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Vol. XIII No. 51

Issue 934

December 21, 2017

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

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GOV. TOM WOLF came to Philadelphia’s City Hall to dramatize his act of vetoing SB 3, which Republican majorities in the General Assembly had passed. SB3 would ban abortions after 20 weeks, without exceptions for rape, incest, health of the mother, or birth defects in the child.

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“This legislation is an attempt to criminalize the decisions that women make about their own health care, and this legislation destroys health-care options for victims of the horrors of rape and incest. For these reasons, I am vetoing this bill today,” Wolf said.

Since 18 senators had voted against the bill – more than one-third of that chamber – the governor’s veto is unlikely to be overridden.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

HOLIDAY PARTY ROUNDUP! 12/20/2017 10:40:48 AM

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Nativity Scene Honors Jim Tayoun ARCHBISHOP Charles Chaput unveiled the annual Nativity scene in front of SS. Peter & Paul Basilica on Logan Square. This year, it was named in honor of Councilman James Tayoun, former publisher of the Philadelphia Public Record, who for long was instrumental in the private volunteer effort to produce this sacred display. Photo by Wendell Douglas

Celebrating 125 Years of Trolleys D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

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KIM SCOTT HEINLE, SEPTA assistant general manager of customer service & advocacy, was joined by staffers, some in 1892 period garb at the agency’s Elmwood District, to launch the commemorative trolley 1892 trolley.

Hanukkah Parade Shines

TREETCARS —once pulled by horses —have been on Philadelphia’s roads since 1858. But on Dec. 15, 1892, the city received a “shock” to its transit system: that’s when the electric trolley hit the city’s rails for the first time, on the Catharine-Bainbridge Line.

SEPTA hosted an anniversary celebration to commemorate 125 years of electric streetcar service in Philadelphia, including the unveiling of a current trolley specially wrapped to resemble an 1892 streetcar. The anniversary trolley will operate on SEPTA Routes 11, 13, 34 and 36 in Southwest

Local 401 Hails Season IRONWORKERS Local 401 threw a wingding of a holiday party at their Norcom Road HQ. Merry Christmas to Kevin Boyle and all the crew!

Photo by Wendell Douglas

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LUBAVITCHER Jews organized a rollicking vehicle parade from Logan Square to I n d ep en d en c e Mall, where the city’s public menorah was lit.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

FIREFIGHTERS Local 22 teamed up with Council President Darrell Clarke and others to give away warm winter coats to hundreds of schoolchildren at Spring Garden Elementary School.

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Coat Giveaway

Philadelphia over the next year.

The Catharine-Bainbridge Line, no longer in operation, was Philadelphia’s first horse-drawn streetcar line, as well as its first electric trolley line.

SEPTA’s Route 11 is the oldest trolley line in Philadelphia still operating over a considerable portion of its original route. Horsecar service over that route, operating from 32nd Street & Woodland Avenue to 9th & Main Streets in Darby, Pa., commenced on Dec. 24, 1858. The line was electrified on May 29, 1894 and was extended to Front & Chestnut Streets on Aug. 17, 1896.

Teamsters Are Family TEAMSTERS 830 Secretary Treasurer/Business Manager Danny Grace, rear, brought his granddaughter Bella Grace, L, and members of the Minniti family to see Santa at the union’s Christmas party on Townsend Road.

Photo by Wendell Douglas

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12/20/2017 10:41:47 AM

Feast of the Seven Fishes: What It Stands For

BY JOE SBARAGLIA O! HERE WE go again with this explanation of the feast of seven fish. I do not claim to know the “official” explanation (if there is one) to the feast. This is what we remember about it. Grandpop Achille would say, “That was the way it has always been done and that was the way it was going to be done on that day … period.”

Imagine, it is late after-

The first course was any type of shellfish. Only the poor ate them in the days of Christ. Christians in those times were the poor.

Baccalà is codfish and is the next course. Baccalà is filleted and salt-cured to preserve it, as there was no refrigeration in days of old.

It was a common fish and a staple of all the people. Like Baccalà, Christianity embraces the lives of all people.

Stockfish was served next. It is also codfish, but it is sun-dried, like the sun that bore down on the workers in Christ’s time. Christ also labored in the heat of the sun to bring his message to the world.

Squid or calamari is served next and it tentacles symbolize the extensive teaching of Christ.

The eel is served next as it symbolizes the speed with which Christianity has spread throughout the world.

Whiting or merluzzo was an abundant fish. It represents the abundance of love that Christ had for all mankind.

