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. XV No. 50 (Issue 724)
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19114 215-698-7000 rPhillyRecord.com
PhiladelphiaPublicRecord
“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”
@phillyrecord
www.PhillyRecord.com
JStevenson@ChapmanAutoGroup.com
Value 50¢
December 12, 2013
Rallying Against School Grinch
PHILA. Federation of Teachers President Jerry Jordan addresses rally of teachers and other local union supporters outside Bellevue headquarters of Gov. Tom Corbett, urging Corbett to return proper funding to city public schools.
Another Good Way To Celebrate Christmas
www.Phillyrecord.com
See Page 8
Local 98 PAC Leads All Election Contributors In Pa.
PHILA. Club Frontiers gave these youngsters reasons to be Merry on Christmas by treating them to an all-expense paid holiday shopping spree, along with toy giveaway and luncheon at Target at City Avenue &Monument Road. It’s their 15th year. This time they spent $75 on each of 250 at-risk kids, reports President Joseph I. Wells.
MAYOR Michael A. Nutter and Lisa Nutter kick off holiday season in LOVE Park).
Photos by Leona Dixon
Photo by Paul Loftland
It’s Officially Christmastime
Wills & Estate Probate • Home & Business Property • Damage Claims • Personal Injury • Family & Criminal Matters
www. MirarchiLegal.Net Emergency Call-Back Consultations Available Around the Clock Seven Days Per Week
215-545-5090
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 2
Development: Who Now Speaks For ‘Community’? by Tony West A seething dispute in City Council over who can give community input in zoning cases has forged a compromise. It could make it easier for property-owners to seek variances for new development or rehab work. A lot is at stake: the rights of property-owners, the influence of community leaders, the authority of politicians, the power of developers and the ability of the city to refashion itself – or preserve itself, depending on your point of view. Council’s Rules Committee voted yesterday to amend a bill proposed by 6th Dist. Councilman Bobby Henon that would tighten standards for community groups and spell out expectations for them as well as for developers, Council Members and the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. The reformed Zoning Code, which was passed by the voters in 2011 and went into effect in August 2012, was designed to make it easier for builders to build – in part by clarifying which voices represented “the community”. There are a lot of zoning variances – 1,249 in the first year after zoning reform. They are an essential tool for updating an aged city. Zoning variances need community participation in hearings. But under the old system, the Zoning Board of Adjustment took an ad hoc approach to who was “community.” Anybody could speak and it often seemed everybody did speak. Builders complained they had no idea with whom to negotiate and often struggled to navigate between warring bands of neighbors whose opinions diverged. In practice, District Council Members wielded great power in this chaotic system. And for decades, development languished. The new zoning code
sought to put an end to all that. Groups that wished to weigh in on zoning matters now had to file as Registered Community Organizations. RCOs needed to show a minimum level of organization – incorporation, bylaws and boundaries, regular meetings and elected officers. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission was enjoined to register the new RCOs. Many community groups were fine with that. But some low-income parts of town lack this level of organization. In poor neighborhoods, civic action often forms around informal leaders and impromptu rallies. These citizens felt shut out of the new system. 3rd Dist. Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell took up her cudgel for them. In January 2013 she pushed through a measure gutting many of these restrictions and reestablishing the traditional power of District Council Members to shape zoning cases according to their view of their constituents’ wishes. That pleased activists like Lee Tolbert of the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods & Businesses, which claims a membership of 125 different loosely organized groups. “There was never anything wrong with the original process,” insisted Tolbert. “We don’t need the Planning Commission to tell communities who they are or what to do.” But others were frustrated by Blackwell’s move. Barbara Capozzi, who is both a developer and the president of the Packer Park Civic Association, called it “unfair to developers, neighbors and anyone trying to conduct business with clarity and predictability.” She said it “also harmed existing civics because it put every RCO group (whether 50 years old or one week old) on an even footing.” To tip the balance back toward reform, Henon intro-
duced Bill 130657 this fall. This is the measure that was approved by the Rules Committee. He said he was moved to do so because “the current process was just too cumbersome. Applicants for even the most-basic zoning projects – a roof deck, for example – required onerous regulation for notifying neighbors, including many that live far away from the project.” Henon said he also wanted to support the new RCOs. Since zoning reform, civic groups have been signing up in droves for this new status – the first official recognition of neighborhood authority in Philadelphia, oft called a “city of neighborhoods”. Blackwell says 39 have registered in her district alone. Projected citywide, that’s 400 civic groups that now would like to know what powers they’ve earned by organizing properly. The squabble over RCOs reveals other political divides in the City of Brotherly Love. On one side are low-income neighborhoods where established activists fear an influx of new middle-class residents. Tolbert (and he’s not alone) calls this “gentrification”. They would prefer new subsidized housing on their vacant lots; if they can’t have that, no development at all at least preserves the neighborhood class structure they earn clout by representing. On the other side are the building trades, both labor and management. If vacant lots in much of inner-city Philadelphia can be developed fast, they can be sold to middle-class, market-rate buyers. Philadelphia is no Detroit; there is money to be made in this town, if the government will let them make it. Henon comes out of Electricians Local 98, a building trade, and his business background shows in Bill 130657. In the middle are District Council Members. Their prerogative to rule on develop-
ment is largely unwritten, but cherished. Since District Members outnumber at-Large Members 10-7, they will win any vote on institutional powers like these. So they must be made happy whenever one asks them to cede power. Councilman at Large Bill Greenlee, who chairs the Rules Committee, worked hard to broker a deal between Blackwell and Henon. Amiable and fair-minded, Greenlee stands outside the rivalries of District Council Members. But as senior 15th Ward Leader in popping Fairmount, he has seen more than his share of development and his experience is respected. “We worked together to find common ground on these issues,” said Greenlee. “I feel that I got what I had to have,” Blackwell said. “We have to have an appeal process if RCO status is denied. That’s been added. We eliminated Special Service Districts and citywide special interests. But ward committees were retained.” Ward committees were important to 9th Dist. Councilwoman Marian Tasco, who testified on community zoning input, “I selected the ward to do it because they’re organized, they’re block captains, they go to church, they know their neighborhoods, they know where they live, they are involved in their community.” Citywide “issue-based RCOs” would be out. Under the proposed new law, RCOs cannot claim too large a turf. They are limited to 20,000 parcels of real estate. Since there are almost 600,000 parcels in the city, that works out to about 4 square miles. In practice, most are smaller, some taking in only a couple of blocks. RCOs would have to reregister every two years to demonstrate continued functioning. RCOs would become responsible for publicizing the
date, time and location of zoning meetings. Overlapping RCOs pose a major problem for variance applicants. It is not hard to find blocks where three or four RCOs all claim jurisdiction. “Too often in the past, a developer would pursue a project in good faith, trying to work with the neighbors and elected officials to gain support, and only at the last minute, find out that there was just one more group they should have spoken with,” Anne Fadullon of Dale Corp. testified at a hearing on Bill 130657. Fadullon is VP of the Building Industry Association and also sits on PCPC’s Civic Design Review Committee, which provides an extra layer of review for major projects. In these cases, the District Council Member would pick one organization to coordinate a zoning meeting for all of them. No applicant could be required to attend more than two meetings. Applicants would no longer be required to notify all rental residents, as figuring out who they are is an impossible task. One notice per address would suffice. The Dept. of Licensing & Inspections would get a new duty: to provide applicants with a mailing list for their meeting. (L&I is under a lot of pressure these days; it might be wise for Council to consider new funding for new staffing for this new mandate.) There would be new work for small owner-occupant applicants as well. They are currently exempt from mailing notices but under the new law they would have to start doing so. After numerous revisions, this bill was voted out of the Rules Committee 7-2, with Council Members Wilson Goode and Blondell Reynolds Brown opposing. It will receive its first hearing in the full Council today.
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 CitiLife Editor: Ruth R. Russell Dan Sickman: Veteran Affairs Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Photographers: Harry Leech Kate Clarke Leona Dixon `Harry Leech 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.
for league fees and team uniforms. Presenting the check to Harambee Athletic Dir. Anthony Medlock, Brady said, “This school is in the 1st Congressional Dist. and in the heart of neighborhood I grew up in. And, I wanted to make sure that these students would be able to continue their bas-
ketball program.” Medlock said, “Congressman Brady is a man of his word. I talked to him at a community event and asked for his help and he promised he would see to it that these students would be able to play this season. And here he is, in CONGRESSMAN Bob Brady presents check CONGRESSMAN Brady cheers up Haramto Harambee Athletic Dir. Anthony Medlock. bee Cheerleader Coach Naimah Holmes. spite of the weather.”
Christmas Honored Despite Weather
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
In spite of harsh weather, Congressman Bob Brady (DPhila.) showed up at the Harambee Charter School to hand over a check for $2,100 to support the school’s boys and girls basketball teams. The check from the Greater Philadelphia Traditions Fund, founded by Brady, will pay
Page 3
Harambee School Basketball Program Gets Donation From Congressman Brady
GATHERED for Congressman Brady’s check presentation were members of Harambee Heat (boys team), Harambee Flames (girls team), Athletic Dir. Anthony Medlock and Assistant Basketball Coach Simeon Ransome.
Handing Out Holiday Treat Kenyatta Now At 40
REP. CHERELLE Parker, in center rear, with youth performers from 1st Impressions Learning Center at the 5th annual Historic Wadsworth Avenue Holiday Lighting Ceremony & Shopping Extravaganza on the 1500 block of Wadsworth Avenue. NW residents did not let the rain hinder their celebration!
