Vol. XIII No. 27
Issue 910
July 6, 2017
“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”
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WE WON AGAIN!
WAWA WELCOME AMERICA! MADE PHILADELPHIA A WINNER AS CROWDS FLOCKED FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO SEE US CELEBRATE OUR HISTORY. PHOTO BY WENDELL DOUGLAS
SETH’S
BUDGET’S
OUT
DONE
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P. 4
JU LY 6, 2017
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WHO’S TO FILL SETH’S SHOES?
BY RYAN BRIGGS ISTRICT ATTORNEY Seth Williams has taken a stunning mid-trial plea deal on a single corruption count and now faces up to five years in prison. Last Thursday morning’s plea, which was made in tandem with Williams’ immediate resignation as the city’s top law enforcement official, ends a years-long saga that covered wild campaign spending and charges of influence-peddling. But the city must now grapple with the ramifications of a DA abruptly leaving office. Williams’s sudden departure has triggered an unusual judicial appointment process to select a successor. “It hasn’t happened since
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1991,” said campaign lawyer Adam Bonin, referring to one-time Court of Common Pleas Judge Lynne Abraham’s appointment after then-DA Ron Castille resigned to run for mayor. “Basically, the statute says the judges of the Court of Common Pleas will convene and appoint a ‘competent person.’” On paper, the 80-member “Board of Judges” will convene, review applicants and ultimately vote to appoint a successor to fill out the remainder of Williams’ term. But which candidates appear before the board is an open-ended question. Although extremely unlikely, even primary favorites like Larry Krasner, a Democrat and longtime defense at-
FORMER Philadelphia DA Seth Williams speaking to the media in 2012. Photo by Mitchell Leff, City of Philadelphia
torney, or Beth Grossman, a Republican and former ADA, could theoretically submit applications. Another possibility is that Kathleen Martin, the former chief of staff who is acting as interim DA, could remain in the post until the new DA takes office “There’s nothing in the
Tucker, Dan McCaffery and Ben Lerner had all squeezed Congressman and Democratic Party kingpin Bob Brady for his support in replacing Williams via appointment. That was before Williams had been indicted by federal prosecutors or even announced he would not seek reelection.
P.A.L. CENTERS SEE LONGER SUMMER HOURS
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O PROVIDE Philadelphia’s youth with safe alternatives to the streets this summer, the Philadelphia Police Department and the Police Athletic League will extend Friday hours at nine PAL centers, and open those centers on Saturdays throughout the summer. Currently, 18 PAL centers, staffed by specially trained Philadelphia Police officers,
serve more than 17,000 youth annually. The officers are supported by civilians and volunteers, enabling PAL to offer sports, educational and cultural programs in some of the city’s highest-crime and lowest-income neighborhoods. Traditionally, the centers are open 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday during the school year, and 9 a.m.5 p.m. Monday-Friday in
summer months. This summer initiative will see nine PAL Centers remaining open from 5-9 p.m. Friday evenings, and 1-9 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 26. As PAL Commanding Officer, Lt. Evelyn Cintron, explains, “Extending the hours of operation for the designated sites is in furtherance of our core mission to provide a safe and productive environment for children, while
SHERIFF NABS 34 IN RAIDS
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statute about an interview process or self-nomination. The process of presenting candidates is really up to President Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper,” Bonin said. Woods-Skipper did not immediately return a call for comment. In February, City&State PA reported Judges Leon
he Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office arrested 34 men and women wanted on serious offenses, including a man with three violations of probation – one for murder – in a citywide raid in the early hours of July 1. “We took many violent offenders off the streets of Philadelphia during this surprise search for wanted criminals,” said Jewell Williams, sheriff of the City & County of Philadelphia.
“Many of those captured had several outstanding warrants against them on charges that ranged from murder, failure to pay child support – one who owed in excess of $85,000 – assault, endangering the welfare of a minor, witness intimidations and unlawful contact with a minor.” Officers from the Philadelphia Police Department assisted in this team sweep. The men and women of the Sheriff’s Office are
charged with protecting all members of the community and visitors to the city and quelling future violence. “As a parent, I’m especially concerned for the families that suffer when one or more members of a household are cited for domestic abuse, creating a violent and hostile environment,” said Williams. “I say to all; hold your tempers, lay down your arms, and protect your loved ones for a summer of peace.”
continuing to teach life skills through athletics.” PAL’s standard hours of operation are designed to offer out-of-school time opportunities for children and follow the School District of Philadelphia’s academic calendar. When the school year ends, PAL shifts
to daytime programming, with most activities (such as golf, tennis and baseball) occurring away from the PAL Centers. Through this initiative, nine PAL Centers each will offer upwards of 120 additional hours of programming. The nine designated PAL centers are:
PAL Center
Owner
25th District PAL Center
Salvation Army
Harrowgate PAL Center
City
23rd PAL Center
Department of Recreation
Fairhill PAL Center
Hope Partnership for Education
Cozen PAL Center
PAL
Paley PAL Center
PAL
Logan PAL
Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church
Ford PAL Center
City
Southwest PAL Center
City
Tacony PAL Center
St. Bernard’s
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Editor: Greg Salisbury Executive Editor: James Tayoun, Sr. Managing Editor: Anthony West Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Everyday People Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Correspondent: Eldon Graham Photographers: Leona Dixon Wendell Douglas Harry Leech Bill Myers Office Manager: Allison Murphy Production Manager: Sana Muaddi-Dows Sales Director: Melissa Barrett Account Exec: Bill Myers Circulation: Steve Marsico Dawood Starling Yousef Maaddi James Henderson The Public Record welcomes news and photographs about your accomplishments and achievements which should be shared with the rest of the community. Contact us by phone, fax, e-mail or by dropping us a note in the mail. If you mail a news item, please include your name, address and daytime telephone number so we can verify the information you provided us, if necessary. The Public Record reserves the right to edit all news items and letters for grammar, clarity and brevity. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. City & State will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public. The Philadelphia Public Record is a publication owned by:
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KIDS WHO normally rely on the school-lunch program can still find nutritious meals through the Summer Food Service Program run by the Philadelphia Housing Authority. Children who do not live near a participating PHA site can still go to a neighboring site or one of 150 sites operated by the Department of Parks & Recreation, which will offer similar meals.
