Panepinto Jewelers
Ron Panepinto Karen Panepinto-Minarcik 700 Sansom St. • Phila., PA 19106 Tel: 215-923-1980 email: info@panepintojewelers.com www.PanepintoJewelers.com
Vol. VI No. 47 (Issue 321)
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19114 215-698-7000 PhillyRecord.com
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Preserving a Sacred Legacy
November 21, 2013
Only One Casino Proposal Can Deliver This Jackpot
See Page 2 Variety of Cigarettes • Cigars • Pipes • Hookahs • Novelty Items Lottery and More! $2 Off Total Purchase 10% Off Boxed Cigar Sets LEGACY of a Lower Moyamensing nun who passed away in September, lives on as friends and family members of Sister M. Paula Beierschmitt, shown here rally to save Sacred Arts Academy, and her Our Lady of Guadalupe sculpture.
by Maria Merlino When Sister M. Paula Beierschmitt passed away suddenly in September, many wondered what would happen to the American Academy of the Sacred Arts, which she founded and ran for many years at 16th & Porter Streets. Also, many asked what would become of the Our Lady of Guadalupe bronze sculpture she had planned to
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install at Carto’s Funeral Home on S. Broad Street. At a meeting on Sunday, trustees of the American Academy of the Sacred Arts, 16th & Porter Streets, agreed to form a committee to raise money for the stature. It was the first time the group had met since Sister Paula passed away suddenly on Sep. 28. (Cont. Page 2)
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Page 2 The South Philadelphia Public Record • November 21, 2013
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) Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick
Vice-President: Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella
Board Members John Savarese Mark Rago
Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti
Preserving Sister Paula’s Legacy
(Cont. From Page 1) Chaired by William Maffucci Esq., a long-time legal counsel to Sister Paula, the meeting begun with the election of Maffucci as a member of the Board of Trustees and interim President and Secretary. Artist Steve Kilpatrick was selected by Sister Paula, months before her death as the sculptor for the Guadalupe Project.” “We need to raise $250,000 to complete the statue,” MafSISTER PAULA Beierschmitt’s siblings Karl Beierschmitt and Paula Luskus, with interim AASA President and Secre- fucci said. “The foundry needs tary Willam Maffucci, Esq. at meeting on Sunday at Sacred we selected to pour the bronze in the lost-wax method, can Arts Academy. Photo by Maria Merlino give us a break on the price,
but we also need to think of the future up keep of the installation,” he said. “My sister always dreamed of having not only an Academy of Sacred Art, but a museum of liturgical art, including dance, poetry and song,” said Paula Luskus. Luskus, a nurse, is also Sister Paula's sibling. “We were close," she said. "She took my name when she entered the convent.” Not seeing a need to close the Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Luskus feels the mission must move forward and con-
tinue to make it happen. “My sister was a great gift,” Luskus said. “She was like a Michelangelo -- able to see what a lump of matter could become. “She saw the soul,” Luskus said. Luskus’ grandson, T.J. Billard, attended the meeting on Sunday. Billard, a senior at George Washington University in Washington D.C., said he plans to move to Philadelphia after graduation and find a job in the music field. His parents worked for the State (Cont. Page 14)
It’s called LoSo, after its location in South Philadelphia adjacent to the Casino Revolution development planned at Front Street & Pattison Avenue by PHL Local Gaming, LLC. LoSo will bring to Philadelphians attractions such as foodand-beverage and retail businesses, soccer fields, racquet sports, an indoor swimming pool, a zip-line park, rock-climbing facilities, a golf driving range, a dry ski/skateboarding park, a water park, and areas devoted to music and live entertainment. Top restaurant brands have already expressed interest in becoming a part of the entertainment complex. They include Bassett’s Original Memphis Pit BBQ, Rice & Company Sushi Bar, Lucky Strike Bowling Lanes, Bobby’s Burger Palace, Texas De Brazil Brazilian Steakhouse, and Fame Night Market & Ultra Lounge. PHL’s President Joseph Canfora said his company believes the Philadelphia City Planning Commission’s report, among other things, substan-
rank those properties as if those projections had been credibly done; 5) in a city wherein 63% of the residents are racially or ethnically diverse, seemed to totally ignore the issue of economic diversity or inclusion on the part of the eventual licensee; 6) in a globally recognized “city of neighborhoods”, seemed not to assign very much weight in its rankings, if any, to the quality of the relationship the bidders are experiencing in their neighboring communities – relative levels of neighborhood intrusiveness, curiously, seemed not to be considered at all; 7) despite the Commonwealth’s inclusion of the issue of “responsible gaming” as a licensee-selection criterion, and the vocal and demonstrated support for the concept at the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board’s hearings, totally overlooked that issue in the commission’s document; 8) specifically related to PHL Local Gaming, which
has the unique capacity to expand revenues, jobs, and business opportunities with a 5,000-slot facility, the Planning Commission’s report seemed to focus only on a single year, or first-year, economic-impact analysis. Such an approach, said Canfora, ignores the true, long-term economic potential of the bids. The City Planning Commission may propose, but the Gaming Control Board disposes. It has the power to spread the benefits of a second casino around more of Philadelphia than Center City alone. If successful in its bid for the available casino-management license in Philadelphia, PHL Local Gaming, LLC plans to open Casino Revolution, a $428-million, four-star quality, “destination-caliber”, 250-room hotel and gaming facility. The casino will offer, in its first year of operation, 2,400 slots, 105 table games, a steakhouse, a coffee/espresso bar, a highend Italian restaurant, a 300seat buffet, a 156-seat cafe,
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Only One Casino Can Deliver Major Entertainment Complex tially underrepresented the economic impact at its proposed site, by ignoring PHL Local’s singular potential to expand to 5,000 slots and its unique capacity to “open early” and produce 600 jobs, $41.6 million in state and local taxes and $10.4 million in wages for Philadelphians, at least six months before any other bidder could open for business. In addition to Casino Revolution’s gaming-specific impact, LoSo could reasonably and conservatively generate $278 million in annual revenues, create 2,459 full-time jobs, 2,317 construction jobs and 15 million annual visitors, all while generating nearly $29 million in state and local tax revenues. These facts went unnoticed by the Planning Commission when it recommended to the state Gaming Control Board that one of the three proposed Center City locations be chosen for the city’s second casino. PHL Local Gaming has “serious concerns” about the Planning Commission’s casino