Former Democratic 12th Ward Leader Betty Ann Townes was buried Wednesday after services at Christian Stronghold Baptist Church, 4701 Lancaster Avenue. Betty Townes, affectionately known as Betty Ann worked alongside State Rep. Rosita C. Youngblood to save Happy Hollow Playground and on many other initiatives. She was a Democratic State Committeeperson. She was a political analyst for the late State Rep. David P. Richardson. She worked as a political liaison for Mayor John F. Street and for Mayor W. Wilson Goode during their successful campaigns.
Telling Authentic Irish Tale Dedicating Latino HIV Clinic
GOP RIDERS carried toys for needy children from Holmesburg to Crossroads Church on Leiper Street where they were greeted by Children of Overington House, a shelter for women in transition with children for fourth year and welcomed by State Rep. John Taylor. Started by Republican Ward Leader Bill Pettigrew, ride has grown with addition of other motorcycle clubs. Santa is joined here by Taylor, ABATE President Joe Galiotto, Pettigrew, Blue Bloods President John “Bear” Hamilton, Sons Of Liberty Riders President Mike Salvis, Ann Mason and Dawn from Overington House, and their young guests of honor.
COMMANDER Jon Peterson presents Ben Franklin Post American Legion coin to Dr. Kevin T. Brady, right, who detailed at Union League Irish attacks on Canada in 1866, where they captured British fort and part of New Brunswick, which they planned to use as base to liberate Ireland or attack England. Photo by Joe Stivala
ATTENDING opening of first Spanish Speaking HIV Clinic at 166 W. Lehigh were Councilman David Oh, Jane Shull, Philadelphia FIGHT’s Executive Director; José Benitez, Executive Director, Prevention Point; Councilwoman Maria Quiñones-Sánchez and Councilwoman Marian Tasco.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Obituary –Betty Bikers Carry Gifts For Youngsters Ann Townsend
COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson, 3rd from left, was center of attraction as he marked his 40th birthday. Celebrants included 48th Ward Leader Lee Schwartz, 40A Ward COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson, 3rd from Leader Ed Thornton, 40B Ward Leader Ann left, had help of this smiling group as he Brown, 36th Ward and former President of handed out 300 turkeys from his headquar- City Council Anna Verna and former Gov. ters. Ed Rendell.
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 4
Candidates Need Worry, May 20th Around Corner by Joe Shaheeli Despite the cold and inclement weather some Pennsylvanians have gone through, and the fact Christmas and New Year are just around the corner, the clamor from candidates vying for Governor and Lieutenant Governor grows louder. We must face the fact May 20, the D-Day for the Pennsylvania primary, is just around the corner. We think those hoping to win the Democratic primary for Governor will remain at nine with no surprise announcements. Declared are Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (D-Montgomery), Kate McGinty, Pennsylvania Treasurer Rob McCord, John Hanger, Max Myers, Tom Wolf, Lebanon County Commissioner Jo Ellen Litz and Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski. State Representative
Eric Bradway, a former Constable of Lower Merion Township, also says he is running for Governor on the Democratic ticket. But we aren’t counting him as a contender, so this is his last mention, unless he surprises us in the future. By Monday we should know if Harrisburg municipal worker Brenda Alton, who has announced for Lieutenant Governor, decides to take a whirl at the top of the ticket instead (or as well?). That leaves one question mark: Jack Wagner. Ever since last summer, the former Pennsylvania Auditor General has been announcing he would announce whether he would run, at some later date. Currently that date is the end of this year. Wolf hoped to pick up some chits by announcing he would donate $5,000 to each of three Pennsylvania food
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
banks rather than throw a party at the Pennsylvania Society. He’s going as a guest rather than a host. “My candidacy is grounded in the idea that I am a different kind of leader – a nontraditional candidate – a businessman who has never run for office,” Wolf wrote in an open letter to supporters. Also in the race for Lieutenant Governor are State Sen. Mike Stack (D-Northeast), former Congressman Mark Critz, Harrisburg Councilman Brad Koplinski and Bradford Co. Commissioner Mark Smith. Since candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor run separately in the primary and the winners are joined on party tickets for the general election, the lineup for both can pose a problem for Democrats. Mar. 11 is the last day for candidates to file nominating 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
petitions to get on the primary ballot. By then, both parties’ state committees will have made endorsements. The Republicans are going with Gov. Tom Corbett and Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley. But it’s way too early to call who’ll get the Democratic nod. What happens to the Democrats’ chances to take down a poll-stricken incumbent Governor if their candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor hail from the same region the Harrisburg area, say, or Southeastern Pennsylvania? The latter is a strong possibility since Schwartz and Stack are seen as frontrunners for their respective posts, with McCord also coming from Montgomery. But if McGinty or Wolf takes the Number 1 spot while Koplinski or Alton takes Number 2, this would forge an odd all-Harrisburg ticket. The powers to be at the Democratic State Committee in their February endorsement meeting need to come up with 2/3 of the total vote at the meeting. That will take some doing. It could lead to an open primary, which has both a
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
good side and a bad side, depending on who is looking. The good side for Democrats will be their candidates will get more needed exposure as they eventually begin to flail away at each other. On the other side, it could be a good thing for the incumbents. They conserve their campaign money until they know who needs to be targeted, and use what tidbits they could glean after the Dems have muddied up each other in the primary fight, to tweak what could help their cause and reuse that info again. The candidates for Governor in Pennsylvania will discuss their positions on a range of important sustainability issues Jan. 13, at a gubernatorial forum presented by the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and its partners. The forum is free and open to the public. In the end, we see these forums as opportunities for candidates to inflict damage on themselves. In this forum, we don’t expect any of them to have all the answers the audience will hope to hear. It begins at 6 p.m. and is 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
Open Mon. - Fri. 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
HEATING up 202nd is Jared Solomon, who announced he is challenging State Rep. Mark Cohen. presented in partnership with the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance, League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund, Conservation Pennsylvania, and Penn Environment. The forum will be moderated by Dave Davies, senior government and politics reporter for WHYY. To register to attend the forum, visit sustgovforum.eventbrite.com. The forum will focus on important sustainability issues that directly affect jobs, public health, energy efficiency, and the economy, now and in the future. These issues, such as energy and the environment, involve the careful balancing of the needs of both natural (Cont. Next Page)
A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE
3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643 Ready to Serve you
Mark B.
COHEN 215-924-0895 202nd Legislative District
7012 Castor Ave., 1st Fl. Philadelphia PA 19149 State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600
the-vote effort in preparation for the May 20 primary.
APRIL Maxwell and Nathan Shrader welcomed former Congressman Mark Critz, right, to their home for a meet-andgreet Monday night. ation, developed during three are from the eastern end of the campaigns as a Congressman state. (he was finally done in by reA reception was held for districting). He’s just received Critz Monday night at the the endorsement of the John- home of April Maxwell and stown Building & Construc- Nathan Shrader in East Kenstion Trades Council, from his ington and was attended by interested Democrats from back yard. As a Johnstown resident several city neighborhoods, with deep roots in several numerous AFT members, as southwestern counties, Critz well as Lindsay Patterson, feels he will bring the neces- President of USW Local 404sary geographic balance to the U and his wife Annette. The Democratic ticket since all five United Steelworkers have algubernatorial frontrunners — ready endorsed Critz and have McCord, Wolf, McGinty, pledged a full-fledged get-outPawlowski and Schwartz — State Rep.
John
Taylor (R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137
215-744-2600
State Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
215-271-9190
Two Hot Legislative Races In 174th, 202nd
The 202nd has joined the 174th Legislative Dist. seat as another district to be heavily contested. This was obvious from the fact a good crowd weathered Sunday’s snowstorm to attend Jared Solomon’s announcement he would challenge longtime incumbent State Rep. Mark Cohen (D-Northeast) in the newly revamped district which includes an area relatively new to Cohen as well. In the 174th, no change has been reported yet, as State
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
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.
If anyone is interesting in running for committee person in either of the major parties, know you are invited to a class on how to run for that post in the 2014 primary election according to an announcement from the office of Commissioner Stephanie Singer. It is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1606 Walnut Street. Also reported from Singer’s office, in the statewide judicial top-of-the-ticket race, Ward 40B wins the “Most Improved Since Four Years Ago” award, pulling out 177 more votes this year than four years ago. While city turnout as a whole was down 14% (Cont, Next Page)
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
(Cont. from Prev. Page) and human systems now and in the future. At this stage, endorsements may hold more sway than forums. Schwartz has received the endorsements of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, Pennsylvania State Council of Sheet Metal Workers, United Mine Workers of America, United Steel Workers Local 10-1, Boilermakers Local 19 and Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses & Allied Professionals. McCord has won the coveted backing of the state AFSCME. In the race for Lieutenant Governor, gambling for an endorsement, nevertheless, is Critz, who comes from Western Pennsylvania. He sees himself as a ticket balancer, and believes he has the support to win the nomination in any event. Undaunted by the presence of Stack in the race for Lieutenant Governor, enters the race “to give balance to the eventual Democrat ticket.” He’s a pro at campaigning, with a strong grassroots oper-
Marcel Groen, Montgomery Co. Democratic Party Chair, has thrown his support behind Marjorie Margolies in her bid to return to Congress. That may cost State Sen. Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery) votes he needed to keep him in the race. He should reassess his decision to run.