Smelts are small fish and represent the fact that the smallest and humblest of God’s creatures are still love

by Christ.

Also served in our home was broccoli rabe. These bitter greens remind us of the bitter times that Christ endured in his lifetime.

These seven courses are served in many different recipes. Some are delicious and some are simply tasted, for they may not be one’s favorite food. In some homes, they serve 13 fish courses; but sev-

en or 13, the fish must be as fresh as possible and everyone must eat some of each dish. Zia Maria would say, “What-za-mad-der, you sick or some-a-thing? Eat some more fish!”

For the Med-i-cans, and anyone else who is curious and wants to experience the feast, many good restaurants offer this specialty on Christmas Eve. Reservations are usually required as this is a very popular event.

This traditional Italian feast is a wonderful way to get the family and friends together and really “catch” the Christmas (and Christian) spirit – not with a rod and reel, but with ties to our past, and a legacy to our future. So, as Zia Maria would say, “Mange!”

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as well as the body. It is called the Christmas Eve Fish Feast or the feast of seven fish.

This annual event is not as strictly structured as the Jewish Seder nor does it have any rules of religious conduct or sanctions. It is simply a wonderful tradition that gives a little meaning to Christmas and Christianity.

On Christmas Eve evening, we eagerly awaited the final preparation of the seven-fish feast. It took a lot of cooking by the ladies to get everything to the table at the same time. Everyone pitched in and helped, as we were anxious to enjoy this feast. As the name implies, there were seven courses of fish served.

The type of fish and the manner of preparation varied, but I will try to explain the significance of course.

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the WAFFLE MAN

noon on Christmas Eve; the thousand and one things that have to be done for Christmas are completed.

Do you still feel like there is something missing in this joyous season? I always do.

It seems the religious aspects of Christmas are being lost to crass commercialism. Like it or not, Christmas is a religious holiday.

Through the years it has become a buying frenzy, with a never-ending list of items to get, and things to do. Christmas traditions have been colored green as in $$$, and the real spirit of this day is being lost. The Italians and Italian American families realize it. We Italians are doing Christmas the Med-i-can way according to our means, but we have one tradition that nourishes the religious spirit

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12/20/2017 11:07:53 AM

Deeley Rises to Command City Commission

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POLS on the STREET

BY JOE SHAHEELI HERE’S A NEW chair at Philadelphia City Commission.

Democrat Lisa Deeley, who was elected to that body in 2015, was nominated as chairwoman by Republican Al Schmidt at City Commission’s monthly board meeting on Dec. 13. Schmidt had always previously supported

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Representative

Vanessa Lowery Brown D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

190th Legislative District

Democrat Anthony Clark for that post.

Chairman Clark had earlier announced his plan to retire when his term expires in 2019. Insiders report that Deeley and Schmidt have been conferring on this transition of power at least since September. Since it was inevitable, the only question was the timing.

The city may wind up with a City Commission that enjoys a new lease on life.

For 20 years or more, this office, which administers elections, has been accused – usually with little evidence – of corruption and incompetence. In fact, its mission – to carry out elections fairly, accurately and honestly with limited resources – has been well honored for at least a generation. This is Boies Penrose’s Philly no more.

Yet major-media critics have

often obsessed over the fact the three city commissioners are elected, not appointed. Voters should not have any say over who organizes their voting, say the critics.

With the accession of Deeley to the chair, look for these cries to die down for lack of fuel. Both Deeley and Schmidt have a reputation for competence and honesty. Both are young (by Philadelphia standards) and energetic.

Deeley grew up in a political family (her mother Barbara Deeley is a former sheriff) and is gifted at community outreach – an important task for a public officer whose job is to facilitate and encourage people to vote.

Schmidt holds a PhD. An affable numbers nerd, he has ramped up City Commission’s website and reporting.

His professional analysis of noncitizen voting has won

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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

“Paid for with Pennsylvanian taxpayer dollars”

Sharif

Street

1621 W. Jefferson Street Philadelphia, PA 19121

2733 N. 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19133

215-425-5708

215-271-9190

Anthony Hardy Williams

State Senator

197th Legislative District Office

184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

State Senator

nationwide attention.

The voters may have picked a winning team in 2015. Two years later, it is taking over.

Jockeying for position will now take off among the Ward Leaders of Color caucus, which all observers expect will exert

Emilio Vazquez

William Keller

Always Hard At Work for You!

The Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey Region of American Jewish Committee presented its 2017 Civic Achievement Award to Henry Nicholas, president, Philadelphia Hospital & Health Care Employees District 1199C, at the Warwick Hotel. A lifelong activist, Mr. Nicholas stood alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., and other stalwarts of the civil-rights movement in the 1960s. His workers’-rights career began when he led the campaign to organize his co-workers at his first health-care job. L-R were AJC Philadelphia President Morris Gocial; Co-Chair W. Wilson Goode, Sr.; Nicholas; Gov. Tom Wolf, Velma Goode; Mayor Jim Kenney; and AJC Regional Director Marcia Bronstein.

State Representative

State Rep.

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

AJC Honors Henry Nicholas

215-227-6161

Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

State Rep. Jason

great influence on the choice of the successful second Democratic nominee in 2019. On your mark, get set, go!

ambitious, up-and-coming donkeys at this event. The timing is right and the price is right.

Young Dems Party on the Blvd.

‘Mayor’s Voice’ Hitt Moves on

Lisa Deeley’s first public venture in her new office is a guest appearance at Philadelphia Young Democrats’ Holiday Party. This will take place at Chickie’s & Pete’s on Roosevelt Boulevard tomorrow, Dec. 22, 6-8 p.m. It’s free.

Expect to find a stream of

Lauren Hitt, who has won wide respect for her service to Mayor Jim Kenney, both on his campaign and in office, is en route to a new assignment elsewhere.

Sources have told City&State PA that Hitt, a (Cont. Next Page)

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

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

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

Kevin J.

Youngblood

Taylor

Donatucci

Greenlee

State Rep.

Rep. Rosita

STATE REP.

Rep.Maria P.

Councilman Wm.

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

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

215-686-3454 or 3455

www.phlcouncil.com/CherelleParker

Facebook: CouncilwomanCherelleLParker Twitter: @CherelleParker9

12/20/2017 11:23:33 AM

(Cont. From Prev. page) spokesperson and longtime aide to Kenney, will exit the administration in January.

Multiple City Hall sources, both inside and outside the Mayor’s Office, acknowledged that Hitt has made plans to leave. Several sources said she is bound for Democrat Randy Bryce’s high-profile campaign against U.S. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, in Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District.

Few in City Hall are closer to the mayor than his director of communications. A University of Pennsylvania alumna, Hitt returned to Philadelphia to serve on lawyer Ken Trujillo’s short-lived mayoral bid in the 2015 race. After he abruptly dropped out, Hitt and other staffers quickly migrated to then-Councilman Kenney’s nascent campaign.

Tax Bill May Open Dem Doors

over principle. This vote proves Pat Meehan has forgotten his roots. He is a firm follower of Donald Trump and Paul Ryan and has chosen their vision for the nation over the wishes of his constituents.”

City Republicans Issue Manifesto In an unprecedented move, Republican City Committee Chairman Michael Meehan released a GOP position paper outlining a critique of the Philadelphia Democratic Party’s deeds during 2017. It is an effort to frame a coherent urban Republican message for the year to come.

“Over the past year, the Democratic leadership of Philadelphia has become focused on ‘virtue signaling’ their adherence to a progressive agenda, rather than implementing the necessary changes to increase quality of life for the average Philadelphia resident. While we saw, at their hands, a call for (Cont. Page 9)

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The passage of the Repub-

lican tax bill in Washington, D.C. may create opportunities for Democratic congressional candidates next year, if it remains as unpopular among the public as it is at this time.

Congressman Bob Brady (D-Phila.) is in no danger of losing his seat in the general election. But he laid out the case for his fellows to follow, saying, “Protestors had it right as they shouted ‘shame, shame, shame,’ as House Republicans passed this $1.5-trillion tax bill. It is a lie that this is a middle-class tax cut. The truth is that the bill will raise taxes on 86 million middle class households, it will raise income taxes on the working poor, it robs Medicare and Medicaid and gives a major tax cut to the rich and corporations.

Dan Muroff, Democratic candidate in the 7th Congressional District, took immediate aim at his target, saying, “With his vote supporting the GOP tax bill, today Pat Meehan proves his loyalty to party

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POLS on the STREET

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BOB BRADY is honored by the acquaintance of these fine ladies: Diane Suttles, L, and Angela Medley. Photo by Wendell Douglas

C O U N C I LMAN Curtis Jones, Jr. was flanked here by Robert L. Fortt and Gwen Fortt.

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Brady Hosts a Neighborhood Holiday Affair

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MAKING merry were, L-R, Art Soll, Rich Subbio, Floyd Wedderburn, Raymond Smith and Courtney Mooney.

