Vol. V No. 43 (Issue 221) The Only Union Newspaper Reporting South Philly The Way It Deserves
January 5, 2012
Strutting To A New Day Job
CONCERNED Pennsport residents are joining Mummers organizers, officials and civic leaders so scenes like these do not happen ever again on New Year’s Day along 2-Street. (See Page 2)
‘Krausey’s Koats’ Keep 2,000 Warm This Winter by Maria Merlino Thousands of Philadelphians will feel a lot warmer this winter, thanks to a coat drive that kicked off on Second Street this week. Six years ago, DJ. Joe Krause founded “Krausey’s Koats” in an (Cont. page 2)
For A Shooting Star And A Froggy Carr, 2012 Is Just The Beginning by Rory McGlasson Two Philadelphia mummers started the year with a spring in their step as they strutted up Broad Street this week. Grays Ferry mummer Sean Kennedy was strutting with his fellow wenches of Froggy Carr on Sunday. Hours later, he was dressed in cap and gown as he became a member of the Court of Common Pleas (Cont. Page 2)
IBEW Local 98’s Brian Stevenson and DJ Joe Krause collected more than 2,000 coats during four-hour coat drive at Doc’s Union Pub.
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South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897 To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108
The South Philadelphia Public Record • January 5, 2012
1904 S. 30th Street • Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax) Executive Board: President- Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick
Vice-President-Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella
2012 Big Year For New Council Members, Elected Officials (Cont. From Page 1) on Monday morning. It was a similar scenario for a Shooting Star, Mark Squilla. The Whitman native traded the make-up and thrills for shirt and tie, Monday as he officially became the new Councilman in the 1st Dist. Six new Council mMembers were sworn in to office this week -- two of them from South Philadelphia. Getting to work this week in the 1st Dist. is Whitman native Squilla. In the 2nd, Point Breeze native Kenyatta Johnson started his new day job at City Hall. Squilla, 49, replaces Frank Di Cicco who held the office for 16 years. Johnson, who was State Rep. in the 182nd Dist. for three years, replaces longtime Councilwoman Anna Verna.
215-755-2000 Fax: 215-689-4099 Editor@phillyrecord.com
(Cont. From Page 1) effort begun by begun by radio personality Joe Krause of Philadelphia -– collecting gently used cold-weather gear for those in need this winter. Krausey’s Koats, with the support of the IBEW, began in Philadelphia six years ago and has collected over 15,000 coats since its inception. Too many people have to choose between putting food on the table and purchasing a coat each winter. As our fellow citizens struggle during the winter months because they are unable to afford proper coldweather attire, your coat and clothing donations matter this year more than ever. Krause is honoring his late
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(1) (1) MAYOR Michael Nutter took the oath for a second term at Monday’s inauguration ceremony held at AcadREGISTER of Wills Ron emy of Music. Donatucci is again sworn in to head one of City Hall’s (2) IT’S OFFICIAL! The New most-important public de- City Council is sworn into ofpartments. fice .
(3)
Photo by Joe Stivala
Grays Ferry resident Judge Sean Kennedy was sworn into the Court of Common Pleas on Monday. Monday was the first day back at work for Register of Wills, Ronald Donatucci, too.
(3) 2ND DIST. COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson is welcomed to City Council by Mayor Michael Nutter as council colleagues look on. Photos by McGlasson Photography
Coat Drive Keeps Many Warm
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Board Members John Savarese Louis Galdo Mark Rago Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti
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father-in-law, Frank Conti. “I grew up without a father, so when he passed away, I wanted to do something special for him. He was very involved with the St. Vincent DePaul Society. His mission was to help those less fortunate. I wanted to continue that mission.” Krause, who is married to Virginia and is the father of Joseph, Zander, Kateri, Isabelle and Brittny, has come a long way in his collection of used or new coats. “I collected 334 coats that year and personally distributed them to homeless people. Last year I collected 6,611 coats. This drive is powered by IBEW Local 98, fueled by the Hair Cuttery and broadcast by WMGK on-
air personality Andre Gardner. I also want to say that Doc (John Dougherty, business manager of Local 98) has been with me from jump street. Without Doc, there would be no coat drive. Last year, we collected 2,200 coats just from Doc’s Union Pub!” This year Krause is going regional because of the Hair Cuttery. He also sits on the Mid-Atlantic Region Advisory Board of the US Army. He’s collaborated with the Army to do pick-ups. “They will sort the coats and distribute them to designated areas.” If you want to donate, there is a Facebook page: Krausey’s Koat Drive Hair Cuttery.”
Meeting Planned To Help Manage Post-Mummers Parade Partying The annual post-Mummers Parade festivities on Two Street turned ugly, after a few people started fighting on New Year‘s Day. Late at night, a barricade collapsed at 2nd and Pierce Streets. Media outlets across the Delaware Valley have shown a video on its respective websites of the scene. However, a group of concerned residents have vowed it will never happen again. Dan Stevenson, a local activist, who only last week used his social-media page on Facebook to help police apprehend the suspect for the robbery of Qin’s Grocery Store, located at 1100 W. Moyamensing Avenue, on Dec. 27, is using his popular page, to reassure Mummers next year will be under better control. “Our neighborhood is stressed to its breaking point on New Year’s Day,” Stevenson said. “In the next few weeks we will have meetings with Councilman Squilla, the
Police Dept., vendors, local businesses and, of course, the Mummer groups that march through our neighborhood. “I believe we can work together to formulate a game plan for a successful New Years Day for everyone. “Hopefully we can come up with a plan to address the public-safety and quality-oflife issues that have been plaguing this neighborhood and parade for years.” Mummers club leaders and residents want police to crack down on the under-age drinking that provokes acts of violence, and disorderly conduct. The weather, an influx of people from outside of the Pennsport area, and sports fans in town because of the Flyers winter-classic hockey game added to the number of people on 2 Street. Stevenson said he will be meeting with Capt. Ryan of the Police 3rd Dist. this week to talk about how to better control events on New Year’s Day.
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 Columnist: Hon. Charles Hammock Dan Sickman: Veteran Affairs Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Campaign Finance Reporter : David Lynn Photographers: Donald Terry Harry Leech Steven Philips Production Manager: William J. Hanna Bookkeeping: Haifa Hanna Webmaster: Sana Muaddi-Dows Advert. Director: John David Controller: John David Account Exec: Bill Myers 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. Contact us by phone, fax, e-mail or by dropping us a note in the mail. If you mail a news item, please include your name, address and daytime telephone number so we can verify the information you provided us, if necessary. The Public Record reserves the right to edit all news items and letters for grammar, clarity and brevity. ©1999-2011 by the Philadelphia Public Record. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. The Philadelphia Public Record will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public.
Out Of District, Out Of Primary
197th Vacancy Draws Another
A veteran campaigner is eyeing a primary run in the 197th Legislative seat left vacant by State Rep. Jewell Williams (D-N. Phila.), who
Tea Party PAC Endorses Romney
The Independence Hall Tea Party PAC, a tri-state (Del.-Penna.-N.J.) regional group’s 27-member Board of Delegates has voted overwhelmingly to endorse Mitt Romney for President. The Independence Hall Tea Party PAC is the first Tea Party group in the nation to formally endorse Mitt Romney. “Over the past several weeks, a consensus has been building among our Board of Delegates that Mr. Romney is the most electable Republican candidate,” said PAC President Don Adams. “We, as a Tea Party PAC, have set winning the White House as our number one priority in 2012. We believe Mr. Romney is the one candidate who can win the Republican nomination and defeat President Barack Obama in November. “Mr. Romney is the only Republican candidate who has consistently polled even or ahead of President Obama in national surveys. He puts a number of 2008 blue states in play, including Michigan and New Hampshire. He also appeals to large numbers of independent voters.” “Mr. Romney, a devoted family man, is an incredibly talented, well-rounded individual with in-depth knowledge and experience in both the private and public sectors of the economy,” said PAC New Jersey VP Bill Green. “Ultimately, we believe Mr. Romney is a man of principle who, once elected, will lead our nation back to prosperity.” PAC Delaware VP Kevin Street said, “Mr. Romney has stated time and again he believes in a limited role for the Federal government – emphasizing the 10th Amendment of the United States Constitution
delineates between the powers of the national government and that of the States.” “Mr. Romney will pursue a policy of energy independence, lower taxes, and less government spending. He has promised to secure our borders and redirect our foreign policy,” added PAC Pennsylvania VP Sean Carpenter. “Under his presidency, the United States will no longer prostrate itself before other nations.” PAC Co-Founder Teri Adams said, “We realize a number of fellow Tea Partiers are not yet where we are in supporting Mitt Romney for President – and we respect their varied positions. “However, we felt compelled to make an endorsement in light of a counter-productive effort to stop Mitt Romney among some disparate elements on the right – often based on a religious intolerance of Mr. Romney’s Mormon faith. “We also think the notion the Tea Party will support a 3rd-party candidate after Mitt
Romney becomes the Republican nominee, a notion most often advanced by the mainstream media, must be discredited,” Ms. Adams said. The Independence Hall Tea Party Association, the sister organization of the Independence Hall Tea Party PAC, was formed in May, 2009 after two successful Tea Parties held at Independence Mall. The Association is the largest Tea Party group in the tri-state region. State Dems See Silver Lining
Executive Director of the State Democrat Party Kevin Washo sees a silver lining in the new redistricting map for Pennsylvania. He says despite the fact Republicans tried hard to gerrymander the State into the red column, it won’t happen. He mentioned the 7th congressional Dist. “even been recognized as one of the five most-gerrymandered districts in the nation. But five of the new congressional Districts, 3, 7, 9, 11, and 18, are still
Councilman Wm.
considered winnable districts for the Democrat Party.” Missing At Inauguration
Newly elected Traffic Court Judge Christine Solomon was missing from the swearing-in ceremonies at Academy of Music. She’ll be sworn in as soon as she completes the judicial training course set up for District Judges in Chambersburg, Pa. Battered, But Still A Fighter
Former State Sen. Vincent Fumo is now back at his prison after almost two months of tortuous and circuitous routing on the diesel bus tour by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Still he insisted on maintaining a tradition in absentia: his annual Christmas Party at his home on Greene Street.
