Pr 897 p by The Public Record

Vol. XIII No. 14

Issue 897

April 6, 2017

“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”

PhiladelphiaPublicRecord

A VICTORY FOR THESE VICTIMS! Photo by Wendell Douglas

MEMBERS of “The Families of Phila.” have cause to celebrate. A federal judge has ordered local courts to answer charges levied by Phila. homeowners that the city’s mortgage-foreclosure practices have illegally forced hundreds out of their homes. TFOP members with similar cases: Johnny Young, Jameel El, Adisa Folami El, Crystal Stephen, Sheila Lloyd and Danyiell Wright. Exclusive story on Page 2

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MEET D.A. CANDIDATE JACK O’NEILL P. 10

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BIRTS BUILDING FUND LAUNCHED

ONALD “Ducky” Birts, legendary aide to Congressman Bob Brady (D-Phila), is an icon who continues to build on a dream that is close to becoming a reality, and it is one that will benefit hundreds of North Philadelphia youngsters yearly. A major step toward the beginning of that dream took place recently when the Ducky Birts Foundation entered into an agreement to purchase the Portuguese American Society building at 182-92 W. Ashdale, just off the Roosevelt Boulevard. It includes a building that encompasses 13,800 square feet and sits on one and a

half acres, providing plenty of parking. It’s big enough to enable Birts to complete his project of a school for many purposes, primarily aiding the growth and training of young African Americans. Now comes the first Capital Fund Drive Kick-Off Luncheon hosted by the Ducky Birts Foundation. It is scheduled for April 15 at noon at 1st Dist. Plaza, 3801 Market Street. The luncheon will “recognize extraordinary individuals who have contributed to enhancing the quality of life for all Philadelphians.” Seventeen are being honored.

They include elected officials: State Rep. Mike Driscoll, Councilwoman Helen Gym, State Rep. Jordan Harris, State Sens. Art Haywood and Sharif Street, Commissioner Lisa Deeley, Retired Sheriff Barbara Deeley, and Councilman Derek Green and his wife Sheila. Others include: Leroy Howell, Paula Peebles, Rev. Charles W. Quann, Gary & Lisa Shepherd, Worshipful Grand Master Malcolm E. Harris, Grand Worthy Matron Marva Linda Montgomery and, posthumously, Joan Howell. For information and tickets call (215) 242-1220 or (215) 248-4765.

BRADY INVITES DISTRICT H.S. STUDENT ARTISTS

ONGRESSMAN Robert A. Brady (D-Phila.) invites talented student artists attending high schools in the 1st Congressional Dist. to take part in the 2017 Congressional Art Competition. The annual nationwide art competition provides Members of Congress with the opportunity to showcase the talents of creative young artists in their districts. Application details for the competition are being sent to public, parochial, charter and private high schools in the First Congressional District. The information will also be available on Representative’s

Brady website: Brady.house. gov/art competition. Submissions must be uploaded to the Congressman’s Facebook page or submitted by email to PA01ArtComp@mail. house.gov by 5 p.m. Friday, April 25. One winning entry will be selected from the entries in the District – this winning work of art will be taken to Washington, D.C. to hang in the US Capitol for a year. The winning artist will also be invited to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Washington, D.C. with the other winners from across the country.

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CITY’S JUDICIAL DISTRICT MUST NOW DEFEND ITS FORFEITURE PRACTICES BY JOE SHAHEELI HE 1st Judicial District, long criticized for the way it handles civil forfeiture proceedings, finally has to answer charges filed by the Insti-

CARPENTERS HOST ANNUAL CONTEST

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tute for Justice on behalf of four Philadelphia residents. Federal Judge Eduardo C. Robreno has the motion to dismiss the class action challenging its administration of civil forfeiture

ACK again for family and union tradesmen and women to enjoy is the annual contest and open house sponsored by the Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Committee at its training Facility, 10401 Decatur Road. The event will begin at 8 am and end at 5 pm, Friday, May 5, and offers an opportunity for high and vocational schools, senior groups and families to tour the spacious Carpenter Apprentice Training facility and see firsthand what apprentices learn through their four years of apprenticeship. Director Charles Brock indicates there will be competition in five categories: general carpenter, interior finish carpenter,

floor layer, mill/cabinetmaker, and millwright. The contestants were chosen from the graduating apprentices who scored the highest on a written test to become eligible to take part in the manual contest. Brock said there will also be trade show exhibits going on during the day, with a minimum of 25 exhibitors on display. An especially big draw for youngsters are the demonstrations by wharf and dock builder apprentices. The other trades will display their examples of what can be done today in the field of carpentry. Complimentary refreshments are served throughout the day. Those wishing to attend should call (215) 824-2300 to schedule tours and get any additional information.

proceedings, filed in August 2014 by the Washington-based Institute for Justice on behalf of four Philadelphians. Waving a flag of joy and relief are a host of homeowners in this city who, eight years ago, banded together under the umbrella of The Families of Philadelphia. Uniting them was a common bond. Each was losing a home or property through what they felt, and later discovered, were illegal practices, many of which were ignored by the judges of this city who routinely handled flawed requests to approve forfeitures. Each had a sad tale to tell. No matter to whom they were referred for relief and support, no matter the evidence they accumulated that they had complied with requests from mortgagors, and entered into and honored new financial arrangements, their property was on a fast track to forfeiture. Darpana Sheth, the institute’s senior and lead attorney on the case, said, “This decision makes clear in no

uncertain terms that Philadelphia’s state court administrators must now defend their inadequate procedures that have systematically trampled on the rights of our clients and the rights of thousands of other property owners.” Judge Robreno squarely rejected the 1st Judicial District’s argument that the lawsuit should be dismissed because the district had recently changed some of its procedures. Judge Robreno ruled, “This is not like a new case,” finding the institute’s complaint sufficiently alleged both “that the pre-October 2015 civil forfeiture procedures were unconstitutional” and “that the changes to the procedures have not fixed those deficiencies.” Judge Robreno further rejected the district’s arguments that its procedures are constitutionally adequate, holding once more that “Plaintiffs have the better of [the] argument.” The institute claims, “The 1st Judicial District and Philadelphia police and prosecutors have long failed

to provide property owners with a prompt opportunity to get their property back. Meanwhile, individual property owners have been forced to attend as many as 10 or more proceedings, with many losing their property for missing a single one. And for almost a decade, the 1st Judicial District let the city’s prosecutors run a forfeiture ‘courtroom,’ the infamous Courtroom 478, with no judge or jury.” “Philadelphia tried to seize my home even though I did not do anything wrong, but the court system in Philadelphia did not give me a chance even to see a judge,” said Christos Sourovelis, the lead plaintiff in the case. “I am very happy the case will go on, because it means the court administrators are going to have to be accountable for the nightmare they put my family and others through.” “Civil forfeiture laws are draconian and outrageous in many places in the country, but Philadelphia is in a league of its (Cont. Page 3)

spokesman for the group, has long cited the federal laws which were being given short shrift by the Philadelphia courts. He said The Families of Philadelphia collectively has put over eight years of research into cases involving its members. He believes he will provide the institute with more proof of misconduct and deceptive legal practices by some law firms which have stolen property from Philadelphia homeowners. “Soon,” he adds, “but unfortunately, not in time to save the homes of many Philadelphians. The Feds will demand and make sure remedial changes are put in place, ending the travesties being inflicted on the poor victims caught in this web spun by the courts and some law firms.”

