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Vol. XIV No. 24

Issue 959

June 14, 2018

PhiladelphiaPublicRecord

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

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LAST MONTH witnessed the inauguration of giant new cranes at PhilaPort in South Philadelphia. U.S. Senator Bob Casey, speaking, Gov. Tom Wolf and a host of other officials celebrated their acquisition. As large as any in the world, they are capable of discharging containers from ultra-large container vessels LUS $6,500! with capacities rang- “Think Value, Think Value Kia.” P ing from 10,000 to 20,000 TEU. They will be ready for UCLVs when the Delaware River channel deepening is com- At least $6,500 for your trade, pleted this year. Port even if it doesn’t run! traffic is already Drag it in, tow it in. It’s worth soaring. See our at least $6,500 at Value Kia! “Port Salute” Special Section, P. 3-13.

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Photo by Andres Anzola

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6/13/2018 11:53:25 AM

Kenney, Council at Odds over Taxes, Prisons

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BY RYAN BRIGGS HILADELPHIA Mayor Jim Kenney has spent the last week engaged in tense negotiations with City Council on a plan to use some $95 million in prison budget cuts to help fund the municipal budget. The mayor had initially asked for several tax hikes to fund local schools; Council countered by noting that the City's declining prison population offers better opportunities to realize savings.

But now, the administration – and some prominent criminal justice and educational advocates – say that ongoing prison reform efforts could become a hidden casualty of Council’s

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competing budget plan.

In a June 7 memo to Council, obtained by City & State PA, Kenney budget director Anna Adams warned members that the proposed $15 to $20 million in annual savings from the closure of Philadelphia’s aging House of Corrections would jeopardize reinvestments in a variety of reform efforts.

“Savings from the closure were intended to pay for a day-reporting pilot, police-assisted diversion, and to allow the city to eliminate cash bail revenue without negative impacts on the city’s budget,” she wrote.

Adams also ticked off new behavioral health therapy and reentry programs, expanded naloxone distri-

bution and mandatory increases in court-appointed counsel fees that the city had planned to pay down with prison savings.

But the Kenney administration was not alone.

Many of the aforementioned efforts have been on criminal justice reformers’ wish lists for years – DA Larry Krasner ran for office on his support for many similar initiatives.

“I think our biggest concern in terms of the budget crisis is that that money is directly invested back into communities affected by mass incarceration,” said Reuben Jones, a formerly incarcerated man and a member of Close The Creek, a group that sought to close the House of Cor-

rections. “We think Council’s position is noble but misdirected.”

Jones acknowledged that schools were a key part of city communities and that his and other affiliated groups supported increased school funding – just not at the expense of prison reforms.

“There's a big argument about returning it to schools and everyone wants to support the school district. But I don’t agree that the whole amount should be diverted,” he said. “We worked hard to close the jail. But now that we're here, it feels like there's a U-turn being made.”

Jones also said that educational advocacy groups like Our City, Our Schools

had indicated that they didn’t want school funding at the expense of criminal justice efforts either.

He instead proposed a compromise: splitting off some money for schools and some for reform programs his group supports.

Low-income neighborhoods of color have been hardest hit by mass incarceration and deserve a small piece of the savings realized by prison closure, he argued.

“Council wants to ride in on their white horse and save the day for the school district, but $15 million is a drop in the budget,” he said.

A spokesperson for Council President Darrell Clarke did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Johnson: Good Call on Trespass

PUBLIC SERVANTS at WORK

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OUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson (2nd District) commented on the Philadelphia Police Department’s recently updated trespassing policy, in response to the April incident at a Starbucks in his district.

“I commend Commissioner Ross for his thoughtful leadership in the wake of the Starbucks arrests. It took integrity to admit that the arrests should not have happened. It took even more to follow through with development of a new policy on incidents involv-

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ing alleged trespass. After preliminary review of the new policy, I believe it provides clear, thorough, and well-reasoned guidance to police personnel,” Johnson stated.

“I will continue to work with Starbucks on improving its policies and corporate culture. I will continue to champion good policy and an inclusive culture in our Police Department –– but today's announcement reinforces my confidence in Commissioner Ross and the Philadelphia Police Department.”

Three Lawmakers Seek Free College State Sen. Vincent J. Hughes (D-W. Phila.), along with State Reps. James Roebuck (D-W. Phila.) and Jordan Harris (D-S. Phila.) introduced legislation for the Pennsylvania Promise initiative, a program that would make college free and affordable to many students

across the state.

The legislators were joined by guests from the Association of Pennsylvania State College & University Faculties President Ken Mash, dozens of APSCUF members, a student and other members of the House and Senate announcing SB 1111 and HB 2444.

“Helping our students should be priority No. 1,” Hughes said. “I’ve heard from far too many college students who are struggling to make ends meet.

They’re starving and some can’t maintain stable housing throughout the school year. They need something like PA Promise to make college reality.”

The bills would cover up to four years of tuition and fees for any recent highschool graduate enrolled full-time at one of the Commonwealth’s 14 public community colleges.

Four years of tuition and fees would go to any recent

high-school graduate with a family income less than or equal to $110,000 per year at one of the 14 universities in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education or a state-related university.

