Pr 793 s

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. Vol. VIIVIII No.No. 3 (Issue 15 (Issue 328)392)

Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILA., PA 19114

215-698-7000 PhillyRecord.com

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Rocky’s Still Winning!

LUVENIA BLACK and Ellena Williams are all smiles as State Sen. Larry Farnese gives them all the time they needed to speak about senior housing. See More Pics, Page 21 Photo by Maria Merlino PACIFICO FORD Sales Executive Rocky DeGregorio and Pastor of St. Rita of Cascia Church & Shrine Father Joe Genito take a moment to pose for a picture together.

Photo by Maria Merlino

by Maria Merlino If you Google “Rocky DeGregorio Pacifico Ford,” www.dealerrater.com comes up first. The page has more than 200 five-star ratings for this salesman.

No negatives!

Buying a car can be hazardous to your mental health, but DeGregorio has a certain knack that puts people at ease, saves them money and instinctively knows what it takes to hook up the right auto to the right person.

“Pacifico is a great place,” he says. “All my customers are like family. I’ve (Cont. Page 2)

In case you’re wondering, we’re rerunning this section of Page 1 due to a technical error that occurred during last week’s issue.

Please enjoy the story.

Ribbon Cutting For Affordable Housing In Point Breeze P. 21

April January 9, 2015 16, 2014

Senior Expo Touches Hearts

by Maria Merlino At the top of the list of individuals that can benefit by the office of State Sen. Larry Farnese are the senior citizens.

At the Senior Expo 2015 that he hosted last week at South Philadelphia HS gymnasium, it was bittersweet for the Senator as he recently lost his father, Lawrence, and his Uncle Ben, who was a principal at the school, just days apart.

“Having the expo at this school is something I love to do,” he said. “To be able to make the lives of seniors easier is very fulfilling.”

South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897

Page 2

To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108

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

The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick

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

Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti

2nd Dist. Debates Views Rocky Digs Deep For Roots ALL SMILES before gloves came off are 2nd Dist. challenger Ori Feibush and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson with moderator Thera MartinMilling.

Event took place at Vare Recreation Center, 26th &Moore, Tuesday evening.

JUDICIAL candidate Tom Martin chats with Claudia Sherrod while waiting for councilmanic candidates to square off.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Board Members John Savarese Mark Rago

Animal Love

WOULD you believe possums and alley cats exist side by side?

Rowhomes in South Philly find daily handouts from area families.

Cont. From Page 1) sold to multiple generations.”

The phones have been ringing off the hook and sales are smashing.

“The place is packed! We’re selling cars. After the holiday, everything goes crazy,” he said.

He is a man of faith and his story is unique. A self-described “workaholic,” DeGregorio and two of his siblings were born in Austria. But he isn’t Austrian.

“I need to take you back to the beginning,” he said. “My father, Rocco Sr., was born at 7th & Carpenter Streets in the 1930s.”

After childbirth, his mother died and it affected his grandfather so greatly that he couldn’t cope with a newborn and he placed his baby son, Rocco Sr., in the St. Vincent DePaul Orphanage. The Brothers and the priests took care of him until he was 18 years old.

During that time, Rocco Sr. was visited by a little girl, Catherine (now 92), who would visit her older brother in the orphanage. Rocco Sr. was even asked to come back home, but he refused. At that point, he was happy where he was and didn’t want to leave.

When WWII started, Rocco Sr. was drafted and wound up in Austria where he met a family of Italians that had escaped Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler.

Formerly owners of a villa, they had lost everything – except for a beautiful daughter who caught his eye at a USO (United Service Organizations Inc. – a nonprofit organization that provides programs, services and live entertainment to United States troops) show. And they married.

Two girls and a boy later, the Army sent him to France. Another little girl was born afterward.

With all that traveling, DeGregorio picked up some foreign languages.

“As a child, I spoke German, Italian and French and my mother spoke five languages. But when the family moved to South Philadelphia, I was enrolled in Epiphany of Our Lord School and quickly learned English. Unfortunately, my other language skills were lost because other kids made fun of me,” he said.

After graduating Bishop Neumann, he

enlisted in the Marines.

“It was the Vietnam era. I was stationed at Camp Lejeune (in Jacksonville, N.C.) and expected to be deployed there.

But there was an Amphibious Tractor Battalion that had just returned and they were stuck there and I stayed down South until I was discharged,” he said.

He married Donna, had a daughter, Diana, who is now a chemical engineer in California and Lori, a La Salle graduate.

Both have given him and his wife grandchildren: Gianluca, 1, and Ava, 8 and little brother Logan, 6.

When his mother died six years ago, DeGregorio, who had urged her without avail to take a trip back to Austria, decided to go make the pilgrimage himself.

“When I got there, I walked the streets of my birth, five or six miles a day. I had a Google map that I used to find the cemetery where my mother’s family was buried. I hit a couple of dead ends but as faith would have it, I met European bicyclists that had been to Philly and spoke a little English. They helped me navigate to where I needed to go.

“When I finally found the grave site, I was shocked that there were no names.

That’s when I walked to the main house there. The caretaker told me that if money isn’t given to maintain the graves, then other people can be buried there.

You lose your spot,” he said.

And what happened to the bodies?

“The coffins are removed and the remaining bones are placed beneath the new caskets. This bothered me so much! I went back the next day and collected dirt and stones from around grave site. When I got home, I distributed the earth to my siblings. I kept some and visited my mom and dad’s grave. I scattered a line of the dirt all around their burial mount and said a prayer. This was in the winter.

“When I went back in the spring, I was amazed at what I saw. I beautiful blue flower was growing right where I placed the dirt. This was sign to me. I wanted to go back to my roots and it did happen. A small bit of life from the old days had rooted with my family,” he said.

The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($20 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 Assistant Editor: Cassie Hepler 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 Bill Myers 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. ©1999-2015 by the Philadelphia Public Record. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. The Philadelphia Public Record will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public.

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Page 4 The Public Record • April 9, 2015 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Stand Up For Transportation Infrastructure Today At Dilworth Park If you drive on roads and highways, commute to work on public transportation, make purchases at local stores or buy online and have items shipped to you, rely on emergency services vehicles to cross bridges and reach you or your loved ones quickly, you should be standing up for transportation today, Thursday, Apr. 9 – National Transportation Infrastructure Day. At 9 a.m. in Dilworth Park, former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell, Acting FTA Administrator Therese W. McMillan, US House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster, Cong. Chaka Fattah, Bob Brady, Mike Fitzpatrick and Pat Meehan, Acting PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards, SEPTA Board Chairman and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Member Pat Deon, Philadel-

phia Council AFL-CIO President Pat Eiding, Pat Gillespie of the Philadelphia Building & Trades Council and Ryan Boyer of the Laborers’ District Council will lead a large coalition of citizens, businesses, labor organizations, community groups and transportation advocates at the StandUp4Transportation Rally. There will also be a number of exhibits at Dilworth Park for attendees to interact with and learn more about local, state and national transportation needs.

The Stand Up For Transportation rally will be held in conjunction with similar events nationwide, with one central theme: Our transportation system is the backbone of our economy, and now is the time to invest in renewing critical transportation infrastructure in the Philadelphia region and across the country.

Transportation is the engine of American prosperity. Yet the condition of the nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems now jeopardizes the very prosperity and security that our once-vibrant transportation system has made possible.

Every American bears the burden of our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure, spending billions of additional hours in traffic and billions of dollars more for fuel, repair and operating expenses, and consumer goods as a result of the nation’s congested and deficient roads.

The current extension of the Highway Trust Fund, which supports the federal highway and transit programs, is set to expire on May 31, 2015.

Long-term, sustainable investment is needed to ensure the nation’s future global competitiveness.

(Cont. Next Page)

This shared responsibility is particularly relevant in Pennsylvania, following the passage of Act 89, which provides a long-term, dedicated source for capital improvements to transportation throughout the Commonwealth.

In order to maximize the transportation renewal that landmark legislation makes possible, there needs to be a strong federal transportation program to effectively leverage the investment the

General Assembly made in Pennsylvania’s future.

Members of the public are invited to join in during this morning’s rally at Dilworth Park – and stand up for infrastructure investment that maintains America’s efficiency, productivity and global competitiveness.

Also, you can look for the hashtag #StandUp4Transportation on social media to make your voice heard to federal officials.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

(Cont From Prev. Page) Nearly 300 Members of Congress, including the Members of Pennsylvania’s delegation, said it best in their recent letter to Speaker Boehner and Minority Leader Pelosi: “We know that our country needs robust transportation infrastructure to compete in the global economy and that without such a network, the United States will be less able to realize future economic growth.

Very simply, we support transportation and infrastructure investment because our economy needs a national system to safely move people and deliver goods from place to place.”

The federal government has an essential responsibility it shares with state and local governments to build and preserve the transportation infrastructure that ensures the nation’s prosperity, improves mobility and strengthens communities.

Page 5

Transportation Key To America’s Success

•

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Philadelphia Suburban Development Corporation URBAN DEVELOPMENT | TOWAMENCIN CENTER TOWAMENCIN SQUARE | PARKING DIVISION

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Page 6 The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Partisan Audience Almost Dominated 2nd Council Debate

by Joe Shaheeli Moderator Thera Martin Milling had her work cut out for her as she conducted Tuesday night’s debate between challenger Ori Feibush and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson as to who should get the votFRIENDS of Curtis Jones, Jr. hosted “Don’t Be Fooled: Meet the Candidates Night” at Calabash Restaurant, 6208 Lancaster Avenue on ers’ nod in the May 19 priApril Fools Day. It was no joke for these judicial candidates who included, from left, Jennifer Schultz, supervising attorney, Community mary.

