FOR CARS W/BAD ENGINES OR TRANS. $450 CASH PAID FOR ANY COMPLETE JUNK CAR.
Law Suits • Mortgage Forclosures Medical Bills • Collection Agencies Auto Repossessions • Harassment
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19114 215-698-7000 JStevenson@ChapmanAutoGroup.com
Vol. XIV. No. 22 (Issue 644)
LOW COST! PAYMENT PLANS
Free Consultation
Call: Sadek Law Offices, LLC Center City 1315 Walnut St. #804
Northeast Phila 2375 Woodward St. #105
Jewelers
700 Sansom St. 215-923-1980
www.PanepintoJewelers.com We Buy Gold & Diamonds
215-669-1000
215-545-0008 www.sadeklaw.com Debt relief. We help people file bankruptcy
“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record” www.PhillyRecord.com
City GOP Begin A Civil War
Panepinto
UP TO $1000 CASH
Real Help From Real Attorneys
Value 50¢
May 31, 2012
Serving Citywide Political, Labor, Legal and School Communities of Philadelphia
Teeing Off For Charity
PHILA.’s Republican City Committee incumbents flexed their muscles as many ward leaders joined Republican Counsel Michael Meehan at State Rep. John Taylor’s fundraiser at Quaker City Yacht Club, same evening as State Committee-sponsored Republicans held an organizational meeting claiming they voted in a new RCC chair to fill office once held by Vito Civil War coverage and more pics, pages 5 and 13 Canuso.
CONVENING to elect new “official” Republican City Committee were 20 ward leaders including Kevin Kelly, Peter Wirs and Philip Innamorato seen above. They attended meeting at St. Michael’s Church in Northern Liberties the same evening as State Rep. John Taylor fundraiser.
All For The Kids SAM STATEN, JR. 13th Annual Golf classic drew record crowd despite heat wave at Spring Hill Country Tuesday. Daniel "Tiger" Woodall, business manager Laborers District Council 135, shows his prowess at …MEANWHILE, inaugurating trail-blazing new partnership putting green as Roc Irey, THRILLED to show neighborhood kids a good time and a of playing field shared by Ramp Playground and Father Marcus Hall and Sam Staten tasty bite at Shepard Recreation Center in Haddington was Judge HS in Mayfair is Councilman Bob Henon and posse of Sr. look on. More pictures Photo by John Hunt Page 15. State Rep. Louise Williams Bishop, who organized affair… eager young spellers.
SEPTA 4th Stop Hunger Drive For Two Weeks!
INJURED AT WORK! If you have been injured on the job site, work site, waterfront doing loading or repairing work. You need our free advice....We fight for your right to benefits and we never ask you to pay a fee.... We have successfully helped get money for thousands of injured workers over ALSO OFFICES IN PHILADLEPHIA, the last 30 years. MEDIA, LANCASTER
www.disabledatwork.com Do you want your claim settled for Maximum Value? Are you being bullied by your employer and need the real facts about your rights?
Page 2 The Public Record • May 31, 2012 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Official Opposition Grows Daily To Mayor’s Property Tax by Tony West An unprecedented coalition of elected officials has formed a phalanx, sworn to halt Mayor Michael Nutter’s proposal to work a hefty hike in propertytax revenues by changing the method of assessment, even before its new property-value calculations are known. The first solid wave came through two weeks ago when State Sen. Larry Farnese (D-S. Phila.) was joined at his office by Pennsylvania Senators and Representatives from Philadelphia, members of Philadelphia’s City Council and community activists. Jointly they called upon Mayor Nutter to implement a fair property-assessment program and to explore better funding alternatives for the School District of Philadelphia. They vowed to press ahead on legal moves in Harrisburg that would thwart any attempt by the Mayor to push through a de facto tax hike by means of the Actual Value Initiative, which would reflect the full market value of properties. Although the Mayor says his move will be “revenue-neutral” – the new AVI tax rate will generate the same amount of taxes as the rate on the present “assessed” value, a rather arbitrary number not related to market value – the Mayor insists property values in general have gone up, so the propertytax take should go up too. Not so fast, said the resistors. They rejected the idea that a new tax rate should be set before the “actual values” of the AVI have been calculated first. “The Nutter Administration’s implementation of the Actual Value Initiative, or AVI, is a back-door tax increase. It’s also not the only way to help the financially struggling School District of Philadelphia,” said Farnese. “We have come together to call for joint action in the State Capital and in City Hall. We need to keep AVI truly revenue-neutral, or delay its implementation for one year until the reassessment is actually completed. We also want to explore other taxing alternatives to fund our schools. Enough is enough. The taxpayers of Philadelphia deserve to be treated with fair-
ness and honesty.” Yesterday, State Reps. Rosita C. Youngblood and Mike O’Brien hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee at the Independence Visitor Center, focusing on a legislative proposal to provide immediate funding for the Philadelphia School District while local and state officials debate the effect of property reassessment on city residents. The Actual Value Initiative, which will affect more than 577,000 Philadelphia property owners, was originally intended to level the playing field by creating fairness for all property owners in addition to ensuring that people in similar houses and neighborhoods pay similar property taxes. Unfortunately, it has become the Nutter Administration’s financial solution for the School District of Philadelphia’s $94 million budget deficit, affecting thousands of homeowners. The Pennsylvania Senate has already unanimously approved legislation that would authorize a homestead exemption in Philadelphia (SB 1301), and would give the Mayor all nine board appointments to a newly-reconstituted Board of Revision of Taxes (SB 1302). He needs these bills to carry out his plan. They are now in committee in the House. Farnese has introduced legislation (SB 1303) that would allow City Council – if it chooses – to delay AVI for one year, or to fund schools through other taxing alternatives. In the near future, the Senate will also consider additional legislation proposed by Farnese to bring Philadelphia’s assessor-certification standards in line with the rest of the state. If this bill sticks, the Mayor’s plan cannot be used to balance the books for Fiscal Year 2012-13. State Sen. Mike Stack (DNortheast) has also introduced legislation that would prevent the City of Philadelphia from increasing property taxes until it first improves its tax-collection rate, which is currently an abysmal 80%. “The taxpayers are ground down. State Many folks who own property often don’t have kids,” he said. “The people send us to Harrisburg
BRETT MANDEL, former director of Financial Policies Analysis Unit of the City Controller’s Office and a member of the City’s Tax Reform Commission, adds economic reasons why Mayor Nutter’s AVI tax should not go through this budget year as Sen. Larry Farnese and Rep. Rosita Youngblood look on. and we should stand up for “We all understand the need them.” to do something about property City Council President Dar- taxes and a fairer system of ryl Clarke admits the contro- valuation,” O’Brien said. “But versy has not been solved as we’re not going to govern by far as a majority of Council crisis. The administration members are concerned. There needs to take a step back and is still no consensus at this really listen to the alternawriting as to whether the tives.” mayor has the nine votes to Councilman Mark Squilla’s pass his plan. 1st Dist. contains a lot of genState Rep. Brendan Boyle trified areas. “It is unfair for also introduced HB 2397 that people, through no fault of would require any change in their own, to be pushed out of assessment methods to be rev- their homes by higher taxes.” enue-neutral. In recent years, Seniors are particularly vulhe said, property-taxes have nerable, said State Rep. Rosita crept up steadily – 9% on top Youngblood (D-Northwest). of 3½%, on top of an earlier “Of my homeowners, 19% are 9%. “It’s unfair and it’s seniors,” she said. “These peowrong” he said. ple are in their golden years. State Rep. Mike O’Brien Where are they going to find outlined a method whereby the the money to pay extra?” School District’s $97 million Her colleague Michelle shortfall can be fully funded Brownlee (D-N. Phila.) was without a property-tax in- blunt: “We are moving too far, crease, in time for schools to too fast,” she stated. open this fall. O’Brien recently “I get emails every day introduced legislation to tem- from worried constituents,” porarily divert gaming revenue said State Rep. Maria Doused for wage-tax reductions to natucci (D-S. Phila.). She said the Philadelphia School Dis- the Mayor will have to come trict. His bill would re-priori- up with a plan to soften the tize the use of these gaming blow for many homeowners. funds for the next five years. Councilman Bill Green O’Brien accused the Nutter spoke ominously of larger Administration of “governing flaws in the Mayor’s plan. in a panic. In pushing forward “Wake up!” he warned. The with AVI, they are oblivious Mayor’s initiative, he said, and indifferent to the angst they would shift a large burden are causing city homeowners from commercial-property and the parents of our school- owners onto the backs of resichildren, as well as to the con- dential owners. sequences of their actions. One reform still far down “Re-prioritizing this fund- the pike: bagging Pennsylvaing of about $88 million would nia’s infamous “uniformity give everyone time to consider, clause”, which compels all real implement and benefit from estate to be taxed at the same changes to the way State we as- rate. In most other states, musess properties and administer nicipalities are permitted to tax our schools,” O’Brien said.” commercial real estate at a
higher rate than residential properties. That’s usually okay with big commercial operators because they can pass this cost on to their tenants. Pennsylvania forbids this. Instead, the City is forced to rely on instruments like the wage tax, which businesses loathe. So any move that would make a bad commercial/residential tax ratio even worse could do serious harm, these rebels charge. Jeff Hornstein, president of Queen Village Neighbors Association, spoke on behalf of 16 civic groups that maintain their communities could be devastated by a hasty AVI without ways to “protect the vulnerable.” Most scathing of all was civic activist and budget watchdog Brett Mandel, who is eyeing another run for City Controller in 2013. The Nutter Administration’s approach, he snapped, amounted to “Ready, fire, aim!” Other lawmakers have made known they stand with the rush-job resisters. State Rep. James Roebuck (D-W. Phila.) and State Sen. LeAnna Washington (D-Northwest) have signed on. Squilla and Green said they are seeking for a nine-vote majority on City Council to block the Mayor’s proposed rush to introduce AVI taxation sight unseen. They don’t have it yet, they noted. Although the dust hasn’t settled yet, such a broad-based, coordinated revolt against a core mayoral policy has not been seen for a generation at least. The City collected approximately $1.047 billion in property taxes in the last tax year ($458 million for the City’s general fund and $589 million for the School District). If the reassessment was truly revenue-neutral, then the City’s total property-tax collections after reassessment would be approximately $1.047 billion. In an honest, revenue-neutral process, the resistors assert, a city would determine the total property values and then adjust the millage rate to ensure that the total revenue did not result in a windfall.
The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($30 per year Optional Subscription) The Philadelphia Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila., PA 19147 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila. PA 19147 215-755-2000 Fax: 215-689-4099 Editor@phillyrecord.com
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.
JUDGE John Braxton, City Controller Alan Butkovitz and Veterans Court Judge Pat Dugan show their support for soldiers and veterans at Vietnam Memorial services. Dugan is drilling reservist and Iraq vet.
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
KOREAN AMERICAN soldiers proudly served in US Military during Korean conflict as they still do today are seen CHUCK WHITE, President of Local 830 Teamsters, poses here at Korean War Memorial in Society Hill. Thanks from with 82nd Airborne Association Color Guard. Local 830 has Photo by Joe Stivala been invited to join in next year’s Vietnam service. the Public Record.
Page 3
Covering Memorial Day Commemorations With Joe Stivala
RICHARD VAUX-IVANHOE Masonic Lodge Worshipful Master John Kline and members are joined by Councilman CITY CONTROLLER Allan Butkovitz and Bill Rubin were LADIES of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion lay David Oh and Judge Pat Dugan, in uniform, at Lodge supporters of Port Richmond Parade, on hand to back our wreath at the grave of Gen. George Gordon Meade at Laurel Hill Cemetery Memorial Day Services. men and women in uniform. Wreath laying at Vietnam Memorial.