rankings, said Canfora. He stated the commission’s report: 1) seemed to be a thinly disguised justification to use casino investors’ funds to promote development in areas separately prioritized by the City, such as the N. Broad Street Corridor, the Market E. Corridor and the Pennsylvania Convention Center; 2) seemed to be dismissive of the need for jobs, contracts and neighborhood development in South Philadelphia, implying the community would be better served by remaining an area dominated by industrial/distribution businesses; 3) asserted inaccurately on Page 41 that the three proposed South Philadelphia casinos “do not present overall programs that highly differentiate themselves from SugarHouse and its customer base;” 4) after disclosing, on Page 46, that every one of the thensix bidders — except PHL Local Gaming — had overstated its gaming-revenue projections, disregarded its own findings and proceeded to
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Saidel At Tikvah
FOP Lodge 5 And Auxiliary Offers Museum Tickets
President John McNesby, Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, and the FOP Lodge 5 Auxiliary this week announced the 6th annual Coats For Kids sponsored by Lodge 5 and the Lodge 5 Auxiliary, which has been extended to the end of November, has partnered with the Mütter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, located at 19 S. 22nd Street, to offer free admissions to the always interesting Mütter Museum, for a donation of new coats and hats and gloves. The offer is : 1 new coat
donated= 2 free admissions; and a new hat and gloves combo donated= 1 free admission. McNesby noted, “This year we urgently need all sizes, not just infant and toddler. Hats and gloves are in need also. As in years past collection boxes are placed in various Police districts and at FOP Headquarters.” For further info contact Lodge 5 Auxiliary President Kathe Rowan, (215) 5822049. Teamsters Battle Back At Yuengling Brewery
Don’t buy or drink Yuengling beer. Dick Yuengling threw the Teamsters out of his Pottsville brewery and now is pushing for a right-to-work-for-less bill in Harrisburg. Organized labor responded with a large rally in Pottsville. They marched to the courthouse and remembered the 10 Molly Maguires who were convicted and hanged for standing up for their rights in 1870. Six of them were hanged at the jail behind the courthouse. Several hundred union members marched and rallied with signs saying, “Stop Dick.” Yuengling threatened that if the union didn’t leave he would move his brewery to Mexico.
Union Labor…Building it right for a better and stronger community And promoting renaissance of North Broad St. Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: 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
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www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
HON. JONATHAN SAIDEL will serve as Master of Ceremonies at Tikvah/AJMI Awards Brunch this Sunday at Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El in Wynnewood from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Michael J. Covone, former Deputy Commissioner of Phila. Dept. of Behavioral Health & Intellectual disAbility Services, and former Deputy Health Commissioner, will receive Righteous Person Award. Tickets are $100 for a non-member, and $50 for Tikvah member. Call (215) 832-0671 for reservations.
been reserved for the nights of Feb. 3 and 4. Reservations can be made online http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/aflcio2014 or you may contact the hotel directly at 1 (888) 627-7212 and identify yourself as a member of “The 2014 Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO Leadership group” to receive the negotiated rates. Reserving a room at the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel does not automatically register you for the leadership conference. All participants must register individually. For further information, contact Joni Bernard at (215) 665-9800 ext. 206.
TRAINED SKILLS
The Public Record • November 21, 2013
More than 140 locals affiliated with the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO will gather at its 11th Annual Leadership Conference in Atlantic City, Feb. 2-4 at the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel. President Pat Eiding said there is a variety of sponsorships available, including hosting a cocktail reception, super bowl party, dinner, lunch, continental breakfast or setting up an exhibit. The fee for an exhibit table is $1,000, which includes all of your meals, a draped table, and chairs which are provided. The cost of the social functions varies in price. Sponsors are invited to participate in a raffle to be held on Feb. 3 dinner session of the conference. For accommodation purposes, a block of rooms have
NORTH BRO N O A
TREET DS
Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO Hosts 11th Annual Leadership Conference
NOW BA CK
UNION LABOR
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With the UNIONS
The Public Record • November 21, 2013
Page 4
Kenyatta Gets Early Primary Foe by Joe Shaheeli Ori Feibush, a businessman who says he’s helped breathe new life into South Street West and Point Breeze Avenue commercial corridors, has announced he intends to challenge 2nd Dist. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson in the Democratic primary two years hence. He indicated he’s doing so because, he says, “Whether the economy is up or down and whether the policies are popular or not, our leaders must have the willingness to dream big and the fortitude to do the right thing for their constituents. Our city, and the neighborhoods within the 2nd Councilmanic Dist., deserve a partner in City Hall that’s committed to doing everything possible to make things better.” State Representative
Capozzi in his initial campaign for 2nd Dist. seat. The Councilman has been working hard to widen that margin with numerous street anti-crime rallies and community-outreach programs.
Stats To Digest In Mayor’s Race
1ST WARD and union leader John Dougherty shares moment with Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and wife Dawn Chavous at 26th Ward celebration for Terry Dintino, wife of Ward Leader Jim Dintino.
Feibush added, “We’ve installed dozens of security cameras and cleaned up many vacant lots. We have contributed to local schools and charities, and recently formed a not-for-profit to help neighbors and businesses. We’ve done all of this through challenging economic and political times here in Philadelphia.” His first campaign event
W. Curtis Thomas 530 W. Girard Avenue Phila., PA 19123 P: 215-560-3261 F: 215-560-2152 Getting Results for the People! www.pahouse.com/Thomas
Rep.Maria P.