Commissioner Announces Class For Committee People
Page 5
Montco Chair Endorses Margolies For 13th Dist.
Reps. John Sabatina, Jr. and Ed Neilson are buckling their helmets to butt heads. Solomon, founder of the Castor Gardens/Oxford Circle-based civic group, “Take Back Your Neighborhood”, was joined by fellow community leaders Pat Kane, Sharon Williams and Pam Baranackie who echoed the need for strong representation. Solomon is a lifelong resident of Northeast Philadelphia. An Army JAG Reserve officer, Solomon was raised in Castor Gardens. He is a graduate of Swarthmore College and Villanova Law School. Jared worked as a top strategist for Congressman Joe Sestak, after years of public service for Controller Alan Butkovitz and the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus.
NOW BA CK
Page 6
NORTH BRO N O A
TRAINED SKILLS
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:
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
LiUNA!
Women Rallying For Dan Savage For Senate
TREET DS
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
UNION LABOR
The Laborers Employers Cooperation and Education Trust 665 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123 Telephone: 215-922-6139 Fax: 215-922-6109 Web: www.ldc-phila-vic.org Juan F. Ramos Administrator
LOCAL 98 Political Dir. Marita Crawford, Tara Chupka, Barbara Deeley make it a Women For Dan Savage night along with Nancy Marinucci, Marnie Aument and Shannon McClure Photo by Maria Merlino Roberts, Esq. Attorneys are both board certified by the American Bankruptcy Certification Board. Chapters 7/13 & Stop foreclosures, creditors harassments, lawsuits, garnishments, and sheriff sales.
We are a debt-relief agency 1500 Walnut Street • Suite 900 Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-735-1060 ccpc@ccpclaw.com
LAW OFFICE OF
MICHAEL P.
BOYLE SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY, SSI, VETERANS’ BENEFITS
No Fee Unless You Win
215-546-7035 123 S. Broad St. Ste. 2140 Philadelphia, PA 19109 michaelboylelaw.com
(Cont. From Prev. Page) from four years ago, turnout in 40B was up 18%. In the DA and Controller races, the 40th Ward (A and B together) turned out more votes than the powerhouse 10th Ward…. “a notable change from four years ago.” Dan Savage Seeks Women’s Support
The woman were out in force for Dan Savage, who is running for State Senator against Tina Tartaglione. Cohosting his latest fundraiser held at Trieste Restaurant were Barbara Deeley; businesswoman Nancy Marinucci; Shannon McClure Roberts, Esq.; architect Kusrin Dhamawongse; Mariya Vetser, president of CM Studios; and Winnie Clorry of LeBus. Said Dan, “I think that women vote for the best candidate. As a former elected official, I have the skill set of enthusiasm, expertise and energy to move forward. As you can see, the women of my district recognize me as the best candidate.” Union Lottery Workers Kept In Lottery Deal
It’s reported Gov. Tom Corbett has managed to make a deal with the Lottery union employees, clearing the way for his effort to privatize man(Cont. Page 20)
Page 7
Our Opinion A Scare Campaign
Another Opinion
Privatization: Still A Gamble
sylvania and the senior programs that rely so heavily on lottery-generated revenue — and perhaps it will not. I believe relinquishing control of our lottery to a foreign company will hurt Pennsylvanians, specifically seniors. The Dept. of Revenue reported the Pennsylvania Lottery had $3.7 billion in sales in the 2012-13 fiscal year, an increase of more than 6%. The lottery earned more than $1 billion in profits while keeping the administrative costs at just 2.07% of sales. This begs the question: Why is so much effort being poured into fixing something that isn’t broken? It is important to keep in mind what is at stake here. The popular Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program and programs that fund prescription drug purchases are
just a few services that can be adversely affected by a decision to privatize. Projections show 25% of Pennsylvanians will be 60 years or older 16 years from now, making the aforementioned programs ever more essential. The plan put forth by Camelot is front-loaded to generate lottery profits in the first few years of the deal, but in the out years, Camelot guarantees lottery growth of just 1%, and that is right around the time when the number of seniors needing services in Pennsylvania will be rising. For a real-world example of what privatization could mean, we needn’t look further than the State of Illinois, which became the first state to privatize its lottery when it did so two years ago. Last year, the company hired to run the Illinois Lottery missed its sales goals for the second year in a row. With Illinois in mind, one thing is clear: Privatizing the Pennsylvania Lottery is as much as a gamble today as it was a year ago.
Dec. 12- Friends of Ori Feibush for City Council host fundraiser at OCF Coffee House, 2l00 Fairmount Ave., 6:30-8 p.m. Suggested contribution: Really Good Friend$2,900, Good Friend-$1,800, Friend-$1,000. RSVP ofeibush@gmail.com or mail checks to Friends of Ori Feibush, PO Box 7228, 3000 Chestnut St., Phila., PA 19101. Dec. 12- Dan Sickman invites all to join in launching The Forgotten Threads, Inc., dedicated to servicemen and women who made ultimate sacrifice at Crabfest at Frankie’s, 3334 Bristol Rd., Bensalem, Pa., Reserved seating. Tickets $25. Requested Seating Time: 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. For info (215) 644-9553. 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 hosts 10th “Laugh Out Loud Comedy Show” at H & H Community Ctr., 2036 E. Haines St. Dec. 14- Black Professionals Holiday Party, at African American Museum, 700 Arch St., 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Donation $50. For info Earl Harvey (267) 244-3860. Dec. 14- State Rep. Michelle Brownlee sponsors Seminar on Affordable Care Act at Christian Hope Baptist Ch., 921-27 N. 26th St., 12-2 p.m. For info (215) 684-3738. Dec. 15- N.E. Roadrunners Club & AOH Div. hold “Christmas Is For Giving” Pennypack Park, 3200 Rhawn St. entrance (Little Cities), 10 a.m. Entry Fee: unwrapped new gift for needy children or teenagers. Registration 9 a.m. For info (215) 624-6715. Dec. 15- State Rep. Ed Neilson hosts Tailgate Party at Paddy Whacks Pub, 9241 Roosevelt Blvd., starting 12:30 p.m. Tickets $35, available at door. For info (215821-9842). Dec. 15- Christmas Concert at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary’s Chapel of St. Martin of
Tours, 100 E. Wynnewood Rd., Wynnewood, Pa., 7 p.m. Free. On display in Ryan Memorial Library: 50 International Christmas crèches. Dec. 18- All invited to 17th annual blessing of Nativity Scene at Love Park, NWC, adjacent to Christmas Village, 3 p.m. Hear carols by students of St. Francis Xavier Sch. Sponsored by Ancient Order of Hibernians and Knights of Columbus. Dec. 19- N.E. Democratic Ward Leaders host Christmas Gala at FOP Hall, 11630 Caroline Rd., 7-9 p.m. Tickets $35 at door. Open bar and food. For info (215) 632-7944. Dec. 20- State Rep. John Sabatina holds Holiday Party Fundraiser at Gallo’s Seafood, 8101 Roosevelt Blvd., 5:30-8 p.m. Tickets $50, Sponsors $250, Hosts $500. RSVP Rachel (215) 742-1582. Dec. 26- Universal Muslim Business Association Network Mixer at Karima’s Banquet Ha., 1928 W. Hunting Park, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free to members (RSVP mandatory), $120 to non members. For info (215) 430-2441.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
by State Rep. Ron Waters The 127-page transportation bill has been signed by the Governor. This undoubtedly means the resuscitation of controversial statewide debates such as pension reform, liquor privatization and — as recent rumblings suggests — lottery privatization. Former Gov. Ed Rendell and Gov. Tom Corbett have reengaged in talks to move forward with a plan to privatize the state-run lottery system. Rendell is a senior advisor for the firm Greenhill, which was awarded a sole-source financial services contract to oversee the Governor’s privatization deal with British company, Camelot Global. Perhaps a decision to move forward with a deal struck with the lone bidder will prove to be the best move for the state of Penn-
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
It is clear the Philadelphia Daily News editorial department doesn’t do its homework; otherwise it would not have tried to hype its readers into believing on its Tuesday front page story “Oil Rolling Through Philly, a Quebec-Like Roll Calamity Is Possible”. This attempt to rally popular support to bar oil shipments rolling the rails through Philly makes no sense. Pennsylvania is enjoying a major natural-gas boom which is creating thousands of jobs not only in Marcellus Shale, but here as well. In case the Daily News staffers don’t know, we have long had oil refineries and a busy port terminal which brings in oil, which is transferred from tankers. Delaware Valley industries have a long, stellar safety record in handling delicate cargoes. Our regional economy depends on them. If we can receive oil shipments from the Bakken Shale in North Dakota, so much the better. We ask the Daily News editors to tell if they have clocked such long trains of oil tankers and found them going faster than 35 miles an hour. Have they ever driven under the railroad bridge crossing over Aramingo at Lehigh Avenue? Every time we do, there are oil and chemical tank cars either rolling leisurely along or standing still. We only remember one minor tank spill back in the ’80s at that location and no one was blown up or sickened. What are their reasons for deploying a scare tactic without foundation?
