Panepinto Jewelers
Ron Panepinto Karen Panepinto-Minarcik 702 Sansom St. • Phila., PA 19106 Tel: 215-923-1980 email: info@panepintojewelers.com www.PanepintoJewelers.com
Vol. Vol. VIIXVIII No. 3No. (Issue 3 (Issue 328) 433)
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILA., PA 19114
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STATE REP. JORDAN HARRIS, Councilman David Oh – the only veteran on City Council; Bill Guarnere Jr., Scott Brown, director of Veterans Advisory Committee; State Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams and 2nd Dist. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson are filled with patriotism as renaming of Winton Street to William “Wild Bill” Guarnere Way takes place. Photo by Maria Merlino
Welcome To ‘Wild Bill’ Way
By Maria Merlino The ceremony renaming the 2200 block of Winton Street was held with an audience of family, friends, dignitaries, veterans and military personnel on Saturday, Jan. 16. Although the meteorologists
January 16, 21, 2014 2016 called for cold and blustery conditions, the sun was shining and the temperature was very comfortable. Granddaughter of William “Wild Bill” Guarnere, a WWII paratrooper with the Screaming Eagles Easy Company, and a major character in the HBO special “Band of Brothers”, was very emotional. “This is a great honor to have his name on this street,” she said. “He lived his whole life here and would never leave this street. “I’m very thankful to Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and Scott Brown of the Veterans Advisory for the tremendous energy that was put into making this day come true.”
Get Your Grub Traveling To Nowhere? On At Brunic’s
By Maria Merlino There is something comforting about walking into a retro countertop diner from a long walk on a snowy, cold day. That’s how it felt last Sunday when, covered in white flakes, I wandered into Brunic’s at 17th & McKean Streets. If you didn’t know it was there, you might miss it. But inside is a bustling breakfast and lunch whirlwind going on behind the counter. During the week, most orders are take-out or delivery but weekends are more leisurely. And the Saturday and Sunday menu includes items meant to be eaten at a table, such as homemade creamed chipped beef. The décor? You will definitely get BEHIND THE COUNTER of his the ’70s vibe here. It’s a time capsule. fast-food diner Brunic’s is owner Might I mention that the prices are Dan Lauria, flipping bacon on wonderfully affordable? Breakfast inhis stainless steel griddle. cludes pancake and waffle specials, Photo by Maria Merlino (Cont. Page 2)
OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL files lawsuit against Phila. travel agencies accused of deceptive business practices in South Philly. Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane's office today announced a lawsuit filed against Philadelphia travel agencies that operated under the company names Fly America, Fly American, Africano Travel Services and Fly USA Travel. The lawsuit was filed amid allegations the
travel agencies failed to deliver airline tickets to customers who paid for travel arrangements to be made on their behalf. The lawsuit was filed by the Office of Attorney Gen(Cont. Page 2)
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The South Philadelphia Public Record • January 21, 2016
Page 2
South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897 To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108
P. O. Box 31425• Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax) Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick
Vice-President: Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella
Board Members John Savarese Mark Rago
Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti
‘Wild Bill’ Way! GRANDDAUGHTER DEBBI RAFFERTY, holds a replica street sign renaming 2200 block of Winton Street, William Wild Bill Guarnere Way.
CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY, Debbi Rafferty, granddaughter of Wild Bill, Scott Brown, director of the Veterans Advisory Committee and son of Wild Bill, Eugene Guarnere. Congressman is working on getting a Congressional Medal of Honor awarded to Wild Photos by Maria Merlino Bill, posthumously. “The new Under Secretary of the Army is former Congressman Patrick Murphy. We’re going to make sure Bill gets the Medal of Honor,” he said.
Brunch Is Always Poppin’ At Brunic’s Travel Agency Investigated
(Cont. From Page 1) omelets of many varieties, breakfast sandwiches and sides of cereal and grits … grits! Awesome! For lunch there are the menu item favorites: steaks, hot sandwiches, hoagies, fish and unique club sandwiches. Sides include scrapple bites with syrup, onion rings and Cajun fries. However, there is a menu board that changes daily with new concoctions, sandwiches and soups. Regulars know to call and ask about the variety. Every single thing is made fresh to order. Try the heroically huge giambotta sandwich, filled with a jumble of vegetables and meat. They also sell Girl Scout Cookies. In keeping with the retro feel, there is no website. Owner Dan Lauria, originally from 7th & Tasker Streets, bought the place in 1996, but the restaurant itself has been in business for more than 45 years. In 1970, two friends, Bruno and Nicky, went into a small corner luncheonette business. Combining their names, they called the place Brunic’s and ran a successful neighborhood eatery for 25 years. Both men became ill and in 1996 they quietly put the property up for sale. “I graduated Rutger’s School of Business in 1991 with a degree in finance,” said Lauria. “I had been buying investment properties, and when this came up on the market, I told my wife Nina, who is also fourth generation in the food industry. Her great-grandparents had restaurants in Bordentown and New York. When her grandmother got married, she moved to Southwest Philly and she and her husband opened up a luncheonette. Nina’s parents had luncheonettes. Nina is a very good cook. She’s been in front of a griddle since she was a child. We revamped the menu and her use recipes.” His original plan was to work the business for a couple of years and then sell, but a year into it, they moved into the top two floors and, 20 years later, they’re still here. “Nina took time off to be a mom to our daughter Valentina, 3. When the baby starts school, you’ll see her back at the counter. In fact, my in-laws would be here cooking, but they are taking care of Nina’s grandmother who is 94. They live in Brigantine, but they want to come back.”
(Cont. From Page 1) eral's Bureau of Consumer Protection. It names the defendants Fly America Travel & Tour, Inc. and Fly American Travel & Tours, Inc., as well as president of the companies, Mohannad Samara. According to the lawsuit, Fly America, Fly American and Fly USA Travel operate from 2338 South Broad Street. Africano Travel Services formerly operated out of 6437 Woodland Avenue. The Bureau of Consumer Protection received multiple complaints regarding the business practices of the defendants. Some consumers reported they paid for travel accommodations or airline tickets, but never received them. In several cases, the defendants also failed to provide refunds to consumers who paid for airline tickets and never received them, the lawsuit alleges. In other cases, consumers alleged they purchased tickets to visit family members overseas and drove to the airport, only to discover their airline tickets had been cancelled. The lawsuit further alleges many of the defendants' customers were immigrants of modest means who lacked the resources or knowledge of the travel industry. These consumers in many cases relied on the defendants to arrange travel accommodations for themselves, family and friends.
Additionally, Africano Travel Services and Fly USA Travel were companies that were never registered with the state as required, the lawsuit alleges. The Office of Attorney General is seeking restitution for consumers and to permanently enjoin the defendants and all other persons acting on their behalf from violating the state's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law. Civil penalties are also being sought by the Office of Attorney General. The lawsuit seeks to require the defendants to pay $1,000 for each violation of the Consumer Protection Law and $3,000 for each violation involving a consumer who is 60 years old or older. The complaint was filed in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas by Deputy Attorney General Rolando Ramos-Cardona. Attorney General Kane encourages consumers making travel plans through a thirdparty company to seek information about the company through the Better Business Bureau. More information can be found by visiting the Better Business Bureau's website at www.bbb.org. Those who feel they may have been taken advantage of during their travel search are encouraged to call the Office of Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection at (800) 441-2555.