Legal Services; Stella Ming Tsai, partner, Archer & Greiner, PC; Shanese Johnson of Shanese I. Johnson & Associates, PC; Jones; Rania Applause and cheers Major of Rania Major, PC, Christian DiCicco of Legal Offices of Christian A. DiCicco; and Matthew Perks, Assistant District Attorney. drowned most of the efforts of both candidates to make their views heard to questions that had been prepared by debate sponsors South Philadelphia HOMES and Point Breeze Network.

Those answers that made it through the noisy enthusiasm of supporters of both sides did show a marked difference between the challenger and the incumbent. Both share views on education, assessment increases, school education, and taxes generally.

Kenyatta believes he has a hands-on approach for every

section of the district which is truly diverse in its makeup.

Ori has a platform which he believes will attract businesses and other job makers to the 2nd Councilmanic District.

Both split apart on how to bring more housing to pockets of the district where they are sorely needed.

Kenyatta sees the need for increasing opportunities for subsidized and low income housing. Ori said he would campaign for subsidized and market rate housing.

The impressions of those critiquing the debate were quite similar. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson was sharpening his platform on more housing for those in need, while bringing safety to residents in the district through his anti-gun initiatives.

It was obvious to this writer, both were on their top game. Planned forums will not be boring.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Friends of Curtis Jones Jr.

ALL SMILES before gloves came off are 2nd District challenger Ori Feibush and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson with moderator Thera Martin-Milling. Event took place at Vare Recreation Center, 26th and Moore Tuesday evening.

JUDICIAL candidate Tom Martin chats with Claudia Sherrod while waiting for councilman candidates to square off.

Page 7

Our Opinion TV Mayoral Forums

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Mayoral Forums are turning into a gauntlet for those aspiring to that office in the Democratic May 19 primary.

The strain on the candidates claimed a victim the other night when former DA, Judge Lynne Abraham, collapsed during the forum in a studio where the heat generated by lights proved too much for the feisty lady, who had not eaten anything during the day.

A check with her spokeswoman, Eleanor Dezzi, stated, contrary to the hopes of the other candidates for Mayor, the campaign hasn’t lost momentum. Dezzi also indicated donations to her campaign continue to pour in.

To underline that statement, Abraham was working Center City yesterday at the height of the day, signing autographs and handing out literature.

Those watching the forums are only able to measure candidates by how they present themselves at each event. So far, none of them understand they need to eye the red light on the studio cameras. Pitching to the studio audience means little.

It’s how you look to the viewer. Yet they continue to address each other.

The moderators in most of those forums, televised or not, seem ill prepared for the kind of questioning needed to force the candidates to declare their positions so they leave an impression with the voter. Basically lost is the ability of a viewer to make a clear-cut decision as to which of the six will get their vole.

Nevertheless, scratching our head for another way to communicate to all voters leaves us with only one suggestion.

That would be for those television stations scheduling or have shown forums to finally come up, near the end of this campaign, the “last” forum, to be shown jointly on each station at the same time. It’s tantamount to driving an audience to join in the election process since channels 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 17 and 219 and the foreign-language channels, if possible, do have their own audience.

Another Opinion Stephanie Singer – Under A Cloud

Come To Your Ward Meetings

Singer began chanting cheerleader cheers, waving her hands and kicking her feet, right there, outside the polling place. It was by far the mostbizarre demonstration I have ever seen on an election day in Philadelphia.

Stephanie Singer has been written up regularly in these pages. As early as July 2011, we catalogued her inability to file a campaign-finance report that was not riddled with problems. In one case, she appears to have filed two reports for the same period with different information. Her campaign did not always submit all the required information for her

reports, and got in trouble with the Philadelphia Board of Ethics for campaign-finance issues. Not a great start for someone running for office as a reformer.

Singer’s troubles did not end with campaign finance.

Originally installed as Chair of the Commissioners’ office, Singer supposedly interfered with the hiring of patronage employees in the offices of her counterparts, Commissioners Al Schmidt and Anthony Clark. In November 2012, after issues at city polling places, a normally reserved Bob Brady criticized Singer in the press. That same month,

Commissioners Schmidt and Clark voted to remove her as Chair of the commission, installing Clark as Chair and Schmidt as Vice-Chair.

Singer did her best to make trouble after her removal. She feuded with Schmidt and Clark over videotaping meetings, and published the telephone number of Schmidt aide Don Garecht when she felt the Commissioners’ Office overstepped its bounds. She also criticized Commissioner Schmidt’s office for releasing a report on voter fraud.

Not content to follow city regulations, Singer was fined (Cont. Page 27)

nokugel@gmail.com.

Apr. 9- C o u n c i l w o m a n Cindy Bass hosts Expungement Informational Clinic at Triumph Baptist Ch., Germantown & Hunting Park Aves.

6-8 p.m. For info (215) 6859182.

Apr. 9- Phila. Ass’n of Black Journalists, Community Coll. of Phila. and Faculty & Staff Federation present Moving Philadelphia Forward Mayoral

Candidates’ Forum at CCP Bonnell Audit., N. 17th St., 67:30 p.m.

Apr. 10- CCP Pres. Dr. Donald Guy Generals and CCP Foundation Pres. Arlene Yocum host Pathways Magazine Breakfast featuring Fire Commissioner Derrick Sawyer, Ctr. for Business & Industry, Rm. C2-5, 8 a.m. www.ccp.edu/pathwaysRSVP. Apr.10- State Sen. Shirley

Kitchen and Temple U. Human Resources present Career Training Fair at Penrose Rec Ctr., 1101 W. Susquehanna Ave., 9 a.m.-12 m. For info Mark Shade (717) 787-9220.

Apr. 10/11State Rep. Vanessa Brown hosts Prom Safety Event and Suit & Gown Giveaway at Greater Bible Way Temple, 1461 N. 52nd St., 3-7 p.m. Friday, 4-7 p.m.

(Cont. Page 20)

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

by David Lynn I met Dr. Stephanie Singer only once. We were both pollwatching in back of Holy Trinity Church at 19th & Walnut Streets (May 2009, I believe.)

We introduced ourselves, and she went on to tell me all about graduating from Yale and writing a book Voters who are looking for a better feel of the host of can- (as an Ivy League graduate, I didates than they can get from these sweaty, stylized TV per- am not so impressed with a formances will find their local ward meetings much more Yale degree.)

As I became less and less informative.

These are generally held in convenient, informal settings. interested in the recital of her The other attendees are apt to be neighbors, often well-in- resume, I said less and less to formed ones, who may be familiar to newcomers. There are her (she did not ask about me much at all. I suppose I am not usually refreshments. very interesting.).

The crowds are small and the rooms easy to move around And then it happened – in. As a rule you will enjoy opportunities to walk up to individual candidates, even mayoral candidates, and engage with them on an individual basis.

And there is certainly no better way to gain an acquaintance of some of the many judicial aspirants. It is a voter’s duty to make a selection among a host of the candidates for 125 vacancies in city courts. Judges do matter. Your estimation of a Apr. 9- Noam Kugelmass hosts candidate’s personal history, temperament and experience does Happy Hour Fundraiser for Jim matter.

Kenney at Mugshots Café, 5-6 If a citywide candidate must make a choice between a forum p.m. Supporters $500, Guests and a ward meeting, we recommend attending the ward meet- $250, Friends $100, Neighbors $50.

RSVP Rich ing will more good both for the voters and for themselves.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Page 8

Fixing An Eyesore CBTU Checks Out Candidates

COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson announces at press conference Wednesday that CSX Transportation, owner of 25th Street Viaduct in S. Phila., will begin a multi-year improvement project to restore the condition and appearance of the 1.2-mile-long bridge, which connects Port of Phila. and other Phila. freight customers to the national freight rail network. CITY COMMISSION hopeful Omar Sabir, a Laborers’ vet- JOFFIE PITTMAN and Christine Hope, who drew ballot poeran, joined Sam Staten, Jr. at Coalition of Black Trade sitions #2 and #4 for Municipal Court, were among those See next week’s editions for a full story.

Unionists candidates’ evening. seeking CBTU backing.

Egg Hunting With Vanessa

CELEBRATING lucky egg haul for a young constituent at Smith Playground is State Rep. Vanessa Brown, who organized mammoth Easter party last Saturday there.

Marking Flag Day At City Hall

JUDICIAL candidate Marissa Brumbach was proud to share LABORERS’ Local 332 Business Mgr. Sam Staten, Jr. gave moment with DC 47 President Fred Wright at CBTU event. cordial welcome to City Commission aspirant Lisa Deeley.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Phenomenal Women Campaign

JUDGE Abbe Fletman, Councilwoman Maria Quiñones HELPING Mark Phila. Flag FAMOUS actor’s father, Sánchez, Rev. Bonnie Camarda and Rachel Rojas came to- SHERRIE COHEN, candidate for Council at Large, worked Day in City Hall ceremonies Will Smith, Sr., receives Flag gether for Phenomenal Women’s event at Isla Verde in cele- Latino voters with Luz Selenia Loeb at Phenomenal were Council Members Ed Day proclamation from bration of Women’s History Month.

Women’s Committee awards event at Isla Verde.

Neilson, David Oh and Mark Mayor Michael Nutter.

Photo by Leona Dixon Squilla. Photo by Leona Dixon

Clarification In the Apr. 2 issue, we reported that Helen Gym had been endorsed for City Council at Large by a Teamster affiliated union, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division.

BMWED is not a member of Teamster Joint Council 53, which represents the great majority of Teamsters in Southeastern Pennsylvania, and BMWED is not a member of the Pennsylvania Conference of Teamsters.

18th Annual Men’s Event

OVER 300 men attended 18th Annual Wellness Breakfast For Men sponsored in part by Gateway Health, Keystone First, and United Healthcare. In event photo standing are Joseph J. Cammarata, DC (chiropractor), Rahim Islam (CEO/president of Universal Cos.), Faatimah Gamble (co-founder of Universal Cos., founder of The Wellness of You), State Rep. Dwight Evans and, seated, Michael Titayevski, ND, CCT (certified colon hydrotherapist), Frederick Burton, MD (medical director of Burton Wellness & Injury Center), and Kenneth Gamble (founder/chairman Photo by Martin Regusters, Leaping Lion Photography of Universal Cos.).