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ANY Philadelphia Housing Authority residents who rely on the school-lunch program need not go hungry over the summer. PHA will once again offer breakfast and lunch, in addition to comprehensive summer youth-enrichment activities, through its Summer Food Service Program, which began on June 26 and runs until Aug. 25. “Many families in Philadelphia depend upon this program,” said PHA President & CEO Kelvin Jeremiah. “Our young people have to have access to good, nutritional meals to stay healthy, and learn new skills.” The housing authority plans to host the program at the following sites this year: Abbottsford Homes, Arch Homes, Bartram Village, Cambridge/John F. Street Center, Champlost, Fairhill, Haddington Homes, Harrison Plaza, Hill Creek,
Johnson Homes, Morton Homes, Norris Apartments, Oxford Village, Paschall Village, Raymond Rosen, Spring Garden, West Park Apartments, Whitehall and Wilson Park. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The agency’s Community Operations & Resident Development department manages this highly successful program, which provides young people with access to good, nutritional meals. Last year, SFSP provided over 59,000 meals to youths ages 3 to 18 from public housing sites and the surrounding neighborhoods. The program also provides 40 part-time jobs for PHA and local residents. PHA is one of several sponsors of the program in the city, which provides breakfast and lunch. Children who do not live near a participating PHA site can still go to a neighboring site or one of 150 sites operated
by the City’s Department of Parks & Recreation, which will offer similar meals. PHA sponsors the program with a contribution of its own funds to the program this year. Last year, the agency put in $350,000; the amount varies depending upon the level of state subsidy. Residents, including those who were formerly served at Blumberg and Queen Lane Apartments, can go online to the USDA website at www.fns.usda. gov/summerfoodrocks to locate the Summer Food locations closest to them. Residents can also look for the site nearest to them at www.phila.gov/youthprograms/meals/Pages/default.aspx, www.hungercoalition.org/summermeals, or by texting “FOOD” or “MEALPA” to 877-877, or calling 1 (855) 252-MEAL. For more information about participating in PHA’s Summer Food Service Program, call (215) 684-3959.
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.
This report is courtesy of Larry Levin, Coldwell Banker Preferred. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2014
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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.
JU LY 6, 2017
Philly Home Up for Sale
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P.H.A.’S SUMMER FOOD 7 Things You Must Know PROGRAM UNDER WAY Before Putting Your
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PA. BUDGET DONE (THE EASY PART, AT LEAST)
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POLS on the STREET BY JOE SHAHEELI UST IN time for the summer break, the Pennsylvania Senate passed a $31.99 billion spending budget for Fiscal Year 2017-18. It reflected a willingness on the part of both the Republican-controlled General Assembly and Gov. Tom Wolf’s Democratic administration to avoid painful cuts to core
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Representative JU LY 6, 2017
Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District
constituencies’ favored programs. State Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-W. Phila.), the Democratic chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, set the tone for the Democrats’ victory lap. “This budget is the result of a concerted effort to move Pennsylvania forward thoughtfully and responsibly,” said Hughes. “Given today’s economic and political environment, we decided to work together to get something positive done.” Hughes said the budget plan, which the Senate approved by a 43-7 vote, steered closer to Wolf’s initial budget proposal and reversed draconian cuts that were proposed during the budget negotiation process. “The governor proposed an austere budget that was modest and it attempted to address our social and poState Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131 (215) 879-6615
215-271-9190
Always Hard At Work for You!
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State Senator
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
“Paid for with Pennsylvanian taxpayer dollars”
litical reality. Throughout the budget process, we had significant conversations with all parties to get us to a point where we came close to the governor’s proposal,” Hughes said. “We restored cuts made in the House Republican plan, we were thoughtful about how we restructure government and we presented a foundation for the future.” The FY 2017-18 state budget invests an additional $100 million in basic education, which almost fully restores the cuts to education under Gov. Tom Corbett’s administration, as well as $25 million for special education, $25 million for Pre-k, $5 million for Head Start, $11 million for Early Intervention and $8.9 million for higher education. The budget also invests in the economy by supporting state programs that focus on job creation, economic development and the agricultural industry. The spending plan paves the way to merge the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Department
ROEBUCK SIDES WITH ANIMALS
STATE REP. Jim Roebuck met with, L-R, Joan Smith-Reese, executive director of Animal Care Sanctuary, and Rachel Rossiter, canine director, prior to attending the animal-rights bill-signing with Gov. Tom Wolf. ACS is celebrating its 50th anniversary as one of the largest and oldest no-kill shelters in America. Photo by Bonnie Squires
of Human Services, as well as merge the Department of Corrections and Board of Probation & Parole — a plan spearheaded by the Senate Democrats. The consolidations will save taxpayer dollars and streamline services for our most vulnerable citizens. It also continues to address the opioid epidemic through additional investments in drug and alcohol programs. Hughes’ Republican counterpart, Appropriations
State Rep. Jason
Committee Chair State Sen. Pat Browne (R-Lehigh), said, “In recognizing the financial challenges the Commonwealth continues to face, this budget provides a fiscally responsible spending plan with a modest increase in funding for vital state programs and services, while still protecting hard-working individuals and job creators from onerous tax increases. This budget also continues the state’s dedication to providCity 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
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
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
Greenlee
Kevin J.
Youngblood
Taylor
Donatucci
Councilman Wm.
State Rep.
Rep. Rosita
State Rep.
Rep.Maria P.
ing a quality education for all Pennsylvania students as it increases funding for basic education, special education, early childhood education and early intervention to unprecedented levels.” Regardless of party, local governments were relieved by the deal. The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, representing all 67 counties in the commonwealth, issued a statement that “the (Cont. Page 5)
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
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BASS TAKES ON STOP-AND-GO BIZ
FIGHTING illegal stop-and-go retailers in her Northwest Philadelphia district, Councilwoman Cindy Bass led a band of 30 volunteers to enter suspect establishments to find out if they offered seating and tables for 30 restaurant patrons, as required by law. Many, she found, could not – yet were freely selling takeout alcohol regardless. Photo by Wendell Douglas
ecutive Director Nathan Mains. “We are pleased that in the face of many other budget challenges, the General Assembly has seen the value in making school funding a priority.” Those will be sweet words to incumbents seeking re-election next year. Environmentalists did not applaud the outcome. The Sierra Club PA Chapter, PennFuture, Conservation Voters of PA and Natural Resources Defense Council issued a joint communiqué decrying “a spending package that threatens our environment, natural resources, and public health by slashing funding and continuing a decade-long evisceration of key agencies.” “No citizen in Pennsylvania voted for a platform of closing state park beaches or campgrounds and making our water less safe, but
that’s what the legislature just delivered in this budget,” said Josh McNeil of Conservation Voters of PA. “Making these cuts to our environmental agencies without creating a severance tax on gas drillers should be a major black mark on the record of those who supported this bill.” Service Employees International Union State Council President Gabe Morgan, a fiercely progressive advocate, acknowledged, “There are many things in the final product to be happy about.” But Morgan skewered the deal with a tart criticism: “There is still no agreement on how to pay for this budget. Legislative leaders want to balance the books by taking on new debt and mortgaging our children’s future, a solution that will do nothing to pull Pennsylvania off the loop of fiscal insanity.” (Cont. Page 6)
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(Cont. From Page 4) approved funding will enable counties to maintain investments in successful criminal justice system reforms and to provide human services programs in the face of increasing caseloads. The quick action on the agreement, in advance of the fiscal year deadline, also provides funding certainty for counties, which are in the middle of their calendar-base fiscal years. “Counties are truly grateful for the work of leadership and members in all caucuses to address the needs of counties and their mutual constituents, and look forward to continued discussions about the state/ county partnership in delivering core government services.” The Pennsylvania School Boards Association said it was “pleased that Gov. Tom Wolf’s original $100 million increase in Basic Education Funding and $25 million increase in special-education funding have been preserved in the state budget currently going to his desk. “We are sympathetic to the difficult financial situation Pennsylvania faces, but strongly believe investments in our children’s education pay dividends now and into the future,” said PSBA Ex-
JU LY 6, 2017
BUDGET DEAL REACHED
TORAH GIVEN TO N.Y.C.