Though not there, he was able to communicate with his guests, more than a score of close friends, via the telephone, as they saluted his anticipated return. We predict Vince will make a better political comeback than did his predecessor State Sen. Henry “Buddy” Cianfrani, becoming as much, if not more, of a guru for all politicos. He’ll get his attorney’s privileges back in due course, and without a bank and branches to worry over as well as senatorial chores, Vince will be looking for something to occupy his time. What else but politics? Cade Announces For Auditor General
Philadelphian Devon Cade has announced his candidacy (Cont. Page 5)
STATE REP. JOHN
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State Senator
Senator Tina
Tartaglione 2nd Dist. 127 W. Susquehanna Ave. 1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19122 Philadelphia, PA 19124
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Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 Fax: (215) 492-2990 Always Hard Working .. . for You!
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This is a word of caution for those primary contenders who have found their registration affidavit no longer belongs in the newly realigned legislative or senatorial district to which they had planned to aspire as a primary candidate. It comes from one of Pennsylvania’s top electoral gurus. An amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution in May 2001 settled the matter. It even applied to incumbents, whose home and voting residence were redistricted out of the district which they represented. They could finish a term, but they couldn’t run in that district again. Once an incumbent was redistricted out of the legislative, senatorial or congressional district, that meant the end of his career at term’s end, unless he decided to move into the new district for the one-year requirement. The need for the amendment was obvious back then when Republican State Sen. Jeffrey Pecora’s district was redrawn and swapped down from Allegheny Co. to Montgomery, Berks and Chester Cos. He continued to be the Senator until his term expired.
was sworn in this week as Sheriff of Philadelphia. He’s Ben Ramos, who held the 180th Dist. seat in 1996 and 1998 and now finds himself in the 197th Dist. He announced his candidacy Monday. Favored to win the primary is Ms. Jewel Williams, the daughter of Sheriff Williams.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
“Pennsylvanians deserve to finally have an openly gay voice in the State legislature, and we’re going to fight alongside you to make that happen.” With those words, Chuck Wolfe, President of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, is pushing his fund, its money, and his group behind State Rep. Babette Josephs’ (D-S. Phila.) first serious opponent in years, Brian Sims. Sims will be using that endorsement to kick-start his campaign to unseat Babette for the 182nd Dist. for which she has set a longevity record, first taking that seat in 1984. She is the senior female legislator in the House.
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Gay Victory Fund Endorses Sims In 182nd
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Kitchen Probes DPW’s Cost Cuts Outraged by a recent newspaper article on the purging of a staggering number of Medical Assistance recipients, State Sen. Shirley Kitchen (D-N. Phila.) said she will call for public hearings to investigate the Pennsylvania Dept. of Welfare’s process for cutting costs and rooting out so-called “fraud and waste.” “We are in the worst economic times of our lifetime, and instead of strengthening our resources for the vulnerable, DPW seems to be kick-
ing them to the curb,” said Kitchen, who is the Democratic chair of the Senate Public Health & Welfare Committee. “It is the committee’s responsibility to ensure citizens are receiving access to the assistance they deserve, and this news demands a closer look by the committee. The Dept. of Public Welfare must show accountability for its recent actions.” The newspaper reports indicated 150,000 people – including 43,000 children –
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have been cut from Medical Assistance since August. Around 90,000 people were cut off in November alone. Medical Assistance provides health care services for 2 million eligible Pennsylvanians, the majority of whom are elderly or disabled. “We need to see a clear, concise breakdown of who exactly is being cut from Medicaid and why,” Kitchen said. “The Corbett administration claims it is dropping enrollees who died, moved, or are ineligible, but we don’t know how accurate this is because the administration has not provided any numbers.” The 2011-12 State budget mandated DPW make more than $470 million in cuts. “In the administration’s attempts to cut costs, I fear too many seniors, children and individuals with a disability are being denied the access to care they require,” Kitchen said. “Medicaid is supposed
to be a safety net, but instead our most vulnerable citizens are falling through. It is inexcusable.”
Williams Hosts Small Business Workshop State Sen. Anthony H. Williams (D-W. Phila.), in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania and the law firm of Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC, will host an upcoming employment workshop to provide small businesses with resources and a forum to discuss their issues. The free lunch workshop for small businesses (under 100 employees) will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Pennsylvania, Claudia Cohen Hall, Terrace Room on the Perelman Triangle, 36th & Walnut Streets. The workshop will focus on labor issues, including
wages, overtime, what to do when a business is audited, maintaining employment in a competitive market, harassment training, risk management and more. The number of small employers in Pennsylvania was 236,775 in 2006, accounting for 98.4% of the state’s employers and 49.9% of its private-sector employment, according to the US Dept. of Commerce. “Small businesses are the heart and soul of our communities. They are owned by and employ our neighbors and contribute directly to the financial stability of our state. In this economy, more than ever, we need to help them thrive,” Williams said. “I encourage local small-business owners to participate in this informative workshop.” Call (215) 492-2980 to RSVP. For more information, visit www.senatoranthonyhwilliams.com.
DeLissio Schedules Town Hall Meets State Rep. Pam DeLissio (D-Northwest) will hold a series of town-hall meetings in early January. “If you are concerned about how state government and the decisions made in Harrisburg affect you, your family and your community, please consider attending one of these meetings,” DeLissio said. “We will discuss what is happening in the state legislature and what the coming year may bring for us and our community.” All town-hall meetings will begin at 7 p.m. DeLissio said constituents may attend the meeting most convenient for them: Tuesday, Jan. 10, Wolcoff Auditorium, Roxborough Memorial Hospital, 5800 Ridge Avenue; Wednesday, Jan. 11, Union Fire Hall, 149 Mont(Cont. Page 31)
Montco Dems Celebrate Inauguration
The Public Record • January 5, 2012,
(Cont. From Page 3) in the Democrat Primary for State Auditor General. His last go-around was as a candidate for a House seat in 2006. He was erroneously listed earlier as a candidate for the 2nd congressional Dist. Progressives Laud 20 Legislative Heroes
Keystone Progress announced its 2011 Legislative Heroes list, which includes 20 State Representatives. The “Heroes” were included for voting with the Keystone Progress position on all 11 of its key legislative votes last year. All 20 legislators will be honored at an awards ceremony at this year’s Pennsylvania Progressive Summit, to be held in Philadelphia the weekend of Feb. 10-12 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Honorees include State Reps. Louise Williams Bishop, Tim Briggs, Vanessa Lowery Brown, Michelle Brownlee, Mark Cohen, Pam DeLissio, Dan Frankel, Robert Freeman, Michael Gerber, Babette Josephs, Michael O’Brien, Cherelle Parker, James Roebuck, Steven Santarsiero, Michael Sturla, Curtis Thomas, Greg Vitali, Jewell Williams and Rosita Youngblood. Kinsey In 201st
Stephen Kinsey will seek the 201st Legislative Dist.seat with the endorsement of retiring State Rep. John Myers (DN. Phila.). Kinsey is Myers’ chief of staff.
AT PRE-INAUGURAL reception Monday night at Normandy Farm Hotel & Conference Center in Blue Bell, from left, new Montgomery Co. Democratic Commissioners Josh Shapiro and Leslie Richards rejoice with County Democratic Photo By Bonnie Squires chairman Marcel Groen.
FROM LEFT, Bob Waldman, Steve Tolliver, State Rep. Mike Gerber and Upper Dublin Democratic Chair Betsy Parziale joined hundreds of happy suburbanites at Shapiro-Richards pre-inaugural. Photo By Bonnie Squires Councilman Bill
]|ÅÅç W|Çà|ÇÉ Green Room 599 GOP
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The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has created an insurance program called the PA FAIR CARE program. It helps Pennsylvanians with pre-existing health conditions. Many Pennsylvanians with pre-existing health conditions may find private health insurance plans to be unaffordable. The PA FAIR CARE program is subsidized with money from the federal government to make health insurance more affordable for people with pre-existing conditions. For more information or to submit an enrollment application, please call toll-free 1-888-767-7015 or visit www.pafaircare.com
State Senator
Larry Farnese First Senate District Tel. 215-952-3121 1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145
www.SenatorFarnese.com
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JOSH SHAPIRO is congratulated by Bill Sasso, one of a number of leading Republicans who came to congratulate Democrats who won the Montgomery Co. Commissioners race for Photo By Bonnie Squires first time in history.
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A NGEL C RUZ
RONALD G. WATERS 191st Leg. District
IMPORTANCE of first Democratic takeover in the history of Montgomery Co. was emphasized by attendance of Phila.’s State ROB FOX, chairman of Shapiro-Richards Rep. Dwight Evans and Councilwoman Transition Team, is delighted with new regime, as he tells Democratic activist Mark Aronchick. Marian Tasco.
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Progs Plan Awards For Host Of State Reps
SHERIFF JEWE L L WILLIAMS thanks crowd that joined him to mark his inauguration with celebration Monday night. Sheriff hats were in abundance. Photo
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Posse Of Supporters Welcomes Sheriff Jewell Williams
by Robert Mendelsohn
SHERIFF JEWEL WILLIAMS is sworn in again by Judge Karen Yvette Simmons at gala held in his honor by At formal swearing in, he wore sheriff’s official officer uniform as did several of his inspectors, captains and Photo by Robert Mendelsohn deputies.