Philadelphia - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market.

As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To order a FREE copy of this special report Call toll-free 1-800-560-2075 and enter 5000. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

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en a big dip nationally. She was among several who testified before City Council at a hearing chaired by Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr. as to her arduous and costly efforts to save her home. Today, her case sits in the State’s Superior Court. Despite this, her property is being processed for Sheriff Sale on May 2. Sheriff Jewell Williams, who has seen cases such as hers sent to him to be auctioned, says he and his staff have offered as much assistance as they were able, pointing her and others to where help might be available. But, bound by state law, his office has to process those properties for sale, unless stopped by agreement or court order. Johnny Young, who is a

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(Cont. Form Page 2) own in how it treats property owners,” explained Milad Emam, an attorney at the institute. Philadelphia has seized over $64 million from its residents in an 11-year forfeiture machine that must be dismantled. The Philadelphia Public Record for the past two years has periodically reported on problems suffered by the members of The Families of Philadelphia, detailing what they cited as illegal procedures leading to their homes being placed on sheriff sales. Crystal Stephens, 56, has been one of the victims. For the past 27 years, she has lived in her Northern Liberties home, which she owns. She found herself battling her mortgage company, which had refused to lower her rates when they had tak-

7 Things You Must Know Before Putting Your Philly Home Up for Sale

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MORTGAGE FORFEITURE VICTIMS WILL HAVE THEIR CASES HEARD

D.A. CANDIDATES MUST LEARN A LESSON

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A.F.L.-C.I.O. ALL IN ON BUTKOVITZ

POLS on the STREET BY JOE SHAHEELI ISTRICT Attorney candidate Joe Khan boasts his campaign has raised over $500,000, attributing this to almost 900 donors and a median contribution of $200. Khan’s campaign has

A PRIZED early endorsement for City Controller Alan Butkovitz came from the Phila. Council AFL-CIO. Council President Pat Eiding, L, shakes Butkovitz’s hand as a massed rank of union leaders applaud. Labor regards Butkovitz, a union member himself, as a strong supporter during many drawn-out and often contentious disputes with former Mayor Michael Nutter. Photo by Wendell Douglas

more than doubled its contribution total since the last reporting period ended only three months ago. But he needs to use it wisely. He shouldn’t waste time on the internet or social me-

dia, nor on television and newspaper ads blasting any one of his seven opponents seeking the Democratic nod for DA this May 16 primary. His press secretary Brandon Cox sent out this email: “GOP real-estate millionaire Michael Untermeyer is now trying to hide his Republican roots by deleting all Representative

Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District

al who recruits the support of the organized vote-getters: ward leaders and committee people, who will remind voters on Election Day for whom they should cast their vote as the right person for the job. Unfortunately for several of them, their campaign consultants will have them spend much of their funds on television, hoping to emulate Mayor Michael Nutter’s famous 2007 campaign ad, where he took his daughter to school, often credited to be the home run that did all the other mayoral candidates in. (Media consultants (Cont. Page 8)

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State Rep.

William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131 (215) 879-6615

Always Hard At Work for You!

State Senator

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traces of his sexist, racially charged 2011 ad for his GOP City Council run. The ad had been publicly viewable on YouTube for years before Untermeyer had his own ad taken down last week.” His message took the trouble to show you Untermeyer had blocked that past commercial and pointed you to it, through their efforts. Took the time to show Untermeyer had pulled the

ad he ran in his campaign as a Republican for Council. Then it directed you to its copy of the same ad. To his credit this week, Khan picked up the coveted endorsement of former governor Ed Rendell, still well regarded by democrats. So to Khan, Untermeyer and any of their peers who will have campaign money to throw around, the first rule is to ignore the fact there is any other in your race. Naming your opponent, as Clinton did Trump, in ads or from a platform, is the same as giving them free publicity at your expense. In this type of race, the winner will be the individu-

Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District

2901 ISLAND AVE. STE 100 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 FAX: (215) 492-2990 ---419 CHURCH LANE YEADON, PA 19050 (610) 284-7335 FAX: (610) 284-5955 6630 LINDBERGH BLVD.

2103 SNYDER AVENUE PHILADELPHIA, PA 19145 (215) 755-9185 FAX: (215) 952-3375 ---SENATE BOX 203008 HARRISBURG, PA 17120 ROOM: 11 EAST WING (717) 787-5970 FAX: (717) 772-0574

215-271-9190

State Rep. Jason

City Commissioner

Dawkins

Lisa M.

District Office: 4667 Paul St. 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.

Room 132 City Hall

Deeley Philadelphia PA 19107

215-686-3460

State Rep.

Councilman

Mark

Joanna E.

Squilla

McClinton 191st Leg. Dist. 6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139

1st District City Hall Room 332

T: (215) 748-6712 F: (215) 748-1687

215-686-3458/59

Represintative

Angel Cruz

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

Boyle

198th District

310 W. Chelten Ave.

172nd Dist. 7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

Phila PA 19148

P: 215-849-6426

215-331-2600 State Rep.

John

Donna

(R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137

195th Leg. Dist. 2835 W. Girard Ave Phila, PA 19130

215-744-2600

D-185th District 2901 S. 19th St. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164

Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927

Kevin J.

Youngblood

Taylor

Donatucci

Greenlee

State Rep.

Rep. Rosita

State Rep.

Rep.Maria P.

Councilman Wm.

Bullock T: (215) 684-3738 F: (215) 235-4629

City Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker 9th District City Hall, Room 577, Philadelphia, PA 19107

215-686-3454 or 3455

www.phlcouncil.com/CherelleParker

Facebook: CouncilwomanCherelleLParker Twitter: @CherelleParker9

BY TONY WEST “This is my first town-hall meeting, but it won’t be my last.” Congressman Dwight Evans (D-Phila.) ended his first community meeting, at Drexel University, on this “see you later” note. Throughout a two-hour engagement largely devoted to fielding citizens’ questions, the new 2nd District representative kept stressing that his mission is to cover every inch of his far-flung and diverse district, to listen to its voices – and then to take what he hears to Washington. It was an unstated but clear contrast to his predecessor, Chaka Fattah, who had represented the district for 21 years. Fattah was an insider’s insider. He would show up for state occasions, and at fundraisers for his protégés. He was effective in quiet meeting rooms with a dozen select attendees. But he was seldom seen at face-to-face community meetings in Philadelphia wards or Montgomery townships. Not Evans. The new congressman vowed to wage a “50-state strategy” in every neighborhood, ranging from comfy Cheltenham and Lower Merion; to struggling working-class reaches of Philadelphia; to dynamic Center City; and to younger inner-city neighborhoods like the one he was addressing on April 2. “I try to visit as many communities, uni-

versities and hospitals as possible,” he said. This meeting drew a crowd of 100, heavy with University City eds-andmeds workers and passionate progressives. But there was a fair sample of blue-collar Black West Philadelphians in the audience as well. While Evans signed on to easy progressive commonplaces in his highly Democratic district – most Philadelphia politicos advocate the same causes – he made it clear he will not be a dogmatic voice of total opposition to the Republican Congress and President Donald Trump. What he wants is to get things done. That will require bipartisan wangling in the Republican-ruled US House of Representatives where he serves. And Evans takes pride in his ability to work across the aisle in a legislative body. He worked well across the aisle in his 35-year career in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, rising to the chairmanship of the Appropriations Committee until he was overthrown in a coup. Still, Evans aims to sniff out Democratic opportunities in a Republican agenda. He didn’t get assigned to the Ways & Means Committee, his pivotal dream gig. But he has embraced his two committee assignments, Agriculture and Small Business. In both, he has moved to make an early mark.