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A 170-YEAR-OLD Torah, foreground, was passed to the 911 Unit New York City Fire Department from the Chapel of Four Chaplains. Rabbi Joseph Patasnick, Fire Department chaplain, L, accepted the Torah. Others present were Albert El; Board Member Charles Kahn; Capt. Louis Cavaliere, Chapel president; Lynn Chickering; Jon Peterson; Michael Stelacio; Christine Beatty, executive director; Mischelle Nolfi; Tom Shallow; Donald Greenbaum; Ernie Gross; Deputy Fire Commissioner Craig Murphy; Harold Fisher; New York Supreme Court Justice Kathleen Levin; and Dr. Richard Dennison. Photo by Joe Stivala
JU LY 6, 2017
POLS ON THE STREET (Cont. From Page 5) Morgan’s charge is correct. A budget that omits how to pay for the things it plans to buy is kind of like a one-sided coin – not a real financial instrument at all.
KRASNER WINS D.C. 47 NOD
Nobody expected Dem-
ocratic nominee for Philadelphia district attorney, career defense lawyer Larry Krasner, to gain the backing of the Fraternal Order of Police Local 5, and he didn’t. But he has secured the endorsement of another key public union: AFSCME District Council 47. DC 47 has many members who work in public safety, including fire, prisons, and other major city departments.
DC 47 President Fred Wright said. “We know Larry will fight for the people and ensure the criminal-justice system works for all Philadelphians. I know Larry will be the responsible steward of the public trust that we need. The brothers and sisters of AFSCME DC 47 will be working to ensure Larry Krasner gets elected on Nov. 7.”
TOOMEY B.C.R.A. STAND HIT BY ROW OFFICERS
State Treasurer Joe Torsella and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, popular Democrats with fiscal expertise, have entered the fray in Washington over the Republicans’ Better Care Reconciliation Act, which is intended to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act. US Sen. Pat Toomey (RPa.) has been a prime mover of this legislation and is adamant that “Obamacare” is fiscally unstable. But the Republicans’ alternative has proved to be politically unstable, as their own Senate caucus cannot agree on it. Torsella and DePasquale shot off a letter to Toomey charging BCRA would (Cont. Page 8)
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TRUMP ISSUES ARE KEY TO KEYSTONE STATE ’18
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UMMER marks the season when most normal people are planning their vacations. At the same time, most political people are planning their next elections. Six months from now, the 2018 midyear primary campaigns will be in launch mode; much of the groundwork will be done after Labor Day. It is mercifully impossible to predict winners at this point, or even a full roster of candidates. But it is safe to state that two related themes will guide both parties’ contests next year: President Donald Trump’s popularity, along with the issues that underlay his surprise victory in 2016. Overall, Pennsylvania is stagnant. The US Census
Bureau estimates the state lost population in July 2016 compared to the year before – something that hadn’t happened since 1985. No one expects a dramatic turnaround when this year’s estimate is released. But the Southeastern and South Central parts of the state are chugging along, showing modest but sustained growth. That means this protracted decline is weighing down its Western and Northern regions. Businesses are closing, young people are leaving. There, a sense of frustration and hopelessness pervades the political air of working-class towns and rural byways. These voters snapped to attention when Trump made his pitch to “make America
great again” while Hillary Clinton ignored them. Pennsylvania’s political class noticed. Expect, then, to see a gubernatorial race in which both incumbent Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf and a flock of Republican hopefuls vie to speak more persuasively to the disaffected voters in the “T.” Many legislative races will follow suit. Jobs will be the core of every campaign boast and pledge. Taxes will be a dirty word, at least those that blue-collar communities experience. But candidates will attack at their peril government programs that benefit aging, lower-income counties. The script is written. All that remains is to plug in the names on the ballot.
MARK your CALENDAR Jul. 8- Congressman Bob Brady hosts Brady Bunch at Flip Flops, 106 W. Spruce Ave., N. Wildwood, N.J., 3-7 p.m. $35. For info: (215) 241-7804. Jul. 9- Councilman Derek Green hosts an Evening of Jazz at the Trolley Car Café, 3269 S. Ferry Rd, 5-7 p.m. Tickets $50, Friends $100, Supporters $250. Donations online at www.dereksgreen.com/ contribute or payable to “The Green Fund,” P.O. Box 4984, Phila., PA 19119. RSVP: Kelly Bauer
kbauerr1122@gmail.com. Jul. 10- Jobs with Justice hosts Solidarity Awards Dinner at NUHHCE Dist. 1199C, 1319 Locust St., 5:30 p.m. Honorees: Congressman Brendan Boyle, Chris Woods, Nijmie Dzurinko, Laura Wentz and Pa. ACLU. Open bar. For info: (2315) 670-5855. Jul. 14- State Rep. John Taylor hosts Friday Night Shore Party at Peggy & Kevin Pasquay’s home, 509 Arctic Ave., N. Cape May, N.J. Donations $125. For info: (215) 545-2244. Jul. 15- State Rep. Emilio Vázquez hosts Community Health & Wellness fair at Fairhill Pk., Lehigh Ave. & 4th St., 11 am.-3 p.m. Children’s activities, food, refreshments, screenings, exercise demonstrations, state agencies. Focus on domestic violence. For info: (215) 457-5281. Jul. 29- State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown hosts Citywide Job Fair at Deliv-
erance Ch. Ha., 2001 W. Lehigh Ave., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Jul. 31- Town Watch Integrated Services hosts Nat’l Night Out S. Phila. Kickoff Rally at Marconi Pk., 1300 Oregon Ave., 4-8 p.m. Aug. 11- Councilman Mark Squilla hosts Summer Soirée at Keenan’s Pub,113 Olde New Jersey Ave., N. Wildwood, N.J., 7-10 p.m. Yachts $5,000, Sailboats $2,500, Paddleboats $1,00,General Admission $250. Payable to “Squilla for Council,” P.O. Box 37332, Phila., PA 19148. RSVP: Brittany@lperrygroup.conm or (215) 893-4281. Aug. 17- State Rep. Emilio Vázquez hosts “Meet, Greet, Obtain Constituent Services” at Susquehanna Village, 1421 W. Susquehanna Ave, 3-4 p.m. Sep. 9- Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 hosts Members’ Picnic at Clementon Pk., Berlin, N.J.