Room and board would be covered for any recent high-school graduate with a family income less than or equal to $48,000 per year at a community college, state-owned or state-related institution.

Additional funding would increase access to adults seeking in-demand skills and industry-recognized credentials, as well as college credits, or apprentice ship programs.

Federal work-study money would be supplemented.

“The pressures of getting into a good college can be stressful. The overwhelming cost that comes with it should not be one of them,” Roebuck said.

Hughes also launched

a website dedicated to the Pennsylvania Promise.

Student stories, videos and other information about the initiative can be found on the website at senatorhughes.com/papromise.

Pennsylvania Promise would be a last-dollar funding source, meaning students eligible for the award would receive the award up to the cost of tuition, room and board.

“There are far too many young people in our commonwealth who have to fight to attend a two-year or four-year college and the cost is an extra burden for many families that they cannot shoulder,” Harris said. “This legislation would make getting a quality education a reality and the economic possibilities for our state endless. The Pennsylvania Promise is just one of many steps we need to take in order to build an inclusive and equal society.”

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Governor’s Message

BY GOV. TOM WOLF HIS MAY, I joined U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and federal,

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highest priorities. My administration is working hard to invest critical dollars in improvements at PhilaPort, so that we can create thousands of jobs and grow the economy of this region, and the entire commonwealth.

The arrival of the cranes marks another significant milestone in the plan to invest more than $300 million in PhilaPort’s infrastructure, warehousing, and equipment in 2016.

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GOV. TOM WOLF

state, and local leaders in celebration of the recent arrival of the first two super post-Panamax cranes at The Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort), marking another major milestone spurred by my Capital Investment Program and port development plan.

Pennsylvania’s ports are vital to the economic success of Pennsylvania, and I am proud to say that the continued success of PhilaPort is one of my administration’s

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New Canal, New Channel: Port Enters a New Era

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Interview with Jeff Theobald

KEYSTONE SHIPPING REPRESENTING MORE THAN 100 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE

PHILAPORT CEO Jeff Theobald

be done.

One man with a seagull’seye view of this change is PhilaPort’s CEO Jeff Theobald. He gave a succinct account of the substantial progress to date and of what will come next.

PhilaPort’s 2017 yearend report confirmed a record year for port traffic, with Philadelphia growing faster than any other major U.S. port – “a remarkably high level,” Theobald said. As the midyear mark in 2018 approaches, Theobald said, things have calmed down some, but he still expects around 5% container growth by the end of the half.

Channel-deepening work is winding to a close.

Theobald estimated there will be a complete 45-foot channel one way by summer’s end; the two-way channel should be finished around the first of next year.

(Cont. Page 10)

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PORT OF PHILADELPHIA

BY TONY WEST 2018 is the year that Philadelphia’s historic port officially entered the post-Panamax world, when the world’s largest cargo ships are able to sail directly from China and East Asia to the Northeastern United States via the Panama Canal – and the Delaware River is ready to receive them, thanks to the deepening of the shipping channel to 45 feet by the Army Corps of Engineers.

The implications for our region are enormous. If we play our cards right, tens of thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of new dollars may ripple out from the port. But challenges lie ahead and there is work to

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Packer Ave. Terminal Ready for Big Business

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DOMINATING the river view in South Philadelphia like a second skyline, one of the new post-Panamax megacranes goes to work. Photo courtesy of PhilaPort

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ith nary a scratch nor splash, two giant 32-story gantry cranes arrived from a globe-crossing trek into South Philadelphia this past March.

The cranes completed a 90-plus-day journey from Shanghai, China, to arrive at the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal and mark the beginning of a new era of prosperity for the city and surrounding region.

In a shining example of public-private partnership, the Commonwealth and Holt Logistics Corp. are together investing a total of nearly $300 million directly into the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal. These

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investments in technology, infrastructure, warehousing, and equipment are laying a foundation for sustainable growth that is already setting new benchmarks in container volume. As a whole, the Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) is experiencing record-breaking cargo volumes and reported nearly 20% container growth in 2017.

These increases are falling right in line with a number of terminal-wide improvements at Packer Avenue that are either completed or underway.

These improvements, coupled with the completion of the Delaware

River Deepening Project, are bringing some of the largest container ships in the world to Philadelphia. Many of these “Ultra-Large Container Vessels” were previously limited to primarily West Coast U.S. ports. But the opening of the expanded Panama Canal has greatly increased global flexibility for these giant ships, and the Packer Avenue terminal now has the capacity and tools required to handle them.

In addition to the new cranes, several new reach stackers were purchased

by Greenwich Terminals, a Holt Logistics affiliate and operator of the terminal,

to improve efficiency and cargo flow on the dock.

Installation of 300 new reefer plugs on the terminal has increased refrigerated cargo capacity by 15%, and a new $4 million U.S. Customs & Border Patrol/ Department of Agriculture inspection warehouse is currently under construction.

Technology upgrades throughout the terminal include comprehensive WiFi coverage, RFID installation on all equipment and installation of an Optical Character Recognition system, which provides real-time tracking of all cargo from ship to truck. Traditional infra-

structure improvements include strengthening and electrification of the wharf to accommodate the new cranes, as well as a complete repaving of the entire terminal yard.

