SOUTH PHILADELPHIA
Vol. XIII No. 47
Issue 533
November 23, 2017
“The good things we do must be made a part of the public record”
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LET THERE BE LIGHT
SOME EASTWICK residents have been left in the dark when it comes to the getting the proper lighting on their street. Story P. 2. Photo by Eldon Graham
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PUBLIC SERVANT AWARD PP. 7 & 16
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A Neighborhood Left in the Darkness BY ELDON GRAHAM hiladelphia is known as “The City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection,” but for some residents, it can be hard to see all that love because the city has literally left some of them in the dark. Barbara Johnson, a 75-yearold woman on 86th Street in southwest Philadelphia, has been living in darkness for years because her street has no street lights. When nightfall comes, it is increasingly difficult to see – so difficult, Johnson says, that the houses become almost invisible.
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Johnson says she has been trying to get the city to shed some light on the issue since 2015, but to no avail. She sent letters out to city officials, including Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (no relation) and Mayor Jim Kenney. In response to an inquiry about her situation, she said, “I invite you to come down to our neighborhood on 86th Street at night and see if you can find the houses I am writing about.” Johnson’s street is populated by four elderly neighbors, including her, and the absence of light makes it increasingly
difficult to see at night. “It’s like we don’t exist,” she said. “I have contacted the mayor but haven’t heard anything. He doesn’t live over here, so that’s not his problem.” The absence of light also burdens her when she has friends over as they have a hard time seeing as well once the sun goes down. All of friends are around her age and makes it as difficult to see, she doesn’t have younger friends. With all the construction going on around the city, Johnson asked why there was no help for an elderly African Ameri-
can woman in need. She also had some choice words for Councilman Kenyatta Johnson. “What really stoked my fire was when I saw Kenyatta [Johnson] on television and he gave $75,000 out of his office funds to (the Schuylkill River Trail). They have $75,000, let it come out of their budget!” For Barbara Johnson, the quest for illumination has become one of simple fairness. “It doesn’t matter what your position is in the city,” she emphasized. “I think you ought to get a light in the darkness.” For her, it’s not a matter of
who gets the job done but that someone with the power to do something should hear her voice and do something. Councilman Johnson’s office said that his team is looking into the issue; however, Kaitlyn Manasterski, the communication liaison, noted that “this is not an overnight issue and can take a while.” The Streets Department is currently investigating the issue as well, according to a departmental spokesperson. Hopefully it won’t take too much time to get some light into the darkness.
Kenney’s Testimony on the SRC
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Submitted to City Council
BY MAYOR JIM KENNEY T IS OUR firm belief that governance by the School Reform Commission (SRC) is no longer necessary, and that this body should recommend its dissolution to the Pennsylvania Secretary of Education. It is undeniable that Philadelphia’s success is dependent on our schools. Over the past 16 years, since the imposition of this body, Philadelphians have been without direct control and accountability for the School District. Over that time period, periods of great instability have been interspersed with periods of stability and improvement. This SRC, specifically over the past two years, has overseen one such period of stability, buoyed by the financial support of the City of Philadelphia, totaling over $500 million in new recurring annual revenue over the past six years. With these additional resources and disciplined financial planning and management, the School District has had multiple years of balanced budgets. The District now has contracts with each of
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its bargaining units, and there have been improvements in both student test score achievement and the high school graduation rate. We believe now is the right time to return to local control, and that doing so will only further enhance opportunities for improvement of educational outcomes. The end of the SRC will return governance of the School District of Philadelphia to a Board of Education appointed by the Mayor, and confirmed by City Council. This Board, and the City as a whole, will be focused on ensuring success for the School District in four specific areas: accountability, collaboration, adequate resources, and strong management. There is stability and positive momentum within the School District because local government partners are collaborating and working toward a shared vision of equitable educational opportunities for every child in Philadelphia. We are overseeing key initiatives such as offering free, quality pre-K to an additional 2,000 children; partnering with the District
on community schools to serve an additional 6,500 students and their families; and partnering with entities like the Philadelphia Housing Authority on innovative cross-sector partnerships such as that found in Vaux Big Picture School. Without additional assistance from the Commonwealth, we have been enhancing City support for the most disadvantaged children so that every classroom and every school fosters a productive learning environment. In other words, this administration and City Council have already taken on greater responsibility for an organization with which we have no direct oversight or authority relationship. The people we represent, the residents and voters of Philadelphia, deserve direct accountability from the District that serves their children. We believe a local school board that is appointed by the Mayor and publicly vetted and confirmed by City Council is the appropriate vehicle for that accountability. In order to protect and accelerate hard-won progress in the District, we must en-
sure that our schools have adequate resources and strong leadership. During the past 15 years of SRC control, we’ve had three superintendents, with Dr. William Hite serving the longest term. Dr. Hite’s leadership has delivered not just for students, but for taxpayers as well – thanks to proven fiscal oversight by District CFO, Uri Monson. The Commonwealth as a whole faces enormous fiscal challenges. Lowered credit ratings linked to analyst warnings about budgeting practices adopted by the General Assembly have only worsened the outlook for Pennsylvania. While we refuse to let the General Assembly off the hook for providing the thorough and efficient education required under the Pennsylvania Constitution, we also know we must face the reality that they have consistently proven unwilling to face that responsibility. In the meantime, we understand that Philadelphia must make the sacrifices necessary to provide the resources all students in Philadelphia schools need to succeed.
For that reason, we believe the time to dissolve the SRC and to reclaim local authority over the School District is right for all funding partners, including the General Assembly. Dissolution of the SRC will strengthen the existing partnership between the Commonwealth, City, and District. Local control will also allow our City government and School District to join forces with districts and municipalities across the Commonwealth that are pushing for equitable and apolitical school funding reform – which right now is the subject of a major legal action that will soon be considered by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. We humbly ask the Commissioners here, each of whom has given of themselves to Philadelphia public school students, to now stand alongside us in the fight for equity and justice for all students. The time is right to return the School District of Philadelphia to local control and accountability. We ask for your approval of this Resolution.