Consumers alleged they purchased tickets to visit family members overseas and drove to the airport, only to discover their airline tickets had been canceled.
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The Public Record • January 21, 2016
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Party, Labor Unity Seen For Street by Joe Shaheeli It could have been a miniDemocratic Convention, a sight probably never seen before at the venerable Berean Institute Building, 19th & Girard. The occasion was the passage of power, much as was seen when former Councilwoman Marian Tasco announced her retirement and bequeathed her 9th Dist. seat to then-Representative, now Councilwoman Cherelle Parker. This time it was two announcements by State Sen. Shirley Kitchen (D-N. Phila.),
a woman who understood poverty, having lived it, and as she advanced in the political system, used her power to champion for the concerns of the poor and needy. Kitchen was retiring and in doing so proposed her successor should be attorney Sharif Street, the son of former Mayor John Street. Normally there would be a flock of challengers, but those interested need only look around the packed hall to understand the power forces were committed early and solidly toward supporting Sen.
Kitchen’s wish. Beating the drums were Ryan N. Boyer, Laborers’ District Council business manager, whose union can proudly point to scores of officials they successfully supported in their election efforts. Teamsters, Plumbers and building trades unions were in evidence, their leaders joining Boyer for a moment at the event. Also in the audience were Philadelphia developers and business leaders who were ready to help fund Street’s campaign. Congressman and Democratic Chairman Bob Brady (D-Phila.) headed an array of ward leaders, State Represen-
Black History Month Will Be Celebrated In Our Newspaper On
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tatives, Senators, and City elected officials. It was obvious Street had won the support of the ward leaders in the 5th Senatorial Dist. caucus. Sharif presently has been an attorney on the staff of Sheriff Jewell Williams, also a ward leader in the district, but is expected to resign shortly to begin his campaign, which will be managed by Laborers’ Union Ken Washington, who is also recording secretary for the Philadelphia AFL-CIO Council. Still, there is the strong possibility there will be challenges from at least two candidates, who have yet to declare formally. Eyeing the seat is Emmanuel Bussie, a millennial IT professional with several years of experience in progressive activism dating back to Occupy Philadelphia. He could appeal to some in the Temple University community, along with Omar Woodard, a business professor at Temple with a good background in Philadelphia’s all-important health-care industry. In his recent résumé is a stint at State Sen. Anthony Williams’ (DW. Phila.) policy director.
House Contests Hopping For March And April
ing March and April elections in West, North and Northwest Philadelphia. Two State House seats whose occupants have recently resigned will be contested in a special election on Mar. 15. Endorsed by the Dems in former State Rep. Louise Williams Bishop’s 192nd Dist., with Overbrook,
Fattah’s Bid Launched
CONGRESSMAN Chaka Fattah kicked off his reelection campaign with fundraiser in Pyramid Club, hosted by former Young Democrats leader Malik Boyd and former PHA FOP President Rodney Little. STANDING by their man Congressman Chaka Fattah at Pyramid Club funder were Lennon Edwards, Esq. and Mike Joynes.
A host of entry-level contenders for legislative seats will be busy this winter target-
AT EASE with Mike Joynes in Congressman Fattah’s corner were Rev. Jeremiah Cousins and Steve Pina.
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State Rep. Jason
Dawkins District Office: 4915 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19124 (215) 744-7901 M. – Th.: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. F.: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Councilman Wm.
Rep.Maria P.
Donatucci
Greenlee
D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
Haddington & part of Wynnefield, is Lynwood Savage, a 34th Ward Committeeman with Ward Leader Congressman Bob Brady’s (D-Phila.) favor. Newbie Leon Williams, a long-standing advocate of bagging the school reform commisson, joins as of press time. Already announced is Morgan Cephas, a staffer (Cont. Next Page)
State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600 State Rep.
R EPRESENTATIVE
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. Philadelphia PA 19149
Creek, Garden Court and Haddington, is State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown (DW. Phila.) She is facing a criminal trial on charges of accepting bribes. She has chosen to fight for vindication in court, even though her contacts with scam artist Tyron Ali are said to have been extensive. Smelling the blood is Movita Johnson-Harrell, a social worker with a long track record in special-needs housing – and also, sadly, in violent street crime, having lost a son Charles to homicide. She may be joined by Wanda Logan, a workforce-development professional who tackled Lowery Brown unsuccessfully in 2012; by Democratic 60th Ward Leader Greg Spearman; and by Darryl Thomas, proprietor of a barbershop in University City who had studied at Howard University and worked for the Dept. of Justice in the District of Columbia. All these challengers are playing a long game. When four new faces go against an incumbent, they tend to split the “anti” vote and help the incumbent to walk home. Hoping Lowery Brown’s office will eventually be vacated under legal duress, they wish to make themselves known around her district. In North Philadelphia, Democratic State Rep. Donna
State Rep.
William Keller 184th District
Taylor (R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137
1531 S. 2nd Street
215-271-9190
215-744-2600
State Rep.
Donna Bullock 195th Leg. Dist. 2839 W. Girard Ave Phila, PA 19130 T: (215) 684-3738 F: (215) 235-4629 State Rep
Joanna E. McClinton 191st Leg. Dist. 6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139
T: (215) 748-6712 F: (215) 748-1687
work her ward leaders to ensure their voters to know which Ramos is State Rep. Ramos an election day.
Republicans Eye Legislative Seats
Republican City Committee Exec. Dir. Joe DeFelice this week stated the GOP will target several legislative districts in this presidential year, noting the public feeling against the Democrats is “strong enough to be felt everywhere voters congregate.” In addition to State Rep. and Party Chair John Taylor and State Rep. Martina White (both R-Northeast), two seats already slated by the incumbents, he announced Jim Pio is running for the 172nd Dist. James Jones will challenge the Democratic winner in the 2nd Congressional Dist. and Latryse McDowell will challenge the Democrat in the 200th Legislative Dist. Special Election. Latryse is planning a campaign event shortly. Khareif Williams will challenge State Rep. Dwight Evans (D-N. Phila.) in the 203rd Dist. On the state level, the Republican Party last weekend endorsed John Brown as their candidate for Auditor General. John serves as the Representative
Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District
Councilman
Mark
Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332
215-686-3458/59
1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131
(215) 879-6615
COMMISSIONER
AL SCHMIDT
Northampton County Executive, a position he won by defeating a Democratic incumbent who had a 4-1 fundraising advantage and a significant voterregistration advantage. John is the first Republican to win elec-
tion as the Northampton County Executive since 1997. The GOP state committee also endorsed State Senator John Rafferty for Attorney General, Berks County (Cont. Page 7)
Always Hard At Work for You!
ROOM 134
City Hall 215-686-3464
State Senator State Senator
Rep. Rosita
JOHN P. SABATINA JR.
