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Vol. VI No. 10 (Issue 283)

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March 7, 2013

Papal Premonition?

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DID A LOCAL ARTIST with ties to South Philadelphia have a premonition two years that Pope Benedict would leave his papal office earlier than expected?

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South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897 To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108

P. O. Box 31425• Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax)

The South Philadelphia Public Record • March 7, 2013

Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick

Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti

No Red Loafers

Sylvia Castellanos

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Vice-President: Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella

Board Members John Savarese Mark Rago

by Maria Merlino Pope Benedict XVI’s ruby red loafers have been drawing attention since he entered the Vatican in 2005. A potrait of the retiring Pope, with ties to South Philadelphia, is starting to garner attention.

Portraitist Sylvia Castellanos, 62, spent years perfecting a portrait of Pope Benedict.

Her portrait, however, has

him standing, no red loafers.

Perhaps she had a premonition and unconsciously sensed a turn of events when she painted a 66-inch, almost life-size portrait.

“It’s the biggest painting I’ve ever done. I believe it warranted it. Size matters and determines impact. I had powerful things to say about the man.” As for the omission of the red shoes? “You don’t know if there is a hand guiding you,” Castellanos explains. “You do things at a given time and you never know. There is an invisible hand.” She started the portrait two years ago but wasn’t satisfied. It took another year to complete.

The Vatican announced last week that Benedict will no longer wear the red shoes traditionally worn by popes, which is said to symbolize the blood of the martyrs.

Instead, he will wear a pair of hand-cobbled brown loafers presented to him during a 2012 visit to Mexico.

Pope Benedict’s predecessor, Pope John Paul II, wore brown shoes, which stood out. Though wearing red shoes is a papal tradition, the practice is optional. The tra-

POPE BENEDICT has agreed not to wear red shoes traditionally worn by some Popes but will instead wear brown loafers.

Photo by Andrew Milligan/Reuters

The World’s A Stage A TOE-TAPPING couple find time to dance at Hawthorne Cultural Center, 12th & Catherine Streets, on Tuesday night. Dance classes are available to community every Tuesday evening 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Rory McGlasson.

dition of the Pope wearing red shoes is a custom rooted in ancient Rome. By 476 AD, when Rome fell and the Byzantine Empire was in command, only three people were allowed to officially wear red shoes in the Empire: the Emperor, the Empress and the Pope. Artists were not allowed to depict ordinary people wearing red shoes, only the above-mentioned three and the angels. The iconic red shoes commemorate the blood of martyrdom.

Fire and red are also identified with the Holy Spirit.

Castellanos, whose father was a lawyer, arrived to the United States from her native Cuba as a child. An active portraitist, her painting of Pope John Paul II was on loan for several years to the

equivalent of his “Papal Library”, located in Washington, D.C. After earning a graduate degree from Princeton University, she moved to Washington, D.C. For seven years she combined holding a prestigious position in the Senate with doing commissioned portraits for clients prominent on Capitol Hill.

She has also painted former Council President Anna Verna. A self-taught artist who studied with Danni Dawson, an alumna of Nelson Shanks, she is now associated with The American Academy of the Sacred Arts, 1629 Porter Street.

Sister M. Paula Beierschmitte, President of South Philadelphia’s American Academy of the Sacred Arts is eagerly awaiting the next

Catholic leader. She said, “As His Holiness Benedict XVI, Pope Emeritus, vacates the Petrine office, leaving the chair of Peter to whomever the Holy Spirit directs the conclave of Cardinals to chose, this humble spiritual giant embraces a hidden life of prayer, contemplation and reflection. No longer will he don red shoes each morning.”

Castellanos has painted a number of religious figures and feels there is something very special about their characters. “Many portraitists seek to come through to make subject looks good. I’m not a plastic surgeon -- there is an inner beauty I want to capture.”

The painting is for sale.

Contact Sylvia Castellanos at: www.sylviacastellanos.com.

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 Social Media Director: Rory G. McGlasson Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Out & About Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Columnist: Hon. Charles Hammock CitiLife Editor: Ruth R. Russell Dan Sickman: Veteran Affairs Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Photographers: Harry Leech Kate Clarke Leona Dixon 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 Yousef Maaddi 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.

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The Public Record • March 7, 2013

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 4

Bail Commissioner Wraps Up His Career

by Joe Shaheeli He’s been out of the political circuit, but an active audience participant for over two decades. He couldn’t be active in politics, but there was nothing to stop him from applauding for those he supported.

But now, look for Philadelphia Arraignment Court Magistrate Timothy P. O’Brien finally to become an active participant in the arena of politics. He has officially notified Municipal Court President Judge Marsha N. Neifield he will not seek a sixth term on the court. O’Brien, 50, has finished five consecutive fouryear terms with the court, always reelected with unanimous support from the Board of Judges.

Magistrate O’Brien was appointed in 1992 at the age of 29, one of the youngest members of the arraignment bench.

He quickly established himself as an outspoken and aggressive Commissioner by bringing the public spotlight on the

City’s unpopular and dreaded federal prison cap.

O’Brien testified to packed audiences in City Council of the danger the cap was causing to public safety. He was especially vocal after a cap-released prisoner was charged in the shooting death of Police Officer Danny Boyle. A short while later, federal Judge Norma Shapiro ended the prison cap.

O’Brien made front-page headlines in early 2000 with his unprecedented and gutsy decision to hold a “straw purchaser” defendant without bail. At the time, city streets were inundated with gun violence. Municipal Judge Frank Brady stood behind O’Brien’s decision. Veteran magistrate Bobby Rebstock called O’Brien “one of a kind” and “a very courageous and principled magistrate who called them like he saw them.”

When asked what he will doing next, O’Brien only smiled sheepishly and said, “Stand by.” His first “standby” is here already as

Introducing Judicial Candidates

he hosts a salute to Gov. Tom Corbett at FOP Hall, 11630 Caroline Road, 6-8 p.m. with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a buffet. March 28. Tickets are $250. For info, call Kristie at (267) 235-0905.

Who Else Would A Progressive Choose?

I’d worry if I were Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (D-Philadelphia) planning a run for the Democratic nomination for Governor in the next primary.

Though she topped the straw poll taken at the Pennsylvania Progressive Summit, of those polled, she wound up with just over 37% of the votes, enough to put her at the top.

What is interesting is those polled were asked to name a choice and not asked to pick from a list.

Ranking just behind her were Pennsylvania Treasurer Rob McCord with just over 16% of the vote and former Congressman Joe Sestak with 11.6%. The group was all over the lot

JOHN SABATINA, leader of 56th Ward, hosted party for candidates seeking Traffic Court, Municipal Court and Common Pleas Court judgeships. Sabatina and Committeeman Frank Edge, center, talk with some candidates who attended: Tracey Roman and Mike Fanning for Common Pleas Court; Donna D’Anella for Traffic Court; Joseph Fernandes for Common Pleas; Fred Mari and Brian Mulvey for Photo by Joe Stivala Traffic Court; and Dawn Tancredi and Dan McCaffery for Common Pleas Court.

with other choices.

In the meantime, during a third swing around the State, the reaction State Sen. Mike Stack (D-Northeast) is getting has convinced his supporters more Democratic leaders are finding him to be a gubernatorial candidate who’d be to their liking, though he wears the onerous Philadelphia label.

Guv Reaches Out To Philly Women “Seldom seen” was a good way to describe Gov. Tom Corbett during his first two years in office, at least as far as Philadelphians were concerned. In 2013 this is

STATE SENATOR

LEANNA M. WASHINGTON www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

DISTRICT OFFICE

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

changing, though. The Governor has been scheduling numerous photogenic appearances in town, with more to come.

His latest visit was strategic. He came to the city’s Rape Crisis Center to ballyhoo a 10% increase in funding in his budget proposal – $700,000 – for the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape for services and prevention education.

During his remarks, the Governor also presented a proclamation to Carole Johnson, executive director of WOAR, recognizing the organization for 40 years of

Rep. Rosita

Youngblood District 198th District 310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148

P: 215-849-6426

Rep.Maria P.

Donatucci

D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164

State Senator

Senator Tina

Tartaglione 2nd Dist.

127 W. Susquehanna Ave. 1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19122 Philadelphia, PA 19124

215-291-4653

215-533-0440

State Rep.

Kevin J.

Boyle 172nd Dist.

7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

215-331-2600

State Rep. Cherelle

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!

contributions to victim advocacy and services in the Philadelphia region.

A word to potential Republican primary opponents!

Don’t be too quick to sell out the Governor’s electability stats. However, the Governor has seen his recent poll ratings plummet among women statewide and he is attending to that right now.

Meanwhile, Montco Commissioner Bruce Castor is squeezing the incumbent from the right. He has made public his letter to Corbett urging he stand by his “decision to reject the Obamacare Medicaid expansion,” citing, “Medicaid is our state’s largest expenditure, dwarfing even public education.”

Learn more about Castor from his website: BruceCastor.Com. (Cont. Next Page)

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

Former State Sen. Vincent Fumo’s penchant for doing his public and private business online and by cellphone may have led to this rumor: He was reportedly found in possession of a cellphone, a nono for any prisoner, which may have resulted in an addon to his prison time by several months, since he may have lost “earned good time”.

It’s Joe Waters For Superior Ct.

There may or not be a primary battle among Republicans for District Attorney and Controller. Regardless, already canvassing in the 65th Ward with Young Republican leader Steven C. Boc were announced DA candidate Danny Alvarez and Controller candidate Terry Tracey.