AMONG supporters at Inauguration night festivities were Councilwoman Blondell Renolds Brown, State Rep. Vanessa Brown and labor leader Henry Nicholas. Photo by Robert Mendelsohn
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Sen. Farnese Gets ‘A’ In Fundraising State Sen. Larry Farnese (DS. Phila.) has sent up enough signals to potential challengers, it is doubtful if any will seriously consider running against him this primary. One of the strongest is his fundraising prowess. He went from being dead broke and in the hole for several hundred thousand to where he is now in the surplus. With that surplus, he has let it be known he is comfortable enough to hire campaign staff early on. Another signal is the fact the 8th Ward Democrat Executive Committee has elected him to be its new ward leader, replacing Commission Chairwoman Stephanie Singer, who resigned that post as she had pledged if elected. The last is the fact, as the year came to a close and Political Action Committees filed their year-end “Cycle 7” campaign-finance reports, many note the impressive fundraising finish to 2011 for Friends of Farnese, the
PAC for Farnese. During the Senator’s first three years of his freshman term, Farnese set a hectic pace for fundraising. For each year, he was listed among the top 10 nonelection-year fundraisers in the city. Having to pay off his debt may have kept him from accumulating impressive cash on hand totals, but it allowed him the steadily incoming funds to pay for staff for Friends of Farnese, lend financial support to at least a dozen other political campaigns, as well as donate to literally hundreds of community causes and groups in just his first 36 months. Farnese has begun to build his war chest for his 2012 reelection campaign. In the last 100 days Farnese held 11 events, drawing on a diverse and deep pool of supporters, including private events held by law firms and business leaders, an event hosted by Philadelphia Labor Leaders including AFL-CIO head Pat Ei-
ding, a breakfast’s reception with Harrisburg power brokers, and numerous other public events at restaurants and bars throughout his diverse district. This end-of-the-year blitz has garnered some impressive results. Friends of Farnese eliminated all of its debt, paid for additional campaign staff to be hired and campaign materials to be purchased, and still maintains well over $100,000 cash on hand in reserve. Farnese’s campaign-finance report will show a high number of individual donations from members of the Philadelphia region’s business community, as well as list large showings of support from a number of his Democratic colleagues in the Senate, Mayor Nutter and outgoing Council President Anna Verna. The report will also show an impressive array of labor support, including large donations from public sector, buildingtrades unions and service-industry unions.
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City Controller Alan Butkovitz is telling the City Procurement Dept. the 15-year-old database software application they use to account for the City’s $472 million equipment inventory could lead to major hacking. His audit showed since 1996, the software has undergone four major revisions but the Department never obtained the upgraded versions. The software is no longer supported by the Microsoft developer. “By failing to keep its software updated, the Procurement Department has created the potential for unwanted risks,” said Butkovitz. “Old, outdated software can cause flawed transactions and can open the door to the threat of malicious programs and hackers.” Butkovitz continued, “The Procurement Dept. needs to immediately replace its old software with a newer database application that meets today’s technology standards.”
UT O B A ASK ULL OUR F R A 30 YE TEE AN GUAR
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to exist between the Muslim community and police. During the meeting, Capt. David Bellamy offered to provide sensitivity training to the officers of the 18th Police Dist. with the assistance and support of Muslim leaders. Imam Asim Abdul-Rashid, Amir of the Majlis Ash-Shura of Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley, a consultative body of Muslim leaders, and Imam Abu Mashkuwr N. AbdulKhabiyr of the Al-Mateen Islamic Center offered their organizations’ help with the training and to work collaboratively to alleviate concerns within the Muslim community and to build positive partnerships moving forward. Williams, Safety Net and ShopRite on Dec. 17 held the most successful gun buy-back event in several years in Southwest Philadelphia in their ongoing effort to curb gun violence on the city’s streets. Williams is a longtime ardent supporter of implementing actions to reduce gun violence and improve the quality of life for the community. The line of weapons outside was a sharp contrast to the line of children waiting to enter a Christmas bazaar inside the Francis Myers Recreation Center at the same time. “The children who came with their families to enjoy a fun day at the recreation center are the number one reason why we need to get guns off the streets,” said Williams. The 12th Police Dist. and SWAT officers took possession of 279 handguns and rifles. The 279 weapons included 81 long arms and shotguns; 184 handguns; and14 starter pistols and bb guns. Only three handguns collected were identified as in stolen status. The 279 guns are more than double the 131 guns collected at this event in the 12th Police Dist. in 2010. ShopRite gave everyone who turned in their guns $100 gift cards to help families with their holiday meals. “I am tremendously proud of the citizens of Philadelphia for joining me in this effort to rid our streets of guns,” said Williams. There were 320 homicides so far in Philadelphia last year, up from 2010, according to statistics from the Philadelphia Police Dept.
STATE SEN. Anthony Williams presents Julius Jackson of Yeadon, an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, with a Senate citation in gratitude for his service to our country prior to a Dec. 8 Senate panel discussion on workforce solutions for returning service members. Jackson was one of the trailblazing Tuskegee Airmen, first African American military aviators in US Armed Forces.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Facilitated by State Sen. Anthony H. Williams (D-W. Phila.), police and members of the Muslim community recently came together to work toward easing tensions after a West Philadelphia man, later identified as a Muslim, was critically wounded by police in November. One of Williams’ top priorities is liberating neighborhoods from violence and improving the quality of life for its residents. In that regard, Williams has organized several meetings between the communities and police within the 8th senatorial Dist. “It is unacceptable for people to live in fear because of violence on our streets,” said Williams. “We have to find ways for the police and the community to work cooperatively toward the single goal of making our neighborhoods safe, whether it is through Town Watches, civic associations, or ongoing community meetings.” Community leaders sought the Senator’s assistance to mend the cultural divide that appears
Williams Salutes Tuskegee Airman
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Williams Gun Buy-Back Gets 279 Guns Off Streets
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Collecting Winter Coats
JOE KRAUSE and Andre Gardner of WMGK Radio held Krausey’s Coat Drive at Doc’s Union Pub. Hundreds of gently worn winter coats were turned in for needy families. IBEW Local 98 sponsored event. Holding coats are Joe Krause, Councilman Mark Photo by Joe Stivala Squilla and Nick Minnick of Local 98.
African Diaspora Launches Marketplace
BUSINESSES wishing to export to Africa can get grant funding from new marketplace financed by the US Agency for International Development, and spearheaded by Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and the City administration. At launching celebration were Kevin Dow, City deputy commerce director; Blackwell; and Stanley Slaughter, consultant for Bazilio & Associates. Photo by Joe Stivala
GlaxoSmithKline A Winner
PHILA.-BASED pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline receives National Corporation of the Year from PA-NJ-DE Minority Supplier Development Council at Loews Hotel. Worldwide company was honored for commitment to supplier diversity and growth of minority businesses. Pictured here are Wade Colclough, president PA-NJ-DE MSDC; Curtis Conner, COO, G & C Environmental Services Inc. group’s chair; Joset B. Wright, president NMSDC, Inc.; Jim Martin, VP, Commercial Procurement, GlaxoSmithKline; Yvette Dukes, global supplier diversity & development manager, GlaxoSmithKline; and George Council, VP, strategic sourcing, Allied Barton Security Services, group’s Board vice Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography chair.
New Year Without Guns?
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MOTHERS IN CHARGE, an organization of mothers whose children were murdered, worked with Phila. Police Dept. and a dozen civic groups to organize motorcade Friday afternoon, protesting against 2011’s death toll of 320. Before procession departed Broad & Master Streets, MIC members took turns reading, in choked voices, names of every one of this year’s victims.
8 FUNERAL DIRECTORS donated hearses to somber motorcade which wended its way through violence-wracked neighborhoods of city. Photo by Donald Terry
POLICE Commissioner Charles Ramsey, from left, Deputy Commissioner Steve Johnson and Commissioner’s driver Christopher Frazier march forward to address Mothers in Charge rally protesting dreadful murder toll in Phila in 2011.
Page 9 The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Our Opinion ... Looking For Change in 2012?
School Nurses Needed I was extremely concerned to learn more than 140 Philadelphia School District employees, including 47 school nurses, are being laid off. Layoffs have resulted in the number of school nurses being reduced by more than a third. The 367 schools in the Philadelphia School District now will be sharing fewer than 140 nurses. District officials are on record stating where they are aware of schools with “medically fragile” students, they will have nurses on duty five days a week. These assurances ring hollow to me. More than 37,000 children in Philadelphia suffer from pediatric asthma. These children are not able to schedule their asthma attacks on days when a nurse is in their school. I urge the School District to reconsider their decision and find a way to address their budget shortfall without jeopardizing the lives of our children. Deb Brown, President American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic
Who’s Entitled? I still marvel at our array of wannabe candidates for the office of President. It makes me wonder if any of them are in touch with reality. I also include the present holder of that office, as he will most likely be a candidate as well. None have a plan and no specifics.