Donatucci
D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164
State Rep. Cherelle
]|ÅÅç W|Çà|ÇÉ GOP (215) 468-2300
Parker 200th Legislative District 1536 E. Wadsworth Ave. Phone: (215) 242-7300 Fax: (215) 242-7303 www.pahouse.com/Parker
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
STATE REP. JOHN
SABATINA JR. 174th District 8100 Castor Ave Phila, PA 19152 T: 215-342-6204
will be held at OCF Coffee House on Dec. 12, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Please RSVP to ofeibush@gmail.com. A Councilman Johnson ordinance aimed at slowing the gentrification of Point Breeze is seen as responsible for the Feibush challenge. Another factor could be attributed to the narrow 45-vote margin by which Johnson beat Barbara State Representative
Stephen Kinsey 201st Legislative District 5537 Germantown Ave Phila PA 19144 Phone: 215-849-6592 Fax: 215-560-1824 www.pahouse.com/Kinsey
Interesting to note Controller Alan Butkovitz vote is recorded as the third-highest percentage in recent citywide election history. He came in third behind former Controller Jonathan Saidel, who ranked one in 2001 with 84.33%, and Mayor Michael Nutter, who garnered in 2007 82.52% of the total votes cast. Butkovitz is now third with 82.38%. This could fuel Butkovitz’s thoughts about entering the Mayor’s race. We had just mentioned Tom Knox’s decision to enter mayoral race, when he did what he has so frequently in past races -- announced a change of mind. He’s out. Still in are State Sen. Anthony Williams (D-W. Phila.), seen as a frontrunner; Council President Darrell
A veterans’ services coordinator is now available by appointment at my office at 8016 Bustleton Ave. to assist with various veterans issues, including housing for homeless vets, access to medical services, obtaining medals for surviving families and more. To make an appointment, please call 215-695-1020. 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
State Senator
Larry Farnese First Senate District Tel. 215-952-3121 1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145
www.SenatorFarnese.com
Clarke; Councilman Jim Kenney; Councilwoman Maria Quiñones Sánchez, Councilman Bill Green; and former Republican Councilman Frank Rizzo, who is changing his registration to Democrat. Now, all could be serious contenders if Council manages to pass a Charter Revision allowing city office-holders to retain their seats when seeking another office. Would the floodgates open then!
Gubernatorial Facts Keep On Changing
We all know Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (DNortheast) leads the primary race to challenge Gov. Corbett next year. So the polls say. But now we get her leading with Katie McGinty on her heels, followed by Rob McCord, John Hanger, Ed Pawlowski and Tom Wolf. That’s before we get to see their ads on television or in this newspaper. Schwartz is strongest in her Southeastern Pennsylvania home base, where she takes 45% of the vote. The Councilman
Mark
Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332
215-686-3458/59
Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT
Representative
Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District
Rep. Rosita
Youngblood District 198th District 310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148 1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131
P: 215-849-6426
(215) 879-6615 State Rep.
State Rep.
Brendan F.
Boyle 170th Dist. 14230 Bustleton Ave. Phila., PA 19116
215-676-0300 R EPRESENTATIVE
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Congresswoman, who lives in Montgomery Co. but who serves part of Northeast Philadelphia, has led in every independent poll of the primary thus far. Gov. Tom Corbett seems to have gotten a reprieve in local polling, despite the fact some polls see his candidacy in jeopardy. His ally has become President Barack Obama, whose Obamacare debut snafu has cut the presidential coattails, jeopardizing some nervous Nellies in the Democratic caucus in the State Assembly and Congress. Hoping to salvage some of loss of voter allegiance are local Democratic legislators who are holding Obamacare signups themselves. Voters in every income and age group disapprove of the job Obama is doing, with the biggest disapproval, 5936%, among voters over 65 years old, according to a Quinnipiac Poll. For the first time, American voters say 52-44% that Obama is not honest and trustworthy. His previous lowest marks on honesty were May 30, when 49% of voters said he was. (Cont. Next Page)
A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE
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Mark B.
COHEN 215-924-0895 202nd Legislative District
7012 Castor Ave., 1st Fl. Philadelphia PA 19149 State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600
minutes to the gathering of about 120 people at the event for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and emphasized the importance of a Democratic Congress. “We have been blessed by a Democratic Senate,” the President said. “That list of accomplishments is really a partnership.” Obama said he had three years left in office and that “in addition to fixing a website” – which drew a huge laugh from the crowd – he wants to rebuild infrastructure. State Rep.
John
Taylor (R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137
215-744-2600
It’s Anyone’s Race In 13th District!! Dr. Val Arkoosh has hired Stephen Rudman, an attorney based in Montgomery Co. as her new political director. Rudman has a background working with local civic and political groups. Positions he has held include treasurer for Pennsylvania Young Democrats, secretary for Montgomery Co. Young Democrats, vice-chair of the Philadelphia chapter of Americans for Democratic Action, and vice-chair of the State Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
215-271-9190
DeFelice Addresses House Committee Pennsylvania House State Government Committee Majority Chairman, State Rep. Daryl Metcalfe (R-Butler), convened a public hearing to focus on solutions to improve the administration, oversight and integrity of the Commonwealth’s election process.
Councilman Wm.
Greenlee
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
Senator Tina
Tartaglione 2nd Dist. 127 W. Susquehanna Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19122
1063 Bridge St. Philadelphia, PA 19124
215-291-4653
215-533-0440
Kitchen 3rd Sen. District 1701 W. Lehigh Ave. Suite 104 Phila., PA 19132
215-227-6161
www.senatorkitchen.com
SEPTA officials lauded the
STATE SENATOR
LEANNA M. WASHINGTON DISTRICT OFFICE
1555-D Wadsworth Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19150 (215) 242-0472 Fax: (215) 753-4538 WEB SITE www.senatorwashington.com
Always Hard At Work for You! State Senator
Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 • Fax: (215) 492-2990
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
State Sen. Shirley M.