JU LY 6, 2017
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N THIS, the era of both the gig economy and the disgraced politician, there are precious few eyebrows raised at the current search for an interim DA. At first glance, this would seem to be a tough sell. Why would anyone want to come into the position as the city’s top law-enforcement official for a roughly six-month gig where you’re a lame duck the moment you’re selected and approved by the 80-member “Board of Judges” specifically con-
remains to be seen, but the steadying hand of someone with experience both as a manager and in the DAO would no doubt be welcome. Of course, using that metric, the judges already have a qualified candidate – and she has been de facto running the DAO for months. Kathleen Martin, hired by convicted former DA Seth Williams as his chief of staff, has been in charge of operations since Williams ceded day-to-day control to her earlier this year. There is no shortage of names being bandied about right now, including within these very pages. We urge the Board of Judges to select one of those as soon as possible – for the city, for the citizens, for the DAO.
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OPINION
vened for this purpose? And that’s before you walk in the door to deal with hundreds of people shaken by the past and concerned about the future – their own and the future of the District Attorney’s Office. So, we ask, who would want this job? Turns out, at least one person. Reports have linked former US Attorney-turned-Democratic DA candidate Joe Khan to lobbying efforts for the job. As we and everyone else who paid attention to the numerous debates and fora of the campaign can attest, Khan knows what he’s talking about and has plenty of ideas to improve the DAO. Whether or not he can accomplish anything substantive in such a short timeframe
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CHOOSE WISELY
JU LY 6, 2017
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POLS ON THE STREET (Cont. From page 6) “make the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s budget unsustainable. Earlier in June, we sent a letter to the General Assembly and to Gov. Wolf to sound the alarm about the precarious state of Pennsylvania’s General Fund. “The Commonwealth is currently grappling with a $3 billion structural deficit. Additionally, our future projections show that we can expect the General Fund to be in a negative balance for eight consecutive months in the fiscal year that begins July 1,” they added. “We believe it is critical that you and Pennsylvania’s other federal representatives act in the state’s best interests. BCRA would devastate Pennsylvania families by increasing the state’s
structural deficit by up to an additional $3 billion. Passage of the BCRA will necessitate large state tax increases, force hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians off of their health insurance, or some combination of those factors. In addition, the loss of health insurance for constituents in our state will result in job losses in Pennsylvania’s health care industry, further strain families, and drain tax revenue from the state’s already negative General Fund,” they continued. “Quite simply, the path outlined by the bill is fiscally dangerous to the Commonwealth and its residents. We hope that you, as one of our federal representatives, would help our state as we seek to achieve fiscal stability.”
J.W.J. HIRES NEW CHIEF
Philadelphia Area Jobs
with Justice, a progressive coalition of labor unions and student, community and faith groups, will introduce a new executive director, Devan Spear, at its Solidarity Awards Dinner. It marks the end of an era for Gwen Snyder, who has led JwJ for eight years, as it seeks to recruit allies for fair treatment of workers among activists outside the formal labor movement. “Devan has been an active member of and organizer with Philly JwJ for years now, and I couldn’t think of a better person to lead us going forward,” Snyder said. “I can’t wait for you to get introduced – I think she’s phenomenal, and I’m guessing you’ll feel the same way.” Snyder said she will be “moving on to new organizing adventures, but I’m sure I’ll still be seeing you around the city, on picket lines and out protesting corporate greed.”
THE NATURE OF COBBS CREEK COBBS CREEK Environmental Education Center held an open house last Saturday. Welcoming the West Philadelphia community were, L-R, docents Josh Henry and Marcus Baldwin, Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell, docent Leela Hughes, center President George Ambrose, and docents Taylor Adams and Victoria Hughlett. Photos by Wendell Douglas
RETRED science teacher Carole Williams-Green, C, who was the inspiration for the environmental center, was flanked at the open house by her son, State Sen. Anthony Williams, and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell.
START EACH DAY THE INFORMED WAY As an active member of the Pennsylvania political community, we invite you to First Read from City & State PA. Every day we keep you abreast of the top news and trends impacting politics and government, from Philadelphia to Harrisburg to Pittsburgh. To receive your free morning news capsule, go to www.cityandstatepa.com/first-read. You will receive a confirmation email right away.
EVERYDAY PEOPLE BY DENISE CLAY “The saddest thing in life is wasted talent and the choices you make will shape your life forever….” HIS IS A line from the play, “A Bronx Tale,” which later became a movie starring Robert DeNiro and Chazz Palminteri. Palminteri wrote the play, which was about his life in the Bronx; he also did it as a one-man show on Broadway. Since it was announced that District Attorney R. Seth Williams decided to plead guilty to accepting a bribe and resign from his
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also going to have to forfeit $64,000 in gifts as part of his sentence. My guess is $45,000 of that total is comprised of that notorious roof he had put on his home. One of my former classmates from Temple went to Central High School with Williams. He said this wasn’t what he had expected for his former classmate when they were sitting in science class. I’m pretty sure Williams didn’t either. When he was elected in 2009, becoming the city’s first Black district attorney, there was a lot of optimism surrounding Williams. He came in promising a lot of various reforms to the office, focusing on interdiction programs, neighborhood-based prosecutors, and restorative justice programs. And we got some of that. But we also got a stubborn DA who insisted on retrying Anthony Wright for the 1991 rape and murder of Louise Talley despite DNA (Cont. Page 14)
BY JOE SHAY STIVALA ITH THE RESIGNATION OF SETH WILLIAMS, the Board of Judges can appoint an Acting District Attorney. Names are being talked up. But in the wake of the DA Office scandal, a former jurist like THERESA CARR DENI seems an ideal choice. The Board might consider an OVERSEER JUDGE like Gary GLAZER, now doing that job at Traffic Court. There is no longer ANY
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he fall of Philadelphia DA SETH WILLIAMS is a tragedy. He did really innovative things in the DA’s Office, and had a fun and outgoing personality. Such personality is rare in politics these days. But he also appears to have had horrendous financial issues which led him to make terrible decisions. Sadly, many in the media love to gloat at the fall of politicians like Williams. They often lose all restraint and objectivity in their stories and create a shark-infested feeding frenzy where
LAWYERS are obtaining a meager pay raise after 20 years. LONG, LONG OVERDUE. NOW FUND IT! Why ANNOUNCE it without funding in place? Those of you who got an F.B.I. INTERCEPT LETTER during the runup to JULY 4: Did you wonder if it happened in America? Are US citizens NOT ALLOWED to talk to persons under investigation? The letters – dated in May and mailed at the end of June – must have been in a pile until all were addressed. Then they flooded the mails (?). It cost a LOT OF TIME and your MONEY. An article on a leaked warrant in the John DOUGHERTY matter appeared over the holiday weekend. Is it filler material? Is it a year-old story? Is it a HISTORICAL TOUR of PAST events with reporters as DOCENTS? Then there is CUT-and-PASTE reporting that fills column (Cont. Page 14)