And
Invite you to participate in the 12th Annual Special Supplement promoting the vital role of the Philadelphia Port, its future and your contribution to
Never Ever Forgotten Love you, Miss you Big Daddy Thank you Philadelphia for your support, The Lyde Family
Coming June 14th • Call John David at 215-755-2000
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
this State’s most powerful economic engine.
Page 4 The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Is Smith Closing In? Or Just Temporarily? A meager 48% of likely voters in Pennsylvania said they would vote for Democratic Sen. Bob Casey while 41% said they would back Republican candidate Tom Smith, according to the latest poll. “This most recent public poll clearly demonstrates a tightening race with growing momentum for Tom Smith,” said Smith Campaign Manager Jim Conroy. “It’s evident that voters are responding to Tom’s message of job creation and fiscal restraint, while turning away from Sen. Casey’s record as a rubber stamp for the Obama Administration’s massive spending and debt.” “While Sen. Casey is well known by the electorate and failing to break 50%, nearly a third of the electorate has yet to formulate an opinion on Tom Smith,” added Smith pollster John McLaughlin. “As Smith continues to increase his name identification the race will continue to tighten -- this race is clearly winnable and will be close.” The Rasmussen poll, which
was released last week, asked 500 likely voters across Pennsylvania which candidate they would support in a head-tohead matchup, if the election was held today. The poll has a margin of error of plus-orminus 4.5 percentage points. Observers attribute the narrowing of the lead to the fact, Smith ran an aggressive campaign to win the five-way contested seat and spending of his own money to boost his way to success. Democrat Likely For Attorney Gen.
Kathleen Kane continues to enjoy momentum from her win in the Democratic primary last month; the former prosecutor from Lackawanna Co. leads Republican Cumberland Co. DA Dave Freed 42-33 percent. Kane’s campaign polling shows her with a 48 to 27% lead. Auditor and Treasurer Seem Democratic
Democrats hold identical one point leads in both downballot statewide races. State Rep. Eugene DePasquale (DSTATE REP. JOHN
]|ÅÅç W|Çà|ÇÉ GOP (215) 468-2300
SABATINA JR. 174th District 8100 Castor Ave Phila, PA 19152 T: 215-342-6204
York) is in front of State Rep. John Maher (R-Allegheny) 35-34) in the race for Auditor General. Incumbent Treasurer Rob McCord (D) leads Washington Co. Commissioner Diana Irey Vaughn 35-34% as well. That may not set well for McCord. Finally, Democrats lead the generic congressional ballot in PA 45-42 %, including a 10-point lead with independents. PPP, a firm that often works for Democrats, surveyed 671 Pennsylvania vofrom May 17-20 via automated telephone interviews. The margin of error for the survey is +/-3.8%. Pa. Voters Against Same-Sex Marriage
Public Policy Polling released a poll of 500 Pennsylvania voters that indicates an overwhelming majority oppose redefining marriage. According to the poll, 61% of Pennsylvania voters, including 61% of African-American voters and 50% of young voters, support maintaining the
traditional definition of marriage — one man, one woman. “We’re glad to see that Pennsylvanians still value marriage between husband and wife and we are hopeful that they will be given the opportunity to protect marriage with a vote at the ballot box, just as citizens in 30 other states have done,” said Michael Geer, president of the Pennsylvania Family Institute. Although much attention has been paid to Question 8 of the poll, which asks if “samesex marriage should be legal or illegal,” Question 9, which includes an option for civil unions, more accurately draws out opinions on marriage. When faced with the full range of policy options, 61% of Pennsylvania voters choose either “there should be no legal recognition of a gay couple’s relationship” or “gay couples should be allowed to form civil unions but not marry.” That is, 61% specifically indicate opposition to redefining the bedrock institution of marriage. Moreover, despite reports
Senator
State Rep.
Vincent Hughes
Brendan F.
Boyle
4950 Parkside Ave. Suite 300 Phila PA 19131 215-879-7777
170th Dist. 14230 Bustleton Ave. Phila., PA 19116
215-676-0300
STATE SENATOR
LEANNA M. WASHINGTON DISTRICT OFFICE
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
1555-D Wadsworth Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 (215) 242-0472 Fax: (215) 753-4538
that African American voters now support redefining marriage, when offered the full range of policy options, 61% specifically indicate the State should not disturb the timeless definition of marriage. Perhaps most strikingly, however, today’s poll clearly shows that, in Pennsylvania, and in stark contrast with conventional wisdom, young voters are not poised to carry the marriage-redefinition movement to inevitability. Fully 50% of 18-29-year-old voters specifically indicate Pennsylvania should not recognize same-sex relationships as marriages. In fact, redefining marriage receives majority support from only two groups in the entire poll: “very liberal” and “somewhat liberal,” which combined only make up 30% of Pennsylvania voters. Marriage redefinition fails to achieve a majority among every other group: men, women, moderates, Democrats, etc. The poll is yet another reminder to statewide candidates of the value Pennsylvania voters place on the institution of marriage. As efforts to impose same-sex marriage on Pennsylvania percolate in the courts, rest assured: any attempt to do so by judicial fiat State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600
State Rep.
Mark B.
COHEN 202nd District
WEB SITE
6001 N. 5th St.
www.senatorwashington.com
215-924-0895
Tartaglione 2nd Dist. 127 W. Susquehanna Ave. 1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19122 Philadelphia, PA 19124
215-291-4653
215-533-0440
Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley has set Tuesday, Aug. 7 as the date for a special election to fill the 40th Senatorial Dist. in Allegheny and Butler Cos. left vacant by the May 21 resignation of State Sen. Jane Orie. Cawley signed a writ of election declaring the seat vacant and directing the Secretary of State to hold the election on the prescribed date in the affected municipalities. “After consultations with the Governor and Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, I decided to set an early date so that the citizens of that senate district could have representation as soon as possible. They are entitled to their voice in the Senate,” Cawley said. “I am fully supportive of Lt. Gov. Cawley’s decision to call the special election for Aug. 7 in order that the newly elected member has the opportunity to cast votes on several important fall issues including pension reform and infrastructure investment,” Scarnati said. State Rep. Harold
James 1610 S. Broad St Phila PA 19145 P: 215-952-3378 F: 215-952-1411
Rep.Maria P.
Donatucci
D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164
Parker
Anthony Hardy Williams
200th Legislative District 1536 E. Wadsworth Ave. Phone: (215) 242-7300 Fax: (215) 242-7303 www.pahouse.com/Parker
8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 Fax: (215) 492-2990 Always Hard Working .. . for You!
Cawley Sets Aug. 7 For Sen. Special Election
State Rep. Cherelle
State Senator
Senator Tina
would be an unmistakable usurpation of the will of the people — all the people — of our Commonwealth.
Councilman Wm.
Greenlee
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
State Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
215-271-9190
gave up on arriving at a peaceful resolution. They called a meeting of all ward leaders at St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church in Northern Liberties. There, 20 ward leaders or chairs elected Rick Hellberg, an outgoing financial planner who challenged Congressman Chaka Fattah (DPhila.) in the 2008 election. According to the reckoning of the meeting’s organizers, this constituted a quorum of the 36 Republican wards in the city (out of 66) which are organized and entitled to vote. The long-time leadership of Canuso and Meehan did not initiate the revolution within the ranks. They have, however, been blamed for the inability of the Republican City
to do more than hold onto its hard-core 120,000 registrations in a city long dominated by Congressman Bob Brady’s Democrat City Committee, which at times has been able to evangelize and gather into the fold as many as 800,000 Democrats, most of them loyal to a fault. Year after year, the State Republican Party has seen the majorities amassed by their statewide candidates disappear as the Brady-led Democrat machine continually rolls up anywhere from 350,000 to 450,000 majorities. Those tallies often were enough to sink their candidates. Several years back a group of unhappy city GOP members began trying to effect changes
they felt could bring a resurgence to the party. These included Ward Leaders Joe DeFelice, Kevin Kelly, nowCommissioner Al Schmidt, Mike Cibik and Matt Wolfe among a handful of others. At the party reorganization meeting in June of 2010, Canuso and Meehan found themselves inundated with a flood of new ward leaders, some who had gotten elected in wards which had as few as three or as many as a dozen Republican committeepersons, recruited by the dissidents, who had been elected that primary. These were wards long absent any Republican activity, demographically dominated by 90% or more traditionally Democrat
African American voters. You didn’t need 10 fingers to count the number of Republicans in any one division. The dissidents had figured out they could go into long-ignored Black dominated wards, where token leaders had been handpicked by the party leadership, and reach out to the handful of Republicans, who were happy to oblige, to get their own ward leaders elected. At that contentious 2010 meeting, held at the centuryold United Republican Club in Kensington, the day was rainy. The crowd huddled under a tent erected on the sidewalk, was not of the traditional rank and file awaiting the outcome of the reorganiza-
tion election. It included many of the new ward leaders who were kicked out of the reorganization meeting after they presented their credentials to Meehan and Canuso. In hindsight, as both sides came to recognize, had the new ward leaders been allowed to vote, they would not have able to overcome the ward-leader vote loyal to the incumbent City Committee leadership. A delegation of the dissidents, led by Schmidt and DeFelice among others, met with State Republican Party Chair Rob Gleason and appealed for his support to help them maintain and grow the opposition to the City Committee leader(Cont. Page 13)
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
by Joe Shaheeli Activists in the Republican Party in Philadelphia refuse to understand the reason for their existence. Rather than provide city leadership, attract voters, pick winnable candidates, raise election-day money and get their candidates elected, they are instead engaged in a civil war. Don’t blame the rank and file of the existing Republican City Committee, most of whom would rather see peace at this point. War was declared on May 24, after a faction which had long been seeking to negotiate the retirement of third-generation RCC Counsel Mike Meehan and his ally Vito Canuso, who chaired City Committee,
Page 5
Local GOP Intent On Self-Destruction?
GOP Loyalists Check In At Rep. Taylor’s Fundraiser
STATE REP. John Taylor, 3rd from left, was pleased by large attendance of ward leaders to his fundraiser at Quaker City Yacht Club. He attributed it to fact City Committee opposition forces had called for a reorganization meeting the same evening; so ward leaders at his fundraiser implicitly showed support for Mike Meehan’s version of Republican City Committee. From left are Teamsters leader Daniel Grace, AFT President Ted Kirsch and Ward Leader Bill Ivers.
ENJOYING Taylor fundraiser were REPUBLICAN candidate for Common- Ward Leaders Bill Pettigrew and Al CITY COMMISSIONER Al Schmidt wealth Treasurer Diane Irey Vaughan Taubenberger, seen here flanking shared political talk with Ward Leader addresses crowd at Taylor fundraiser. Tom Berry. Lou Vega and Seth Bluestein.
State Sen. Shirley M.
Kitchen GATHERED around State Rep. John Taylor, city’s only Republican legislator in General Assembly, are Linwood Holland and Ward Leaders Joe Samuel, Chuckie Tillie and Calvin Tucker.