Top Guns Back Schmidt
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 8
Giving Gifts This Holiday Season
ROBERT TINSLEY, Sharon Hill chief of police, accepts pies and cookies Sen. Anthony H. Williams for de- SEN. ANTHONY H. WILLIAMS poses liveries to first responders, an annual with first responders from 17th Dist. Police SEN. ANTHONY H. WILLIAMS poses with firefighters from 12th Dist. fire station in West Philly. tradition in the 8th Senatorial Dist. Dept. in South Philly.
Oldest Sorority Installs 2014 Officers
SOLID backing appeared for City Commission Vice-Chair Al Schmidt at Palm fundraiser: from left, Ross Associates’ Billy Miller, Republican City Committee Chair State Rep. John Taylor, Schmidt and Electricians, union head (and OMEGA OMEGA Chapter Of Alpha Kappa Democratic Ward Leader) John Dougherty. Alpha Sorority, Inc., installed officers for 2014 and celebrated Chapter’s 87th birthday. Seated, from left, Ruth Marcus Sturgis, Carol Parkinson-Hall, Lorina Marshall Blake, Charlene Collins, Jayne Downing, Regina Jordan. Standing are Crystal Lacey, Ruth Glover Butler, Lorita Brockington, Theresa Massey, Shanina Gary, Melanie Marcus, Tiffany Mattaway, Monique McCray, Karen Hayes, Aaliyah Johnson, Mardi Holliday, Sannah Crawford, Samaiya Minor, Inger Taylor, Erica Washington, Stephanie Marsh, Leslie Anderson. AKA, founded at Howard University in Washington in 1908, is oldest Greek-lettered organization established by African American college-educated women. Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Pa. National Guard Now 266! The 1747 birth of the Pennsylvania National Guard, founded by Benjamin Franklin to battle pirates invading settlements on the Delaware River, was marked by Major General Wesley Craig, Guard Adjutant General. He is flanked by members of the Benjamin Franklin Post of the Union League: Jon Peterson, Post Commander; Craig Gripp, Sgt-at-Arms; Dr. Andy Waskie, Vice Commander; and Col. Phil De Hennis. Photo by Post Adjutant Joe Stivala
McCaffery Disrobes For Tots
ALL ON BOARD with Al Schmidt are, from left, RCC Exec. Dir. Joe DeFelice, State Republican Committee Chair Rob Gleason and Fairmount GOP activist Dave Thomsen.
Kinsey, Kappa Alpha Psi Host Turkey Dinner
WARD LEADERS Walt Vogler, left, and Mike Cibik, right, shared lively talk with John Salvatore as they joined other STATE REP. Stephen Kinsey joins Jerome Dean, of Kappa heavy hitters at Commissioner Al Schmidt’s impressive Alpha Psi fraternity, who helped host over 1,000 people fundraiser. Thanksgiving dinner at 1st Filipino Baptist Church, 5203 N. Photo byRory McGlasson Broad Street.
DONNING extra-judicial costume as a motorcycle rider, Jus- MEMBERS OF Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity helped organize tice Seamus McCaffery ran with his fellow bikers as part of Thanksgiving dinner at 1st Filipino Baptist Church, 5203 N. US Marine Corps Toys For Tots delivery parade. Broad Street.
Philly Labor Hosts Meet-And-Greet
PHILLY LABOR kicked off its special speaker series with Plumbers Local 690 Business Manager, John Kane who was hosted by Ironworkers local 401 in N.E. Phila. From left, Joe Dougherty, Jr. Philly Labor, director; Joe Dougherty, Sr., president, Ironworkers 440, Photo by Rory McGlasson Kane; and Mike Hines.
the 2009-10 election cycle, when a legislative battle ultimately failed to expand vouchers and other school options. In this cycle, it gave $525,000 to Citizens Alliance of Pennsylvania, a conservative activist group frequently challenging incumbent lawmakers, $160,000 to the Senate Republican Campaign Committee and $100,000 to
s
L
Over A Quarter Century of Experience
oofer
R
R
oofer
ocal 3
0
ocal 3
s
thony Williams (D-W. Phila.). Its leader is John (“Johnny Doc”) Dougherty, head of Local 98 and the Democratic 1st Ward Leader. Students First PAC – $2.695 million. This PAC is comprised of business people interested in educational choice in the state’s k-12 schools. Its spending was down almost $4 million from
0
L
state business leaders by PBC President David Patti, were: Local 98, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers COPE – $3.495 million. Significant contributions included $210,000 to Philadelphia Phuture PAC, one of IBEW’s own PACs; $90,000 to the Philadelphia Democratic City Committee and $55,000 to State Sen. An-
Remember - Do It Right , Do It Safe, Do It Union.
OUT B A K AS ULL OUR F R A 30 YE TEE AN GUAR
LICE N INSU SED REGI RED STER FR ED ROO EE ESTIM FIN AT E RTIF S ICAT E
G CE
CITY WIDE SERVICE ALL TYPES OF
U
• Residential • Commercial • Industrial 981
1
N ROOFIN G NIO
d 3n2nivnersary A
3
201
• New Roofs • Repairs • Hot Asphalt • Rubber & Modified Systems • Shingles • Slate & Tile • Skylights • Siding • Gutters & Downspouts
EMER GEN REPA CY I 24 HO RS UR A DAY S
12260 Townsend Road
215-464-6425
215-725-8815
FAX # 215-624-9263 www.unionroofing.net WE DO OUR OWN WORK • NO SUBCONTRACTORS
Scarnati (R-Jefferson). LawPAC – $1.4 million. Another trial-lawyer PAC that gave $61,000 to the Senate Democratic Campaign Committee and $57,500 to the House Democratic Campaign Committee. It also gave $30,000 or more to State Sens. Greenleaf, Costa, Scarnati, Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-Delaware) and Matt Smith (D-Allegheny), as well as House Minority Leader Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny) and State Rep. Tom Caltigirone (DBerks), minority chair of the House Judiciary Committee. Carpenters PAC of Philadelphia and Vicinity – $1.2 million. This PAC gave $113,000 to Scarnati, $110,000 to Pileggi, $100,000 to Republican Gov. Tom Corbett’s campaign and $50,000 to Concerned Citizens of Pennsylvania, opponents of the state’s booming naturalgas industry. Keeping America Competitive PAC – $980,000. This is a pro-business PAC concentrating on small business, education reform and reduced government regulation. It gave $360,000 to the Pennsylvania Future Fund and $50,000 to the progressive America Votes Pennsylvania PAC. AFSCME Council 13 – $961,000. The American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees represents thousands of government employees and gave $133,500 to the House and Senate Democratic Campaign Committees, more than $30,000 to Hughes and Markosek, and $45,000 to Democratic State Treasurer Rob McCord, whom Council 13 endorsed for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. Pennsylvania Business Council is a broad-spectrum business-advocacy group. It maintains a PAC of its own, which gives almost exclusively to Republicans.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
ROOFING
State Rep. Jim Christiana (RBeaver). Laborers District Council PAC – $2.2 million. This group gave $276,250 to Progressive Agenda and another $100,000 to State Sen. Vincent Hughes, minority chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Committee For A Better Tomorrow – $2 million. This PAC, comprised of state trial lawyers, gave $500,000 to the campaign of Democratic Attorney General Kathleen Kane, who was elected last year; $300,000 to the successful campaign of Superior Court Judge David Wecht in 2011 and $100,000 to State Sen. Stewart Greenleaf (RMontgomery), chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. PSEA-PACE for State Elections – $1.98 million. This PAC is run by the state’s largest teacher union, the Pennsylvania State Education Association, representing 182,000 education workers. It gave $97,500 to America Votes, a national leftist organization supporting programs such as Planned Parenthood, La Raza, People for the American Way and the Sierra Club. This union also gave $90,000 to the House Democratic Campaign Committee and $50,000 or more to State Sens. Vincent Hughes (D-W. Phila.), Daylin Leach (DMontgomery) and Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). State Reps. Joe Markosek (D-Allegheny), minority chair of the House Appropriations Committee, and Mike Hanna (D-Clinton) received $50,000 each from the teacher PAC. Pennsylvania Future Fund – $1.4 million. This PAC solicits funds for the Republican Party and gave $200,000 to David Freed’s unsuccessful bid for Attorney General last year, $80,500 to the Republican State Committee and $60,000 to State Senate President Pro Tem Joe
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Political Action Committee spending in Pennsylvania during the 2011-12 election cycle was again dominated by unions and liberal organizations, according to a biennial study released by the Pennsylvania Business Council and reported by MediaTrackersPA. The Top Ten PAC spenders in the state, according to the report presented to
Page 9
Local 98 Tops Political PAC Spenders In Pa.
Page 10
Sickman Launches ‘Forgotten Threads’ To Help Veterans by Daniel Sickman, Sr. Founder, The Forgotten Threads Inc.