With an eye towards the future, more changes will be seen across the terminal in the coming year. 2019 will mark the arrival of three more super post-Panamax cranes, bringing the total number of cranes on the Packer Avenue terminal to seven.

Additionally, engineering is currently underway for a new off-site replacement for the terminal’s refrigerated and dry distribution center. This new center

will greatly increase terminal flexibility and efficiency in bringing a wide variety of products to market.

With steady increases in cargo volume and major improvements to visual infrastructure, the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal is poised to be the crown jewel in Philadelphia’s resurgence in the global shipping market. Holt Logistics and its client companies are proud partners in these efforts with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, PhilaPort and other stakeholders to ultimately drive economic growth that benefits workers, consumers, businesses and government.

6/13/2018 11:01:59 AM

Governor’s Message

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(Cont. From Page 4) Since implementing the infrastructure improvement plan the port realized record breaking cargo volumes and nearly 20% container growth in 2017, and just last month welcomed the arrival of the largest container vessel to ever call at the port.

Development is slated to continue through 2020 and is projected to support thousands of jobs and generate an increase of more than $100 million in state and local tax revenues annually.

Investments like this one are a key part of my strategy to use our resources wisely and invest in opportunities that will have outsize impacts on the growth of our economy, and of jobs. Key investments in industry, and in critical components of our infrastructure, not only provide jobs, but also provide improved efficiencies – helping businesses grow.

I will continue to look for opportunities to partner with places like PhilaPort, so that we can take advantage of this incredible opportunity right here in Philadelphia, and so that we can make this Port the strongest on the East Coast, and anywhere on the Atlantic Seaboard.

Working together with our partners, we can modernize, expand, and grow PhilaPort, and in turn strengthen the economy of Pennsylvania.

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6/13/2018 10:47:53 AM

History and Section 232: The Numbers Don’t Lie

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Port Leader Comments On a Pivotal Year

(Cont. From Page 6) But the port already welcomed its largest ship ever earlier this spring, the MSC Shuba B. Larger ships are already testing this port.

“Pilots have said that if dredging was not as far long as it is, they would not have been able to do it,” Theobald reported.

Skeptics have doubted Philadelphia’s competitiveness even at 45 feet, since other Northeastern ports are at 50 feet. But Theobald revealed PhilaPort has wiggle room – thanks to its 6-foot tides. “That means we can accommodate 51 feet, with proper planning,” he explained.

Further, he noted, “Philadelphia will not be the first port of call for Asian container ships. They may land first at Savannah or Charleston and work their way north, or dock first at Boston and work their way south.” Many will thus have shallower draft by the time they reach our docks.

More cargo room and more vessel traffic require more of everything else.

The seven new supersized cranes that are being installed this year (see Page 8) are one part.

The $300 million in government investment by Gov. Tom Wolf is mostly in the engineering and bidding phase now.

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More warehouse space is urgent. One of PhilaPort’s strengths is an unusually large amount of riverfront land available for development.

Site work is planned on 80 acres of land at Southport to expand PhilaPort’s vehicle-processing capacity. At the former Produce Center, 29 acres can be retooled, Theobald said, to accommodate a new dockside state-of-the-art refrigerated facility, enhancing Philadelphia’s already-large perishable-produce industry, as well as allow for added warehouse space for all the new containers.

Intermodal links also must be examined, and repurposed or upgraded as needed, said Theobald.

The port’s rail partners, CSX and Norfolk Southern, own much land that can be studied for ways to improve efficiency – or perhaps to free up some for additional warehousing. PennDOT must study the adjacent highway systems to make sure they are prepared to handle added truck traffic.

The port’s terminal tenants will need more manpower as well. “We are working with AFL-CIO, the International Longshoremen’s Association and the College Consortium to develop a training module for new workers in port-related

jobs,” said Theobald. “It’s on the cusp of happening.”

In IT, the port is exploring blockchain technology – the architecture behind crypto-currency – to speed port transactions. Theobald said that the Holt Cos., who constitute a major tenant at PhilaPort, and the giant Norwegian container shipper Maersk Line, are working on such a project.

When imports grow, a port operator and a shipper both want to see exports grow in tandem. That maximizes use of warehouse space and cargo space, so that transporters don’t have to deadhead back empty.

PhilaPort is a major Northeast delivery point for Korean-made automobiles. Theobald would like to attract American-made auto exporters to its wellequipped roll-on roll-off facility. Construction equipment – Caterpillar machines, for instance – could be another attractive customer.

Key to PhilaPort’s marketing edge, Theobald insisted, is its labor force.

“We have a great relationship with the Teamsters and ILA,” he said.

“They are hard-working and dedicated, with the highest productivity in the Northeast. They are why we consistently beat New York City.”

mid growing tensions, the process of implementing the Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports is now moving forward. Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit a report to the president advising whether any article “is being imported to the United States in such quantities or under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security.”