BRYANT LEE, R, was pleased to give season’s greetings to Bob Brady.

ENJOYING the sumptuous banquet were, L-R, Desiree Gervin, Connie White and James Wade.

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DEMOCRATIC City Committee legend Charlie Bernard, seated, enjoyed the company of Vince Primavera and Carmella Jacquinto.

D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

34TH WARD LEADER (aka “Congressman”) Bob Brady threw his annual holiday party at Anthony’s Ristorante, an Overbrook Park offshoot in Drexel Hill. Loretta Lewis received a congressional citation.

L-R were State Rep. Morgan Cephas, City Commission Chair Lisa Deeley, Lewis and Brady. Photo by Wendell Douglas

12/20/2017 10:44:22 AM

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TACONY Arts Lab held a holiday workshop for children.

Surprise visitors were Santa Claus (aka Councilman Bobby Henon) and Mayor Jim Kenney! L-R were Maria Moeller, Kenney, Henon, Judy Rodriguez and Chase Rodriguez. Photo by Bill Myers

Green’s Toys Haywood’s ACA

(Cont. From page 5) harmless statues to ‘drop,’ we also saw harmful violence ‘rise.’ “ Meehan ticked off DA Seth Williams’ disgrace, Councilwoman Helen Gym’s crusade against the Frank Rizzo statue, Mayor Jim Kenney’s sparring with the Trump administration over sanctuary-city status and incoming DA Larry Krasner’s adversarial record with police. He cited a rise in homicides, high rates of poverty and unemployment, and shaky performance of the Sweetened Drinks Tax .

communities or on our college campuses,” he said.

Kenyatta is running for is currently occupied bylong-serving State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas, Jr. Rumors persist that Thomas

may step down this year, 9 but he has not confirmed this. In recent elections he has drawn persistent primary challenges.

Kenyatta is a 2012 grad(Cont. Page 11)

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Santa Bob Gives Art

POLS on the STREET

2 State Rep Hopefuls Step Forward

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D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

COUNCILMAN Derek Green and his team handed out gift-wrapped holiday toys at Circles Lounge in Logan. L-R were Tonya Woods, Sharon Vaughn, Green, Kyra Harris and Rochelle Gordon. Photo by Wendell Douglas

STATE Treasurer Joe Torsella worked with State Sen. Art Haywood to enroll Northwest Philadelphians in Affordable Care Act insurance; the city saw strong overall response as the enrollment deadline approached. L-R, front, were Haywood, Torsella and Haywood’s Chief of Staff Dwight Lewis; rear, Kevin Carmody, Devin Ellis and Darnell Hudson. Photo

by Wendell Douglas

There is new action and competition in Democratic primary for state representative races.

Malcolm Kenyatta, candidate in North Central’s 181st Legislative District, took aim at racist fliers found this week on the campus of Temple University.

“Hatred, demonization and racism have no place in our

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12/20/2017 11:18:49 AM

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ELEPHANT CORNER

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D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

HE PHILADELPHIA Parking Authority named STATE REP. SCOTT PETRI (R-BUCKS) as its new executive director on Friday. Petri’s appointment comes more than a year after VINCE FENERTY, the former executive director, resigned amid sexual-harassment allegations. Since then, CLARENA TOLSON has served as interim executive director.

Tolson had wanted the permanent job, but it appears the board had reservations about her abilities. The selection of Petri follows a 15-month

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

BY DENISE CLAY VER THE YEARS I’ve spent covering politics, I’ve found that you can find out how effective a politician is or isn’t by observing his or her press office.

That’s because a good press office can make you look like you were formed out of clay and given the breath of life by the Political Gods, while a bad press office can make you look like walking and chewing gum simultaneously is a challenge you can’t quite meet.

Most of Philadelphia’s

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search performed by an independent executive recruiting firm. Tolson remain at the PPA as deputy executive director for strategic planning and public engagement, with a focus on employee training.

Petri was formerly the chairman of the state’s Urban Affairs & Ethics Committee and the vice chair of the Appropriations Committee. Prior to becoming a state rep, Petri ran two small law firms in Pennsylvania. His stint on the Ethics Committee and his reputation for playing by the rules made him a good candidate.

Tolson had been criticized for creating a brand-new position and filing it with her daughter’s roommate.

The selection of someone of high ethical repute is optimal in light of AUDITOR GENERAL EUGENE PASQUALE’S recent report criticizing the PPA’s operations. Petri said he read the auditor general’s report “cover to cover.” He stated, “I intend to review each and every new policy or procedure to

ensure that the operations are run with the best practices and the highest ethical standards.”