Green Room 312 City Hall P. 215.686.3420/21 F. 215.686.1930
R EPRESENTATIVE
State Representative
A NGEL C RUZ RONALD G. DISTRICT OFFICE
3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643 Ready to Serve you
WATERS 191st Leg. District 6027 Ludlow Street, Unit A
215-748-6712
3rd Sen. District 1701 W. Lehigh Ave. Suite 104 Phila., PA 19132
215-227-6161 www.senatorkitchen.com
Parkwood Shopping Center 12361 Academy Road, Phila., PA 19154, 215-281-2539 8016 Bustleton Avenue Philadelphia PA 19152 215-695-1020 Open Mon. - Fri. 9:00 AM - 5 PM
Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Councilman Bill
A veterans’ services coordinator is now available at my District Office at 8016 Bustleton Avenue to assist former service men and women. Joseph Buckley, a veteran with extensive veteran outreach experience, will be available by appointment to help veterans and their families with various issues, including housing for homeless vets, access to medical services, obtaining deceased vets’ medals for surviving families and more. To set up an appointment, please call my office at 215-695-1020.
Page 6 The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Eastwick Says No To Korman Proposal Korman, long active in Philadelphia as a builder of apartment and home developments, has run into a group of Eastwick citizens who say no to their newest effort to develop an apartment tract around 84th Street bordering the John Heinz Bird Refuge. This group includes the Friends of The Bird Refuge, who are truly troubled because the federal wildlife preserve, soon to be partially uprooted to allow for airport expansion, will suffer further destruction if Korman developers receive zoning approval
to develop a 135-acre parcel of green space bordering on Lindbergh Boulevard and the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. A Korman delegation, led by John Korman, after making its presentation to turn the site into 772 rental apartments in 51 two-story units, found the over 125 residents in attendance in almost unanimous opposition. Many attendees recall previous Korman promises which never materialized when that firm built hundreds of homes and apartments in Eastwick.
Some at the meeting recalled how the City condemned 2,500 acres of land displacing about 10,000 residents out of their homes, while promising new houses for those displaced residents. Matthew Stover added an additional opposing force as he represented wildlife advocates, saying, “Wildlife species have nowhere else to go -- and the construction will hurt them. The City Council plan to allocate Refuge lands from an old Oscar Mayer site is not good for the migratory birds.” Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, in whose 2nd Dist. in-
Taking Care Of Her Ladies
cludes the Eastwick site, heard the opposition loud and clear. Some of their concerns included a long suffering Eastwick problem, flooding. They told Johnson is located in a flood plain identified by FEMA. They also claimed Korman would literally “steal STATE REP. Michelle Brownlee hosted Mother’s Day event the property”, since, under a for senior moms in her district at her headquarters with discontract with the City, Kor- plays, food and entertainment outside and inside. man can pick up the property Photos by Donald Terry at a price fixed back in the 1950s. The site has an estimated value of $7 million. They also cited traffic problems and occupancy increases as detrimental to the existing homeowners, as well as the Wildlife Refuge. WELCOMING seniors to State Rep. Michelle Brownlee’s 195th Legislative Dist. were, from left, Beverly Moore, Brownlee, Voanita Beverly and Dolous Martin.
PART OF CROWD which voted their opposition to Korman plans to build 772 rental apartments on green space in Eastwick.
GIVE THE GIFT OF NOSTALGIA Give the 5 Waffleman Books Memories they’ll always Cherish. They will remember you everytime they read them!
Call: Joe “Bag-A Donuts”
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
215-463-2632
BOTTOM DOLLAR representatives explained their approach to providing fresh fruit and produce to seniors. From left are Van Tu, State Rep. Michelle Brownlee, Maureen Skedzieclewski and Mike Brennan. Advertisement
MAYOR MUSICIAN Who’s Pulling Hon. Nutter’s Strings?
Part 76/80 In 1999, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce boldly proclaimed: "OUR VERY OWN CAPED CRUSADER... ARTS AND CULTURE CHAMPION, MICHAEL NUTTER." The business group listed the honorable's accomplishments, as follows: • One of his first bold acts as mayor was to increase the city's allocation to the Philadelphia Cultural Fund From $2.2 million to $3.2 million. •He reopened the Office of Arts and Culture and revised its mission to include development of for-profit creative industries. The new Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy underscores the inextricable link between the creative organizations in both sectors and is the first of its kind in city history.
2002 Honda Model EX 26,000 Original Miles 5-Speed Manual • Sunroof • New Tires
ARTS AND CULTURE CHAMPION, MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER
•The mayor created a new cabinet-level position to head the new office. Our chief cultural officer now has a seat at the mayor's table, creating important policy for arts and culture.
Call: 215-423-3631
Top of The Line Suits from Italy Tailored to your fit.
PAT & ANNA SCIOLI
1744 E. Passyunk Ave. • 215-334-0990
• Lastly, the mayor included expansion of after-school arts programming at the city's recreation centers, public schools and other facilities in his curriculum reform platform. He also promised at least two arts experiences a year for each child in the Philadelphia school system and distribution of unused corporate tickets to city youth.
Next Installment: Discover the dead.-end-road where the city's mayor and the "behind-the-scenes government" are taking, and misguiding Philadelphia's youth. —Nicola Argentina (c) 2012 Framer of TEA PARTY MOVEMENT
high school student. Id. A child disabled at age 18, or at or prior to age 22, may get benefits until the third month after the month in which disability stops. 42 U.S.C. section 402 (d)(1)(G). The benefit for a child with a living parent is 1/2 of the parent’s PIA, and 3/4 if the parent died. 42 U.S.C. section 402 (d)(2).
by Tom Flynn & Rocco DeGregorio Question: My car is supposed to get 29 MPG but I rarely ever get that good a gas mileage. How can I improve and get more miles per gallon? Answer: Dear reader, this is a great question! We have a lot of tips for you to help you get better gas
by Michael A. Cibik, Esquire American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: Does surrendering your home in bankruptcy mean it’s not yours? Answer: You walk into bankruptcy to get rid of your mortgage. You walk out still owning real estate. How’s that happen? It’s al-
most a joke — when does surrender not mean surrender? It’s not a funny joke, but one nonetheless. Here’s the tip: when you surrender property in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’re doing nothing more than indicating a willingness to let it go. You’re not actually handing it off to anyone. When you go through the
mileage. First, don’t drive like you are in a Nascar race. Driving at lower speeds requires less fuel. Second, as if getting stuck in traffic isn’t the pits already, stopand-go traffic also is not good on the gas tank. I am sure you’ve heard this one before, but tire pressure is a big one too.
Always make sure your tires are inflated (a nitro tire fill can also help with this). We have many more tips and tricks for getting better gas mileage. If you’d like to know more, ask us questions at www.facebook.com/pacificoautogroup. Tom has been serving automotive customers in the Philadelphia are for over 20 years as a salesman and then general manager of Pacifico Auto Group. Rocco is a top auto consultant.
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA Sealed proposals will be received by the School Reform Commission at the School Administration Building located at 440 North Broad St., 3rd Floor, Office of Capital Programs, Philadelphia, PA 19130-4015, until 2:00 P.M., on Tuesday, June 19, 2012. A non-refundable fee for each set of bid documents is as scheduled. The School District will only accept bids from companies that have been placed on its current Pre Qualified Contractors List as shown at psit.org. All School District Project require MBE/WBE participation as shown in the specifications.
Specifications and/or plans and contract documents may be examined and copies thereof obtained from the School Reform Commission, 440 North Broad Street, 3rd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19130.
Get an Insider’s Look at Politics in Philadelphia For $30 a Year, Get Yourself a Weekly Digest of the Activities of State and City Political Leaders and Behind the Scenes Reports. Subscribe to the Public Record Name: __________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ Signature:_________________________________ [ ] Check/MO enclosed [ ] Bill me [ ] Charge My Credit Card: ________________________ Expiration: ______/_______ Visa: [ ] MC: [ ] AX: [ ] Today’s Date: _____________
Information as to contract documents, etc., may be obtained at the above address, or telephone 215-400-4730. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.
Cost is $30.00 yearly
The School Reform Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and make the awards to the best interests of the School District of Philadelphia.
1321 S. Broad Street Philadelphia PA 19147
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
FEE BUDGET Roof Replacement $1,845,000.00 $200.00 Mayfair Elementary School 2901 Princeton Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19149 * A pre-bid conference and site tour will be held at the project location, on May 25, 2012 at 01:30 p.m. B-065 C of 2010/11 General Construction
You’re not personally liable to the bank for any deficiency on the mortgage, but you do own the property. That means you’ve got to comply with all local laws regarding ownership. Keep the sidewalks clear of debris, trim the trees out front, and the like. If you get a citation after you bankruptcy is filed, you’re going to be on the hook for it. If we’re talking about a condo or house with a homeowners’ association then you’re going to remain liable for all post-bankruptcy HOA charges. Once again, this is still legally your place. In the end, it’s for you to realize the impact of your decision to surrender. Take the steps necessary to protect yourself, but also recognize that your liability for some things may not end until the deed is signed over. Next Week’s Question: How can your fiancée lose the engagement ring in your bankruptcy case?
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
by Michael P. Boyle, Esq. Widows, widowers, and surviving divorced spouses may qualify for benefits based on their deceased spouses’ earnings records. A widow/widower or surviving divorced spouse of an individual who died fully insured is entitled to benefits if he or she: is not married; has attained age 60, or has attained age 50 but not age 60 and is disabled; filed for benefits; is not entitled to old-age insurance benefits, or is entitled to such benefits which are less than the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the deceased spouse. 42 U.S.C. sections 402 (e), (f). A widow/widower does not have to be disabled to receive these benefits if he or she is 60 years old, unmarried, and his/her PIA is lower than his/her deceased spouse. A widow/widower who is over 50 but less than 60 may apply for widow’s/widower’s disability benefits. In order to receive these benefits, a claimant must show that his/her disability occurred within seven years of the death of his/her spouse. 42 U.S.C. sections 402 (e)(4), (f)(4). A child of a person entitled to old-age or disability insurance benefits, or of a person who dies a fully or currently insured individual, may receive benefits if she: files an application; is unmarried and was under age 18 or was a full-time grade- or high-school student and had turned 19, or is under a disability which began before she turned 22; is dependent upon a parent at the time the application was filed or, if the parent was disabled, at the beginning of the time the parent became disabled. 42 U.S.C. section 402 (d)(1). For nondisabled children, entitlement ends in the month in which the child dies or marries, turns 18, or in the first month in which she is no longer a full-time grade or
bankruptcy, you’re looking to discharge your obligations. In return, you’re surrendering your property that’s not considered exempt under the bankruptcy laws. There is, however, nothing in the law that requires the bankruptcy trustee to take the property. Rather, the trustee’s goal is to liquidate and sell property that will yield a financial benefit to the creditors. If he or she looks at something and doesn’t think it’s financially worth it to sell, then no liquidation occurs. In addition, discharging your personal obligation to repay the mortgage doesn’t mean the bank magically becomes the owner. Rather, the bank’s got to get title to the property either by foreclosure and sheriff sale, deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, short sale, or other legal means. Unless and until the bank takes action and takes back title to the house, however, it’s still legally yours.