Philly House Caucus Saved Trans. Bill
work of State Rep. Cherelle Parker, chairperson of the Philadelphia Democratic Caucus, and its members for fighting hard in getting passed the transportation bill for which the agency had campaigned over the past year. The bill received all Philadelphia House votes except for State Rep. John Sabatina, Jr. Should the bill pass the Senate this week, SEPTA will be able to begin work on needed infrastructure repairs. It expects to get $340 million from the $475 million earmarked for public transportation. This marked a rare legislative triumph for the Philadelphia metropolitan area in a legislature that has been dominated by rural lawmakers since the Republican takeover of the General Assembly in 2010.
The Public Record • November 21, 2013
THIS POLAROID shot was made of President John F. Kennedy with Congressman Bill Green and Mayor Richardson Dilworth when Kennedy was on campaign swing in Phila. by Joe Stivala, our columnist.
Specific legislation discussed included HB 1142 (eliminating political material inside election polling centers); HB 1371 (criminalizing the circulation and submission of nominating petitions with false signatures); HB 1572 (eliminating straight party ballot voting); HB 1827 (permitting registered voters to monitor any election district); HB 1830 (increasing criminal penalties for voter intimidation); and, HB 1835 (allowing registered county electors to fill vacant minority inspector positions). Joseph DeFelice, Esq., executive director, Philadelphia Republican City Committee, was among those testifying.
Page 5
(Cont. From Prev. Page) This could influence the outcome in the State Senate next time around. Democrats made historic gains in the there in 2012, winning three seats where GOP incumbents retired. Republicans now hold a 27-23 majority. But the picture in 2014 could see a reversal favorable for the GOP. Eight State Senate districts are in play in 2014. Democrats would need to win six of them to get to a pure majority in the chamber. Or they could win five seats and win the Governor’s race (the Lieutenant Governor casts the deciding vote in a 25-25 tie). Midterm elections tend to favor the party opposite the President, and Obama’s numbers give Democrats little comfort. President Obama sees Pennsylvania as crucial to Democratic plans. That is why he headlined a big-bucks fundraiser at the Northwest Philadelphia home of Comcast Corp. executive David L. Cohen. Obama spoke for about 10
Young Democrats of America’s Jewish Caucus. Brendan Boyle (D-Northeast) scored another endorsement this week in his bid for PA-13. The FOP Lodge 37, which represents Montgomery and Philadelphia Cos., is backing the State Rep. Adrian Shanker, who recently stepped down as President of Equality Pennsylvania, is supporting State Sen. Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery). “He has been one of the strongest champions and fiercest advocates for LGBT equality in the Pennsylvania legislature,” Shanker wrote in an email to Leach’s supporters.
VOLUNTEERS help pack Thanksgiving trimmings at Gibson Temple Baptist Church, 29th & Marston Streets, for free turkey giveaway hosted by Pond Lehocky Stern Giordano.
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TEAM FROM LAW FIRM of Pond Lehocky Partners was pleased to participate in turkey giveaway. In front row are Willow Williams, Jessica Griffin, Keld Wenge, Esq., Melissa Chandy, Esq., Paul Tarares, Gloria Alvini, Alycia Hacket, Brynn Lapszynski, Esq., Apollo Cortes, Calah Bullard, Allison Kaufmann, partner Jerry Lehocky, Esq. Back row: Stephanie Connolly, Christopher Fox, Esq., Alexis Ouseley, Esq., Anna Nicole Lee, Robert Butts, Sr., Robert Butts, Jr. and Andrew Ruder, Esq.
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The Public Record • November 21, 2013
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Pond Lehocky Kicks Off Thanksgiving Turkey Drive
DEACON Robert Hammond and Phillip H. Griffin, Sr. checked people in at door at turkey giveaway at Gibson Temple Baptist Church.
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VOLUNTEERS help distribute Thanksgiving dinners at Pond Lehocky Stern Giordano turkey drive, held at Gibson Temple Baptist Church, 29th & Marston Streets.
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Page 7
Our Opinion Transportation Crisis
The South Philadelphia Public Record • November 21, 2013
Another Opinion
TO: Mr. Secretary John Wetzel, Penna. Secretary of Corrections FROM: Inmate Dante Overby, SCI Rockview I saw your testimony about reducing the federal prison population on C-SPAN 2 and it appeared to me you were out of touch with reality. You testified Pennsylvania has “closed two prisons.” Reality is, those prisons were closed for repairs; funds have just become available in the state budget for those repairs; and both prisons are slated for reopening, in addition to the opening of a new prison, SCI Benner.
You also testified, under the policies you promulgated, “Pennsylvania [state prisons] saw a reduction in the prison population.” Reality is, that statement does not take into account the backlog of newly sentenced prisoners who languish in county jails due to the lack of bed-space in state prisons, nor does it account for those state prisoners who are being sent from state prisons to county jails to serve state sentences, in violation of 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9762 (a)(1), and they are all wards of the state. And then you testified, “Drug use is the biggest driver of prison populations.”
memory of Amee Willard. For info (215) 223-5881. Nov. 26- Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown hosts Environnment Gathering at Cira Centre, 2929 Arch St., Suite 250, Mezzanine level. 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Tickets $100. RSVP Lindsey (267) 275-2120. Nov. 30- State Rep. Stephen Kinsey feeds 1,000 at Philippian Baptist Church, 5801 N.