they celebrate convictions and indictments. And when a politician is acquitted, such as STATE SEN. LARRY FARNESE, they write no followup story about the miscarriage of justice in forcing that innocent person to go to trial for their life’s career. The FOP demonstrates a very pragmatic approach by endorsing Republican nominee BETH GROSSMAN against certain Democratic victor LARRY KRASNER. John McNesby is the president of the FOP and may have to alter his endorsement. There is actual talk in GOP circles about replacing Grossman and finding a better candidate. Now that Williams has been removed from office, KATHLEEN MARTIN, his first assistant, will take over. But the 80 Common Pleas Court judges could vote to name someone else as acting DA until the election. Interestingly, Martin is married to attorney ROBERT
LEVANT, who represented TYRON ALI. Ali wore a wire to enable several Philadelphia state Reps. to be charged with corruption and tangentially was involved in the KATHLEEN KANE case. The Common Pleas judges could vote to have an established and wellliked politico serve out the remainder of the DA’s term. A sensible pick would be former City CONTROLLER JONATHAN SAIDEL. He has great credibility in the city and would bring stability to the DA’s office. And it’s only for a couple of months. Also campaigning to be interim DA is former DA candidate JOE KHAN. Khan failed in his bid for the Democratic nomination, placing second. However, he was endorsed by former MAYOR and GOV. ED RENDELL. The Inquirer reports both Rendell and Khan have been working (Cont. Page 14)
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office, that line has been stuck in my head, because if you look up “wasted talent” in the dictionary, Williams’s picture will be there. In fact, Judge Paul Diamond wanted that resignation letter in Mayor Jim Kenney’s hands so badly, he had it delivered by courier shortly after he had refused to continue Williams’s bail and had him taken into custody by US Marshals. Williams hasn’t left town. He’s in the isolation unit at the federal prison at 7th & Arch Streets until his Oct. 24 sentencing. This means he’s gone from a lifestyle that included $2,700 dinners at the Union League, deep-tissue massages at the Sporting Club at the Hotel Atop the Bellevue and trips to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to sitting in a cell for 23 hours a day. It’s probably not going to get much better after his sentencing. Williams faces five years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. He’s
WALKING the BEAT
NEED for his presence there. Another choice is Judge Dan McCAFFERY. WHAT ABOUT a MUNICIPAL COURT judge as OVERSEER of the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication at Ninth and Filbert streets? You go there for your parking-ticket hearings. It might be difficult to imagine it as a quasi-judicial body when it is run by the CITY FINANCE DEPARTMENT, under Rob DUBOW. The BAA takes in revenue for the city. How can they hold hearings lacking the INDEPENDENCE of a court? And they hear their own appeals!! Yes, it is happening in Philly, in the birthplace of liberty and rights. PITTSBURGH recognized the appeals error years ago, and set up a separate appeals unit. A city councilman asked me: How can we fund an appeals unit? EASY: just TRANSFER Rob Dubow’s budget for it to the new unit. C O U R T- A P P O I N T E D
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AST WEEK, Philadelphia’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5 voted to endorse BETH GROSSMAN, the Republican nominee, over Democratic primary victor LARRY KRASNER for district attorney. Roughly 300 members of the FOP’s board voted unanimously for Grossman. Grossman was a 21-year veteran prosecutor in the Philadelphia DA’s Office. Krasner has been a civil-rights defense attorney for 30 years with no pros-
approached by a police officer who told me he thought highly of Grossman. I do not know why he approached me. I do not wear a sign saying “Republican.” I may have been one of the few people there he did not know from law enforcement. Well, I gather he was not alone in his sentiments. Krasner won the seven-candidate Democratic primary election May 16. Many at his victory party chanted, “F….the FOP” – the incomplete word was not “fun.” After that night, FOP PRESIDENT JOHN McNESBY wrote to Krasner expressing concerns that Krasner might “actively support and promote potentially violent anti-police hate groups in Philadelphia.” CONGRESSMAN BOB BRADY, chairman of Philadelphia Democratic City Committee, arranged a meeting between McNesby and (Cont. Page 14)
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ecutorial experience. On the stump, Grossman has said many times that Philadelphia has one of the best Public Defender’s offices in the US, so we do not need another (under Krasner). I guess the FOP got the message. Apparently, FOP membership was concerned about Krasner’s position on the death penalty and to legislation sponsored by Philadelphia STATE REP. MARTINA WHITE that would postpone the release of information about police officers involved in shootings until there was some level of investigation. Grossman said she spoke for roughly 10 minutes and was asked no questions. Many of the officers knew her either personally or by reputation. Prior to the primary, I was at a fundraiser for a Common Pleas Court judge endorsed by the FOP and was
CITY COUNCIL SIDES WITH AIRPORT WORKERS
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PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK Months after airport workers voted overwhelmingly to join their union, City Council passed a resolution calling on Philadelphia International Airport contractors PrimeFlight and Prospect to respect the workers’ legally protected rights and bargain a fair contract. Prompted by the companies’ stated refusal to bargain with the workers, the resolution – sponsored by Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (D-2nd) – comes after four years of the contracted workers’ organizing at the airport. “If these contractors want to do business at our airport, they need to abide by the law. We will not sit idly by while airline contractors like PrimeFlight and Prospect mistreat Philadelphia workers by refusing
to bargain,” said Johnson. “We encourage American Airlines and the Philadelphia International Airport to use contractors that respect their employees’ right to collectively bargain and negotiate in good faith for living wages, quality health care, and better working conditions. The workers are the backbone of the airport.” The resolution, co-sponsored by all members of City Council, begins: “Calling on PrimeFlight Aviation Services and Prospect Airport Services to negotiate in good faith to form a collective bargaining agreement with their Philadelphia employees, as represented by Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ.” It concludes, “Resolved, that the Council of the City of Philadelphia calls on PrimeFlight Aviation Services and Prospect Airport Services to negotiate in good faith to form a collective-bargaining agreement with their Philadelphia employees, as represented by Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ.” “Today we are sending the airlines and their contractors a message that the city’s airport will not be a sweatshop where your wages and union rights depend on the label on your uni-
forms. Contracted airport workers make the Philadelphia airport run,” said Gabe Morgan, VP of 32BJ SEIU. “They deserve the same rights and benefits as the employees who work directly for American Airlines do. We must stop the contractors from throwing up roadblocks to keep these workers in poverty.” The airline contractors in question are hired by American Airlines and employ baggage handlers, sky caps, wheelchair attendants, line queues and cabin cleaners.