Maritime professionals believe the new steel and aluminum import restrictions, recommended under the guise of national security, will wreak havoc not only on seaports, but also on downstream businesses dependent on steel and aluminum imports. Uncertainty over exactly which countries and products will experience the greatest effects is mounting.

“This lack of clarity is jeopardizing normal business operations in our seaports and extending throughout the entire steel supply chain,” said Robert Palaima, president of Delaware River Stevedores.

In late April, Caterpillar Inc. stock tumbled despite positive quarterly earnings after the company forecast that the steel tariffs would drive revenues down for the remainder of the year.

Caterpillar, which manufactures construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural-gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives, said steel costs in the equipment industry were up about 15% for the quarter.

“As measured by vessel calls in 2017, vessels that carried over 4 million tons of steel cargo, steel is cur-

rently the fourth-largest import cargo arriving at Delaware River ports,” according to Maritime Exchange President Dennis Rochford. “The direct impact on the regional port is all-encompassing.

Ship agents, dockworkers, tug boat operators, pilots, warehouse workers, truckers, and others involved in the transportation chain are all under duress due to the imposition of these tariffs and the anxiety surrounding their implementation.”

Similar uncertainty characterized steel imports in the early 2000s as well, when President George H. Bush imposed tariffs under Section 201 of the trade act.

An important new analysis recently released by Martin Associates offers compelling data highlighting the downward effect of tariffs on steel capacity utilization.

Specifically, the study finds no direct relationship between steel imports and domestic steel-industry capacity utilization. In particular, Martin’s data show that the capacity utilization of the U.S. steel industry actually declined during the imposition of the Section 201 import tariffs during March 2002 through December 2003.

The Trade Partnership, in a report released last March, predicted acrossthe-board 232 tariffs would cost six times as many jobs throughout the economy as compared to jobs created in the domestic steel industry. “While the report projected the creation of 33,000 steel and aluminum jobs, of concern is the concurrent loss of 180,000 jobs in the services sector, trade and distribution, construction and business, and professional services,”

Rochford said.

“This is the real economic story behind the Section 232 tariffs the president wants to impose,” said Richard Chriss, executive director of the American Institute for International Steel.

“The issues the president is attempting to address with these tariffs are better dealt with at the World Trade Organization, where the U.S. won nearly 86% of the cases it has brought before this organization since 1995.”

It is also clear that imposing the tariffs will invite retaliation by other countries against U.S. exports.

A likely first casualty in this trade war is the U.S. agriculture sector, including potential new tariffs against U.S. corn, soybeans, wheat, livestock, dairy, and other goods.

Even where farmers might not directly export products overseas, many crops and livestock grown and raised in the U.S. are contained in food products shipped elsewhere. In a March 9 Philadelphia Inquirer article, Rick Ebert of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau was quoted as saying, “higher tariffs make our products more expensive and less competitive, which opens the door for other countries to replace the U.S. as a supplier of food overseas.”

“Job-killing restrictions on steel imports today will not enhance the nation’s economic well-being any more than they did under Section 201,” Rochford said.

“Rather, the imposition of steel tariffs and the retaliation sure to follow set the stage to once again handicap the U.S. economy and its workforce.”

Reprinted courtesy of the Maritime Exchange Beacon.

6/13/2018 11:20:39 AM

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

BY DENISE CLAY “This is beautiful. This is just so beautiful.”

O THE MAN standing along the Art Museum steps watching as the Father’s Day Rally Committee took its annual Father’s Day portrait at the tourist attraction on Monday, the sight of a group of men of all races, creeds, colors and walks of life was a welcome one.

It became even more welcoming when the men saw him standing there.

“Are you a father?” Man-

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Qayyum said.

But now, families have taken that part on for themselves.

“You go through Fairmount Park and you see families cooking out with banners that say, ‘Happy Father’s Day,’” he said. “That’s what we wanted.”

Many of these families will probably be taking portraits like the one at the Art Museum.

After a few minutes, the man who was watching the gathering ran over to join the group. The joy that radiated from his face as he took his place among the fathers could be seen from across the street.

If you’re interested in finding out more about this year’s FDRC events, go to the group’s Facebook page or call (215) 696-5392.

Some days, just letting a father know that you see him, the work he does, and the effort he makes to do the best by his family, is all he really needs.

Happy Father’s Day.

BY JOE SHAY STIVALA SSESSMENT INDEPENDENCE – Philly needs that.

Years back, during the clamor over the City Board of Revision of Taxes’ alleged needed reform, one point was OVERLOOKED! The BRT was independent of mayoral control. Assessment increases were not automatic, or based on City revenue needs. The City had to learn the anticipated tax revenue based on assessed values before developing a budget. The “reform” bill of then-Councilman William

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he predicted City budget standoff has started. City Council has brushed off MAYOR JIM KENNEY’S proposed 4% property-tax increase with some high heat. Council members have turned a double play by putting forward their own budget package that relies on spending cuts and some new revenue.

But can they get the third out in the bottom of the ninth?

The Kenney administration is taking big cuts in the on-deck circle, led by

demonstration at a game is 11 more important than winning a game or championship. BALONEY and since when?