They point fingers at one another and tell how the others are not qualified or their plan doesn’t hold water. Then we have the other guys who are trying with all their heart and soul to move us towards a socialistic republic. This in spite of the historical fact socialism fails miserably. Just ask those guys that lived in a socialist society. They learned the hard way. We need leadership, the kind that is not self-serving or obligated to large corporations, unions and other big-money contributors. We need leadership that will be unencumbered and willing to get our debt under control and wipe it out. We need leadership that will reduce the size of our government and return our people to taking care of themselves and their families not depending on our government to take care of them. Last but not least is Social Security. I hear the politicians referring to this as an entitlement. Since we have been paying SSI (Social Security Insurance) all of our working lives, this tells me they truly are totally ignorant. George Amendola Turks Dissent US House Resolution 306 recently passed implies Turkey destroys its Christian heritage, and urges the Turkish government to return some undefined properties to Christian reli-
gious institutions. The false allegations in HR 306 conflict with the reports by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom and by the European Union, both of which commend the freedom of religion in Turkey. During the past years, Turkey unilaterally restored several properties to Greek and Armenian religious congregations, including the Greek Orthodox Church at Buyukada, the Akhtamar Church in Van, the Holy Savior Cathedral in Ani, the Sumela Monastery and others. HR 306 contradicts not only the relevant US and international reports, but also our own Constitution. While the 1st Amendment prohibits any federal or state establishment from preference to any particular religion, HR 306 formulates a policy demanding privileged treatment for Christian faith in a foreign land. In the spirit of religious prejudice, the supporters of HR 306 never bothered to ask Armenia or Greece to similarly safeguard Muslim and Jewish heritage or to return confiscated mosques and synagogues on their territories. This legislation is driven by the Armenian American lobby, which relentlessly intimidates Congress to harm US relations with Turkey, an emerging economic power and a faithful NATO ally. Vechhi Acun
Mark Your Calendar
Jan. 10- State Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts town-hall meeting at Roxborough Mem. Hosp., Wolcoff Audit., 5800 Ridge Ave., 7 p.m. For info (215) 482-8726 or (215) 879-8533. Jan. 11- State Sen. Anthony Williams hosts Small Business Forum for businesses (under 100 employees), 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Univ. of Pennsylvania. Call (215) 492-2980 to RSVP. For info www.senatoranthonyhwilliams.com. Jan. 11- State Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts town-hall meeting at Union Fire Hall, 149 Montgomery Ave., Bala Cynwyd, Pa., 7 p.m. For info (215) 4828726 or (215) 879-8533. Jan. 12- State Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts town-hall meeting at Society Hall, Simpson Hse., 2101 Belmont Ave., 7 p.m. For info (215) 482-8726 or (215) 879-8533. Feb. 9- Steve Aldrich of IBEW Local 269 invites all to reception in honor of State Rep. Tina Davis at Bailey’s Bar & Grille, 6922 Bristol Emilie Road, Levittown, Pa.. Host $1,000, Patron $500, Friend. $250, Supporter, $50. RSVP Seth Skervsky (215) 550-1186. Apr. 26- 2012 Centennial Pk. Celebration honoring Joseph Manko, Ryan Howard and Vanguard at Phila. Horticultural Ctr., Montgomery Ave. & N. Horticultural Dr., 6 p.m. For tickets, etc. Arthur (215) 988-9341.
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The tone was set on Inauguration Day by the Mayor and the Sheriff and the other elected officials ... belt-tightening and forward movement. The Mayor warned of a continued need to find funding for the most necessary of City obligations. The Sheriff said he would brook no delays in getting the IT modernization needed to move his office into becoming a streamlined agency capable of handling the millions of dollars coming to his care. City Council President Darrell Clarke let it be known the Council will move to support the efforts of both. The City Commissioners, with new leadership, have realized the huge responsibilities their office handles all the long year, cresting at primary and general-election peaks. They won’t be moving to make any changes soon without first doing due diligence, since their civil-service cadre is highly respected around the Commonwealth. The Register of Wills, Ron Donatucci, has no major changes planned, since he sees continuing the same dedication of his employees that has earned his administration high praise through his years at the helm. All are in agreement: Continued economic belt-tightening is in order. What could be upsetting to a smooth course for this City and those offices in the coming year are the signs coming from Harrisburg which show a decline in anticipated revenue by the Governor. His first salvo to that effect was not allowing cost-of-living raises to be passed off to the thousands of employees under his aegis. As for homeowners and property investors in 2012, the one worry they all share is how much of an added tax burden will be the forthcoming new assessments. Last, but as worrisome, is the increase in wanton crime on the streets of Philadelphia. It’s time the new City Council begin to investigate why the Police Commissioner has not been able to get a handle on this crisis.
Letters • Letters • Letters
Page 10 The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Reich To Get Learned Hand Award
Abraham C. Reich
American Jewish Committee’s 2012 Judge Learned Hand Award will be presented to Abraham C. Reich, co-chair and partner at Fox Rothschild LLP. The award will be bestowed on Reich at the Rittenhouse Hotel on Jan. 25. The Judge Learned Hand Award was established in honor of the senior judge of the United States Court of Appeals
for the Second Circuit from 1924 to 1951. It is presented to legal leaders who demonstrate dedication to the spirit of civic activism. Past recipients have included former Philadelphia District Attorney Lynne Abraham, Gov. Ed Rendell, Tom Leonard and Joseph Jacovini, among many others. Said Mickey Simon, AJC president, “When you consider
his years of teaching, writing and lecturing on ethics and professional responsibility, along with his overall record of involvement and accomplishment, you can see why the award is so richly deserved.” Reich has spent his entire career in the Philadelphia office of Fox Rothschild. He is one of the leading litigation attorneys in Pennsylvania.
In addition to his practice, Reich also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Law. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Connecticut and received his law
degree from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law. A past Chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, Reich has represented the Philadelphia Bar for the past 15 years as a member of the House of Delegates of the American Bar Association. 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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debts, my client will have to pay a filing fee of $260 plus attorney’s fees to get his case reopened so that we can file his financial management certificate and he can receive his discharge. While reasonable people can debate the merits of requiring bankruptcy debtors to spend the time and money to take two financial-counseling courses – one must be completed prior to filing and the second after filing – it is clearly a waste of money to spend additional money because you did not get around to taking a $50 course that may take an hour or two of your time. I can tell you from what I see in my practice that my clients often forget about the financial-management course requirement despite a notice of this requirement in the filing confirmation notice they receive from the Clerk of Court and reminders from us. I also advise my clients to send me a copy of their course completion certificates directly. In theory, most financial-management course vendors will email me the certificate. One of the messages of the post-filing course is to take control of your financial future, and taking control of important decisions like this is a good start. Next Week’s Question: How do bankruptcy exemptions make the system work?
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clinically overweight or obese – and those numbers are constantly rising. One explanation, the AHA says, is that in recent years the average calorie consumption went up by 22% in women and 10% in men, with most of the increase coming from unhealthy foods and large portion sizes. “Millions of Americans are literally eating themselves into an early grave,” Nicolaou notes. “Combine this poor nutrition with a sedentary lifestyle, and you have a recipe for disaster.” In fact, AHA found 33% of adults don’t engage in physical activity at all, and many more fall short of the recommended minimum of 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
What can we do to defy these statistics and improve our cardiovascular health? “It’s really a no-brainer and certainly nothing that we haven’t heard before,” Nicolaou points out. “The answer is simple: better eating habits and a regular exercise program should be at the top of our New Year resolutions list.” For example: Do your heart a favor and cut out (or at least drastically reduce) saturated fats, sugar, too much salt, as well as refined foods from your diet. Instead, focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, as well as low-fat diary and lean protein. Make fitness an integral part of your daily life. The best way to make sure you stick with your exercise pro-
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gram is to find a physical activity that’s enjoyable and varied so it is fun rather than a chore. “If you are like most people, you probably commit to making these lifestyle
changes every year, but end up throwing in the towel pretty quickly,” Nicolaou says. “However, in 2012 make it your absolute priority to keep these resolutions – no matter what!”
The Family Court of the State of Delaware, In and For New Castle. Notice of Termination of Parental Rights Action. To: Unknown Father “Octavio”, From: Confidential Clerk of Family Court Adoptions from the Heart, Petitioner, has brought a civil action (Petition number 11-37421) against you to terminate your parental rights of your minor female child, born: 10/27/2011. A hearing has been scheduled at the Family Court, 500 N. King Street, Wilmington Delaware, on 1/27/2012 at 9:30 a.m. If you do not appear at the hearing, the Court may terminate your parental rights without your appearance. If you wish to be represented by an attorney in this matter but cannot afford one, you my be entitled to have the court appoint an attorney to represent you for free. For more information, please contact the confidential clerk at family court, (302) 255-0244. Superior Court of Arizona In Maricopa County - Case# JS 506837 In the matter of Jaylee Jenai Davis-Wallace. Notice of initial Hearing on petition for termination of parent-child relationship. Notice is hereby given that the petitioner Rena A. Wallace has filed a Petition for Termination of Parent-Child Relationship with the Juvenile Court in Maricopa County regarding the above named child or children and Rachanna Davis & John Doe. An initial hearing has been set to consider the petition on February 7, 2012 at 9:00 a. m. before Judge David K. Udall at the Maricopa County Court located at: Southeast Facility; 1810 S. Lewis Street; Mesa, AZ 85210. • You have a right to appear as a party in this proceeding. • Request for reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities must be made to the office of the Judge or commissioner assigned to the case, at least ten (10) days before your scheduled court date. • The failure of a parent to appear at the initial Hearing, the Pretrial Conference, the Status Conference or the Termination Adjudication Hearing may result in a court order terminating the parent-child relationship of that parent. • Failure to appear at the Initial Hearing, Pretrial Conference, Status Conference or Termination Adjudication Hearing, without good cause, may result in a finding that the parent, guardian or Indian custodian has waived legal rights and is deemed to have admitted the allegations in the Petition. • The hearings may go forward in the absence of the parent, guardian or Indian custodian and may result in the termination of parental rights based upon the record and evidence presented
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blood pressure levels. “Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in our country, these findings are certainly alarming,” says Phil Nicolaou, owner of Chester Co. Adventure Boot Camp in Kennett Square, Pa. Additionally, AHA reports that obesity continues to be the biggest contributor to the risk of heart disease, with 67% of American adults and nearly 32% of children
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
As 2011 is drawing to a close, one health-related fact emerges that should make us seriously think about lifestyle changes we ought to be making in the New Year. As American Heart Association reports in this month’s issue of its online journal, Circulation, 94% of US adults get a “poor” rating in heart-health factors, including weight, physical activity, diet, cholesterol, and
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NEW YEAR’S WISE WORDS: Find It In Your Heart To Get Healthy
Page 12 The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Some of the Mummery Fun On New Year’s Day
CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY, LEADING Duffy String Band, long led by late Henry with Maria Merlino and Ken Kunzig, Sr., which was first up Broad Street, are Carol Adams, headed String Bands as & Charles Crowe. they marched up Broad Street.
CLOWNS will always be clowns, but they didn’t get much of a chance having to start off on Washington Avenue, leaving admiring audiences behind VISTA provided by this Fancy Cape brought memories of old Mummers Parades of years past. them along S. Broad Street.