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Editor: Greg Salisbury In Memoriam: 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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Vázquez’s Pardon Meeting
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DELIVERANCE Baptist Church hosted a “Pathways to Pardons” workshop that was organized by State Rep. Emilio Vázquez. It is part of a comprehensive effort by Lt. Gov. Mike Stack to boost the number of pardons for prior criminal offences which impede the efforts of returning citizens to integrate into society. L-R were Stack, Pastor Glenn Spaulding and Vázquez’s Chief of Staff Aisha Richardson. Photo by Wendell Douglas
in City Council, which has an Equal Employment Opportunity officer on staff. “The City’s policy recognizes sexual harassment against persons of all genders as a violation of federal and state laws and the Philadelphia Fair Practices Ordinance. Council has rigorous protocols in place for responding to harassment claims, including protections for complainants, and early
this year began mandating annual sexual harassment prevention training for employees. “Our goal has long been to support inclusive, welcoming workplaces in all sectors. For the truly equitable society we seek, there can be zero tolerance for workplace sexual harassment and there must be swift and severe consequences for harassers and predators.”
INSIDER TIPS FOR Roebuck Hosts Veterans Event SELLING YOUR HOME
STATE REP. Jim Roebuck hosted an information session for veterans at University of the Sciences, McNeil Science & Technology Center, with Maj. Gen. Anthony J. Carrelli, adjutant general of Pennsylvania National Guard, as the keynote speaker, talking about veterans benefits. Representatives of local, state and government agencies offering assistance and education to veterans, including a representative of Cheyney University, each had a display table at the session. Carrelli urged the veterans present to register with both the national Veterans Affairs office as well as the Pennsylvania office. If a veteran calls the Pennsylvania office at 1 (800) 547-2838, he or she will receive assistance in registering and with claiming benefits which they are owed. L-R, Sgt. Maj. Harry Buchanan; State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown; Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell; Roebuck; and Carrelli. Photo by Bonnie Squires
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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.
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 1-844-894-2805 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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OUNCIL President Darrell L. Clarke last week issued the following statement: “Sexual harassment is morally wrong and should not be tolerated in any workplace. In government, mistreatment of employees is also a legal and financial liability for taxpayers. For those reasons, there are clear, fair protocols for processing complaints of sexual harassment
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Clarke: No Harassment
11/21/2017 11:34:31 AM
The Stack Attack Strikes Back
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POLS on the STREET BY JOE SHAHEELI T. GOV. Mike Stack announced he will seek re-election at City Hall yesterday, surrounded by a legion of Philadelphia political leaders. A Northeast Democratic ward leader of long standing and former state senator, Stack is Philadelphia’s highest-ranked statewide
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Representative
Vanessa Lowery Brown N OV E M B E R 2 3, 2017
190th Legislative District
elected official. As the lieutenant governor presides over the State Senate, his position gives him some sway in our top legislative body. This is crucial particularly for Democrats in 2018. Even if their Gov. Tom Wolf wins re-election and Democrats fare well in the off-year election, they are certain to return to a powerful Republican majority in the General Assembly. To accomplish anything, they will need an interlocutor with the lawmakers. Wolf has shown a shrewd grasp of the administrative duties of the Governor’s Office. As a politician, he is still on a learning curve. His independent attempts to negotiate with the General Assembly have produced little and late throughout his first term. Perhaps it is time for him to call a professional.
Observers would also advise him to back a Philadelphian in the 2018 primary. Philadelphia comprises 20% of the Pennsylvania Democratic primary vote. This base could, in theory, be beaten by an out-of-town outsider with united muscle. But that’s not what Stack is up against. Instead, he’s faced with three primary foes – two from metropolitan Pittsburgh and one from suburban Philadelphia. In a four-way race, why would any Philadelphian vote for an out-of-towner? Democrats will commend Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone for her success in flipping her county from red to blue. But she has no track record of furthering Philadelphia in her career. John Fetterman, the charismatic mayor of the small Pittsburgh mill-town sub-
Emilio Vazquez
William Keller
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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.
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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
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Street
1621 W. Jefferson Street Philadelphia, PA 19121
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215-425-5708
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State Senator
Sharif
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184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
Always Hard At Work for You!
State Senator
State Representative
State Rep.
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urb of Braddock, ran unsuccessfully in the Democratic primary to challenge U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) in last year’s Democratic primary. Aryanna Berringer is an Iraq War veteran and former congressional candidate from Westmoreland County. This opens a window for Stack to win this primary. Look for Fetterman, Berringer and Cozzone staffers to dialog intensively to get one or the other to drop out between now and February. But it’s not clear any one team has a valid reason to drop out in favor of a rival. All three are young and have statewide ambitions. Well, the best way to advance statewide ambitions is to run a full statewide race, to learn the circuit. And it’s not like a lieutenant governor can punish his unsuccessful rivals. The LG
215-227-6161
Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
State Rep. Jason
Turkey Time
CHEF Levi “Scotty” Scott, R, prepared a feast for Wynnefield seniors at Wynn Senior Center on Monday, courtesy of Councilman Curtis Jones. Photo by Wendell Douglas
can do things, but he cannot really undo other people’s things. So challenging Stack hurts no challengers; it can only further their careers. Stack’s challengers will have to deal with a united Philadelphia base. He is supported by Congressman Bob Brady (D-Phila.); State Sens. Vince Hughes and Anthony Williams (D-W. 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
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
Representative
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.