Youngblood
Fifth Senate District
198th District 310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148
12361 Academy Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19154
P: 215-849-6426
www.SenatorSabatina.com
215-281-2539
State Senator
Larry Farnese First Senate District Tel. 215-952-3121 1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145
www.SenatorFarnese.com
Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 • Fax: (215) 492-2990
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State Rep.
John
Bullock in the 195th Dist., which includes Fairmount, Brewerytown and Strawberry Mansion as well as part of Powelton Village, a staffer of Council President Darrell Clarke who won a special election last year, is seeking her first primary victory in April. Freshman State Reps are often seen as easier to knock off than long-established incumbents. Sniffing at Bullock’s door are Judge Jimmie Moore, a veteran political negotiator with close ties to Ward Leader Frank Oliver, and Jamar Izzard, who stated, “I’m all in.” Izzard is a communications specialist for State Sen. Anthony Williams. The 197th Dist., which takes in North Central with parts of S. Kensington, Hunting Park and Feltonville, may see an unusual dueling-Acostas contest. Freshman State Rep. Leslie Acosta will likely be tested by Orlando Acosta (no relation). There is precedent for an incumbent to lose when challenged by an opponent with the same last name – recall Councilman at Large Juan Ramos, who lost his reelection effort when Ben Ramos also sought an at-large seat, effectively splitting the “Ramos vote” in two. So much for fame! Should this race come to pass, expect Leslie Acosta to
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
(Cont. From Prev. Page) of 4th Dist. Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., as well as Edwin Santana, who has taught at several schools in the district. So a tussle between Overbrook and Wynnefield may test the neighborhoods’ respective muscle. In the 200th Dist., the seat State Rep. Cherelle Parker vacated to become City Councilwoman will see Party-endorsed Tonyelle Cook-Artis as favored. Cook-Artis was Parker’s community-services director, so she already knows all the players in Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy and Cedarbrook. She will be challenged by teacher and entrepreneurship expert Chris Rabb, who has received the endorsement of Teamsters Local 830. Party-endorsed candidates are prohibitive favorites in special elections, especially those which are scheduled in between major elections like the primary and the general. But the challengers are hoping to build recognition and position themselves for a second shot at the seat, in the Apr. 26 primary, when more voters turn out. So these are actually two elections rolled into one campaign. Facing stiff primary opposition in her 190th Dist., centered on Mill Creek and taking in parts of Wynnefield, Mantua, Powelton Village, Cobbs
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Jostling For State House Seats
Page 6 The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Courts Fail Many, Losing Their Properties; Council To Move To Eliminate Loopholes
by Joe Shaheeli Councilman Curtis Jones’ Public Safety Committee will introduce a series of recommendations to City Council which should end loopholes that have created an epidemic of mortgage fraud in this city. When approved by the full Council and signed by the
Mayor, it will close a history of families suffering mortgage foreclosures who have long sought redress for their lost homes, taken from them through fraudulent methods. Hundreds, if not thousands, in this city have found their very homes, in which they live, taken from them in any num-
ber of ways, and some of it criminally. Few are these who understand their rights fully. Those who don’t, follow lead after lead from housing counseling agencies designed to help them. Eventually they are steered to the court’s mortgage diversion program, con-
sidered a model initiative back in 2007, and which was emulated in other cities around the country. When they appear before a judge – usually Idee Fox or Nina Wright Padilla – they are given a form which gives them an opportunity to have their cases heard. When heard
a month or more downstream, the contesting law firm and the homeowner were to have already met, made an agreement, or worked to build up their side of the argument before the judge. During that time period, however, the Public Record has learned, in some cases the lawyer or law firm finds it has an opportunity to circumvent the judges’ orders by moving ahead on the foreclosure. By hearing date, the judges find the case is moot: The property has been foreclosed upon despite their ruling. The victim is without home or shelter. The case may then be dismissed without a query as to how this happened. Enter into this picture “The Families of Philadelphia”, a natural coming together of individuals who have found themselves in this same boat, floating on a judicial wave that takes them on a journey ending on the shores of lost property. In the four years they have been drawn together as
dispossessed property owners, they’ve learned what needs to be done to prevent more victims. They’ve learned the hard way that the City’s Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion program, which is funded by City Council, contains loopholes. Over the past year, The Families of Philadelphia demonstrated to Council Members separately, raising the concern of Council. This resulted in a public hearing chaired by Councilman Curtis Jones under Council Resolution 150361 on Oct. 6. The Families of Philadelphia made a series of recommendations that would close the loopholes used by a few law firms and others to circumvent the judicial orders designed to help those facing foreclosures to settle them. Judges and Public Officers of this Court are deficient in areas in the laws involving “security instruments” and basic federal rules established (Cont. Page 10)
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AG Primary Fight Bucks Being Raised
McGinty $$ Target Proves Disappointing Katie McGinty and her campaign team are reportedly disappointed since they raised less than $1 million in the last three months of 2015, reaching $980,000. In December, McGinty received holiday fundraising help from Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid. McGinty also received the backing of EMILY’s List. McGinty also got a boost
Labors Union…Building it right for a better and stronger community And promoting renaissance of North Broad St. Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Jr. Business Manager/Co-Chairman L.E.C.E.T. Co-Chairman Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Damian Lavelle Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper, Jr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.
Laborers’ District Council promotes a safe work environment, jobs completed on time and on budget, and represents union members, who are well trained, productive, professional, and take pride in their work. Union labor…building better and safer communities in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. This ad is presented by LECET 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
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Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli, who periodically writes opinion pieces for this newspaper, is a realist. He understands in campaigns, money talks. He’s been the DA since 1992. That is why he reported his Morganelli PAC Pa, formed last September, has $512,000 on hand. John indicates he will be competitive in the primary race for Attorney General, which may see a crowded field challenging Kathleen Kane, who says she will seek reelection. Others waving flags are Allegheny County DA Stephen Zappala, Jack Stollsteimer, David Fawcett and Montco Commissioner Josh Shapiro.
NOW BA CK
Philadelphia’s Wilfredo Rojas and his wife Aleida Garcia will mark the observance of their son Alejandro Rojas Garcia’s senseless murder Jan. 23, 2015 with a ceremony, which will be attended by many friends, family and members of the city’s political community. The observance, this Saturday, will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the 4200 Block of Macalester Street in Feltonville.
NORTH BRO N O A
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Political Community Shares Rojas’ Sorrow
McGinty has on hand. In meantime, Admiral and former Congressman Joe Sestak, who has been campaigning for a long time to win the Democratic nomination for US Senate, keeps walking and talking. He came to the defense of a sailor seen apologizing to Iranian captors. He said, “In no uncertain terms it would be absolutely unforgiveable for anyone to critique the young American sailor in the propaganda video released by Iran – especially if they had never served themselves.” US Senate candidate and Braddock Mayor John Fetterman says he has Bernie Sanders’ “back” in his campaign for President. “Bernie Sanders and I are not traditional, establishment candidates – and we don’t want to be,” Fetterman stated. “Bernie and I entered our respective races because we believe in the kind of politics that’s about standing up for people instead of catering to corporate influence. We represent everyday working people that have otherwise been disenfranchised from the political process by the millionaires and billionaires.”