It’s A Goofy 7th Congressional Dist.
PETE CIARROCCHI, of Chickie’s & Pete’s, was among marchers in Clown division. Welcoming him along parade route was Tom Rhumba.
“SOMETIMES A COUNCILMAN, but always a Mummer!” Frank DiCicco tells Judge John Braxton on Councilman’s last day in office. DiCicco has been a member of Mummer Clown clubs since he was 12 years of age.
BEHIND the scenes is how viewers felt about parade as much of the magic of mummery was lost to those who KAREN BROWN joined Mummers along S. Broad Street. watched parade along Broad Street in S. Philly.
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Taking Care Of Men In Blue
“GOOFY KICKING DONALD DUCK” is winner in Washington Post’s “Name That District” contest. Challenge was to come up with best name for Republican Congressman Pat Meehan’s spectacularly gerrymandered new district in suburban S.E. Penna. and Dutch Country.
KAL RUDMAN, noted philanthropist/music legend, and Michael Chow, owner of Sang Kee Restaurant Group, returned to Lincoln Financial Field on New Year’s Day for 12th annual of feeding hot gourmet lunches to more than 100 police officers on duty at final Eagles game of season. In photo at right are Deputy Commissioner William Blackburn, Lt. Pat Quinn, Kal Rudman, Michael Chow, Delaware Valley Crime Commission President John Appeldorn and FOP Lodge 5 President John McNesby. Photos by Randex Communications
Duffy String Band starred President Charles Kochenskey and Congressman Bob Brady. Photo by Maria Merlino
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
FORMER Phillies star Larry Andersen, Congressman Bob Brady and Ken Adams give former star Councilman Frank JACK AMBROSE had stars in his eyes when he met star DiCicco a New Year’s Day salute. Photo by Maria Merlino Phillies pitcher, Larry Anderson Photo by Maria Merlino
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Mummers Parade 2012 Hits A Home Run
STARS of the show, without which parade would not exist, RISING political star Dan McCaffery enjoys Mummers Pa- are Mayor Michael Nutter, Congressman Bob Brady, RecreIN CENTER, star Police Chief Michael Chitwood, with An- rade with Bob Armstrong and Gary McCaffery. ation leader Susan Slawson and Deputy Mayor Michael DiBthony Paparo and wife Liz. Photo by Maria Merlino Photo by Maria Merlino Photo by Maria Merlino erardinis
Ringside With The Shadowboxer dream become a reality. Whether or not Jones wins the championship remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: The 28-year-old North Philadelphian got his title shot the old-fashioned way; he earned it! Best of luck, Mike. SHADOWBOXER and the rest of Philly’s boxing community will be rooting for you.
BROTHERSDanny and Ken Adams give a congratulatory hug to Mark Squilla, who went from Shooting Star to Council Rising Star. Photo by Maria Merlino
...top contender
Weccacoe Judges Unofficial Two Street Mummers Parade
FAMED BOXING Coach Percy Custis alerts Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell his fight card is set for night of Jan. 28 at 3801 Market Street. Blackwell is promoter of Philly boxing talent and fight fan. Listening is Karen Brown, potential legislative candidate. Fights are promoted by Schuler Gym at Photo by Joe Stivala Lancaster Avenue & Brooklyn Street.
Continuing a long-standing tradition, the Weccacoe Community Development Corp. sponsored a Mummer Judges stand for an un-official parade. Despite some light rain, mild temperatures drew large crowds to watch Mummers from all divisions drill in front of the Weccacoe Judges at 2nd & Ritner Streets. Taking top honors in the Comic division was the
Wild Rovers. Cara Liom took the top spot in the Wench division while the always-popular Quaker City won the String Band division. Ever impressive, the Jokers once again won the Fancy Brigade division. But it wasn’t just the large clubs that came down Two Street to get their chance to perform in front of the Weccacoe Judges. Long-time Mummers Chorus member Jimmy Ward
won the “Lone Mummer” award for his solo performance. All participants will be honored at a “Two Street Parade” awards ceremony in February. Special awards will also be presented that evening honoring Mummery overall. For additional information, please call Weccacoe Community Liaison Fred Druding, Jr. at (215) 2212374.
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North Philly’s Mike Jones will get a title fight in 2012. As the new year begins, 2012 looks to be looking good for one Philly boxer. Fresh off his big win over Argentina’s Sebastian Lujan at Madison Square Garden, Mike Jones will get a world title shot sometime in the year, possibly as early as Mar. 3 if contract terms can be reached between both parties. Jones retained his NABA and NABO titles with his unanimous decision win over Lujan, but more importantly, the bout served an IBF 147-lb. eliminator for the belt which was recently vacated by Andre Berto. Jones will now meet veteran and hard-punching Randall Bailey (42-7, 36 KOs) for the vacated championship. Trainer Vaughn Jackson believes his fighter has an excellent chance to bring the belt back to the City of Brotherly Love. Jones has been dreaming since he was kid about becoming a world champion, and now he is only one win away from seeing his life-long
Mike Jones in 2012?
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MAYOR Wilson Goode and Congressman Chaka Fattah congratulate Council President Darrell L. Clarke, and Council Members Maria Quiñones Sánchez and Denny O’Brien.
AMONG members of judiciary sworn in on Monday were Judges Angelo Foglietta, Charles Ehrlich, Vincent Johnson, Maria McLaughlin, Marvin Williams, Barbara McDermott and Carolyn Nichols.
ENJOYING pre-investiture breakfast gathering were Councilman Bill Greenlee and Council Majority Leader Curtis Jones, Jr.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
COUNCIL PRESIDENT AND SHERIFF Jewell Williams meet in Academy of Music ball room prior to swearing in SEVEN members of new City Council were captured here: from left, Maria Quiñones Sánchez, Jannie Blackwell, Bill ceremonies Monday, Jan. 2, 2012. Green, Curtis Jones, Jr., Bill Greenlee, President Darrell L. Clarke and Denny O’Brien.
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Inauguration
COMMISSIONER Al Schmidt and Councilman Bill Green discuss future of GOP City Committee among other political tidbits.
REGISTER of Wills Ron Donatucci, left, receives congratDRESSED to welcome Sheriff Jewell ulations from President Judge Pamela Dembe and Judge Williams were Sid Booker and Ducky Birts. Paul Panepinto. SHERIFF JEWELL WILLIAMS was seen here with his key deputies.
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FORMER Mayor John Street congratulates Register of Wills Ron Donatucci and Councilman Jim Kenney.
ON STAGE, minutes before taking oath of office, were Council Members Mark Squilla, Blondell Reynolds Brown, Cindy Bass, Wilson Goode, Jr., Curtis Thomas, Jr., Kenyatta Johnson and Bob Henon. (MORE PICS PAGE 27)
Page 26 The Public Record • January 5, 2012 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
On Monday, the winners of Philadelphia’s November municipal elections were sworn in at a gala event at the Academy of Music. The crowd was entertained by the Philadelphia Boys Choir, the Greater Exodus Baptist Church Choir and an operatic duet by PRISCILLA COBLENTZ and CLAUDE DONALDSON. Coblentz was the Republican leader of the 30th Ward. The oaths of office were administered by President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas PAMELA PRYOR DEMBE for all the elected officials and judges except for Register of Wills RONALD DONATUCCI, who was sworn-in by JUDGE MATTHEW CARRAFIELLO. MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER, the new President of City Council DARRELL CLARKE and its retiring President ANNA VERNA addressed the crowd. Clarke made one of the more-interesting comments of the day when he noted he had “high expectations” for the new Council. We inferred from this he expects the City Council to be effective. The herd is skeptical. Yes, there are six new Council Members, including hard-working DAVID OH and DENNY O’BRIEN, who authored numerous bills during his years in Harrisburg as a Representative from the 169th Dist. However, we are concerned Clarke, being a protégé of Nutter’s political advisor JOHN STREET, may not lead to a constructive relationship between the Mayor’s Office and City Council. The herd has high aspirations, but not high expectations for our City government to adequately address the issues facing the city over the next four years. Nutter during his speech stated he would not focus upon the successes of his first four years. This elephant is not sure what in his first four years he deems to have been a success, (Cont. Page 28)
I’d like to start this column out by saying Happy New Year 2012 to everyone. The city’s new officials have been sworn in and by the time you read this column, they will hopefully be working toward making Philadelphia a better place to live. Crime was something we heard about a lot in 2011. To be specific, we heard a lot about pedophilia, with one of the biggest incidents happening here in Pennsylvania. And it is with this that we begin the second half of our look at 2011: The Year That Couldn’t End Fast Enough. If we don’t know about any other African proverb, we know it takes a village to raise a child. What this means is the only way we can produce good, well-rounded kids is if everyone who touches the lives of these children does all he or she can to make sure they have what they need, their lives are okay, and they’re safe and whole. But in 2011, we learned not everyone in the village should be allowed near our children. From the peccadilloes of Atlanta Bishop Eddie Long, who rose to prominence speaking out against same-sex marriage and hosting Republican leaders, but wound up losing his church, the church’s school, and his wife due to his alleged trysts with the young men he was supposed to be mentoring, to the now-infamous Penn State sex-abuse scandal that brought down a nonprofit foundation and cost everyone from football legend Joe Paterno to university President Graham Spanier their jobs, to the bombshell dropped toward the end of the year of child sexual-abuse allegations against former Daily News Hall-Of-Fame sports columnist (Cont. Page 28)
Yo! Here we go again with this touching story sent to me by Ronnie M. A nurse took the tired, anxious serviceman to the bedside. “Your son is here,” she said to the old man. She had to repeat the words several times before the patient’s eyes opened. Heavily sedated because of the pain of his heart attack, he dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man’s limp ones, squeezing a message of love and encouragement. The nurse brought a chair so the Marine could sit beside the bed. All through the night, the young Marine sat there in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man’s hand and offering him words of love and strength. Occasionally, the nurse suggested the Marine move away and rest awhile. He refused. Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was oblivious of her and of the night noises of the hospital – the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night staff members exchanging greetings, the cries and moans of the other patients. Now and then she heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing, only held tightly to his son all through the night. Along towards dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now-lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited. Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her. “Who was that man?” he asked. The nurse was startled. “He was your father,” she answered. “No, he wasn’t,” the Marine replied. “I never saw him before in my life.” “Then why didn’t you say something when I took you to him?” “Well, I knew right away there had been a mistake, but I also knew he needed his son, and his son just wasn’t here. When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed. “I came here tonight to find a Mr. William Grey. His son was killed in Iraq today, and I was sent to inform him. What was this gentleman’s name? The nurse, with tears in her eyes, answered, “Mr. William Grey.” So the next time someone needs you – just be there for them – and yourself.