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Veteran Advocate ‘69 USMC ’67-’69 / USN R ’74-‘76
At 19 years old on 14 February 1969, at “O” Dark 30 in the PM, I just got home from my 13-months tour of Nam with the United States Marine Corps. I’m out, I’m home, but my gut said there is a sense that there was something wrong going on here. I became a nobody. What is wrong here? I was safer in Nam! At least we had weapons too! Now, in 2013 our streets are worse than they ever were. Why do vets have to go here? Since 1969, I must have seen every atrocity in life committed by our thankless government under the guise of veterans’ health care. I have been exposed to quite a few Veterans Administration Medical Centers in my day to be able to say, “It does not stop”! Our veterans do not use the benefits they earned. They just don’t know! Welfare doesn’t start with the letter “V”, as in Veterans Medical Center. But most vets think it does equal wel-
BROTHERS Joe and Dan Sickman, pressing fight for better treatment of veterans, have formed nonprofit “Forgotten Threads” to help them. fare. Center in Philadelphia. The In my many decades as a road to recovery was exveteran advocate, I have tremely hard but we got never witnessed such inhu- there. Keating was awarded mane degradation and disre- his disability and we were spect of a fellow USMC pursuing a notice of disagreecombat veteran as I did with ment for further compensathe treatment given Lance tion. Cpl. Michael Keating and his Our concern is not the vetfamily. That’s why I and oth- erans compensation. Rather, ers have formed “Forgotten it is the the overall mistreatThreads”. ment of Cpl. Keating's physWe worked diligently with ical and mental health and the the Keating family as their total disrespect of the Keating veteran activist for more than family. 13 years. As a group, we After 33 days of no food gathered all of our resources or water, 1 December 2008, and, in consultation with Cpl. Keating passed away. Mike, felt it was time to seek The family feels Keating's help through the Veterans primary cause of death was Administration's Medical from service connected dis-
abilities but also because of lack of proper supervision and care while residing/PTSD treatment at Coatesville VA Medical Center. The Keating family pursued that concept in court to no avail. Not only did the judge rule in favor of the Veterans Administration, but the Veterans Administration is suing the Keating family for the government’s legal costs. That case and others have led us to establish Forgotten Threads Inc., a nonprofit corporation, operated exclusively for educational retraining, job placement and charitable purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the corresponding
section of any future The Mission of The Forgotten Threads, Inc. is to maintain and preserve the integrity and sanctity of the veterans of the United States Armed Forces, their supporting American civilians and related qualified families in life as well as death. We are committed to address, educate, coordinate, and provide aid and relief to eradicate joblessness, ignorance of policies, practices and procedures and entitlements pertaining to qualified United States Armed Forces Veterans, American Citizens and families of the same on a local and global level. Our intent is to acquire the necessary funding to: provide
education and retraining in applicable work force fields, provide funding for qualified Honorably Discharged Veterans, who are less fortunate and provide for the proper preparation for internment in National Cemeteries. Our programs include dispatching our Veteran Activists to raise social consciousness about the Forgotten Threads on a local and global level, apply for applicable various level grants, seek donations, hold fundraising events and any legal means possible in order to provide immediate relief and assistance to American Veterans. We can be reached at Forgotten Threads, PO Box 1890, Bensalem, PA 19020.
The Christmas Crèche Committee Cordially Invites You to Join in Celebrating
Ringside With The Shadowboxer www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Army-Navy Boxing This weekend, members of the US Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. and members of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. will descend upon Philadelphia for the Army-Navy Game, which is one of the most historic and traditional weekends of sports in the country. But before Army-Navy battle it out on the football field at Lincoln Financial, they take to the ring in seven bouts sanctioned by the National Collegiate Boxing Association which will host the 2013 Army-Navy Boxing Classic on Fri., Dec. 13 at the Penna.
Convention Center in Hall B. The bouts are sponsored by Rowan Technologies Solutions and will be televised live on CBS Sports Network at 10 p.m. This event will showcase some of the top collegiate boxers in the country, hailing from two of our great armedforces academies. At the 2013 National Collegiate Boxing Championships, the US Military Academy won the team title, while the US Naval Academy finished third. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, go to www.ncbaboxing.tix.com.
The Seventeenth Annual Blessing of the Nativity Scene “J.D.” RIVERA, operator of the Warrior Boxing Gym at 1209 Mifflin Street, scored another knockout in 1:45 of 1st round against Jesus Barbarosa in Harrah’s Casino. He previously KO’d tAustralian Champ Tyson Maher at The Deck Arena. Rivera and trainers Quilly Hughes and Jimmy Washington offer boxing training for local kids to build self-esteem and selfdefense skills at Warrior gym.
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013 16th and JFK Blvd, NWC Love Park 3 to 4 p.m.
Rev. James T. McGuinn Pastor, St. Agatha-St. James Church Will Preside Carols by students of
St. Francis Xavier School Sponsored by Ancient Order of Hiberians • Knights of Columbus
Page 11
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 12
Page 13
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 14
Page 15
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 16
Page 17
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 18
by Michael P. Boyle, Esq. Contrary to what you may have heard, the number of claimants approved for Social Security disability benefits has declined in the past two years. A recent study released by SSA shows that the number of disabled workers approved for benefits in 2012 dropped by almost 39,000 from 2011, and by almost 67,000 compared to 2010. The total number of recipients in 2012, including
spouses and dependent children, declined by almost 92,000 from 2011 and by almost 137,000 from 2010. See http://www.ssa.gov/policy/do cs/statcomps/di_asr/2012/sect 03a.htm for a chart listing total numbers of disability recipients going back to 1960. A new policy paper refutes the common belief that unemployed workers who can’t find jobs end up receiving SSD benefits. The paper, prepared
Bankruptcy code section 11 USC 365 requires that assumption of an executory contract or unexpired lease in a Chapter 7 liquidation case within 60 days of filing the case; and in all other chapters of bankruptcy before confirmation of a plan. The court
may extend the time to assume such agreements for cause. In the case of non-residential real estate agreements, the time to act is extended to 120 days or longer by court order. Next Week’s Question: Why is my bankruptcy taking so long?
by Tom Flynn and Rocco DeGregorio Question: I have a long commute to work and with gas prices going up I am starting to think I need a hybrid or maybe even an electric vehicle. I know the Prius is popular, but what are some others? Answer: Great question, reader! There are more and more hybrid/electric vehicles coming out these days. We have a good selection on our lot now for you to choose from. If you are looking for something similar to the Toyota Prius, check out the Ford C-Max Hybrid SE. It is a great little hatchback that gets 47 MPG. The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid also gets 47 MPG
but is esthetically sportier looking. Another great-looking hybrid sedan we carry is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and it gets 39 highway MPG. Electric vehicles are still harder to find, more expensive and you would have to have a home charging station put in as well. But we can let you know when we get any in! Call us at (215) 492-1700 to set up a test drive in any of our hybrid cars today! Hope this helped. 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.
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
tracts that are not timely assumed are rejected and the parties are released from further performance under those contracts. An executory contract is an agreement that has not been completed. A contract is an agreement between two or more parties to perform certain specified actions. Once the parties complete all con-
An unexpired lease is a form of contract for the use of certain specified real or personal property that has a specified length of time remaining on the length of the contract. An example of an unexpired lease is a rental agreement for the use of a car or a house where the owner agrees to provide the property to the lessee for a set number of months or years and the lessee agrees to make payments for using that property. For bankruptcy purposes, a timeshare falls into this category. plain 90% of the growth in new disabled-worker entitlements over the 36-year subperiod (1972–2008).” See http://www.ssa.gov/policy/do cs/ssb/v73n4/v73n4p25.html. The data are clear: the number of SSD/SSI recipients is declining, not increasing. Increases in SSD/SSI recipients in the last 20 years is primarily due to demographic factors, such as the aging of the baby boomers and more women entering the workforce. It is not due to lax standards applied by SSA or to the SSD/SSI programs becoming de facto “welfare” programs.
Page 19
by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: What are executory contracts and unexpired leases in bankruptcy? Answer: List your executory contracts and unexpired leases on your bankruptcy petition and declare your intention either to accept or to reject those contracts. Con-
tractual obligations, the contract becomes fully executed and the parties to that contract have no further obligation to act under that contract. An example of an executory contract is an agreement to sell property in which the buyer and seller agree to perform certain actions including inspecting the property, making certain repairs, obtaining financing, transferring title, delivering possession and making payment. Until all contractual requirements are met, the contract remains open to be executed. by Andreas Mueller, Jesse Rothstein and Till M. von Wachter for the National Bureau of Economic Research, found no correlation between the termination of unemployment compensation benefits and a rise in filings for SSD benefits. Another study issued by SSA’s Office of Retirement & Disability Benefits concludes, “three factors — (1) population growth, (2) the growth in the proportion of women insured for disability, and (3) the movement of the large baby-boom generation into disability-prone ages — ex-
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Page 20 The Public Record • December 12, 2013 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
(Cont. From Page 6) agement of the Pennsylvania Lottery. Though no final agreement has been reached, both sides – the administration and AFSCME Council 13 – have
indicated they have agreed “in concept” to a proposal that would keep unionized state employees on the job in the event of a private firm taking over management of the Lottery. Dems Falling In Quinnipiac Poll
A Quinnipiac University Poll, if sentiments hold through
for next voting cycle, could boost Corbett’s chances. President Barack Obama’s job approval among American voters drops to a new low, a negative 38-57%, as the outlook for Democrats running for Congress and the US Senate fades also, according to this poll. He even gets a negative 41-49% among
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130402665 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, Successor in Interest To Bank of America, National Association as Successor By Merger to LaSalle Bank, National Association as Trustee for Certificateholders of EMC Mortgage Loan Trust 2001-A, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2001-A, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Marisol Adames Castro, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Edwin Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Johnny Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased & Wilfredo Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Mortgagors and Real Owners, Defendants To: The Unknown Heirs of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Marisol Adames Castro, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Edwin Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Johnny Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased & Wilfredo Adames, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Juan M. Adames, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants, whose last known address is 3235 North 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140. 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, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, Successor in Interest To Bank of America, National Association as Successor By Merger to LaSalle Bank, National Association as Trustee for Certificateholders of EMC Mortgage Loan Trust 2001-A, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2001-A, 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. 130402665 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3235 North 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140 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, 215-2272400/215-981-3700. Phila. Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215238-6333. 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.
voters 18 to 29 years old and a lackluster 50-43% approval among Hispanic voters. American voters say 4138% they would vote for a Republican over a Democrat for the US House of Representatives, the first time this year the Democrats come up on the short end of this generic ballot. Independent voters back Republican candidates 41-28%. Voters also say, 47-42%, they would like to see Republicans gain control of the US Senate and the House. Independent voters go Republican 50-35% for each. Doc Contributes $100G To Allyson Schwartz
Congresswoman and Democratic gubernatorial candidate
IN HONOR of their mom, State Rep. John Sabatina and family presented Judy's Answer for Cancer, Judy Walk $3400 check to Fox Chase Cancer Center for a mammography van. Allyson Schwartz (D-Phila.) reThe check was presented at ceived a campaign contribution an endorsement rally held at in amount of $100,000 last night Electricians HQ, attended by from IBEW Local 98 Business Congressman Robert A. Brady Mgr. John J. Dougherty. (D-Phila.) and other VIPs.