Won’t Those In State House Know Theirs Is Of Glass?

We don’t wish it on him, but someone should tell State Rep. Glenn Grell (R-Cumberland) he won’t win any more votes by pushing an impeachment resolution for the House to consider against Justice Joan Orie Melvin. It could come back to haunt him.

We know there are many members in the General Assembly who for years had used their staffs to help them campaign for reelection. It was those staffers, for the most part, who were their early campaign volunteers and earned their spurs. So why should they not try to hold on to their jobs by getting their patron reelected?

Councilman

Kenyatta

Johnson 2nd Dist.

City Hall Room 580 Phila., PA 19107

215-686-3412 State Rep.

174th District 8100 Castor Ave Phila, PA 19152 T: 215-342-6204

GOP (215) 468-2300

Rep. J. P.

Miranda 215-978-2540 3728 Midvale Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19129

Supreme Court Mess Clouds Its Management

Robert M. Kline, Esq., came so close in his second run for a judicial post, he believes his “third time is a charm!” In 2011, Kline finished one place out, in 11th place in the race with 30 others for the 10 openings on the bench in that election. He is currently gathering petitions for both Common Pleas and Municipal Court.

Kline maintains a deep understanding of our courts and the needs of the community.

After serving as law clerk to Judge Bernard Goodheart, he spent over two decades working in criminal and private cases for several firms, and also served as general counsel both for a nonprofit social-service agency and a transporta-

With many of its day-to-day activities under a cloud, especially its hiring and firing practices as well as the benefits, legal but seemingly unethical, gained by some of its jurists, the average citizen is wary these days of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and its benchsitters.

So much so, in fact, that one of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court judges has only the Court’s shenanigans and his role in them to blame for not getting his expected role as this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. Too much resistance.

Instead, it will be one of our brave members of the first line of defense for honest citizens: a policeman.

Pennsylvania vehicle owners can show their support for our veterans through a new license plate. The plate is inscribed with the phrase “Honoring Our Veterans” and features an image of the American flag and a bald eagle. The cost is $35, of which $15 goes to the Veterans Trust Fund. This fund is used to support and assist Pennsylvania veterans and their families. To learn more about this plate or to set up an appointment with Veterans Services Coordinator Joe Buckley, please call my office at 215-695-1020.

215-758-6670

R EPRESENTATIVE

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It’s obvious where he plans a nomination run, though he has “yet to announce” which office he will be seeking.

However, his first public statement in announcing Keel’s appointment he is quoted as saying, “It’s no secret I still have a strong desire to hold elective office because I know how to streamline government and improve people’s quality of life..... Tom Corbett has failed the people of Pennsylvania and I am taking a very serious look at challenging him.

The hiring of Frank Keel, a talented pro whom I’ve known

197th Dist.

2243 W. Allegheny Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19132

SABATINA JR.

215-676-0300

State Senator

1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145

STATE REP. JOHN

170th Dist.

14230 Bustleton Ave. Phila., PA 19116

215-744-2600

www.SenatorFarnese.com

Tom Knox, our local business tycoon, has hired Frank Keel to handle the chores in his next campaign.

Boyle

(R) 177th Dist.

4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137

Tel. 215-952-3121

Knox Comes A-Knocking Again, But At Which Door?

Brendan F.

Taylor

First Senate District

Now the rules have changed and their patron can go to jail. Which is a shame.

The Orie sisters and other recently imprisoned members of the legislature would still be doing commendable work if House and Senate members would show some fortitude and pass legislation that would empower elected officials to use that portion of their staffs who came to their jobs as a result of their campaign efforts.

State Rep.

John

Larry Farnese

FLOCKING together at Black Sheep Pub in Rittenhouse Square were sympathizers drawn to candidacy of progressive fiscal watchdog Brett Mandel for City Controller. From left are April Maxwell, Nathan Shrader, Mandel, Michelle Atherton and Fred Druding.

Kline Sees Third Time As His Lucky Charm

A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE

3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643 Ready to Serve you

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

State Representative

RONALD G. WATERS 191st Leg. District

8016 Bustleton Avenue Philadelphia PA 19152 215-695-1020

6027 Ludlow Street, Unit A

215-748-6712

COMMISSIONER

AL SCHMIDT ROOM 134

City Hall 215-686-3464

Open Mon. - Fri. 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT

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We’d like to advise all Superior Court candidates we seldom ever endorse candidates; but the exception has arrived. We are endorsing Judge Joseph Waters for Superior Court in both the primary and general elections.

Up for grabs will be judicial posts in Courts of Common Pleas, six, and possibly one or two more; Municipal Court, three; Traffic Court, three. The legislative effort to reduce the TC number to two will not have an impact, if the rules are followed, on this race. So for now it is three. Of course, there is only one City Controller and one District Attorney. But for those who wish a seat, there will be 1,867 Judges of Election and 1,867 Inspectors of Election running this

GOP Candidates Up And Running

tion company serving specialneeds children and adults.

Currently he runs his own private practice with offices in Northwest Philadelphia and Center City. In 2011 he received a recommended rating from the Philadelphia Bar Association and the endorsement of Local 1199C.

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Just A Rumor, But It’s Political

Mandel’s Their Man

and worked with for years, is an important first step in this exciting journey, no matter the ultimate destination.”

Now, Tom, if you really mean it and should you make it, heavens forbid you bring that kind of talk to your first state-of-the-state message to the General Assembly.

Page 5

(Cont. From Prev. Page)

primary and in the general.

Those interested in those election-board posts, which are paid, should reach out to their respective ward leaders for the paperwork. Deadline for filing is Mar. 12.

The South Phialdelphia Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 6

City Reaches Out To help With AVI Information

Union Labor…

Building it right for a better and stronger community!

Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions:

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Jr. Business Manager/Co-Chairman L.E.C.E.T. Co-Chairman Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Damian Lavelle Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper, Jr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.

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

This ad is presented by LECET The Laborers Employers Cooperation and Education Trust 319 N. 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Telephone: 215-922-6139 Fax: 215-922-6109 Web: www.ldc-phila-vic.org Juan F. Ramos Administrator

The City will host a host of information seminars on AVI starting tonight in Bella Vista.

Mayor Michael Nutter and city councilmen Mark Squilla and Kenyatta Johnson have announced a series of outreach sessions, community meetings and information sessions to help residents understand the Actual Value Initiative and how it may affect them.

The Bella Vista Civic Association will host a meeting tonight. The first session hosted by the Mayor, begins in South Philadelphia on Saturday, Mar. 9 at SS. John Neumann and Marie Goretti Catholic High School, 1736 S. 10th Street, 10:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.

Nutter said residents can learn how to apply for the Homestead Exemption, how to read their Assessment

Change Notice and how to complete their First-Level Review Request form. Information will also be available on other tax-relief programs.

Citizens can “drop in” while the sessions are operating and meet one-on-one with city staff to learn more about the changes to the tax system.

“My Administration wants each homeowner to understand AVI and have access to necessary resources and information regarding relief measures,” said the Mayor.

“We will host drop-in sessions throughout Philadelphia so that all residents will have the opportunity to bring their questions and concerns to knowledgeable City officials.”

Property owners can bring their Assessment Change Notices with them, and trained staff will be able to explain

information contained in the document. Tables will be set up to answer questions related to both tax and current relief programs and to provide forms and information on the Homestead Exemption and the First-Level Review.

Property owners will also be able to call into two onehour Telephone Town Hall meetings, where City officials will take questions about the assessment process, the Homestead Exemption, the First-Level Review process, and other questions about the real estate tax changes. These are scheduled for Mar. 11 and Mar. 27. Details on how to participate in the Telephone Town Hall meetings will be provided later this week.

For more information about AVI, property owners can call (215) 686-9200 or go online to www.phila.gov/opa.

OBITUARY OIiver ‘Ali’ Robinson Oliver “Ali” Robinson, 64, longtime civic activist, Southwest Philadelphia resident and youngest brother of the late State Sen. Hardy Williams, died Monday.

He was the son of the late Frances “Mom” Williams, herself a noted community activist, and Jimmy Robinson.

Robinson was a sought-after political organizer whose string of successful campaigns ranged from the election of committee people to that of Mayor W. Wilson Goode, Sr. the late US Sen. Arlen Specter, State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, City

Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, State Reps. Ronald Waters and Jordan Harris, among others.

He was an was an active member of the Kingsessing Community Association; a founding member of The People’s Institute and Blacks Networking for Progress; part of Crisis Intervention Network; a community organizer for Model Cities of North Philadelphia; and had served as founder and publisher of the Southwest News. In 1992, he was a recipient of the Philadelphia Pride Award from the Rendell Administration.

Robinson is survived by his three daughters, Afrika Mona Strong, Kya Kamil Robinson, and Alia Robinson; three brothers, Jimmy Williams (Gloria), Freddie Williams (Ernestine), and Teddy Williams, one sister, Barbara Williams; grandchildren, Alexus and Ervon Schultz Jr.; a brother-like cousin, Carl Lacy (Rose); Clarence Jones, a close friend of 51 years; his companion, Wanda Mosley; and a host of reltives.

A viewing will be held Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1411 S. 50th Street.

Page 7 The Public Record • March 7, 2013 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Auctioned items will include 2 authentic autographed footballs

by Ron Jaworski

The Nutter Administration Actual Value Initiative is supposed to bring fairness to the way in which properties in Philadelphia are assessed and taxed. Instead of bringing fairness, AVI has invoked the fury of homeowners who have seen their property taxes go through the roof.