PARKER: NIX DISPENSARY
Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker (D-9th) issued the following statement in response to the medical-marijuana dispensary permit granted to TerraVida Holistic Centers for a location on 8319-25 Stenton Avenue: “I am extremely disappointed with the state’s decision to grant a dispensary permit for this location, and the community and I remain vehemently opposed to this site, given its close proximity to a day care and a myriad of other serious concerns expressed by neighbors, including public safety, security, parking and traffic. “This is not a debate about the merits of medical
marijuana – which the community and I both support – but it is solely about the proposed use at this location. On April 25, over 400 residents attended a meeting that my office organized on this issue, at which time they raised the aforementioned issues. “Additionally, at the community’s request, my office is appealing the zoning permit granted by the City due to the concerns about the proposed use, and that appeal is still pending as we await a hearing date before the Zoning Board of Adjustment. I am working with the community to explore all of our options as we continue this fight.”
REP. HARRIS HAILS A NEW ‘CLEAN SLATE’
State Rep. Jordan Harris (D-S. Phila.) applauded the passing of a bill, SB 529, in the State Senate that would provide people with low-level, nonviolent criminal records a mechanism to have their record sealed from public view. “This legislation is long overdue – for too long we have only been tough on crime. This approach has cost our Commonwealth millions of dollars and has taken an unnecessary toll
on the lives of countless numbers of our citizens who have paid their legal debt to society but still find themselves locked out of a path to productive citizenry,” Harris said. “We are taking another necessary step to not just be tough, but to also be smart and, most importantly, fair in our approach to crime. This approach will unlock a pathway to creating something our Commonwealth desperately needs: more productive, taxpaying, citizens. This is a great leap in the direction of helping to reduce overall rates of recidivism in our commonwealth and providing opportunities for our citizens and our communities to grow and thrive, potentially saving the state millions of dollars because we will be increasing our tax base,” he continued. Harris was instrumental in passing Act 5 of 2016, which provides a process for sealing low-level, nonviolent misdemeanors. He is now advocating for SB 529 and HB 1419, which would implement automatic sealing of records with no action required by the former offender. Under Act 5, it is required that former offenders each file a sealing petition with a court.
Harris introduced HB 1419 with State Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland). “More than one in every three of the Commonwealth’s working-age citizens are estimated to have a criminal record,” Harris noted. “Many of these folks are our friends and neighbors who have only minor offenses, such as misdemeanors, while others simply have arrests without conviction. “Unfortunately, having even a minor criminal record carries lifelong barriers that can block successful re-entry and participation in society. This approach to crime has increased an already heavy burden of providing for one’s future and family,” Harris continued. “At a time when nearly half of all of Pennsylvania’s children have a parent with a record, we have to do all that we can to remove the barriers to stable employment, housing and anything else that can have a negative impact on family life.” The legislation proposes the following structure for sealing records. Nonviolent misdemeanor convictions would be sealed after a person has remained crime-free for 10 years. For non-conviction records, sealing would be done as a Continued on Page 11
O.I.C. PREPS YOUNG WORKERS FOR SUCCESS DR. KEVIN JOHNSON, in suit at right, congratulated young workforce-ready graduates of OIC last month. With Dr. Johnson are, L-R, Carl Bell, Camille Carter, Ernesto Ventura and Kahallel Sabor. Photos by Wendell Douglas
SABATINA JOINS IN FOR TURKS
State Sen. John Sabatina (D-Northeast) joined with lawmakers and cultural organizations at the eighth annual Cultural Celebration Day on June 29 at the State Capitol and recognized the Turkish Cultural Center Pennsylvania. The event, held by the Turkish Cultural Center Pennsylvania in conjunction with Latino Hispanic American Community Center and Chinese Cultural & Arts Institute, highlighted music, food, clothing and art from these regions of the globe. “My Senate district is rich in cultural diversity and our Turkish friends and neighbors make significant and positive contributions to our communities, our city and our state,” said Sabatina. “This celebration serves as a celebration of various cultures and as an important opportunity for people of different backgrounds and cultures to come together and form a mutual respect and understanding of one another.” Turkish Cultural Center Pennsylvania, whose Philadelphia branch is located in Northeast Philadelphia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting harmony in a diverse cultural setting in the United States and to introduce, promote and inform the people in the
State Rep. Ed Neilson (D-Northeast) was awarded for his efforts on moving Pennsylvania towards enforcement of the federal Real ID Act requirements. The award comes as the US Department of Homeland Security granted Pennsylvania a Real ID enforcement extension through Oct. 10, 2017, which means Pennsylvanians will not face access issues when entering federal facilities through that date. Neilson said PennDOT estimates Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards will be available at the customer’s option in 2019. This will allow ample time for people who want a Real ID product to obtain one before the final DHS effective date of Oct. 1, 2020. “The General Assembly made real strides in May to get Pennsylvania in compliance with the federal law and as a result, the Department of Homeland Security granted us with yet another extension to work towards that compliance,” Neilson said. “I am proud to receive the Recognition Award for Homeland Security Leadership and Public Engagement and to have been part of the movement to assure Pennsylvanians would not need to get passports to board a plane or to have access to federal facilities.” Neilson said he had been working since the 2015-2016 session to get legislation passed that would repeal the 2012 state law and require the Department of Transportation and other state agencies to comply with
FEDERAL WORKERS RALLY
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NEILSON GETS I.D. ACT AWARD
the 2005 Real ID Act. “Rep. Neilson has engaged with state officials, other legislators and the public to move the ball forward on behalf of his constituents and all the residents of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Brian Zimmer, president of Keeping IDentities Safe. “I earnestly believe Neilson was the key initiator of action to remove legislation that was blocking PennDOT’s capability to comply.” Keeping IDentities Safe works to raise awareness for states to protect people’s driver’s licenses and IDs from risk of terrorism and theft “I am happy to share information on how to obtain a subsidized PennDOT Photo ID card for eligible residents. I am committed to making sure state services are accessible to the people who need them the most,” Neilson said. Philly Re-Start provides homeless residents with vouchers to take to state Driver’s License/Photo ID Centers to receive a PennDOT Photo ID card. This takes place at 4 p.m. each Monday along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway near 19th Street. To qualify for a subsidized PennDOT Photo ID, applicants must bring a letter of referral from a shelter, rehabilitation center, halfway house, or a similar agency to certify they are in deep need. Referral letters from churches and parole officers are also accepted. Recipients then take the voucher to the nearest PennDOT Driver’s License/Photo ID center. “Please share this information with anyone you know in deep need,” Neilson urged. “As always, if you have any questions on this or any state issue, please contact my office at (215) 879-6615.”