TRAINED SKILLS
TREET DS
(Cont. From Page 5) businessman Otto Voit for Treasurer; and US Sen. Pat Toomey at its winter meeting at the Hershey Hotel.
with an endorsement by Iron Workers Local Union 3, which represents over 1,800 iron workers across Western Pennsylvania. “We believe Katie McGinty is the strongest candidate for Senate because of her commitment to protecting middle class and working families by creating good paying jobs and expanding access to job training and education,” said Greg Christy, business manager of Iron Workers Local Union 3. McGinty’s campaign has gained significant momentum earning the endorsement of the labor organizations across the state, including the American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Operating Engineers Local 542, Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses & Allied Trades, Amalgamated Transit Union, United Steelworkers, United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local 1776, and Sheet Metal Workers Local 19. While former Congressman Joe Sestak hasn’t announced his fundraising numbers yet, Sestak reported $2.4 million at the end of last quarter – that’s at least $1 million more than
LABORERS UNION
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Senate Hopefuls Maneuver
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The Public Record • January 21, 2016
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OUR OPINION Who’s Running? Learn To Care
Meet Your Local Leaders
Jan. 21- State Rep candidate Sean Sullivan is hosted Reception at Volpe & Koenig, PC, 30 S. 17th St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Complimentary drinks and light fare. Suggested Contribution Levels: $25, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000. Checks can be made payable to “Friends of Sean Sullivan” or https://sullivan4pa.nationbuilder.com/donate. For info
and RSVP Karen Sugarman (215) 370-1423. Jan. 22-23- Democratic State Committee Mtg. at Sheraton Harrisburg, 4250 Lindle Rd. Jan. 23- State Rep. Jason Dawkins announces Reelection Campaign at Global Dye Works, 4500 Worth St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Donations welcome. For info Danielle Gonzalez RepDawkins179@gmail.com. Jan. 23- State Rep candidate Darryl Thomas hosts Fundraiser at Jay’s Seafood Factory, 5209 Market St., 2nd fl., 7-9 p.m. Donations $15. For info
Registering Independent – Why Bother?
the side, they are canny ombudsmen who help steer their constituents to government services in other bailiwicks. So if your State Rep may vacate your district, you should take some time to check out all the applicants to fill that seat. Who are they? What is their reputation? What are the strengths they bring and what are the gaps in their résumé? Who supports them and who does not? An ordinary citizen who takes the time can get a good feel for which person they would rather represent them in Harrisburg. If you have a lively primary election that matters this year; enjoy it and pitch in! It is a short season for most Philadelphians, who do not live in competitive two-party districts – over by the end of April. So your time to get civic, to make a difference in how your city and state are run, is now.
We perfectly understand and respect being politically independent and voting independently. What makes no sense at all, is registering as an “Independent”. Why bother? In Pennsylvania, you get no say then in shaping your choices of who will vie to represent you in November. So it’s like you have only half a vote, while major-party voters get a full vote. Why disenfranchise yourself like that? Think independently by all means, independent voters. But always register with one of two major parties, so that your vote may swing more weight.
electdthomas@yahoo.com. Jan. 24- Bridges to Education, Inc. hosts Winterfest Fundraiser at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Rd., 1-5 p.m. Tickets $30 include Buffet, Wine, Draft Beer & Soda. For info Angie Dellavella (215) 637-6331. Jan. 24- Dan Muroff hosts congressional Campaign Kickoff at Alma Mater, 7165 Germantown Ave., 1-3 p.m. For info Mike Luce (215) 740-7254. Jan. 27- Democratic Women of Phila. meets at Congressman Bob Brady Bldg., 219
Brady and Council President Darrell Clarke host Fundraiser for State Rep. Donna Bullock at Dilworth Paxson, 1500 Market St., Su. 3500, 5-7 p.m. Partners $1,000, Associates $500, Supporters $250, Friends $100. Jan. 30- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell presents “Getting Your House in Order” at Victory Christian Ctr., 5220 Whitby Ave., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Weatherization, utility departments, homebuyer’s program, Streets, L&I and Revenue Dept. programs, tax programs, diaper bank program.
Spring Garden St., 1 p.m. Guest speaker attorney Lynne Summers. All welcome. For info President Sawyer (267) 229-8507. Jan. 27- Green Party hosts Nomination Mtg. at Calvary Community Center, 815 S. 48th St. (at Baltimore Ave.), 7 p.m. City residents interested in running for local or state office or for Green Party leadership are invited to attend. Meeting open to public with no admission fee. For info (215) 243-7103 and gpop@gpop.org. Jan. 28- Congressman Bob
Continental breakfast. Feb. 3- Four Chaplains hosts Awards Dinner at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Rd., Cocktails 5:30 p.m., Dinner 6 p.m. Honoring Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams and Thomas Manion. For info www.fourchaplains.org. Feb. 4- Save the Children Fundraiser at Shamrock Pub, 1400 S. 2nd St., 7:30 p.m. Minimum $5 donation and receive wristband valid for $3 Craft Beers & $2 Fireball Shots. For info Fred Druding, Jr. (215) 221-2374.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
2016 brings an impressive crop of talent to Philadelphia’s first tier of elected officials: our State Representatives. No politician is easier to know than your State Rep. They’re around the corner from where you live. They help shape Harrisburg policies in ways that benefit your neighborhood; on
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Now the Streets Dept. has finished sweeping the confetti from around City Hall in the wake of Mayor Jim Kenney’s inauguration, the primary campaign season is on us with a vengeance.2015 was a municipal-election year; that’s why we now have a new Mayor and City Council. 2016 is a state- and national-election year. The officials we elect this year, from President to Congress to State lawmakers in Harrisburg, matter immensely to everyday life in this city. Most of the issues we talk about with our neighbors – public safety, good schools, health care, jobs, even sports and arts – rely on the people we elect this year to make the systems work. So you’d better know them. You’d better find out who they are. At the presidential level, November 2016 promises to set a crucial direction for the United States government in many ways. Both Republican and Democratic primaries show fierce competition between contenders who are quite different. In our US senatorial race, incumbent Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) is a shooin amongst the Republicans but who his challenger will be is very much up for grabs. And don’t forget: Control of the US Senate delivers almost as much power these days as control of the White House. Two of our congressional primaries will be sleepy. But voters in the 2nd Congressional Dist. will see lively challenges to incumbent Chaka Fattah (D-Phila.). They would be foolish to sit this vital election out. Voters of all parties should start to case the main candidates of all parties this winter. You can’t properly pick whom you’re for without some idea of whom you’re against, after all. Two partisan teams must go against each other, so you want your team’s players to be up to beating the opposing team’s players. Think Super Bowl. You want your best quarterback on the field, in case they play their best quarterback.