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130303129 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Bank of America, National Association, s/b/m BA Mortgage, LLC, s/b/m Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Tyrone Gentner, Deceased & Jerome Gentner, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Tyrone Gentner, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Tyrone Gentner, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 438 East Eleanor Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120. 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, Bank of America, National Association, s/b/m BA Mortgage, LLC, s/b/m Nationsbanc Mortgage Corporation, 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. 130303129 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 438 East Eleanor Street Philadelphia, PA 19120 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, 215-2272400/215-981-3700. Phila. Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215-238-6333. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Independence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130603882 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure U.S. Bank National Association (Trustee for The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Pursuant to A Trust Indenture Dated as of April 1, 1982), Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Rose W. Cohn, Deceased & Lisa M Kaplan, Individually and as Heir of Rose W. Cohn Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: The Unknown Heirs of Rose W. Cohn, Deceased, Mortgagor And Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 6753 Eastwood Street, Philadelphia, PA 19149. 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, U.S. Bank National Association (Trustee for The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Pursuant to A Trust Indenture Dated as of April 1, 1982), 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. 130603882, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 6753 Eastwood Street, Philadelphia, PA 19149, 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. 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.
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130603076 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Nationstar Mortgage, LLC, d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Claudine Robertson, Deceased, Angelo Robertson, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Claudine Robertson, Deceased & GLORIA Robertson, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Claudine Robertson, Deceased and Angelo Robertson, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Claudine Robertson, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant (s), whose last known address is 254 East Albanus Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120. 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. 130603076, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 254 East Albanus Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120 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. 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 21
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130402649 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Joseph T. Bartochow, Deceased & Donald Bartochow, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Joseph T. Bartochow, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Joseph T. Bartochow, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 3025 Memphis Street, Philadelphia, PA 19134. 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. 130402649, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3025 Memphis Street, Philadelphia, PA 19134, 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. Phila. Bar Assoc., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215238-6333. 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 22 The Public Record • December 12, 2013 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Last Thursday the Philadelphia Republican Party held the December installment of its monthly breakfast-speaker series. This month’s guest speaker was ROBERT WONDERLING, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is engaged in economic development and advocating for business-friendly public policy. The organization has approximately 5,000 members from 11 counties in the area. Wonderling was a Pennsylvania State Senator from 2002 to 2009. In the State Senate he was the Chairman of the Transportation Committee, where he was instrumental in drafting transportation infrastructure legislation, the precursor of the recently enacted transportation funding bill that will raise roughly $2.5 billion for much-needed road and bridge repairs. Passage of this bill was a priority for the Chamber as Wonderling noted businesses will not come to a state where they have problems moving their products. This week there was a changing of the guard at the Philadelphia Bar Association. WILLIAM FEDULLO replaced outgoing CHANCELLOR KATHLEEN WILKINSON. His inaugural address made it sound like he was be sworn in as a City Councilman and not as the head of the Bar Association. In my mind, the Bar Association’s role is to set and monitor standards for lawyers. In its own words, “It is a keystone for the ongoing developments of the Philadelphia and Pennsylvania legal systems.” Fedullo, however, spent a good part of his speech discussing the need for additional funding for the School District. He also discussed additional revenue sources for the schools, including taxation on hydraulic fracturing. He (Cont. Page 24)
While it can sometimes be dirty, filled with smelly people, and come at times that are inconvenient if you want to get somewhere, traveling on the SEPTA system can be an educational experience. You see and hear conversations that tell you more than you really want to know about the lives of other people. You get as up-close a view of poverty, the process of coming home from jail, and other societal ills as you could ever want to have. But the thing that stands out to me in my travels on mass transit is the interactions between parents and their kids. I see everything from that dad who is taking his baby daughter home from day care to that mom who has three screaming kids … and is matching them scream for scream. I bring this up because a new study shows that when parents scream at, demean, and grab and shake their kids, they’re impacting the development of their children’s brains. Such parenting leads to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which are toxic to children’s brains. The study, put together by a team of researchers that includes folks from St. Christopher’s Hospital For Children, also shows this kind of what the study calls “harsh parenting” is more common among parents who have other stressors that they’re dealing with, such as hunger, homelessness and poverty. I see this all of the time when I’m on the bus. I look at the faces of women that have two jobs, may be coming out of rehab, or are trying to do it alone because the father of their child has made like Elvis and left the building. I see people (Cont. Page 25)
Yo! Here we go again with this bit of history of Pearl Harbor On Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, Adm. Chester Nimitz was in Washington, D.C. He was told by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt that he (Nimitz) would now be the Commander of the Pacific Fleet. He landed at Pearl Harbor on Christmas Eve, 1941. On Christmas Day, 1941, Adm. Nimitz was given a boat tour of the destruction wrought on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese. As the tour boat returned to dock, the young helmsman of the boat asked, “Well, Admiral, what do you think after seeing all this destruction?” Adm. Nimitz said, “The Japanese made three of the biggest mistakes an attack force could ever make, or God was taking care of America.” Shocked and surprised, the young helmsman asked, “What do mean?” Nimitz explained: “Mistake number one: The Japanese attacked on Sunday morning. Nine out of every 10 crewmen of those ships were ashore on leave. If those same ships had been lured to sea and been sunk – we would have lost 38,000 men instead of 3,800. “Mistake number two: When the Japanese saw all those battleships lined in a row, they got so carried away sinking those battleships, they never once bombed our dry docks opposite those ships. If they had destroyed our dry docks, we would have had to tow every one of those ships to America to be repaired. As it is now, the ships are in shallow water and can be raised. One tug can pull them over to the dry docks, and we can have them repaired and at sea by the time we could have towed them to America. And we already had crews ashore anxious to man those ships. “Mistake number three: Every drop of fuel in the Pacific theater of war was in groundlevel storage tanks five miles away over that hill. One attack plane could have strafed those tanks and destroyed our fuel supply. God was taking care of America.” Adm. Nimitz was a Texan, born and raised in Fredericksburg, Tex. He was a born optimist. Adm. Nimitz was able to see a silver lining in a situation and circumstance where everyone else saw only despair and defeatism. We desperately needed a leader that could see silver linings in the midst of the clouds of dejection, despair and defeat. There is a reason our national motto is “In God We Trust”. Have we forgotten? I hope not.
A recent article says City Council President DARRELL CLARKE is wielding a heavy hand in Council because he is angry. The Land Bank issue seems to have sparked it. I applaud Clarke’s taking the lead, when there is lack of action by the executive. The article used the same OLD, WORN OUT zap at Council having summers off or holiday vacation. (They won’t attack teachers for this!) Council Members should keep on visiting their constituents, and doing CONSTITUENT SERVICE during those periods! A lot of these attackers have no POLITICAL EXPERIENCE, and set themselves up at experts. The LAND BANK as Council configured it is perfect. Council members have LOCAL PERSPECTIVE, and the people elected them to do the job – not some $100,000-a-year bureaucrat with PERMANENT VOICEMAIL. CLARKE detractors can include those who wish to lessen his selection as a mayoral candidate. He is highly visible and decisive, and it is ACCEPTED that most candidates would STEP ASIDE if he chose to run.... CLARKE attackers cite “reform”. When you hear this – BE AFRAID. It’s EXPENSIVE. It usually means more $100,000-A-YEAR suits on the payroll. $23,000a-year jobs in the Board of Revision were “reformed” into $100k workers. ATTACK tax delinquencies, bring in a Collections Director. Corruption Investigators tripping over themselves. WHY? A $23k worker can donate a meager sum to a candidate while a $100-k’er can contribute more. Elections are expensive. IF it is true that some cops give “nickel rides”, they ought (Cont. Page 24)
JOHN DOUGHERTY will be hosting a labor fundraiser for gubernatorial candidate CONGRESSWOMAN ALLYSON SCHWARTZ next week. The special guest of honor is CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY. This is an interesting combination of people. Schwartz is known as one of the national darlings of the far left. Brady is known as the quintessential insider and master dealmaker. And Dougherty is known for his brass-knuckle determination. Yet for this political season, they appear to be the three amigos. The Democrats have never had a better chance of beating incumbent Republican Governor, so it’s crucial they don’t mess it up. Sadly, any faithful Democrat knows such an action usually becomes a reality. But it’s still early. Why can’t ROB McCORD gain any traction with Southeastern Pennsylvania big shots? He’s likable, outgoing and appears to be able to run and raise money. Some insiders speculate Johnny Doc is not a fan, based on McCord’s hiring of former STATE SEN. VINCE FUMO staffers such as GARY TUMA and CHRISTOPHER CRAIG. It’s easy to see why Brady needs to be for Schwartz. She has represented a large portion of Philadelphia and served with him in Congress for a number of years. McCord, even though he has been elected statewide twice, is still generally perceived as a newcomer and an outsider. As for the other candidates, KATIE McGINTY, TOM WOLF, JOHN HANGER, MAX MYERS, SCOTT CONKLIN, ED PAWLOWSKI and others … they will likely find small pockets of support from other Philadelphia-area operatives who simply don’t like the top-tier candidates and don’t have relationships with either Dougherty or Brady. The Philadelphia politicians heading to the Pennsylvania Society are numerous. From the Pennsylvania Senate, New York will likely see STATE SENS. ANTHONY WILLIAMS, LeANNA WASHINGTON, DOMINIC PILEGGI and SHIRLEY KITCHEN. Council PRESIDENT DARRELL CLARKE is the guest of honor at a high-price ticket fundraiser. STATE SEN. MIKE STACK is also hosting an event on Friday in the Waldorf’s Park Avenue suite. The weekend promises to bring friends together or separate them. To create new friendships or new animosities. All for the good of Pennsylvania.