Endorses CP And MC Candidates Fletman, Chris McCabe and Judge Ken Powell.

For Municipal Court: Sharon Williams-Losier, Joffie C. Pittman, and Christine Hope.

The Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO is comprised of over 100 individual unions, representing 130,000 working people in Philadelphia. In order to be endorsed, candidates needed to receive at least

two-thirds support on the executive board.

Rendell For Jenkins In Commissioner’s Race Gov. Ed Rendell has picked several candidates running in the primary. His latest endorsement has gone to Democratic Ward Leader Carol Jenkins who is running for a seat on City Commission.

Youngblood Reaches Out

Higher Court Candidates Drawing Big Dollars

STATE REP. Rosita Youngblood hosted ShopRite customers at 3400 Fox Street at community-outreach session. With her, from left, were Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, Judge Stephanie Sawyer, Youngblood, Omar Sabir, Chris Photo by Bill Myers McCabe and Jennifer Schultz.

As expected, thanks to Brother John, Judge Kevin Dougherty leads in amassing campaign funds to fuel his Supreme Court race.

His campaign team reported from Jan. 2 to Mar. 30, raising $707,931. Superior Court Judge David Wecht not only drew first ballot position, but amassed $576, 513.

It is possible that at least three to four SC candidates will near or pass the milliondollar mark before the primary.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

At a meeting of the Philadelphia Council AFLCIO’s executive board Tuesday morning endorsements were made for Common Pleas and Municipal Courts.

For Common Pleas: Judge Michael Fanning, Lyris Younge, Daine Grey Jr. , Stephanie Sawyer, Scott DiClaudio, Mia Roberts-Perez, Chris Mallios, Kai Scott, Thomas Martin, Judge Abbe

Page 9

Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO

More Courts For Veterans, Mental Cases

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Pennsylvania now has more than 100 problem-solving courts across the Commonwealth – and counting.

During the first few days of January, Cambria and Northampton Counties each launched a mental-health court and Erie County began a veteran’s court.

The three joined 98 existing problem-solving courts across the Commonwealth. Other counties have programs in the discussion or planning stages.

Studies show problem-solving courts are less costly than jailing offenders and do not compromise public safety. The programs also offer treatment and enhance coping skills for participants. Program graduates also have been shown to be less likely to repeat their crimes.

Page 10 The Public Record • April 9, 2015 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

GOV. TOM WOLF has said he did not believe ATTORNEY GENERAL KATHLEEN KANE should resign.

Specifically he stated, “We have procedures in place for adjudicating the rights and wrongs.” Technically he is right.

However, doubts about Kane’s ability to do her job are not limited the Montgomery County grand-jury indictment. In the past two years she has engaged in a daunting series of missteps and misdeeds.

Her first missteps started before she took office. In the 2012 election, she promised to review the Sandusky prosecution suggesting that then-ATTORNEY GENERAL TOM CORBETT mishandled the case. She also ran ads with the slogan, “Send a prosecutor to Harrisburg, not a politician”; suggesting her opponent, seasoned and highly respected prosecutor DAVID FREED, was really a politician in sheep’s clothing. Well, both were untrue. After an extensive review by a special investigator of the Sandusky case, she was pained to admit Corbett’s prosecutors did their jobs. We now know who the political animal was in that race. Sadly, not only is she a politician, she is not a good one.

Things really started going downhill for her when she fell afoul of the mainstream media (which is really hard for a Democratic female to do). It was revealed that she decided not to prosecute Philadelphia Democratic politicians because she thought the investigation was racially biased. The sting investigation, conducted by now-Philadelphia prosecutor and then-ASSISTANT AG FRANK FINA, had a number of state legislators and a Traffic Court judge on tape accepting illegal (Cont. Page 22)

Should Black voters support Black candidates?

Now that I’ve written that sentence, I look at it and it seems like a question with an obvious answer for someone like me, seeing as I’m a Black woman and all.

But it’s a question that woke me up bright and early on Tuesday morning as I listened to “Wake Up With WURD with Solomon Jones”.

You see, a group of Black politicians from the Northwest section of the city, folks with big names like State Reps. Dwight Evans and Cherelle Parker, and City Councilwomen Cindy Bass and Marian Tasco, decided on Monday to endorse former City Councilman Jim Kenney for Mayor.

As for Councilwoman Tasco, I had a vibe that this was something she might do. When Kenney resigned from Council to run for Mayor, her goodbye speech to him was one of the most heartfelt. I told a couple of reporter friends not to be surprised if Tasco threw her support, and by extension the support of the 50th Ward, behind her former colleague.

But that said, I had started to hear grumblings about this particular endorsement on Sunday as friends of mine posted a video from 6ABC’s “Inside Edition” to their Facebook pages that featured prominent politico George Burrell chastising the folks in the Northwest for making this endorsement.

“I’m sure people like Bill Gray and David Richardson who helped get these Black elected officials a seat at the table are turning over in their graves because they’re voluntarily giving up their seat at that table,” he said.

I also made it a point to ask State Sen. Anthony Williams, (Cont. Page 23)

Yo! Here we go again with this interesting item about the Amish.

While traveling near Lancaster, Pa., Audrey, our driver stopped for gas. As she finished, an Amish carriage pulled up to the next pump. An Amish gentleman got out of the carriage and began to tie up the horse to the safety pole. In a friendly tone of voice, Audrey asked how much it takes to fill up the horse. He replied – about 15 gallons.

Funny, yeah, but it set me to thinking: What is an Amish man going to do with gasoline?

Surely, the Amish as a group shun modern conveniences and technology, living as they did 100 years ago?

Not true. As many writers have noted, the Amish are “selective” in what they accept. They do not blindly accept the old ways. Rather, they scrutinize “the way they always did it”.

For example, the carriage, or buggy as we non-Amish call it, may not have changed a great deal in design, but now the body of the carriage is mostly made of fiberglass rather than wood.

The Amish use fairly modern farm equipment, as long as horses pull it. Tractors were not accepted for fieldwork, just for stationary power, such as operating the fodder cutter. But hay balers and other gasoline-powered equipment can be pulled through the fields by horses.

Likewise, while the Amish can ride in cars and buses, they cannot own them. Appliances at home are operated by various means. Gas engines power old wringer washing machines. Modern stoves and refrigerators use propane gas, hence the large bottled-gas tanks outside most Amish homes.

Smaller propane-gas containers are used for the Coleman lamps. You’ll see some pretty nice barbecue grills, too. Propane gas also provides hot water for the kitchen and bathroom.

Almost any electrical appliance can be adapted to work off of alternate power, such as compressed air. Some Amish women have been using compressed air to power blenders in the kitchen for years. In one house, compressed air powers a water pump, sewing and washing machines, and drills and saws in the shop.

In one Amish grocery store, four car batteries power the electronic scale and digital cash reg(Cont. Page 27)

The MAYOR called for a 10% real-estate tax increase.

CITY COUNCIL won’t agree to it. Now the City wants to REASSESS your home or business under the dreaded AVI! There are TWO WAYS that your REAL-ESTATE tax can increase: City Council raises the Tax Rate, or the Mayor’s administration reassesses YOU. The introduction of AVI was cleverly done by applying it MOSTLY to the 1st Council Dist. of Councilman Mark SQUILLA, where 24,000 appeals went before the Board of Revision of Taxes (it is not yet finished hearing them). Without a reassessment, the City pretty much knows NOW what the market values are. This is about money, they say for our schools. But the City should not be allowed to TAX-CRUCIFY citizens upon the bottomless coffers of gold.

DID YOU SEE that news story which praises Philadelphia’s continued population growth? It included a graph which seems to indicate that growth has slowed. Philly was a top spot for young professionals to buy a home. Sure, our taxes are weird, but the reasonable real-estate tax, lower sale price, and abatements, as opposed to the rest of the New York-Washington megalopolis, made Philly attractive. Now, it appears AVI may be seen as slowing growth.... I would like to welcome Evaline BONNER into the world.

Born over the Easter holiday to Whitney and Sheamus BONNER, this lively lass was treated to Goose Eggs, an old Irish tradition, by Grandmom BONNER. Sheamus is a caring Veterans Service Rep for the American Legion. And a happy (Cont. Page 23)

Although the Phillies opener was expected to be underwhelming for a fan base accustomed to division championships, a number of notables did show up for the home opener. Famous trial lawyers TOM KLEIN and SHANIN SPECTER took their usual seats behind home plate. They were joined by political consultant LARRY CEISLER. Joining our military men and women on the field to unfold the massive American flag was LT. GOV. MIKE STACK, a.k.a. Capt. Mike Stack of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard 28th infantry division. He was joined by two-star GEN. WALTER LORD who served in the Pennsylvania National Guard.

STATE SEN. LARRY FARNESE joined former Philly great pitcher TOMMY GREENE in the Phillies alumni box. Greene looked like he could still play. Farnese actually played college baseball at Villanova.

A recent poll conducted by mayoral hopeful JIM KENNEY found Kenney ahead of STATE SEN. ANTHONY WILLIAMS by one point. LYNNE ABRAHAM conducted her own poll which indicated her leading the pack by double digits. It is only a matter of time before Williams conducts his poll, which will undoubtedly have him leading.

It is only a matter of time before Democrats start publicly asking for the resignation of KATHLEEN KANE. It appears that her indictment will hold and the only question is whether or not she will be formally charged. But some Democrats believe it would still be inappropriate to bury the former superstar of Pennsylvania politics. She is still a tough and attractive individual, even though the last two years of her term has been nothing short of disaster. She has been abandoned by her top staffers. But anyone looking for loyalty in politics should get a dog.