Among the neighborhoods hardest hit by AVI is middle-class South Philadelphia. The implementation of AVI.may force long-time South Philly residents who can’t afford a steep increase in their property taxes to sell their homes and leave the city for good.

As has happened many times before, 1st Ward Leader, labor leader John J. Dougherty, is again a helping hand by hosting a free community seminar on AVI to help homeowners gain a better understanding of the facts and myths of AVI and

instruct them on how to file appeals as well as “Homestead Exemption” claims.

The AVI seminar will take place at the Edward O’Malley Athletic Association (144 Moore Street), Wednesday, Mar. 13 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. It will feature a panel of real-estate and legal experts who will provide one-on-one assistance to all those who are concerned with their new property-tax assessments.

For Dougherty, it’s a labor of love for the South Philly neighborhoods he’s called home his entire life. “I’m cautioning people not to panic. There is still a great deal of skepticism among city and state elected officials about AVI and additional safeguards may soon be put in place,” said Dougherty. “No one minds paying their fair share in taxes, including me, but

AVI.is unfair and untested.”

“I can count on one hand the number of people who have worked for decades with me and others in my community to improve and maintain a high quality of life in our neighborhoods, with little to no help from the city,” Dougherty continued. “This administration has repeatedly failed to de- POLICE Athletic League youngsters were officers for day assuming duties of various city liver basic city services. department heads from Mayor Michael Nutter on down.

Now, they have the gall to dramatically raise our property taxes? We are the ones who stayed loyal to this city AIDA GUZMAN, through lean times. left, drew close sup“If anything, we should port from Councilbe getting tax breaks, not woman Maria another tax increase. It Quiñones Sánchez at seems the only thing this City Hall rally administration knows is to protesting acquittal try to tax its way back to fiscal solvency. This semiof police officer who nar will give affected homestruck Guzmán durowners a clear-eyed view of ing Puerto Rican pawhat they face and how they rade. can fight back.”

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 8

Dougherty Helps Decipher AVI Running Government For A Day

Paid for by Committee To Elect Vince Guisini

Standing Strong

MINORITY Chairmen of House Appropriations Committee Joseph Markosek and Chairman Bill Adolph listen intently to SEPTA GM Joe Casey responds to questions from the Committee detailing urgency of support needed for public transportation. Others in photo include David Donley, Dan Clark and State Rep. Dick Hess.

SEPTA’s buses, trains and trol- funding, SEPTA is unable to leys. SEPTA serves more than advance mission-critical proj76% of all transit passengers ects, such as the rehab of aging statewide, but receives just power substations and 63% of state operating assis- bridges.” tance for public transportation.

Casey noted the importance “SEPTA’s ability to meet of SEPTA to the local and state the region’s growing reliance economy. SEPTA’s operations on public transportation is con- support a region that is home to strained by operating and capi- 40% of the state’s economic actal budgets that have not grown tivity and private-business payto reflect the needs of an aging rolls. transit system,” Casey said.

House Appropriations Com“Without adequate capital mittee Member and Philadel-

phia Delegation Chair Cherelle L. Parker (D-Northwest) said Casey made a compelling case for the statewide benefits associated with increased public transportation investment.

“SEPTA’s impact on the state and local economy is undeniable,” said Parker, the Democratic Chair of the House Subcommittee on Public Transportation. “Every passenger trip SEPTA provides contributes in some way to the economy. Also, the Authority’s reinvestment across the state – $1 billion of goods and services purchased from Pennsylvania companies over the last four years alone – makes SEPTA an important economic partner for every region.”

Casey also pointed out SEPTA’s ongoing efforts to control expenses, including negotiating responsible labor contracts that reduce legacy costs, and efforts to explore all avenues available for keeping operating costs down. For

example, the Authority has a long-term contract to purchase diesel fuel for $2.61 a gallon, which is significantly below prices at the pump. In addition, a growing number of SEPTA’s bus fleet of 1,400 are dieselelectric hybrids, which increase fuel savings.

“I was pleased my colleagues were able to learn more about SEPTA’s cost-containment measures and the steps they have taken to minimize legacy costs,” said Appropriations Committee Chairman William F. Adolph (RDelaware). “From an operations and fiscal management perspective, SEPTA is a model of efficiency for other transit systems to follow.”

During the hearing, the representatives asked about SEPTA’s decision to purchase hybrid buses instead of CNG vehicles. Casey said it would be too costly to launch a CNG program, as an estimated $46 million in work would be need

to convert just two of SEPTA’s bus depots. Casey did say, however, that SEPTA would be open to ideas for public-private-partnerships related to CNG. Casey also pointed out that SEPTA has also aggressively pursued new sources of revenue in recent years, such as selling advertising at stations and on trains and buses.

SEPTA’s annual advertising income has doubled since 2005, from $6.2 million to $15 million annually. SEPTA is also saving money on energy costs and other expenses by focusing on a Sustainability Program with a comprehensive triplebottom-line (environmental-social-economic) agenda.

These efforts have helped SEPTA produce balanced budgets for 13 years in a row – although that streak is threatened by what would be a $38 million shortfall next year at current operational funding levels.

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

SEPTA’s impact on the region and the state, as well as the transit system’s critical and unfunded needs, were the subject of discussion during a Pennsylvania House of Appropriations Committee meeting last week.

SEPTA General Mgr. Joseph M. Casey offered testimony and answered a widerange of questions from state representatives. Casey said his purpose was to stress the “urgent need for comprehensive, dedicated, statewide investment in Pennsylvania’s transportation network – particularly public transit.”

SEPTA is a prime example.

The Authority’s capital budget has been reduced to approximately $300 million – its lowest level in 15 years – forcing the deferral of dozens of improvement projects. These reductions come as SEPTA is experiencing its highest ridership in 23 years. Last year, 339.4 million trips were recorded on

Page 9

SEPTA GM Casey Presses House For Public-Transit Aid

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

FUNERAL DIRECTOR Mark Rago joins former City Council President Anna Verna, Terry Paone, ERNEST DeNOFA, Hon. Ralph Tony Radwinski, Lois Bruno and John DiGennaro Spasatto and Luigi Liberato at 15th annual Carnevale. at Italian political gathering.

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DR. NICHOLAS DePACE, left, was honored by National Italian-American Political Action Committee at its 15th Annual Carnevale in Center City. Worldrenowned neurologist is joined by FORMER CONTROLLER Jonathan Anthony DiSandro Saidel, Judge Maria McLaughlin, Rhiannon Radetzky and Bill Ryan enjoy reat gala.

Photos by Rory McGlasson ception at 15th annual Carnevale.

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The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Carnevale Gala Honors Dr. Nick DePace

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WARD LEADER John Sabatina, Sr., State Rep. John Sabatina, Jr., Mike & Cathy Dougherty and Carmine & Sandy Berardi enjoy reception.

E V E N T CO-CHAIR Judy Camiel is flanked by Paul Murtagh and Gene Cortopassi.

Page 11

Our Opinion ...

AVI – Will We Find Heroes?

woman Cindy Bass at Tavern 17, 220 S. 17th St., 5-7 p.m.

Donations $100. Checks payable to the Friends of Cindy Bass.

Mar. 12- Capt. James R. Roche, president of Pilots’ Ass’n for Bay & R. Delaware, honored at Spirit of Port Award Luncheon sponsored

by Seamen’s Church Inst. at Sheet Metal Workers Union Hall, 11:30 a.m. For info (215) 940-9900.

Mar. 12- Town Hall meeting sponsored by District Attorney R. Seth Williams and State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas on Gun Violence Reduction at Althea Gibson Tennis Court Facility, 1000 W. Girard Ave., 6-8 p.m.

Mar. 12- AVI Free Tax Forum sponsored by 1st Dist.

Councilman Mark Squilla and 2nd Dist. Councilman Keny-

attta Johnson at Hawthorne Community Ctr., 1200 Carpenter St., 7-9 p.m.

Mar. 13- 1st Ward Leader John J. Dougherty sponsors free AVI Information Meeting for all at Edward O’Malley Athletic Association Hall, 144 Moore St., from 5 to 9 pm.

Mar. 15- Pat Parkinson hosts St. Patrick’s Day Beef & Beer at Paddy Whacks, 9241 Roosevelt Blvd., 7-11 p.m. Music – and special dispensation!

Tickets $35. Checks payable to Friends of 57th Ward (no corporate checks). For info (267) 773-3251.

Mar. 16- Mayor’s Office of Reintegration Services for ExOffenders hosts free forum and workshop at True Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Ch., 1601 Mifflin St., 9 a.m.-12 m.

RSVP Tyrone Ward (215) 683-3370.

Mar. 16- 58th Ward Leader State Sen. Mike Stack hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party at Bricklayers Local 1, Black Lake Rm., 2706 Black Lake Pl., 6-10 p.m. For info Rosemary Rubino (215) 964-3140.

Mar. 17- Judge Jimmy Lynn hosts St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast at Plough & Stars, 1st block S. 2nd St., 8 a.m. Admission $25, Students $20, Youngsters under 12 free.

Checks made payable to Plough & Stars. For info (215) 588-0046.

Mar. 18 - Mayfair Civic Ass’n invites all to Candidates Night at 2990 St. Vincent St., 7 p.m.

Mar. 21- Phila. Public Record will hold 12th annual Public Servant of the Year Award gala at Galdo’s Catering, 20th & Moyamensing Ave., 6:30-10 p.m. Open bar,

cocktail hors d’oeuvres, sumptuous buffet, honoring State Sen. Anthony Williams.