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CONGRESSMAN Dwight Evans endeavors to persuade W. Phila. 6th Ward Leader Pete Wilson that his neighborhood’s voice has been heard, at Evans’ first town meeting.

“Farm policy is foreign policy,” Evans said. It is pivotal both to international trade negotiations, to Pennsylvania farmers and to low-income food consumers in his district. He has come down in favor of urban gardens, organic and locally sourced foods. With two Republican congressmen, Evans has introduced HR 1702, the Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act. Both subjects invite Evans to dialog across the aisle in the Pennsylvania delegation. He has already chatted up his colleagues Lloyd Smucker (R-Lancaster), Bill Shuster (R-Blair) and Glenn Thompson (R-Centre) on numerous causes. There is much overlap of practical interests between parties, he said. Midstate farmers need urban consumers. Small businesses in Sullivan County need as much help as small businesses in Swampoodle. Evans has already said he will not sign onto blanket opposition to President Donald Trump’s agenda. His strategy is always to get something accomplished. He also indicated he would work closely with senior Congressman Bob Brady (D-Phila.). He sees opportunities in Trump’s vaunted infrastructure plans – if they come to fruition. Evans’ hook here is to attach inner-city schools – many of them decades old – to the infrastructure to be rebuilt. Where does the Democratic Party stand today? Evans was blunt. “I do not see a coherent message on policy” at the national level, he said. “We haven’t figured out the pathway.” But he praised the current enthusiasm in the Democratic base, urging it to dig in for the long haul.

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EVANS GOES PUBLIC

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SHEET METAL WORKERS’ EVENING OF HONORS

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SHEET METAL Workers Local 19 President/Business Mgr. Gary Masino, L rear, and his team awarded scholarships to these deserving youngsters at their union hall on March 25. Photos by Wendell Douglas

JUDICIAL candidate Vikki Kristiansson and her campaign manager, Gigi Scoles, enjoyed a lavish affair at Penn’s Landing Caterers.

JACKIE & FRANK Flem of the Plumbers enjoyed the Dinner Dance of their Sheet Metal Workers union brothers and sisters.

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ED McKENNA, L, and Jimmy Sexton were among the huge crowd at the Dinner Dance.

THE RISING class of Sheet Metal Worker apprentices was also honored at the Dinner Dance at the union’s luxurious banquet hall.

NIGEL & ABIOLA Suttan relaxed in the Sheet Metal Workers’ capacious hall.

ON FAMILIAR turf were Jocelyn Reinecke and Gary Masino, Jr.

EVER READY to join in a good cause were, L-R, Ward Leader John Sabatina, Sr., State Sen. John Sabatina, Jr. and Northeast civic leader John Del Ricci.

WALT FREDERICK and Jessica Mastella were the picture of elegance.

ROBERT POULSON, L, shared this moment with Rev. Robert Paul.

CONGRESSMAN and lifelong unionist Bob Brady, L posed with one of his top troopers in the Northeast, Ward, Leader John Sabatina, Sr. and his lovely wife Lisa.

L-R, DR. SIMON SMALL and Jade Heshmatpour were happy for a chance to pose with Congressman Bob Brady

BIG SUPPORTERS of the scholarship program are Robert Poulson, L, and Jesse Hugee.

L-R were Gigi Scoles, John Oliver, Jesse Hugee and Vikki Kristiansson.

A REFORMER’S LAMENT

MARK your CALENDAR Apr. 6- Councilwoman Helen Gym hosts “Lunch & Learn with Ira Goldstein of Reinvestment Fund at United Way, 1709 Ben Franklin Pkwy., 12-2 p.m. Topic is eviction crisis. Limited to 40 people. RSVP: Ian Gavigan (215) 686-3420. Apr. 6- State Reps. Pamela DeLissio & Morgan Cephas host Public Mtg. on stop-&-gos at Anderson Cultural Ctr., 5301 Overbrook Ave., 1 p.m. For info: (215) 482-8726. Apr. 6- State Rep. Joanna McClinton hosts Finan-

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cial Literacy Seminar at Mercy Hosp., 501 S. 54th St., 7th fl., 5-7 p.m. Covers insurance, taxes, real estate, savings and more. For info: (215) 748-6712. Apr. 6- Judicial candidate Leon Goodman is hosted Cocktail Reception honoring Leon Goodman at Black Sheep Pub, 247 S. 17th St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Suggested donations: $50, $100, $200. Payable to “Goodman for Judge,” 1515 Market St., Phila. 19102 or donate online: www.goodmanforjudge. com. Apr. 6- Michael A. DeFino, Esq., Vincent A. DeFino, Esq., Louis Galdo, Mark Rago & Chris Trantas host Fundraiser for Judge Vince Melchiorre at Galdo’s Catering, 1933 W. Moyamensing Ave., 6-8 p.m. Donations $100, $150, $200. For info: Taylor (267) 671-7208. Apr. 6- Self Help Movement, Lt. Gov. Michael Stack and State Sen. John Sabatina, Jr. and Bob Dellavella of Self Help host

“Pathways to Pardons” Event, at Plumbers’ Local 690 Ha., 2791 Southampton Rd., 6-8 p.m. Apr. 6- PennEnvironment hosts Meet-&-Greet hosted with State Sen. Sharif Street & State Rep. Donna Bullock, 2816 W. Girard Ave., 5:30 p.m. For info: (215) 732-5897. Apr. 6- 44th Ward Democratic Committee meets at Spectrum Health Service, 5201 Haverford Ave., 6-8 p.m. Apr. 8- State Rep. Pamela DeLissio holds Shredding Event at Roxborough Municipal Lot, 514 Dupont St., 9-11 a.m. For info: (215) 482-8726. Apr. 8- State Rep. Morgan Cephas hosts Youth Summer Employment Information Session at Anderson Cultural Ctr., 5301 Overbrook Ave., 10 a.m.-12 m. To register: (215) 8796625. Apr. 8- State Rep. Angel Cruz holds City Cleanup at Indiana & Mutter Sts. All individual & group volunteers welcome. For info: José Gi-

ral (215) 291-5643. Apr. 8- EPABID hosts Easter Egg Hunt at SPOAC, E. Passyunk Ave. & Dickinson St., ages 0-4 11 a.m., 5-7 12 m., 8-10 1 p.m. Free. Apr. 8- United Republican Cl. hosts Shrimp Night at 3156 Frankford Ave. 7-11 p.m. Tickets $30. Shrimp, beer, hoagies, meatballs, music and fun. For info: Joseph DeFelice (215) 756-4158. Apr. 8- Lucretia Clemons is hosted Chicken or Fish Fry Fundraiser at Lou & Choo’s Lounge, 2101 W. Hinting Pk. Ave., 2-6 p.m. Tickets $20. Buy online: www.lucretia4judge.com/events. For info: lucretia4judge@ comcast.net. Apr. 8- Judicial candidate Vikki Kristiansson is hosted Cocktail Reception at University City Arts League, 4226 Spruce St., 4-6p.m. Instructor-led art class for children ages 4+ with RSVP. Champions $100, Friends $75, Supporters $50. RSVP:https://goo. gl/KThMUI or Melissa (Cont. Page 14)