DEAR JUSTICE CASTILLE: After you recovered in the Philly Naval Hospital as a wounded war vet, you decided to run for office. You told us of your service as “Officer of Marines.” This was as powerful a line as the Marine Hymn included the need for the USMC to keep their honor clean. We voters accepted you – a lad from the Louisiana Cajun bayous. Years have passed, and your investigation of Traffic Court seems less than honorable to me. It arrives just after the courthouse fiasco, and makes some folks wonder if the Traffic Court business distracts from the courthouse issue. Your appointment of a former “FED” and Judge to look into the issue does not sound objective at all. We all know where this form of hunt has led in the past: An eye-opening report; the hiring of an Ethics Officer at, say, $100,000 a year. And from out of town, maybe (thus lacking local perspective). When Judge Glazer ran for office, I supported him. Ten years later, I met him at Democrat City Committee – when it was time for his retention reelection. My old poli-sci professor at Penn opened the first class with “Politics is the resolution of conflict.” He said that was all we needed to know from the course. He said we all, every day, make political decisions. And “REFORM” is replacing one form of politics with another (usually more costly to the taxpayer). The sad thing is the employees of Traffic Court are placed under a cloud at Christmastime – punishment of the many – without evidence. I say all this as a Police Chief’s Association Life Member, whose membership has included special agents in charge. You once joked of shooting breakfast in the bayou, when a deer passed the (Cont. Page 28)
Best wishes from City Hall Sam to all for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! The New Year brings swearing-in ceremonies for local elected officials who will be tackling some new and old issues facing Philly. MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER was sworn in for his second term on Monday. His second term priorities will be fighting crime and reforming education – two worthy issues that may be impacted by a third … the budget. Philadelphia may face another budget deficit this year. After raising the sales tax by 1% and raising property taxes by over 10%, where will Mayor Nutter propose City Council and he find additional revenue? Stay tuned…. Major changes are coming to Philadelphia City Council. First, Council has a new leadership team. COUNCILMAN DARRELL CLARKE is the President, COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR. is the Majority Leader, and COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN was elected as the Majority Whip. We need to watch how the new team performs and interacts with the Mayor. The Mayor has indicated his priorities are crime and education. President Clarke has mentioned the pension fund as a priority. Perhaps all, some, or none of these issues will get addressed. We’ll have to wait and see what type of relationship the Mayor builds with City Council due to the second major change on City Council: It has six new Members. It is the largest City Council freshman class in 20 years. Newcomers are District COUNCIL MEMBERS CINDY BASS, BOBBY HENON, KENYATTA JOHNSON and MARK SQUILLA and COUNCIL AT-LARGE MEMBERS DENNY O’BRIEN and DAVID OH. Sam is waiting to see how the Mayor builds relations with these new Members and if these relations can be used for the Mayor to achieve his goals on tough issues such as property reassessments and pensions. The two new Council at-Large Members Nutter will court are O’Brien and Oh. These two Republicans will join Republican Minority Leader and 32-year Council veteran BRIAN O’NEILL on City Council. Oh was elected as the Minority Whip, which was news to former State Rep and Speaker of the House O’Brien. With or without a title, O’Brien has a reputation for being a hard-working political veteran who will work across party lines to get things done. He does not need a title and besides, CHS and many others still call him “Speaker.” City row officers were also sworn into their respective offices this week. Industrious RON (Cont. Page 28)
Page 27
Inauguration
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
BIDDING former House member, now ENDING 36 years on City Council, 12 as first female president of that body, is Ann Verna, seated left. With her is Ann COUNCILMAN David Oh is Councilman Denny O’Brien good wishes in REGISTER of Wills Ron Donatucci welKelly and behind her, key staffers, Mary Ann Mahoney and congratulated by Congress- his new job is old colleague Jim Roebuck. comes City Commission Chair Stephanie Photo by Bonnie Squires Photo by Bonnie Squires Singer to City Hall. woman Allyson Schwartz. Jerry Davis.
RABBI Solomon Isaackson FLANKED by Mayor Wilson Goode and Congressman Chaka Fattah are FORMER Mayor Bill Green enjoys enjoys trading tidbits with JUDGE Charles Ehrlich congratulated by Council President Darrell Clarke and Council Members Maria Quiñones chat with Council President Darrell Councilwoman Jannie BlackPhoto by Joe Stivala Sánchez and Denny O’Brien. his sons. Photo by Bonnie Squires Clarke. Photo by Bonnie Squires well. Photo by Bonnie Squires
NEW and retention judges were sworn in on Academy stage.
Photos by Joe Stivala
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6TH DIST. Councilman Bob SHARING moment were ConCITY COMMISSIONERS Anthony Clark, Al Schmidt and Henon is sworn in at Academy gressman Chaka Fattah and WAITING TO be sworn in are 1st and 8th Dist. Council Chair Stephanie Singer were among City officials sworn in of Music. Councilman Jim Kenney. Photo by Joe Stivala Members Mark Squilla and Cindy Bass. Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala at Inauguration ceremonies. Photo by Joe Stivala
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Page 28
Walk The Beat (Cont. From Page 26) kitchen window. Over my 24 years wearing the uniform of our country, I have always heard the story of the quick draw resulting in shooting oneself in the foot. FIREWORKS LIKE YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN!! That was New Year’s Eve at Penn’s Landing. SugarHouse casino and other were the sponsors. A vast SEA OF HUMANITY filled Penn’s Landing, and you heard constant cheering. Thanks to Tom Corcoran, Riverfront Development Corp. chief; Laurie Heinerichs, and Monica Forkin Santoro for a great job!... THE THOUSANDS OF ATTENDEES IS what Penn’s Landing is all about – “A place for people to gather” – as described early on by Penn Praxis. This is evidenced by the many ethnic festivals, movies under the stars, music events, ice skating, ship visits, etc. held there. The latest riverfront plan shows P.L. as a SEA OF CONDOS. This is building for the ONE PERCENT –not for people. DRIVING NORTH ON COLUMBUS Boulevard from Dock Street, it is a long way before you can make a left turn at Spring Garden. It could easily be resolved by making Callowhill Street two ways to 2nd Street. What’s up, Rina Cutler?... BIGGEST QUESTION in politics is “Who are Jimmy MOORE’S backers?” Who is contributing to or has encouraged him to run against Bob Brady for Congress? The MOORE website is expensive-looking.
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City Hall Sam (Cont. From Page 26) DONATUCCI was sworn in for his eighth term as Register of Wills. Former STATE REP. JEWELL WILLIAMS was sworn in as the new Philadelphia Sheriff. New City COMMISSIONERS STEPHANIE SINGER and AL SCHMIDT will join the reelected ANTHONY CLARK on the three-member Board of City Commissioners. Many of these candidates talked about reform and it will be interesting to see how far they push their agendas.
Time to check the contributor list? GOV. CHRIS CHRISTIE – there he goes again – in Iowa showboating for Romney. Admit it: You want to run for Vice President. Is this showing loyalty to New Jersey citizens who elected him to serve a full term?... MUCH TALK is about Kenyatta Johnson’s replacement as State Representative. But a quiet undercurrent wonders if Anna Verna will stay on as 36th Ward Leader. In recent years, approximately 10 committeepersons have passed away. Replen-
Out & About (Cont. From Page 26) Bill Conlin, we found out kids aren’t all right around everyone. In November, the Penn State football world came crashing down, thanks to a grand-jury report detailing allegations of sexual abuse against Jerry Sandusky, a former defensive coach for the Nittany Lions. Sandusky had allegedly sexually abused eight boys, and some of that abuse had occurred in the showers of the PSU football locker room, on road trips to bowl games, and in other places where someone in the hierarchy should have said, “Something isn’t right here.” As more layers were peeled from the rotten onion that is the Sandusky case, Paterno went under the magnifying glass. The board of trustees of Penn State fired Paterno, which led to a riot that ended with an overturned news truck, arrests, and the perception Joe Paterno and company were more imporGood luck to URI MONSON, the Philadelphia Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority’s Executive Director. Uri is leaving PICA and taking his talents to Montgomery Co. to serve as Montco’s Chief Financial Officer. Uri is the municipal budget expert for PICA, which is the financial watchdog and fiscal moderator for the City of Philadelphia’s budgets. He’ll oversee budgeting and finance for the Democratic Majority Co. COMMISSIONERS JOSH SHAPIRO and LESLIE RICHARDS, and Republican COMMISSIONER BRUCE CASTOR.