Montgomery County COMMISSIONER JOSH SHAPIRO is thought to be interested in a run for Attorney General. If he decides to join the race, you may see his supporters or proxies start calling for Kane’s resignation. Given his strong connection to GOV. TOM WOLF, Shapiro is on many insiders short list to replace Kane. But it is unlikely Senate Republicans would confirm someone that wants to run for a full term, especially when one of their own members, STATE SEN. JOHN RAFFERTY, has already indicated his intent to run for Attorney General.

(Cont. Page 22)

Alumni Award of Service from Temple Law and has been on its board for about 11 years. Her undergraduate was a bachelor’s in business management with a minor in political science from West Chester.

“I’m in court every day, maybe off once a month. I’m very comfortable in courtroom,” she said.

After graduation, nature and the economy took its course and the law firm she used to work for laid everyone off, which prompted her to start – and thrive in her own practice.

“I think (being a judge) is something I’d be good at,”

she said. “I’ll be 20 years from graduating law school in May, have done thousands of family law cases, lots of pro bono work for Philly VIP – I do a lot of volunteer cases for them and was even Attorney of the Month one month. I’m always getting awards.”

Johnson has plenty of reasons to keep making notches on her belt as she was made the 1st Judicial Dist. pro bono honor roll.

“I represented a lot of firms that have union contracts which gave me a lot of experience in a short amount of time – including the Fraternal Order of Police, Food Service Workers Local 56,

Toppin: Court Race Gives Voters Choice

SHERMAN TOPPIN ...give choices otherwise available.”

He admits his full intent is to win.

“I’m proud to be involved in this political process. I have the support of scores of volunteers, and together we can make a difference,” said Toppin.

His campaign manager, Randy Robinson, said, “Toppin is ahead of many of the judicial candidates in the kind of support he is receiving. We’ll make those available at the end of petition signing on March 10.”

An expert on real-estate law, now an adjunct professor teaching at Temple, Toppin understands cases involving litigation in that field will probably be steered by Court administration to his bench. He is a former president of the Barristers Association of Philadelphia, whose members are predominantly African American attorneys.

Now a resident of Mt. Airy, he is active in that community and is a busy member of Enon Tabernacle Church and Mt. Airy USA. With so many openings in the courts (15), he believes, candidates with an understanding of the full responsibility of the judiciary should get the support of the voters. He understands it is a difficult task for voters to vet them all..

“But, I’m committed to telling voters why this is not just another election to plug in some names in court vacancies,” he said.

He can be reached at his campaign office, 1800 JFK Boulevard, Suite 300. His phone number is (215) 5643600.

Candidate for Judge Shanese Johnson …keeping it real on him. He’s looking forward to seeing the new courthouse because he wants to bang the gavel,” she said.

Johnson aims for the Court of Common Pleas for now. If successful, she will go higher or perhaps get appointed to federal court.

“I would change the court efficiency system. For in-

SHANE Johnson, Shanese Johnson’s son, happily bangs the gavel at 34 S. 11th Street, Courtroom 7, sitting on bench of Hon. Joel S. Johnson … a future judge maybe?

stance, starting on time … there are days where people are sitting for hours with kids waiting to be heard,” she notes tartly.

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Judicial & Citywide Candidates

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www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

Sherman Toppin, 44, a Philadelphia import from Washington, D.C., was drawn to this city in 2002 by the fact his wife was the daughter of Milton Street. She wanted him to support the election of John Mayor Street and to “live in what she felt would be an exciting time.”

So, he said, he closed his Richmond, Va. law practice, took and passed the Pennsylvania and New Jersey bar and rented a townhouse on Diamond Street for his family from in-law John.

He’s now running as a judge in the Court of Common Pleas, presently among 50-plus potential nominees for the 12 seats that are now vacant. Many were expected to drop out after ballot picking.

“Regardless of my position on the ballot, I intend to finish the race,” he said. He pulled number 17 on the ballot.

Winning is his ultimate goal, but, he says, “Winning or losing isn’t the end result I seek. I want people to know the attempt is important and that I will grow in running this campaign with an understanding not

1199C and Laborers 332 Local and DC 33 too. Thousands of cases, lots of experience,” she said.

Johnson’s mother was a retired program analyst for the city workers’ DC47. Her father is a retired city employee, a former cop who also worked with the Dept. of Public Welfare.

“Everybody has been in the union except for me,” she said. “All my cousins are too.

My uncle used to be a Councilman (late Councilman Thomas McIntosh) … everyone has worked for the city.

My grandfather was one of the first Black firefighters in the city. This is definitely my city.”

Her 8-year-old son Shane is a public-school student and Johnson is donating her second year of service to the Home School Association in his school.

“He loved to come to court with me. He has not had an inservice day yet this year, though,” she said. “He loves the gavel and we put the robe

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

by Cassie Hepler “Being a lawyer, I can help 3-4 families a day. As a judge, I can help 30 or more families a day and help them in meaningful way,” said Shanese Johnson, 44, from Mt. Airy.

Johnson has owned her own practice for last 10 years, serving the City of Philadelphia in family law, which includes divorce, custody, child support, adoption, juveniles, protection from abuse and more.

In 2010, she was the chair of the Philadelphia Bar Association. She has spent her whole life in Philly. She went to Girls HS. In 2011, she won the

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Johnson Following Family Footsteps To Bench

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Reserve Your Campaign Ad To Run From Now Till Election Day in Our Newspaper Reach over 50,000 voters including over 8,000 Democrat & Republican Committeemen who receive this paper by mail weekly. It is the best way to strech your budget.

Give John David, our advertising director, a call 215-755-2000.

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Judicial & Citywide Candidates

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The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

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Kai Scott Supporters Rally COMMON PLEAS candidate Kai Scott enjoyed host of supporters at fundraiser – among them Jacqueline Marshall, president of DC 47 Local 2187; Donnell Martin, VP/business agent of Local 2186; Vanessa Fields, VP of DC 47; Scott; Candido Silva, Jr.; Oshunbumi Fernandez, I Am BUMI Foundation; and Campaign Mgr. Steven Bayne.

Fighting Hate Ads INTERFAITH religious representatives joined at press conference at Masjidullah, 7433 Limekiln Pike, to protest hate ads on SEPTA buses. In photo are Imam Muhammad Abdul-Aleem; Iftekhar Hussain, chairperson of CAIR; Omar Woodward, policy director of Anthony Hardy Williams for Mayor campaign; Rabbi Nancy Kreimer; State Rep. Dwight Evans; Kamillah Rashid; and Minister Rodney Muhammad.

Photo by Leona Dixon

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The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

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(Cont. From Page 7) Sunday. For info (215) 8706615.

Apr. 11- United Voices for Phila. sponsors Mayoral Forum at German Soc. Aud., 611 Spring Garden St., 3-5:30 p.m. For info Andy Toy (267) 978-7355.

Apr. 11- Justice For Joe Doc hosts Fundraiser at Cranky Joe’s Tavern, 3501 Indian Queen La., 3 p.m. Beef & Beer, Chinese Auction, 50/50.

Tickets $40.

Apr. 11- State Rep. Mark Cohen hosts Autism Expo at St. William Parish Hall, 6238 Rising Sun Ave., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

For info (215) 342-2167.

Apr. 11- Fundraiser for council candidate Manny Morales at Casa del Marisco, 4301 N. 5th St., 7-10 p.m. Friends $25, Candidates $50. For info Noelia (267) 591-8377.

Apr. 12- Universal Muslim Ass’n & Ctr. For Human Excellence host Chat & Chew Political Candidates Forum at 7401 Limekiln Pk., Breakfast 9 a.m., Forum 10 a.m.-12 m.

For info (267) 713-8663.

Apr. 12- City Commissioner candidate Lisa Deeley hosts Fundraiser at Original Fluke’s Irish Pub, 7401 State Rd., 1-5 p.m. Donations $30.

Apr. 12- Meet & Greet with Jim Kenney & Carol Jenkins Team is hosted at Paradiso Restaurant, 1627 E. Passyunk Ave., 3:30-5 p.m.

Apr. 12- Council candidate Helen Gym is hosted Reception

at 7165 Lounge, 7165 Germantown Ave., 4-6 p.m. RSVP helengym.com/7165lounge.

Apr. 13- 65th Ward Democratic Committee holds Meeting at Ashburner Inn, 8400 Torresdale Ave., 6:30 p.m. For info John Donohoe (267) 334-3775.

Apr. 14- Hardy Williams Education Fund presents Scholarship Reception at Tendenza, 969 N. 2nd St., Reception 5:30 p.m., Program 6:30-8 p.m.

Dean $15,000, Patron $10,000, Mentor $5,000, Candidate $2,500, Full-Page $1,000, Half-Page $500, Tickets $150.

For info (215) 843-2027.

Apr. 14- Councilman Bobby Henon hosts N.E. 2020 Health Forum at Pollock ES, 2875 Welsh Rd., 6-8 p.m.

Apr. 14- S. Phila. Business Ass’n hosts mayoral Candidates Night at Popi’s Restaurant, 6:30 p.m. $40 for dinner.

Apr. 14- 49th & 61st Ward Democrats host Candidates Night at Oak Lane Presbyterian Ch., 11th St. & Oak La., Municipal Office 7-8 p.m., Judicial Candidates 8-9 p.m. Refreshments.

Apr. 15- Meet & Greet Fundraiser for Council candidate Sherrie Cohen is hosted by Berner Klaw & Watson LLP at 1528 Walnut St., Su. 1100, 5:30 p.m. Contribution levels $50, $100, $200 or whatever.

Checks payable to “Cohen for Council”.

Apr. 15- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell & Bernadette Wyche host 24th & 46th Ward Mtg. at The Enterprise Ctr., 4548 Market St., 6 p.m.