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BY BRETT MANDEL HE RECENT revelation that reform-oriented Mayor Michael Nutter and his top Finance and Integrity officials conspired to look the other way and tolerate fraudulent misspending by a key agency head is just another reminder of how hard it is for our governmental umpires to call a consistent strike zone for a full nine innings. I can only imagine that, when on the inside, one rationalizes that tolerating theft of honest services here, allows one to make improvements elsewhere; that allowing abuses to continue there, allows a promising project to move forward somewhere else; and that turning a blind eye to actions that will result in calamity in one part of the city, facilitates progress somewhere else. Maybe every one of these officials looks in the mirror each day and equivocates to convince him- or herself that it is only by tolerating some wrongdoing that the good he or she is trying to advance can occur. I would like to think that such ethical compromises might only be justified if they could result in some grand and fundamental improvement for the city,

many frustrated others -- could make a positive difference in an official position, but I often wonder whether I would be swept in by the undertow that seems to pull so many Philadelphia into the look-the-other way abyss. I have seen it happen to too many individuals I liked and respected and each time I see bad behavior by someone I had thought of as “one of the good guys,” I wonder if it is simply impossible to not become part of this problem. Excerpted from a longer article, “Hard to Tell the Reformers from the Hacks.” To read the complete article, visit http:// brettmandel.com/.

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OPINION

but they too often seem to simply be part of the everyday transactional nature of Philadelphia politics that allows individuals to continue to hold office. The cost of doing political business in Philadelphia is simply to not draw attention to everything that is wrong. As someone who has run for office, I know I put my hat in the ring because I believed I could exercise the powers and responsibilities of the office I sought to make Philadelphia a better city. Running for city controller, I stressed that I would root out the shenanigans that too many Philadelphia officials ignore, that I would provide Philadelphians with information about government spending that is currently kept from view, and that I would not pull my punches in fighting for a better Philadelphia. But, in seeking office, I saw the ghosts of future compromises in the shadows of my campaign focused on sunlight. The issues stressed in the campaign were crafted by professionals based on political calculations designed to sway undecided voters, but also not to spook political supporters. In communicating with the political class, I was constantly counseled to stress approachability and flexibility. Political allies stressed that an insistence on unbending integrity in office would have to be preceded by a certain political malleability on the campaign trail. I believe that I -- and

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PROTESTING BILL O’REILLY

SIGNS outside Fox 29 new station in Old City say it all as local activists protested Fox News personality Bill O’Reilly’s comments about Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Photos by Leona Dixon

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POLS on the STREET (Cont. From Page 4) also benefit by earning large commissions with that route.) Rule two, as we see it, is for these candidates suggest they advertise their best points for our readers, even though their campaign consultants will only get small change for their commissions for those ads. As figured, candidate Larry Krasner is hoping his endorsements by the more-progressive elements of the voting public will translate into votes,

though they failed in the recent campaign of Cheri Honkala. Endorsing him is the Pennsylvania Working Families Party, whose director, Brandon Evans, says, “Larry knows that stop-and-frisk policies, mass incarceration and prosecution of low-level, nonviolent crimes not only don’t deter crime.” Krasner has previously been endorsed by progressive-minded organizations including Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division, International Brotherhood of Teamsters; BLOC (Build, Lead, Organize, Campaign);

and Reclaim Philadelphia.

LABOR MAKES ENDORSEMENTS A word to the wise among those seeking to upend Controller Alan Butkovitz from his seat as City Controller: Organized labor is behind the incumbent and strongly. That includes Rebecca Rhynhart in the Democratic primary and GOP Mike Tomlinson in the general Election. Their backgrounds are exceptional, and do put them on something of a level with Butkovitz. (Cont. Page 13)

VOTE TUESDAY, MAY 16TH Elect

Judge Vincent N.

Melchiorre

JUDGE - COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

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Experienced Qualified Fair & Compassionate A Judge who deeply cares about Philadelphia VOTE FOR JUDGE MELCHIORRE MAY 16TH, 2017

www.judgemelchiorre.com Paid For by The Committee to Elect Vince Melchiorre Judge, Stephen C. DeAngelo, CPA Treasurer

EVERYDAY PEOPLE BY DENISE CLAY VER the last few months, we’ve learned one of the little-known attributes needed to be a lead prosecutor in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is the ability to be unapologetically petty. Former Attorney General Kathleen Kane used her pettiness to expose Porngate and got locked up for perjury in the process. District Attorney R. Seth Williams was so wrapped up in his attempt at pettiness that he forgot about the skeletons rattling in his

quirer, Sprague spent some time in that office, too. While it’s not all that common for private citizens to file suits like this against public officials, these two aren’t your regular private citizens. Their histories with the office are why they’re doing this, Peter Grenier, the Sprague and Sprague attorney who filed the suit, told the Inquirer. Now, let’s keep it real here. When Kane was indicted, she was able to remain attorney general until her conviction despite a suspended law license. There’s no law that says being indicted requires you to resign from any office you might hold. But when you’re petty, stuff like that doesn’t matter. And make no mistake, Abraham’s weaponized pettiness is ruling the day here. Williams and Abraham have been on the outs for a minute. Once upon a time, Williams worked for Abraham (Cont. Page 12)

ETH Williams sold a lot of newspapers for weeks. Both the DA’s office and Attorney General’s Office seemed diverted in serving us in crime-fighting – not to mention DA-AG cooperation. But what does LIVING BY THE SWORD really accomplish IN THE END? If it is newsworthy, we will know. President TRUMP attacked the loyalty of congressmen who did not want to repeal OBAMACARE. Their loyalty is (and must be) to their constituents.

CITY HALL SAM

HAT is interesting about the Republican Party in Philadelphia is it still finds a way to get discussed. The chairman of the party, JOE DeFELICE of Northeast Philadelphia, is going to take a job in the Trump administration. Sam guesses this is because he was able to take 10,000 votes in Philadelphia for Trump away from a half-million majority for Clinton. Now Republican stalwart MICHAEL CIBIK will come back and take the helm. And the old battlers will resume their

a TIRADE. Is no one AL- 9 LOWED to be critical of former mayors or their staff? A SUPERB SENDOFF for Maj. John L. HARRISON, Jr. was held at the CHAPEL OF FOUR CHAPLAINS in the Navy Yard. The military service, with firing squad for the TUSKEGEE Airman, was exquisitely done. Bob ERDOS, an unassuming boulevardier in the Big Apple, is a great loss. Erdos was said to have invented the nylon stocking. On the birthday front: we salute our unsinkable leader JIM TAYOUN. Also Judge Michael ERDOS (April 9); my lovely Aunt Dianne CARUSO, the redhead from Dublin Towne; Consultant Joe RUSSO, and City Planner Paul STEINKE (April 13)! Remember, it is only a numerical age. A journalist wrote in Quill magazine that harassment of journalists is an ethical issue. And newspapers should develop a policy (Cont. Page 11) shop at the Berean Center. The center has been a crucial safe haven for African Americans who relocated to Philadelphia. Over the years, it has been a tremendous resource for retraining and assistance to folks in need. Chester County STATE SEN. ANDY DINNIMAN also hosted a Pathway to Pardons event at West Chester University which was very well attended. CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY is the third-highest-ranking member of the Armed Services Committee. Brady’s importance will rise even more as Trump looks to increase defense spending. Philadelphia Navy Yard continues to build ships and submarines so the city will be crucial in the world to fight against terrorism and our enemies. Brady will be a very important person in the process. Also important in the process is Allentown CONGRESSMAN CHARLIE DENT, who serves as (Cont. Page 15)