Tickets $50; table of 10, $450. Special Supplement will be published in our March 21st issue and distributed that evening as well. For ad and ticket info John David (215) 755-2000 or email John@phillyrecord.com.

Mar. 22- 82nd Airborne Div. Ass’n hosts All-American Dinner Awards at Iron Workers Ha., 11600 Norcom Rd., 6:30-11 p.m. Keynoter Gen. Wesley Craig, MC Vai Sikahema. Tickets $35 in advance, $40 at door. For info Don Tippett (215) 686-3452.

Mar. 23- Elevator Constructors’ Dinner Dance honoring 2012 Retirees at new Mechanics Rm. at 12273 Townsend Rd. Dinner chair Henry J. Sloan. For info (215) 676-

2555.

Mar. 28- Hon. Tim O’Brien hosts Salute to Gov. Tom Corbett at FOP Ha., 11630 Caroline Rd., 6-8 p.m. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, buffet.

Business attire. Tickets $250.

For info Kristie (267) 2350905.

Mar. 28- State Sen. Larry Farnese hosts Senior Expo at S. Phila. HS, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Seating limited. RSVP

by Mar. 22 (215) 952-3121.

Apr. 9- Penna. Soc. Luncheon at Gettysburg Hotel, Gettysburg, Pa. Apr. 13- Elaine Tomlin hosts Democratic 42nd Ward candidates Night Out at Portuguese American Rosary Soc. Ha., 182 W. Ashdale St., 7-11 a.m. Donation $25, $30 at door. Evening attire. Music, food, dancing, cash bar, street orchestra, DJs.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Mar. 7- State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown hosts seminar on small games of chance at CCP W. Campus, 4725 Chestnut St., 6-9 p.m. Advice for clubs and nonprofits. For info (215) 879-6615.

Mar. 7- Mike Fanning hosts pre-Election party at Casper’s Pl., 3510 Cottman St., 6-9 p.m. Food, beer & wine.

Tickets $30.

Mar. 10- 23rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 12 m. from 16th & Parkway. For info Michael Bradley (610) 449-4320.

Mar. 11- Fundraising Reception in honor of Council-

ties have been heavily hit.

Also a tip of the hat to 1st Ward Leader John J. Dougherty, IBEW Local 98 business manager and former Pennsport Civic Association president, for a free public seminar on Wednesday, Mar. 13, 5 to 9 p.m. at Edward O’Malley Athletic Association, 144 Moore Street. Get the real answers here.

Kudos go to District Councilmen Mark Squilla and Kenyatta Johnson for hosting the first of free information forums for their constituents at the Hawthorne Community Center, Mar. 12 at 7:30 p.m. They will be there to give info and learn from their constituents what needs to be addressed before AVI becomes the letter of the law.

Meetings like these we sorely need and welcome. We urge the Mayor to attend one of two of his own outreach sessions as well, where he might get a better understanding of what he has unleashed and what the people think of his administration. His first are tonight, from 6 to 9 p.m. at American Heritage Federal Credit Union, 2060 Red Lion Road, with another at the same time at Joseph Coleman Library, 68 W. Chelten Avenue. There will be another one on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at SS. Neumann-Goretti HS, 10th & Moore Streets.

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

The Mayor’s launching of his Actual Value Initiative onto the properties of this city will put a serious hurt on the economy if it lands unchanged.

No matter what is said, AVI, as it now stands, will take more money from those who cannot afford it, to pay for more public “Initiatives”. Haven’t we yet learned every City program with “Initiative” in its title has proven to be a chaotic, costly failure? They all fell far short of their goals, with little to show.

To their credit, the City Council’s District Members, for the most part, are moving to lessen the fiscal damage impacting their constituents when it becomes the law of the land. They are the first line of defense for their howling public.

We trust and hope they all won’t cave in under the pressures to allow AVI to stand as is. For example, shortly, wellmeaning blocs of school supporters now being programmed will descend on Council meetings to demand an increasing share from the City’s take in property taxes.

We believe the majority will support City Controller Alan Butkovitz’s call for a full disclosure into what criteria were used to determine the new tax rates, and who and how they were determined. Some have been spared, many others are hurt. Renters will bear much of the cost where proper-

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 12

Labor, Political Community Turn Out To Honor Council President

CITY COUNCIL President Darrell Clark was honored at testimonial hosted by 1st Ward leader John J. Dougherty, business manager of IBEW Local 98, and Charles M. Gibbs, Esq., finance chair for Darrell Clark, at Route 6 Restaurant Monday night. In photo are Gibbs, President Clark, Doughery, Jeffrey Young and City Controller Alan Butkovitz.

Photos by Maria Merlino

ENJOYING COUNCIL President Darrell Clarke’s gala were Councilman Bobby Henon, judicial CITY CONTROLLER Alan Butkovitz candidate Henry Lewandowski was seen with Spring Garden residents III and 1st Ward Leader John J. Rob Platten and Barbara Freeland.

Dougherty.

DOMINICK CIPOLLINI, ClearChannel CONGRATULATING President Darrell Clarke were John Outdoor VP Barbara S. Bridge and CounPaone, Stanley Tarailla and Councilwoman Jannie Black- cilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown were seen at crowded event. well.

PFT President Jerry Jordan, former Bishop Neuman phys-ed teacher Ken Adams and President of American Federation of Teachers Ted Kirsch indicated their support for President Clarke’s leadership.

Realtor Barbara Capozzi and President of the Philadelphia Board of Realtors Allen Domb showed their support with their attendance.

1ST WARD Leader John J. Dougherty welcomed Traffic Court judicial hopeful Omar Sabir and LDC chief Ryan Boyer. Sabir took 4-week course in Harrisburg, passed 2-hour test and is “certified” to run for Traffic Court.

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Gifts To St. Patrick

FAST TRACK Construction’s Chris McElwee, Ron Kaplan, Esq., Local 98’s Mike Neal and ED HAZZOURI and Keystone Outdoor Councilman Bobby Henon gathered for this Advertising Joe Felici were all smiles. photo.

SANDY MULLER, CEO of Muller Distributors, presents $5,000 check to help defer St. Patrick’s Day Parade expenses to members of St. Patrick’s Observance Association: Michael Bradley, parade director; Bob Gessler, president; and John J. Dougherty, Board member.

Photo by Joe O’Stivala

Lane Hits Campaign Road RALLYING around Timika Lane, candidate for Common Pleas Judge, at Industry 19 funder were, from left, Anika Warren, sponsor Tamika McKoy, Esq., Lane, campaign volunteer Kanika AMONG Clarke supporters were John Paone, Boone and Tee Armstrong of AMONG attendees were attorney David Ward Leader Bill Ivers and consultant Ken Oak Lane Democrats.

Glassman with Andy Cosenza.

Adams.

Photo by Bill Myers

LEADERS GALORE turned out for festive opening, among them, from left, Barnes Foundation CONNOISSEUR attorneys Steve Harmelin and CEO Derek Gillman, State Rep. Dwight Evans and Alan Kessler enjoyed the view and the company at exhibit opening.

Honorary British Consul Oliver Franklin.

TOM WOODWARD, president of Bank of America Penna., prime sponsor of Flower Show, was there with his colleagues Debbie O’Brien and Teresa & MARIA PAPADAKIS, in white, and her posse Ken Wood.

Photo by Bonnie Squires were enjoying Flower Show. Photo by Bonnie Squires

BEST IN SHOW winners Michael Petrie, right, and wife Kathye posed in front of their award-winning large exhibit with collaborators Tiana & Greg Leavitt, who created Louise Nevelson-like sculptures for Petrie’s garden display.

Photo by Bonnie Squires

LORINA MARSHALL, of Independence Blue Cross, was there with Orville Coxen.

TOM ELLIS, former Montco Treasurer, socialDR. DAVID BRIGHAM, CEO of PAFA, with his ized with Gretchen Wisehart, left, and Suzanne wife Holly, greeted Daria & Andy Pew at gala.

Cawley.

MARC& PAULA Solomon congratulate Drew Becher, CEO of PHS and organizer of Phila. Flower Show, on spectacular success of BrilPhoto by Bonnie Squires liant!

OUR CONTRIBUTING Editor Bonnie Squires enjoyed posing with two British Beefeaters.

Photos by Bonnie Squires

Photo by Bonnie Squires

Photo by Bonnie Squires

DREXEL President John Fry and wife Cara meet DEVELOPER Carl Dranoff and his wife up with Suzanne & Norman Cohn at Flower Show Roberta, right, were joined by their friend Mary gala.

Photo by Bonnie Squires Photo by Bonnie Squires Griffin.

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ENJOYING Preview Party of Phila. Flower Show are, from left, Councilman Bill Green, his wife STATE SEN. Larry Farnese was joined at gala Margie and their son William, and friends Sue & by friends Melanie Martin and Chris Chimicles.

Photo by Bonnie Squires Michael Young.

Photo by Bonnie Squires

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

JILL & SHELDON BONOVITZ’ fabulous collection of self-taught artists attracted lawyers, politicians, corporate leaders and art-lovers. Comcast is a major sponsor of exhibit and CEO Brian Roberts was on hand to greet collector Bonovitz.

PHILA. MUSEUM OF ART held opening reception for “OUTSIDER ART” exhibit with a lot of “insiders” there, among them Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz and husband Dr. David Schwartz.