Page 7
Learn What To Do From The Professionals
Page 8 The Public Record • May 31, 2012 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Many Civic Groups Will Be Cut Out Of Zoning by Tony West Come Jul. 1, 2012, many civic associations will lose their power to weigh in if development comes to their block. That’s when Philadelphia’s comprehensive zoning-code reforms will take effect. The aim of the new code is to make the rules clear enough that most developers can build “by right”, without seeking the approval of the community around the site. Some civic groups will still be able to sit at the table. To do so, however, they must meet certain standards themselves and formally register with the City for the
first time in history. Some community activists are hopping mad. The new requirements are unfair, they charge, and constitute a wrongful effort by the City to put community-based organizations under its thumb. On Apr. 16, Lee Tolbert, president of the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods & Businesses, fired off a letter to Alan Greenberger, chairman of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, which will compile a registry of Registered Community Organizations for zoning purposes. WPCNB claims to represent 125 CBOs, churches, businesses and institutions west
of the Schuylkill. He described the new regulations as “an effort to control the CBOs, which is beyond the authority of the Planning Commission, City Council and the City.” Under the new law, CBOs will lose the right to speak on building projects unless they register and become RCOs. To do so, they must have governing documents, elected officers, regularly scheduled public meetings and official service boundaries. “These criteria assume a level of sophistication that many grass-roots organizations might not have,” Tolbert noted. “In addition,
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 120102435 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Deutsche Bank National Trust Company on Behalf of Financial Asset Securities Corporation, Soundview Home Loan Trust WMC1, Asset Backed Certificates, Series 2007-WMC1, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Helen Bunting, Deceased & Michael Bunting, Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Helen Bunting, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Helen Bunting, Deceased & Michael Bunting, Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Helen Bunting, Deceased, Mortgagors and Real Owners, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 1930 West Sparks Street, Philadelphia, PA 19141. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client. Any information obtained from you will be used for the purpose of collecting the debt. You are hereby notified that Plaintiff, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company on Behalf of Financial Asset Securities Corporation, Soundview Home Loan Trust WMC1, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007WMC1, has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 120102435, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1930 West Sparks Street, Philadelphia, PA 19141, whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. Notice: You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below. This office can provide you with information about hiring a lawyer. If you cannot afford to hire a Lawyer, this office may be able to provide you with information about agencies that may offer legal services to eligible persons at a reduced fee or no fee. Phila. Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215-238-6333. Community Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, 3638 N. Broad St., Phila., PA 19140, 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Independence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
many organizations do not have the resources to comply.” If the City wants these groups to organize formally, it should pay for their expenses, Tolbert proposed. At a WPCNB meeting last week, grassroots leaders chimed in their displeasure with the new law. In working-class neighborhoods, organizations tend to be reactive, explained Lucinda Hudson, president of Parkside Association of Philadelphia. They don’t meet all the time; instead, they come together ad hoc when there’s a problem – with a proposed development, for instance. Many grassroots leaders are informally recognized by
their neighbors, she noted, but founding an organization is not their community’s priority. Many civic leaders at the meeting feared the new rules would unleash a torrent of development that will change the character of workingclass communities. Tiffany Green of Concerned Neighbors of Point Breeze said developers in her neighborhood only want to build three-story housing. They aren’t interested in the two-story homes that provide affordable housing on small streets for the working class. “In other areas where threestory development has been permitted, within 10 years
it’s been found 65% of the original residents had moved on,” Green said. “Who in our community can afford $300,000 for a new house?” asked Theresa McCormack of CNPB. “There needs to be a mix of housing for different income levels.” The City should make it easy, not hard, for residents to have input into how their neighborhood is developed, said these activists. They said they will press City Council to revise the new code to allow groups of all sorts to testify on building projects. “We want to see building ‘by right’ rescinded,” stated Tolbert.
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 120301914 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Evelyn B. Scott, Deceased, Deborah Scott, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Evelyn B. Scott, Deceased, Clarence Scott, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Evelyn B. Scott, Deceased & Harvey C. Brooks, Jr., Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Evelyn B. Scott, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: The Unknown Heirs of Evelyn B. Scott, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 1110 East Cliveden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client. Any information obtained from you will be used for the purpose of collecting the debt. You are hereby notified that Plaintiff, Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 120301914, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1110 East Cliveden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. Notice: You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below. This office can provide you with information about hiring a lawyer. If you cannot afford to hire a Lawyer, this office may be able to provide you with information about agencies that may offer legal services to eligible persons at a reduced fee or no fee. Community Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, 3638 N. Broad St., Phila., PA 19140, 215-227-2400/215-981-3700. Phila. Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215-238-6333. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Independence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
Page 9
Our Opinion ...
Something Is Wrong, Someplace
Another Opinion
GOP Convention Is What’s Needed
bruising court battle that will prove costly to both sides. Fortunately, there is another way forward. The only fair and responsible solution to the question of who should be recognized as party chair is to hold an open convention in which all duly elected committeepersons chosen in the May 2010 primary and those appointed to fill vacancies as of last November’s general election are permitted to vote via secret ballot for the candidate of their choice. Much like the method uti-
Mark Your Calendar
Jun. 2- State Rep. Cherelle Parker sponsors legal workshop on Your Right to Know at Finley Recreation Ctr., 7701 lized in most of Pennsylvania’s 67 Counties, this process will be open to the press, affords all duly elected and appointed committeepersons an equally weighted voted, permits any possible candidate to be nominated from the floor, and gives all candidates an opportunity to speak before the rank and file they are seeking to lead. Above all else, the open-convention option must feature a proper 30-day call by which all of the eligible committeepersons are notified via US Mail to prevent any one faction from claiming they were excluded from the process. An open convention with a proper public call by which committeepersons who directly represent the Republican voters in this city choose their leader via secret ballot is the only way to restore legitimacy to the RCC among the
Mansfield Ave. For info (215) 242-7300. Jun. 3- Italian National Day, La Festa Della Repubblica, in S. Phila. on E. Passyunk Ave. between Mifflin and Moore Sts., 12-6 p.m. Rain or shine. For info (215) 334-8882. Jun. 3- Congregations of Shaare Shamayim marks 50th anniversary at 9768 Verree Rd. public, the press, and the rank and file themselves. Any other attempt to choose a chairman without the direct input of the rank and file will not restore confidence in the party or legitimacy to the organization. I hereby call on all factions competing for control of the Philadelphia RCC to embrace an open convention, allowing our committeepersons who are the heart and soul of this party to choose a leader in a fair and inclusive public process. (Shrader is a PhD politicalscience candidate at Temple University. He is former vice chairman of the 5th Ward Republican Committee, former political director of the Westmoreland Co. Republican Committee. He is a member of the NRA as well as Republicans for Environmental Protection.)
Event will honor David L. Cohen, Exec. VP, Comcast, with Highest Honor Award (Kol Hakavod) for his service, especially in the Jewish community. Honorary Co-chairs are Gov. Ed Rendell and Hon. Jonathan Saidel. Entertainment by “Broadway Sings”. Event starts at 2:30 p.m. For ticket info and to place ad in Souvenir Commemorative Journal (215677-1600) or Dr. Ruth Horwitz, Tribute Committee (215) 913-1991. Jun. 5- Phila. Republican Happy Hour at Paddy Whacks, 1509 South St. hosted by 5th & 8th Wards and Philly Republicans of Color, first Tuesday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Joe DeFelice, State GOP Director, guest speaker. Jun. 9Republican State Senatorial candidate Mike Tomlinson fundraiser at Chickie’s & Pete’s, 11000 Roosevelt Blvd. Tickets at door $40, two for $75. For info contact Kathy Lombardi, (215) 519-7553 or kimb157@comcast.net. Jun. 10- St. Edmond’s Parish Centennial Dinner at Penn’s Landing Caterers, 1301 S. Columbus Blvd., 2-6 p.m. Ticket $65 with a cash bar. For info (215) 334-3755.
Jun. 14- Fundraiser for Councilwoman Cindy Bass at Tavern 17, Radisson Warwick Hotel, 220 S. 17th St., 5-7 p.m. Ticket levels $50 to $1,000. RSVP by Jun. 7 to Fran Fattah at RSVP@CindyBass.com or (215) 370-9883. Jun. 15-16-7- Annual St. Maron Church Lebanese Festival on Ellsworth St. between 10th and 11th. Friday from 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. Admission free. All welcome. Authentic Middle East cuisine and entertainment. Jun. 15-17- Remembering Juneteenth (Freedom Day, June 19) three day celebration hosted by Berean Baptist Church, 2425-33 W. Indiana Av. Rev. James Henry Buck, Jr., pastor. For info call 215-229-8048. Jun. 15- Celebrating 60th anniversary of SS United States and Stack Lighting at Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., 6:30-9 p.m. Tickets $30. Jun. 22- Cocktail reception for Joe Rooney, Republican 13th Dist. congressional candidate, hosted by Donna Parisi at A Child’s Place, 524 Sugartown Rd., Devon, Pa. Tickets $150$1,000. For info Maria Diezel (610) 430-0419.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
by Nathan Shrader Last week, one faction within the Philadelphia Republican City Committee – including many ward leaders and individuals whom I consider to be personal friends – held an election and claimed the winner is the rightful chairman of the RCC. The current leaders of City Committee will reject this claim as illegitimate, since only 32 of the party’s ward leaders were invited to participate. The result will undoubtedly lead to a brutal public skirmish and a
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Headline confuse you? It ceases when you add to the statement “with the School District.” We don’t mind millions of dollars in shortfalls and the need to raise taxes. We have to educate our kids! But we are beginning to have doubts that our graduates have been educated. That question continues to grow as a dominating factor in conversations with legislators, voters, school leaders, the PFT and everyone else. As hard as our teachers try, why is it what they say, the educational tools they use, the curriculums tailored for special needs, have not sunk into the brains of our graduates for the last 10 years? Why, instead, does it just roll over their heads without being absorbed? True, our grade scores have gone up slowly but surely; but the proof is in the graduates themselves. How do they perform? How do they interact with society? To what goals are they focused? Look around and test for yourself. Pull up to a McDonald’s and test the language skills of the youngsters manning the drive-in windows. Test the performance level of the youngsters working at K-Marts, or some supermarkets, or in convenience stores. All too often, you need to finally ask for a manager to get you what you want. We could go on with examples. Add your own. What is the cancer that has eaten at the brains of our youngsters in such a way as to convince the majority of them academic achievement is a wasted ambition of generations past? We can blame parentless family upbringing. We can blame drugs in and around the schools. We can blame the schools’ command structure and its rules and regulations. In truth, we can spin our wheels this way. But deep down in our gut and soul, we know the reason is the senseless, crude, lascivious programming that dominates every television channel and addresses every age group, down to our toddlers. We need to beg our legislative bodies to focus on just why they can’t rein in this flood of crap.
Page 10 The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Firefighters Press Demand To Fire Ayers Despite Mayor Michael Nutter's affirmation of his Fire Commissioner and his two top deputies, leaders of Firefighters Local 22 continue to press their efforts to have Commissioner Lloyd Ayers and Deputy Commissioners
John Devlin and Ernest Hargett. The firefighters union leadership contends the adoption of Mayor Michael Nutter's efforts to economically scale down the Fire Dept. and the inability of the deputy com-
missioners to properly handle the multi-alarm fire, which resulted in the deaths of two firefighters, are continued serious cause for concern. Firefighters Local 22 President Bill Gault faulted Commissioner Ayers for failing to
Mayor Nutter and his L&I Department for not doing more than issuing multiple citations to the owners of the abandoned hosiery mill. He said "The city has hundreds of abandoned buildings such as the one that caused the deaths
of both firefighters. Each is a death trap awaiting our fire fighters." Two investigations are now underway -- one by a local grand jury and the second by the Fire Marshal's Office.