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alleged closet when he came after a bunch of elected officials Kane refused to prosecute. But for next level petty, no one can compete with Williams’ former boss, former District Attorney Lynne Abraham. On Monday, in an attempt to get her now-indicted former protégé removed from the office in which she fed cats and asked for death sentences, Abraham and Richard Sprague, a defense attorney who can count fomer NBA All-Star Allen Iverson among his clients, filed suit to have Williams removed. The argument they’re using is that Williams has abused the public trust and shouldn’t be able to use his $175,572 salary for his legal defense. (At least it’s money he’d be earning. If he got a public defender, the taxpayers would have to foot the bill.) Abraham spent 19 years as Philly’s DA and, according to the Philadelphia In-

WALKING the BEAT

Their political SURVIVAL is paramount. He seemed to say he would oppose their re-election bid. He won’t have the CLOUT to change the outcome (now-empowered Democrats will probe to see if some GOP lawmakers can be defeated in the midterms). Many, many citizens are happy with the work of City Controller Alan BUTKOVITZ. When an opponent says voting for her will revolutionize the city – it is best that we note the last revolution was begun in 1776. We now continue to improve the American Experiment in an ongoing, orderly way. That is the BUTKOVITZ style. He is the TORTOISE. The HARE takes off from the starting line; BUT when the SMOKE CLEARS, the tortoise is at the finish line! I am still peeling myself from the wall after reading the NUTTER blast at a public servant who reported spending issues with a City nonprofit. It seemed like fights. VITO CANUSO and MICHAEL MEEHAN will be up against AL SCHMIDT and the Neo-Republicans. STATE REP. JOHN TAYLOR has been the consistent voice of reason. Taylor has gotten re-elected for decades in a majority-Democratic district. That shows hard work and great instincts. Plus, Taylor has never gotten too far to the right and has stayed in touch with his blue-collar roots. The Republicans also have MARTINA WHITE from the great Northeast in the State House. And in City Council they have BRIAN O’NEILL, DAVID OH and AL TAUBENBERGER. Essentially, that wraps up the entire discussion of the Republicans. They have likely hit the wall in potential for growth and that’s why DeFelice is getting the heck out of town. Democratic STATE REP. DONNA BULLOCK had a nice turnout last week for a Pathway to Pardons work-

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he Pennsylvania Leadership Conference held its annual meeting in Camp Hill last weekend. Keynote speaker for the dinner was BEN SHAPIRO, a former Breitbart editor. Other speakers included US SEN. PAT TOOMEY and Pennsylvania House of Representatives SPEAKER MIKE TURZAI. I noticed at the conference that a large number of people were sporting “I Like Mike” stickers. These stickers confirmed for me the rumors Turzai is laying the groundwork for a possible bid for

Control Board. While Turzai can be a combative legislator who does not shy away from conflict, his style is softer than Wagner’s. Western Pennsylvania businessman PAUL MANGO announced that he would be running for governor in addition to Wagner. Former LT. GOV. JIM CAWLEY, CONGRESSMAN MIKE KELLY (R-Butler), and State House MAJORITY LEADER DAVE REED’S (R-Indiana) names have been mentioned. As I saw people close to new PA Republican Party CHAIRMAN VAL DiGIORGIO sporting “I Like Mike” stickers, I doubt Cawley is really interested in running in 2018. Cawley was a huge supporter of DiGiorgio in his run for party chairman. Drexel University PROF. GEORGE CICCARIELLO last week tweeted, “Some guy gave up his first-class seat for a uniformed soldier. People are thanking (Cont. Page 12)

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governor in 2018. People believe Turzai will wait until after the budget is passed to make a formal announcement. What convinced me Turzai is interested in taking on GOV. TOM WOLF was when I saw MARK HARRIS, the CEO of Cold Spark, with one of the stickers, and acting as a spokesperson for Turzai. Harris ran both of Toomey’s campaigns for Senate. Harris’s forte is running campaigns, not helping politicians push issues. I would think Turzai’s high-profile presence at the conference was to counter STATE SEN. SCOTT WAGNER, who announced a while ago his interest in running for governor. The attendees of PLC are typically grassroots conservatives and anyone interested in taking on Wagner needed to be there. Turzai was elected speaker in 2015. He has focused on reducing taxes and fiscal responsibility. He is a supporter of school choice and privatizing the Liquor

O’NEILL BALANCES OLD SCHOOL, NEW BLOOD

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T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D

BY GREG SALISBURY F EVER there was a portent for an underdog candidate, it would have to be the ballot petition submitted by Jack O’Neill. The 35-year-old, who had left the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office in 2016 after a 10-year stint, made a surprise entrance into an already-crowded Democratic primary for district attorney with a petition filled with 1,776 signatures. And while nothing augurs success in the Cradle of Liberty quite like that number, those following the race were much more interested to know why he waited until the last minute to enter it. “I wasn’t interested in running against Seth,” O’Neill said of his former boss, indicted current District Attorney Seth Williams. “I saw everyone going to attack Seth, ignoring all the good reforms put in place the past eight or nine years, the great staff implementing those reforms – I didn’t want to be part of that.” The calculus for the firsttime politician changed when Williams announced in February he wouldn’t seek re-election due to a raft of legal issues that culminated in his federal indictment last month. Given the current tilt of the campaign to malign virtually every aspect of the Williams era, it comes as something of a surprise to hear O’Neill not only acknowledge the DA’s accomplishments, but to willingly list a number of initiatives he would like to keep in place in his own administration. “There’s a lot of discussion about what needs to be done, but a failure to recognize that we have been doing those things. We can do better and build off the success of these programs.” he explained. “For example,

for first-time drug offenders, we have a program called AMP” – the Accelerated Misdemeanor Program – “and we have AMP 2 as well. These are programs to basically release upon arraignment people who are drug offenders and give them certain things to do, and link them with rehab programs. It currently covers about 40% of the people eligible; we would like it to cover more; we just don’t think people know it exists. “We also have a program for felony offenders who are nonviolent,” he continued. “It’s a really good program that only covers about 10% of the people it needs to. It costs $500-$1,000 per person. Can we expand it? Yes. But we need to go to City Hall and ask for more money. The cost of an offender who goes through this program at $500 per person is still substantially less than the $43,000 per year it costs to incarcerate them.” Touching on one of the flashpoints of the campaign, O’Neill agrees cash bail should be among the first reforms implemented by the new district attorney. For him, the key is to rethink the way the city deals with detainers and their impact on those incarcerated with no way of paying bail in a timely manner. “We have thousands of people in our county jails right now, and the only reason they are in there is because they can’t pay their bail,” he said. “Everyone has missed the fact we can do a lot more good when it comes to mass incarceration if the DA’s office has the courage to say that if these people are on probation for something nonviolent and low-level and they are arrested again for something nonviolent and low-level, we are going to ask the judge to not lodge

