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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. XVI No. 01 (Issue 727)

Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19114 215-698-7000 rPhillyRecord.com

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Why “Goo” Makes Sense! Page 7

Spelling It Right In Fishtown !!!

OUR BELATED Congratulations to over 140 children who competed in annual Great Fishtown Spelling Bee. They were from St. Laurentius, Adaire, Penn Treaty, Mother of Divine Grace, St. Peter and LaSalle Academy. Making it happen were volunteers Ginny Clark; Marge Wible, Shissler Rec staff, Tim Seaton and Penn 6915 Essington Ave. Wills & Estate Probate • Home & Business Treaty HS’s Student Gov- Property • Damage Claims • Personal Injury • Family & Criminal Matters ernment, Jenna Beck, www. MirarchiLegal.Net Best Warranty & Service!

MEMBERS of Carpenters Union gather around sign Tim Breslin and Nicole Emergency Call-Back Consultations Available which sums up reason they were outside dental of- Zemick, as well as Around the Clock fices at Broad & Moore Streets. Renovations are NKCDC and Penn Treaty Seven Days Per Week being done by non-union contractor.

Special Services Dis215-545-5090 www.Phillyrecord.com trict’s support.

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2014:

Make See Page 2 Or Break Year For Doctors!

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

Page 2

Where Are Our Physicians?

Pennsylvania Losing In Effort To Retain Young Doctors Concerns about the number of Pennsylvania’s primary-care physicians have been raised as the state looks to expand access to health care across the commonwealth. Gov. Corbett’s Healthy Pennsylvania Plan includes a call to increase the number of residency positions in the state to train new primarycare physicians.

Yet when it comes to keeping new physicians, Pennsylvania ranks low – 37th in the country in retaining those completing in-state medical education through medical schools, residency slots, and fellowship positions. Many leave to practice in states that have more favorable loan-forgiveness programs, for example. However, given the large number of

medical schools in the state, many students and trainees come to Pennsylvania to attend one of its nine medical schools and return to their home states upon graduation.

A new physician workforce report from the Association of American Medical Colleges gives Pennsylvania a high ranking on the percentage of doctors engaged in patient care compared to other states, but highlights problems retaining newly graduated physicians from instate medical education programs.

“Considering the report indicates Pennsylvania has the 4thhighest percentage of medical-school students in the country, we should be concerned that our retention rate ap-

pears low,” says Bruce A. MacLeod, MD, president of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and a practicing emergency medicine physician in Pittsburgh. “For sure, the report indicates the need for those parts of Gov. Corbett’s Healthy PA plan aimed at attracting young physicians to stay in the state.”

Gov. Corbett’s Healthy PA plan proposed an increase in funding for loan-forgiveness programs for young physicians willing to practice in medically underserved locations in Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvania finds itself in a relatively healthy situation today as far as our statewide data go,” says Dr. MacLeod.

“But there are signals that new physicians are looking to prac-

tice elsewhere. Even though we’re in good shape today, we have to make sure we can replace those physicians who are retiring or planning to retire while also keeping up with health care demand – especially in light of health-care expansions proposed by Gov. Corbett.”

According to the 2013 State Physician Workforce Data Book, Pennsylvania ranks 10th in percentage of physicians engaged in patient care, with 253 per 100,000 residents. This is an improvement from 2010, where Pennsylvania ranked 11th at 247 physicians per 100,000 residents. Pennsylvania also jumped to 8th in total number of active physicians, including those who work in research and those in

administrative positions, compared to ninth in 2010. According to the report, Pennsylvania had a total of 38,565 active physicians based upon the latest reporting data. States with the highest number of active physicians were California with 97,977; New York with 68,673; and Texas with 54,167. Pennsylvania is the sixth most-populated state in the country.

Nearly a third of Pennsylvania’s physicians are female, making it 20th compared to all others. Most expect this percentage to increase over time since almost half of all new medical-school graduates are women. Pennsylvania was also in the middle of the rankings (18th) in percentage of primarycare physicians.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Physicians Foundation Concerned Over Paperwork As the New Year approaches and significant changes continue to impact the US health-care system, a nonprofit organization, the Physicians Foubndation, that seeks to advance the work of practicing physicians and help facilitate the delivery of healthcare to patients has identified five key areas that will have major effects on practicing physicians and their ability / capacity to deliver the professional, highquality and compassionate care for which they are trained in 2014.

The trend toward medical consolidation is increasing rapidly, and is seen across healthcare systems and insurance companies alike. Additional consolidation carries the danger of a move toward monopolization – eroding competition in the medical marketplace, driving more physicians out of independent practice and increasing healthcare costs.

While the ACA may bring new insurance options to some areas, the total number of health insurers has been decreasing for some time through consolidation – making it diffi-

cult for physicians to negotiate favorable terms. As this trend continues, many smaller practices may feel pushed toward joining larger health systems, not because the small operators are unable to provide highquality, cost-efficient care, but because regional monopolies control the market.

Regulatory burdens are growing. The Foundation found physicians are currently spending 22% of their time on non-clinical paperwork. Current regulatory requirements already take a substantial amount of time away from patient care, impacting both efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a physician’s practice. Add to this the looming October 2014 deadline for ICD-10 coding implementation – which will require more documentation, revised forms, re-training of staff and changes to office technology – and this percentage of time spent away from patients will likely continue to increase.

The ICD-10 code set for physician practices contains approximately 69,000 codes, a significant jump from the 7,600 codes it is replacing. In

addition, this adoption will necessitate the implementation of the next generation of HIPAA electronic transaction standards. It is vital that practicing physicians not only thoroughly prepare for this transition, but also that they speak out about the negative impact this escalation of administrative burdens will continue to have on patient care.

The recent launch of healthinsurance exchanges is already driving high levels of confusion among patients, physicians and employers. With minimal education and support from the government, many privatepractice physicians are unsure how these new insurance policies will affect their practices.

Beyond technical glitches related to sign-up, there are concerns among physicians over whether reimbursement rates will be lowered, and whether they will be able to control the numbers of exchange-based patients added to their rolls – or if a significant number of their patients will suddenly “disappear” due to changes in insurance coverage. Not only may there be difficulties collecting

out-of-pocket charges – since exchange enrollees who have been using emergency rooms for treatment are not as accustomed to paying co-pays and deductibles – but according to a these patients are likely to have higher medical expenditures.

A critical component of health reform is the adoption and integration of health information technology. One barrier that must be addressed is the fact many of these systems do not yet communicate with one another. The idea that electronic health records would be shareable among physician practices, ultimately creating efficiencies and better patient care, is not happening, nor is it likely to occur in the near future. In addition, rules on how to protect the security and privacy of patient information – beyond what HIPAA has already established – have not yet been set. As physicians and healthcare providers engage in the advancement of HIT, it is imperative that they seek out and the impact these new systems will have on the practice of medicine.