Page 13

Outsiders On Inside At Art Museum Flower Show Opens ‘Brilliantly’

Page 14 The Public Record • March 7, 2013 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The privatization of the Liquor Control Board has become a priority of the Corbett Administration. Many believe that successful privatization of the Commonwealth’s liquor business is important to improving the Governor’s weak approval ratings. According to a recent poll, roughly 70% of the people in the Philadelphia-area five counties want the cheaper prices and expansive selection that competition could bring to the wine and liquor markets. Opponents include primarily some but not all unions, the elected officials supported by those unions, beer distributors and those concerned about substance abuse.

GOV. TOM CORBETT has tasked LT. GOV. JIM CAWLEY with getting the privatization done. As the keynote speaker at Commonwealth Club luncheon last week, Cawley noted the details of the bill have not been worked out, but he is confident a deal will be cut that is acceptable to legislators. Currently, the bill is in the House Liquor Committee, chaired by Philadelphia STATE REP. JOHN TAYLOR. Taylor, although a Republican, enjoys the support of a number of unions including the Teamsters. The Teamsters are rumored to be divided on the issue. Some Teamsters see additional hauling opportunities from the private-sector stores. Others are concerned about members of other unions losing their jobs. There approximately 4,500 people working in LCB operations.

Corbett’s 2013-2014 budget calls for the privatization of the LCB. The plan which was outlined last month is expected to raise $1 billion from the sale of store licenses and the proceeds will be used to finance the Passport for Learning Block (Cont. Page 22)

If you’re not busy today, and you’re a fight fan, you might want to head down to 440 N. Broad Street, otherwise known as the School District of Philadelphia building. I say this because if you like a good fight, you’ll get front-row seats for a real donnybrook today.

You see, the School Reform Commission is voting on whether to close 29 schools today. They were going to close 37, 18 of which were in North Philadelphia, and the Boston Consulting Group, the organization whose report inspired the District to break out the chainsaws and go all Friday the 13th, wanted even more schools shut down.

But after sitting through a series of public meetings featuring parents looking for a legal way to tar and feather him, Superintendent William Hite decided to take a few schools like, for example, Strawberry Mansion HS, off the list.

But for activists, 29 schools are too many, especially in light of eight schools’ being shuttered last year.

So a coalition of groups including the Philadelphia NAACP, Parents United, Action United and others, went to City Hall to ask Mayor Michael Nutter to request a one-year moratorium on closing schools. They rallied outside City Hall while a smaller group that included Philadelphia NAACP President J. Wyatt Mondesire and Helen Gym of Parents United met with the Mayor.

I could have told ’em what he was going to do, because I had heard it on WHYY that morning: Mayor Nutter isn’t going to ask for a moratorium. He’s not going to ask for (Cont. Page 21)

Yo! Here we go again with this question: Why do I like retirement?

Question: What is the best way to describe retirement? Answer: The never-ending coffee break. Question: When is a retiree’s bedtime? Answer: Three hours after he falls asleep on the couch. Question: What’s the biggest gripe of retirees? Answer: There is not enough time to get everything done.

Question: What do retirees call a long lunch? Answer: Normal. Question: What’s the biggest advantage of going back to school as a retiree? Answer: If you cut classes, no one calls your parents. Question: Why does a retiree often say he doesn’t miss work, but misses the people he used to work with? Answer: He is too polite to tell the whole truth.

I’ve sure gotten old! I’ve had two bypass surgeries, a hip replacement, new knees, fought prostate cancer and diabetes. I’m half blind, can’t hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation; hardly feel my hands and feet anymore. Can’t remember if I’m 85 or 92 and have lost all my friends. But thank God, I still have my driver’s license.

I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor’s permission to join a fitness club and start exercising. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.

An elderly woman decided to prepare her will and told her preacher she had two final requests. First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Wal-Mart. “Wal-Mart?” the preacher exclaimed. “Why in Wal-Mart?”

“Then I’ll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week.”

My memory’s not as sharp as it used to be. Also, my memory’s not as sharp as it used to be.

Know how to prevent sagging? Just eat till the wrinkles fill out. It’s scary when you start making the same noises as your coffeemaker. These days about half the stuff in my shopping cart says, “For fast relief.”

THE SENILITY PRAYER: Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, (Cont. Page 21)

All the clamor over the state SUPREME COURT and referrals seems to confirm infighting within the court. There has always been a suspicion that the revelations over our abuilding Court House begat the Traffic Court probe – which begat the fees story (?). The problem with the whole conundrum is that the credibility of the high court could be harmed.

And the Chief Justice is up for retention as well!... Didn’t the chief justice suggest that four recently appointed judges here (and another in Pittsburgh) be held up to save money – a savings of easily over $400,000. That is also the sum for the cost of the CHADWICK report on Traffic Court!!

And what of the poor 120 EMPLOYEES of Traffic Court who quietly labor each day, but who have lived under an investigative reign of the heavy hand. Can STATE SENATORS protect them? Our Philly House and Senate delegation has been noticeably silent, but needs to STAND UP on this issue!... News is 40-60 petitions for Traffic Court JUDGE have been given out to possible candidates is a sign all the probes and negative news did NOT CHANGE the public appreciation of the court. The courageous 60 KNOW the press will look into their closet for any bad news or back tickets, yet they are READY to bear it. Lawmakers and press take note. There are also 60 petitions for Municipal and Common Pleas Judge out there. Take note, MERIT MORALISTS. BIRTHDAY best to Danny BAUDER, popular DEM young lion committeeman.... Amato BERARDI ran a good race for reelection to the Parliament of Italy in a tough time (Cont. Page 21)

The personal grudge match between Supreme Court JUSTICES RON CASTILLE and SEAMUS McCAFFERY has gone to a new level. A front-page Philadelphia Inquirer article discussed the referral fees Justice McCaffery’s wife LISA RAPAPORT apparently received while working as the chief judicial aide for Justice McCaffery. There appeared to be no ethical violations or any wrongdoing. Rather it alluded to appearances of impropriety. But the article and its anonymous sources are probably more realistically the continuation of the proxy war between the two Justices.

The fight previously reared its ugly head in the investigation of Philadelphia Traffic Court.

Justice Castille commissioned and made public a report in which Justice McCaffery was mentioned for possibly seeking special treatment for his wife’s traffic ticket. Philadelphia has enough problems without its two justices on the Supreme Court feuding. This turf war must end and this public spat must cease.

The Democratic Party Policy Committee will take place early next week. The policy committee makes endorsements for elective office in the city and judicial candidates have been waiting with bated breath. The endorsement by the policy committee could make or break many candidates and it often does. The powerful committee is composed of Democratic CHAIRMAN BOB BRADY and a dozen or so of his most-trusted word leaders including powerful union boss and 1ST WARD LEADER JOHN DOUGHERTY. Also on the policy committee is wellrespected ANNA VERNA, the former City Council President. The sight of dozens of wouldbe judges waiting nervously on the sidewalk outside City Committee is something to behold.

Candidates can, and many do, choose to run even without the endorsement, but they always incur the wrath of the Democratic City Committee at a later time. Among those judicial hopefuls waiting for word of an endorsement are CHRISTINE HOPE, JIM CRUMLISH, CHRIS MALLIOS, SIERRA STREET, JOE FERNANDES, SCOTT O’KEEFE, RICHARD GORDON and a host of others.

Also hoping for endorsements were City CONTROLLER ALAN BUTKOVITZ and DISTRICT ATTORNEY SETH WILLIAMS. Conventional wisdom is both will easily receive the endorsement from the policy committee. However, the main challengers for City Controller, (Cont. Page 22)

Council Passes Landmark Budget Reform kitchen table.”

The second measure, with the same co-sponsors, requires a cost-benefit analysis for capital budget expenditures. The analysis will be required to accompany the Fiscal Year 2016 capital budget and the FY 201621 capital.

“Our six-year capital program is close to $9 billion,” Green said. “And the current budget details do not identify important aspects of capital programs like return on investment and the annual costs associated with the new projects. Requiring this analysis will help Council make strategic capital decisions based upon cost and priority to make sure a project is actually worth funding.”

nia.

“We are the sixth-largest state and we have the fourthlargest population of citizens ages 65 and older, and yet we’re not part of the increasing number of states that are accepting a Medicaid expansion. It’s sickening too many Pennsylvanians either can’t afford health insurance or have very limited access to coverage,” said Stack, who is the Democratic chairman of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee. “There is no reasonable benefit to rejecting the Medicaid expansion plan; in fact, we should em-

brace the plan. It’s an unprecedented opportunity to help many folks who are in desperate need of health care and at the same time create jobs and receive federal funding. This should be a no-brainer.”

Aside from West Virginia, which is still weighing a decision, Pennsylvania is the only state in the Mid-Atlantic region that has rejected the plan, which could help up to 700,000 Pennsylvanians.

Evans Bill Would ‘Pay for Success’

State Rep. Dwight Evans (D-N. Phila.) unveiled “Pay

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As more states opt into the Medicaid expansion plan under the federal Affordable Care Act, State Sen. Mike Stack (DNortheast) said the Governor’s decision to reject the federal Medicaid expansion plan is a bad prescription for Pennsylva-

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make headway against some of our most persistent problems.”

Evans’ proposal would convert government into a catalyst, instead of conduit for cash, for programs that produce clearly defined benchmarks.

“I propose a pilot program that would fund programs that have shown remarkable results in reducing homelessness and recidivism among a small sample, but have been unable to win funding from (Cont. Page 16)

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

Sen. Stack Calls Medicaid Rejection Bad Prescription

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for Success” legislation that would break the chains of traditional government funding by investing in innovative programs that produce better outcomes and save tax dollars.