The team members who wanted to go to the White House were deprived of that chance by fellow team members. Much has been said of the LATE cancellation – not the late notice to the White House of non-attendees. The media were deprived of many stories, from all angles, had the ceremony taken place. So, will EAGLES PLAYERS fight on their OWN TIME – call rallies, take full-page ads? I am a Democrat; but when a President calls – YOU GO! Great pieces in the PRESS include story on the Route 49 scenic highway across New Jersey – now discovered as an alternate route to Wildwood. Also a great story on the prison-worker economy of towns in our state. Also a former top prosecutor facing an ethics (Cont. Page 14)

finance director ROB DUBOW, who has said that the City Council package does not deliver enough funding for Philadelphia School District. They’ve also said that the proposed cuts to the City prison budget threatens public safety. Who will blink first in this budget thriller? The answer will come today.

A person that has given City Council some unexpected strength is rookie CITY CONTROLLER REBECCA RHYNHART. At Rhynhart’s first press conference as controller, she criticized her former boss Dubow and the operations of the City Finance Department. The controller’s report found eight significant deficiencies in the City of Philadelphia’s financial accounts. Rhynhart said that Philadelphia has the worst accounting practices among the nation’s 10 largest cities, with $924 million in bookkeeping errors. She also

said at the press conference, “If the City of Philadelphia is talking about tax increases, let’s get our house in order first.”

Rhynhart had essentially the same fiscal message as COUNCILMAN ALLAN DOMB and COUNCILWOMAN CINDY BASS. Both have been pushing for spending cuts, delinquent-tax collections and government efficiencies to close the budget deficit. So who will win this ball game?

Will it be the sabermetrics of City Council or the oldtime, work-hard, play-hard, grind-it baseball of the Kenney administration?

Mayor Kenney is riding a nice winning streak coming into the budget debate.

The soda-tax repeal appears to be defeated in Harrisburg, he has labor peace in the city, and his first years as mayor have largely been hailed as successful.

Adding to that success is (Cont. Page 17)

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nwell Glenn, the organizer of this year’s photo, asked.

“If you’re a father, you need to get over here. You need to be in the picture, too!”

About 50 men gathered at the Art Museum steps on Monday evening for the portrait, which is one of the events designed by the Father’s Day Rally Committee to spotlight the city’s fathers and what they do for their children and by extension, the city.

In addition to the photo, the Committee honored a group of fathers, including Local 332 leader Sam Staten Jr., educator Sharif El-Mekki, Mel Wells of One Day at a Time and rap artist Freeway at its annual Fatherhood Awards on Wednesday.

But the centerpiece of the week is the annual softball game on the Belmont Plateau.

Over the 29 years that FDRC has existed, the softball game has been a chance for families to get together and honor Dad, founder Bilal

WALKING the BEAT

GREEN put the BRT in the hands of the mayor. A mayor could now work up what he wanted to spend, and raise assessments to meet it.

There is one hitch: Property values were raised to 100% with the introduction of AVI (Actual Value Initiative). How can the proposed increase EXCEED 100%?

The BRT is now the Office of Property Assessment (OMB). The OMB needs to be independent of the Mayor’s Office. City Council can push this; it is a great election-year ordinance!

Ed RENDELL says that Trump can recover from the Eagles flub by holding a private meeting with Eagles players on criminal-justice reform. It will NEVER HAPPEN. A president would never risk another Eagles snub. Ed cannot guarantee full attendance. The Ed letter seems a showboat move (?). But we already know how smart he is. An editorial said that Eagles players’

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ast weekend, the State Committee of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania met at the Seven Springs Resort in Somerset. The speaker at the Friday dinner was former White House communications director SEAN SPICER. Typically, State Committee meets in or near Harrisburg. While most Philadelphia members recognize that is only fair to have a meeting more convenient to those in the western part of state, there are some who wish the location were either near public

the fall and winter meetings. The business meeting on Saturday morning was uneventful as expected; no votes were taken.

The group heard from party officials and our gubernatorial candidates for November. Additionally, a U.S. Congressional update was offered by CONGRESSMAN TOM MARINO (R-Lycoming), a State Senate review by STATE SEN. PAT STEFANO (R-Fayette) and a State House report from SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE MIKE TURZAI (R-Allegheny).

Marino spoke of the over 900 bills passed in the House of Representatives since PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP took office.

Many of these bills went to die in the U.S. Senate owing to the obstructionist behavior of the Senate Democrats, according to Marino.

He noted that the Trump naysayers are ignoring the benefit of the new tax code (Cont. Page 19)

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ELEPHANT CORNER

transportation. One benefit to this location is that the hotel is pet-friendly, allowing some of us to avoid the cost of kenneling our dogs.

This meeting included 101 new State Committee members who, like the incumbents, were elected on May 15 for a new four-year term. The most interesting aspect of this freshman class was that 75 of them are under 40 years old. This group of younger members represents one-quarter of State Committee, belying the allegation that the Republican Party is a party of old white men.