Physicians worry the healthcare system is approaching some crippling stalemates. As the nation’s physicians observe the challenges facing the initial roll-out of the ACA – as well as the drama surrounding the recent US government shutdown – there is growing concern that important issues affecting the health-care system are not being properly managed. These concerns include the sustainable growth rate, which could trigger a 24% cut in physician payments as of Jan. 1, 2014, and ongoing challenges around tort reform and “defensive medicine.” Another prolonged government stalemate could potentially disrupt Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, putting further pressure on both physician practices and access to care.

“While the promise of a better future for health care remains, the current path is leading us towards a more-monopolistic, bureaucratic and costly healthcare system,” said Lou Goodman, PhD, president of The Physicians Foundation and chief executive officer.

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. ©1999-2014 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.

Were you there in 1974?

Were you a former Philly gang member in the 1970s? Did you sign the Imani Pact ending Philadelphia gang violence?

This pledge was signed by 105 gangs, ending gang warfare on our streets, which is why Queen Mother Falaka Fattah of the House of Umoja and Philadelphia Ceasefire are holding a 40th anniversary of the Imani Pledge on New Year’s Day at Temple Administration Services Building, NYKCOOL vessel M/V Belgian Reefer provides additional service to Chile during winter fruit season as it plies route from home base, Packer Avenue Marine Terminal in South Philadelphia.

each year, and NYKCool has maintained continuous high quality service to the Delaware River for over 30 years.

“The first journey south marked the unofficial start of the Chilean winter fruit season for the Port of Philadelphia, which is now underway,” said Leo A Holt, president of Holt Logistics Corp. “Upon return to Philadelphia, the Belgian Reefer unloads a bounty of fresh fruit, including table grapes, blueberries, peaches,

2450 Hunting Park Avenue.

The event starts at noon with a luncheon. Emceeing the gathering, which includes workshops, with entertainment by a dance-and-drum ensemble is poet Dr. Maurice Henderson.

For further information contact Queen Mother Falaka Fattah, founder of House of Umoja, at (215) 473-5893 or Dr. Minnie Moore-Johnson, chair, communication committee, at (215) 696-8524.

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

The NYKCool vessel M/V Belgian Reefer now travels from the Port of Philadelphia’s Packer Avenue Marine Terminal to Chile to bring back fruit from that country, a change in the normal routine when Chilean fruit comes in by ship from that country.

The Belgian Reefer is part of the global fleet of one of the largest conventional specialized refrigerated carriers in the world, NYKCool of Stockholm, Sweden. The vessel is loaded with empty refrigerated containers bound for Chile, where it takes on a full load of cargo and containers after the twelve day voyage south.

Upon its return to the Delaware River, the Belgian Reefer carries fresh Chilean fruit for distribution throughout the United States and Canada. Chile ships over 50 million cases of fruit through the Delaware River gateway

House of Umoja Calling Old Heads

Page 3

Going To Chile For Fresh Fruit

cherries, nectarines and other produce, that is a staple of the winter fruit season. This partnership with NYKCool has yielded over four decades of employment for thousands of longshoreman, teamsters and other workers, and we are eager to begin another year of quality and expedient service.”

The NYKCool service is part of the 360 Quality Partnership, a global food safety initiative spearheaded by the specialized refrigerated carriers.

OBITUARY — Gus Pedicone gressional Record by Congressman Bob Brady who called him “a great leader to his community. His achievements are well worth noting as they demonstrate the positive results that come with hard work and determination.

“Perhaps such determination and desire to succeed came about through Gus’s

early years as a soldier. Serving in both World War II and the Korean conflict.

“Soon after his career as a soldier, Gus entered the political arena, first as a committeeman, then as a Republican ward leader for the 26th Ward. Gus Pedicone should be recognized for his legacy as a role model.”

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Former 26th Ward Republican Leader Gus Pedicone’s Funeral Mass was held at St. Monica Monday morning.

Contributions in his memory can be made to St. Monica Church, 17th & Ritner.

During his career as a ward leader he earned the respect of leaders of both major parties.

He was mentioned in the Con-

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

Page 4

Maiale Retiring After 22 Years As SERS Chairman Long-time State Employees’ Retirement System Chairman, former State Rep. Nick Maiale, has decided to tender his resignation as chairman at the Jan. 22 board meeting in Harrisburg.

In November, Maiale was told his chief investment officer Anthony Clark he was being investigated for possible financial improprieties. Maiale took some heat from State Treasurer Rob McCord for revealing the investigation to Clark.

Maiale, a Democrat, has chaired the politically appointed SERS board under Republican Gov. Corbett and four previous governors, both Republicans and Democrats, ending 22 years of illustrious service.

On his watch, SERS has pursued a complex diversificaState Representative

Nick Maiale ..dedicated public servant tion strategy aimed at boosting pension assets while guarding against losses in declining markets.

Total SERS gains have exceeded the system’s annual 7.5% target so far this year, but lagged behind the surging US stock market. SERS saw the most-dynamic growth in its 63year history.

Maiale’s role in this transformation predates his move into the board chair. A

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

Philadelphia lawyer, he served as a Representative in the General Assembly from 1980 to 1992. In 1985, he was appointed to the SERS board as a legislative member, and six years later he drafted the original “prudent-person” legislation. During that time he resigned from his post as Democratic leader of the 1st Ward in Philadelphia.

When Maiale became chairman, the board was not fully staffed and was concentrating much of its energy on shortterm issues and objectives. One of his first initiatives was getting the three parties responsible for board appointments to move ahead with the process.

Within two years, the board was fully staffed.

One of his recent critics, McCord, has a short memory.

He is criticizing Maiale for the same methodology that enabled him to receive help from public pension funds when he was 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

Manufacturing Task Force Report

STATE AND CITY officials joined Mayor Michael Nutter at assembly plant AgustaWestland in N.E. Phila. to announce Manufacturing Task Force report. With him are State Rep. Ed Neilson; PIDC President John Grady; State Rep. Brendan Boyle; Task Force CoChairs Dan Fitzpatrick, CEO Citizens Bankl; Bill Hunt, CEO AgustaWestland; State Sens.

Anthony Williams and Tina Tartaglione; Nutter; Task Force Co-chairs Councilman Bobby Henon and Alan Greenberger; and Councilman David Oh. raising money for his own fund, which was called PAEarlyStateFund.