Phila.); parolees like Thurmond Berry, Pennsylvania veteran; and Media Mayor Bob McMahon. Philadelphia Democratic City Committee and labor leaders’ endorsements come with. Stack’s campaign will tout “a groundbreaking record of reform and achievement,” according to Marty (Cont. Page 18)
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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understanding BANKRUPTCY BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: What is a Chapter 13 bankruptcy? Answer: A Chapter 13 bankruptcy functions as a plan to reorganize your liabilities and help you get a fresh start unburdened by mounting unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, etc.). Such a plan requires payments to a bankruptcy trustee or administer. Chapter 13 can provide bankruptcy relief to you if your earnings are too high for Chapter 7, or if Chapter 7 would result in the loss of property you want to keep. If you are trying to stop a foreclosure, get a car back after repossession, or repay debts over time, Chapter 13 can make sense. The amount of your plan will depend on a number of factors, including: 1. Your household income 2. Your disposable income 3. How much non-exempt equity you own. Chapter 13 is sometimes called the “wage -earner” plan because it works best if you have a steady, regular source of income. Next Week’s Question: When does Chapter 7 make the most sense for me?
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11/21/2017 11:43:06 AM
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THANKS FOR EVERYTHING who do good work for the com mon good, yet
OPINION
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ast week, the Public Record bestowed its “Public Servant of the Year Award” on Ryan N. Boyer, a native Philadelphian union leader who has worked all his life to advance solid working-class jobs for city residents and advance educational and economic opportunities for all. A life’s work like this is the essence of public service. But Boyer is not alone. There are many other public servants
OPINION BY STATE REP. JASON DAWKINS
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he Affordable Care Act’s enrollment period is now open and closes in less than a month on Dec. 15. I fear many people in our neighbors and communities in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania are unaware of that – and it’s unacceptable. Underserved communities face many roadblocks with health care and the challenges read like a lengthy shopping list. There is a lack of qualified local physicians in our neighborhoods, an absence of health-related knowledge in our school systems, and an enormous dearth of commu-
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are dismissed by an uninformed public solely because they are “politicians” or engage in political activity. Well, the work of politicians is at least as important as the work of plumbers or the work of pediatricians. We cannot live in a peaceful, productive society without people who are willing to master the jobs of public office. Government is easy to complain about but hard to live without. On this week of Thanksgiving, let us give thanks to everyone in Philadelphia who gives back to our community. We thank people who work in public office;
people in private office who care about public problems and work to solve them; and people who volunteer for civic engagement and do the legwork of democracy. Become a committee person. Work your block, meet your neighbors and learn their issues face to face. Train to be their spokesperson. It is not difficult or dangerous work, but it develops your social slkills in ways that endure beyond elections. Civic activists of all stripes, we salute you. Keep it up. We do not think you are turkeys for tackling this work. Without your efforts, the USA would become a dim shadow of its former glory. Democracy only flourishes when citizens turn out to practice it.
Time to Enroll In Health Coverage nity resources to help promote better health. I have walked the streets of my district and seen the absence of ample green space and the lack of full produce sections in grocery stores. Given this obstacle course of challenges that stands to impede public health, the absolute least we must do is to ensure that all are given access to health insurance. I have seen the prevalent health problems in my community. I’ve seen individuals struggling with a multitude of health problems – from type 2 diabetes and severe obesity to heart disease and hypertension. While in many cases these conditions are untreatable, they can be managed with access to quality health care. It is unacceptable for Pennsylvanians to struggle with illnesses without any help or resources. Our prerogative must be making health in-
surance more accessible, not hiding it away and allowing premiums to skyrocket. I challenge anyone to tell me what possible benefit can come from less advertising and awareness of the Affordable Care Act. Can anyone defend these actions and say that our communities would be better off without Obamacare? When Washington chooses not to educate our communities about the ACA, people are being robbed of their chance to receive health insurance and health care. I will continue to speak out in support of the Affordable Care Act. Since my first day in office, I pledged to be a voice to the voiceless. Everyone deserves health insurance. As a nation, we cannot afford to think any other way. State Rep. Jason Dawkins represents the 179th Legislative District in Kensington and Northeast Philadelphia.
The News in Black & White
LDC BUSINESS MANAGER Ryan Boyer was named “Public Servant of the Year” last week. He is an exemplar of public service. Other Philadelphians, great and small, should find their own ways to give back to their community and offer a leg up to their fellow citizens. Photo by Wendell Douglas
MARK your CALENDAR Nov. 22- S t a t e Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts APPRISE counseling for Medicare open enrollment at 6511 Ridge Ave., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For app’t: (215) 482-8726. Nov. 28- S t a t e Rep. Jason Dawkins hosts Weatherization Event at Ziehler Plg., 200 E. Olney Ave., 6:30-8 p.m. Advice & resources for staying warm & saving money this winter. For info: (215) 744-7901. Nov. 30- P h i l a . Office of Community Empowerment & Opportunity hosts “Uniting to Fight
Poverty Summit” at Arch St. Mtg. Ho., 320 Arch St., 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Keynote speaker: State Rep. Chris Rabb. Tickets $35. For info: Jennifer.Selpa@Phila.Gov. Nov. 30- W T S Phila. hosts “Fantastic Voyage” AWARD Ceremony at Vie, 600 N. Broad St., Cocktails 5:30 p.m., dinner 6:30 p.m. Corporate table of 10 $1,200, agency table $900, Members $150, Non-Members $180, Agency reps or students $95. Free valet parking. RSVP: Samantha Safara Samantha.Safara@ hdrinc.com. Dec. 1- Phila. Veterans Comfort Ho. is hosted Happy Hour Fundraiser at My Crafthouse Restaurant, indoor beergarden, 1363 N. 31st St., 4-8 p.m. Cover $10 includes a free beer or wine; half-price appetizers & drinks. 50/50s & raffles. For info: Rania Major (215) 837-3250. Dec. 6- State Rep. Pam DeLissio hosts APPRISE
counseling for Medicare open enrollment at 6511 Ridge Ave., 1-3 p.m. For app’t: (215) 482-8726. Dec. 6- C o u n c i l m a n Mark Squilla is hosted at Grand Opening of Yards Brewery & Taproom, 500 Spring Garden St., mezzanine, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Catering by Chef James Burke,. Brewery tour. Brawlers $2,000, Phila. Pale Ale $1,000, Poor Richard’s tavern Spruce Ale $500, General Admission $50. RSVP: Brittany@lperrygroup.com. Payable to “Squilla for Council,” P.O. Box 37332, Phila., PA 19148. Dec. 6- United Republican Cl. Hosts Anniversary Awards Gala at 3156 Frankford Ave., 6-9 p.m. Awardees: Farah Jimenez & Kevin Pasquay. Tickets $125. Dec. 7- State Sen. John Sabatina hosts Holiday Happy Hour at Blue Duck on Broad, 220 S. Broad St., (Cont. to Page 18)
11/21/2017 11:43:46 AM
A CROWD of 300 packed Galdo’s Entertainment Complex in South Philadelphia to honor Public Servant of the Year Ryan N. Boyer.