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
COUNCILMAN Bill Green lee shares moment ATTORNEY Larry Pitt was happy to find JUDGE-Elect Sierra Street enjoys company of her HOST President Pat Eiding, 2nd from left, welcomes Tracy key supporters, LDC’s Ryan Boyer and Sam Staten, himself between two beautiful and talented with Councilwoman Marian Roman, State Rep. Michelle Brownlee and Councilman Jr., as they share AFL-CIO hospitality. Tasco’s aide Derek Green. ladies, Tracy Roman and Phyllis Meloff. Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala Bobby Henon to gala. Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala
Page 23
AFL-CIO Hosts Annual Christmas Party
TWO EDS — Ed Kirlin PUBLIC RECORD’S Ad Dir. and State Rep. Ed NeilCOUNCILWOMAN Marian DONALD “Ducky” Birts SHARING moment with Republican Counsel Michael Meehan, 3rd John David gets thankful smile son — made it evident Tasco is escorted by Hospital shares a happy moment with from left, at AFL-CIO gala were Fire Chief Bill Dell, former State from Judge-Elect Anne Marie they look forward to next Union Chief Henry Nicholas. State Rep. Mark Cohen. Coyle at AFL-CIO gala. Rep. Dave Shadding and attorney Jon Marshall. Photo by Joe Stivala legislative primary. Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala Photo by Joe Stivala
PFT PRESIDENT Jerry Jordan shares moment with Arlene Kempin.
ALL SMILES were DC 47’s newly elected VP Vanessa L. Fields and People Outreach Coordinator Candido Silva, Jr.
SHARING political history with UFCW 1776 Communications Dir. Tara Innamorato were UFCW’s WARD Leader John Sabatina, Sr., Local 830 President John Meyerson, Local 98’s Ed Kirlin and Dave Dan Grace, journalist Joe Stivala and LDC’s Ken Dumphy. Washington, now Recording Secretary for AFL-CIO.
GUBERNATORIAL aspirant Tom Wolf, seen here with John Gabrick, was CONGRATULATING Judge-Elect Anne TRADES Joint Council President Pat Gillespie, HAPPY QUARTET at AFL-CIO party were Janice Darab, among many candidates for Marie Coyle, center, were Lois Kang and Jonathan Saidel, AFL-CIO President Pat Gillespie SEPTA’s Fran Kelly, President and host Pat Eiding, and and Eric Oree take a moment for this photo. various offices in attendance. Councilman David Oh. Grace Croke.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
ATTORNEY GENERAL Kathleen Kane staffer Renee Martin shares moment with AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Elizabeth McElroy.
Page 24
Walking The Beat
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134
Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937
We Gladly Accept Food Coupons
Carl Jeff & Barbara
CARL S FARM
POULTR Y & EGGS
Chicken - Chicken parts - Turkey - Turkey parts Ribs - Bacon - Eggs - Hamburgers - Hot Dogs - Sausage Roasters - Box Lots Available In the Heart of Philadelphia’s Italian Market • 1031 South 9th Street (215) 925-9059 • 1037 South 9th Street (215) 629-1796
We service Big & Small We’ve got it all!
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
We offer rapid response to your request and to your construction needs. 1600-1630 Washington Ave. Phila., PA 19146-3019
2 1 5- 462- 05 05
(Cont. From Page 22) to consider the cost to the TAXPAYERS in that moment of temper on lawsuit settlements. This writer is a Life Member of the SE Police Chiefs.... Did you see that GREAT business article where lack of competition makes prices rise? The classic is how the cost of CABLE TV creeps up and up. I cannot believe a major (?) news story was written from a court testimony fragment where Vince FUMO says he will run for Democratic State Committee. That IS his right. Fumo brought in over $8b to Philly over 30 years when the GOP was in CONTROL. Fumo’s critics may have contributed just wage tax, but maybe no real-estate tax when you live in the “BURBS”. The end of the Fumo article had what seems like a SNIDE remark mentioning Lorraine DiSPALDO. News reporting is supposed to be objective – the Society of Professional Journalists’ CODE OF ETHICS says,
“Do little harm....” The passing of Clarence MARTIN, Jr., a citizen and soldier, was the loss of a gem in the setting of democracy…. Edward “Babe” HEFFRON chose to have a private funeral – not to disturb anyone’s Christmas. His WW2 commanding officer, LT. Dick WINTERS, did just that two years ago. Winters’ grandson asked him, “Grandpop, were you a hero in the war?” “No,” he said, “I served in a COMPANY OF HEROES.” NORTHEAST PHILLY will soon host the Northeast Road Runner-AOH 61-sponsored 5K Race with gifts for needy kids at Pennypack Park on Sunday, says Worshipful Master John KLINE. Bob BRADY and Mike McALEER sponsor the Northeast Ward Leaders holiday party in the FOP Hall on the 19th.... Fire Commissioner Lloyd AYERS accepted a $59,000 check from the Insurance Society to provide 10-year-battery smoke detectors for needy citizens. The University of Pennsylva-
nia gave AYERS 30,000 treetag instructions on maintenance of live Christmas trees. FIREFIGHTERS Local 22 is raising money to buy 1,000 winter coats for kids. Bravo to AYERS and Local 22.... Councilman David OH got zapped in the press for his bill to allow Council Members to run for another office, while not having to resign. OH has said many cities now do it this way. His detractors, who pride themselves on MODERNITY, seem to want to go back in time on this issue (?). Weird, or motive driven? Former State Rep. Bryan LENTZ rightly champions the candidacy of Billy SMITH for legislator in the 164th!... Hard-
money real-estate lenders, and properties stolen with fake deeds – the DA has to jump into this with BOTH FEET. Taxpayers need HELP with an easier REMEDY. STATE REP. Mark COHEN called attention to the rising DOW JONES Average. He said it was good news for PENSION FUNDS and government programs, and more revenue from taxes on capital gains.... Will the candidacy of Orie FEIBUSH for 2nd Dist. Councilman, mean Councilman Kenyatta JOHNSON will not seek to be 36th Ward Leader, but instead will seek reelection votes from the 36th Ward Leader – who could then be Harold JAMES? All if Anna VERNA retires.
Elephant Corner
State Senate a bill that would require prospective teachers and other school workers to be drug-tested prior to employment. The immediate response by the ACLU is the testing was unnecessarily invasive. I have no problem with the State requiring public-school districts to require drug tests – especially in light of the fact every school district in the Commonwealth receives state funding. Has anyone at the ACLU had a real private-sector job? If they have, then they would more than likely been tested for drugs prior to employment. If the prospective teacher finds the test invasive, then they could find employment elsewhere. Making sure the people who teach our children do not use banned substances should not be controversial. Ask the parents what they think. More than likely, they might be surprised testing was not already being done, as they themselves were probably drug-tested before being hired.
(Cont. From Page 22) insinuated the underfunding of the schools fosters racial inequality. Yes, he is right that our underperforming schools impact minorities more. But is that because of a lack of funding? Or is it owing to a school system with procedures that protect underperforming teachers? A school system that spends money on maintaining and administering under-capacity schools? The solution to our underperforming schools is not to throw more money at a dysfunctional system. Fedullo appeared to be suggesting the Bar Association advocate for his views. He is entitled to his opinions, but I know many members of the bar that would not only disagree with opinions on school funding, but also would take issue with public-policy advocacy that is not more directly related to the legal profession. This week the State House of Representatives sent to the
will be the recipients of this year’s collection. The book drive encourages families to donate new or gently used children’s books, preschool through 8th grade.