Broad St., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For info (215) 849-6592. Nov. 30- State Rep. Bill Keller sponsors Affordable Care Act Marketplace signup & information event at EOM Community Bldg., 140 Moore St., 12-3 p.m. For info (215) 271-9190. Dec. 2- United Republican Club celebrates 133rd Anniversary as it hosts Gov. & Mrs. Tom Corbett at Society
Busted By An Inmate Reality is, in Pennsylvania there are three drivers of the prison population: • People who violate their county probation/parole are resentenced to a term of state incarceration, in violation of 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 5505. • The State Parole Board “taking the street time” of those who violate the terms of parole, in violation of 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 5505. • The Pennsylvania Parole Board is at liberty to keep the prisons overcrowded by giving out “hits” to prisoners who are not to their liking, instead of release
being governed by statute like it is in California and Nebraska. I penned this missive because I liken your testimony on this topic to “the blind leading the blind”, as your testimony was based largely on misinformation. To help cure your blindness, I have armed you with the realitybased drivers of the Pennsylvania prison population. Decarcerate Pennsylvania! (EDITOR’S NOTE: The Philadelphia Public Record is delivered each week by mail to several hundred inmates in state prisons who call Philadelphia home.)
Hill Sheraton, Front & Dock Sts., 5:30-7 p.m. For info (215) 545-2244. Dec. 5- State Rep. John Savatinsa holds Fundraiser at Happy Rooster, 16th & Sansom, 5-7 p.m. Dec. 7- First Archdiocesan Catholic Women’s Conference, at Phila. Convention Ctr., 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All women invited, married, single, and con-
secrated. Opens with Mass by Archbishop Chaput. For info (215) 587-5000. Dec. 13-15- Penna. Society weekend in New York City’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Guest of honor at banquet on 14th is VP Joe Biden. Dec. 13- Izzy Fitzgerald’s 10th Ward “Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show.” H & H Community Center, 2036 E. Haines St.
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As we went to press and began delivering this paper all across the city, the State Senate was deliberating the final passage of a transportation bill that took three votes in the State House to pass, and then only with an amendment. Hence the need for the state’s Senators to deliberate its future, which we understand, had enough votes in that Chamber of the General Assembly to pass. What made this transportation bill so important is the fact SEPTA, the key public transportation authority providing easy transportation for our working school populations, was in dire need of state funding, the kind this bill would provide. Though much will go to repairing roadways and bridges, key to such public transportation, SEPTA would benefit and be able to make its needed repairs. Too often in the last three years, Southeastern Pennsylvania – even though its large, diverse economy drives the rest of the state and generates more than its share of tax revenue to be shared with Midstate and Western Pennsylvania, much of which is languishing in a long-term decline. But Southeastern Pennsylvania is densely settled. This goose cannot deliver its golden eggs without a public-transit network that is suitable to a major metropolitan area. Rural and exurban areas which are utterly dependent on highways for survival would actually lose, not gain, if their representatives in the General Assembly were allowed to sabotage the economic locomotive that enables them to afford those highways. Anti-urban prejudice may please their voters, but their lawmakers must be wise enough to ignore it and face reality: The country needs a healthy city. As this was typed, we crossed our fingers hoping the Senate would finally join the House and deliver to this long-neglected region of the Commonwealth the relief it sorely needs. Mtg. at Triumph Baptist Ch., 1648 W. Hunting Pk. Ave., 68 p.m. For info (215) 849-6426. Nov. 21- State Sen. Shirley Kitchen, State Rep. Stephen Nov. 21- State Rep. Rosita Kinsey and Ward Leader Youngblood sponsors Diaper Shirley Gregory host “UnderDrive with Nana’s Legacy at standing Medicare and the New Dist. Office, 310 W. Chelten Enrollment Process at PhilipAve., 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. pian Gardens, 5110 N. 6th St., Donations sought. For info 6 p.m. For info (215) 849-6592. Nov. 22- Mayfair Civic Ass’n (215) 849-6426. Nov. 21- Right to Education hosts Beef & Beer to raise Local Task Force hosts “Meet funds for legal appeal against Your Philadelphia Public Edu- Healing Way Methadone cation Advocates” at Vision for Clinic, at Parish Pub, 3530 Equality, 718 Arch St., 5:30-7 Cottman Ave., 7-10 p.m. p.m. Meet different advocates Tickets $30. Well drinks, who work with children with draft beer, $1 bottles, food disabilities. Refreshments and live entertainment, raffle. food. Dolores Brown Waters Nov. 22- Asian Federation of and Melissa Sullivan are co- the US hosts Banquet & Pochairs. For info (215) 400- lice Night at Imperial Inn, 142 5151, or email N. 10th St. For info (215) philadelphialtf26@gmail.com. 534-1140. RSVP the Arc (215) 229-4550, Nov. 23- Willard Family sponsors Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner, ext. 126. Nov. 21- State Rep. Rosita at Hero Community Ctr., 3439 Youngblood hosts Community N. 17th St., 12-4 p.m., in
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Sister Paula’s Legacy
(Cont. From Page 2) Dept and took him throughout Europe where he studied in many foreign academies. “Religious art has fallen out of modern art and I want to put it back. I want to do exactly what Sister Paula set out to do-- to instigate a new renaissance in art, to revolutionize it,” he said. “I want to provide opportunities to those who wish to work in art and who love art more than anything else, but leave it because of
practical reasons -- especially the young and the innovative. “Sister Paula wanted to make the Academy an employer for the passionate artistic minds of the future,” added Billard. “Sister talked and wrote about. She wanted the Academy to be a home for art and the birthplace of a new renaissance. And that’s what I want too.” Sister Mary Paula Beierschmitt, IHM, passed away on Sep. 28. She was 72.
PAULA LUSKUS, sister to the late Sister M. Paula Beierschmitt and her grandson T.J. Billard who is also the great-nephew of Sister Paula, stand by a bust of Jeremiah, sculpted by Sister Paula. Photo by Maria Merlino
Mummers Christmas Chorus To Raise Funds For Homeless
Mummers will strut their satin Santa slippers in Pennsport next week to raise money for city's homeless. Joe Schubert and his Mummers Chorus will perform, under the direction of Charles Donnelly, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 3rd & Wolf Streets, 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6.