Petri will begin his role as executive director on Jan. 2, 2018. I anticipate the State House will call a special election for his seat early next year.

STATE SEN. DAYLIN LEACH (D-Montgomery) announced Monday that he was “taking a step back” from his congressional campaign to address allegations from eight women and three men claiming that Leach has what many in Harrisburg are describing as an “Al Franken Problem.”

Leach did not specify whether he was abandoning or just suspending his bid for Democrat nomination to take on CONGRESSMAN PATRICK MEEHAN (R-Delaware). His lawyer, GEORGE BOCHETTO, said, “It doesn’t mean he’s quitting” the race.

“I think he just wants to pause and reflect.” Bochetto’s law partner is Leach’s brother. Bochetto is a Republican.

(Cont. Page 14)

politicos know this. Many of them have press offices like well-oiled machines that produce the kind of messaging that not only gets the word out to constituents about what said politician has been up to on their behalf, but makes people, particular those of us in the press, consider them whenever the talk of certain higher offices comes up.

But some, either because it’s an inexperienced staff that knows enough to be dangerous, or because the politico in question has a problem staying out of his or her own way, have trouble accentuating their positives.

Heck, some of them tend to have the kind of turnover that makes even the most unemployed former press officer say “Thanks, but no thanks!”

To that list of press offices that might need an upgrade, or a new person to work for, add the press office of State Rep. Daylin Leach. Leach, who is running for Congress, was the subject of the latest

#metoo moment thanks to a Philadelphia Inquirer story detailing his assignations between him and two women who worked on the Montgomery County lawmaker’s re-election campaign.

He released a statement that blamed his opponents, his female accusers, his sense of humor (!) and the media before touting his record on women’s issues.

And this was the official statement from his office. I won’t get into the now-deleted Facebook post.

If you’re running a press office for an elected official, this kind of thing shouldn’t be happening. How your client looks to his constituents on matters like this can be the difference between forgiveness and having to renew your law/teaching/ Uber Driving license.

Rep. Leach has since suspended his Congressional campaign, which this kind of demanded. But it’ll be interesting to see if he (Cont. Page 14)

WALKING the BEAT

BY JOE SHAY STIVALA he PARKING AMNESTY BILL passed City Council. Praise God! This is REAL, not fake, REFORM. VERY OLD parking tickets can now be written off. They are NOT COLLECTIBLE for the most part – but cost taxpayers BIG BUCKS to try to collect them! Sure, you can tow the 1988 Chevy of the ticket-holder and sell it for a fraction of the amount due – minus towing costs.

Is that wise finance from the City Finance Department?

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CITY HALL SAM

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T IS NOW STATE SEN. DAYLIN LEACH’S turn.

The Inquirer published a story analyzing numerous cases of inappropriate words and actions which amount to sexual harassment. The typical Inquirer story uses anonymous sourcing and innuendo, but it spells big trouble for the congressional candidate.

Leach is in a democratic primary with Philadelphia WARD LEADER DAN MUROFF and Montco resident DREW McGINTY for the chance to face Republican CONGRESSMAN PAT

Other cities have MILLIONS or thousands in UNPAID TICKETS as well, and are LIVING with it. Parking fines have been called a SUBLIMINAL TAX. The hammering of poor folks for old tickets has been called “mean” and the citizens called “victims.” I agree. Thank you, City Council, for the COURAGE TO ACT in this holy season!!

City Council SHOULD NOT RECALL the Parking Amnesty Bill. They have made MANY FRIENDS with citizens on passage.

Many owing for old tickets VOTED for Mayor KENNEY. But when Kenney came to office, he made NO CHANGES in the parking hearings office, the B.A.A. at 9th & Filbert. A move there would show change. So why consider amendments now? Let Finance Department Chief Rob DUBOW figure something else out.

Mayor Kenney, avoid being EBENEZER SCROOGE. “Loose thy bonds, and let

the oppressed go free.”

To his great credit, Mayor KENNEY had a fine OPED piece in the daily press on how the G.O.P. TAX bill would cut jobs and increase the city’s tax burden.

The alleged TAX CUT bill is a SNEAKY way to hurt Obamacare as well – when they could not do it in the open. The trick is to pass it during the holidays when no one is focused on it. It takes no spinal column to do this.

A fine Mass of Healing and Hope was held for recovery of Ceilie DOUGHERTY in the Shrine of St. John Neumann with a good turnout, and many prayers continuing on.