Drexel, Temple Honor Kal Rudman Philadelphia Public Record readers know Kal Rudman as a humanitarian and, together with his wife Lucille, as philanthropists. Their Kal & Lucille Rudman Foundation has poured millions over the years into making lives better by providing scholarships to needy students, financing programs such as medical technical training for at-risk youngsters, scholarships to police and firefighters to help them gain degrees in public safety, scholarships to promote talented youthful musicians, and on and on. The Kal & Lucille Rudman Foundation has funded television studios and equipment to both Temple and Drexel Universities, permitting Temple, like Drexel, to launch its own television channel. To the rest of the world he is called the “Prophet of Pop”, the “Round Mound of Sound” and the “Big Beat” and in entertainment circles is
most famously known as “The Man with the Golden Ears” which helped him for over four decades to run the Friday Morning Quarterback, one of the most-influential trade publications in the music industry. Last night, Kal & Lucille were hosted at a VIP reception sponsored by Drexel and Temple at the Mitchell Auditorium, 3140 Market Street. Attendees were treated to a performance by the awardwinning Creative Arts Morgan Village Academy Choir of Camden, N.J., recently back from winning second place in the Young Prague Music Competition in the Czech Republic. It’s their way of thanking the Rudmans for making the difference and coming through at the 11th hour with the philanthropic funding that enabled the choir’s dream adventure overseas. In an interview-style program, Rudman sat down with Karen Curry, the executive
director of the Kal & Lucille Rudman Institute for Entertainment Industry Studies at Drexel University, and Paul Gluck, general manager of TUTV/The Kal & Lucille Rudman Media Production Center at Temple University, to share the secrets and stories of his “record-breaking” career as an incomparable music industry trailblazer and tastemaker. Those attending the event or viewing it on the two college channels will learn how Kal got Cyndi Lauper to train a WWF wrestling champion; how he helped Bruce Springsteen figure out how to write his first smash hit; and how, in just one appearance on the “Today Show”, he predicted and pushed “Angel of the Morning” to the top of the charts. Find out what it takes to have the biggest artists in the world credit you for their chart-topping successes and gold and platinum album sales. He’s the man who picks
State Board of Education Considers Changes To Graduation Requirements www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
respond to the multi-alarm blaze until after the walls collapsed. "He should have been there directing the fire fight and insuring his men did not operate out of safe zones long before the walls collapsed." Gault also laid blame on
The State Board of Education has unanimously voted to consider amending several regulations regarding highschool graduation requirements. The most significant of these proposed changes would be the successful completion of the Keystone Exams as a requirement for high school graduation. The Keystone Exams are rigorous, end-of-course assessments. “We must increase the rigor of our standards and assessments to ensure students are prepared for postsecondary success, whether that
is in college or entering the workforce,” Secretary of Education Ron Tomalis said. “With support from Sen. Jeffrey Piccola (R-Dauphin), who serves on the Board of Education and has spearheaded this initiative in the Senate, we are taking steps to ensure Pennsylvania students graduate high school with the knowledge necessary to be successful.” The proposed changes in the Keystone Exam requirements will expect students graduating in 2017 to show proficiency in Algebra I, Biology and Literature. Two years later, graduates would
also be required to show proficiency in Composition. In 2020, graduates would be required to also show proficiency in Civics And Government exams. Additionally, this proposal provides for the development of five additional Keystone Exams for voluntary use in the subjects of Geometry, Chemistry, Algebra II, US and World History. “This is the first step in ensuring that a high-school diploma will be meaningful and consistent throughout the state,” said State Board of Education Chairman Larry Wittig.
the “monster gorilla hits”, he says often on radio and television appearances. Both the Kal & Lucille Rudman Institute for Entertainment Industry Studies (Drexel University) and the Kal & Lucille Rudman Media Production Center (Temple University), made possible through the generosity of Kal & Lucille and their foundation, have opened new career experiences for thousands of students. The Rudmans presence can be felt throughout Philadelphia and the region. They have benefitted students at Drexel University, Temple University, University of the
KAL & LUCILLE Rudman were honored by Temple and Drexel University for their many contributions to their schools of ommunication. Arts and the Community Col- serving groups. The Rudlege of Philadelphia; Philadel- mans’ passion for the city of phia Police and Fire Depts. Philadelphia is an inspiration and Camden’s Creative Arts to countless young people, Morgan Village Academy first responders and musicians Choir and dozens of other de- alike.
City Council Hosts Senior Prom
CITY COUNCIL hosted 2nd annual senior prom at Convention Hall. From left are James Martin, Belle Martin, Terry Wilson, Pepper Earl, Councilman Bill Greenlee, Elaine Williams and Tahlulla Harrison. Photos by Donald Terry
CLEA FENNELL shares a moment with hosts Councilman Bill Greenlee and Council President Darrell Clarke.
AMONG SPONSORS were Jabbar Fairweather and Adeyinka Adebamirs of Alpine Group.
ENJOYING SENIORS PROM at Convention Hall, hosted by City Council leadership, were Kevin Henderson, Barbara Coleman, Joyce Alexander, Anna Henderson and, seated, Darece Williford and Gloria Morgan.
sold regardless of price. The first five lots will also be sold at absolute auction. Property Information Packages, a list of the properties, and an interactive map are posted on maxspann.com. Max Spann is holding 15minute auction seminars continuously from noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Jun. 7 and Tuesday, Jun. 19. The seminar will provide an overview of how to buy at auction, property location review, and property information package. “I encourage interested
ENJOYING festivities at State Sen. Michael Stack’s fundraiser sponsored by Tioga Terminal operator Bob Paliama are Pilots Association President CAPTAIN Andy Economou, Ray Heinzelman and Jim Roche, State Sen. Joe Loeper and Stanley Lulewicz are welcomed by State Sen. Dennis Rochford, president of Maritime Michael Stack and host Bob Palaima. Exchange.
Asian Screenings
STATE SEN. Michael Stack and Bob Palaima check out crowd who turned out to show their support at Spazzo in Olde City.
SEPTA Begins ‘Stop Hunger’ Food Drive
SEPTA’s annual “Stop Hunger At Your Station” food drive kicked off with a pep rally at The Porch at 30th Street Station yesterday. SEPTA and Philabundance employees are promoting the drive with a specially wrapped SEPTA bus. In 2011, SEPTA customers and employees collected almost 17.8 tons of food to benefit Philabundance. During this year’s twoweek “Stop Hunger at Your Station” food drive, the Authority will collect donations for Philabundance’s “Summer Meals Campaign” to help provide food for children no longer receiving the free and reduced-cost meals they get during the school year.
Obesity Brings Pains All Over We all know obesity is harmful to our health, but a new study shows those extra pounds can actually cause pain in various parts of the body. Researchers at Stony Brook University found that heaviest individuals report the highest rates of pain. That’s because excessive weight puts pressure on the joints, causing back ache and osteoarthritis. These findings confirm the results of an earlier study, carried out at University of California, University of Washington, and the Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, which reported the link between obesity and chronic pain. It also listed headaches, fibromyalgia, ab-
dominal pain, and other widespread aches as a result of the extra load. “The message here is clear: obesity is not only a risk factor for serious illnesses like heart disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes, but it can also lead to chronic pain,” says Phil Nicolaou, owner of Chester Co. Adventure Boot Camp in Kennett Square, Pa. “Relieving the pain is of course important, but what’s even more crucial is treating the underlying cause – obesity.” The most effective way to lose weight is still the most “common-sense” one, Nicolaou says: a healthy, whole-foods, calorie-restricted diet in combination with regular exercise.
“Losing weight often results in partial or complete pain relief, not to mention all the other health benefits,” he notes. However, he suggests people who have obesity-related medical conditions should consult their health-care providers before starting a diet and an exercise program. Once the green light is given, “start exercising slowly and gently, increasing the duration and intensity level of your workouts as you become more comfortable and adept,” Nicolaou says. Nicolaou notes certain routines, such as interval training, are particularly effective. “If you keep at it, you will see amazing results
as far as weight loss and fat reduction is concerned,” he says. He also recommends flexibility training, which is especially beneficial in relieving chronic pain and decreasing muscular tension, while strengthening joints, tendons and ligaments so they become less prone to injury. “Don’t wait until those extra pounds you carry around cause you widespread discomfort,” Nicolaou says. “And better yet, maintain healthy weight throughout life to prevent this kind of problem from arising in the first place. To paraphrase the saying: no gain, no pain!”
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Photo by Martin Regusters/Leaping Lion Photography
Dougherty, Sean Dougherty and Nicolette Gadler. Photo by Maria Merlino
Tioga Pier's Bob Palaima Hosts Sen. Stack
MEDICAL RECORD CHI DANG, right, community-relations representative at Health Partners, talks attendees during the sixth annual Asian-Pacific American Festival on May 19. Health Partners participated in event, offering blood pressure and BMI screenings to local residents. More than 5,000 attended the festival in Franklin Square Park to celebrate Asian culture and traditions.
bidders to come to one of the seminars to learn how easy it is to buy at auction,” Dann said. To learn more about the auction, call 1 (888) 299-1438 or visit maxspann.com to obtain a property information package and a complete list of properties and interactive map. For more information about Max Spann’s auctions, visit maxspann.com, or follow Max Spann on Face- JUDGE Kevin M. Dougherty is presented Pinnacle Award by Millay Club at its 10th annual Pinnacle book/MaxSpann and Awards Gala on May 26 at Bellevue Hotel. Judge Dougherty, who also celebrated his 50th birthday, Twitter/MaxSpann. was joined by family members: John Dougherty Sr., Maureen Dougherty, Katie Dougherty, John J.