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The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Page 10
How People’s Homes Are Stolen
(Cont. From Page 6) by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Federal and state laws require “validation and verification” of any unclaimed or unsubstantiated claim. So litigants seeking dispositions of properties have been able to turn the process of mortgage foreclosure into
the sale of security instruments. They get away with the property, without proving legality to their claims. This happened in the case of Raheema Beyah, 53, a hard-working mother of three who is a bank maintenance worker. She went to probate her fa-
ther’s will in City Hall October 2013. In it she was bequeathed her family’s home at 5748 Woodcrest Avenue. To her surprise, she learned last August from attorney Stacey Graham of Councilman Jones’ office a judgment had been placed against the property in amount
of over $120,000. Beyah hadn’t been served any notice despite the claim of the litigant law firm to the contrary. No record of her signature on any subpoena could be found. She went to the Prothonotary’s Office and was told what to do to strike the judgement. She did – but
her petition was denied. She then requested a subpoena to require the law firm, by law, to declare “an issue”, and prove their point. That, too, was denied, even though such a response was required by law. She was never told why. She learned, through a Qualified Written Request to litigant JP Morgan Chase. This financial institution answered the client listed as its litigant to retrieve their money, Rebecca Bingham, did not exist according to its records. This highlights one of the major criminal acts discovered by TPOF: robo-signing of fictitious names by representatives. Two national banks have between successfully sued for this practice. In March 2015he US Justice Dept. announced JP Morgan was ordered to pay $50 million to settle allegations it had improperly submitted robosigned documents to bankruptcy courts around the county in connection with cases involving more than 25,000 homeowners. Beyah was guided to file bankruptcy Nov. 30 of last year, only to find her house had been sold the next day. On Dec. 3, 2015, ReMax posted her property, saying it was managing the property on behalf of the new owners. She had filed for reconsideration before Judge Linda Carpenter. That, too, was denied. She is now filing an “adversary complaint” requesting the proper document showing her signature. She worries it too will be denied. The question is why? In another case, a litigant in the case of Sheila Lloyd vs. PennyMac, a Philadelphia law firm allegedly claimed they represented PennyMac, which is a national mortgage lender. When PennyMac received a subpoena to prove their claim from Lloyd, that institution hired the law firm of Blank Rome LLP to represent them. The next day, that firm asked for and received an emergency hearing which
Lloyd was ordered to attend. PennyMac denied any connection to the law firm which claimed to represent it. But her petition was denied. Why this did not elicit a query from the judge? There was reason to suspect one of these law firms was lying in an effort to steal a property. It was also obvious PennyMac wasn’t guilty. So why did the judge not issue a subpoena to the misrepresenting law firm? Sheila is still receiving documentation carrying PennyMac’s logo which is being mailed to her by that law firm. As a result of The Families of Philadelphia’s testimony before Jones’ Committee, the Councilman has drafted a series of recommendations to be presented in the form of a bill to be introduced this week. They include some proposals by The Families of Philadelphia and some by Councilman Jones and his staff. This could prove an end to long reign of injustice. It may trigger a series of legal actions seeking redress as well. Anxious to see the results are those who have been defrauded, those practicing the fraud, and the judiciary whose hands have been tied by existing loopholes. We hope they bring a better day for the city’s homeowners.
COUNCILMAN CURTIS JONES, JR.’S STATEMENT On Oct. 6, 2015, a hearing was conducted to explore numerous citizen complaints and allegations of illegal mortgage foreclosures occurring in Philadelphia. Witnesses testified from virtually every councilmanic district about illegal processes occurring in our courts that are taking homes from property owners without the property owner ever receiving notice that a foreclosure action was pending against them. Highlighted below are a summary of concerns that were raised along with proposed resolutions to abate such concerns. Some of the proposals will require budgetary appropriations, some will require guidance (Cont. Page 17)
by Wendell Douglas
NEWLY endorsed Democratic nominee for 192nd District special election for State representative Lynwood Savage joined Ward Leader Peter Lyde for this photo op.
DIGNITARIES galore were in evidence as seen here with State Sen. Anthony Williams and District Attorney Seth Williams and endorsed 3rd Senatorial Dist. candidate Sharif Street. In background are other elected officers.
AMONG officials at Sharif’s announcement were State Reps. Jason Dawkins and Donna Bullock, City Controller Alan Butkovitz, and City Commissioner Lisa Deeley.
STRONG labor support was assured candidacy of Sharif Street as Laborers Ryan Boyer, at podium, introduced Teamsters’ Dan Grace, Plumbers’ John Kane and Ken Washington of AFL-CIO.
LABORERS head Ryan Boyer joins State Sen. Shirley Kitchen and Congressman Bob Brady as he wishes her well on retirement and on her support of Sharif Street as her candidate to take her 3rd Senatorial Dist. seat.
WILD AND WOOLY Mayor John Street, seen here with Congressman Chaka Fattah, enjoys the moment as he watches proceedings, showing great support for his son Sharif.
COUNCILWOMAN Jannie Blackwell congratulates both State Sen. Shirley Kitchen and Sharif Street as Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and State Sen. Anthony Williams listen. Photo by
Photo by Wendell Douglas
Wendell Douglas
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
SHARING in good news for Sharif Street were State Sen. Shirley Kitchen, State Rep. Rosita Youngblood and Congressman Chaka Fattah. Photo
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Sen. Shirley Kitchen To Retire; Backs Sharif Street
LABORERS chief Ryan Boyer is all smiles at turnout as he shares happy moment with medical-insurance expert Michael Rashid.
Pa. Legislative Black Caucus Gives MLK Awards
JUDGE Jimmie Moore and Emmanuel Bussie, who turned out for PLCB event, have been wondering if they might someday join that august body themselves. Photo by Wendell Douglas
Wendell Douglas
FROM LEFT, Will Mega, Clyde Sherman, Lynwood Savage and Ricardo Slaughter.
THEY CAME from West, North & South Phila. for Penna. legislative Black Caucus Awards: Will Mega, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and Sheriff Jewell Williams.