Governing Magazine Likes Boyle, Fleck

State Reps. Brendan Boyle (D-Northeast) and Mike Fleck (R-Huntingdon) are set to have a happy new year, at least according to Governing magazine. The periodical dedicated to state and local governments named both men to their list of 12 state legislators to watch out for in 2014.

“This list in particular includes legislators who have shown a keen ability to strike

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

alliances across party lines, or who have racked up significant accomplishments during their time in office so far,” Louis Jacobson, the author of the list, explained. “Each of these lawmakers has a compelling personal story that informs the way he or she governs.”

The two State Reps are opposites in many ways. Boyle represents a part of Philadelphia, is a big backer of labor unions and earned a master’s degree from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. Fleck, meanwhile, represents a rural district outside of Councilman

Mark

Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332

215-686-3458/59

Sen.Mike Stack SERVING THE 5TH DISTRICT

Guzzardi Gives Corbett Tea Party Trouble

Far-right activist Bob Guzzardi, a real-estate investor in Montgomery Co., has vowed (Cont. Next Page) 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

Harrisburg, is a strong defender of agricultural interests and graduated from Liberty University.

Boyle’s priorities in Harrisburg have also included legislation which would require the teaching of the Holocaust, and other examples of genocide, to students in grades 6 through 12.

Additionally, Boyle has sponsored a domestic-violence reform package of bills aimed addressing numerous inefficiencies within domestic-violence court proceedings.

A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE

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

Mark B.

COHEN 215-342-6340 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

John

Taylor (R) 177th Dist.

4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137

215-744-2600

A Woman Mayor Sought For 2015

Given all the buzz that 2014 may be the “Year of the Woman” in Pennsylvania politics, some Philadelphia insiders are already wondering if it will continue into the 2015 Philadelphia mayoral race.

The field of potential candidates is already large and no one person has an obvious lead. A situation like this may tempt many candidates to stay in the race, creating a dynamic like the exciting five-way race in 2007. In such a scenario, the mathematics shift radically and may create an opening for a candidate with a new theme: gender.

State Rep.

William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

215-271-9190

Much informal discussion has already taken place among influential women over who might make a viable candidate.

Among a dozen names floated are former DA Lynne Abraham, charity execs Renee Cardwell Hughes and Alba Martinez, and Councilwoman Maria Quiñones Sánchez.

Some prominent possibilities, however, have already opined they doubt they can raise enough money for an effective race. We suspect Cardwell Hughes of Red Cross and Martinez of United Way are shrewd judges when it comes to fundraising. Could Terri Gillen, currently director of federal affairs for the Nutter Administration, inherit some of her boss’s formidable funding connections?

Failing that, others are asking if there is room for a lower-budget woman candidate. Some progressives have lately been bringing up the name of Helen Gym. This feisty advocate for public schools is already well known

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

Progressives Taking Meet Reservations

PA Progressive Summit will feature Jim Hightower, the brash former Texas elected official now billed as “today’s modern-day Johnny Appleseed,” at its state meeting at the Hilton in Harrisburg, Feb. 28 to Mar. 1. Gubernatorial and lieutenant-gubernatorial

candidates will debate.

Recently elected Democrat US Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia is also among the speakers.

Isaiah Thomas Still Raising Campaign $$

He tried, and got a high ballot position, for City Council at age 23. North Philadelphia educator and activist Isaiah Thomas still is networking and building an army of fringe as well as powerful Dems to support his future endeavors.

His latest email for campaign donations indicates he has plans to get involved again as a candidate.

Matt Wolfe Will Run If Bill Green Quits

If there is validity to media reports the Governor is con(Cont. Page 8)

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.

and has been campaigning around the city for her cause for years. She could deny progressive support to other candidates and make an appeal to apolitical parents of all stripes.

She is a formidable advocate with the energy for a race.

Needed for Gym, or any other woman candidate, is a professional team that can form behind her soon and supplement her strengths with theirs.

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

State Rep.

Hershey Trust Co. and the Jerry Sandusky investigation and wants a housecleaning in the State Republican Party.

Few at this stage expect Guzzardi actually to topple Corbett this spring. But a strong primary challenge can boost the Governor’s negatives and drain cash from his fall reelection drive.

Page 5

(Cont. From Prev. page) to challenge incumbent Republican Gov. Tom Corbett in the May 2014 primary. In doing so he will be stirring the pot for the beleaguered Governor, who faces a platoon of Democrats jostling for the chance to take him on in November.

Guzzardi has been vigorous in conservative state politics for a decade. His views align closely with the Tea Party but predate that movement by many years. He has money in his own right and was a formidable fundraiser in the grassroots revolt over legislative and judicial pay raises that unseated several entrenched Republican officials in 2006. So a primary effort by Guzzardi in 2014 will not be laughed off

by Corbett’s campaign team.

Guzzardi’s current thinking is he will run a low-budget race that relies heavily on social media and activist networks to turn out voters against Corbett. That may not be hard: a November survey found 47% of Republican primary voters wanted to dump Corbett while only 42% wanted to keep him.

And that was before the transportation bill passed. The Governor did heavy lifting to get this $2.4 billion allocation through the General Assembly. While many observers see this accomplishment as a plus that may boost the Corbett’s standing among General Election voters, Tea Partiers regard it as a betrayal of the pledge he made to Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist never to increase taxes. So their long knives will be out for Corbet, and Guzzardi may draw a generic “anti” vote from Republicans who are weary of the incumbent for other reasons.

“There is a very-reasonable scenario I can win this primary,” said Guzzardi. He sees no way he can win in November -- but he sees no way Corbett can win the general election either.

“My goal is to beat the Harrisburg establishment,” Guzzardi explained. He views Corbett as complicit in major scandals swirling around the

Page 6

With the UNIONS

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

Carpenters Delivered In Time For Christmas

UNLIKE UPS and FedEx, Edward Coryell, Jr. and Phila. Carpenters Local 8 annual toy drive yielded more than 20 bags of toys to support local charities. Local 8 members John Rowan and Ed Twiford deliver toys to Whitman Council in S. Phila. and St. Christopher’s Hosp. for Children in time for arrival on Christmas Day.

Brady Saves Monarchs’ Party RESCUING championship Overbrook Monarchs’ awards banquet with $5k check were Congressman Bob Brady, center, and his aide Rich Subbio, where being thanked by Monarchs President Sonantonious Moore at Granahan Rec. This sports league achieves stellar results but most of its football players are on full scholarship.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Brady Check Aids Overbrook Monarch

Congressman Bob Brady (D-Phila.) made 2014 a memorable one for the Overbrook Monarchs as he presented them with a check for $5,000 to help defray the cost of the team’s

quick For me it’s about getting e a question. hav I ver ene wh rs we ans rs the kind Valley Green Bank delive vice you’d ser e siv pon res of personal, bank. expect from a community

VALLEY GREEN BANK GETS A GOLD STAR!