Apr. 15- S. Phila HOMES & Pt. Breeze Partnership/Network host Mayoral Forum at 1444 Pt. Breeze Ave. For info Claudia Sherrod (215) 334-4430.

Apr. 16- Public Health Management Corp. hosts Mayoral Public Health Forum, 3-5 p.m.

Reception to follow. Centre Square, 1500 Market St. RSVP

by Apr. 10. Contact Veronica Mikitka Reed at vmikitka@mavenagency.com.

Apr. 16- Kenny Gamble, Victor Keen & Joe Kluger host Fundraiser for Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown at Bethany Mission Gallery, 237 S. 18th St., 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Light fare, beverages & music.

Sierra Sponsors $1,000, Valencia Sponsors $500, Amaro Sponsors $250, General Admission $50. For info Lindsey (267) 275-2120 or lperryconsulting@gmail.com.

Apr. 16- Phila. Council AFLCIO hosts COPE-PAC Fundraiser at P&P Caterers, Southampton Rm., 2980 Southampton Rd., 6-9 p.m.

RSVP Jonie (215) 665-9800.

Apr. 16- State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown hosts Know Your Rights Forum at Global Leadership Academy, 4601 W. Girard Ave., 6-8 p.m. Learn rights and responsibilities when interacting with police. Local legal and law-enforcement officials discuss use of force.

Apr. 16- Meet candidates at Baker’s Bay, 5100 Convent La., State Rd. below Grant Ave., 8 p.m. For details call Dr. Ruth Horwitz (215) 913-1991.

Apr. 17- 47th Ward Democratic Committee hosts Dinner, Dance & Evening with Candidates & Elected Officials at Pub Web Bar & Restaurant, 1527 Cecil B. Moore Ave., 5:30 p.m. Tickets $35, Candidates $50. For info George Brooks (215) 235-2235 or (267) 9715703.

Apr. 17- Happy Hour for Sheriff Jewell Williams at Morton’s The Steakhouse, 1411 Walnut St. Tickets $100. RSVP by Apr. 13 to info@SheriffJewellWilliams.com or (267) 7020450.

PACs, sole proprietorships and partnerships limited to $11,500.

Checks payable to “Citizens for Jewell Williams”, P.O. Box 22341, Phila., PA 19110. For info (267) 702-0450.

Apr. 18- State Rep. James R. Roebuck offers free document shredding at 4712 Baltimore Ave., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., to protect against identity theft.

Apr. 18- Isabella Fitzgerald hosts 10th Ward Spring Fling at Platinum Grill, 7719 Crittenden St., 2-5 p.m. For info (215) 429-8051.

Apr. 18- Donald “Ducky” Birts’ Medallion Scholarship Banquet at 1st Dist. Plaza, 3801 Market St., 6-10 p.m. For info David D. Birts (215) 605-7102.

Apr. 18- Jazz Fundraiser supports judicial candidate Sherman Toppin at Luther Rogers Ctr., 4809 Germantown Ave., Opening 7 p.m., Showtime 7:45 p.m. Tickets $50.

Apr. 18- Millennial Leadership hosts fundraiser for Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown at 7165 Lounge, 7165 Germantown Ave. Donation $25.

Apr. 22- Lisa Deeley, endorsed Democratic and AFL-CIO City Commission candidate, hosts fundraiser at Cuba Libre, 10 S. 2nd St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. $250 up. RSVP ncustodio@thewsgroup.com.

Apr. 23- Dr. Rob Cavoto hosts fundraiser for mayoral candidate Jim Kenney at Bliss Restaurant, 220 S. Broad St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Platinum

$1,000, Gold $500, Silver $250. Checks payable to “Kenney 2015”. RSVP Rob (302) 743-6285.

Apr. 23-Beech Cos. mark 25 years at 1st Dist. Plaza, 3801 Market St., 6 p.m. Individual ticket $125, Corporate ticket $250. For info www.beechinterplex.com or (215) 843-2027.

Apr. 23- 13th Ward Democrats present Candidates Night at Triumph Baptist Ch., Germantown & Hunting Park Aves., 68 p.m.

Apr. 28- Councilwoman Marian Tasco hosts cocktail reception for Derek Green, candidate for city council at large, Estia, 1405 Locust St., 5:30 pm. For info call Kelly Bauer, 610-841-3733.

Apr. 30- Jim Kenney is hosted Reception at American Sardine Bar, 1800 Federal St., 5-7:30 p.m. Platinum $1,000, Gold $500, Silver $250. For info John (215) 769-5764 or JJL@lpmgcompanies.com.

Apr. 30- State Rep. John Taylor hosts Spring in Philadelphia Fundraiser at Colonial Dames, 1630 Latimer St., 5:30 p.m.

Benefactors $1,000, Patrons $500, Sponsors $250. For info (215) 545-2244 or jct.uta@att.net.

May 1- Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Committee hosts Contest & Open House at its training facility, 10401 Decatur Rd., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 20 senior apprentices compete in general carpentry, interior-systems carpentry, floor laying, mill/cabinetmaking, millwright and wharf & dock categories. Features construction exhibits and complimentary refreshments.

It’s a Family Fund. For info (215) 824-2300.

May 1- Nat’l Shrine of St. Rita

Peace Award to Fr. Douglas McKay at Popi’s Restaurant, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 6-course meal and wine $65. For info (215) 546-8333.

May 3- 1st & 39th Ward GOP host Ward Party at JP Caterers, 9th & Bigler Sts., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tickets $40. For info Domenic Chiavaroli (215) 8505350.

May 9- Columbus Sq. holds Reunion at the Square (Rain Date May 16). Open House 10:00-11:30 a.m., Family Festivities 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. For info Karen Dougherty (215) 755-0372.

May 12- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell & Bernadette Wyche host 24th & 46th Ward Mtg. at The Enterprise Ctr., 4548 Market St., 6 p.m.

May 15- Pandora Woods hosts Old School Dance Party for Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown at The View, 800 N. Broad St., 6-11 p.m.

Dancing, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar. Guests Lt. Gov. Mike Stack, State Sen. Vincent Hughes and Doug Henderson.

For info (609) 472-1351 or Oldschoolparty2015@gmail.co m.

May 15- Day of the Rope Awards Dinner is hosted at Elevators Constructors’ Townsend Rm., 12273 Townsend Rd., 7 p.m. Honorees – Outstanding Irish American Labor Leader: John Kane, Business Mgr./Financial Secretary-Treasurer Plumbers Local 690; Lifetime Achievement Award: Judge Kevin Dougherty, Court of Common Pleas Administrative Judge/Trial Division; Frank Donaghy.

FROM LEFT, Allen Lamboy, senior VP of Community Development Lending at Citizens Bank; Otis Bullock, Jr., Esquire, executive director of Diversified Community Services; Councilman Kenyatta Johnson; Mayor Michael A. Nutter; and Lorrane Yarborough, board president for Diversified Community Services cut the groundbreaking ribbon in Point Breeze.

16th & Tasker Streets, with housing for years to come. In lion in Low Income Housing the intention of making capital March 2013, PHFA awarded Tax Credits and underwent a improvements to ensure the Tasker Village project major renovation and retrofit. preservation of affordable with an allocation of $3.4 mil- Upgrades included new Ener-

State Sen. Farnese’s All Heart At Senior Expo

gyStar appliances; water heaters; HVAC system upgrades; photo-voltaic solar panels to power public lighting; new kitchens, floors and bathroom upgrades; and a new community center.

“Tasker Village Apartments is an excellent development and Diversified Community Services has been a great partner. The importance of affordable housing in Greater Philadelphia cannot be overstated,” said Daniel K. Fitzpatrick, president of Citizens Bank in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

“In a year and a half, Citizens Bank is already more than halfway toward achieving our goal of $1 billion in community development investment across our footprint. We are pleased to be working with leaders in the communities we serve to provide funding for crucial affordable housing

projects. Our $1 billion commitment to affordable housing complements the bank’s charitable program, Citizens Helping Citizens, which addresses the key areas of hunger, economic development, financial education and volunteerism as well as housing.”

The project will remain affordable for another 30 years, in the midst of a gentrifying neighborhood. “This project demonstrates an inclusionary vision to allow long-term residents to remain and thrive in Point Breeze,” said Otis L. Bullock, Jr., Esq., executive director of Diversified Community Services. “We need more projects just like this to build sustainable neighborhoods.”

For more information on renting a unit, call (215) 4639280 or email nvolpack@multifamilymgt.com.

The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

Diversified Community Services announced the grand reopening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tasker Village Apartments, a 28-unit affordable housing complex located in the Point Breeze section of Southwest Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter attended the event which also featured numerous guests involved with the project, including Brian Hudson, executive director of Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, who served as the chief financier of the project; City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson; officials from the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, the Office of Housing and Community Development and Citizens Bank.

In 2011, Diversified Community Services took possession of Tasker Village Apartments, an existing affordable-housing facility at

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Ribbon Cutting For Affordable Housing In Point Breeze

MARGIE PASSIO and Maude Lopaz get some security advice from Community Officer Ace Delgado.

Photos by Maria Merlino

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

MARIA SAMA, Donato Colavita and Michelle LoRocco appreciate all State Sen. Larry Farnese has done for the community.

COMMUNITY OFFICER Ace Degado, Arnetta Bostic, State Sen. Larry FarLIFELONG South Philadelphians Anna Mo- nese, Officer Linda Redanauer and Sonny Tanzini feel secure in knowing tolla and Sally Woods enjoy Senior Expo. good information was presented.

STATE Sen. Larry Farnese can’t resist “Oh Dem Golden Slippers” by the Hardly Ables, a trio of Mummers from string Bands: Fralinger’s, Greater Kensington and South Phila.

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UNION LABOR

CITY HALL (Cont. From Page 10) An ideal replacement would be AUDITOR GENERAL EUGENE DiPASQUALE. DePasquale is in his first term as Auditor General. He has a statewide victory under his belt.