Photo by Wendell Douglas
Photo by Wendell Douglas
ADMINISTERING oath at PLCB Awards cere- HEARING pledge were Councilman Mark mony were Kavon Blackston, Ci-Nya Vincent, Squilla, keynote speaker Lamont Kerry Kala Hargrove and D-Banks ZZ, under tutelage and media giant Earl Harvey. of artist Aschak. Photo by Wendell Douglas Photo by Wendell Douglas
IN LIMELIGHT at PLCB Awards were Councilwoman Helen Gym, Councilman Mark Squilla, emcee State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown, radio hostess Frankie Darcell and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson. Photo by Wendell Douglas
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
MULTITUDE of awardees received honorary gavels at PLCB Martin Luther King gala. Photo by Wendell Douglas
STATE SENATE candidate Sharif Street shares moment with Carole Creswell at Penna. Legislative Black Caucus Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Ceremony at African American Museum. Photo by
Page 12 The Public Record • January 21, 2016 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Last weekend, the State Committee of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania held its winter meeting at the Hotel Hershey. Philadelphia has 12 members: CAMILLE McCOLGAN, PEG RECUPIDO, TERRY DINTINO, ANNIE HAVEY, DENISE FUREY, WALT VOGLER, CHRIS VOGLER, MIKE CIBIK, CALVIN TUCKER, MIKE MEEHAN and STATE REP. JOHN TAYLOR. Meehan is also the Chairman of State Committee’s Southeast Caucus. Havey, Dintino, Furey, Cibik, Tucker, Taylor and both Voglers are ward leaders in Philadelphia. The keynote speaker at the Lincoln Day reception on Friday evening was South Carolina’s senior US SEN. LINDSAY GRAHAM. Fellow US SEN. PAT TOOMEY introduced him. Graham spoke about how important this election year is for the USA and Pennsylvania. Graham believes if Pennsylvania goes Republican in the presidential election this year, the presidency will go to the Republican candidate. He noted no Democrat since HARRY TRUMAN has won the presidency without Pennsylvania. Graham also lauded Toomey as conservative leader in the Senate whose reelection is important not only to us Pennsylvanians but to the entire US. Toomey, in my opinion, is one of the adults in Washington. He sticks to his conservative convictions but does so with tact and a willingness to engage in dialog with the other side of the isle. State Committee’s business meeting was on Saturday morning. State Committee Members and other Republican activists heard updates from Washington and Harrisburg. CONGRESSMAN TIM MURPHY (R-Allegheny) offered the federal update. Murphy, a psychologist by profession, spoke mostly his bill to revamp how we deal with the mentally ill in the US. He noted our current federal programs are conducted by 26 different departments or agencies. Murphy stated there is no accountability for performance for these disparate agencies and no coordination. Of the roughly 60 million Americans that have been diagnosed annually, he noted 4 million receive no treatment. These seriously ill individuals find themselves homeless and/jail. Murphy estimates that 40-50% of inmates are mentally ill. STATE SEN. SCOTT WAGNER (R-York) and Speaker of the House MIKE TURZAI (Cont. Page 16)
Monday, as everyone knows, is the day that federal and State governments set aside to celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It’s a day that a lot of folks circle on their calendar and plot out their activities accordingly. Especially if you’re a politico. I must have bumped into Mayor Jim Kenney, who was making the rounds during his first Day of Service in the city’s highest office, and Congressman Chaka Fattah, who was probably mixing some campaigning with his Day of Servicing, at least three different times Monday. And there were a lot of activities to go to. My day started at Global Citizen 365’s main site at Girard College. This year’s event commemorated Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Next, I went to Bright Hope Baptist Church where the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia NAACP had their King Day commemoration featuring Jonathan Jackson, national spokesman for the Rainbow/PUSH organization and son of its founder, Rev. Jesse Jackson, one of King’s contemporaries. My last stop was the Martin Luther King Center’s annual luncheon. This year, former City Councilwoman Marian Tasco and District Council 33 President Pete Matthews were given Drum Major awards. And unlike previous years, the luncheon was done before 5 p.m. Now, one thing I’ve started to notice over the years is that a new school of thought has started to emerge when it comes to MLK Day. I call it the “Real King” School. What do I mean? I’m saying everyone has a perception of who Dr. King was and if yours doesn’t match, it’s wrong. This school is in session, especially when it comes to the activities connected with the day. The job fair that’s connected to Global Citizen’s commemoration gets ignored in favor of complaints about the volunteer-project part. The church service and the luncheon are seen as “ceremonial” and “out of touch”. But honestly, they’re all parts that make up the whole of Dr. King. He was a minister. He believed in service. I don’t see the problem. Just one year, I’d like to see everyone on the same page with King Day, if for no other reason but it would give everyone the chance to see the Total King.
Yo! Here we go again with this: the History of APRONS. My good buddy Joe “P” reminded me of them. I don’t think our kids know what an apron is. The principal use of Grandma’s apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few. It was also because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons used less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven. It was wonderful for drying children’s tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears. From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven. When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids. And when the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around her arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove. Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls. In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees. When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds. When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner. It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that “old-time apron” that served so many purposes. Send this to those who would know (and love) the story about Grandma’s aprons. They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron. I don’t think I ever caught anything from an apron – but love. Remember this: Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.
GOV. TOM WOLF was joined by newly elected MAYOR JIM KENNEY at Girard College ceremony honoring Martin Luther King Day. Girard College is overseen by the Board of City Trusts. The board has several elected officials as members, including REGISTER OF WILLS RON DONATUCCI, former COUNCILWOMAN ANNA VERNA, Republican stalwart and EXEC. DIR. of the Philadelphia Parking Authority VINCE FENERTY and Republican GENERAL COUNSEL MICHAEL MEEHAN. Allegheny County DISTRICT ATTORNEY STEVE ZAPPALA has amassed a great deal of support in the short term for his bid for the Democratic nomination for State Attorney General. However, Montgomery County COMMISSIONER JOSH SHAPIRO seems to finally be reaching out to different political leaders for their support. Shapiro will have to garner a substantial number of Philadelphia-area leaders if he’s to have a chance against Zappala, who will clearly have all the western support. But there are many more votes in the Southeast than there are in the Southwest. Einstein Medical Center celebrated its 150th anniversary of the Constitution Center. Among its VIP guests were STATE SEN. TINA TARTAGLIONE, who is also a patient of Einstein’s innovative Magee Rehab Center; LT. GOV. MIKE STACK; former CITY CONTROLLER JONATHAN SAIDEL, who awarded a citation on behalf of CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY. Also on hand were former STATE SEN. BOB ROVNER as well as STATE SEN. TOMMY TOMLINSON and his lovely girlfriend. The entertainment was none other than DIANA ROSS, who wowed the crowds with 10 songs. Diana looked fabulous and sang tremendously. JASON ALEXANDER also spoke on behalf of Einstein. Alexander is most famous for playing the hit role of “George Costanza” on “Seinfeld”. Lt. Gov. Stack toured the Navy facilities in Philadelphia and was accompanied by STATE REP. MARK COHEN. Philadelphia’s military production in both Northeast Philadelphia and at the Navy Yard is more substantial in the war on terror than most people realize. Stack has been emphasizing that fact and the facilities tremendous role in job creation. Philadelphia attorneys RICHARD SAND and JEFF BATOFF are working on a screenplay (Cont. Page 16)
Photo by Douglas
by Wendell Douglas
Wendell
COMMISSION on African & Caribbean Immigrant Affairs celebrated “African Diaspora” at City Council Caucus Room under leadership of Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell. Participating were Anny Koffler, Gyma Tangiza and Jean Marie Kouassi of Palms Solutions. Photo by Wendell Douglas
NEW City Solicitor Sozi Tulante, an Angolan immigrant, shared moment Voffie Jabateh, African Cultural Alliance of N. America’s Voffie Jabateh and podiatrist Dr. Samuel Quartey, president of Imhotep Charter School. Photo by Wendell
FOUNDER of Commission, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell was greeted by Zamoria Brandon of Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. Photo by Wendell Douglas
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
ROUND TABLE in Caucus Room was graphic demonstration of dynamic role African and Caribbean immigrants are playing in city’s economy.