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Single-family homes and buildable lots scattered throughout Philadelphia are guaranteed to be sold regardless of price at a real-estate auction to be held in June. Max Spann Real Estate & Auction Co. has scheduled the auction of 53 Philadelphia properties on Wednesday, Jun. 27 at 1 p.m. at First District Plaza, 3801 Market Street. The offering comes on the heels of two Max Spann auctions, where 500 properties owned by the Philadelphia Housing Authority were sold to homebuyers as well as investors. The auctions, held in November and December last year, provided opportunities for buyers to invest at attractive prices. “For those who are interested in investing in Philadelphia’s future and missed our last auctions in Philadelphia, this is an opportunity that should not be passed up,” said Bob Dann, executive VP and COO. “We have a variety of different neighborhoods and have homes that are ready to rent or already leased.” The auction features 43 single-family homes and 10 buildable lots. The first 22 single-family homes selected will be sold at absolute auction, meaning they will be
Dougherty Family Celebrates Judge’s Pinnacle Award
Page 11
Spann to Auction 53 Properties June 27 At Absolute Auction
Page 12 The Public Record • May 31, 2012 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Last Wednesday, STATE REP. JOHN TAYLOR held a fundraiser at the Quaker City Yacht Club. Attendees included the usual cast of characters including Yacht Club member and WARD LEADER BILL PETTIGREW. Twenty-plus ward leaders were missing, as they were at a meeting at St Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church in Northern Liberties. The group at St Michael’s included the ward leaders on the insurgent side of the party, who were there to participate in an election for the vacant position of chairman of Republican City Committee. The Meehan faction of the party contends VITO CANUSO is the Chairman. The Republican Party of Pennsylvania and the insurgent arm of the Philadelphia party disagree. PAGOP refused to seat Canuso as member of the state Committee owing to election irregularities, leading it to conclude the county party did not organize in 2010. The insurgents have tried to work with Meehan to find an acceptable chairman. However, after lengthy negotiations, WARD LEADER MIKE CIBIK, who was the insurgent’s candidate for Vice Chairman in the 2010 election, decided Meehan was not negotiating in good faith and called for an election at which RICK HELLBERG was elected RCC Chairman. Last Thursday, BOB BARILLI held a fundraiser for the 63rd Ward at Randi’s. The event was well attended. Barilli’s boss COUNCILMAN BRIAN O’NEILL showed up. Also in attendance were other ward leaders, including WALT VOGLER, BILL IVERS, MATT WOLFE and Mike Cibik. Wolfe and Cibik were cordially received by many attendees, most of whom were not supportive the (Cont. Page 17)
When I’m not making my rounds for “Out and About” and seeing who is doing what to whom in the dog-eat-dog world of politics, I’m teaching Art and Media at an accelerated high-school program in Southwest Philadelphia. I got the job through the Black Women In Sport Foundation. Because the School District of Philadelphia’s finances are what can be charitably called a Hot Ghetto Mess these days, nonprofits like BWSF have to pick up the slack for such things as art and physical education/health in schools these days, especially in programs like mine. The kids I teach have been referred to this program because they’ve been kicked out of every other school due to fighting, cutting class, fighting and cutting class; you get what I mean. They’re largely from the area surrounding the school, which is a dark, foreboding kind of place even in the daytime. There’s a printing plant next door to the school and trash-strewn streets, battered houses, and the remnants of streetcorner pharmacy throughout. Many of them have equally rough stories: stories of foster care, parents on drugs, unplanned pregnancies, hustling for a job, friends and family who have died from gunshot wounds and plain, simple, neglect. And that doesn’t even count the kids who get high on Percoset and, literally, nod off in class. I’ve become immune to some of it, mostly because the kids try and use it as an excuse to get out of doing their work. Many of my colleagues have told me the kids aren’t above using their circumstances to make you feel guilty about making them adhere to your deadlines. (Cont. Page 16)
YOUR A.V.I. REAL-ESTATE TAX INCREASE – City Council must exercise due diligence to ensure sales dating back to 2006 are NOT USED by the City to determine actual value of your home. Only the most recent three years MUST be used. Earlier times were A BOOM REALESTATE MARKET, and would mean higher taxes for you. We are in a flat market, unlikely to see a boom soon. City Council WILL GET THE BLAME if AVI is not implemented correctly. Not the Mayor!! City Controller Alan BUTKOVITZ should look into this matter.... A recent article in the daily press mentioned the AVI effect on city neighborhoods. But it was as if upscale South Philly and the Northeast did not exist??? Where was that info? AVI could HIT THEM HARD. The Councilman who said 75% OF PHILLY PROPERTIES should be lowered is wrong. There is NO WINDFALL for some councilmanic districts. This assertion may be rumored to get approval from some Council Members who “may not” be effected. Council MUST stand as one on AVI. Did I read IT RIGHT? A proposed Council ordinance allows the Mayor to set the TAX RATE?? Why would COUNCIL give up their authority? DON’T DO IT.... The website’s HANDY-DANDY real-estate computation spreadsheet would work better if we knew the future tax rate. AVERSION to human voice contact. On how many websites have you clicked “Contact Us” and found an email address to make “contact?” No phone number? And in government departments it is often “Call your Councilman, State Representative or Congressman” when they hide from you behind email. You deserve an issue resolved in a timely manner.... A NEW NOTICE is going out from 9th & Filbert which says “You give us no choice” and “We have hired a law firm to initiate action on accounts with unpaid tickets.” The notice seems to say the taxpayer is wrong (?). They “have no choice.” Does this oppose the presumption of innocence – you are guilty until found guilty? Is this the letter the City ADJUDICATION BRANCH agreed to send in legislation passed by Councilman Bill GREENLEE? If so, they must give a specific time to pay. In the past, they would just double the amount due. The nameless, faceless law firm not mentioned – who are they? GWEN COLLINS, powerful 16th Ward Committeeperson, continues educational programs with her email on Social Security. Marie BEREN, constituent-service aide for Councilman SQUILLA, did a fine job on educating Steve LAUER in that field.... The call for the Fire Com(Cont. Page 18)
Yo! Here we go again with the questions and answers of as exam in which a student was given 0% by his professor. I would have given him 100% for I think that his answers are correct. What do you think? Q1. In which battle did Napoleon die? A. During his last battle. Q2. Where was the Declaration of Independence signed? A. At the bottom of the page. Q3. River Ravi flows in which state? A. In a liquid state. Q4. What is the main reason for divorce? A. Marriage. Q5. What is the main reason for failure? A. Answering the questions incorrectly on exams. Q6. What can you never eat for breakfast? A. Lunch, dinner or even a midnight snack. Q7. What looks like half an apple? A. The other half of that apple. Q8. If you throw a red stone into the blue sea what will it become? A. It will still be a red stone but now will be wet. Q9. How can a man go eight days without sleeping? A. No problem at all, he just goes to sleep at night. Q10. How can you lift an elephant with one hand? A. First you must find an elephant that has only one hand. Q11. If you had three apples and four oranges in one hand and four apples and three oranges in other hand, what would you have? A. Very large hands to hold all that fruit. Q12. If it took eight men 10 hours to build a 10-foot-high brick wall, how long will it take four men to build it? A. No time at all; the wall is already built. Q13. How can you drop a raw egg onto a concrete floor without cracking it? A. Any way you want and from any height – concrete floors are very hard to crack. Q14. John’s father had four children – Mary, Alice, and Betty. What was the name of his fourth child? A. John, of course. Q 15. If you were the professor what score would you have given this student? A. ___
Politically agile STATE SEN. JOHN RAFFERTY continues to mend from his recent knee injury. The strong supporter of the Fraternal Order of Police was in route to the Fallen Police Officers Memorial Ceremony when he stepped on a slippery surface and injured his knee. Rafferty had surgery and all signs are that he will have a complete recovery and will be politically as well as physically agile. The Bridesburg Memorial Day Parade was once again a successful event. Large crowds turned out and the parade consisted of war heroes, high-school bands and mummers. STATE SEN. MIKE STACK marched along with COUNCILMAN BOB HENON. Both the Senator and the Councilman remarked after the parade how the people of Bridesburg are consistently friendly and supportive of them as individuals and as politicians. It is rare these days for politicians to receive only positive reactions from their constituents. Bridesburg is a special place. The master of ceremonies for the parade was local celebrity, BOB KELLY. Bob is a renowned traffic reporter for CBS 3 and a Bridesburg kid. Kelly is also active on the legislative front. He is currently advocating for legislation that protects on-camera talent from non-compete agreements. Management often holds the heavy upper hand against on-camera talent. They can fire them and prevent them from seeking other employment in the same media market. Former anchorwoman ALYCIA LANE is currently suing CBS 3 over such unfair business practices. Stack is currently the main sponsor of the Broadcast Employee Free Market Act and is working to push it through the Senate Labor Committee chaired by STATE SEN. JOHN GORDNER. Interestingly, the Pennsylvania Senate consists of several Senators with family members in show business. This may be one of the rare instances where Republicans side with the workers against management. MICHAEL BLICHASZ, a leader in the Polish American community, also marched in the Bridesburg Memorial Day Parade. He continues to be a very strong advocate for Polish American and United Social Services, which helps thousands of Philadelphians remain selfsufficient. They connect people of various ethnicities to programs that help people find jobs. Blichasz has never met tougher resistance than under the current Corbett Administration. (Cont. Page 17)
when Gleason sanctioned the civil war. Long-time ward leaders loyal to Canuso and Meehan still lead some wards with sizeable Republican registrants. They are for the most part located in the Kensington and Northeast sections of the city, with exceptions being the 22nd in Roxborough and the 26th in South Philadelphia. Center City, West and North Philadelphia are strongholds of the State-aligned group. For the rival factions, hardcore ward-committee backing may add up to about 20 each. In the middle are influential ward leaders like Councilman Denny O’Brien in the Northeast and David Oh in the Southwest, as well as countless ordinary voters who don’t follow the leadership disputes but would simply like to see their party pull together as one, and try to win elections against Democrats instead of (Cont. Page 14)
STATE-SPONSORED Republican ward leaders declared their reorganization meeting has successfully replaced Republican City Committee’s leadership by Chair Vito Canuso. They elected Rich Hellberg, former Republican Congressional candidate, as new RCC chair.
TALLYING votes were attorneys Matthew Wolfe and Michael Cibik.
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
(Cont. From Page 5) ship. He was happy to fund money and patronage, with Joe DeFelice becoming the newly created Philadelphia Republican State Committee chapter head. They were also successful in having Vito Canuso no longer recognized as the Republican Philadelphia County Chair. Meehan’s faction had given them the opening the dissidents needed by submitting numerous clumsy petitions and petition challenges, many of which showed evidences of fraud. The old guard also staged ward-committee elections with shaky procedures in an effort to shut out the opposition. The evidence was enough to disqualify Canuso’s election as RCC chair; so Philadelphia, in the eyes of the State Party, has had no chair since 2011. A look at the sides remains basically the same as it was
Page 13
City GOP Begins Waging Civil War
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Page 14 The Public Record • May 31, 2012 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
GOP Sides Declared
REPRESENTING State GOP version of new Republican City Committee is former Republican congressional candidate Rich Hellberg, whom group elected to fill vacancy created when Chairman Vito Canuso’s election was voided by State GOP.
(Cont. From Page 13) against fellow Republicans. Ward leaders of both factions have not improved the total Republican registration picture in this city. It remains at 128,970. Registration reports show, since last November until this week, only 1,615 voters have registered Republican. Divide that figure into 69 wards and you can see little or no progress has been made in getting Republican registrations, though both sides are talking up a good game. In the meantime, Philadelphia now has two separate leaderships for its RCC. The state-affiliated leaders won their vote by a close reading of party bylaws. They had challenged the elections of 16 ward leaders, among them
such old-guard stalwarts as Skip Hendrie (9th), Walt Vogler, Jr. (21st), Joe Samuel (24th), State Rep. John Taylor (25th), Jim Dintino (26th), Agnes Tilley (35th), Nick Marrandino (39th), Len Amodei (53rd), Al Taubenberger (56th) and Bill Ivers (61st). Until these contests have been adjudicated, Wolfe, an attorney, said these leaders were ineligible to vote. Neutral observers indicate these challenges were based on the fact the elections might have disregarded normal protocols, since committees would normally waive the need to go through them for these longtime leaders. Eleven wards do not have duly elected leaders, say the State Party loyalists. These are the 7th, 13th, 33rd, 36th, 38th, 44th, 47th, 49th, 60th and 64th. In addition, they assert, three wards have no organization at all: the 10th, 19th and 37th. In three wards, the state faction recognizes different ward leaders than does the Meehan faction. It seated Kelly as leader of the 22nd Ward in the Northwest, where the Meehan faction recognizes Calvin Tucker. It also allowed Pete Wirs to vote as leader of Germantown’s 59th Ward where the Meehan organization recognizes Joe Messa. For the Far Northeast’s 58th Ward, Phil Innamorato was allowed to vote for Hellberg; the Meehan faction recognizes Tom Matkowski as that ward’s leader. If peace is not brokered between these dueling leaderships, steps will proceed in court to determine control of RCC’s assets (such as they are) and legal privileges. The outcome may depend on which legal venue the case winds up in – Philadelphia Common Pleas Court or Commonwealth Court. How fast the wheels of justice spin is another crucial factor. With the fall campaign not far off, it’s hard to see how Republicans can run an effective voter-turnout program effort in this city if its leaders are concentrating on a game of musical chairs instead.
THIS YEAR’S Golf Classic event EVENT ORGANIZERS Dana was dedicated to long-time labor Brady and Jody Blackman were leader James Harper, Sr., who pleased hot weather did not deter passed away on Dec. 22, 2011. golfers.