GREAT NEWS is the election of Barbara DEELEY as leader of the City Commissioners!... City Commissioner Al SCHMIDT was impressive in testimony on voting by noncitizens before TWO SENATE COMMITTEES. City Councilman Kenyatta JOHNSON IS correct (Cont. Page 13)

MEEHAN in the general election.

GOV. TOM WOLF has already called for Leach’s resignation. It will be a roller-coaster ride for Leach for a while. If one has paid attention to the national news and the phenomenon of political destruction for sexual harassment, the question is: Who will be next?

Former Northeast Philadelphia resident and internationally known media pundit CHRIS MATTHEWS is now being accused of inappropriate behavior dating back to 1992.

Matthews hails from the Somerton neighborhood and was a former top aide to U.S. SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE TIP O’NEILL. It’s stunning that PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, a self-proclaimed serial sexual harasser, is able to sneer at such charges while others are destroyed.

U.S. SEN. AL FRANKEN was also accused of sexual harassment. He apolo-

gized immediately for his conduct, but then decided to resign after many of his fellow Senate Democrats asked him to resign. Franken will stick around to vote on the big health-care and tax votes, but it’s all over for him with this scandal.

Wolf and LT. GOV. MIKE STACK were joined by Transportation SEC. LESLIE RICHARDS to light the menorah for the first day of Hanukkah in the State Capitol. Stack and Wolf also attended the Capital Christmas-tree lighting together.

Former STATE SEN. VINCE FUMO will be hosting a holiday party at his five-story mansion on Green Street this week.

The more time the senator has spent outside the confines of Ashland federal prison, the more his clout seems to build. The event will likely be a full house and have numerous big shots from around Philadelphia political and business (Cont. Page 13) 12/20/2017 11:20:20 AM

groups for his votes in support of school funding, environmental protection and medical marijuana.

Vote! May 15, 2018

Nicholas DiDonato Jr Democrat

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

11

• Integrity/Transparency • Strong-willed, outspoken • Will provide South Philadelphia with a voice, will represent 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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D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

(Cont. From page 9) uate of Temple University who studied public communications and political science.

Longtime State Rep. James Roebuck, Jr. (D-W. Phila.) will face a primary challenger next year.

The incumbent, now in his 16th term in office, will square off against former deputy city solicitor and progressive political newcomer Jeff Curry. The Temple Law grad outlined his support for school funding, affordable health care and higher wages – while taking a thinly veiled shot at Roebuck’s long tenure in the 188th District.

“We must demand that our elected representatives fight for everyone in the 188th District. We have not had a fighter for a long time,” read a campaign press release announcing Curry’s candidacy. “There is no one who will work harder, listen to more voices, and look after everyone in this District than Jeff.”

The 72-year-old Roebuck has faced several tough primaries in recent years. But he has generally earned high marks from liberal

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POLS on the STREET

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12/20/2017 11:19:38 AM

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Giving Takes Teamwork The News in Black & White

OPINION

W D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

E ARE ALWAYS impressed how hard Philadelphia’s civic leaders work to bring holiday cheer into the lives of our needy citizens.

This is especially important in a city with a high poverty rate. While the ultimate goal is to bring prosperity to all our citizens 365 days a year, simple decency requires that all Philadelphians share the light at

least in holiday times. No one can flourish in a community where the holiday spirit is a privilege; common happiness even for the least fortunate is a right.

Our hats are off to the public servants, religious bodies and labor unions that pull together great acts of giving.

Most impressive, though, is not the role of their leaders; it is the role of the followers and contributors who pitch in. Giving on a large scale is never the product of one person’s brilliance or power; it reflects the fellowship and cooperation of us all. Together, we are great. Together, we are good.

We hope some of this collaborative spirit lingers in Philadelphia after the last empty paper cup is swept

off Broad Street on Jan. 2.

That’s because this is a city that needs to grow, and that actually can grow in this decade. It is no longer seen as crusty, but as dynamic.

But to take advantage of this position, we must see each other as comrades, not adversaries. Our political parties must work together. Our government leaders, our business leaders, our labor leaders and our educational leaders must work together. While it is right that they should hold different points of view on occasion, their aim should always be to boost everyone rather than to beat someone.

If they carry out this mission well in 2018, they won’t have to work so hard to spread holiday cheer among the less fortunate next year.