AMERICAN Federation of Government Employees local unions rallied at Independence Mall last month to protest proposed federal budget cuts. Affected would be workers at Independence National Historical Park, the Environmental Protection Agency, federal courts and other agencies with staff in Philadelphia. Local 3633 President Gary Morton, L, drew personal support from Philadelphia AFL-CIO President Pat Eiding. Photos by Wendell Douglas
BUILDING TRADES REACH OUT
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Cont. From Prev. Page matter of course, given that the presumption of innocence is one of the bedrocks of the American criminal justice system. The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which is also expected to receive the Senate-passed bill.
United States on Turkish history and culture by bringing people together in an open dialog.
BUILDING TRADES members from Pittsburgh and Philadelphia met with all lawmakers in both House and Senate of the state capitol. A delegation reached out to a warm welcome from State Sen. Sharif Street.
BOILERMAKERS HIT THE ’BURG
BOILERMAKERS Local 13 PAC members stormed the State Capitol offices of legislators to tell their union’s story of progress. They were even seen on Facebook with State Sen. Sharif Street. Shown are, L-R, Tom Kern; Business Agent Roger Jayne; Business Manager Martin Williams; Political Director Ed Harkins; and Bill Monahan.
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the WAFFLE MAN
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O! HERE we go again. It was sent to me and I thought some of you might enjoy it. A friend of mine asked me the other day, “What was your favorite fast food when you were growing up?” “We didn’t have fast food when I was growing up,” I informed him. “All the food was slow.” “C’mon, seriously. Where did you eat?” “It was a place called ‘at home,’” I explained. “Mom cooked every day and when
Dad got home from work, we sat down together at the dining room table and, if I didn’t like what she put on my plate, I was allowed to sit there until I did like it.” I didn’t tell him the part about how I had to have permission to leave the table. But here are some other things I would have told him about my childhood – if I thought his delicate sensibilities could have handled it: Some parents never owned their own house, never wore Levi’s, never set foot on a golf course, never traveled out of the country or had a credit card. In their later years, they had something called a revolving charge card. The card was good only at Sears Roebuck. Or maybe it was Sears & Roebuck. Either way, there is no Roebuck anymore. Maybe he died. My parents never drove me to soccer practice. This was mostly because we never had heard of soccer. I
had a bicycle that weighed probably 50 lb., and only had one speed – slow. We didn’t have a television in our house until I was 19. It was, of course, black and white, and the station went off the air at midnight, after playing the national anthem and a poem about God; it came back on the air at about 6 a.m. and there was usually a locally produced news and farm show on, featuring local people. I was 21 before I tasted my first store-made pizza; it was called “pizza pie.” Pizzas were not delivered to our home – but milk was. The one and only phone in the house was in the living room and it was on a party line. Before you could dial, you had to listen and make sure some people you didn’t know weren’t already using the line. All newspapers were delivered by boys and all boys delivered newspa-
pers – my brother delivered a newspaper, six days a week. It cost 7 cents a paper, of which he got to keep 2 cents. He had to get up at 6 a.m. every morning. On Saturdays, he had to collect the 42 cents from his customers. His favorite customers were the ones who gave him 50 cents and told him to keep the change. His least-favorite customers were the ones who seemed to never be home on collection day. Movie stars kissed with their mouths shut. At least, they did in the movies. There were no movie ratings because all movies were responsibly produced without profanity or violence or almost anything offensive. If you grew up in a generation before there was fast food, you may want to share some of these memories with your children or grandchildren. Growing up isn’t what it used to be, is it?
understanding BANKRUPTCY BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED
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uestion: How to recognize when and where you are exposed financially – Mistake No. 4. Answer: Mistake 4 is not preparing for retirement. If you are relying on Social Security to fund your retirement years, you are asking for trouble. In most cases, Social Securi-
ty retirement will pay you enough to live at the “Poverty +” level. Everyone should be putting money away, even if it comes in the form of a sum like $100 – or less – per month. Most retirement plans have favorable tax consequences, so every dollar you put away will benefit you. And the important thing in this process is to simply begin it – setting up and automatic withdrawal and transfer to a retirement plan will make the process less difficult because it will require less thought. Squeezing $100 or more from your budget may be painful, but you should see this type of contribution as a necessary investment – just as necessary as paying for electricity or car insurance. Next Week’s Question: How to recognize when and where you are exposed financially – Mistake No.5.
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EVERYDAY PEOPLE (Cont. From Page 9) evidence exonerating him. He also insisted on trying a group of elected officials – former State Reps. Louise Williams Bishop, Michelle Brownlee and Ron Waters; former Judge Thomasine Tynes and State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown – despite former Attorney General Kathleen Kane’s contention their indictments were based on race … and despite the fact that even if you added up every gift they got, it wouldn’t begin to touch what Williams himself took in. (By the way, you know that Kane is somewhere laughing her petty behind off.) As for what’s next for the DA’s office, there’s still a little bit of Williams’s term left before
the November face-off between Democratic candidate Larry Krasner and Republican candidate Beth Grossman. Right now, First Assistant DA Kathleen Martin continues to run the office, just as she’s been doing since Williams voluntarily surrendered his license to practice law. While she’s probably the frontrunner to fill Williams’s unexpired term, President Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper and the Board of Judges will make the final decision on that. When former DA Ron Castille decided to leave the office to run for mayor 26 years ago, the judges gave the chair to one of their own, Lynne Abraham. The “one tough cookie” went on to hold the office for almost 20 years. There’s no word on when the judges are going to meet.
WALKING the BEAT (Cont. From Page 9) inches. John DOUGHERTY has brought two lawsuits against that paper, one of which is reported to be nearing success. Still, you cannot always be critical of reporters. We need to know what the editor is thinking. The Society of Professional Journalists ETHICS CODE cautions to DO LITTLE HARM. I feel some writers subscribe to the ancient Hindu Sanskrit: “I AM BECOME DEATH, THE DESTROYER OF WORLDS.” HATS OFF to State Sen. Sharif STREET, who hosted apprentices of the Building Trades in the state capitol. Street’s aide Jim HARRITY gave them the tour ... And thanks to Gov. Tom WOLF, who signed a bill making aggravated dog abuse a felony! I got a robo-call from the “IRS.” The voice said I was guilty of tax evasion, and an arrest warrant was being is-
sued. It is a SCARY call. My accountant told me that it is a SCAM to get credit-card data. If you get one, ignore it, or call them and tell them *&^%$@!@+. Some very “superior” folks have been critical of elected officials who are not so articulate in public speaking. They should learn the quote of Emperor CLAUDIUS (who had a stutter, yet was the greatest – for the people – emperor), who said, “It is not HOW a man says something, but WHAT he has to say.” POLS may speak in short sentences,
but this appealed to voters who selected Trump. These elected officials may seem less than cerebral to some, but the people CONSTANTLY reelect them – while critics achieve no office. Gov. CHRISTIE closed state parks, etc., in the budget scramble. It is just Christie being Christie. DESPITE all the political rumpus, we still live in the GREATEST COUNTRY, and the days around the Fourth are where we show it. President John ADAMS wrote his wife of that day: It “will be the most memo-
rable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shows, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” Keep doing JUST THAT, year upon year.