“Government is rooted in an archaic and ineffective system of wasting scarce taxpayer dollars to perpetuate programs that have been highly successful in securing their survival but dismal in achieving results,” Evans said. “I propose a 21stcentury way of thinking to

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Taxpayers in Philadelphia should have a City government that is efficient, effective and delivers the most value to citizens is the goal of two bills introduced by Councilman Bill Green and unanimously passed

by City Council mandating program-based budgeting for how the City spends its operating funds and a cost-benefit analysis for every project proposed for the City’s capital budget.

The Councilman’s bills modify Chapter 21 of the Philadelphia Code and are enacted with the authority given to Council by voters in a November, 2012 ballot measure.

“I am extremely excited to see these new budget reforms enacted,” Green said. “These new approaches are being implemented in the private and public sectors across the country – across the world, really – and Philadelphia is now the largest city in the country to adopt it.”

The first measure – co-sponsored by Council members David Oh, Maria QuiñonesSanchez, Kenyatta Johnson and Denny O’Brien – establishes a system of program-based budgeting that identifies the cost and effectiveness of City services.

For each function of a City Department, the Finance Director would be required to identify: the goals of the function, the resources necessary to complete the function (salaries & benefits, materials, etc.) the funding source for the required resources (general fund, grants, etc.) and a means of determining the effectiveness of the function in meeting goals.

“This is essential information for Council to exercise its fiduciary responsibility when spending taxpayer dollars,” Green said. “What are we spending our money on and is that money having the desired impact? It’s the way a budget should be planned, whether in City Hall or around your

Page 15

Heard on the Hill / in City Hall

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 16

Heard on the Hill / in City Hall

(Cont. From Page 15) cash-strapped governments,” Evans said. “Such a program would spur innovation and engage nonprofits and foundations by funding success.”

Evans stressed the pilot program only would pay for proven results that produce savings for taxpayers.

“Only clearly defined out-

comes would be rewarded,” Evans said. “Why not accentuate the best and the brightest ideas instead of the shopworn and expensive ones?”

Besides prison recidivism and homelessness, Evans said his “Pay for Success” model could reward interventions that reduce costly special education placements. The pro-

In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 121202518 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs of Harold Watkins, Deceased & Hope Watkins, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Harold Watkins, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: Unknown Heirs of Harold Watkins, Deceased, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 6554 North 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19126. 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 Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, 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. 121202518, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 6554 North 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19126, 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 or 215-981-3700. Phila Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215-2386333. 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.

gram also could invigorate programs that accelerate learning, keep older citizens out of costly nursing homes and mainstream people with disabilities into the workforce.

Roebuck Would Send Kids Beyond HS State Rep. James Roebuck D-W. Phila.), Democratic chairman of the House Education Committee, is introducing legislation to provide $4.2

million to avoid the looming cancellation of a program that helps Pennsylvania’s most atrisk students to access posthigh-school education.

“This is a small amount in a $28 billion state budget and would ensure the continuation of a vital program until new federal funds can arrive later this year. More than 12,000 underrepresented high-school students in 11 of our most

In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130101656 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs of Flossie Bailey, Deceased, Anthony Bailey, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Flossie Bailey, Deceased & Victor Bailey Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Flossie Bailey, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: Unknown Heirs of Flossie Bailey, Deceased, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 1514 West Louden 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, 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. 130101656, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1514 West Louden 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. Community Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, 3638 N. Broad St., Phila., PA 19140, 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700. Phila Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215-2386333. 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.

challenged school districts, including Philadelphia, Chester, York, Lancaster and Pittsburgh, have benefited from this work since the inception of the grant program four years ago. Through the State Dept. of Education, one of these organizations, Project Grad, works with PHEAA, Penn State and Franklin & Marshall College to serve students under the grant pro-

gram,” Roebuck said.

Roebuck said Project Grad alone serves 12,000 Pennsylvania students each year providing college access, and career and academic supports.

Project Grad served 1,779 seniors who earned $19 million in student aid for college this year and provided support for students in grades 9 through 12 to learn how to go to college.

In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 121201409 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Mark Taylor, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased & Robin Taylor, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: Unknown Heirs of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 3241 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19129. 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. 121201409, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3241 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19129, 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 or 215981-3700. 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 17

bankruptcy. In re Barth, No. 09-36006, ADV No. 11-03233 (Bky.D.Minn. Feb. 11, 2013).

The court ruled that under tribal law, the members’ right to receive future casino-revenue allocation payments was not a property right recognized by the bankruptcy law’s section 541(a).

Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, a tribe engaging in Indian casino gambling must negotiate a compact with its state. Such a compact must be approved by the Secretary of the Interior. Each tribe (Cont. Page 23)

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

It won’t start now. It acts as if it’s not getting gas and is low on power. You can literally hear it losing power when (Cont. Page 19)

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

toms including suicidal by Michael A. Cibik, Esquire American Bankruptcy ideation or severe obsessional Board Certified rituals, or any serious impairQuestion: Can tribe memment in social or occupational bers’ monthly casino-profit alfunctioning.

Diagnostic and Statistical locations be seized by Manual of Mental Disorders bankruptcy trustee?

Answer: Minnesota bank(Cont. Page 19) ruptcy court Judge Dennis D. O’Brien ruled that future In The Court of Common Pleas monthly per capita casino revPhiladelphia County enue payments belonging to Civil Action – Law members of the Lower Sioux No. 121201409 Indian Community, a federally Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure recognized Indian tribe in Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. Unknown Minnesota, cannot be taken by Heirs of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Mark Taylor, Solely in a Chapter 7 trustee when a His Capacity as Heir of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased & Robin tribe member files for personal Taylor, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: Unknown Heirs of Henry C. Taylor, Deceased, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 3241 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19129. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client.

by Tom Flynn Any information obtained from you will be used for the purand Rocco DeGregorio pose of collecting the debt. You are hereby notified that Question: I just bought a Plaintiff, Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., has filed a Mortused 1999 Ford Taurus. I had gage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to deit about five weeks. fend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of I noticed during that time Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. when I would put it in gear, it 121201409, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortwould take a minute to catch. gage secured on your property located, 3241 North Dover It only did that twice in a fiveStreet, Philadelphia, PA 19129, whereupon your property week period. If I would press will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. the gas it would just rev the Notice: You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend RPMs. Then it would catch against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must and go. take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and One day I pulled out of my notice are served, by entering a written appearance persondriveway, got on the highway ally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your and noticed a “clinking” defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. sound that elevated when I You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may propushed the gas. Then the ceed without you and a judgment may be entered against power dropped, so I went to you by the Court without further notice for any money turn around and get it back claimed in the Complaint for any other claim or relief rehome; and it died completely. quested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or I had only had it on the road other rights important to you. You should take this paper to for about five minutes. your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot I popped the hood (It’s a 6afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below. This cylinder). The middle sparkoffice can provide you with information about hiring a plug that you can see in the lawyer. If you cannot afford to hire a Lawyer, this office may front, the rubber on it was be able to provide you with information about agencies that smoking like hell. It never may offer legal services to eligible persons at a reduced fee showed it was overheating or or no fee. even getting hot. Oh, two secCommunity Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, onds before the car died com3638 N. Broad St., Phila., PA 19140, 215-227-2400 or 215pletely, the engine light lit up and then started flashing. It is 981-3700. Phila Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA losing coolant/water … and 19104, 215-238-6333. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for pressure builds up in the reserPlaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Indevoir quickly. I have seen the pendence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106-1532, water put in it all leak out 215.627.1322. when it was parked.

by Michael P. Boyle, Esq. In the course of treating someone with mental illness, most psychiatrists and psychologists assign a global assessment of functioning score.

A GAF score between 41 to 50 represents severe symp-

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 18

Ringside With The Shadowboxer

Labor Women Flash Their Art

FOP Charity Brawl

V I S U A L artist and SEIU 32 BJ (Janitorial Service & School Employees) member CheSaitta Zelterman shares her sense of beauty.

FOP MEMBERS salute American Flag in ring at National Guard Armory prior to participating in 10th Annual Blue COALITION of Labor Union Women held an innovative art Flame Boxing Bouts which help raise funds for local charities. show of members’ works at Workers United HQ. Proud of show were Nicole Fuller of Phila. AFL-CIO and Carol THE FREDS: Vet- Rogers, AFSCME 47 retiree.

Photos by Bill Myers eran Boxers Association Dir. Fred Druding, Jr., timekeeper for FOP Boxing Bouts, welcomed Traffic Court candidate Fred Mari to ringside.

JUDY HOOVER, left, legislative director and Maisha Brown, chair of Next Wave Committee, show a visionary side of their lives.

ORGANIZERS of labor art show were, from left, Carol Rogers, AFSCME 47 retiree; Kathy Black, AFSCME 47; Laura Wentz, IATSE Local 8; and Danielle Newsome, CLUW.

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA Public Hearing Notice

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

REFEREE MIKE McCarney raises hand of Police Officer Ed Lopez, who defeated colleague Ron Griffin in exciting bout.

Candidates In Costello’s Ring

ANNUAL N.E. Philly Costello Boxing Club dinner drew many candidates and leaders for another year to the District Council 21 banquet hall. Seen above are Seamus Boyle, AOH state president; Fred Mari, Traffic Court candidate; Mike Fanning, CP Court candidate; Tim Costello; Chris Concillio; Dawn Tancredi and Christine Hope, candidates for Common Pleas judge; Dan Grace, Local 830 Leader; Mike Costello; Councilman Bobby Henon; and candidate and Judge Fran Photo by Joe Stivala Shields.