STATE REP. Rosita Youngblood was flanked here by fabled emcee Jonathan Saidel, L, and her chief of staff Charles Carn. Photo by Bill Myers
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Boyer Honored as ‘Public Servant of the Year’
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NO PARTY is complete without the capable services of Philadelphia’s masterful master of ceromonies Jonathan Saidel, R.
STATE REP. Maria Donatucci gave Boyer a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Photo by Wendell Douglas
STATE SEN. Tina Tartaglione gave Boyer a citation from the Pennsylvania Senate. Photo by Bill Myers
TEMPLE University Senior Advisor on Government Affairs George Kenney, a former state representative, posed with State Sen. Tina Tartaglione. Photo by Bill Myers
L-R at the affair were union activist and Ward Leader Pete Lyde, LDC maven Dione Frith, Juanita Savage, Judge Jackie Frazier-Lyde and Congressman Bob Brady. Photo by Bill Myers
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CONGRESSMAN Bob Brady, L, gave Boyer a flag that had flown over the U.S. Capitol as Jonathan Saidel joined them. Photo by Bill Myers
L-R were Rydesha Boyer, senatorial aide Omar Sabir, Samir Sabir, Shahid Omar Sabir and 46th Ward Committeewoman Tanya Allen. Photo by Wendell Douglas
L-R were Joe Rowland, Juanita Savage, Ward Leader Pete Lyde and Judge Jackie Frazier-Lyde. Photo by Wendell Douglas NEWLY elected to the Pennsylvania Superior Court, Judge Maria McLaughlin was congratulated by Congressman Bob Brady. Photo by Wendell Douglas
WARD LEADER Pete Wilson enjoyed meeting up with old friend Ryan Boyer. Photo by Wendell Douglas
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STATE REP. Maria Donatucci, L, attended the award ceremony with her children Thomas and Deirdre Donatucci. Photo by Wendell Douglas
More Pics Page 16
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MARCELLA Daniels, R and Yvonne Roberts were proud to turn out to honor Ryan Boyer. Photo by Bill Myers
11/21/2017 11:53:41 AM
Against Discrimination in Public Contracts
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A PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK
FTER DECADES of under-utilization of minority and woman contractors and workforces, City Council is poised to enforce anti-discrimination laws in City contracting. City Council passed Councilman at Large
David Oh’s Bill No. 170726. The City has a history of failure to enforce compliance with economic opportunity plans, which set goals for minority and woman participation in public projects. With the $500 million Rebuild project, there are greatly in-
creased opportunities for this participation. The City Charter grants Council authority to debar contactors. The bill proposes to allow Council to debar, suspend contracts, and terminate contracts directly for the failure to meet EOP requirements. Addition-
ally, Council could recommend withholding of payment to the finance director. “Year after year, EOP goals aren’t met, and there are no consequences. The lack of enforcement has allowed systematic discrimination against minority and woman participation in City projects to continue. This is a violation of the US Constitution,” the Councilman declared. Community activists, led by Rochelle Bilal, Guardian Civic League president, and Emmanuel Bussie, chair of Professionals for Progress, spoke for the bill prior to the vote. Oh specifically thanked former Councilman W. Wilson Goode, Jr. for his years of dedication to this issue and credited him for laying the groundwork for Oh’s bill to be effective.
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PLBC Plans Tour For Women of Color
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State Rep. Morgan Cephas (D-W. Phila.) announced that the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus will kick off a five-part listening tour to better address the needs of women and girls of color across
Pennsylvania. This listening tour will be spearheaded by the caucus’ Subcommittee on Women & Girls of Color. The listening tour will address such issues as criminal and juvenile justice, economic opportunity, health and wellness, education and workforce development, and overall empowerment. Cephas, chairwoman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus’ Subcommittee on Women & Girls of Color, said, “Last March, I was appointed chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Women and Girls of Color. It is an honor to finally launch this initiative. This listening tour will allow us to hear directly from our most vulnerable constituency and find ways to tackle many of the issues women of color have been facing for generations.” The PLBC’s Subcommittee on Women and Girls of Color was created in March with the goal of identifying key areas where black women and women of color face the largest disparities. In March 2018, the subcommittee will host a keynote event (Cont. Page 14)
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EVERYDAY PEOPLE BY DENISE CLAY F YOU’RE reading this, chances are you’re doing it while trying to wake up from the tryptophan coma that comes with a hearty Thanksgiving dinner. That dinner is the showcase for this day in which we celebrate what we’re thankful for as a nation, whatever that is. For some of us, it’s the possibility of being able to sit down with our families and eat more food that you should in one sitting. For others, it’s the chance to take the day off to watch football and lounge around.