ELEPHANT CORNER
Common Pleas Court primary in May, the FOP endorsed JUDGE VINCENT FURLONG. Furlong was one of the nine winners of the Democratic race and was the sole Republican candidate, which pretty much means he will win in November. The FOP endorsed White in her special election and the more-recent general election last year. Last November, the union also supported US Sen. Pat Toomey for re-election. Last week, Republican City Committee held an educational meeting for newer ward leaders. Many of the veterans also attended. The main part of the business meeting was a review of campaign-finance regulations. The special guest speak-
er at the meeting was new Pennsylvania Republican Party CHAIRMAN VAL DiGIORGIO. DiGiorgio currently lives in Chester County and, prior to his election to chair of the PAGOP, was the chairman of the Republican Party of Chester County. DiGiorgio is also an attorney. He cut his teeth in politics in his native South Philadelphia. DiGiorgio expressed concern about the dwindling Republican voter registrations in the southeastern part of the commonwealth. Philadelphia is particularly bad. The fear has been if voter turnout is strong in Philadelphia, it does not bode well for our statewide Republican candidates.
(Cont. From Page 9) Krasner. The meeting was reported to be polite and constructive, but obviously not enough to persuade FOP membership. Since former Pennsylvania Supreme Court CHIEF JUSTICE RON CASTILLE was elected DA in 1985, a Republican has not won a contested citywide seat. Three Republicans hold the two City Council at-Large seats and the one City Commissioner seat set aside in the City Charter for people not belonging to the majority party. The FOP does not usually endorse Republicans but has been known to do so. In the
CITY HALL SAM (Cont. From Page 9) the phones, trying to talk to as many Common Pleas Court judges as possible. Newly elected STATE REP. EMILIO VÁZQUEZ has settled into his Capitol office and done a very good job. While some folks wanted to turn his election into an issue of voter fraud or political corruption without any actual evidence, Vázquez marched forward and is representing his constituents well.
G.O.P. WOMEN MEET
REPUBLICAN Women of Philadelphia (accompanied by some male friends) met at James in Logan Square. Attending, L-R, were Marci Pearlstodt, Art Grugan, Barb Grugan, Councilman Al Taubenberger, and Ward Leaders Barbara Coxe and Denise Furey. Photo by Wendell Douglas
Kelly Kenyatta, a lifelong Philadelphian, was born on August 19, 1959 to the late Louvenia and Jasper Gay. Kelly was educated within the Philadelphia School District before attending Delaware State University for several years. After leaving Del State, Kelly trained as a nursing assistant and worked in the Auctions: Equipment Auction: Taylor, PA, Live/webcast 7/13/2017. Dump Trucks, Hydro-mobiles, Telescopic Forklifts, Trucks, Trailer. Visit cowley1. com 570-499-8883 AU0023L _______________________ Home for Rent: 2-4bd Homes from $500/mo! FREE listings/ FREE service! Foreclosures, HUD, Seize, FSBO. Bad credit/Poor credit OK. FREE credit consultation. Call today 1-888-285-5975 _______________________ Miscellaneous: SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 – MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill – Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800578-1363 Ext.300N _______________________ Miscellaneous: Dish Network-Satellite Television Services. Now Over 190 channels for ONLY $49.99/ mo! HBO-FREE for one year. FREE Installation, FREE Streaming, FREE HD. Add Internet for $14.95 a month. 1-800-758-5070 _______________________ Health/Medical: Viagra!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00! Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1-800-492-0828
health care field for most of her life. Kelly also held multiple roles with the Philadelphia School District as a school police officer, teacher’s aide, and lunch room attendant. Kelly’s truest passion and life work, however, was simple – she wanted to help people, especially children. At a young age, she began foster-
grandchildren, Chynna and Marquis; three sisters, Mary, Mildred, and Jean; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on July 13 at Mt Zion 1827 E. Somerset St, Philadelphia. All condolences can be sent to the church.
LEGAL NOTICE
TO: I’Quan Key and the Parents of I’Quan Key A Petition has been filed asking the court to put an end to all rights you have to your child/grandchild Baby Girl Williams who was born on 2/6/17 at Hospital of University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, as well as any rights A.W. has to Baby Girl Williams. The court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child/ grandchild. That hearing will be held on August 31, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. at Court Room 14, One Montgomery Plaza, Orphan’s Court Division, Swede Street, Norristown, PA 19404 before Judge Murphy. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child/grandchild as well as the rights of A.W. to that child may be ended by the court without your being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. 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 to find out where you can get legal help. An important option may be available to you under Act 101 of PA Law that allows for an enforceable voluntary agreement for continuing contact following an adoption between an adoptive parent, a child, a birth parent and/or a birth relative of the child, if all parties agree and the voluntary agreement is approved by the court. The agreement must be signed and approved by the court to be legally binding. You are also warned that if you fail to file either an acknowledgment of paternity pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. Section 2503 (d) relating to acknowledgement and claim of paternity, and fail to either appear at a hearing to object to the termination of your rights or file a written objection to such termination with the court prior to the hearing, your rights may be terminated under Pa.C.S.A. 2503(d) or 2504(c) of the adoption act.
LAWYER REFERRAL AND INFORMATION SERVICE 100 West Airy Street, P.O. Box 268 Norristown, PA 19404 (800) 560-LAW1
JU LY 6, 2017
L-R: Kelly Kenyatta with 2016 Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and Kenyatta’s son Malcolm Kenyatta.
ing children through the Department of Human Services and impacted the lives of dozens of families. She organized soup kitchens, community clean ups, and was a Judge of Election for several years. Ever the life of the party, she was known lovingly to close friends as ‘Starr’ and to many children’s whose life she touched as “Ms. Kell” or “Momma Kell.” In early 2017, Kelly had a major stroke, the effects of which she never fully recovered. She was called home on July 4. Kelly leaves many to cherish her memory: her four children: Malcolm, Fatima, Cheree, and Bilalh; one foster daughter, Nakisha; two
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OBITUARY: KELLY KENYATTA
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JU LY 6, 2017
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