The Committee on Public Health and Human Services of the Council of the City of Philadelphia will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, March 18, 2013, at 11:00 AM, in Room 400, City Hall, to heartestimony on the following item: 120796 An Ordinance amending Section 19-2604 of The Philadelphia Code relating to tax rates and credits for the Business Income and Receipts Tax by providing a credit for contributions to nonprofit organizations engaged in developing and implementing healthy food initiatives, under certain terms and conditions.

Immediately following the public hearing, a meeting of the Committee on Public Health and Human Services, open to the public, will be held to consider the action to be taken on the above listed item.

Copies of the foregoing item are available in the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Council, Room 402, City Hall.

Michael Decker Chief Clerk

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA Public Meeting Notice The Committee the Council of the Public Meeting on at 2:00 PM, in following item:

on Labor and Civil Service of City of Philadelphia will hold a Wednesday, March 13, 2013, Room 400, City Hall, on the

120956 An Ordinance amending various titles of The Philadelphia Code to increase the equality of treatment of all persons in the City of Philadelphia regardless of gender identity by expanding and modifying the definition of "Life Partnership" and "Life Partner"; further providing for protections, rights, benefits, and responsibilities of Life Partners; authorizing a tax credit as an incentive to provide health care benefits to Life Partners; providing for gender neutrality in certain City forms; and making conforming changes; all under certain terms and conditions.

Copies of the foregoing item are available in the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Council, Room 402, City Hall.

Michael Decker Chief Clerk

T0: Shawn Wilson A Petition has been filed asking the court to put an end to all rights you have to your child Baby Girl White who was born on 1/1,2/73 at Einstein Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, as well as any rights T.W. has to Baby Girl White. The court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child. That hearing will be held on March 28,20!3, at 9:30 a.m. at Court Room t4, One Montgomery Plaza, Orphan's Court Division, Swede Street, Norristown, PA L9404 before ]udge Ott. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child as well as the rights of T.W. to that child may be ended by the court without your being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below to find outwhere you can get legal help.

LAWYER REFERRAL AND INFORMATION SERVICE 100 WestAiry Street P.O. Box 268 Norristown,PAt9404 (610) 279-LAWL

ASK Car Expt (Cont. From Page 17) you try to crank it up. No doubt it gets hot but I’m not sure what’s up.

I was told by a non-mechanic I had a busted head gasket and I sure hope not, but need to know regardless. I looked in the water reservoir for oil and it looked rusty but I couldn’t really tell. So after all

this, do you have any ideas??

Anything is appreciated.

Answer: I would do a compression test or get a mechanic to do a head check. This is a simple and quick chemical test to check for carbon monoxide in the cooling system. But if the system is building up so much pressure, that is not a good sign.

You can also do a simple test at home: Fill the coolant to

the top and run the engine with no cap on. With head problems, you will get severe bubbling or even water being ejected from the reservoir as compression pressure is pumped into the cooling system from the problem head gasket.

Tom has been serving automotive customers in the Philadelphia area for over 20 years as a salesman and then General Manager of Pacifico Auto Group. Rocco is a top automotive consultant.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

An important option may be available to you under Act 101 of PA Law that allows for an enforceable voluntary agreement for continuing contact following an adoption between an adoptive parent, a child, a birth parent and/or a birth relative of the child, if all parties agree and the voluntary agreement is approved by the court. The agreement must be signed and approved by the court to be legally binding. You are also warned that if you fail to file either an acknowledgment of paternity pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. Section 2503 (d) relating to acknowledgement and claim of paternity, and fail to either appear at a hearing to object to the termination of your rights or file a written objection to such termination with the court prior to the hearing, your rights may be terminated under Pa.C.S.A. 2503[d) or 2504[c) of the adoption act.

tuted a specific medical finding” the claimant was unable to perform competitive work. Escardille, supra. GAF scores are one part of the record evidence used in assessing whether an individual can perform a job in the national economy. Dougherty, supra.

An ALJ’s failure to discuss their impact is good grounds for a successful federal court appeal.

The South Philadelphia Public Record • March 7, 2013

(Cont. From Page 17) Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR), 4th ed. 2000, p. 34.

GAF scores between 31 to 40 indicate some impairment in reality testing or communication (e.g., speech is at times illogical, obscure, or irrelevant) or major impairment in several areas, such as work or school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood. Id. SSA is supposed to assess these scores when determining a claimant’s ability to work.

In most cases, an ALJ’s failure to discuss and evaluate a GAF score of 50 or below represents a reversible error of law and requires that the claim be remanded to evaluate this

evidence. West v. Astrue, 2010 WL 1659712 *4-7 (E.D. Pa. 2010); Nieves v. Astrue, 2010 WL 629831*5-6. (E.D. Pa. 2010); Salgado v. Astrue, 2007 WL 2404713 (E.D. Pa. 2007); Santiago-Rivera v. Barnhart, 2006 WL 2794189*9-10 (E.D. Pa. 2006); Dougherty v. Barnhart, 2006 WL 2433792*9-10 (E.D. Pa. 2006); Colon v.

Barnhart, 424 F.Supp.2d 805, 813-816 (E.D. Pa. 2006); Span ex rel. R.C. v. Barnhart, 2004 WL 1535768*7, *9 (E.D. Pa. 2004); Escardille v. Barnhart, 2003 WL 21499999*6-7 (E.D. Pa. 2003); contra Packard v.

Astrue, 2012 WL 4717890*3 (E.D. Pa.); Parks v. Astrue, 2009 WL 6103268*13-14 (E.D. Pa. 2009).

A GAF score of 50 “consti-

Page 19

Soc. Sec.

Page 20

NOTICE OF GENERAL PRIMARY ELECTION

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2013 THE FOLLOWING POLITICAL PARTIES ARE ELIGIBLE TO NOMINATE THEIR CANDIDATES REPUBLICAN PARTY • DEMOCRATIC PARTY Between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. in all election districts and divisions in the City and County of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania there will be nominated by the voters of the City and County of Philadelphia persons to fill the following offices, as certified by the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Philadelphia County Board of Elections.

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS COURT JUDGE OF MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE OF TRAFFIC COURT OFFICE OF THE CITY CONTROLLER OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY JUDGE OF ELECTIONS INSPECTOR OF ELECTIONS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS

AVISO DE ELECCIONES PRIMARIAS GENERALES

MARTES, 21 DE MAYO DE 2013 LOS PARTIDOS POLÍTICOS SIGUIENTES SON ELEGIBLES PARA NOMINAR SUS CANDIDATOS PARTIDO REPUBLICANO • PARTIDO DEMOCRÁTA Entre las 7:00 a. m. y 8:00 p. m. en todos los distritos y las divisiones electorales en la ciudad y el condado de Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, los votantes de la ciudad y del condado de Philadelphia nominarán personas para cubrir los siguientes cargos según lo certifica el Secretario de la Mancomunidad y el Consejo electoral del condado de Philadelphia.

JUEZ DEL TRIBUNAL SUPERIOR JUEZ DEL TRIBUNAL DE CAUSAS COMUNES JUEZ DEL TRIBUNAL MUNICIPAL JUEZ DEL TRIBUNAL DE TRÁNSITO OFICINA DEL CONTRALOR DE LA CIUDAD FISCALÍA DEL DISTRITO JUEZ DE ELECCIONES INSPECTOR DE ELECCIONES CONSEJO ELECTORAL DEL CONDADO DE PHILADELPHIA

Anthony Clark Chair, City Commissioners

Stephanie F. Singer City Commissioner

Anthony Clark Presidente, Comisionados Municipales

Stephanie F. Singer Comisionado Municipal

Al Schmidt Vice Chair, City Commissioners

Tim Dowling Acting Supervisor of Elections

Al Schmidt Vicepresidente, Comisionados Municipales

Tim Dowling Supervisor Interino de Elecciones

Walking The Beat

that the OPA (assessment) office should be involved with tax collection from delinquent abatement holders? WHAT??

All that ENERGY used to assert that, when it is really a Revenue Dept. job. That agency could have been used to make collections!

AVI makes me think of those little gardens where rowhomes were demolished.

The homeowner next door acquired the property, cleaned it up and planted pleasantness.

Now, with land values soaring under AVI, all this may soon go away. AVI is here to stay – but it does not have to be started ALL AT ONCE.

Out & About (Cont. From Page 14) more money for schools. He’s not even going to demand the state give the School District back to the city.

(I got the answer for that last one when the late Arlene Ackerman was dispatched as Superintendent.)

And to Mondesire, it shows a failure in leadership. “We were hoping he would lead,” he said. “It’s disappointing that he isn’t.”

For Gym, the closings are a manifestation of a deeper problem. “It’s as if we’re slowly defunding public education,”

she said.

Mondesire hasn’t ruled out filing a civil-rights complaint against the District should it make good on its closing plans.

And to be honest, the fact a disproportionate number of the closings are still hitting North Philadelphia makes a complaint based on civil rights a righteous one.

It’s not too late for parents and others to make their voices heard. The SRC meeting starts at 3:00.

But like most good fights, I’d get there early if you want ringside seats....

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Waffleman (Cont. From Page 14) the good fortune to run into the ones I do, and the eyesight to tell the difference.