Plus his narrative is very attractive. His ethical, good-government track record is a known commodity in Harrisburg and

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

ELEPHANT 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.

(Cont. From Page 10) contributions. Philadelphia DA SETH WILLIAMS decided to pick up the cases and his office has been successful.

After another Philadelphia paper published a less-than-favorable article about her, she demanded an interview with the editorial board. She arrived at the meeting with controversial attorney RICHARD SPRAGUE and refused to comment based on advice from counsel.

Last year she released the names of people then in the Corbett administration as well as former state employees who passed around pornographic materials, sometimes through their state email accounts. Where she stepped afoul here was that the list she issued conveniently had the names of any Democrats redacted. So it did look like a po-

around the state.

A recent poll indicated JOE SESTAK has lost ground in his US Senate quest against PAT TOOMEY, but none of the other potential Democratic challengers appears to be real.

Philadelphia DA SETH WILLIAMS, STATE SEN. VINCE HUGHES, Josh Shapiro, Former Scranton-area CONGRESSMAN CHRIS CARNEY and Bucks County CHAIR JOHN CORDISCO

have had their names floated.

Sestak has $1.35 million in the bank, so his challenger would need to start raising money soon. A candidate who is independently wealthy may be an attractive choice some insiders have speculated.

Another great candidate would be former GOV. ED RENDELL. But it appears he is going to be a key player to the presidential campaign of HILLARY CLINTON.

litical ploy to hurt Corbett in his reelection campaign.

An anonymous source sent pornographic emails initiated by then-SUPREME COURT JUSTICE SEAMUS McCAFFERY to a local Philadelphia paper. Instead of just letting the issue go, Kane then claimed the pornography exchanges included images of children. The next day, her office released a statement that the images of children were not pornographic. Why did she mention the pictures of children then?

Her most-recent misstep is an alleged misdeed. She is accused of illegally leaking details of a grand-jury investigation of former NAACP leader JERRY MONDESIRE. A Montgomery County grand jury recommended Kane be tried for the leaks. Her attorneys claimed JUDGE WILLIAM CARPENTER, who appointed the grand-jury prosecutor, did not have the authority to do so. The Pennsylva-

nia Supreme Court heard heard her complaint. Unfortunately for her, four of the five sitting Supreme Court justices believe judges could appoint such prosecutors.

The Supreme Court decision allows Montgomery County DA RISA VETRI FERMAN to pursue charges against Kane. She has hired high-profile legal counsel such as New York defense attorney GERALD SHARGEL Washington crisis manager LANNY DAVIS. COUNCILMAN DAVID OH will introduce a bill to amend the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter addressing concerns about deteriorating bridges and other structures that are not owned by the City of Philadelphia. Non-City owners of such deteriorating infrastructures are not accepting responsibility for remediating the corrosion and are posing increasing danger to nearby pedestrians and drivers.

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WALKING

who post after each article blasting Kane. It is LAZY protest by mouse click. Facebook users seem to feel their comments are viewed by the entire WORLD. It takes no courage to do. You cannot face your accuser. I cannot tell who they are, or if they are male or female. They could be members of the GOP who want the seat, or even friends of a reporter (?)... FACEBOOK also has become a medium of choice to announce political events in place of press releases, even a way to win elections. Yet many people do not use it, as well as those not computer-literate. The event postings usually have incomplete data.

ELECTIONS cannot solely be won by Facebook posts.

BIG TRIAL featured a story about how a federal prosecutor got slapped down by Judge Eduardo ROBRENO, after heated remarks followed a claim by defense counsel that a witness who perjured himself was used in the Grand Jury. The government admitted it made a mistake. It turned out to be the same prosecutor I saw at the Judge Robert Mulgrew trial…. CHALLENGING of nominating petitions is near an end. One candidate said their challenge was not NORMAL. None are. Another said obtaining 1,000 signatures was all that was required. No. If one voter is stricken – you are OUT of the campaign.

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

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

LDC HEALTH AND SAFETY FUND Laborers District Council Health and Safety Fund of Philadelphia and Vicinity 319 N. 11th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 Telephone: 215-925-5327 Fax: 215-925-5329 Web: www.ldc-phila-vic.org UNION LABORERS WE DON’T JUST DO IT WE DO IT SAFE

Our mission is to design and enhance contractor competitiveness and to protect the occupational health and safety of Laborers and their families.

LDC Health and Safety Fund is comprised of four unions: Local 332, Samuel Staten Sr., Business Manager; Local 413, James Harper, Business Manager; Local 57, Richard A. McCurdy, Jr. Business Manager; Local 135 Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Business Manager.

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(Cont. From Page 10) birthday to former State Rep. Mitchell MELTON, still very hale and hearty…. Former State Rep. Elijah DUMAS, as usual, is the most-dapper dresser in town, and stood out at the Kenyatta JOHNSON-Ori FEIBUSH debate.

We couldn’t enjoy a peaceful Easter-Passover with happy news in the papers. Instead. a three-day barrage of articles on hammered Kathleen KANE, State Attorney General, followed. One came out of the ozone on curbing a casino probe. Did this news suddenly arrive? How old was it in the hopper? It came on the heels of a call for Kane’s resignation by two publications in the state. Kane is the most maligned for making decisions on probes she was elected to do. Then we were treated to a travelogue through time, showing Kane’s rags-to-riches rise. ISN’T that the AMERICAN ideal? I don’t agree with one who tells me Kane is on the ropes.

And there is a group of FACELESS and NAMELESS

We’re represented at the table that George Burrell alluded to.

But when we look at what’s been done with access, the record is mixed. While we’ve become known as a city that throws great concerts and are impressive enough to welcome Pope Francis this fall, we also have a 30% poverty rate. We’ve watched as folks chose gentrification over affordable housing.

And I’m not even going to get into how the Black Neros in the Pennsylvania delegation picked up their fiddles and watched as the School District of Philadelphia burned to the ground; an injury to which they added insult by handing the district’s remains to the group of sociopathic 4-year-olds in Harrisburg that likes to throw it into a septic tank just for fun.

Sure, Black people should support Black candidates.

But it’s also about time that we started to live by the following motto: We have no permanent friends and no permanent enemies; only permanent interests.

And if you don’t take care of these interests, you’re gone … no matter what color you are.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

(Cont. From Page 10) whom I’m supposing Burrell (and most of the folks on my Facebook page that got mad about this) would have rather seen this group endorse, what he thought about it when I saw him at the NBC-10/Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce debate.

“It’s all politics,” Williams said. “When my dad (the late Hardy Williams) ran for Mayor, he didn’t get the total support of all African Americans.”

Besides, Williams said, he’s gotten support from groups in the Northeast and in other places where you wouldn’t expect, something no one has done a story like the articles in the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Philadelphia Daily News on the Northwest endorsement.

Williams has a point here.

The fact folks from strongholds you’d commonly associate with candidates like Kenney and former District Attorney Lynne Abraham (get well soon!) have thrown their support behind Williams is indeed news. Nationwide election statistics show

whites are less likely to throw their support behind Blacks than the other way around. So if we’re looking at this from a position of how rare it is, and the key part of the word “news” is “new”, there should have been substantial coverage of these endorsements for Williams.

But this particular endorsement got so much coverage because (a) the group of people isn’t a bunch of ham-and-eggers and (b) Philadelphia is a majority-minority city that looks at a great many things through a racial prism.

But let’s get back to the issue: Should Black people support Black candidates?

On the one hand, yes. If we don’t support our own, how can we expect anyone else to?

That’s just plain and simple logic. But on the other hand, if we look at the question on its face, we’re asking to have it thrown right back at us.

Let’s keep it real. We’ve had three Black mayors. Three of the last four City Council Presidents have been Black. Most of City Council is Black as is most of the Philadelphia delegation to the Pennsylvania legislature.

Page 23

OUT & ABOUT

Page 24 The Public Record • April 9, 2015

by Joe Shaheeli The political muscle of ward leaders and union leaders will be truly tested, for the first time in recent memory.

At the end of this mayoral campaign, their efforts will be watched to see how well they did in getting their rank and file to follow their endorsements on May 19.

By the beginning of this week’s statistics on the mayoral race, it has become clear there are two front runners: State Sen. Anthony Williams and former Councilman at Large Jim Kenney. Underlining that fact were union and ward leaders’ endorsements for the two.

Williams has the declared support of the Laborers’ District Council 332, the Metropolitan Regional Council of Carpenters, Transport Workers’ Union Local 234, Sheet Metal Workers’ Union Local

Will Voters Follow Their Leaders?

Laborers Endorse Anthony Williams

ANTHONY WILLIAMS issued ringing call for GATHERED for endorsement of Anthony stronger schools and better business climate. Backers Williams’ mayoral race were, from left, Council-at-Large candidate Isaiah Thomas, State Rep. CITYWIDE alliance flanking Anthony Williams on stage included Sulaiman Rahman, Ron Waters, Ron Waters, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, in his campaign includes City Council Minority Sam Staten, Jr., Ryan Boyer, Tiger Woodall, Curtis Laborers; Local 332 Business Mgr. Sam Staten, Leader Curtis Jones, Jr. of W. Phila. and City Jones, Jr., George Burrell, David Hyman, Juan Ramos and Isaiah Thomas.

Council-at-Large candidate Isaiah Thomas.

Jr., Leila Waters and Sam Straughter.

19, International Brotherhood paigning successfully for dorsed either for Mayor, its Oak Lane, East and West, led Wards 10 and 50. Unite Here, of Teamsters Local 107, Inter- Kenny with a majority of lo- ward leaders are free to push by 9th Dist. Councilwoman representing some airport emnational Union of Operating cals of the AFL-CIO Council, for any of the candidates run- Marian Tasco, rallied and com- ployees, also jumped to Kenmitted their support to Kenney. ney’s side.