INNOVATIVE community outreach was pioneered by three state representatives – L-R, Jordan Harris, Joanna McClinton and Jim Roebuck – who held a joint town hall meeting at Richard Allen Charter School on Lindbergh Boulevard to address area-wide concerns in Southwest Philadelphia, parts of which they all serve. Photo by Wendell Douglas

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Blackwell Throws Huge Party for Homeless

Plenty of donated bikes for kids were on hand and watched over by 24th Ward Leader Bernadette Wyche and Percy “Buster” Custus of the famed James Shuler Boxing Gym.

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C O U N C I LW O M A N Jannie Blackwell, C, has been called a “one person Department of Human Services” due to her incredible capability to organize year-round massive assistance for the needy. She is tireless in her caring. Volunteers Peter Wilson, 6th Ward Leader of Ward 6, and Democratic activist Tutti Edwards helped her massive Holiday Party for the Homeless at the Convention Center.

Photos by Joe Stivala

KIDS GOT complimentary haircuts by volunteer stylists.

THE FOOD LINES were long, but there was no end to a large variety of culinary delights to fill empty stomachs.

THE MASONIC Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania sound stage provided a variety of music to entertain the 4,000 party-goers.

COUNCILWOMAN Jannie Blackwell, 2nd from L, chats with homeless guests along with volunteers Yvonne Money, Democratic Women president, L, and Bernadette Wyche, 3rd from L.

SANTA had a full-time job talking with the many needy kids who were happy to receive gifts.

12/20/2017 10:52:45 AM

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

AT&T proposes to collocate antennas (tip heights 133’ and 189’) on the building at 6100 City Line Avenue, Philadelphia, PA (20171136).

Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

AT&T proposes to collocate antennas (tip heights 123’) on the building at 1033 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA (20171161). 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

League filed suit claiming corruption and discrimination in the squad. It will be good to air this out and provide fresh air there. I remember getting a haircut in an EMPTY barbershop when a confidential informant (CI) said he made a buy from the barber (?). The concept of the CI, to me, has always been a heinous tool in a nation

where we face our accuser.

In this wonderful HANUKKAH season, handsome Chase ROMAN had his Bar Mitzvah. His parents Ed and Judge Tracy ROMAN are beaming at what a gem God has wrought!... There was no spinning the DREIDEL at SHARI-ELI Synagogue, where Presenter Joe COSTIN keeps the spirit of Hanukkah

alive! Joe just bought a home, 13 preparatory to marriage with a SHANA MADEL. Greetings to AGELESS BIRTHDAY persons: Court expert Mike IACONELLI; Public Record photographer Harry LEECH; former Managing Director Ken MARTZ; LOVELY Lisa Touni SABATINA; and – on Christmas Day – Judge James DE LEON!

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Notice of Name Change In the Court of Common Pleas of Phila. County, PA Nov. Term 2017 No. 02335 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 11/23/2017, the Petition of TERESA DEL CARMEN HUARCAYA, was filed in the above-named Court, praying for a Decree to change her name to TERIAM GLORY FERNANDEZ. The Court has fixed 2/2/2018, at 9:30 A.M. in Courtroom 691, City Hall, Broad & Market Streets, Phila., PA, as the time and place for the hearing of said Petition, when and where all persons interested may appear and show cause, if any they have, why the prayer of the said Petition should not be granted.

Alexander J. Ginsburg, Esq., Attorney for Petitioner Peter Bowers, PC 441 N. 5th Street – Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-440-0300

als. So what? Maybe we can cut the Soda Tax rate!

State Rep. James ROEBUCK has a primary challenger. Roebuck, the church-going, God-serving man known as “The Deacon,” has been heaven-sent for many years as a leader in GEDs for kids and adults.

Black Narcotics Squad cops and Guardian Civic

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(Cont. From page 10) TO FIGHT protected bike lanes for his constituents.

Homeowners deserve consideration against a very small BUT VOCAL bike-riding sector of the overall population.

A recent online bulletin seemed to link the City tax

structure as the single biggest reason for poverty in Philly. Mega-sized Hmm to that blarney.

HERE WE GO AGAIN: The annual media event write on the City DROP Program. Boring.

ShopRite and Fresh Foods owner Jeff BROWN is featured in the press as a Soda Tax opponent – who stands alone among liber-

D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

WALKING the BEAT

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12/20/2017 10:53:24 AM

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ELEPHANT CORNER

or disrespected.” This set a different tone from his first reaction to the allegations, when he denied the behavior. A number of former staffers and campaign staffers claimed the senator had behaved inappropriately toward young females on numerous occasions between 2008 and 2016.