ishment is needed. KAREN BROWN’S car is repainted. During her mayoral run, it got hit with acid four times. Her posters were defaced as well..... MURDER CAPITAL is a title for Philly? Mayor NUTTER did not resolve this issue in his first term. KYW Radio talks of a report where the country shows a 9% job gain with Philly minus 2%. And it takes too long to start a business here – 12 weeks for paperwork allowing you to hang a sign? Let Managing Director RICH NEGRIN resolve this. tant to some louts than the eight ruined young lives at the center of the case. Sandusky has since gone on a media tour in an attempt to clear his name. Aided and abetted by his legal beagle, Joseph Amendola, he’s given the prosecution the kind of ammunition prosecutors dream of. Google Jerry Sandusky+Bob Costas and you’ll see what I mean. In early December, the Philadelphia Inquirer ran a story alleging Bill Conlin, the longtime sports columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News, had abused several kids, including a couple of relatives. While Conlin isn’t looking at jail time due to the statute of limitations on abuse cases in New Jersey at the time the incidents occurred, the folks making the allegations, including one niece who happens to be an Atlantic Co. prosecutor, are pretty credible. Thus, he hired a good
Elephant Corner (Cont. From Page 26) but that’s a discussion for another time. He did seem to identify the some of the problems facing the city, including the lack of jobs and our poor schools, but was weak on the causes. He focused on the lack of adequately educated citizens as the reason businesses are not locating here. While it is true our children who graduate from public schools are lawyer, George Bochetto, to try and salvage his reputation. Good luck with that. If you’re looking for a word that means “what happens when people manage to fail Political Science 101 and Economics 101 at the same time”, we learned a new word in 2011. That word: “occupy”. As one of the 99% of folks in this country who don’t have a spare million dollars in her pocket, I was glad to see people get mad enough to take to the streets, pitch tents in public areas, and demand to be heard. But critics of the Occupy movement, most of them ignorant of the Constitution or just plain ignorant, complained it didn’t have a clear message and said things like, “Go get a job!” Gee, if only the Republicans in Congress would take time out of their schedule to actually address joblessness!
frequently ill equipped to enter the workforce, he conveniently failed to discuss our tax structure that has chased businesses from the city for the past 30 years. He campaigned four years ago on the need to reduce taxes to attract businesses, yet increased taxes during his first term. Nutter indicated the City’s financial problems were a result of the weak economy. But the recession only exacerbated existing problems of inefficient City agencies and underfunded pension plans. This elephant does not expect City Council to be any If the folks in the Occupy movement had jobs, or could get jobs that paid ’em a living wage, they wouldn’t have taken to the streets. And they definitely wouldn’t have put themselves in the path of pepper spray and police batons like they did in Oakland and New York. To his credit, Mayor Michael Nutter kept Philly off of that list. When he told Occupy Philadelphia to leave City Hall, it didn’t get bloody. It got ugly, to be sure, but it didn’t end up on “World News Tonight”. That’s because Nutter got the Occupy message: People are hurting. Most painfully for me last year, this former child lost my mom, Ollie Louise Clay. But she would want me to focus more on what I have to look forward to in 2012 than on what I’ve lost. On to next week and to this year, then, for all of us.
better on cost containment. It is rumored new Council President Clarke stated the consolidation of government agencies is code for layoffs. Mr. President, it is not “code”; it is what we should be doing if we have duplicative and contradictory services. This view, that publicsector jobs are ends in and of themselves and not jobs to be filled in order to offer necessary municipal services, is one of the core problems of our City government. Yet this view of public service was echoed in Verna’s speech. She talked of her time in Council and that of current Council Members as their “careers”. She actually referred to being a Council Member as a “profession.” But COUNCILMEN BILL GREEN and Oh (for example) are by “profession” attorneys. They don’t have to be career Members of Council. While this year we have seen the most turnover in Council membership in a long time, we need to see this more often. This elephant believes there is an entrenched bureaucratic mentality among elected officials that rules out their making the decisions we need to make our government services more cost-effective. This would include layoffs, as well as forcing our municipal unions to contribute more to their pensions and health plans as is done by taxpayers in the private sector.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
COUNCILWOMAN Marian Tasco, 3rd from left, found herself with CONGRATULATING Majority Leader Curtis Jones, Jr., center, at City Hall reception were, from left, Ward bevy of well-known supporters. Photo by Joe Stivala Leaders Bob Dellavella and John O’Connell, Judge Joe Waters, and Joe Russo. Photo by Joe Stivala
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Inauguration
WARD LEADERS Bernadette Wyche and John CONGRATULATING Council President Darrell Clarke, 2nd O’Connell were among from right, were Judge Dennis Cohen, Controller Alan many attending inaugural AT CITY HALL were the Cohens, COUNCILMAN Bill Greenlee poses with two of his Butkovitz, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, Judge Angelo Fogli- celebrations in City Hall. Rep. Mark and sister Sherrie, Judge favorite leaders. Photo by Joe Stivala etta and Councilman Bill Greenlee. Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala Dennis and son.
JUDGE Angelo Foglietta hugs his mother Lorraine at City Hall reception. Photo by Joe Stivala.
ABOUT to enter Academy of Music for swearing in ceremonies were Dan Pellicciotti and Michael McAllister.
LDC LEADER Sam Staten, Jr., congratulates Councilwoman COUNCIL members Cindy Bass and Curtis Cindy Bass at City Hall ENJOYING festivities were Councilwoman Blondell Jones, Jr., surrounded by family and support- reception. Photo by Reynolds Brown, her daughter Brielle, and Councilers. Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Martin Regusters, Leap- women Jannie Blackwell and Cindy Bass. Photography. Photo by Bonnie Squires ing Lion Photography.
SHARING moment at swearing in ceremonies were State Rep. Jim Roebuck, Laborers’ Ken Washington and Frank Snyder. Photo by Bonnie Squires
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REV. Terrence Griffith, center, congratulates Commissioner Al Schmidt and Councilman David Oh at Academy SEEN IN Academy of Music lobby were Ed McBride, Pat Photo by Bonnie Squires Gillespie and John Paone. breakfast.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Inauguration 2012
NEW SHERIFF in town! Sheriff Jewell NEW COUNCIL QUORUM? Ask Mark Squilla, Blondell Reynolds Williams is congratulated by labor leader Sam Brown, Cindy Bass, Wilson Goode, Jr., Curtis Jones, Bob Henon, Bill Green and Maria Quiñones Sánchez. Photos by McGlasson Photography Staten, Jr.
WOMEN WITH MOXIE! Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown is flanked by some moxie women during post-inauguration party inside her City Council office.
COUNCILWOMAN Maria Quiñones COUNCIL PRESIDENT Darrell Clarke receives Sánchez is congratulated by State Sen. An1ST DIST. COUNCILMAN Mark Squilla applause from Anna Verna as his daughter and gets a welcome handshake from Majority thony Williams as President Judge Pamela COUNCIL PRESIDENT Darrell Clarke former boss Mayor Street look on. Dembe looks on. Leader Curtis Jones, Jr. and Councilman Jim Kenney share a laugh at pre-inauguration affair.
COUNCILMAN at Large David Oh is flanked by staff and supporters: Stewart Graham, Glenn & Julie and Donald Tippett.
FORMER MAYORS Bill Green III and John Street join Councilman Bill Green IV.
THE NUTTERS: Mayor Michael, First Lady Lisa and daughter Olivia.
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COUNCILMAN WILSON Goode Jr. is joined by 2nd Dist. Councilman Kenyatta NICE NEW DIGS for City Councilman at Large Bill Greenlee and his staff, who have moved to the 5th floor of City Hall. Johnson at pre-inauguration ceremony.
COUNCILWOMAN Marian Tasco invites Judge Marjorie McKeown and PPA Executive Director Vincent Fenerty.
Tartaglione Blasts Marcellus Inaction State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Kensington) continues to battle Marcellus Shale inaction in the Senate. “The cynical and arbitrary actions of the majority on the floor of the Senate have only served to feed the growing public outrage over the influence of corporations on those who are elected to serve people,” she said. “The weight of wealthy energy companies on the regulation of Marcellus Shale drilling has led to the collapse of Senate protocol by denying members the right to cast votes. In the end, democracy broke. The implications will be long lasting for our environment, our communities, our taxpayers and our faith in a thorough and fair process of government.”
Sen. Washington Reports On McDonald Scholarships, State Sen. LeAnna Washington (D-Northwest) reports applications are now available for the 2011-2012 Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) four scholarship programs. All scholarships offered in the Greater Philadelphia Region are as follows: RMHC® Scholars for high school seniors of all back-
Keller Approves UC Debt Bill
House lawmakers approved legislation that would give Pennsylvania more flexibility to issue bonds in order to pay back the billions of dollars it owes to the federal government in unemployment compensation debt, according to State Rep. Bill Keller (D-S. Phila.). Keller, Democrat chairman of the House Labor & Indus-
of the university’s modern theater-arts facility in 1996, the year of her retirement.
Reps. Brendan, Kevin On Fox Chase Pact State Reps. Brendan and Kevin Boyle (both D-Northeast) have publicly applauded the agreement signed between Temple University Health System and Fox Chase Cancer Center. “Fox Chase Cancer Center is a world-renowned facility that has been an asset to the Fox Chase community,” said Brendan Boyle. “I hope this affiliation marks a new and innovative direction in cancer research and treatment in Philadelphia.” “Fox Chase Cancer Center has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. Its existence not only helps fight cancer but serves as an engine (Cont. Page 32)
Two Rep. Waters Resolutions OKed The State House adopted two resolutions sponsored by State Rep. Ronald G. Waters (D-W. Phila.) to honor two outstanding Pennsylvanians who passed away this year. Legendary Philadelphia boxer Joe Frazier, an Olympic and heavyweight champion, passed away in November. He is ranked among the top heavyweight fighters of all time. Waters’ resolution noted that, after retiring from the ring in 1981, Frazier passed
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State Rep. Louise Williams Bishop (D-W. Phila.) has introduced legislation to provide additional safeguards for victims of sexual abuse. Bishop said her legislation (HB 2058) would lift the current statute of limitations on criminal prosecutions and civil lawsuits against people who commit sex crimes against children in Pennsylvania. Bishop is Democratic chairwoman of the House Children and Youth Committee and, in past legislative sessions, has introduced similar legislation to protect young victims of sexual abuse. Bishop’s legislation would change Pennsylvania law that prohibits people from pursuing criminal charges or civil lawsuits after age 30 or 50, respectively, against someone who allegedly committed a sex crime against them when they were a child. “I believe it is critical that we provide support to victims of child molestation and sexual abuse,” Bishop said. “We need to protect the rights of young victims of sex abuse not only while they are children, but also when they grow into adults.” Bishop said there are many reasons why young children do not report these crimes, or cannot deal with them, for many years. “Cutting off the ability of victims to pursue criminal prosecution or civil action against their attackers after a certain age is unfair and al-
his experience and knowledge on as a mentor and trainer to new generations of boxers in his adopted hometown. The second Waters resolution saluted the legacy of Cheney University educator Edythe Scott Bagley. A valedictorian of the class of 1943 at Lincoln HS in Philadelphia, Bagley found the challenges of higher education to be so stimulating she persuaded her younger sister, Coretta, to attend college. Coretta would later be known as Coretta Scott King, wife of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Bagley was especially dedicated to promoting performing arts, including the AfricanAmerican theater and fine arts, engaging students to take part in modern and classical literature productions. After developing a theaterarts major at Cheney University, Bagley’s work culminated in the construction
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Bishop Bill Aids Sex-Abuse Victims
lows many criminals to go unpunished.” “I don’t want this suffering to affect another generation of children, because many adults who were abused as children still carry the torment and suffering caused by these assaults,” Bishop said. “I believe predators may be deterred from committing these heinous crimes if they know that justice may one day be brought upon them.” Bishop also introduced legislation (HB 2057) that amends the right-to-bail law to exclude individuals who have been charged with capital offenses for which the maximum sentence is life imprisonment or for sexual abuse of children.