The Philadelphia delegation remains the same as incumbents WALT VOGLER, CALVIN TUCKER, DENISE FUREY, PEG RECUPIDO, CHRIS VOGLER, MIKE CIBIK, TERRY DINTINO, MARIA McCOLGAN, CAMILLE McCOLGAN, DAN TINNEY and LINWOOD HOLLAND were re-elected.

The summer meeting is usually less formal than

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WALKING the BEAT

JU N E 14 , 2018

(Cont. From Page 11) hearing – they left out that he worked for Seth Williams (?).

Correct decision was rendered by Judge Dan

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

(215) 236-6700

www.ldc-phila-vic.org

ANDERS on the 58th WARD lawsuit. Had the outcome gone the other way, write-in committee person candidates would need 10 votes to get elected – a decision throwing many division wins into chaos. That would have benefited one faction, and HURT many others.

The City GOP watched as its 546 candidates also enlisted 350 write-ins. For Committee Persons who LOST re-election after years of service – THANK YOU

for all your years of caring for others!

BIRTHDAYS: Best to 42nd Ward Leader Sharon VAUGHN; Kevin PASQUAY, GOP sage; Lt. Gov. Mike STACK; Dr. Mary Ellen BALCHUNIS; Judge Mark COHEN; and Justice Jacqueline SHOGAN! Sad loss in Falls Church, Va. was the passing of former Secretary of Defense Frank CARLUCCI. Many happy memories of his era.

He hailed from Dunmore, Pa. Good news is the nomination of Jeff VAN DREW for Congress in South Jersey – he helps people! Like Jeff, Wildwood Mayor Ernie TROIANO is helping citizens EACH DAY! I was elated to chat with former ward leader Vivian MILLER. She served well as elected Clerk of Courts.

REFORMERS re-created the office. It has a BIG budget. Does it work better?

The use of an ALGORITHM in sentencing proposal by the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing ignores the worth of the individual. Just give judges WIDER AUTHORITY; no guidelines, please!

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Alan Parham, Adminstrator

Local 57 - Esteban Vera, Jr., Business Manager Local 135 - Daniel 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.

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Tax That Man Odunde Founder Gets Street Behind That Tree

J

8th Senatorial District

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”

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State Rep. Jason

State Senator

Dawkins District Office:

Sharif

Street

4667 Paul St. Philadelphia, PA 19124 (215) 744-7901 M.–Th.:8:30a.m.–5:00p.m.

F.: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

State Rep.

Joanna E.

McClinton 191st Leg. Dist.

6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139

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

1621 W. Jefferson Street Philadelphia, PA 19121

215-227-6161 Paid for with PA Tax Dollars

State Representative

Mike

O’Brien Service from Bello Vista to Harrowgate and all points between.

610 North 2nd Street

215.503.3245

172nd Dist.

7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

215-331-2600 City Commission Chairwoman

Lisa M.

Deeley Room 130 City Hall

Philadelphia PA 19107

215-686-3460 Rep.Maria P.

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

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

Greenlee 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

Squilla

198th District

310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148

1st District City Hall Room 332

P: 215-849-6426

215-686-3458/59 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

Boyle

Mark

Youngblood

Taylor

190th Legislative District

Councilman

Rep. Rosita

STATE REP.

Representative

Vanessa Lowery Brown

Kevin J.

District 3 City Hall, Room 408 Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 686-3418, (215) 686-3419 FAX: (215) 686-1933

www.facebook.com/ RepCephas www.pahouse.com/Cephas

goods from 8% to 8.25-8.5%.

Mustio’s proposal sent Philadelphia Mayor Jim (Cont. Page 20)

State Rep.

Jannie L. Blackwell

5921 Lancaster Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19151 (215) 879 6625

215-271-9190

troduced by influential State Rep. Mark Mustio (R-Allegheny) that would prohibit Philadelphia from taxing soda distributors in particular. Instead, Mustio offered, Philadelphia would be free to increase the sales tax on all

Councilwoman

192ndLegislative LegislativeDistrict District 192nd

184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

Anthony Hardy Williams

pre-K education, parks and recreation centers, and a host of other public goods – if declared legal. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has heard arguments on this tax and will likely declare it legal.

But now comes a bill in-

Morgan Morgan Cephas Cephas

William Keller

State Senator

IN ADVANCE of last weekend’s Odunde festival, the 2300 block of South Street was renamed “Lois Fernandez Way” in honor of its founder. Holding the street sign was current Odunde leader Bumi Fernandez-West, joined by her extended family. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson honored her with a citation; he was accompanied in the picture by Councilwomen Jannie Blackwell and Helen Gym, as well as radio personality Patty Jackson. Councilman Al Taubenberger and State Rep. Jordan Harris also attended.

Photo by Leona Dixon

StateRepresentative Representative State

State Rep.

Always Hard At Work for You! 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.

tice everywhere else in energy-producing America, it’s a non-starter in Appalachian Pennsylvania, which has always favored surrendering its wealth to outsiders for as little as possible in return.

But Wolf isn’t talking much about gas revenues now. He’s talking about the July 1 deadline for a new budget, and how it should be met.

On the Republican side of Harrisburg, the biggest new tax idea is to tax – surprise! Philadelphia. With its high poverty rate.