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BY JOE SHAY STIVALA HE EUPHORIA over the passing of the School Reform Commission will pass. After that, we will be hit with a BIG BILL for school underfunding. If we are smart, we will turn to Councilman Allan DOMB’S proposals to keep us solvent and AVOID an administration property-tax INCREASE. The BIG STORY is that there are three candidates for LT. GOVERNOR. One says he runs to get ready to run against Sen. TOOMEY.
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ny with several awards from 13 state, county and Wildwood, N.J., elected officials.... Also to 57th Ward Leader and ENERGY MAN Pat PARKINSON. And class guy Larry DE MARCO, Esq…. Murray COSTIN, ultimate political sage, had his born day with praise on Facebook! Get-WELL wishes to Frank Oliver, Leader of the powerful 29th Ward. BOILERMAKERS’ political officer Ed HARKINS rightly calls voting “Five minutes of activism, twice yearly.” That is all America requires of YOU. Farewell to Gen. Jim DiBELLA, who passed after a long fight with Cancer. He loved watching sunsets, but in Heaven his sun will be a rising one. The MISTRIAL of Sen. Bob MENENDEZ is welcomed as midterms approach, and DEMS need to be free of taint. Judge BAYLSON’S ruling on Sanctuary Cities is a (Cont. to Page 15) T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D
WALKING the BEAT
That seems like USING the office for SELF-PROMOTION or being less than dedicated to serve. Former lieutenant governors say that the office should be ABOLISHED. Easy to say when you have had your time in office! The CITY CONTROLLER-ELECT says that she will investigate the SHERIFF’S Office for mismanagement and sexual-harassment. Why not? It is a HEADLINE-GRABBER. But mismanagement? What reports of it? Much of the early mess was rectified by Acting-Sheriff Barbara DEELEY! And the Controller should stick to fiscal audits. There are ADEQUATE state and city agencies to investigate sexual harassment. BIRTHDAY greetings to super-patriot Harry WEIMAR. He set out last Saturday to present awards to all who supported HIS two massive convoys of relief supplies to Florida. He was surprised during the ceremo-
Vote! May 15, 2018
Nicholas DiDonato Jr Democrat
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hree former lieutenant governors testified at a Pennsylvania legislative hearing last week in support of a bill proposed by STATE SEN. DAVID ARGALL (R-Schuylkill). Argall’s bill would change the how Pennsylvania chooses its lieutenant governors. Currently, the lieutenant governor runs separately from the governor. Argall himself expressed interest in the lieutenant governor race in 2018, but stated that he would only run if he were supported by the
SCHWEIKER; and former LT. GOV. JIM CAWLEY, who served under GOV. TOM CORBETT. “As history has shown us, sometimes teams become true partners and sometimes they don’t,” Cawley said. “Do I think that in the end there a greater likelihood of a cohesion under this proposal? Certainly. But just like everything else, there are no guarantees.” Corbett, at the endorsement meeting at GOP State Committee in 2012, remained neutral on who should be his running mate. However, Corbett and Cawley had a very cordial and constructive relationship. Cawley is also a former Bucks County Commissioner and a native Philadelphian. Many Republicans had hoped Cawley would run for governor next year. While he would be attached to relatively unpopular former Gov. Corbett, he has the political acumen and (Cont. to Page 15) lem? @denisethewriter.) The School Reform Commission has voted to dissolve itself. Last week, the board voted 3-1-1 to give the School District of Philadelphia back to City of Philadelphia to manage. The “no” vote, to no one’s surprise, was from former SRC Chair Bill Green, who never met a teacher’s union he didn’t want to break, and the lone abstention came from Commissioner Farah Jimenez, who said she had concerns about what happens next for the district. Despite the jubilation that the SRC’s decision has brought to a lot of educational activists, I kinda have to agree with Jimenez on this one. I have questions. And a few concerns. One, are you sure that the Department of Education, the body that has to go along with this, is in your corner? I ask this because the whole reason the school district was snatched up by (Cont. Page 19)
Pa State Representative 184th Nicholas DiDonato, Jr. •Retired Police Officer •DA Detective •Proponent/Active Advocate of Public Safety •Seeking solutions for: o Cleaner Streets o Parking o Opposes the Soda Tax o Educational Funding o Healthcare William Keller • Representative for South Philadelphia-25 years • Has made being a politician his career
• Integrity/Transparency • Strong-willed, outspoken • Will provide South Philadelphia with a voice, will repre sent the people and not look to complete deals to benefit himself • Seeks to end party lines • Term Limits
• Politics as Usual • Invisible • Party Machine Puppet
We aren’t sure what Keller has done for South Philadelphia. How about you?
#didonato2018 facebook/twitter
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Republican front-runner for governor. Argall’s bill is, I believe, catching traction owing to the highly dysfunctional relationship between GOV. TOM WOLF and LT. GOV. MIKE STACK. The law, however, cannot be enacted in time to impact next year’s gubernatorial election. Argall introduced the bill earlier this year after it became known that Stack was under investigation by the Office of Inspector General for allegedly mistreating his state-funded mansion staff and security detail. A Pennsylvania House committee is also looking into Stack’s grocery bills after it was reported that Stack spent $30,000 on groceries since taking office in 2015. The three former lieutenant governors at the hearing were LT. GOV. MARK SINGEL, who served under the late GOV. ROBERT P. CASEY; LT. GOV. ROBERT JUBELIRER, who served under GOV. MARK But for Philadelphians, there’s more than a few things to be thankful for that are unique to us. For example…. The Philadelphia Eagles are 9-1 as we speak. For a football-mad town like Philadelphia, that’s a big deal. Despite the fact that a lot of their African American fans have decided not to sit down and watch the games this year, folks are pretty excited about the possibilities … which will probably include getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs despite having a first-round bye. (Yeah, I know. I wasn’t supposed to say that. But I’m an Oakland Raiders fan. You guys might be doing better than us right now, but this isn’t the year you get your Super Bowl ring. Sorry. Hope you prove me wrong, but as long as the New England Patriots are still making sure that the refs are compensated for their appearances, it ain’t gonna happen. Got a prob-
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Public Servants at Work (Cont. From Page 8) to announce a legislative and policy agenda that best reflects the needs of women of color in Pennsylvania. The kickoff event was a policy committee meeting and tour on Nov. 16 at the State Correctional Institution at Muncy. African American women represent 30% of incarcerated women in the United States, while they only represent 13% of the female population. In addition, Hispanic women represent 16% of incarcerated women but only 11% of all women.