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awards banquet in January.

Sonantonious “Sonny” Moore, president of the Overbrook Monarchs Youth Athletic Association, said the banquet is important “because it is the op-

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portunity, off the field, to recognize the players for their accomplishments during the season. And it is also a time to thank the parents and our volunteers for their support.”

Brady said it was a scramble to find the money but because of a generous donation he was able to make it happen.

He added, “In these hard economic times we often overlook the organizations that are on the front line making a difference in the lives of our children. I personally know what a difference this team makes in this community so I was determined to support them.”

Page 7

Our Opinion

Watch Our Politics In 2014! (China Does)

Dec. 31- State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown hosts New Year’s Eve Cabaret at 5022 Lancaster Ave., 10 p.m.-2 p.m. Music from ’60s to present. Strand, Bop, Cha-Cha, Line Dance and your own Dance. Tickets $30 in advance, $40 at door. For tickets call Elizabeth (215) 298-1579 or (215) 324 5919.

Dec. 31- John Fritz announces for Congressional

13th Dist. at New Year’s Eve Party, United Republican Cl., 3156 Frankford Ave. RSVP FritzForCongress@gmail.com or (215) 792-3898.

Jan. 6- Baptist Ministers Conference Installation Service at New Gethsemane Baptist Ch., 917 E. Chelten Ave. Dinner 5-6:45 p.m., service 7 p.m.

Host pastor Rev. Samuel B. Jordan, Jr.; outgoing Pres.

Rev. Harry Bronson, Pres.Elect Rev. Ronald C. Parker, Sr., pastor of New Macedonia Baptist Ch.. For info Archbishop Anthony Floyd (214) 226-5025.

Jan. 9- Councilwoman Cindy Bass hosts Expungement In-

formation Clinic at Triumph Baptist Ch., Germantown & Hunting Park Aves., 6-8 p.m.

Jan. 9- State Rep. Curtis Thomas hosts Affordable Health Care Enrollment Workshop at African American United Fund Conference Center, 2231 N. Broad St., 6 p.m. Staff can enroll people onsite. For this you must bring Social Security nos. (or document nos. for legal immigrants), employer and income information for every member of household who needs coverage, policy nos. for any current health-insurance plans. Space is limited. To be enrolled at workshop contact Natalie Davis (215) 560-3261.

most Philadelphians, I voted for a change, voting for Republican candidates, no on all retention judges and no on the bond question, which can only be funded by higher taxes.

Keep up the good reporting!

John J. McTague S. Washington Sq.

Letters • Letters

Pro-Shaheeli I always read with interest your columns about the local political scene.

Because of the continuous and unchanging opinion of

(ED. REPLY: Shaheeli tells us he is deeply moved to learn someone appreciates his work. Happy New Year.)

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

abandonment of an ill-advised effort to privatize the Pennsylvania Lottery came early enough to allow senior voters time to forget.

But his Democratic foe will still belabor him with the millions he spent on a pointless exercise.

Our crystal ball looks clear enough for us to see the turnout in Philadelphia controlling the outcomes in the gubernatorial, congressional and possibly the contested legislative seats.

If 50% of Philadelphia voters turn out, we can guarantee a win for Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz in the Democratic Primary for Governor and a win for State Rep. Brendan Boyle in the 13th Congressional Dist.

Our crystal ball is still churning up mist when we try to read the outcome of the 174th Legislative Dist. Democratic primary, which has State Reps. John Sabatina, Jr. and Ed Neilson butting heads, due to reapportionment. We looked to the Chinese to help us with this one, but they don’t come cheap, since they are not yet interested in where the big money comes from in Philadelphia elections. They figure, if voters don’t care, why should they?

Already, though, we can see a keener interest in municipal government by next November. Tens of thousands of voters will have just received their new Actual Value Initiative tax bills from the City and it will have dawned on them that municipal policy-making during 2013 has had huge consequences in their pocketbook.

We also see – what is that, a freight train heading straight at us with its headlights blazing and horn blaring? No, it’s the 2014-15 School District budget. If you think parents were unhappy this fall – just wait until next November.

Much of what made the current school year salvageable depended on one-time fixes. No easy fixes will be in reach next year. Sadly, expect our school crisis to get worse.

City pensions need a long-term solution. We hope bright minds will be hard at work to come up with solutions but we fear they will once again be distracted by other issues.

On the plus side, real labor peace may at last be in reach. The drawn-out struggle between the administration and public employees that has crippled long-term planning will, we predict, come to an end as both sides see the need for conclusion outweighs the ill will that has arisen.

We’ll continue to bring our readers the most-complete reports as to the progress of all the candidates in the various races of interest to Philadelphians. We also promise not to give up trying to whip up the enthusiasm of the active members of all parties in getting out the vote and in increasing voter interest.

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

With the New Year bringing us an exciting Democratic primary and possibly even a Republican primary fight in the race for Governor, we are shocked to learn Chinese hackers are continuing to be successful as they probe, literally at will and with ease, the Federal Election Commission.

It’s true! It’s been confirmed by the Federal Inspector General.

Files hacked included, we understand, the tracking of over $6 billion in political spending plus access to FEC investigations, General Counsel’s reports, subpoenas and personal identifying information.

It’s also been reported Chinese hackers crashed FEC computer systems just after the government shutdown on Oct. 1, when no employees were designated as essential, and as a result, non were on premises to react against the first signs of a breach attempt.

While the Feds involve themselves in another “who’s to blame game”, we ponder why would the Chinese seek those records from an agency hardly one in 10 Americans know exists … especially since only one in 10 voters took the time to vote in our last municipal election?

We ask your thoughts! We offer one: the money trail. They want to learn who still has enough money to spend in American political campaigns now costing billions. Where they go with that is more of a mystery. But they may be able to use these data to connect US political candidates with business interests that impact China.

The Chinese government may even be able to learn how best to funnel its own campaign funds into our domestic races as a result. Do not assume, in an era where “black money” is increasingly important in our politics, that all this money was raised inside the USA. We have enough to interest us in this coming May 20 primary. The Democrats won’t be able to come up with an endorsement. The field is weighed with formidable candidates, each claiming sizeable support from the various cliques in that State Committee. Example, Allyson Schwartz already has the endorsement of Philadelphia’s powerful City Committee Chairman Congressman Bob Brady.