try Committee, said Pennsylvania’s Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund has borrowed $3.8 billion from the federal government since 2009 in order to pay unemployment compensation benefits to the hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians who lost their jobs as a result of the recession. The federal government required the State to start repaying the borrowed money beginning in January, which triggered an interest tax on employers to help make those payments. The bill (SB 1310) would allow the State to seek up to $4.5 billion in bonds to repay federal loans through the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority. It also would establish a 90-day amnesty program for unpaid contributions by employers and overpayments to claimants, as well as give the state greater flexibility within the UC Fund to pay debt service on the bonds.
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(Cont. From Page 4) gomery Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, Pa.; and Thursday, Jan. 12, Society Hall, Simpson House, 2101 Belmont Avenue. “I want to hear what concerns you and your family have so I can make your voice heard at the State Capitol,” said DeLissio. Everyone is welcome at the town-hall meetings, including children. For more information, call DeLissio’s local office at (215) 482-8726 or (215) 879-8533.
grounds; RMHC®/African American Future Achievers for African American high school seniors; RMHC®/Hispanic American Commitment to Education Resources (HACER®) for Latino highschool seniors; and RMHC®/Asian Students Increasing Achievement (ASIA) for Asian-Pacific high-school seniors. In 2012, the RMHC Scholars, RMHC/African American Future Achievers and RMHC/HACER programs will each offer 15 scholarships: two (2) at $5,000 and thirteen (13) at $1,000. The RMHC/ASIA program will offer one (1) $5,000 and nine (9) $1,000 scholarships. To view all program applications, please visit http://rmhc.org/what-wedo/rmhc-u-s-scholarships/ or see the scholarship application. All college-bound highschool seniors in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey and Delaware are eligible to receive an RMHC scholarship and the deadline is Jan. 27, 2012.
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
Page 32
Tartaglione Collected Toys For Tots At District Offices
(Cont. From Page 31) of economic growth and jobs in the Fox Chase/Rockledge area,” added Kevin Boyle.
Washington Bill Sets Up Children’s Ombudsman State Sen. LeAnna Washington has introduced legislation to create a Children’s Ombudsman in Pennsylvania. The ombudsman would
be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The ombudsman, she stated, “would be tasked to process and investigate complaints, pursue legislative advocacy and make recommendations to the governor and the General Assembly concerning issues affecting the welfare of children.”
State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione hosted a very successful “Toys for Tots” collection box in each of her two district offices. “All through the recession years, the community has shown its generosity and good will during the holidays,” Tartaglione said. The mission of the US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts
to needy children in the community. Since the program started more than 60 years ago, nearly 400 million toys have been collected and distributed to millions of needy children at Christmas. “Many of those who donate were once recipients of Toys for Tots,” Tartaglione said. “Giving back has become a tradition.”
Senators Measure School Turnaround State Sens. Vincent J. Hughes and Christine
Tartaglione toured Stetson MS recently to get a firsthand look at the school’s remarkable turnaround. “It was an honor to meet with the faculty, students, and parents of this promising school. Stetson MS is a successful model of education reform,” Hughes said. “After years of underachievement, Stetson is now a school with a promising academic future for all students.” Stetson, which has a largely Hispanic student body, was one of Philadelphia’s lowest-performing schools, until it was taken over by Aspira of Pennsylvania, a Hispanic advocacy group. Since the takeover, the school has produced academic gains, while reducing violence and disruptive behavior. “In a changing world economy, education becomes more valuable every day,” Tartaglione said. “The suc-
cess at Stetson proves that with parents, teachers, and administrators working together to help students the future can be bright for any student who wants to achieve.” Hughes was instrumental, along with Success Schools COO Robert Lysek, in securing 50 iPads for Stetson students and 10 for teachers and administrators. The students use the iPads for remedial math and writing support. Teachers use them to support and facilitate the lessons. During the tour, Hughes and Tartaglione were updated by student leaders on how Stetson was turned around through targeted education reforms. Many once-disruptive students are now classroom leaders, excelling both academically and socially. The school has seen gains in PSSA scores as well.
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At Broadcast Pioneers
BROADCAST PIONEERS hosted several prominent media personalities who have just published books. Seen at Golf Club luncheon, from left, were sportscaster and author Al Meltzer; Bill Baldini, former TV newsman; and, standing, DJ/ author Jerry Blavat, talking with Steve Harvey. In audience were legends Kal Rudman, Jane “Pixanne” Norman, Joe Pellegrino, Dorie Lenz, Jean Arnold and Liz Starr (now Liz Matt). Photo by Bonnie Squires
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Noise makes money. Money's the reason for noise. Money's more important than noise. Money trumps noise. Money is why people do anything. Money, money. . .money! MONEY!!! --Rocco Santarelli, (c) 2011
you, kid.”) There’s an indoor courtyard framed by three-dimensional facades of houses and balconies, stucco walls, thatched roofs, stained glass, wrought iron, salvaged doors, arched entranceways constructed from vintage materials and a ceiling of skylights and fans. During our most-recent visit, several dishes we adored were the crispy, tangy spring roll of chorizo and shrimp ($6), earthy, traditional black bean soup ($7.50), passionon-a-plate mahi-mahi filet with silky lobster-flavored black rice and squid ($22.50) and sensuous caramel and mango ice cream ($6). More information at (215) 567-7683 or www.cubalibrerestaurant.com • Alisa Consorto is the owner/chef of Umbria, a charming thimble-sized storefront at 7131 Germantown Avenue, which has survived for 22 years against overwhelming odds and is still the only Mt. Airy BYOB creating an upscale dining experience. During our most recent dinner at Umbria, our dishes could have made a foodie’s heart glow in the dark. A spinach salad sparkled with nuggets of goat cheese and crunchy candied walnuts and was dressed with an orange vinaigrette that was so seductive, Alisa should sell it in quart bottles ($9.50). A filet of salmon special absolutely oozed with sweetness, amplified by a judicious bite of Dijon mustard and an affectionate brush of horseradish glaze ($21). And I tell you most ‘sincereously’ that a sublime roasted haddock entree with roasted garlic and red peppers would satisfy the most discerning dinerati ($23). Dessert lovers could have a
The Public Record • January 5, 2012
by Len Lear Continuing the list of our best restaurant experiences of 2011: • In late August of this year, Georges Perrier transformed Le Bar Lyonnais, for three decades a more-casual alternative to the opulent Le Bec Fin upstairs at 1523 Walnut St., into Tryst (a meeting, often clandestine, of lovers). The bar area now has contemporary leather banquettes and small black-topped tables behind a wavy wall sculpture. Drink prices are serious at Tryst ($13 for cocktails, but there are some good wine selections for less than $10 a glass). If you do get a cocktail, try the Delicious Sour, sheer peach heaven. Food prices are quite reasonable, between $5 and $21. Dishes that completely blew us away were classic escargots with hazelnut and garlic butter
($16), a wig of moist, soft tagliatelle with dried chile and Italian cheeses ($12), toothsome mushroom ravioli draped with a subtle ivory sauce ($13) and sublime Burgundy short ribs ($17). With the top-of-the-line food, drinks and staff at Tryst, it has turned into one of the hottest bars in the city. When we arrived at 7:20, the place was less than half-full, but by 9 p.m., it was so packed, one of us almost had to inhale while the other exhaled. More information at (215) 567-1000 or http://trystlebar.com/. • Currently celebrating its 10th anniversary at 10 S. 2nd Street in Old City, Cuba Libre is one of the most spectacularlooking restaurants in the Delaware Valley. The prodigious two-level dining room resembles a movie set from the film noir period. (You can just imagine Humphrey Bogart at the next table whispering to Lauren Bacall, “Here’s to
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The best restaurants of 2011, part two
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The Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Congrats South Philly Vikings
y p p a H r a e Y New
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Honda 1988 GL 1500 Motorbike for give away to responsible person due to my son sudden death. If interested contact:
Jane.gank2009@yahoo.com
Wanted
K & A Auto Salvage Inc.
Late Model Cars & Trucks in need of repair. Up to $5,000. in cash. Same day pick-up
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 is located @ K&A Auto salvage Inc. 2160 E Somerset On January 9, 2012 at 8:00 AM
215-605-4429 "Also Highest Prices Paid for Junk Cars"
The South Philadelphia Public Record • January 5, 2012
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Public Record Classifieds: small ADS BIG Deals
AVC
Make
892938 Suzuki
Year 2008
VIN KL5JD86Z88K798086
BARRY FISHER
Drivers:
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