Bullock Wangles Pedestrian Grant
Cruz Seeks Child Safety Following approval by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, State Rep. Angel Cruz (D-Kensington) announced a $500,000 grant has been awarded to the Streets Department to rehabilitate and improve safety infrastructure along corridors to seven public elementary and middle schools that have been identified as “high child-pedestrian crash schools” in Philadelphia. The project aims to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries in neighborhoods across the city, including Cramp, Tilden, Hamilton, Sullivan, Zeigler, Gideon and Solis-Cohen School. The funding will go toward the installation of stop bars, continental crosswalks, pavement markings, curb bump-outs, new ADA curb ramps, speed cushions,
pedestrian count-down signals and rapid-flashing beacons on routes to and at the schools. Cruz recently introduced HB 1096, legislation that would require the Department of Transportation to establish and administer a pilot program to place speed humps, or similar devices, in a minimum of one school zone within a school district located in each of the nine county classes throughout the Commonwealth. The legislation was referred to the Transportation Committee.
Brown Snags Trail Money State Rep. Vanessa Brown (D-W. Phila.) said state funding for the Parkside Cynwyd Trail has been approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. The Department of Parks & Recreation, in partnership with Lower Merion Township and SEPTA, will receive an $85,000 grant to help develop final plans and design for the trail. “Trails and greenways are often seen narrowly when it comes to their benefits. They bring much more than recreational and environmental benefits. The new Parkside Cynwyd Trail will help improve public health and strengthen the economy,” Brown said.
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State Rep. Donna Bullock (N. D-Phila.) announced state funding for the Philadelphia Streets Department has been approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. Streets will receive $436,340 to conduct Phase 2 pedestrian-safety improvements on Pennsylvania Avenue located near the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The grant will be used for roadway improvements, street lighting, pavement markings and traffic signal improvements.
“The area near the Philadelphia Art Museum is a very busy part of my district,” Bullock said. “I have spoken with countless residents on the need to increase safe pedestrian crosswalks and transportation delineation.”
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collected over 1,000 canned food and household items for veterans in need. On Saturday they delivered the goods to Philadelphia Veterans Comfort House. PVCH offers the opportunity for homeless veterans to have a place to feel at home, find some peace, and have an advocate in their corner while awaiting longterm housing. Former Republican mayoral hopeful DANA SPAIN is president of Comfort House’s board of directors. Philadelphia YR Chair Wolfe thanked all the Philadelphia YRs, as well as Pennsylvania Young Republicans FINANCE CHAIR CARL EPPOLITO, “for all of their hard work organizing this worthy initiative.”
(Cont. From Page 13) good one. His ruling on Joe DOUGHERTY – NOT SO GOOD. THE ACLU on Meek Mill chimed in with an op-ed on probation technical violations. It noted that 350,000 have signed an online petition to release MEEK MILL. Are they from the 1st Judicial District jurisdiction? It did not say. It noted that you may be sent to court if you violate the authority of the court. It said that means you offended the judge. REALLY? I will buy that writer a different brand of cigarettes. Meanwhile, BIG-MONEY advertising is seen by BIG-MONEY folks to free Mill. But what of ORDINARY PEOPLE in jail on probation violations? What of Tom, a few years ago, and Richard the other day, who got hit with BOCA GRANDE when calling to ask a question, and told he was not allowed (?). PPR_p015.indd 15
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interpersonal skills that Corbett seemed to lack. Cawley is currently the VP of institutional advancement at Temple University. Cawley has an undergraduate and law degree from Temple. Last Thursday, STATE REP. MARTINA WHITE (R-Northeast) held a fundraiser at the Union League’s Torresdale Country Club. Attendees included STATE REP. JOHN TAYLOR (R-Northeast), former Philadelphia mayoral candidate JOHN EGAN, Philadelphia Young Republicans CHAIRMAN ROSS WOLFE and Republican City Committee CHAIRMAN MICHAEL MEEHAN, as well as WARD LEADERS ROSS FEINBERG (10), MATT WOLFE (27), DENISE
FUREY (46) and BRIAN MCCANN (58). White is the youngest woman Rep. in the General Assembly. Since winning a special election in 2015 and re-election in 2016, she has authored more bills than all the Democrat Philadelphia state Reps. combined. Her HB 28 would hold “sanctuary cities” like Philadelphia accountable for losses incurred by people harmed by crimes committed by undocumented immigrants. Despite being the target of many protests and verbally abusive attacks, she is standing her ground on her concerns about sanctuary cities consistent with the wishes of her constituents in District 170. The Philadelphia YRs
• Carpet • Tile • Hardwood
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A Grateful City Congratulated Ryan Boyer DOLORES TAYOUN, wife of the late Philadelphia Public Record Publisher James Tayoun, knows Congressman Bob Brady will always stand with her.
NORA TRUSCELLO presented the “James Tayoun Public Servant of the Year” Award to LDC Business Manager Ryan N. Boyer.
L-R WERE Clinton Barnes, Harold Fisher, Congressman Bob Brady and Jocko Johnson.
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L-R WERE Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, Judge Maria McLaughlin and Philadelphia Public Record Publisher Greg Osberg.