On Facebook, Leach called one of his a accusers of being a “human wrecking ball of hate” who is spreading “insane attacks and laughable lies.” It is believed that his comments were aimed at COLLEEN KENNEDY, a 28-year-old who volunteered for his campaign in 2013. It is also rumored that Leach believes she is stirring up false rumors about his behavior to help one of his

primary opponents in the congressional race.

Commenting on Leach’s Facebook page, Kennedy denied Leach’s accusers are lying. I must, however, share with you her reported post: “We’d have to make up things that are really shameful to talk about, potentially risk our careers and our future, see threads like this one, and the big prize we get is that some other white dude might get to win the PRIMARY? Like are you kidding me?”

I am reluctant to dismiss the multiple allegations until there is more basis to believe this is a coordinated fabrication. That being said, I doubt a person with Ms. Kennedy’s apparent limited communications skills could be that daunting of an adversary.

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

Last Thursday, the club held its annual Philadelphia Media Awards.

The winners include: Ryan Briggs of City & State PA; Max Marin of Philadelphia Weekly; WURD’s Vincent Thompson and Chris Murray; former Philadelphia

Tribune editor Sheila Simmons, and current Tribuners Nicki Mayo, Ayana Jones, Ryanne Persinger, and Michael Coard; WHYY’s Jake Blumgart, Kim Paynter, and Peter Crimmins; independent journalist Syreeta Martin; the Reentry Project and…

Me. Believe me. I’m shocked too.

Congratulations to all of you. It was awesome being honored along with you.

D E C E M B E R 21, 2017

(Cont. From page 10) Leach has indicated that he plans to stay in his State Senate seat despite calls from GOV. TOM WOLF and other Democrats to resign. Senate MINORITY LEADER JAY COSTA (D-Allegheny) has said his caucus is looking into the claims against Leach and “will take the appropriate next steps.” Leach stated he plans to work with his State Senate colleagues “to address these allegations and fully cooperate as they are all vetted.”

Leach stated, “While I’ve always been a gregarious person, it’s heartbreaking to me that I have put someone in a position that made them feel uncomfortable

(Cont. From page 10) — and his press office — can redeem themselves.

I’ll end today’s column by giving a shout out to the Pen and Pencil Club.

LABORERS’ DISTRICT COUNCIL HEALTH & SAFETY FUND 665 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19123

(215) 236-6700

www.ldc-phila-vic.org

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Alan Parham, Adminstrator

Local 57 - Esteban Vera, Jr., Business Manager Local 135 - Deniel L. Woodall, Jr.,, Business Manager Local 332 - Samuel Staten, Jr., Business Manager Local 413 - James Harper, Jr., Business Manager Laborers’ District Council - Ryan Boyer Business Manager

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Building better and safer communities in Philadlephia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties

Do it Right, Do It Safe, Do It Union.

CITY HALL SAM

(Cont. From page 10) circles. Some of his personal restoration was featured in the Philly magazine article that details his rebuild.

Fumo also has a book coming out which will talk about his career Fumo’s successor, STATE SEN. LARRY FARNESE, has continued to build his résumé in Pennsylvania.

The big three issues that he continues to be at the forefront on are LGBTQ rights, gun control and ethics.

What is interesting about Farnese’s success is that he overcame adversity in being acquitted of federal charges.

12/20/2017 11:08:33 AM

BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: Thinking about filing bankrupt-

Q

costs; 3. You need a new car and want to pay lower interest while your credit is still good; 4. You are expecting a change in your marital status and want to wait until that is resolved; 5. You gave something of value away and need to wait until it is no longer an issue in a bankruptcy case; or 6. You have income-tax debt that could be discharged if you wait the requisite amount of time.

Next Week’s Question: Can I discharge payday loans in bankruptcy?

Local 57 Funds Its Youth

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

understanding BANKRUPTCY

cy? Now Might NOT be the right time!

Answer: Filing bankruptcy is all about timing.

Sometimes, waiting to file makes good sense and will save the debtor a lot of headaches and some significant debt.

Let’s look at six reasons to wait. File later when: 1. You just got a bonus from work and it significantly affects your income level; 2. You are anticipating some significant medical treatment and aren’t sure if your health insurance will cover all of the associated

LABORERS Local 57 Executive Board Scholarship Fund awarded over $40,000 in scholarships to children and grandchildren of union members. Estebán Vera, Jr., business manager, was joined by Executive Board members and scholarship winners at the union hall. Local 57 also gave an award to 64-year Local 57 member, retired Business Manager of the Laborers’ District Council Arthur Roland.

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