The tax in question is the soda tax, fiercely pressed

by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, which will fund

JU N E 14 , 2018

BY JOE SHAHEELI UST BY LOOKING at the calendar, it’s obvious that all proposed tax hikes face an uphill battle both on Capitol Hill and in City Hall this year.

That’s because the all-important political races of the next 12 months – in the statewide November general election and in the 2019 municipal primary – are underway now. Since all politicians who affect Philadelphians’ lives are running for their supper right now, it is a safe bet that many will talk about raising money for important public goods – but no legislator will vote for a tax increase that stands any chance of being enacted.

At the State level, the Republican-run General Assembly and the Democratic-held Governor’s Mansion are in rare agreement that no new taxes are really needed.

State Rep. Garth Everett (R-Lycoming) put it bluntly: “It is an election year. You aren’t going to see any tax increase in an election year.

That’s the way things are in elective politics.” Everett, an Appropriations Committee member, knows this field.

Both state parties have floated potential tax increases. Both are sure to fail.

Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf has again proposed a natural-gas severance tax. Although this is normal prac-

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

City Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker 9th District

District Office 1538 E. Wadsworth Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19150 Phone: 215-686-3454 Fax: 215-685-9271. www.phlcouncil.com/CherelleParker

Facebook: CouncilwomanCherelleLParker Twitter: @CherelleParker9

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Channeling Success Through Our Port

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OPINION

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JU N E 14 , 2018

HE MUCH heralded delivery of two post-Panamax cranes to PhilaPort – to get an idea of just how important this event was, just look at the assemblage of local, state and national politicians celebrating the arrival on the cover of this issue – is another milestone in the 317-year history of our city’s waterfront crown jewel.

First authorized by William Penn in 1701, the port has become an invaluable asset in a number of ways.

Its access to the Atlantic

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MARK your CALENDAR Jun. 14- State Senate candidate Tina Davis is hosted Cocktail Party at SDCC, 1635 Market St., 16th fl., 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Special guest Ed Rendell. Sponsors $5,000, patrons $2,500, Hosts $1,000, Guests $250.

Payable to “Tina Davis for Senate,” P.O. Box 233, Croydon, PA 19021 or www.votetinadavis.com.

RASVP: Amy Masgay (267) 399-3058 or amy@votetinadavis.com.

Jun. 14- State rep candidate Elizabeth Fiedler

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Ocean gives the commonwealth the enviable ability to brag that no other state can offer access to the Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico (through the Port of Pittsburgh), and the Great Lakes (through the Port of Erie). The new cranes will help drive tax revenue for the state up close to $110 million. The economic impact of the expansion engendered by the Wolf administration has already resulted in thousands of new jobs. The coming boom in construction and infrastructure to accommodate the new levels of cargo will only add to the rosy forecast.

If there is a cloud to be found in all of this silver lining, it is the Trump administration’s haphazard is-it-or-isn’t-it trade war.

Ironically, according to

its website, “in 2002, The Port of Philadelphia was named the nation’s 14th Strategic Military Port by the U.S. Department of Defense, making it one of only 14 ports in the United States permitted to handle the nation’s military cargoes destined for various points around the globe.”

If the administration makes good on its threats to place tariffs on US trading partners, the port will need all the military business it can get. There is no doubt that with goods ranging from steel to beef to cars becoming subject to double-digit tariffs, volume will slow at the port.

Hopefully, cooler heads will prevail and Philadelphia can continue its inspiring ascent to the pinnacle of ports.

hosts Primary Election Victory Celebration at Pub on Passyunk E., 1501 E. Passyunk Ave., 5-7 p.m.

Drinks, snacks, kid-friendly. For info: friends@elizabethfiedler.com.

Jun. 14- State Sen. Sharif Street hosts Summer Cocktail Reception at Cuba Libre, 10 S. 2nd St., VIP 5:30-6:30 p.m., Young Professionals 6:30-7:30 p.m. Platinum $10,000, Gold $5,000, Silver $2,500, Bronze $1,000, Tickets $250, YP Hosts $100, YP Tickets $50. Payable to “Friends of Sharif Street,” P.O. Box 28854, Phila., PA 19151 or online https://act.myngp.com/ Forms/-762489146790 0581888. For info: (267) 275-2120.

Jun. 14- Fishtown Beer Runners host Karaoke for a Cause at Donna’s Bar, 2732 E. Allegheny Ave., 7:30 p.m., Philly Mayor’s Cup fundraiser benefiting the American Cancer Soc.

Donation per song sung.

For info: Fred Druding, Jr. (215) 221-2374.

Jun. 15- State Rep. Angel Cruz hosts Police Recruitment Drive at 3503 N. B St., Unit 7, 9 a.m.-12 m. For info: (215) 291-5643.

Jun. 15- State Rep. Stephen Kinsey hosts Senior Fair at York Ho., 5325 Old York Rd., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health screenings, chair massages, giveaways, prizes & lunch. Free. For info: (215) 849-6592.