L-R WERE Chris Wood, State Sen. Sharif Street, Council President Darrell Clarke, Congressman Bob Brady and Philadelphia Public Record Publisher Greg Osberg. Photos by Wendell Douglas
CONGRESSIONAL aide Donald “Ducky” Birts posed with Jim Tayoun’s wife Dolores Tayoun, R and his daughter Nora Truscello.
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DUCKY BIRTS holds up a montage he had made of illustrious Philadelphians – with Ryan Boyer now prominent among them.
PERIPATETIC political pros were, L-R, columnist Joe Stivala with Sue & Hal Rosenthal.
ALL CHEERED at the conclusion of Ryan Boyer’s moving acceptance speech.
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L-R were congressional aide Joe Campisi, Laborers Local 332 leader Sam Staten, Jr., LDC Business Manager Ryan Boyer and Jonathan Saidel.
CONGRATULATING Ryan Boyer were staff of the Philadelphia Public Record: L-R, Publisher Greg Osberg, Director of Operations Allison Murphy, Boyer, Sales Director Melissa Barrett, Managing Editor Tony West and Editor Greg Salisbury.
L-R were attorney Carmella Jacquinto, City Commissioner Lisa Deeley, honoree Ryan Boyer and NUHHCE Local 1199C President Chris Wood.
THE EXTENDED Boyer clan got together for this group shot.
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O! HERE we go again with something we should all read at least once a week! It was written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of Cleveland, Ohio. 1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good. 2. When in doubt, just take the next small step. 3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. 4. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch. 5. Pay off your credit cards every month. 6. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree. 7. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone. 8. It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it. 9. Save for retirement, starting with your first paycheck. 10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile. 11. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present. 12. It’s OK to let your children see you cry. 13. Don’t compare your life with others. You have no idea what their journey is all about. 14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it. 15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don’t worry; God never blinks. 16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind. 17. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful. 18. Whatever doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger. 19. It’s never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don’t take no for an answer. PPR_p017.indd 15
and make the most of it now. 36. Growing old beats the alternative – dying young. 37. Your children get only one childhood. 38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved. 39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere. 40. If we all threw our problems
in a pile and saw everyone 17 else’s, we’d grab ours back. 41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. 42. The best is yet to come. 43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up. 44. Yield. 45. Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift. T HE P UB L I C R E CO R D
most everything. Give time – time. 31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change. 32. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does. 33. Believe in miracles. 34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn’t do. 35. Don’t audit life. Show up
NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE - WHEREAS, on May 29, 2009, a certain mortgage was executed by William J. Leahan Jr., as mortgagor in favor of MetLife Home Loans, a Division of MetLife Bank, N.A. as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County in Mortgage Philadelphia Document Number 52072820 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 5920 North Ella Street Philadelphia, PA 19120, parcel number 612500100 / 147N11-41 (“Property”); and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by William J. Leahan Jr. and Agnes M. Leahan, his wife by virtue of deed dated December 7, 1965 and recorded December 14, 1965 in Book CAD 613; Page 247; and WHEREAS, Agnes M. Leahan died on February 3, 2008. By operation of law title vests solely in William J. Leahan Jr. and Agnes M. Leahan is hereby released of liability pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1144. William J. Leahan Jr. died on August 15, 2013 intestate and is survived by his heir(s)-at-law, Elizabeth Castaldi; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on 7/20/2012 in Philadelphia Document Number 52511117, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (a)(i)), as William J. Leahan, Jr. died on August 15, 2013, and that upon the death the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of November 1, 2016 is $133,115.77 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on September 29, 2011 in Misc. Instrument #: 52395684, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that on November 29, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Philadelphia City Hall located at Broad Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, DESCRIBED according to a Survey and Plan thereof made by Joseph F. Delany, Esquire, Surveyor and Regulator of the Fifth Survey District on the Twenty-Eighth day of May, A.D. 1952, as follows, to wit: SITUATE on the Westerly side of Ella Street (Fifty feet wide) at the distance of One Hundred Seventy-Four feet Three and One-Half inches Northwardly from the Northerly side of Nedro Avenue (Sixty feet wide) in the Forty-Second Ward of the City of Philadelphia. CONTAINING in front or breadth on the said Ella Street Sixteen feet, Three inches and extending of that width in length or depth Westwardly between parallel lines at right angles to the said Ella Street (the Northerly and Southerly lines thereof passing partly through the center of the party walls of the building erected on this lot and the buildings erected on the lots adjoining to the North and South thereof) eighty-five feet to a certain line of a certain fifteen feet wide driveway which extends Northwardly into Champlost Avenue (seventy feet wide) and Southwardly into the said Nedro Avenue. TOGETHER, with the free and common use, right, liberty and privilege of the aforesaid driveway and for passageway, driveways, and watercourses at all times hereafter, forever, in common with the owners, tenants, and occupiers of the other lots of ground bounding thereon and entitled to the use thereof. SUBJECT, however, to the proportionate share of the expense of keeping said driveway in good order and repair. BEING No. 5920 North Ella Street. BEING PARCEL NUMBER 61-2-5001-00. The sale will be held on November 29, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Philadelphia City Hall located at Broad Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $133,115.77 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale. The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $133,115.77 as of November 1, 2016, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein.