The Republicans will endorse their incumbent Governor and Lieutenant Governor, though all the polls label the team “one-termers”. There will be an attempt to force an open primary as witnessed by the efforts of potential challengers, but Tom Corbett and Jim Cawley have the big guns.

For the fall – swirling mists obscure our gaze. Much depends on what the man at the top, Corbett, does in Pennsylvania. His recent

election.

If that happens, 27th Ward Leader Matt Wolfe announced he will seek the Republican nomination, Without those ifs,

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

CITY COUNCIL Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290

he will run in the Republican primary for Council at Large in 2015, he says, for sure.

His website, WolfeforCityCouncil.com, will detail what dialogue he will bring to a race.

While Green is still up in the air, an important rule change is already certain to be

on the May 20 ballot. City Council voted 16-0 for a referendum to change the City Charter to remove the requirement that they and other city officials have to resign from the office they hold if they want to run for another office.

That will be for voters to approve.

2014 NOTICE OF STATED MEETINGS

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA

The Philadelphia City Council will have its Regular Stated Meetings on the dates listed below.

All meetings will be held at 10:00 A.M. in Room 400 City Hall.

CITY COUNCIL Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290

Thursday, January 23, 2014 Thursday, January 30, 2014 Thursday, February 6, 2014 Thursday, February 13, 2014 Thursday, February 20, 2014 Thursday, February 27, 2014 Thursday, March 6, 2014 Thursday, March 13, 2014 Thursday, March 20, 2014 Thursday, March 27, 2014 Thursday, April 3, 2014 Thursday, April 10, 2014 Thursday, April 24, 2014 Thursday, May 1, 2014 Thursday, May 8, 2014 Thursday, May 15, 2014 Thursday, May 22, 2014

Thursday, June 5, 2014 Thursday, June 12, 2014 Thursday, June 19, 2014 Thursday, September 11, 2014 Thursday, September 18, 2014 Thursday, September 25, 2014 Thursday, October 2, 2014 Thursday, October 9, 2014 Thursday, October 16, 2014 Thursday, October 23, 2014 Thursday, October 30, 2014 Thursday, November 13, 2014 Thursday, November 20, 2014 Thursday, December 4, 2014 Thursday, December 11, 2014 Michael A. Decker Chief Clerk

2014 NOTICE OF VETERANS ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETINGS The Veterans Advisory Commission, established pursuant to Resolution No. 060059 (Adopted February 2, 2006), will meet in City Council Chambers (Room 400, City Hall) on the following dates and times.

Wednesday, March 5th, 2014, at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, June 18th, 2014, at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, September 10th, 2014, at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 10th, 2014, at 2:00 P.M. EDWARD SPELLER, CHAIRMAN Veterans Advisory Commission

Store Hours: Tue.-Sat.: 9-4 (Closed Sundays & Mondays)

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Jubelirer Now With Bellevue Bellevue Communications Group announced Jubelirer Strategies and its two executives will join Bellevue beginning in January.

The merger will bring veteran communications strategist Jeff Jubelirer as VP and Johanna Kilbride as account executive along with the firm’s existing clients.

“We have long admired Jeff’s work in issue management and crisis communications,” said Bellevue President Kevin Feeley. “Together we can offer a tremendous amount of complementary experience, talent and creativity to existing and prospective clients.

“On behalf of the staff of Bellevue Communications Group, we extend a heartfelt (Cont. Page 15)

Dec. 31, 2013 To Jan. 9, 2014

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Cont. From Page 5) sidering Councilman Bill Green as the new head of the School Reform Commission. If

it happens, Councilman Green will have to resign from City Council and there may be a special election, possibly on May 20, the day of the primary

Page 9 The Public Record • January 2, 2014

Celebrate

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Day A Special Issue Coming Out On January 16th, 2014 Call John David: 215-755-2000 for Details

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With an Ad That Reflects Your Support of His Life’s Works!

Page 10 The Public Record • January 2, 2014 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Happy New Year! Every year deserves its eulogy and 2013 is no exception. On municipal, state and federal levels the Republicans had wins, losses and a few draws.

There were some real wins and some unforced errors. Did we really shut down the government over Obamacare, an issue we did not have the votes in the Senate to win?

All we Republicans needed to do wait and watch this seriously flawed law implode. The messy rollout in my opinion is only the tip of the iceberg.

In Philadelphia, the party did okay. Actually, more than okay. The six-year civil war in the Republican Party came to end with both sides agreeing to a new Chairman, State REP. JOHN TAYLOR, and a new Executive Director, JOE DeFELICE. Taylor has clearly delivered on his pledge to work with everyone. Our candidates for District Attorney and City Controller, DANNY ALVAREZ and TERRY TRACY respectively, lost, but put on a good show. Alvarez actually beat incumbent DA SETH WILLIAMS in the 170th Pennsylvania House of Representatives Dist. Is this a sign that a Republican could be competitive in this seat which former Republican Speaker of the Pennsylvania House JOHN PERZEL held for years? A Republican, ANNE MARIE COYLE, was elected to Common Pleas in part owing to great ballot position in the Democratic primary and to hard work.

COUNCILMAN DAVID OH proposed legislation that would amend the City Charter to allow sitting elected officials to retain their seats while running for other public offices.

Currently, elected officials need to resign their positions, as did MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER when he left his City (Cont. Page 14)

By the time you read this column, you’ll be writing 2014 on your checks … or at least you should be. I know it always takes me a few months to get that right.

But while the old year of 2013 is no longer with us, it’s still a columnist’s job to take a look at some of the fun and frolic that went on here in the City of Brotherly Love and Put the Damned Gun Down.

(The murder rate went down this year, by the way. Any year where folks are actually putting the damned gun down is a good year.)

In my opinion, any look at the City of Philadelphia in the year 2013 has to begin and end at the schoolhouse door. The School District of Philadelphia spent a lot of time in the news this year between the closing of 24 more city schools and Superintendent William Hite’s announcement that without a $50 million infusion of cash, schools wouldn’t be able to open this year.

City officials, or City Council and Mayor Michael Nutter, couldn’t agree initially on how to get the $50 million to the district. Mayor Nutter wanted to increase the cigarette tax. Council President Darrell Clarke wanted to sell unused school buildings.

Because no one on Council introduced Nutter’s tax-increase bill, Clarke won. (Is it just me, or did Mayor Nutter become a lame duck immediately after the vote was counted on Election Night 2011?)

Meanwhile, Gov. Tom Corbett told the district unless it got concessions of all kinds from teachers in contract negotiations, $47 million that the district needed wouldn’t be coming.