Jack O’Neill … knows the ropes. a detainer. We will put it on ourselves. “The other thing we can do is, there are approximately 40,000 people on probation in Philadelphia right now,” he continued, discussing the second piece of the detainer puzzle. “We can reduce that number substantially – I believe by half. If people have been following the conditions of their probation for two years, then probation isn’t doing them any good anymore – it’s preventing them from getting a job and from moving forward in their lives. I believe the DA’s office has to have the courage to start taking these cases to the judge and making the case that their probation should be ended immediately. And it would not require much additional staffing – probably three attorneys to review the cases.” O’Neill’s other main policy focus – reducing gun violence – stems from his years in the DAO’s homicide unit. It also provides a clear opportunity for him to separate himself from an increasingly indistinguishable set of positions from other candidates. Even

when he wasn’t planning to run, he said, he was amazed by their lack of focus on the issue, which he said results in 1,000 deaths in the city each year. To combat the epidemic, O’Neill would return to what he knows best: DAO programs that have already proven successful, like Focused Deterrence and Gun Stats. “These programs seem expensive at first, but it just needs to be argued better to City Hall that you save a lot more keeping people out of jail, from being shot and being murdered, than by keeping them in jail at $43,000 per person per year,” he enthused. “The Focused Deterrence program, which worked wonders in South Philadelphia – it reduced gun-related homicides 70% – is a program we can expand to every neighborhood in Philadelphia. The problem is that many of the candidates running haven’t worked in the DA’s office, or haven’t worked in the DA’s office recently. They just don’t know about this program, how it works, how effective it can be and how it can be implemented in other neighborhoods. “We have a way to save kids from being shot in drastic numbers and we’re

not doing anything about it,” he added with evident frustration. “What separates me from everyone else is, I know how to do this.” There is no doubt that O’Neill loved working at the DAO, something that was reinforced every time he spoke in the present tense about his former job. And it’s that sense of identification and desire to serve that compelled him to enter the race. But it also begs the question: Why would someone who still has such a deep affinity for his former employer – so much so that he would risk his and his family’s livelihood to try to take over its top spot – why would he leave after a decade? While he never got into the specifics of his departure, it was obvious by the way his normally unruffled speech became halting. “I left because of a lot of things that were going on in the office,” he explained. “I felt like it had become very difficult for me to accomplish things the way I had for the last 10 years. I felt like ultimately, I needed to leave the office to do the good I wanted to do. It was a very difficult choice, because for most of my life, I wanted to be a prosecutor in the DA’s office.”

Although he wouldn’t go into detail about his departure, he emphasized that his own experience would make him the best choice to lead an office that has been subject to demoralizing attacks for the better part of a year. “The morale is unquestionably very low,” he said. When this campaign became about attacking the district attorneys, it did even worse things for their morale. These SVU ADAs handle six or more sexual-assault cases a week. There are people who have been there for decades handling homicides. They take it personally – they feel like politics and politicians have turned on the office and attacked them. “It’s one of the reasons I feel I’m the right candidate. I’m still a DA. I’m not someone who’s spent his or her life attacking the DA’s office. I’m not someone who hasn’t spent his or her life as a prosecutor, or who was a prosecutor so long ago that no one could remember them. I’m still a DA. I’m one of them. I know what they go through, and I know what their motivations are. And as DA, I would be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with them to take back the ground lost.”

LABOR SEDER HELD

YNNE FOX, chair of the Philadelphia Jewish Labor Committee, honored the spirit of resistance at its annual Labor Seder last night at Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel. Honored at the Seder were: Rev. Gregory Holston, executive director of POWER Philadelphia and Senior Pastor of New Vision United Methodist Church; Imam Kenneth Nuriddin, of Philadelphia Masjid;

Gabe Morgan, VP of Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ; Cathryn Miller-Wilson, executive director of HIAS Pennsylvania; and Rabbi Yosef Goldman, of Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel. PJLC’s annual Passover celebration has been renamed as the PJLC Bobbi Willig Labor Seder, in honor of longtime PLCB board member Barbara (“Bobbi”) Willig, who organized the

event for many years and who died in January. Fox said Wednesday’s program also acknowledged John Dougherty, business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 98, for his and his union’s solidarity with the Jewish community, particularly in the last several months as synagogues, schools, community centers and cemeteries have come under attack.

understanding BANKRUPTCY BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED UESTION: Should I pay for someone to help me with credit repair after bankruptcy? Answer: After successfully filing for bankruptcy, it is important for a person to begin rebuilding his or her credit. While it may be tempting to reach out to a credit-repair services, often it can be just as beneficial, and less expensive, to rebuild one’s credit on one’s own. Normally, it works wonders to sign up for a secured credit card and make payments on time. Even with impaired credit after emerg-

ing from bankruptcy, a secured credit card is almost always obtainable. The reason for that is that there is very little default risk for the creditor, i.e., they can take the cash security if you fail to pay. For example, if you put down $1,000 on a secured card, you can use the card for up to that $1,000 limit. After some months of maintaining on-time payments, your credit improves, especially with the bankruptcy having wiped out past balances and default activity receding further into the past for credit scoring purposes. These improvements in credit often make obtaining a traditional, though low-limit, credit card possible rather quickly. At this point, the process is one of rinse and repeat. In other words, if you continue making on-time payments with the traditional credit card, in time, your credit will improve even more, putting you in a position to get car loans, mortgages and other forms of credit on normal market terms. Next Week’s Question: How to value assets in bankruptcy?

tant to State Sen. Sharif STREET. The press has attacked the ward leader-committeeperson concept. But nowadays these public servants include CEOs, professors and lawyers. A recent article on the 197th Special Election seems to say nothing about it was fair and square. Is this CRYBABY CHATTER?

Losing candidates are usually vocal; but the press can amplify. I found no HARD EVIDENCE in the story. Judge Gwendolyn BRIGHT deftly ruled in the MSGR. LYNN matter. The Monsignor has served adequate time. And the FUROR of the issue may have subsided for fair review. This week’s revelation from The Economist is time-

ly as hot weather approach- 11 es. Two scientists at the University of Colorado have invented a film that cools buildings without the use of refrigerants! It can be made for just 50 cents a square meter (10.76 SQUARE FEET). Twenty square meters of this film on a house could cool it to 41 degrees when it is 80 degrees out. T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D

FISH FRY. Hope there is one soon, Greg. The CITY COMMISSIONERS have been sued by the COMMITTEE OF SEVENTY. Ho hum. Zzzzzzz. Met two fine public servants last week: Delores DANDRIDGE, Ward Chairperson of the Dems in the 15th Ward, and Lateefah SHAKIR, Executive Assis-

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(Cont. From Page 9) to deal with it, including persons who can handle social media. Journalists should offer support to a colleague under attack. But what is meant by “harassment”? A post on social media or an email to a writer on a story is NOT ALLOWED within the borders

of the USA? The reply to this may be President TRUMAN’S line: If you can’t stand the heat, GET OUT OF THE KITCHEN. Remember, readers plunk down the cash to buy a paper, and patronize advertisers. Journalists should NEVER think themselves SUPERIOR to the readers. True that there is little smoke in today’s kitchens. There is, though, when 60th Ward Leader Greg SPEARMAN cooks for a

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EVERYDAY PEOPLE

(Cont. From Page 9) in the District Attorney’s office until 2003. Then, Williams announced he was running for DA in 2005. Against Abraham. Announced it at the going-away party he invited her to. A gutsy move, but not a smart one.