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the WAFFLE MAN
one is in charge of your happiness but you. 26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: “In five years, will this matter?” 27. Always choose life. 28. Forgive everyone everything. 29. What other people think of you is none of your business. 30. Time heals al-
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21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets and wear the fancy lingerie. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special. 22. Overprepare, and then go with the flow. 23. Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple. 24. The most important sex organ is the brain. 25. No
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MARK your CALENDAR (Cont. from Page 6) 5:30-7:30 p.m. For info: (215) 821-7606 or re.elect.johnsabatina@gmail.com. Dec. 12- P h i l a . Flyers host “Charitable Organization of the Night” for Phila. Veterans Comfort Ho. at Wells-Fargo Ctr., Broad St. & Pattison Ave. 7 p.m. Flyers vs. Maple Leafs. Tickets $50. Benefits PVCH, which serves homeless veterans. For tickets: Rania Major (215) 837-3250. Dec. 13- P a . Soc. meets at N.Y. Hilton Midtown, 1335 Ave. of Americas, N.Y.C. For info: (215) 233-2650. Dec. 21- S t a t e Rep. Emilio Vázquez hosts Constituent Meet & Greet at Susquehanna Villa, 1421 W. Susquehanna Ave., 3 p.m.
POLS on the STREET (Cont. From Page 4) Marks, Stack’s campaign spokesman, “that began long before the age of Trump.” Stack, an active Army Reserve member, has good ties with veterans. He shored up his hometown base during 14 years in the Pennsylvania Senate and is working on matters important to Philadelphia such as restorative justice. In 2014, Stack won half the vote in a five-way contested primary that included a former Member of Congress, a member of the state legislature, a county com-
missioner and a municipal elected official. Since then, he’s been all across the state in myriad local venues. With three other ducks in the water, some Philly Democratic politicos, especially of the progressive breed, will be tempted to step outside and back an out-of-town politician for lieutenant governor. But it’s hard to see why many Democrats in our home town would want to reduce Philadelphia’s influence in Harrisburg to zero by eliminating Stack.
LEGAL NOTICE AT&T proposes to modify an existing facility (new tip heights 135’) on the building at 5501 Old York Rd, Philadelphia, PA (20171062). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.
LEGAL NOTICE TO: “Steven,” last name unknown A Petition has been filed asking the court to put an end to all rights you have to your child Baby Girl Ordile who was born on 6/25/17 at Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, as well as any rights E.O. has to Baby Girl Ordile. The court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child. That hearing will be held on December 14, 2017 at 9:00 a.m., One Montgomery Plaza, Swede Street, Courtroom #15, Orphan’s Court Division, Norristown, PA 19404 before Judge Austin. 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 as well as the rights of E.O. 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
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Journalist of the Year), Terry Gross, host of the iconic WHYY program “Fresh Air” and…. Me. I’ve been nominated for Best Community Reporter this year, and believe me, no one is more shocked about this than I am. I also appreciate it im-
mensely because it shows that if no one else is paying attention to what I do, a lot of people that I respect for their work do. And whether I win or not, I have that. That said, I would like to win. So please take a minute to vote for me, the other folks I’ve mentioned, or anyone else you might
Republicans Hear Health Pro
THE REPUBLICAN LEAGUE met at Paddy Whack’s this month to hear Dr. Robert I. Field, Professor of Law and Professor of Health Management and Policy with Drexel University’s Thomas R. Kline School of Law and Dornsife School of Public Health. Dr. Field presented on health care and potential changes or reforms to the ACA, or Obamacare. Dr. Field is an acknowledged expert on the subject and has rendered policy advice to the government. Photo by Wendell Douglas
PUBLIC RECORD CLASSIFIEDS SMALL ADS BIG DEALS
Bid Notices: ezIQC® (indefinite quantity construction contracts) GC, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Civil Pre-Bid Meetings in 6 regions across the commonwealth.
Go to the Keystone Purchasing Network at www.theKPN.org for locations and bid information. Bid openings Dec 4 & 5, 2017. Collectibles: $CASH$ PAID INSTANT-
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think worthy of your sup- 19 port, go to this link: https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdtPWVlpDWjGQ3je8CoYAUJ2xOZ4qxQgU5LaeB0S9Y3qsLHXQ/viewform Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m headed to the 6ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade. Happy Thanksgiving! T HE S O U T H PHIL A D EL PHI A P UB L I C R E CO R D
where venality shouldn’t be. But the people pushing for this are kinda committed to it, so they’re pushing for a vote to find out the public’s thoughts. My feeling is, sure, let’s do that. But make sure that you’re being honest with people about exactly what they’re inviting into their school district. There are certain things to which the word “surprise” should never be attached. Last, but not least… The nominees for the Philadelphia Media Awards have been announced, and a lot of people that you either read or listen to or watch every day are among them. Folks like Chris Brennan of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Vincent Thompson of WURD (he got nominated in two categories), Ryan Briggs of City & State PA, Chris Murray of the Philadelphia Sunday Sun, Errin Haines Whack of the Associated Press (the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists current Print
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(Cont. From Page 13) the group of recalcitrant 4-year-olds who have been running it for the last 16 years is because the district was considered distressed, meaning that it was lacking a valid budget and an educational program in compliance with state laws. Considering the financial hole that the School District has stayed in since Paul Vallas became the district’s first CEO back in 2001, and the fact that this hole has grown into the billions (!) since, I kinda wonder if this is the Commonwealth’s way of admitting defeat and pushing it back onto the plate of a city with a 26% poverty rate. While State Sen. Vincent Hughes, Democratic chair of the Appropriations Committee, says this decision won’t let the Commonwealth off the hook from its constitutional obligation to fund the district, it hasn’t
really done right by it for the 16 years it’s controlled it. I also want to know what’s going to happen with the new school board this is going to create. The plan is to go back to the days when the mayor, in this case, Mayor Jim Kenney, appoints the board. Instead of leaving it with just him, there will also be a board of people who select the appointees and oversight from City Council in the form of confirmation hearings. For some, however, that’s not enough. They want a school board elected by the people. Were we not talking about the same people that I couldn’t get to come into my classroom and talk to me about their child’s grades when I was teaching in the district, I’d feel a little more excited about that. But we’re not. Thus, I’m not. Also, I’ve had some experience covering elected school boards. It’s all the venality of politics in a place
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