Now, I think you’re supposed to share this with five or six, maybe 10 others. Oh heck, give it to a bunch of your friends if you can remember who they are! Always remember this: You don’t stop laughing because you grow old; you grow old because you stop laughing.

onds to chat. During the Rendell mayoralty, he was depicted in a skit (Society of Professional Journalists Dinner), wearing a hard hat, and answering eight phones with “Office of the real Mayor.”

ALL THIS media attention to Nonprofits is germane to city revenue levels. Let’s hope big TAX-EXEMPTS like the endowed University of Pennsylvania kick in BIG!... NONPROFITS should not draw attention from AVI, however.

For tax DELINQUENTS, maybe more civil-service personnel to collect (instead of contractors) are needed. You read where the Revenue Dept. says

Page 21

(Cont. From Page 14) for his party. He shall return!

LABOR LEADER Rita URWITZ was given a fine sendoff after a full life. On hand to pay homage at the service was John DOUGHERTY, Local 98 IBEW Business Manager; Judge Kevin DOUGHERTY; Councilmen Bobby HENON and Jim KENNEY; and Mike BONNETTI, DC 47 Officer.... The St. Patrick’s Observance Association lost a grand member with the passing of Paul J. PHILLIPS, Jr. Paul was a fiscal advisor to so many

groups. At age 89, he finally and peacefully “crossed the river and rests in the shade of the trees.” And Ali ROBINSON left this life. Brother of the late State Sen. Hardy WILLIAMS and State Sen. Anthony Williams’ Uncle, he was reported to be a top campaign strategist.

GET-WELL PRAYERS are in order to Joe WISEMAN, who underwent heart surgery to replace 18-year-old pacemakers, whose wiring was crumbling and clogging; so Joe of the Drexel Board and 1st Regiment will go digital in Bucks Co. at age 84. Best wishes also to Joanne DiBELLA in Brigantine, N.J.!

“Dr.” Joanne has nursed so many persons back to health, in two states, that it is our time to pray for her recovery....

MUCH has been said of Comcast’s David COHEN as a Democrat powerbroker. Really he may be that at highest levels.

You won’t see him campaigning for a state legislator. He is so busy at the Pennsylvania Society, that I got but a few sec-

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DIVERSITY MYTH Part 110/120

Gay Diversity...Quest For Facts Re: "I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."

--Bill Cosby, Comedian/Mentor, Aug 19, 2008

In a Nov 30, 2012 Philadelphia Gay News editorial by publisher Mark Segal, he wrote eloquent and congratulatory words about Philadelphia saying our metropolis is "the nation's most gayfriendly city--better than New York City, better than Los Angeles, better than D.C. and yes, better than even San Francisco. ...What Philly has done is provide a lesson in equality other cities can emulate... it took us about 40 years.. .since 1969, we have worked to create community where there was none...'

The writer got to the point by saying, "WE EMBRACE DIVERSITY, IN AND OUT OF OUR COMMUNITY." (emphasis added) On behalf of all Philadelphians, I would like for him to respond in a future editorial to these questions:

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1. Where is diversity when the gay life style advocates males sexually embracing other males, and likewise females with females?

Science says that likeness plus likeness equals another likeness.

No diversity in the gay life styles here.

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3. Where is normalcy when a good dictionary defines the word 'perversion,' as: (L. pervertere, to overturn, corrupt; per-intens. + vertere, to turn)... abnormal form. 3. any of various sexual acts or practices deviating from what is considered normal.

(Here, 'normals' practice diversity according to my dictionary.)

4. In the writer's mind, is there a distinction between (a) what is sexual normalcy, and (b) sexual non-normalcy? If so, what are the differentiations?

Lastly, diversity and equality became silent in the writer's editorials, re: Tyler Clementi's act of suicide by jumping off a bridge shortly after being publicly exposed for having a brief affair with another male. It is not too late for the writer to publish his views on Tyler's life style, and premature death.

“You’ve Got a Friend in Pennsylvania” —Nicola Argentina (c) 2013

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

2. Where is the diversity when (according to Webster's New World Dictionary of the American Language), 'homosexuality' is defined as: 1. sexual desire for those of the same sex. 2. sexual relations between indivuals of the same sex. (I see no diversity here, too.)

The Public Record • March 7, 2013

Page 22

City Hall Sam (Cont. From Page 14) BRETT MANDEL and MICHAEL WILLIAMS, will likely show up and attempt

2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134

to receive the endorsement.

This always creates nervous tension bordering on hostility between candidates. Chairman Brady always does a nice job of achieving gender and racial

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

balance on the ticket. The Philadelphia Democratic Party represents tremendous diversity and, unlike most big cities, the official ticket usually accurately reflects that diversity.

In Philadelphia it is often helpful for would-be judge candidates to be escorted into the policy committee by well-respected ward leaders. Some candidates are escorted by more than one ward leader, which is also helpful. But at the end of the day, Brady and the policy committee will select the ticket which most reflects Democratic Party values and also achieves highest probability of a successful election. Even though the

party does not deliver success at the same rate as perhaps a decade ago, it delivers at a farhigher rate than other big cities.

Also the candidate has a fargreater chance of getting elected with the endorsement than without it. It also helps to be a great fundraiser, which gives candidates a chance of appearing on as many Democratic ballots as possible.

Another issue aiding the likelihood of becoming a judge is a good place on the ballot. It is quite difficult for someone

Elephant Corner (Cont. From Page 14) Grant. The grant will be for school districts and may be used for school safety, enhanced kindergarten programs, individualized learning, and improved math and science classes. Approximately $200 million of these funds will be allocated to fiscal 2013-14.

While the State does profit from the sale of wine and spirits, the Corbett Administration

who draws the number-one position to be defeated for election; therefore it’s also in the interest of the party to endorse the likely winner. Since this is an off-year election, the party has greater control on election day. The voter turnout will likely be lower than usual, so the influence of committee people and the official party ballot will be significantly greater.

STATE TREASURER ROB McCORD and STATE SEN. DAYLIN LEACH were on the panel for the Progressive expects it will make as much from income taxes and sales taxes from increased sales. The privatization is to be phased in over a four-year period.

HOUSE MAJORITY LEADER MIKE TURZAI proposed HB 790 this week, which was on the whole compatible with the Administration’s plan. Turzai had 28 cosponsors of the bill. Late Tuesday, Committee Chairman Taylor circulated a potential alternative to the bill. Taylor’s plan would keep state stores open.

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CONGRESSWOMAN ALLYSON SCHWARTZ garnered roughly 37% of the summit’s delegates in a straw poll for Governor. Political operative TOM NARDI attended the summit on behalf of STATE SEN. MIKE STACK, who may be a candidate for Governor.

Grocery stores could sell beer and wine, and beer distributors would have the opportunity to get licenses to sell liquor and wine.

Conservative voices almost immediately have called for people to protest Taylor’s amendment.

MATTHEW BROUILLETTE, president of the Commonwealth Foundation, which supports Corbett’s plan, said this “proposal keeps the government in the business of selling wine and spirits. Pennsylvanians want the ease of purchasing alcohol in grocery stores and convenience stores — the same conveniences afforded to the citizens in most states. The proposal maintains the PLCB’s conflict of interest. The PLCB should serve as the regulator of wine and spirits, not the purveyor. Pennsylvanians do not believe the sale of alcohol is a core function of government.”

Turzai would like to bring the bill to a vote on Mar. 18.

However, given the material difference between the Taylor amendment and Corbett’s wishes, the process may be lengthier. While I expect Corbett’s plan to be modified, I think the final version will involve the widespread private ownership of liquor stores.

Pennsylvania and Utah are the only states that require stateowned stores to be the sole purveyors of wine and spirits which are not consumed on premises.

It is not surprising that Utah, the home of the Mormon religion that shuns alcohol, would have significant controls over the sale of liquor. However, the fact the state-store system still exists in Pennsylvania, where most of its citizens want it abolished, is stunning.

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(Cont. From Page18) must also adopt an ordinance regulating per capita payments to tribe members. Such ordinances must also be approved by the Interior Secretary.

In this case, each bankruptcy debtor was a qualified member of the Lower Sioux tribe. Each member’s right to casino revenue allocation payments was contingent on the Lower Sioux tribe’s decision to make a distribution of net profits to its members.

The Lower Sioux tribe’s revenue allocation ordinance contained a section entitled “Antialienation/Spendthrift Provisions,” which stated: “… The per capita payments are periodic payments, not a property right…. Additionally, no benefit, right or interest of any Community Member under this Ordinance … shall be subject to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment pledge, encumbrance or charge, seizure, attachment or other legal, equitable or other process….”

The Chapter 7 trustee argued Minnesota law should govern whether a member’s future tribal revenue-allocation payments should be deemed property of the bankruptcy estate. The court re-

jected the trustee’s argument, stating the Lower Sioux tribe had the sole authority to characterize tribe members’ rights, if any, in future casino payments.

There were compelling historical reasons for this. The Lower Sioux had long ago lost much of its land to the State of Minnesota in return for periodic per capita payments to tribe members. These payments were often made late, and when they were eventually made, tribe members had often assigned their future payment rights to unscrupulous white traders, in return for subsistence goods. The goods were often sold to Indians at outrageous prices, and then marked up by the traders even further with false charges, resulting in “repetitive cycles of assignments and rip-offs.

The traders got rich and the Sioux got screwed.”

The bankruptcy court’s vivid summary of the history of assignments of Indian per capita payments provided a sound basis for its ruling that the Lower Sioux ordinance was controlling law, which prevented the Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee from taking the future casinorevenue payments from the tribe members.

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