax: 215-423-4256 In accordance with chapter 73 of the vehicle Code Authorization of the department of Transportation the Following vehicles will be publicly auctioned @ K&A Auto salvage Inc. 2160 E Somerset St on March 30, 2010@8:00 YEAR MAKE Nissan Exterra

VIN# 5n1ed28y93c644255

AVC# 861853

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www.phillyrecord.com

The Public Record • April 1, 2010

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