Engineers Local 542 and La- with FOP Lodge 5, IAFF ning for that office.

They represent an area with This past Monday, some Leaders present included State Local 22, PFT, and AFSCME borers’ Local 332.

Philadelphia City Council Reps. Dwight Evans, Stephen a history of heavy primary Kenney, though late start- DC 33 and 47.

If all the rank and file voted Members, one labor group, Kinsey and Cherelle Parker and turnouts in municipal elections, ing his campaign, has the obvious support of ward and the way their union’s endorse- and one progressive political 8th Dist. Councilwoman Cindy with an overwhelming preponunion leader John Dougherty, ments directed, Kenney would community organization fell Bass, as well as Ward Leaders derance of African American Al Stewart and Donna Aument. voters. Voting patterns in past in line behind Kenney. whose hand was evident in de- have a decided edge.

A coalition of Northwest Included are high primary pro- elections produced heavy Since the Democratic livering to Kenney his union’s endorsement, as well as cam- City Committee has not en- Ward leaders encompassing duction wards, especially (Cont. Page 25) Councilman STATE REP. JOHN State Rep. Leslie

Mark

SABATINA JR.

Squilla

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

1st District City Hall Room 332

215-686-3458/59

State Rep.

John

Taylor (R) 177th Dist.

4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137

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215-744-2600

ACOSTA D-197th District 511 W. Courtland St. #197 Phila PA 19140 (215) 457-5281 (215) 457-5285

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4th Dist. Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr. and DC 47 as well as Congressman Brendan Boyle.

In the chaos on election day, he might just get his wish.

Statewide Ballot Positions Chosen Ballot positions for the important statewide judicial primary races have been chosen.

One the Democratic ballot,

the order of candidates for Supreme Court is – 1. David Wecht, 2. Christine Donohue, 3. Kevin Dougherty, 4. John Foradora, Anne Lazarus and 6. Dwayne Woodruff. On the Republican ballot, the order is – 1. Correale Stevens, 2. Anne Covey, 3. Rebecca Warren, 4.

Mike George, 5. Cheryl Allen and 6. Judy Olson.

MARISSA BRUMBACH, Esq., 4th from left, held lively fundraiser for her candidacy for Common (Cont. Page 26) Pleas Judge at Ocean Prime. Friends above consider her standout, caring person and one who would Photo by Joe Stivala

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Linking People Together

State Representative

State Rep.

Stephen Kinsey

Kevin J.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

(Cont. From Page 24) turnouts for challengers or incumbents of African heritage when the opponent is of Caucasian descent.

Will they remain true to past voting patterns, or this time vote in big numbers for Kenney over Williams, whose family history is embedded in the civil-rights movement?

The question recurs: Can either break the long trend of voting by race by whites, Blacks and Latinos?

Ward leaders believe they can, though their primary turnouts have been dismal at best. State Rep. Dwight Evans (D-N. Phila.), at the endorsement for Kenney, said no one knew Gov. Tom Wolf when he appeared before this political group, whose endorsement got the Wolf campaign into third gear. He predicts the same for Kenney.

Page 25

Brumbach Hosts Party

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Will Endorsements Carry Some To Council?

Isaiah Thomas has been battling for a seat at the Council table for the last four years, since he lost by a scant margin. Much of his effort has been on the web and social media.

Nevertheless, he has gotten substantial endorsements from 7th Dist. Councilwoman María Quiñones Sánchez and

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George’s Painting

2015 CANDIDATES for the Links Incorporated, Philadelphia Chapter partnered with the Interim House in West Mt. Airy to provide comfort items to the residents on Palm Sunday, March 30th at the facility. The event included an overview of the program as well as candid sharing between the women that reside at the location and The Links. This outreach event was the service project for the 2015 Candidates of the Philadelphia Chapter. Much success and congratulations to the 2015 Candidates and the Philadelphia Chapter. Seated, from left, Judith Gay, Faatimah Gamble and Trumell Lamb and standing, from left, Kim Reed, Terry Dean, Mahlene Duckett-Lee, Alexia Hudson Ward, Stephanie Watkins, Marvalisa Scott, Denise Wynn-Baker, Renetta Holloway, Frances M. Jones and LaToya Hackett.

O’Connell Hosts Greenlee

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Page 26

Cunningham Reunion Treats Kids

(Cont. From Page 25) For Superior Court, the order of Democratic candidates is 1. Alice Dubow and 2.

Robert Colville. There is only one Republican candidate on the primary ballot, Emil Giordano.

Democratic candidates for Commonwealth Court are 1.

Todd Eagan and 2. Michael

MASSIVE was tribute to legendary Councilman at Large Bill Greenlee held at home of John O’Connell. Saluting Greenlee are Congressman Brendan Boyle, Montgomery County Commissioner Josh Shapiro and O’Connell. Photo by Joe Stivala Wojcik. There is only one Republican candidate on the primary ballot, Paul Lalley.

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BOYS and girls gamboled and danced at party in capacious gym, enjoyed treats …

Lynne Abraham’s Plan For Philadelphia Schools Lynne Abraham unveiled her Education Plan which calls for not only proper funding, but improving the education process.

Lynne supports Superintendent William Hite’s proposal to reorganize Philadelphia’s schools into four networks.

The other mayoral candidates have not taken a stand on Hite’s reorganization plan.

Lynne offers solutions to far reaching issues like infrastructure, school safety, charters.

Al Día compared Jim Kenney’s campaign rhetoric on ethics to his past actions on the City Council. They found that “there are some inconsistencies worth addressing between thi-

CUNNINGHAM Reunion Committee held its traditional Easter Day egghunt at St. Paul’s Baptist Church in E. Poplar, guided by La- … BUT OF COURSE, peak moments were egghunts for younger and for older kids. borers leader Cory Robinson. latest policy and Kenney’s 23year track record on City Council.”

Wyatt Calls For Higher Wage For Airport Workers Over 500 contracted wheelchair attendants, baggage handlers, and airplane cleaners at the Philadelphia International Airport began a strike to protest low wages and labor

practices by their employers, Prospect Aviation Services and PrimeFlight Airlines Services.

“I stand with the members of SEIU 32BJ in their fight for a living wage. My first job out of high school was working for minimum wage at the local Burger King, and I know how hard it was to struggle to make ends meet. $7.25 is not

enough,” said Tom Wyatt, candidate for City Council at Large.

While the airport makes approximately $14 billion annually, these workers typically make between $7.25-$9 an hour and have no access to affordable health benefits or sick days.

(Cont. Page 28)

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In accordance with Chapter 73 of the Vehicle Code and authorization of the Department of Transportation, there will be a public auction of the below listed vehicles, THURSDAY April 9, 2015 @ 2:00 PM. The location: 7000 State Road, Philadelphia, PA. All sales final. Cash only.

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present day.

It is almost no surprise to any casual observer that Dr. Singer was kicked off the ballot for failure to obtain enough signatures. In an environment where T. Milton Street, a convicted criminal, can obtain the 1,000 signatures required to get on the ballot, this simply smacks of incompetence. We knew back in 2011 that Singer could not master the basic mechanics of campaign finance, and now we find that she cannot effectively obtain ballot access. Her legacy will not be one of reform; it will be one of ineptitude.

David Lynn is Republican 37th Ward Leader.

R

(Cont. From Page 7) by the Ethics Board for asking a city employee to gather election data for a partisan website that asked for contributions to her campaign. (Note: If you have not visited philadems.org or campaignscientific.com, do so; they are by far the ugliest websites in Philadelphia politics.)

Singer’s office was notorious for staff turnover, and staff members themselves were problematic. Ellen Chapman, Singer’s error-prone campaign treasurer, was given the position of Deputy Commissioner because she was, in Singer’s words, “reliable, smart and trustworthy.”

Which brings us to the

L

Stephanie Singer

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ALL SMILES is Laura Princiotta, CEO of SpArc Phila., over fact her agency’s nominee, José Velásquez, Senior VP of SAP, who hired a number of her agency’s clients with autism, is one of the 23rd annual Brighter Futures award-winners at Philadelphia Intellectual disABILITY event at Sheraton Downtown.

Councilman Dennis O’Brien presented a citation in honor of the awards at luncheon.

Auto Auction Center

7000 State Road • Philadelphia, PA 19135

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

(Cont. From Page 10) ister. The new machines were first used because the hand-operated ones broke, were old, and could not be replaced since they were no longer made.

There are various ways to recharge such batteries, and some Amish use solar panels, which can recharge a 12-V battery in about seven days. A typewriter business adapts electronic typewriters to operate off car batteries.

Brighter Future Awards

Page 27

WAFFLEMAN

The Amish would remind us that their choice of an alternative lifestyle is not so much a matter of conforming to tradition – for that is inherent in the human experience – but a matter of deciding which traditions are most worthy of embrace.

As one Amishman succinctly put it, “If we got to the place where we didn’t change, we’d be a dead society.” Or as another has been quoted, “We don’t want to stop progress; we just want to slow it down.”

So, are there things we can learn from the Amish.

Page 28

(Cont. From Page 26) If they remember to vote, his chances increase he’ll make it to the general since his ballot position is number five.

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Green Party Meeting Wednesday, Apr. 22 The Green Party of Philadelphia will hold its monthly meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Apr. 22, at Cavanaugh’s Restaurant, 119 S. 39th Street in University City. Voters who are tired of inaction by the two “corporate parties will find this interesting.” The meeting will be open to the public with no admission fee. For more information, contact (215) 243-7103 and gpop@gpop.org.

Terry Tracy Wins 3.0 PAC Endorsement Terry Tracy was the only Republican Council-At-Large candidate to receive the endorsement of Philadelphia 3.0, a group committed to bringing fresh faces and new, pro-growth ideas to City Council. The group chose Tracy over incumbents and challengers alike, including a former Speaker of the Pennsylvania House and head of the Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.