(Cont. Page 14)

Yo! Here we go again with some ideas about New Year’s Day. The whole range of celebration of the New Year’s Day stems from the various ways ancient societies used to greet the new harvest seasons. The origins of these customs took root in the ways ancient peoples regarded the New Year. Like other ancient societies around the world, New Year festivities had been observed in our wild forests and plains by the native Indians.

The customs of sporting disguises and masks, making noises and confessions were all practiced by the Iroquois Indian tribe.

The customs and practices, though modified through the centuries, have still their distinctive strains in the ways we welcome each onrushing year. It was the Dutch, in their New Amsterdam settlement at mid-17th century, who originated the modern American New Year celebration. New Year’s Day was the most important holiday for the Dutch, who were noted in all the colonies for their love of beer and wine. Here are some instances of New Year’s Day revelry with their historical trails.

The idea of making deafening noise is to drive away the evil spirits who flocked to the living at this climactic season with a great wailing of horns and shouts and beating of drums. This is why at the stroke of midnight we hear the deafening cacophony of sirens, car horns, boat whistles, party horns, church bells, drums, pots and pans – anything to produce a devil-chasing din.

The traditional Mummers’ Parade of Philadelphia owes its origin to the Christmas celebrations of the Swedes and the Englishmen who settled along the Delaware River. The masked revelers among the Swedes saw to it the festivities of the Christmas season lasted until the New Year. The English brought with them their ancient practice of “mumming”. In America, this took the form of groups of men presenting costumed plays, going from house to house in expectation of money or some of the Christmas fare.

New Year resolutions represent other efforts to make the year brand new. In fact, we often say that in the New Year we are “turning over a new leaf”.

(Cont. Page 14)

In this first column of the new year, I had hoped to note expectations and hopes for the city and state administrations to make a NEW COVENANT with the people and bridge the gap between 1% and 99%. Like DANTE, I have abandoned hope.

Officials taking on DUTY with DELIGHT may have to wait until a NEW BROOM sweeps clean. The strength of CITY COUNCIL is a beacon of hope. It might be time for a CHARTER CHANGE, of a stronger-Council, weaker-Mayor government (?)... The overturn of the CONVICTION of Msgr.

William J. Lynn by a higher court because the child-endangerment law should not have been used retroactively, is important.

Did not the FOUNDING FATHERS concern themselves over EX POST FACTO? Was the trial held in the heat of a moment when feelings ran high? After the national financial crises, many wanted greedy CEOs IN JAIL. The US ATTORNEY and others knew that there is no law against sloppy management. LYNN was a supervisor. He may be guilty of lethargic management.

The contract agreement between the Parking Authority and DISTRICT COUNCIL 33 is a beacon of light shining on Room 215 City Hall. Enlightened management at PPA and Pete MATTHEWS at 33 did it.... The Earth-shaking Letter to the Editor on AVI by Christopher ARTUR is spot on! AVI should have been delayed to build more accuracy.

A German company (Memsys Clearwater) has built a unit that cleans up water used for FRACKING. It is already in use in Texas. Brine is removed, and water quality is such that it (Cont. Page 14)

Well-respected lobbyist SEAN REILLY tied the knot recently with the lovely SUSAN PAUL. Reilley is a conservative Republican with many friends in Democratic circles.

Former powerful STATE SEN. VINCENT FUMO did not host his annual holiday party at the Green Street mansion. Apparently federal authorities prohibited this type of event. Fumo family members carried on the party while Vince was incarcerated in Ashland, Ky. But the amount of negative publicity received for a proposed welcome-home party when he was released was questionable.

Local 98 powerhouse JOHN DOUGHERTY hosted a post-Christmas holiday party at McFadden’s at Citizens Bank Park. Among the VIPs in attendance were City CONTROLLER ALAN BUTKOVITZ and COUNCILMAN BOB HENON. Numerous ward leaders were in attendance including MATT MYERS, SHAWN DILLON and PAT PARKINSON. JOHN McNESBY hosted a Christmas party at the new FOP lodge. McNesby is rumored to be considering a run for City Council against Republican incumbent BRIAN O’NEILL. Oddly, O’Neill has a constituent-service office at the FOP. For many years O’Neill was attacked by Democrats for having no local office. It would be uniquely awkward for his landlord to run against him. Nonetheless, McNesby is highly regarded and should he choose a career in elective office he would be formidable.

City Council hopeful SHERRIE COHEN has been making the rounds all over Philadelphia.

She finished in the top tier of unsuccessful candidates for Council at-large in the last election.

For her to be successful, a vacancy has to be created or one of the five Council at-Large incumbents must be the object of citywide cutting. The opening could be created if COUNCILMAN BILL GREEN is appointed chairman of the School Reform Commission. He himself puts his chances at only 50-50. Nonetheless, politics proves the early bird often gets the worm.

City Commission CHAIRMAN ANTHONY CLARK’S new Election Guide has already in its second printing. This Commissioner, a former North Philadelphia ward leader, is quiet by nature and prefers to operate from the backroom. But he has emerged as an innovative leader and the reforms undertaken in the City Commission after he assumed its chair show him to be a dynamic and influential player whose work has benefited the city.

123 S. Broad St. Ste. 2140 Philadelphia, PA 19109 michaelboylelaw.com

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The Public Record • January 2, 2014

LAW OFFICE OF

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of PHA’s mission and we are committed to preserving and maintaining affordable housing,” said PHA President and CEO, Kelvin Jeremiah. “But we’re not just about housing. We’re also furthering education, training and job placement, which is why I am thrilled to announce the launch of our online Section 3 Job Bank for residents. Section 3 is a powerful tool for ensuring that residents are participating and benefiting from PHA activities in their communities.”

2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134

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PHA Posts Job Bank The Philadelphia Housing Authority has launched an online job bank designed to connect public and assisted housing residents with job and training opportunities.

The positions are all with PHA contractors and vendors in a variety of different industries.

At launch time, PHA was actively recruiting for over 20 open Section 3 positions, ranging from laborers to clerical positions to information systems analysts.

“Housing is the cornerstone

moter and a host of other awards will be given all chosen by the public nominations. A special award is the “Smokin Joe Frazier Spirit Award” which will also be given that evening.

Tickets are just $30 and include dinner, ceremony, entertainment and plenty of Philly boxing celebrities in attendance.

For additional information, go to www.wilkesproductions.com.

Dave Wilkes of Wilkes Productions will be hosting his annual “Salute to Philly Boxers” in West Philly at Oshiver Hall (3901 Market Street) starting at 6 p.m.

Known in Philly boxing circles as “Uncle Dave”, the trainer-uncle of former world contender Tony “Dynamite” Green, Wilkes will be embarking on his 18th year of honoring people in the Philly boxing community.