Donnelly will lead the group as part of the 25th annual benefit concert. Organizers are asking for a $5.00 donation that will benefit PROJECT H.O.M.E., My Brothers House and Philadelphia Catholic Worker organizations. For more information, please contact (215) 334-0584.
I think the School District of Philadelphia’s legal staff needs a refresher course on the Sunshine Law. Under the Sunshine Law, anything any governmental organization is about to do that requires taxpayer money has to be approved in public so there can be comment from citizens in support or in opposition before the expenditure is made. Those decisions include, but aren’t limited to, spending money to build or repair buildings; move tax monies from one section of the government to another; and hiring, firing or laying off personnel. While you’re not allowed to discuss why someone is being fired in public because such personnel decisions are private under law, you are required to have a vote on the firing taken publicly. The idea behind the law was to keep things from happening with public money that the public had no say in. It’s supposed to keep people honest and give the public a voice. But just because the law exists doesn’t mean it’s always followed. Another part of the Sunshine Law says records connected to anything that public money is used for are supposed to be accessible to the public for their review. And then there are times when governing bodies forget that whole “we have to take some votes in public because we’re using public funds” thing. If I had a nickel for every lawsuit filed by a member of the public to stop something that was approved in secret, but had public funds attached, I could get a beach house on a really nice island and never, ever, need money again. This is why I bring up the School District of Philadelphia. (Cont. Page 16)
STATE SEN. ANTHONY WILLIAMS was the guest of honor at a Center City fundraiser last week. MARTY WEINBERG, Chairman of the Obermayer mega-law firm, was master of ceremonies and the event was well attended. Interestingly, COUNCIL PRESIDENT DARRELL CLARKE was also the guest of honor at a fundraiser for Young Democrats. The speculation grows that Clarke may be a serious mayoral contender in the 2015 race. This would cause problems for Williams, the current perceived frontrunner. Why? Because Clarke controls votes in City Council. This could take support and money away from Williams and make the mathematics of the citywide victory much more complex. So what is Williams to do? Williams has been attending every public event possible. He has been actively courting Northeast Ward Leaders in order to add to his current base. Speaking of the Northeast Ward Leaders, their Chairman MIKE McALEER convened a recent meeting. The special guest of honor was CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY. McAleer encouraged Northeast Ward Leaders to endorse Brady for party chairman in advance of the election. The motion was carried unanimously. Brady graciously thanked the group for their support after first joking, “Thank you … I think.” Among the ward leaders in attendance were LORI BEDNAREK, BOBBY HENON, SHAWN DILLON, TOMMY JOHNSON, PEG RZEPSKI, HARRY ENGGASSER, BILL DOLBOW, JANICE SULMAN, JOHN SABATINA, PAT PARKINSON, BERNICE HILL, CONNIE DOUGHERTY, BOB DELLAVELLA and Helen Farrell. The always-reliable LOU FARANELLA also attended to make sure the event was orderly. GOV. TOM CORBETT still struggles in his day-to-day relationship with the legislature and also with voters. It’s too soon to count him out, but he seems incapable of turning things around. On the Democratic side, KATIE McGINTY appears to have some momentum. The former Philadelphia girl, who graduated from St. Hubert’s and is now a Chester Co. resident, could move poll numbers. She recently scored 15% to ALLYSON SCHWARTZ’S 22%. ROB McCORD was third. McGinty argues she is a reasonable alternative to an unelectable Schwartz. Schwartz is thought to be too liberal for Pennsylvania by many but she is clearly the frontrunner in cash and (Cont. Page 16)
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Yo! Here we go again with this rumor– The US government has just passed a new law called: “The Affordable Boat Act” declaring that every citizen must purchase a new boat, by April 2014. These “affordable” boats will cost an average of $54,000-$155,000 each. This does not include taxes, trailers, towing fees, licensing and registration fees, fuel, docking and storage fees, maintenance or repair costs. This law has been passed because until now, typically only wealthy and financially responsible people have been able to purchase boats. This new laws ensures every American can now have an “affordable” boat of their own, because everyone is “entitled” to a boat. If you purchase your boat before the end of the year, you will receive four “free” life jackets; not including monthly usage fees. In order to make sure everyone purchases an affordable boat, the costs of owning a boat will increase on average of 250-400% per year. This way, wealthy people will pay more for something that other people don’t want or can’t afford to maintain. But to be fair, people who can’t afford to maintain their boat will be regularly fined. Children (under the age of 26) can use their parent’s boats to party on until they turn 27; then they must purchase their own boat. If you already have a boat, you can keep yours (just kidding; no you can’t). If you don’t want or don’t need a boat, you are required to buy one anyhow. If you refuse to buy one or can’t afford one, you will be regularly fined $800 until you purchase one. People living in the desert, inner cities or areas with no access to lakes are not exempt. A government review board will decide everything, including; when, where, how often and for what purposes you can use your boat, along with how many people can ride your boat and whether one is too old or healthy enough to be able to use it. They will also decide if you must purchase specific accessories, (like a $500 compass) or a newer and more expensive boat. The government will also decide the name for each boat. Failure to comply with these rules will result in fines. Sound familiar?