KILIMANDJARO restaurateur Youma Ba enjoyed hobnobbing with Mayor’s Dir. of Policy Anjali Chainani and Deputy Dir. Of Immigrant Affairs Hani White. Photo
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Fêting African Diaspora’s Contributions To Philly
Douglas
PHILA. Dir. of Immigrant Affairs Miriam Enríquez joined Deputy Mayor for Public Engagement Nina Ahmad. Photo
S T A N L E Y STRAUGHTER, former chair of Commission on African & Caribbean Immigrant Affairs, was presented with birthday cake.
by Wendell Douglas
Photo by Douglas
Wendell
NIGERIAN-BORN Sade Olanipekun-Lewis, newly appointed Chief Administrative Officer of Phila. International Airport, had many eyes on her at “African Diaspora”. Photo by Wendell Douglas
Taylor Supporters Jam La Veranda On The Delaware River
PORT TERMINAL operator Tom Holt added his congratulations to State Rep. John Taylor along with Attorney Lew Gould and State Rep. Martina White.
NORTHEAST Catholic HS alumni status is bond for these four. From left are Joe Kaiser, Commissioner Fran O’Brien, State Rep. John Taylor and attorney Jim DiVergilis.
UNION leaders and friends gather around State Rep. John Taylor during busy evening.
SHARING moment with State Rep. John Taylor were Felix Friedman and Steve Stern.
JOINING Republican City Committee Chairman State Rep. John Taylor, right, at his fundraiser at La Veranda were Bernadette Ambrose, Jack Morley and Royce Merriweather.
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FATHER AND SON GOP Ward Leaders Walt and Chris Vogler were among many in attendance.
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The Public Record • January 21, 2016
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(ONE)
REPRESENTATIVE IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 192nd Legislative District
Ward 04 [PART, Divisions 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 09, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 21 Ward 34 (All Divisions) Ward 52 [PART, Divisions 05, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27 (ONE)
REPRESENTATIVE IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 200TH Legislative District
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. in the following election districts and divisions in the City and County of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there will be ELECTED by the voters, a person to fill the following offices, as certified by the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Page 15
NOTICE SPECIAL ELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2016
Ward 09 (All Divisions) Ward 22 (All Divisions) Ward 50 (All Divisions) PHILADELPHIA COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS Anthony Clark Lisa M Deeley Chairman, City Commissioners City Commissioner Al Schmidt Vice Chairman, City Commissioners
Kevin A. Kelly County Board of Elections
www.philadelphiavotes.com
AVISO DE ELECCION ESPECIAL MARTES, 15 DE MARZO DE 2016 Entre las horas de 7:00 a. m. y 8:00 p. m. en los siguientes distritos y divisiones electorales en la ciudad y el condado de Filadelfia, Pensilvania, los votantes de la ciudad y del condado de Filadelfia podrán elegir una persona para cubrir los siguientes cargos según la certificación por el Secretario del Estado. (UNO)
REPRESENTANTE EN LA ASAMBLEA GENERAL Distrito Legislativo 192
(UNO)
REPRESENTANTE EN LA ASAMBLEA GENERAL Distrito Legislativo 200 Barrio 09 (Todas las divisiones) Barrio 22 (Todas las divisiones) Barrio 50 (Todas las divisiones)
CONSEJO ELECTORAL DEL CONDADO DE FILADELFIA Anthony Clark Presidente, Comisionados Municipales
Lisa M Deeley Comisionada Municipal
Al Schmidt Kevin A. Kelly VicePresidente, Comisionados Municipales Junta de Elecciones del Condado www.philadelphiavotes.com
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Barrio 04 [Divisiones 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 09, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 21 Barrio 34 (Todas las divisiones) Barrio 52 [Divisiones 05, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The Public Record • January 21, 2016
Page 16
ELEPHANT (Cont. From Page 12) offered updates from the State Senate and House respectively. Wagner spoke of defending the three State Senate seats held by retiring Republicans and picking up two more this year. I was personally happy to hear him emphatically state we need to r-elect Toomey. Wagner has the support of Tea Party groups, some of which do not
believe Toomey has been conservative enough. Turzai spoke of the budget impasse. He noted that contrary to the Governor’s comments and the anti-Republican legislature ads aired by the Democrat Governors’ Association, we do have a budget. Wolf signed the legislators’ budget and used line-item veto power to reject roughly $6 billion in expenditures. Before Turzai is willing to give the Governor more revenues, he
In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 150901721 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Mary Manego a/k/a Mary L. Williams, Deceased & Eutrina Williford, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Mary Manego a/k/a Mary L. Williams, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Mary Manego a/k/a Mary L. Williams, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 2555 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client. Any information obtained from you will be used for the purpose of collecting the debt. You are hereby notified that Plaintiff, Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 150901721, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 2555 North Dover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132, whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Phila. 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, 215-2386333. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Independence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
wants to see some accountability as to how the administration handles the revenues over which it currently has control. The most-significant new business conducted at the meeting was the endorsement of our statewide candidates: STATE SEN. JOHN RAFFERTY (R-Montgomery) for Attorney General, Northampton County EXECUTIVE JOHN BROWN for Auditor General and businessman
OTTO VOIT for Treasurer. There were no other nominees, so the process was rather short. Normally we speak of local or state issues in this column. However, the recent attack on free speech by the New York City Commission on Human Rights is too ridiculous not to mention. This unelected commission decided to establish a fine of $250,000 for those who address a transgender person
Walk In’s Welcomed Appointments Preferred
with a pronoun the transgender person does not like. While I think it polite to address a person in the manner in which he/she prefers, I cringe at the thought that someone should be fined for referring to someone by their birth gender. The commission said the fine would only apply if the slip was “willful, wan-
CITY HALL (Cont. From Page 12) about Jewish politicians in Philadelphia. Batoff has penned the screenplay while Sand is assisting in advancing it and doing editing. More sto-
by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: How is Social Security income treated in the Bankruptcy Means Test? Answer: The first step in a bankruptcy filing is to determine the debtor’s income in relation to the Current Monthly Income for your state. Assuming the debtor is above that, the more complicated Means Test must be performed.
THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA Sealed proposals will be received by the Office of Capital Programs at the School Administration Building located at 440 North Broad St., 3rd Floor, Suite 371, Office of Capital Programs, Philadelphia, PA 19130-4015, until 2:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 2, 2015. A non-refundable fee for each set of bid documents is as scheduled. The School District will only accept bids from companies that have been placed on its current Pre Qualified Contractors List as shown at philasd.org/capitalbids. All School District Project require MBE/WBE participation as shown in the specifications. FEE BUDGET B-006 C of 2015/16 General Service Contract Various Schools $600,000.00 $ 25.00 Asbestos Abatement Specifications and/or plans and contract documents may be examined and copies thereof obtained from the School Reform Commission, 440 North Broad Street, 3rd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Information as to contract documents, etc., may be obtained at the above address, or telephone 215-400-4730. Make checks payable to the School District of Philadelphia.
ton or malicious.” Even if it someone is willful, should calling a person by the wrong pronoun a crime? Maybe I should not mention this in this article as it might give some misguided liberals in Philadelphia ideas. That being said, any liberal who is that sensitive probably does not read this column. ries need to be told about the role of Philadelphia’s Jewish community in city politics. It is a historical look that gets to a political truth: Ethnic groups have always shaped big-city politics. This story will be a good read for all Philadelphians.