ELEPHANT CORNER

While this suit probably won’t go very far, because Williams can use Kane as precedent, it’s yet another complication in an already far-too-complicated case. But since it seems to be a place where the unapologetically petty seem to wind up, I’m afraid to see what shenanigans lie ahead when the new district attorney takes office in January.

not impose these views on his students. I have heard chilling stories of ultra-liberal professors shutting down discussions when more-conservative students do not agree with them. I hope Ciccariello’s political opinions do not influence his grading of his students. I am an adjunct professor and endeavor not to give even a hint of my political opinions. I hope I am successful. I think it is important not to teach students

what to think, but how to analytically look at data. Recently I was asked to give a separate evaluation of any ROTC students in my class. I asked students to see me after class to tell me if they were in ROTC. I did not want to subject any student to ridicule by ultra-liberals in the class. Also, I wanted to avoid forming any negative reaction on my part of any student who was visibly critical of the military. I had only one student in ROTC and, to his credit, he raised his hand when I asked. I saw no negative looks from his fellow students. This confirmed for me my suspicion the condescending intolerance of liberals on campuses is spurred on by misguided faculty who do not understand that putting forth their liberal agendas (what to think) is the same as teaching college students how to think.

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(Cont. From Page 9) him. I’m trying not to vomit or yell about Mosul.” Last year, Ciccariello made headlines by calling for a “white genocide” for Christmas. While I defend his 1st Amendment right to say what he wants, he is a professor and I would hope that he acquires a filter. I hope his superiors at Drexel ensure that he does

He lost in 2005. But in 2009 he won, mostly because Abraham decided not to run for re-election. But Abraham never forgot. And because she’s petty, she waited for her moment, a moment Williams gave her when he got indicted on 32 counts, including charges he stole more than $20,000 from his ailing mother.

City of Philadelphia Public Hearing Notice

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The Committee on the Environment of the Council of the City of Philadelphia will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, April 17, 2017, at 1:00 PM, in Room 400, City Hall, to hear testimony on the following item: 161075

Resolution authorizing the Committee on the Environment to hold hearings regarding adoption and achievement of a “zero waste” goal for the City of Philadelphia.

Immediately following the public hearing, a meeting of the Committee on the Environment, open to the public, will be held to consider the action to be taken on the above listed item. Copies of the foregoing item are available in the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Council, Room 402, City Hall. Michael Decker Chief Clerk

(Cont. From page 8) A Rhynhart victory would be a big win for Mayor Jim Kenney, in whose administration she served as his chief administrative officer, and before that as city treasurer and budget director under Mayor Michael Nutter. Like others in these campaigns, she is seeking the progressive voters. What they may not realize is the almost unanimous agreement of organized labor behind Butkovitz provides him with a huge amount of additional election-day workers, all wearing his name and number; several phone banks; and sizable financial support as well. AFL-CIO President Pat Eiding noted at the endorsement announcement that Butkovitz always leveled the playing field for union workers in situations where labor’s interests were in contention by the city. The Philadelphia AFL-CIO also endorsed other offices: For District Attorney: No Endorsement For Judge of the Court of Common Pleas: Stella Tsai, Mark Cohen, Daniel Sulman, Leon Goodman, Deborah Canty, Dawn Tancredi, Wendi Barish, Zac Shaffer, Vincent Melchiorre, David Conroy, Lucretia Clemons

TO HONOR FALLEN HEROES

WARRIORS who have died in the ongoing conflicts overseas since 2001 deserve a monument, says a group called “Global War on Terror Memorial of Penna.” Meeting at Bochetto & Lentz law office in Center City were, L-R, Capt. Dave Henderson, Bryan Lentz, Veterans Multi-Service Center Development Dir. Debby Derricks, Paul Fischer, Councilman Mark Squilla and Judge Pat Dugan.

COUNCILMAN Mark Squilla holds up a T-shirt that promotes the GWOT cause. Looking at a site near other war memorials at Front & Spruce Streets, the group aims to complete fundraising and install a monument by year’s end.

STATE SEN. Williams was joined by his mother and inspiration, Carol Williams Green. Photo by Wendell Douglas

COUNCILWOMAN Bass introduced the rising generation to the party, in the form of her daughter Carter Bass. Photo by Wendell Douglas

STRAIGHT AND NARROW COUNCILWOMAN Cherelle Parker ran a workshop on combatting recidivism at St. James United Methodist Church. Flanking Parker are, L, the church’s Developments Dir. Frances Legarreta and Parker’s counsel on housing and zoning, Hilary Everson. Photo by Wendell Douglas

HAPPY B’DAY, STREET

STATE SEN. Sharif Street was congratulated at a birthday celebration marking his 43rd by DA candidate Judge Teresa Carr Deni. Street’s stepfather and Mother, Helen, join in the gala. Photos by Joe Stivala

For Judge of the Municipal Court: Marissa Brumbach, George Twardy, Jr., Sherman Toppin. The following candidates were recommended to the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO for endorsement: For Justice of the Supreme Court: Dwayne Woodruff; For Judge of the Superior Court: Carolyn Nichols, Maria McLaughlin; For Judge of the Commonwealth Court: Ellen Ceisler, Todd Eagen.

MASSIVE overflow of attendees enjoyed State Sen. Sharif Street’s birthday gala at Ms. Tootsie’s on South Street. Cheering his future are Latefah Shakir, executive assistant; Helen, mother with stepfather; Jimmy Harrity, aide-de-camp; Sheriff Jewell Williams; Street with wife April; Councilman Kenyatta Johnson; State Sen. Vincent Hughes; and Kevin Greenberg, emcee.

DOWN GO SCHOOL WALLS

COUNCIL President Darrell Clarke renders the first blow to walls at Murrell Dobbins CTE High School to begin a $39 million extreme school makeover. He gets the go-ahead from Mayor Jim Kenney as School Superintendent Dr. William Hite looks on. Photo by Leona Dixon

JUDGE Stella Tsai and former State Rep. Mark Cohen, both on the judicial ballot this primary, share a happy moment with retired State Sen. Shirley Kitchen, who groomed Street for her seat. POLITICAL consultants and candidates for judgeships were on hand for the Street birthday; they included Bernard Lopez with candidate Shanese Johnson as Dwayne Lily chats with Wendy Barish.

STATE SEN. Sharif Street, with key aide James Harrity, 3rd from L, and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, thanked the overflow attendees for their participation. Judicial candidates attending were Vikki Kristiansson, Todd Eagen (for Commonwealth Court), Marissa Brumbach and Len Deutchman.

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POLS on the STREET

THE EVENT, called “Woman Up,” included, L-R, Councilwoman Cindy Bass, activist Dawn Chavous, Anita Lewis, State Sen. Anthony Williams (whose wife Shari was an organizer of the affair), Miss Phila Nia Andrews and State Rep. Joanna McClinton. Photo by Wendell Douglas

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WOMEN’S History Month was commemorated at Belmont Mansion by the American Women’s Heritage Society. Scores of socialites turned out for a tea party there. Photo by Leona Dixon

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‘WOMAN UP’ MARKS HISTORY

CRUZ ‘KEYS’ SRS.

P.H.A. BREAKS GROUND A RANK of dignitaries dug their shovels into the site of Phila. Housing Authority’s 55-unit Strawberry Mansion Apartments project at 33rd & Somerset Streets. Photos by Wendell Douglas

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PHA CEO Kelvin Jeremiah hailed the development as a boost to Strawberry Mansion as Congressman Dwight Evans listens.