We are one day away from the 50th KENNEDY Association Anniversary. It was an exciting time to be alive. It seemed like everyone wanted to serve their country in some way. I remember riding the JFK press bus during his Philly tour, as it passed my high school. We were spotted and called to the principal’s office the next day on “Hooky” charges. Tip O’Neill, in his book, and others discussed Philly support for JFK by the city party chairman, Bill Green. It was as important as the Chicago vote. Many of us yearn for another JFK-type president, but it was not to be. DID YOU ever believe that SINGLE-BULLET explanation? Not me! HAPPY BIRTHDAYS to Pat PARKINSON, popular leader of Ward 57, on the 25th. And to my bruz Garnett LITTLEPAGE (27th), also Mark ENDRES (28th). May the light of freedom shine on him. MONICA SANTORO, dynamic Operations person at Penn’s Landing, has hers on the 29th. MONICA is a KEY ASSET to Penn’s Landing.... SAD losses: The passing of Bill BLACK, Republican leader of Ward 36, puts him on a cloud with his pals Buck Thompson and Lucien BLACKWELL. Boxer, Korea veteran, caring guy, that was Bill. Mary Lou MYERS is now in perfect peace, the eldest sister of Matt MYERS, sorely missed. Tom KNOX is in the mayoral race, then out. Once, during the Pennsylvania Society weekend, he mentioned he would run for Governor. Then he was out. In-out. See-saw? He should QUIT politics.... WORRIED: We should be, with the legislature infrastructure bill defeat. NOT WORRIED: Over the missing write-in votes from 15 divisions. One commissioner seemed (Cont. Page 16)
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full of unintended consequences for individuals in Pennsylvania and the rest of the country. The Obama Administration has had three years to prepare for the rollout of the new law. The first problem encountered was the federal government’s HealthCare.gov website’s (which is integral to the state exchanges) inability to handle the volume. It appears the contactor that is setting up the system only started testing it in September. When it became apparent in mid-October the website had serious problems, the President stated the system would be fixed immediately. Now he hopes it will be fully functioning by the end of November. HENRY CHAO, deputy chief information officer of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, stated at a congressional hearing that 60-70% of the federal website still needs to be created, noting, “There’s the back-office systems, the accounting systems, the payment systems … they still need to be done.” Congress is now concerned the incomplete system will allow unauthorized people to access confidential medical information, leading Pennsylvania CONGRESSMAN TIM MURPHY (RWashington) to declare the website “screams, ‘If you like my health-care information, maybe you can steal it.’” Millions of individuals have received notices from their insurers informing them their policies have been canceled and (Cont. Page 16)
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The Affordable Care Act is unraveling. Then Speaker of the US House of Representatives NANCY PELOSI said three years ago we need to pass the law to see what is in it. Now it appears the Obama Admiration needs to attempt to implement it in order to understand it. The electorate is seeing an unwieldy mess that is chock-
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In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 120901016 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Midfirst Bank, Plaintiff vs. Irene Stallings, Individually and in Her Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Earl Morgan Jr. Administrator of the Estate of Earl Morgan Deceased, Elizabeth H. Watson, Individually and in Her Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Sylvia Johnson, Individually and in Her Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, The Unknown Heirs of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Bernard Hopewell, Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Irvin Hopewell, Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased & Sylvester Hopewell Jr., Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Mortgagors and Real Owners, Defendants To: Elizabeth H. Watson, Individually and in Her Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, The Unknown Heirs of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Bernard Hopewell, Individually and in His Capacity as Heir of Sylvester Hopewell, Sr., Deceased, Defendants, whose last known address is 512 East Roumfort Road, Philadelphia, PA 19150. 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, Midfirst Bank, 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. 120901016, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 512 East Roumfort Road, Philadelphia, PA 19150, 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, 1410 W. Erie Ave., Phila., PA 19140, 215-227-2400/215-981-3700. Philadelphia 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.
Elephant Corner (Cont. From Page 15) directed them to their respective state exchanges. Small businesses have also seen their policies cancelled and are scrambling to find new ones. Many states opted to run the exchanges themselves. Others, including Pennsylvania, decided to let federal government run their exchanges. The Corbett Administration did not believe the federal government had given them sufficient guidance on what the ACA required of the Commonwealth to set up its own exchange. The President on many occasions stated, “If you like your policy, you can keep it.” Well, that appears to be not true. Some conservative con-
Out & About (Cont. From Page 15) This week saw publication of a story about 56 new employees the School District has hired recently. They’re working in various positions, and none of them is making less than $100,000. My problem is these hires weren’t approved in public. But while I don’t condone this in the School District’s case, I can kind of understand. Say you are a School Dis-
Walking (Cont. From Page 15) to GRANDSTAND on this. Another knew it was a MINOR glitch. COUNCIL PRESIDENT Darrell CLARKE is spot on with his plan to delay gentrification deadlines! Councilman Dennis O’BRIEN is also to be praised for his ordinances to give Council say over law firms chosen for citizens where there is a conflict
spiracy theorists believe the website debacle is part of plot to force the country to a single-payer system. Frankly, I just see incompetence. Democrats in both houses of Congress who voted for the law are running for cover, especially those up for reelection next year. A recent Quinnipiac poll has BARACK OBAMA’S approval rating at 39%, with his disapproval rating at 54%. The Obama Administration is now asking the insurance companies to reinstate the plans that were cancelled owing to noncompliance with the ACA for a year. The House of Representatives has a bill backed by 39 Democrats that will allow anyone (including new customers) to buy the cancelled policies. The Presitrict that needed $50 million to open – after closing a gang of schools over the last two years. You’ve cut student programming to the point schools are sharing support staff. And while there hasn’t been a direct connection established, the perception among folks is this lack of support staff led to the asthma death of a student. And you’re also asking your teachers, (teachers that are some of the lowest paid in the Commonwealth, by the way), for Public Defenders. The mayoral proposal is weaker on DUE PROCESS.... Councilpersons Cindy BASS and Jim KENNEY are concerned on firehouse conditions. A recent small blaze in one was caught by firemen. Many Engine and Ladder vehicles are 20 years old, and should get the PRIORITY on maintenance that EMS vehicles do. EMS vehicles generate $38m a year to the City. But I hear that after 8 p.m. the City
dent has vowed to veto that bill. There remain many of us who want to see the ACA repealed, with an increasing number of people who want its implementation delayed in its entirety so it can be fixed. The President and many Democrats, I believe, fear a delay of the ACA in its entirety would be an acknowledgement the law is seriously flawed, so they want to put a few Bandaids on it and move on. With respect to the ACA’s implementation, the President recently asserted, “I’ve got one more campaign in me.” That is the problem in a nutshell. This administration has not gotten the memo that the campaign is over and it is time to govern. to take cuts Dracula himself would distance himself from. I can understand why you might keep the hiring of 56 new people with salaries no less than $100,000 out of the public eye. An angry mob of residents armed with pitchforks and torches can be scary. But my guess is the School Reform Commission felt empowered to do this. Hey, the residents who might protest have no control over the district anyway, right? pulls some units out of service. WHY – when calls are going THROUGH THE ROOF??