LEADING SCOREBOARD as this picture was taken are Marcus Hall, Roc Irey, Sam Staten, Sr. and Daniel Woodall.
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
GOLFER Joey Hass III and Jessica Kelly greet charity golfers at Hole in One Challenges golfers during 13th annual charity golf classic in memory of James Harper which LABORERS DISTRICT COUNraises funds for Qa’id Staten Me- CIL’s Sam Staten, Sr. tees off at 9th hole during Labor Golf Classic. morial Schoilarship fund.
Page 15
Teeing Off For Qa’id Staten Memorial Scholarship Fund
James Back In His Old Haunts
BELMONT MANSION, one of early historic stops on Underground Railroad, gets underway with groundbreaking. Shoveling dirt were City, State and Council leaders, including Mayor Michael Nutter, Sen. LeAnna Washington, State Rep. Vanessa Brown, Audrey Johnson Thornton and Councilman Curtis Jones. Site is being expanded with new banquet hall. Photo by Donald Terry
IT WAS like old times when State Rep. Harold James was welcomed back to his 186th Legislative Dist. seat in General Assembly as family, friends and fellow Reps showed up for this congratulatory photo. He’ll serve out unfinished term until Dec. 31. Photos by Donald Terry
CONGRATULATING State Rep. Harold James in House Chamber were colleagues Vanessa Brown, Dwight Evans, Cherelle Parker, and newly sworn-in member for a special term Gary Williams.
FORMER President of City Council Anna Verna, 3rd from left, didn’t want to miss swearing-in of her ward’s State Rep. Harold James. Joining them at swearing-in festivities were State Reps. Mark Cohen, Ron Waters, Bill Patton and Mike Hanna, Sr.
Disabled Kids Tag Fish Raising Funds for Teen Inc. Hosting Korean Delegation
STATE REP MIKE McGeehan, a leading state environmentalist, hosted kids from SPIN, (Special People in the N.E.) in fish-tag event at Frankford Arsenal Delaware River boat launch. State Fish & Game Commission demonstrated their skill at this vital tracking effort. Commissioner Glade Photo by Joe Stivala E. Squires is seen to right of McGeehan.
NINTH WARD Democrat Leader John O’Connell cohosted fundraiser for Teen Inc.; teen volunteers who will travel to Guatemala this summer to help build housing for needy. Event was held in Bacio’s Italian Restaurant on Lincoln Photo by Joe Stivala Drive.
COUNCILMAN DAVID OH hosted Korean delegation to this city. He greets Mayor Song and Korean Assemblyman Kim at City Hall, while pushing city as international port destination.
Milton On The Move Boyle Bros. Go Green
STATE REPS. Brendan and Kevin Boyle attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for opening of a greenhouse located at the Klein JCC. Center’s JCC Catered meals program currently delivers frozen, microwavable dinners for seniors and others in need. New greenhouse will now allow for fresh fruits and vegetables to be incorporated into those meals.
COUNCILMAN David Oh and Mayor Song toured Penn’s campus and other sites in city.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
URGING grassroots support for anti-voter ID law, former State Sen. Milton Street hosts meeting in N. Phila. where bill “has major impact on denying voters.” With Milton, from left, are Kera Anderson, Milton Street, Jr. and Kyle Anderson.
Michael P. Kelly, PHA administrative receiver/Executive Director and Bob Nelson, President and CEO of Phila. Opportunities Industrialization Centers, met to discuss ways to improve lives of low-income residents. OIC is one of PHA’s Community Partners, training residents for jobs in hospitality industry. Nelson chairs City’s Jobs Commission, which helps City and its partners create and preserve private-sector jobs.
Page 16 The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Out-About (Cont. From Page 12) But on Tuesday morning as I got ready to start teaching my class, one of my students came in, plopped himself in a chair, and stared off into space. I asked him what was wrong. “My friend got shot in the head last night,” he said. Because I’ve been trained to not completely trust what my students tell me, I looked on Philly.com to see if it made the paper. Because I know that certain things al-
ways make the paper, I figured that if this did indeed happen, I’d be able to read all about it. I did. Unfortunately, this kid was one of four shootings that happened around the city in a 45-minute period on Monday night. A man and a woman sitting on the porch in North Philadelphia; another man minding his own business in another section of North Philadelphia…. And in the middle, the friend of my student in Southwest; coming home from a cookout, his plate of food on the sidewalk next to where he went down. According to an-
other one of my students who was also a friend, he was headed for a prom this Friday. He wasn’t someone who, as my kids would put it, lived that life. But it doesn’t seem like it matters much what kind of life you lead in the City of Brotherly Love and Put the Damned Gun Down these days. Over the years I’ve written about the violent craziness that seems to have settled over the place I call home and how it seems as if it’s determined to hang around. I’ve written about kids getting shot, parents getting shot, parents and
kids getting shot. But this is the first time that a kid getting shot has actually made me angry enough to cry; not because I knew this kid, but because I could see the pain in the faces of those who did. Kids aren’t supposed to feel that kind of pain. Granted, my kids are a little stronger than most because they’ve already been through hell. But while many of them make me want to put them in a headlock from time to time, they’re still just kids in the end. And they’re broken. In some cases, irretrievably so
UT O B A ASK ULL OUR F R A 30 YE TEE AN GUAR
need for you to be here in school. You can’t do that if you do something stupid.” Whether or not he listened remains to be seen.
with pieces of their broken lives, broken hearts and broken spirits strewn all over the place. We need to do better by them. We need to get serious about making their streets safer; making their lives safer; making things safer for their friends. Because if we don’t get real serious about this, we’re going to send a legion of truly broken people and the children they create in their pursuit of solace out into the world to continue a cycle of victimization. Which leads me back to my grieving student. His classmates and he were having a conversation regarding the loss of his friend. It led to his saying he was going to make sure he didn’t meet that kind of fate. While he pledged to stay off the block, he also said he had no problem getting someone before they got him. I asked him not to do anything stupid. “I need you to be in class tomorrow,” I said. “I
Council Sets Aside Day For Homeless Vets
Philadelphia City Council has issued a Proclamation designating Nov. 15 as Philadelphia Homeless Veteran’s Remembrance Day. This proclamation is the result of an effort by a group of Philadelphia veterans to have a day set aside where the city of Philadelphia and its residents could remember. One of the initiators, Joe Eastman, said, “This will acknowledge and reflect upon the plight and conditions many of our less-fortunate veteran brothers and sisters find themselves in each day as they walk the streets of this city seeking housing, food and other basic living essentials.” Attorneys are both board certified by the American Bankruptcy Certification Board.
LICE N INSU SED REGI RED STER FREE ED E S ROO FIN TIMAT
Chapters 7/13 & Stop foreclosures, creditors harassments, lawsuits, garnishments, and sheriff sales.
We are a debt-relief agency
E RTIF S ICAT E
G CE
1500 Walnut Street • Suite 900 Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-735-1060
CITY WIDE SERVICE ALL TYPES OF
ROOFING U
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
G
5 197
37tehrsary iv
Ann
2 201
• New Roofs • Repairs • Hot Asphalt • Rubber & Modified Systems • Shingles • Slate & Tile • Skylights • Siding • Gutters & Downspouts
EMER GEN REPA CY I 24 HO RS UR A DAY S
12260 Townsend Road
215-464-6425
Gateway Electrical & Fire Alarm Specialist, Inc. Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Anthony Armando
• Residential • Commercial • Industrial ON ROOFIN NI
ccpc@ccpclaw.com
215-725-8815
FAX # 215-624-9263 www.unionroofing.net WE DO OUR OWN WORK • NO SUBCONTRACTORS
2601 South Hutchinson St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (P) 215-271-1282 (F) 215-271-6127 (C) 215-778-6554
Gatewayelectricinc@verizon.net www.gatewayelectricinc.com
City Hall (Cont. From Page 12) Speaking of GOV. TOM CORBETT, many of his staunch Republican supporters have expressed dismay with his leadership. Business interests and big contributors alike have found Corbett’s handsoff approach unsuitable for the challenges in the current political arena. Local Democrats are baffled by the behavior of busi-
We Invite You To Capitalize On The 20 Years Of Experience And Skill Of Attorney
Deborah M. Truscello Practice Areas: Workers Compensation Divorce and Family Law Personal Injury Social Security Disability www.TruscelloLaw.com 206 West State Street Media PA 19063
610-892-4940
Aqua America, Tastykake and Independence Blue Cross have been supported and protected by Democratic officials for decades. They have benefited from tax breaks and KOZs, all in the name of supporting local industry. For these business leaders to show such disregard for their own local officials shows how far Philadelphia’s influence has fallen.
LAW OFFICE OF
MICHAEL P.
BOYLE SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY, SSI, VETERANS’ BENEFITS
No Fee Unless You Win
215-546-7035 123 S. Broad St. Ste. 2140 Philadelphia, PA 19109 michaelboylelaw.com
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Call and schedule a free initial consultation.
ness leaders NICK DeBENEDICTIS of Aqua America and DENIS O’BRIEN of PECO. The two captains of industry are hosting a fundraiser for House MAJORITY LEADER MIKE TURZAI. Turzai is from Western Pennsylvania and out of touch with the issues important to the people of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Companies such as PECO,
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
(Cont. From Page 12) election of Hellberg. In this elephant’s opinion, their cordial reception owing in part to the fact they were paying guests. Tickets were $50 per person. Also, some ward leaders who voted for Meehan’s slate of RCC officers in 2010 may have now concluded the RCC needs new leadership. A new RCC chair handpicked by Meehan is not only unacceptable to the insurgents, but probably will not be acceptable to many of the old guard. Many of the old guard did not approve of last Wednesday’s election, however. They take issue with the insurgents’ claim that only 35 of the 60plus ward leaders were eligi-
cials, one would think they would want to be in compliance with state election law. Also, the remedy to these contests is not onerous. All they needed to do was to tack on a reelection to the agenda of a ward meeting to which they invited all committeepersons, including the write-ins. This elephant sees this technicality akin to the fellow driving with an expired license because he failed to supply PennDOT with a piece of information that he thought irrelevant. Thus the State declined to send him a new license. He explained his predicament to the police officer who stopped him for a minor traffic violation. The officer agreed the State’s information requested was not material to a person’s ability to drive. But guess what? He still got a ticket for driving without a valid license.
Page 17
Elephant
ble to vote. At the election meeting last Wednesday, Wolfe, who ran the meeting, noted which wards could not vote owing to vacancies and those that could not do so as the ward leader was under contest. Essentially, all of the contests stem from evidence they did not invite and/or allow to vote all duly elected committeepersons when the wards organized in 2010. Meehan had instructed the leaders not to acknowledge committeemen that were elected by write-in with less than 10 votes. In many cases, the ward leaders had more than sufficient votes to be elected even if the writein had been included. These ward leaders decided the contests were based on a mere technicality. As a number of these leaders under contest are attorneys, government employees and/or elected offi-
Good Credit • Bad Credit No Credit • Don’t Sweat it!