The outcome of that test will determine either if the debtor qualifies for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or it will calculate the amount of money the debtor will need to pay to unsecured creditors in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The bankruptcy code says specifically that Social Security income need not be included in the calculation of Current Monthly Income. And therefore, it isn’t a factor in determining how much a Chapter 13 debtor should pay his or her unsecured creditors. Several bankruptcy courts have ruled specifically saying it isn’t bad faith of the debtor to exclude such income from the calculations. But this ruling does not include a private retirement account. Next Week’s Question: What credit-report errors cause consumers higher interest rates?
George’s Painting Interior • Exterior Residential • Commercial
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Concern A relatively small sample review of judicial records on mortgage foreclosures by my staff indicates many default judgments have been entered against a debtor or property owner without that debtor or property owner ever appearing in court. This seems to validate the complaint that many constituents regularly report to the elected officials they had no knowledge of a default judgment entered against them until the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office posted a notice for Sheriff’s Sale on the property itself, or until the Water Dept. issued a bill for the property in the name of a different property owner. When the Sheriff’s notice is posted or
the PWD statement changes, a judicial ruling has already been made that the property owner owes the debt alleged by the plaintiff. In many cases in Philadelphia, the property owner has never had an opportunity to dispute the alleged entitlement by the mortgagor or the amount allegedly owed.
Proposed Resolution Conduct an audit and analysis of all default and summary judgment decisions on mortgage foreclosure actions adjudicated in the last five years. Thereafter, require an annual report on mortgage foreclosure adjudications to be submitted to the following: Mayor’s Office, City Council, District Attorney’s Office and the Philadelphia Police Dept. This will dramatically increase transparency into mortgage foreclosure actions.
Concern Some members of the Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Court Steering Committee have
come under scrutiny for illegal mortgage foreclosure activities in Pennsylvania and other jurisdictions. These same individuals now hold leadership roles on the Steering Committee responsible for designing the systems and processes by which mortgageforeclosure actions are adjudicated in Philadelphia. In order to eliminate any appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest, such individuals should be removed from Steering Committee immediately. Furthermore, all members of the Steering Committee should be
Proposed Resolution Require all members of the Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Court Steering Committee to agree to ethics compliance and annual financial disclosures. Further require Steering Committee members to be in good standing with other jurisdictions on matters related to foreclosure.
Concern Under subprime mortgage
fers of mortgages that were purchased as investments which, unlike real estate, do not require a clean, traceable, chain of title ownership. (Cont. Page 19)
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The Public Record • January 21, 2016
(Cont. From Page 10) and collaboration from independent city departments and some will require legislative action. As elected officials, we must do all that we can to keep Philadelphians in their homes.
lending practices, many mortgages were bundled together and sold to investors as security instruments on the stock market. This resulted in numerous buys, sells and trans-
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Councilman Jones Responds
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(Cont. From Page 17) These lending practices resulted in two illegal activities concerning real property: (1) Many investors who purchased bundled real-estate transactions failed to legally record its ownership interest in the real property which is a state law requirement that puts all parties who have an interest in the property on notice that there is a financial encumbrance held by another party; and (2) the transfer or conversion of a real-estate mortgage into an investment instrument legally terminates the repayment obligation because such transfer automatically converts the financial interest into an investment which may or may not produce profits to be paid to the purchaser of the investment; therefore the repayment obligation is automatically destroyed by the conversion of a mortgage to a security.
Proposed Resolution
Concern Subprime-mortgage lending practices created new complex legal issues regarding the conversion of real property into securities which are instruments that provide entitlement to a portion of future profits, if any are realized. These complex issues touch upon multiple areas of law beyond the training of the Office of Housing & Community Development and beyond judicial authority of Philadelphia 1st Judicial Dist. judges and officers. Moreover, many of the legal issues created
Proposed Resolution Increase department operation budgets to fund and require training for OHCD staff, housing counselor contractors and judges on the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, specifically validation of the debt as it relates to mortgage foreclosures resulting from subprime lending practices.
Concern Many constituents reported falling behind on their mortgages as a result of job loss during the Great Recession. After a period of unemployment, many property-owners were unable to resolve the mortgage foreclosure action or purchase their property back during the Pennsylvania redemption period solely because of the enormity of attorney fees awarded by the court and wrapped into the debt owed against the property. Some constituents reported the “reasonable attorney’s fees” awarded by the court totaled more than the outstanding mortgage debt.
Proposed Resolution Require the Philadelphia Bar Association and Community Legal Services to collaboratively develop and publish a payment range for “reasonable attorney fees” for mortgage foreclosure actions, similar to the HUD Schedule of Standard Attorney’s Fees which can serve as guidance. This fee and payment schedule will guide Philadelphia judges in assessing whether plaintiff’s attorney’s fees are indeed “reasonable” and help more owners save their homes after a period of unemployment.
Concern Many constituents report to elected officials they are denied opportunities to file documents with the Prothonotary’s Office, including pre-printed, fill-in-theblank forms. There is a strong belief and public perception that pro se litigants are arbitrarily prevented from filing necessary forms in the Prothonotary’s Office. The furtherance of this perception is perpetrated by the lack of publicly available information on the minimum requirements for filing documents in the Prothonotary’s Office. The failure to publicly post minimum guidelines for filing documents results in Prothonotary staff making determinations in excess of its authority regarding the validity and legal compliance of document, a decision reserved for the court.
Proposed Resolution Immediately require public posting of the rules and minimum requirements for filing documents with the Prothonotary’s Office. Allocate funding for the installation of surveillance cameras at the Prothonotary filing desk to record the time/date stamp of all documents filed at the counter. Staff a “Filing Ombudsmen” in the Prothonotary’s Office to provide a second review if Prothonotary staff do not accept and file a document.
Concern Currently, there is no professional standard, training, license or other systemic process to assure conformity and legal compliance in the delivery standards of process service. Moreover, 90% of mortgage foreclosures in Philadelphia are performed by two private law firms which employ their own process-delivery personnel without independent oversight of how such notice is served.
Proposed Resolution Institute a standardized training and licensure system for private process-servers in Philadelphia to be implemented by the Sheriff’s Office.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Institute a moratorium on default judgments and summary judgments without evidence and validation of the debt alleged by the plaintiff as required under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act of 1978. Such validation would minimally require a mortgage to real estate lawfully recorded with the Philadelphia County Deed of Recorders office and an original copy of the Promissory Note which entitled the holder of such note to collect the promise to pay.
by subprime mortgage lending practices are still being analyzed and adjudicated across the nation. Philadelphia judges are not properly trained on securities law or the new mortgage lending rules to fairly adjudicate mortgage foreclosures that fall squarely within the subprime mortgage lending practices.
TheSouth Philadelphia Public Record • January 21, 2016
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The South Philadelphia Public Record • January 21, 2016
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