Boxer of the year, manager,

0

sentative Mark Archuleta Wheatley; Parliamentarian, Senator Carmelo Ríos Santiago; Secretary, Assemblyman Jose Rivera; and Treasurer, Representative Juan Candelaria.

This newly elected leadership team will serve for two years. NHCSL Officers are charged with representing the organization’s member constituencies and serving as the voice of over 350 Hispanic state legislators across the country.

0

State Rep. Angel Cruz (DKensington) has been elected to serve as first vice president of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators for 2014-2015.

He is in line to become its president in 2016.

The new leadership chosen are: President, Senate President Eduardo Bhatia; First Vice President, Representative Angel Cruz; Vice President for Public Policy, Representative Catherine Miranda; Vice President for Membership, Repre-

Ringside With The Shadowboxer

Page 11

Hispanic Caucus Elects Philly Boxing Salute Rep. Cruz Vice President This Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014, trainer, cut man, referee, pro-

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Page 12

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The Public Record • January 2, 2014

UNION LABOR

Union Labor…Building it right

receive that Order of Discharge, you should call the number provided on the www.annualcreditreport.com site and order your credit reports. Consumers are entitled to a free credit report every year or when a negative decision is made by a creditor relying on a credit report.

There are three main reporting agencies: Equifax, Ex-

for a better and stronger community And promoting renaissance of North Broad St. Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Jr. Business Manager/Co-Chairman L.E.C.E.T. Co-Chairman Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Damian Lavelle Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper, Jr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: After your bankruptcy -- how to have a fresh start.

Answer: The Order of Discharge often isn’t the answer to getting a fresh start after bankruptcy. It is a first step, though.

About 60-90 days after you

by Tom Flynn and Rocco DeGregorio Question: I hate driving in the snow/winter. People can drive like such maniacs but there is no way to avoid having to

drive. Do you have any tips for driving in the winter?

Answer: Reader, We agree with you, driving in the winter can be scary.

One thing we see a lot of is

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.

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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

Attorneys are both board certified by the American Bankruptcy Certification Board.

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

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perian, and Transunion. If you are married and filed a joint bankruptcy, each of the spouses must request their own reports. There are many imposter websites that will claim to be “free”… don’t believe the hype. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com to get your report.

If you ever had a problem with a checking account or overdrafts, you should get additional credit reports from Telecheck, Early Warning Services, and Chexsystem.

(Cont. Next Page) people not fully scraping the snow off of their cars, which can make it dangerous for other drivers when that snow comes flying off of their roofs. Not only do you not want to hurt other motorists, but in Pennsylvania and New Jersey you can also get fines for not scraping off your car.

Another thing: Even though your car may be equipped with things such as Bluetooth and Sync, avoid using your phone and other devices, especially when driving in the snow, and keep your full attention on driving.

A good thing to always have in your car is an emergency kit. You can alter your kit slightly for the winter by adding things like ice scrapers, a small snow shovel and sand/salt. Make sure and keep extra blankets and hand warmers in the car too; you never know when you might need them.

I am sure you have heard this one before, but this is another one people overlook: Bridges freeze faster than roads, so take caution and drive slower on them, especially when it’s cold out.

Hope this helps and stay safe and warm this winter!

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.

(Cont. from Prev. Page) These are the agencies that banks and credit unions rely on when the bank or credit union is making a decision about whether you can open an account with them. These agencies are not part of the www.annualcreditreport.com site so you will need to go to each of the sites to request a report.

So, you are now up to six different reports. The formats of these reports are somewhat similar. First will be the public records section where any court case may be listed. Next, the report may list all the creditors. The report may separate out the debt collectors from original creditors.

If any of your creditors is still listing a balance, then the next step is for you to dispute the report of that creditor. The Federal Trade Commission offers a sample letter to consumers who need to dispute. I usually advise my clients to send a copy of the letter to the creditor who is reporting inaccurate information.

When a consumer disputes something on a credit report, the agency must investigate the dispute. The creditor can either verify the accuracy, update or remove the information. The

credit-reporting agency has deadlines for its response to go back to the consumer.

Next Week’s Question: Bankruptcy -- don’t get hometowned.

benefits in federal disability programs, has led many individuals who are not disabled to apply for benefits.”

Congressman Lankford is the chair of an oversight subcommittee that monitors the Social Security program. We will see if these changes lead to fewer approvals.

The Family Court of the State of Delaware, In and For New Castle.

Notice of Termination of Parental Rights Action.

To: Joel Goldberg, DOB: 7/16/1971 From: Confidential Clerk of Family Court Adoptions from the Heart, Petitioner, has brought a civil action (Petition number 13-34796) against you to terminate your parental rights of your minor male child, born: 8/7/2013.

A hearing has been scheduled at the Family Court, 500 N. King Street, Wilmington Delaware, on 1/29/2014 at 1:00 pm.

If you do not appear at the hearing, the Court may terminate your parental rights without your appearance.

If you wish to be represented by an attorney in this matter but cannot afford one, you my be entitled to have the court appoint an attorney to represent you for free. For more information, please contact the confidential clerk at family court, (302) 255-0244.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 130302605 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Reverse Mortgage Solutions, Inc., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Goldie Peacock, Deceased & Georgianna Shalinsky, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Goldie Peacock, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Goldie Peacock, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 3800 Ronnald Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19154. 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. 130302605, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 3800 Ronnald Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19154 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.

gress to question whether ALJs are too generous in approving claims.

An example: Congressman James Lankford (R.-Okla.) and others wrote to SSA recently stating the “economic recession and slow and weak recovery, combined with the perceived ease with gaining

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

nounced changes in what it terms “position description” for SSA administrative law

the interpretation of the law.”

I am not sure what to make of these changes. One interpretation is SSA is trying to ensure that ALJs issue more decisions in a timely manner.

Productivity (defined as the number of cases decided) varies greatly among ALJs. The OPM discussed the need for ALJs to “exercise effective docket management”, “efficiently schedule cases for hearing” and “issue timely and legally defensible decisions.”

Another plausible interpretation is the changes are designed to reign in ALJs who grant a high percentage of cases. These ALJs have generated a lot of press coverage and prompted some in Con-

Page 13

by Michael P. Boyle, Esq. The Office of Personnel Management recently an-

judges. ALJs take testimony and review medical evidence before ruling whether or not a claimant is disabled.