City Hall Sam (Cont. From Page 15) perception. The Democratic primary continues to shape up to be an absolute bloodbath in the spring. The Democrats must not make the mistake that they always seem to make, and that is to weaken themselves against a weak Republican.
by Tom Flynn and Rocco DeGregorio Question: My Chrysler station wagon shuts down when I hit a rocky road or turn to climb into a garage. I switch to neutral and it kicks off right away. What could be the causes? Dear reader, Thank you for your ques-
tion. Unfortunately, there is not a straightforward answer to this. It could be various things. It is most likely something electrical. It could be your battery or almost anything in your electrical system, possibly due to corrosion or water. To determine what it is, you could bring it to any of our
treats the impact of drug and alcohol addiction when deciding claims for disability and SSI benefits.
The Public Record • November 21, 2013
Chapter 13 is the chapter most often chosen for dealing with student-loan cases. A Chapter 13 Plan can last for five years, during which time the automatic stay which prohibits all attempts from studentloan creditors to collect loans from you is in effect and creditors cannot engage in collection activities. This means they
SSR 13-2p notes that many people with DAA have coexisting mental disorders. Significantly, SSA acknowledges that “We do not know of any research data that we can use to predict reliably that any given ... co-occurring mental (Cont. Page 19)
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by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: Can bankruptcy help solve your student-loan problem even if the debt is non-dischargeable? Answer: Chapter 7 can be overlooked as an option for dealing with student loans, particularly if you have assets.
cannot send bills or letters, sue, garnish, attach, or take any collection efforts against you during this five-year period. “Perpetual Chapter 13” is when upon the completion of by Michael P. Boyle, Esq. your Chapter 13, you can turn Last week, I discussed Soaround and file a brand-new cial Security Ruling (SSR) 13Chapter 13, with a brand-new 2p, which deals with how SSA automatic stay, and another five years, during which time the student-loan creditor cannot call, sue, garnish or attach. This is a very common procedure to deal with student loan (Cont. Page 19) service departments at Pacifico Auto Group. What we would do is hook it up to a monitor for a test drive, isolate the problem and trace the wires to determine the problem and fix it. Hope this helps! 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.
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The Public Record • November 21, 2013
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(Cont. From Page 17) debt. We call it a “perpetual Chapter 13,” filing a new case every five years to allow you to survive. Chapter 11 offers all of the advantages of a Chapter 13 (except for the co-debtor stay) with the addition of being able to extend the repayment term for student loans for up to 20 or 30 years, instead of the maximum of five years that Chapter 13 offers. It also allows people who can’t qualify for a Chapter 13 because of the amount of their debt to protect themselves from student-loan creditors. What are the disadvantages? Cost, for one. The legal fees for a typical individual Chapter 11 case are much higher than for a Chapter 13. Nevertheless, I have dealt with some very large student loans in individual Chapter 11 cases, and they can be a valuable tool in appropriate cases. Next Week’s Question: Should you use a debt-settlement company? Be aware! Be very aware!
Say You Saw It In The PUBLIC RECORD
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County • Civil Action – Law No. 130700251 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Mary E. Lee Hundley, Deceased & Patricia Greenwood, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Mary E. Lee Hundley, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Mary E. Lee Hundley, Deceased & Patricia Greenwood, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Mary E. Lee Hundley, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 62 East Hortter Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client. Any information obtained from you will be used for the purpose of collecting the debt. You are hereby notified that Plaintiff Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 130700251, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 62 East Hortter Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia County. Notice: You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below. This office can provide you with information about hiring a lawyer. If you cannot afford to hire a Lawyer, this office may be able to provide you with information about agencies that may offer legal services to eligible persons at a reduced fee or no fee. Community Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, 1410 W. Erie Ave., Phila., PA 19140, 215-2272400/215-981-3700. Philadelphia 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.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Cash-Paid
HOUSEWARES
(Cont. From Page 17) disorder would improve, or the extent to which it would improve, if the claimant were to stop using drugs or alcohol.” SSA must consider periods of abstinence when evaluating the effects of DAA. In doing so, the claimant “should be abstinent long enough to allow the acute effects of drug or alcohol use to abate.” The key finding SSA must make is “what, if any, medical findings and impairment-related limitations remained after the acute effects of drug and alcohol use abated.” SSR 13-2p states improvement in a co-occurring mental disorder following treatment in a hospital or rehabilitation center may be due to treatment for the disorder, not to cessation of substance abuse. SSA needs evidence from “outside of highly structured treatment settings demonstrating the claimant’s co-occurring mental disorder(s) has improved, or would improve, with abstinence.” A “record of mul-
The South Philadelphia Public Record • November 21, 2013
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If you suffer from DAA and are contemplating seeking disability or SSI benefits, you should make every effort to stop all drug and alcohol use and seek treatment. Judges are much less likely to extend sympathy to claimants who continue to abuse drugs or alcohol.
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Public Record Classifieds: small ADS BIG Deals
tiple hospitalizations, emergency-department visits, or other treatment for a co-occurring mental disorder – with or without treatment for DAA – is an indication that DAA may not be material even if the claimant is discharged in improved condition after each intervention.”
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The South Philadelphia Public Record • November 21, 2013
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