Walking The Beat (Cont. From Page 12) missioner and two others to resign was off key. These men are also ordinary firemen. Why did they not ask the Mayor to resign? Were cutbacks not cited? Lawrence AMAKER was selected as Paramedic of the Year. The award was presented in Fireman’s Hall. These medics work hard and have local perspective. They earn their pay and then
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Page 18
Pacifico Ford
some..... Students at Mastery Charter School designed THE NEAT FIRE PREVENTION SIGN on Engine 41, Ladder 24, medic 23 Firehouse on N. 61 st Street. Great! THE IDEA OF DUMPING folks in Atlantic City – a lot of bus tickets used to be issued for the homeless. Destination: Philadelphia.... CONGRATS: Mike BRADLEY, St. Patrick’s Observance Association Parade Director, presented the Mary Theresa Dougherty Award to the Kathy Maddigin Irish Dancers. On hand was John DOUGHERTY; the award is named for his sainted Mom!
6700 Essington Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19153 ______________________ 215.492.1700 www.pacificocars.com Rocky has been in the auto business since 1994. He has been recognized by Ford Motor Company with numerous achievements including Master Certified in car and trucks. He’ll use his experience to help you maximize your benefits and reduce your expenses!
2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134
Deal of A Lifetime Eliminate Winter Blues
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
PAINT SERVICE STARTING AT . . .
95
$129.
MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF ESTIMATE. HURRY...OFFER EXPIRES June 30, 2012
NEW LOCATION PHILA. AIRPORT AUTO MALL • 215-365-8300
6717 Essington Ave. Commercial vehicles by estimate. Body work, rust repair, and stripping of old paint extra. Not valid with any other offer. MAACO® Auto Painting & Bodyworks centers are independent franchises of MAACO® Enterprises, Inc. Prices, hours and services may vary.
Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937
State Environmental Secretary Michael KRANCER’s remarks on the Delaware Governor’s reluctance to lift the oil-drilling moratorium was way off the beam. Say, Sec, what are you doing about cleaning up some problems in the Susquehanna River?... STATE REP Louise BISHOP’s HB 451 is good law on fathers’ adoption rights. The use of telemedicine is being started by the State Welfare Dept. State Rep. Mark COHEN applauds this move; it is a big cost-cutter.... STATE SEN. LeANNA WASHINGTON is promoting the easy way to obtain Voter ID for the General Election. Get yours now – don’t be cheated of your right to vote! THE TURMOIL in the City Commissioners’ Office is boiling! The thing to remember is ALL COMMISSIONERS were elected in their own right. Chairperson Stephanie Singer is not their boss. And why not leave THOSE POOR 90-day job applicants alone! They work
for peanuts, in a unit with big $$ guaranteed paychecks. U.S.S. OLYMPIA transfer. The review panel has extended the date for applicants. The ship needs a good home. Don’t let a unique vessel be sunk as a Navy target…. VETERANS: The Veterans’ Multi Service Center has changed the date of its popular DU WOP FESTIVAL to Sep. 9 in Penn’s Landing. So get back from the shore and drop in, and support the fine programs at the Center!! LEAN FUNDS IN STATE CAPITOLS should be coming to an end. Fifty states are set to end the FY with more money than they thought. More taxes from spending as the economy improves, and house prices are more and more stable to beef up property taxes. So much for a Republican issue....Would you believe the GOP reply to the President’s Memorial Day message honoring the military, had to bring in the economy? YOU DO NOT MIX politics with our troops.
surface mining equipment to diagnose problems, position it for repairs to be made and test operate after making repairs. *Current CDL Class-B license with air brake is preferred or willingness to obtain. *Conduct all work activities in compliance with Federal and State coal mining laws and Company policies, safety procedures, rules and regulations. *Service truck and some tools provided. *Day shift schedule with some Saturday work required. *Competitive wage based on experience and bonus opportunity. *Full benefits package with no employee contribution. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply to: AMFIRE Mining, One Energy Place, Latrobe, PA 15650 Attn: Human Resources OR Fax your resume to (724)5322070. EOE/AA/Drug Free Workplace Over 18? Seeking 1st Phenomenal Opportunity to Earn Big $$$? Travel With Young Successful Business Group. No Experience Necessary. Paid Training. Transportation/Lodging Provided. 1-877646-5050. HELP WANTED DRIVER Drivers - CDL-A DRIVERS
NEEDED! Up to $3,000 SignOn Bonus for Qualified Drivers! 6 mo OTR exp. req'd. CALL OR APPLY ONLINE 877-521-5775 www.USATRUCK.jobs Drivers - Flexible hometime. Full or Part-time. Modern Trucks. Local Orientation. Quarterly Safety Bonus. Single Source Dispatch. Requires 3 months recent experience. 800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com AVERITT Has a Great Opportunity for CDL-A Drivers! Home EVERY Week/Full Benefits! 4Months T/T Experience Required. Apply Now!
Tag-Heuer aquaracer men's watch - stainless, mint condition $600.
215-920-0929 610-667-4829
We Buy Junk Cars
$300 to $400
888-362-8608 Visit AVERITTcareers.com Equal Opportunity Employer NEW TO TRUCKING? Your new career starts now! *$0 Tuition Cost *No Credit Check *Great Pay & Benefits. Short employment commitment required. Call: (866)447-0377 www.joinCRST.com CLASS A DRIVERS: Regional Up to 42 CPM. Weekly Pay, Benefits, Home Time, Sign ON BONUS, Paid Orientation. 2 Years T/T EXP. 800-524-5051 www.gomcilvaine.com Class-A Team Drivers- Dedicated runs to Morton, IL. $1000/week. $1000 Sign On Bonus. Home Weekly. Consistent Miles/Freight. Day one medical. 866-331-3335. www.drivecrst.com Drivers: HIRING EXPERIENCED/INEXPERIENCED TANKER DRIVERS! Great Benefits and Pay! New Fleet Volvo Tractors! 1 Year OTR Exp. Req. - Tanker Training Available. Call Today: 877882-6537 Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight lanes from Presque Isle, ME, BostonDrivers: CDL-A We know times are tough... that's why Smith Transport is announcing a NEW PAY PACKAGE! smithdrivers.com or 888-247-4037 Drivers: Want a Professional Career? Haul Flatbed/OD Loads for Trinity Logistics Group! Earn $.41-.51cpm! CDL-A w/2yrs Exp. EEO/AA 800-628-3408 www.trinitytrucking.com
Cash Paid Free Towing Same Day Service
Wanted Late Model Cars & Trucks in need of repair. Up to $5,000. in cash. Same day pick-up
215-605-4429
We Buy Junk Cars $350 Cash
* Guaranteed * * Free Towing *
215-809-3855
Land for Sale
cabin, Close access to Oneida Lake -$17,995. "Large River" over 900 ft. 18 acres along fishing/swimming river $49,995. "Timberland Investment" -90 acres deer sanctuary, beautiful timber studs, small creek -$99,995. Over 100 new properties. Call 800-229-7843 Or visit landandcamps.com MISCELLANEOUS AIRLINE CAREERS begin here-Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified-Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-834-9715
Upstate NY Land Sale "Sportsman Bargain" 3 acres w/ cozy
BARRY FISHER
Highest Cash Paid Instantly For Junk Cars No Keys - No Title No Problem!!! Call: 215-715-9316
We Buy Junk Cars Up To $500.00 Cash Guaranteed
267-423-3108
LICENSED ELECTRICIAN Over 42yrs experience low prices, fast service 100-amp Circuit breakers $65+ ceiling fans $25+ • Outlets $6+ AC/WD Lines $10+ lic/ins* FHA/VA Cert
215-927-0234
2001 ford taurus SESfully equipped, brand new pa. state inspection, good tires. $995. down payment $2,995. full price financing to everyone, NO ONE REFUSED!
215-715- 9316
CASH,CASH,CASH!!! WE BUY ANY CARS OR TRUCKS! NEW OR OLD! TOP DOLLAR PAID! WE BUY JUNK CARS! CALL TOLL-FREE 888-823-1339
K & A Auto Salvage Inc. 2160-66 E. Somerset - Phila., PA 19134 215-423-4255 Fax: 215-423-4256 In accordance with chapter 73 of the vehicle Code Authorization of the department of Transportation the Following vehicles is located @ K&A Auto salvage Inc. 2160 E Somerset On June 1, 2012 year 2001 1993 2003 2003 2003 2008 2008 1998 2002 2001 2002 2000 1994 1995 2000 2002 1997 1997 1988 2000
make
Vin
chrysler 1c4gj25311b209120 toyota jt2at86f6p0106753 hyundai knhddn55dx3u101296 ford 1fdse35f33ha3096 dodge 2d4gp44l13r236434 shajm lj4tckpb98j026950 cadilliac 1g6kd54y62u137548 chevolet 1g1nd52m9wy107851 ford 1fafp53u029242372 kia knadc123813080522 hyundai kmhfu45e32166497 ford 1fmyu70x7yua04835 ford 1fmcu24x7ruc90534 chevolet 1gndt13w8sk224484 bmw wbagg8349ydn75643 pontiac 1g2wp52k12f282980 bmw wbadd6323vbw17150 chevolet 1gbkp32y0v3317053 chevolet 1g1fp21f5jl154247 mitsubishi 4a3ac54loye150389
Say You Saw It In The PUBLIC RECORD
AVC# 886529 847370 887536 891934 896781 891935 891554 893371 896765 891527 891526 903381 902493 902494 902492 902488 902502 902501 902500 902499
Get an Insider’s Look at Politics in Philadelphia For $30 a Year, Get Yourself a Weekly Digest of the Activities of State and City Political Leaders and Behind the Scenes Reports. Subscribe to the Public Record Name: __________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ Signature:_________________________________ [ ] Check/MO enclosed [ ] Bill me [ ] Charge My Credit Card: ________________________ Expiration: ______/_______ Visa: [ ] MC: [ ] AX: [ ] Today’s Date: _____________
Cost is $30.00 yearly 1321 S. Broad Street Philadelphia PA 19147
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
"Also Highest Prices Paid for Junk Cars"
Drivers: Route Delivery 1-3 days. Benefits, $57K avg 1st yr., 2nd yr. 62k. New Equipment. CDL-A, 1 yr t/t Exp, Yard Positions also Available. Apply: www.MBMcareers.com 888-567-4860 or 2910 Old Tree Dr. Lancaster.
Lehigh, PA. 800-277-0212 or primeinc.com Company Drivers: $2500 SignOn Bonus! Super Service is hiring solo and team drivers. Great Benefits Package. CDLA required. Students welcome. Call 888-441-9358 or apply online at www.superservicellc.com ATTN FLATBED DRIVERS$1000 SIGN ON BONUS. *Great Hometime *Excellent benefits + bonuses *Up to 47 CPM *2500 miles weekly *$50 tarp pay (888) 691-5705
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
LOTS / ACREAGE Virginia Seaside Lots: Spectacular 3+ acre estate lots in exclusive development on the seaside (the mainland) overlooking Chincoteague Bay, islands and ocean beyond. Gated entrance, caretaker, private paved roads, community pier, pool and club house which includes 2-bedroom guest suites for property owners. Great climate, fishing, clamming and National Seashore beaches nearby. Just 30 miles south of Ocean City, Md. Absolute buy of a lifetime, recent bank sale makes these lots available at 1/3 original price! Priced at only $49,000 to $65,000. For info call (757)824-5284 Email: oceanlandtrust@yahoo.com, pictures on website: www.corbinhall.com HELP WANTED AMFIRE Mining Company, LLC is looking to fill a SURFACE MINE MECHANIC for its Cambria and Somerset Operations. *Seeking experienced mechanic to troubleshoot/perform all routine, scheduled/unscheduled, and preventative maintenance and repairs on heavy surface mine equipment. *The ability to operate
Page 19
Public Record Classifieds: small ADS BIG Deals
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • May 31, 2012
Page 20