OPM stated ALJs maintain “the authority to hold hearings and make and issue decisions on appeals” consistent with the Administrative Procedures Act. However, the changes that were made subject ALJs to greater scrutiny and supervision by the hearing-office chief ALJs. OPM emphasized ALJs will continue to “exercise ... independent judgment of the evidence, free from pressure by the parties or agency officials.” At the same time, the OPM indicated that ALJs are “subordinate to the Commissioner in matters of policy and

The Public Record • January 2, 2014

Page 14

Out & About (Cont. From Page 10) Or at least that was his plan. Once 12-year-old Laporshia Massey died from an asthma attack, and folks connected that incident to cuts in school nurses, cuts initiated by Gov. Corbett’s cuts in state funding, he sent the money.

Granted, this fund release had as much to do with the Governor’s abysmal approval ratings at the time, but what the hey?

Meanwhile, School Reform Commission Chair Pedro Ramos announced he was stepping down. The rumor mill is churning out that Councilman Bill Green may be his replacement…. Well, if nothing else

Waffleman (Cont. From Page 10) It is traditionally thought the first day of the year is symptomatic of the approaching 364 days. The practice of visiting friends continued until the first years of this century. To neglect this annual visit was a terrible

guarantees Gov. Tom Corbett will lose Philadelphia in his 2014 reelection bid, this will.

But the School District wasn’t the only big story. In June, the collapse of a building at 22nd & Market killed six people. The building next to the Salvation Army thrift store there was being demolished, but because the crane operator, Sean Benschop, hit the building, it fell down and did a lot of damage.

Benschop, who illustrates why you shouldn’t operate heavy machinery while you’re high on weed, and demolition contractor Griffin Campbell were charged with manslaughter and conspiracy for being two of the dumbest contractors

ever, and the City is going to pass a whole lot of legislation governing building demolition that they probably should have a long time ago.

We also lost some very important people both locally and nationally in 2013. Some of them are obvious, like former South African President (and Liberty Medal winner) Nelson Mandela, former Congressman Bill Gray, Radio One executive and activist E. Steven Collins, and physician/businessman Dr. Walter Lomax.

Among the others we lost this year was former School District of Superintendent Arlene Ackerman.

Next week: Some things to look forward to in 2014.

sight, and the roads were thronged with carriages bearing the holiday-makers. Accordingly, people try to spend the first day of the New Year in the best possible way, in the company of family and friends.

It was once believed to be a good omen if a tall, dark-haired man visits your house on New Year’s Day; that would not be

me – my hair is long gone but not my spirit of the New Year.

Indeed, though all these customs constitute familiar New Year revelry, they are just part of the rites practiced by many peoples during the celebration of ancient New Years. Today we should just rejoice in being able to greet the New Year and hope it is better than the old one.

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Elephant (Cont. From Page 10) Council seat to run for Mayor.

Does Oh think this will help him? Does he honestly think he can successfully run for Mayor or DA? I think he needs to focus on proving his Republican creds. He won in the primary last time in large part owing to the party’s civil war, as insurgents supported him because he was not MIKE MEEHAN’S guy. But the insurgents for the most part were and remain politically conservative True Believers. Proposing this charter change, along with a lack of clear conservative views, is not going to help him in the next Republican primary.

On the state level, we have faced some challenges. GOV. TOM CORBETT’S approval ratings are beyond weak. This fascinates me, as he is one of the few politicians who made promises and consistently delivered.

He has crafted budgets and delivered them on time – something his predecessor did not do during eight years in office.

Corbett was vilified in the press in Philadelphia for not giving enough funds to Philadelphia schools. A $150million shortfall in the schoolsystem budget was blamed entirely on Harrisburg. Let’s get real. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania finances roughly 60% of the School District’s budget. How much more can we realistically expect the rest of the state to pay?

The problem here for us as Republicans is we do not understand how to get our message out. Corbett has been a good Governor, but he and his staff have demonstrated an inability to sell themselves.

On the national level, Pennsylvania has shone. We have a Republican Senator in PAT TOOMEY who has been outstanding as a freshman. He has drafted legislation with CHUCK SCHUMER (DN.Y.) that has made it easier for medium-sized businesses to access capital markets. His voting record has been clearly to the right of center, but we have had

rightwing groups burn him in effigy in Harrisburg. This was over a law that he proposed with JOE MANCHIN (D-W.V.) to require internet and gun-show sales to be subject to the same regulations that gun-store owners who invested in brick-andmortar shops must follow.

The lesson we Republicans must take into 2014 is we must get elected in order to govern.

Attacking solid Republicans like Toomey who are willing and able to reach across the aisle is not productive and could lead to our remaining the minority party in Washington. rector at Local 98 IBEW, never gets credit for his quiet work of distributing turkeys and toys to needy families and kids. MIKE and his aide Bob GORMLEY and team deserve the love and thanks of families when found at their door in that driving rainstorm!...

Don’t forget the hundreds of toys given by Local 830 Teamsters (Dan Grace) and Local 332 (Sam Staten, Jr.).

You read about Councilwoman JANNIE BLACKWELL in the last edition of the PUBLIC RECORD. Again, she fed thousands of the homeless. It was sad to me that when Council reorganized, she did not get a leadership position. But she is best as a FREE AGENT. She is a ONE-PERSON DEPT. OF HUMAN SERVICES and DIRECTOR OF COMMERCE equivalent!!

Walking (Cont. From Page 10) can be potable, or reused in fracking. SHALE MAGNATES – get it up to Pennsylvania!... PORT NEWS: A shipping CONTAINER has been developed that will report an open door and its location.

It will report its own hijacking, says Dr. Jim Giermanski of Powers International.

I learned in a Christmas Card that retired cop MIKE ROCHE passed away. Mike was the ultimate caring cop.

He was thorough and upright in his response to crime, and professional as a detective.

Perfect peace to him... BARBARA HANNAH passed on, a loving mom of Kevin in S. Philly. KEV, Barbara was your best friend in life.

Mike NEAL, Training Di-

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(Cont. From Page 8) welcome to Jeff and Johanna and look forward to taking on the challenge of growing our business together.”

Jubelirer is widely recognized as one of the top corporate-communications and public-relations strategists in Greater Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Perhaps best known for his expertise in issue- and crisismanagement and public-policy advocacy, Jeff is a “go-to” media and political analyst for local broadcast and newspaper outlets. In addition, Jeff is a regular commentator on 6abc’s venerable weekly public-affairs show “Inside Story.”

He is the chief architect behind the development and execution of strategic communications, media- and community-relations and crisis-management issues for his clients, who constitute many of the state’s most wellknown businesses, executives, associations and nonprofit organizations.

Kilbride, who will become an account executive at Bellevue, brings valuable public relations and social media development experience to her new post. At IMS, she worked on a variety of investor-relations initiatives including writing press releases, managing the content and design of investor presentations and fact sheets, and driving social media presence for the firm and its clients.

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