Tracy commented, “I believe our team’s energy on the ground combined with my background in job creation and commitment to reform helps to separate this campaign from the field. I was impressed by 3.0’s leadership team and substantive interview process.” He continued, “When you are asking for the opportunity to serve all Philadelphians, earning broad and diverse support is essential.

We are on the right path.”

Judge Diaz Bemoans Kenney Comments Mayoral candidate Nelson Díaz, responding to a report in the Daily News detailing statements made by Councilman Jim Kenney Díaz termed “outrageous,” said, “Kenney called for a criminal suspect to have his hand chopped off and be-

moaned restrictions and oversight of police use of force.

“At a time when the Dept. of Justice report detailing police use of force in our city is fresh in our minds, it was shopcking to hear Jim Kenney complain about limitations on when officers can shoot or beat civilians, and demand that a suspect’s hand be cut off.

These inflammatory and outrageous comments speak to the core values of someone who’d been in public office for the better part of a decade when he made them.”

Bush Slips In Florida, Stalls In Pennsylvania Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is the frontrunner in a possible 2016 presidential primary in Florida, but he is slipping there and stalled in two other key swing states, Ohio and Pennsylvania, according to a Quinnipiac University Swing State Poll. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is moving up and US Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas is back in the pack.

Despite the firestorm over her use of emails as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton holds commanding leads, with 4865% of Democrats in each state, topping her nearest challenger by 3-1 to 6-1. The Swing State Poll focuses on Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania because since 1960 no candidate has won the presidential race without taking at least two of these three states.

If Clinton stays out of the race, VP Joseph Biden leads the Democratic pack in Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania, with tallies ranging from 34%to 42%.

Jim Williams Gets North Philly GOP Support James Williams, Republican candidate for City Council at Large, has received the endorsement from several North Philadelphia Republican Wards.

They are 10th Ward (W. Oak Lane), 16th Ward (Allegheny) and 13th Ward (Nicetown).

On Feb. 23, Williams also received the endorsements of the 47th and 29th Wards, both located in North Philadelphia.

Jannie, Vanessa Host Mtg. Smoke ’Em If You Got ’Em

VICTORY Stronghold Baptist Church in W. Phila. harbored community meeting led by State Rep. Vanessa Brown and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell.

AT REPUBLICAN Club Cigar Party, Republicans enjoyed fine cocktails and cigars with, from left, RCC Exec. Dir. Joe DeFelice, State Sen. Dominic Pileggi, Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley, State Rep. John Taylor, mayoral candidate Melissa Murray Bailey and Ward Leader Bill Pettigrew.

DA Tells It Like It Is! Schmidt Knocks ’Em Down

WDAS’s Frankie Darcell interviews DA Seth Williams on where he stands with death penalty. Photo by Leona Dixon

CITY COMMISSIONER Al Schmidt was bowling strikes at North Bowl fundraiser, joined here by Council-atLarge candidate Matt Wolfe, Ella Butcher, Zenobia White and MyLisa Flowers.

REPUBLICAN City Chairman State Rep. John Taylor and Council-atLarge candidate Terry Tracy join host Al Schmidt at his North Bowl funder.

Springing Into Employment Mothers Query Judges

STATE REP. Leslie Acosta translates from English to Spanish for job-seekers at her Lenfest Center job fair while her Chief of Staff Aissia Richardson looks on at the “197 Oportunidades Para Trabajar: Opportunities to Work.” Dozens of area employers were on hand to meet with job seekers.

Interview skills and resume workshops were open to participants. Acosta’s office provided information about state programs and services as well.

MOTHERS In Charge headed by Dorothy Johnson Speight, along with Block Captains Association, hosted judicial candidates. In photo at candidates’ forum were Judge Abbe Fletman, host Peter Lyde, Sherman Toppin and Vincent Giusini.

Quiñones Sánchez Spruces Up Park Pillow Fight

BENSON PARK in Kensington South is receiving long-awaited rehab program, announced Councilwoman Maria Quiñones Sánchez. Shown at groundbreaking here at Friends of Benson Park’s Orlando Rosado-Bey and Jessica Noon, flanking Councilwoman and Deputy Mayor Michael DiBerardinis.

Photo by Thera Martin Milling

New PHA Police Chief

PHA PRESIDENT and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah congratulates Dr. Branville AMONG THOSE fighting it out at Bard, Jr. on his swearing in fundraiser for homeless at Rittenhouse as PHA’s new chief of police.

Square were Gopal Shah and Kurthik Previously Bard served as Photo by Bill Myers captain of 22nd Police Dist.

Ravichander.

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

often means signing a reaffirmation agreement (provided you are current on your mortgage payments), and in Chapter 13 this can mean curing a delinquency (arrearage) in mortgage payments over a five year plan.

Obviously it makes less sense to keep a home if prices are falling and if neighborhoods consist of renters rather than owners.

If you are a homeowner who is contemplating bankruptcy, I strongly urge you to spend some time learning more about your local real estate market.

Page 29

by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: Should you try to keep your home when you file bankruptcy?

Answer: Filing bankruptcy, of course, is a personal financial strategy that should help you and your family eliminate or restructure debt and move forward with a livable household budget.

Many bankruptcy filers own a home and usually they want to do everything possible to keep that home. In Chapter 7, this

Has the “recovery” of housing prices been driven by individuals buying homes for their own use, or has it been driven by investment funds buying homes as investment? If the latter, don’t be surprised if we see yet another crash in home prices as these funds look to cash out and salvage their investments.

As much as your initial reaction may be to keep your home, doing so may not make sense because of market forces you cannot control. Bankruptcy allows you to walk away with little or no penalty and sometimes that is the best course of action.

Next Week’s Question: Vehicle repo alert: Are you at risk?

Cohen Packs In Backers

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May 8-10 Philadelphia Merriam Theater

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The Public Record • April 9, 2015

Horse Power

( Boxed Trifecta)

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2002 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER 4x4, many options. leather, moonroof, 1-owner, pa. state inspected & warrantied $3,995.

215-743-8873

tivated, experience in advertising sales a plus. Please send resume to jobs@panews.org HELP WANTED DRIVERS: Werner Enterprises is HIRING! Dedicated, Regional, & OTR opportunities! Need your CDL? 4 wk training avail! Don’t wait, call today to get started! 866-494-8633 Drivers – No experience?

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1988 JAGUAR XJS12 cyl., auto., sunroof, loaded with all the options, VERY CLEAN OLD CLASSIC!!! $3,500.

215-743-8873

State Inspection & Emission

what stage in your career, its time, call Central Refrigerated Home. 888-673-0801 www.CentralTruckDrivingJobs.com INSTRUCTION/SCHOOLS: MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a Medical Office Assistant! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training gets you job ready! HS Diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed! 1-888-424-9412

2007 MERCURY MILAN PREMIERsilver, leather, fully loaded, all powers, pa. state inspected & warrantied $3,695.

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Sandra

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Property For Sale 14 Acres & House Located in Marydel, MD Contact

small

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Online Low Fares Travel

2005 CHEVY EQUINOX A.W.D.6cyl., auto., air, p/w, p/dl, sunroof, cd, pa. state inspected & warrantied $4,995.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

Anna Sherrod 215-548-4933

2005 NISSAN PATHFINDER LE 4x4, 6 cyl., auto., all the options included, including 3rd row seating, pa. state inspected & warrantied. $6,995.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

2002 FORD E350 SUPER DUTY 15 PASSENGER VAN V8, auto., air, p/w, p/dl, pa. state inspected & warrantied $4,995.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

DIANA MARCOS Travel Agent

267-471-0288 7163 Torresdale Ave. Phila. PA 19135 OnlineLowFares.com Dia11Mar@yhoo.com

The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

HELP WANTED: Can You Dig It? Heavy Equipment Operator Career!

Receive Hands On Training And National Certifications Operating Bulldozers, Backhoes & Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement. Veteran Benefits Eligible! 1-866-7579439 SALES – Make your own schedule. Commissionbased sales for print network ad program. Self-starter, mo-

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Public Record Classifieds:

K-Squad Auto Salvage We Buy All Types of Metal Batteries: $45.00 8 AM - 8 PM / 7 Days a Week 4087 Richmond St. Philadelphia PA 19137

2002 FORD EXPLORER XLT 4X4, loaded, alloys, pa. inspected & warrantied. $3,995.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

1997 JEEP WRANGLER 4X4 SOFT TOP 4cyl, auto, 154k miles, NEW: tires & brakes $6000 215-704-1512

2007 HONDA CIVIC EX loaded, v-tec engine, 5-spd., new pa. state inspection, serviced, & warrantied $5,995.

215-743-8873

2006 VOLVO S80 A.W.D. - fully loaded, sunroof, leather, pa. inspected & warrantied $5,995.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

2004 SUBARU 92X A.W.D. fully loaded, 1-owner, new pa. state inspection & warrantied $4,995.

215-743-8873

2004 LINCOLN TOWN CAR SIGNATURE SERIES - gold/tan leather, fully loaded, alloys, pa. inspected & warrantied. $3,695.

Dan Kelly & Son auto sales 215-743-8873

215-288-9500

AVON The company for women and a good men TO BUY OR SELL contact: Independent Sales Representative

National Recruiter 7153 Torresdale Ave. Philadelphia PA 19135

215-906-1321

DAVIES INSURANCE & TAGS

ELECTRICIAN BARRY FISHER

(215) 335-4200

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN

Fax: (215) 624-6675 Notary • Transfers • Titles Copies • Auto Insurance

Over 42yrs experience low prices, fast service lic/ins* FHA/VA Cert

215-927-0234 PA040852

Say You Saw It In The PUBLIC RECORD

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MARY IERO

2002 JEEP WRANGLER soft top - 4 cyl., auto., air, cass./cd, new engine $6,800.

215-704-1512

www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000

The South Philadelphia Public Record • April 9, 2015

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