Waters: Cobbs Creek Trail Grant Development of the Cobbs Creek Connector Trail will move forward due to a state grant from the Pennsylvania Dept. of Conservation &Natural Resources announced today by State Rep. Ronald G. Waters (D-W. Phila.). A $275,000 grant through the Community Conservation Partnership Program will permit Philadelphia to design and construct 0.5 miles of trail along Cobbs Creek Parkway from 70th Street to Woodland Avenue. “This grant will allow the city to make a beautiful addi-
tion to the Cobbs Creek neighborhood,” Waters said. “The trail will be complete with gorgeous landscaping, signage and accessibility for those with disabilities,” he added. The CCPP is administered by DCNR’s Bureau of Recreation & Conservation to provide financial and technical assistance to local governments, river and trail organizations, land trusts and other nonprofits for the planning, acquisition and development of park, recreation, conservation and greenway projects.
Bins to collect the books will be in Valley Green Bank’s South Philadelphia branch at Broad & Tasker (1536 S. Broad Street). The Bank’s two other locations, 7226 Germantown Avenue in Mt. Airy and 23 W. Highland Avenue in Chestnut Hill, will also be collecting books. Bob Marino, Valley Green Bank’s president of the Delaware Valley region, is delighted to be bringing the book drive to South Philly and is pleased to be sponsoring such a worthwhile initiative. “There is no better way to support our children than to encourage them to be avid, accomplished readers; and, as we all know, reading is a key to success in pursuing a lifetime of learning,” he said. Mastery Charter Schools’ CEO Scott Gordon is thrilled the Mastery
Charter Schools’ elementary students were chosen to benefit from this year’s drive and commented, “Our elementary schools serve over 5,100 students in the city. Many of our students coming from formerly low performing district schools are 3-4 grade levels below where they should be in reading and making sure they have books creates a culture of learning that will serve them well in realizing their future dreams. We are grateful to Valley Green Bank for creating this wonderful partnership that benefits our youngest learners.”
Out & ABout
6700 Essington Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19153 ______________________ 215.492.1700 www.pacificocars.com Rocky has been in the auto business since 1994. He has been recognized by Ford Motor Company with numerous achievements including Master Certified in car and trucks. He’ll use his experience to help you maximize your benefits and reduce your expenses! Advertisement
NEWS RAN AWAY Part 145/150 "THE INQUIRER: THERE'S NO BETTER TIME TO ENJOY A PULITZER PRIZE-WINNING NEWSPAPER READ EVERY DAY BY YOUR NEIGHBORS. THEY ALL KNOW THEY CAN COUNT ON THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER TO DELIVER IN-DEPTH NEWS WITH A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE AND A LOCAL HEART. ..SAVE 50% OFF THE FIRST 4 WEEKS... DON'T FORFEIT YOUR CHANCE TO GRAB THIS GREAT OFFER..." --Hal Donnelly, Director, Circulation October, 2013 PNI (Phila Newspapers, Inc., a subsidiary of KNIGHTRIDDER), published the Phila INQUIRER & DAILY NEWS from 1969 to 2006.
Initiator of The Tea Party Movement —Nicola Argentina (c) 2013
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
(Cont. From Page 22) who don’t sleep and are trying to figure out how to keep a roof over their heads, food in the pantry and warm clothes on them and their children’s backs. And I hear the way they talk to their kids. I don’t think a four-year-old knows what an MF is. But it’s a word that’s been directed at them. And don’t even get me started on some of the treatment I see little boys get from their mothers. But while it’s hard to watch, I understand where it comes from and so do the folks who did this study. If you’re a parent who is demeaning your kid in the name of discipline, chances are that’s because it’s how you were taught to parent. If you’re going to chastise your kid, that has to be balanced with telling him or her they’re not totally useless. A lot of times, that doesn’t happen. And then we wonder why we have kids who think so little of themselves and others that pulling out a gun and shooting each other is just another day at the office. I may print out some copies of this study and stick them in my briefcase to hand out to folks on the bus.
Good Credit • Bad Credit No Credit • Don’t Sweat it!
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
In the holiday spirit, Valley Green Bank is holding its 6th annual local book drive from today through Dec. 31. The Mastery Charter elementary schools
Page 25
Valley Green Bank Sponsors Holiday Book Drive Pacifico Ford
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 26
Highest Cash Paid Instantly For Junk Cars No Keys - No Title No Problem!!! Call: 215-715-9316 UP TO $1100 FOR CARS OR TRUCKS WITH BAD ENGINES OR TRANSMISSIONS $$450.00CASH$$ FOR ANY JUNK CAR OR TRUCK WITH OR WITHOUT TITLE:
215-669-1000
dedicated run hauling plate glass needed. All Miles Paid! Also need regional stepdeck and RGN Contractors. Contact Daily Express 800-669-6414 Owner Operator DEDICATED HOME WEEKLY! Solos up to $175,000/year, $2500 Sign-on Bonus! Teams up to $350,000/year, $5000 Sign-on Bonus! Forward Air 888-6525611 Exp. Reefer Drivers: GREAT PAY /Freight lanes from Presque Isle, ME, BostonLehigh, PA. 800-277-0212 or driveforprime.com Drivers- CDL-A DRIVERS NEEDED. Now hiring solos &
teams in your area! Small Company, BIG Benefits! Top Pay for Hazmat. CDL Grads Welcome. 8 8 8 - 9 2 8 - 6 0 1 1 www.TotalMS.com HELP WANTED SALES WANTED: LIFE AGENTS: Earn $500 a Day; Great Agent Benefits; Commissions Paid Daily; Complete Training; Leads, Leads, Leads; NO LICENSE NECESSARY TO APPLY. Call 1-888-713-6020. LAND FOR SALE TURNKEY FAMILY CAMP FOR SALE Beautifully Finished Cabin on 5 Acres, Woods and Nice Lawn, Quiet Country
Road, Stocked Fishing Pond & Guest Cabin. On Snowmobile Trail. Only $69,995. Call 800229-7843 Or visit www.LandandCamps.com MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4897.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N AIRLINE CAREERS begin here - Get FAA approved Aviation Technician training. Financial Aid for qualified students. Job
Drivers: $2,500 Sign-on bonus! Heavy Haul O/O’s. Up to 78% of freight bill plus FSC! CDL-A Company positions available. 2 yrs exp hauling oversize freight req. 1-800-835-9471
The company for women and a few good men TO BUY OR SELL contact:
MARY IERO Independent Sales Representative
National Recruiter
215-906-1321
CHRISTMAS CASH WE BUY CARS & TRUCKS. $300-$3000
placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-888-834-9715 NOTICES/BIDS WANTED Construction Bids. Statewide ezIQC, indefinite quantity construction contracts. Prebids: December 9-13. Bid openings: January 3, 2014. Contact Keystone Purchasing Network for details: (888) 490-3182 or visit: www.theKPN.org HELP WANTED DRIVER **EAST REGION ONLY: Dedicated Class A CDL Drivers Wanted! Weekly Home Time, Competitive Pay, Excellent Benefits Package. Apply online at www.DriveJTC.com or call 866-511-1134 for more information.
CDL-A Drivers: Looking for Higher Pay? New Century is Hiring Exp. Company Drivers and Owner Operators. Both Solo and Teams. Competitive pay package. Sign-On Incentive. Also looking for experienced drivers willing to train. Call (888) 903-8863 or apply online at: www.drivenctrans.com HELP WANTED DRIVER **WEST REGION ONLY: Solo & Team CDL-A Drivers! Excellent Home Time & Pay! $3000 to $5,000 Sign-on Bonus! BCBS Benefits. Join Super Service! 877-457-1313 DriveForSuperService.com
Whitaker Auto Sales
K & A Auto Salvage Inc. 2160-66 E. Somerset - Phila., PA 19134 215-423-4255 Fax: 215-423-4256 In accordance with chapter 73 of the vehicle Code Authorization of the department of Transportation the Following Vehicles are located Vehicles will be publicly auctioned @ K&A AUTO salvage inc @9:00 am on December 12, 2013 year 1995 1995 2001 2004 2007 2004 2002 2001 2003
make FORD FORD FORD CHRYSLER NISSAN TOYOTA JAGUAR CADILLAC BUICK
Vin 1ZVCT20A3S5100430 1FDEE14H0SHB50994 1FAFP33P21W162684 2C8GM68454R592664 1N4BA41E07C834887 JTDDR32T740168031 SAJEA53C32WC18024 1G6KD54Y41U235573 1G4HR54K53U183664
AVC# 753808 765112 886496 925749 926871 927480 929334 929861 930581
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
HELP WANTED Heavy Equipment Operator Training! Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. 3 Weeks Hands On Program. Local Job Placement Assistance. National Certifications. GI Bill Benefits Eligible. 1866-362-6497 2013-2014 VACANCIES: Earth Science (9-12), -Signing Bonus $2,000, English (9-12), Prince Edward County Public Schools, Farmville, VA - 434-315-2100. www.pecps.k12.va.us Closing Date: Until Filled. EOE HELP WANTED DRIVER Regional Owner Operators for
Page 27
Public Record Classifieds: small ADS BIG Deals
4220 Whitaker Ave. Philadelphia PA 19124 215-427-6044 | 215-425-2255 | Fax: 215-739-6286 Website: www.whitakerautosales.com
ELECTRICIAN BARRY FISHER LICENSED ELECTRICIAN
Over 42yrs experience low prices, fast service lic/ins* FHA/VA Cert
215-927-0234
ANY C0NDITI0N. CALL NOW 4 CASH 2DAY..
267-800-3227
Public Record Classifieds : small ADS BIG Deals 215-755-2000 Say You Saw It In The PUBLIC RECORD
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Cash-Paid
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • December 12, 2013
Page 28