STATE REP. Angel Cruz invited seniors in his Kensington district to apply for new SEPTA Key Cards at his office. Photo by Wendell Douglas

CEPHAS OPENS OFFICE

L-R AT the g r o u n d breaking were State Rep. Donna Bullock, Gov. Tom Wolf and City Council President D a r r e l l Clarke.

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STATE REP. Morgan Cephas, C, welcomed her constituents to her new office at 5921 Lancaster Avenue. Photo by Wendell Douglas

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MARK your CALENDAR (Cont. Form Page 7) Melissa@RittenhousePolitical.com, (215) 2510585. Apr. 9- All-Star Labor Classic is held at Phila. U., 4100 Henry Ave., 10:30 a.m. 10 young basketball stars who each scored 1,000+ points in high school. Benefits cerebral palsy. Apr. 10- Mayor Jim Kenney and Congressman Bob Brady unveil POW/MIA National Chair of Honor at City Hall, Mayor’s Reception Rm., 11 a.m. Apr. 11- State Rep. Angel Cruz discusses remedies to Air Bridge crisis sending

addicts from Puerto Rico to Phila., City Hall Mayor’s Reception Rm. 202. Apr. 12- Judge Dan Sulman is hosted Fundraiser at 1518 Bar & Grill, 1518 Sansom St., 5 p.m. Guests $50 up. Payable to “Committee to Elect Dan Sulman,” 1500 Walnut St., Su. 2000, Phila., PA 19102. Apr. 13- Lawrence Bozzelli is hosted Fundraiser at New Wave Café,3rd & Catharine Sts., 5:30-7:30 p.m. For info”: (267) 2517822. Apr. 13- Lindy Li hosts Reception for state judicial candidate Todd Eagen at Parc Rittenhouse, 228 S. 18th St., 6-8 p.m. Special guest Attorney General Josh Shapiro. Contribution levels Hosts $5,000, CoHosts $2,500, Sponsors $1,500, Donors $1,000, Supporters $500, Friends $250. RSVP: Seth Skversky (267) 815-1962 or seth@toddeagen.com. Apr. 13- John McNesby hosts Fundraiser for Judge Vince Furlong at FOP Ha., 11630 Caroline Rd., 6-9 p.m. $50 for Individual

GOV. TOM WOLF dons a “Make Strawberry Mansion Great Again” cap.

Tickets. Sponsorships available. Payable to “Judge Furlong Election Committee.” For info and RSVP: (267) 571-5328 or info@electjudgefurlong.com. Apr. 14- St. John the Evangelist hosts Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) at 21 S. 13th St., Upper Ch., 4-5 p.m. Apr. 14- Judicial candidate Deborah Canty is hosted Fish Fry Fundraiser at Circles Lounge, 4800 N. Broad St., 5-9 p.m. Donation $15. For info: Cynthia Hayward or Pam Jones (267) 225-7902. Apr. 15- State Rep. Morgan Cephas hosts Youth Summer Employment Information Session at Rose Plg., 1300 N. 75th St., 10 a.m.-12 m. To register: (215) 879-6625. Apr. 15- United Block Captains hosts Investiture for all block captains at Drexel U., Bossone Bldg., 32nd & Market Sts., 12-3 p.m. First 100 receive Key to the City! Must bring official card. RSVP by Apr. 7: (215) 309-5754. Apr. 15- Ducky Birts Foundation hosts Awards at 1st

Dist. Plaza, 3801 Market St., 12 m. For info & tickets: (215) 242-1220 or (215) 248-4765. Apr. 17- Easter Monday Dyngus Day Festivities at Polish Eagles Sports Cl.,, 3157 E. Thompson St., 3-8 p.m. Tickets $10, children under 12 free. Apr. 17- 65th Ward Democratic Committee meets at Ashburner Inn, 8400 Torresdale Ave., 7 p.m. All candidates invited. For info: John (267) 3343775 or Colleen (215) 500-0617. Apr. 19- 8th Ward Democratic Committee hosts Spring Fundraiser at Vesper, 223 S. Sydenham St., 6-8 .pm. Sponsorships: Gold $750, Bronze $150, General Admission $50. RSVP: benwaxman@gmail. com by Apr. 12. Apr. 20- City Commissioner Al Schmidt hosts Fundraiser at Grey Lodge Pub, 6235 Frankford Ave., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Apr. 20- State Sen. Art Haywood hosts “State of the State town-hall meeting at Emanuel Rec Ctr., 8500

Pickering Ave., 7-8:30 p.m. For info: Michelle Welk (215) 242-8171 Apr. 21- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and S.W. Phila. Dist. Services host Candidates Night at Kingsessing Rec Ctr., 50th St. & Kingsessing Ave., 6:308:30 p.m. Free dinner. All candidates invited to attend and can speak in order of attendance. Apr. 22- Sky Community Partners hosts 5K Pt. Breeze Walk & Run at Wharton Sq. Pk., 2300 Wharton Ave., Registration 7:30 a.m., ceremony 8:15 a.m. Join many civic leaders. For info: info@skycommunitypartners.com. Apr. 26- Phila. Democratic Progressive Committee hosts Candidates Night at Kingsessing Free Lib., 1201 S. 51st St., 6-8 p.m. Apr. 27- Green Party of Phila. holds Membership Mtg. at Shissler Rec, 1800 Blair St., 7 p.m. Apr. 26- Councilman Mark Squilla hosts NFL Draft Party at Prime Stache Restaurant, 220 S. Broad St., 6-9 p.m. Special

guests, signed Eagles gear. Hail Mary Pass $2,500, Touchdown $1,000, Field Goal $500, General Admission $100. Payable to “Squilla for Council,” P.O. Box 37332, Phila., PA 19148. RSVP: Brittany@ lperrygroup.com. For info: (215) 893-4281. Apr. 27- Committee to Reelect Rep. John Taylor hosts annual Historical Site Cigar & Wine Tasting at Colonial Dames of Phila., 1630 Latimer St., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets $250. Sponsorships available. Apr. 27- State Rep. Stephen Kinsey hosts “State of the State” town hall mtg. at 2nd Macedonia Bapt. Ch., 1301 W. Ruscomb St., 6-8 p.m. State & city elected officials & administrators. For info: (215) 849-6592. Apr. 29- United Voices for Phila. hosts DA Candidates Forum at CCP, 1700 Spring Garden St., 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Apr. 29- DA Candidates Forum is held at CCP, 1600 Spring Garden St., 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

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CITY HALL SAM (Cont. From Page 9) the ranking member of the Military Construction Subcommittee. The Philadelphia Inquirer seems to be falling in love with Dent because he is “moderate.” This just means once in a while he does not vote with the John Birch Society. Being moderate makes all the sense in the world for getting re-elected because he’s from the Lehigh Valley. The Inquirer has also mentioned Dent as a potential gubernatorial candidate. Let’s see if he has the stomach to go up against York County rich guy STATE SEN. SCOTT WAGNER. Wagner is the fellow who taught DONALD TRUMP how to be Donald Trump. It played well in Pennsylvania in the last presidential election, but let’s see if that act is wearing thin. Sam must report an error in last week’s column. GEORGE TWARDY is not a judge, although he hopes to become one. And he is running as a Democrat.

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