Jun. 15- Filitalia Int’l hosts “30th Anniversary & Sponsor Appreciation Celebration” at Pyramid Cl., 1735 Market St., 52nd fl., cocktails 6 p.m., buffet, live auction, entertainment 7-10 p.m. Self park: Parkway Corp., 1700 Market St.; valet park: Sonesta Hotel Garage, 1800 Market St. For tickets: (2150) 334-8882.

Jun. 19- Congressmen Dwight Evans & Brian Fitzpatrick host Public Affairs Seminar Luncheon at Union Lg., 140 S. Broad

The News in Black & White

THE VESSELS that call at the Port of Philadelphia have been getting steadily bigger over the passage of years. But this model of the tuck-up Spider, built by Jesse Fisher in Fishtown in in the 1870s, shows the fastest boat on the Delaware River in its time. Photo courtesy of the Independence Seaport Museum

St., 11:30 a.m. Tickets $40. For info: (215) 5875565.

Jul. 21- State Senate candidate Linda Fields is hosted Fundraiser at Dist. 1199C, 1319 Locust St., 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Hosts: “Philly Legislators for Linda.” Sponsors $1,000, Hosts $500, Friends $250. Payable to “Friends of Linda Fields,” %JTGoldstein, LLC, 8 Penn Ctr., 1628 JFK Blvd., Su. 1702, Phila., PA 19103. RSVP: Dom Linda@LindaAFields.com.

Jun. 21- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell hosts W. Phila. Thursday Night Jazz Series at Malcolm X Pk., 52nd & Pine Sts., 7 p.m.

The Budesa Bros.

Jun. 23- Crisis Intervention Network Reunion Committee hosts Trip to Nat’l Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C., lv. 56th & Vine Sts. 7:45 a.m., rt. 7:30 p.m.

Includes stop at King Me-

morial, 2 hr. leisure at Baltimore Inner Harbor. Continental breakfast, video bus, games, prizes. Tickets $55. Payable to “Crisis Intervention Network.,” P.O. Box 9449, Phila., PA 19139.For info: Mike Reed (215) 796-5499.

Jun. 28- State Rep. Angel Cruz hosts Police Recruitment Drive at 3503 N. B St., Unit 7, 9 a.m.-12 m. For info: (215) 291-5643.

Jun. 28- State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown hosts Citywide Job Fair at Deliverance Evangelistic Ch., Fellowship Ha., 2001 W. Lehigh Ave., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Arrive early, bring résumés, wear business attire. Workshops on job-seeking. Re-entry participants welcome. For info: (215) 879-6615.

Jun. 28- Commissioner Lisa Deeley is hosted Reception at Independence Beer Garden, 100 S. Independence Mall W., 5:307:30 p.m. Hosts Hon. Jim Kenney & Hon. Darrell

Clarke; special guest Hon. Bob Brady. Gold $2,500, Silver $1,000, Bronze $500, Tickets $250. Payable to “Deeley 15,” P.O. Box 42288, Phila., PA 19101 or online https// secure.ac tblue.com/ donate/6.28_independencebeergarden. RSVP: Events@LPerryGroup.com.

Jun. 28- Green Party of Phila. holds Mtg. at Shissler Rec Ctr., 1800 Blair St., 7 p.m. For info: (215) 843-4256.

Jul. 5- Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell hosts W. Phila. Thursday Night Jazz Series at Malcolm X Park, 52nd & Pine Sts., 7 p.m. Drummer Carlos DeVaughn & the All Stars.

Jul. 7- Congressman Bob Brady hosts “Brady Bunch Beach Party” at Flip Flopz, 106 W. Spruce St., N. Wildwood, N.J. Tickets $35.

Jul. 7- Carpenters’ Union hosts Beach Party at Keenan’s N. Wildwood, 113 Olde New Jersey Ave., 3-7 p.m.

6/13/2018 11:57:35 AM

AT A JOINT free document shredding at Motivation High School in Angora, State Sen. Anthony Williams’ aide Christopher Lowery and Sherrise Rowe from Eastwick oversaw a successful operation.

CITY HALL SAM

AT&T proposes to replace an existing traffic sign pole with a proposed light pole with a top-mounted antenna (tip height 32.7’) at E. Service Dr, Philadelphia, PA (20180771).

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

17

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(Cont. From Page 11) Kenney’s recent immigration victory in the court. A federal judge recently sided with the City regarding its sanctuary city status.

This was a big win for the City and the mayor. It was an equally big loss for the Justice Department and PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP. Kenney has been an outspoken critic of Trump, making several pointed comments that take aim at the president and his policies. It’s a good place for

the mayor. He can be seen as leading progressive fights against the Trump administration – and winning. That is not only good policy, but it’s good politics for the mayor, who is up for re-election in 2019.

LEGAL NOTICE

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Y the WAFFLE MAN

O! HERE WE GO again with an important tip courtesy of the internet: how to save a life of a person who is acting strange – possibly having a stroke – by remembering just three things.

If you know the signs of a stroke, it may save a life.

For example, Susie is now recuperating at an in-

credible pace for someone with a massive stroke all because Sherry saw Susie stumble (that is the key that isn’t mentioned below) and then she asked Susie the three questions.

This literally saved Susie’s life. Some angel sent it to Susie’s friend and she did just what it said to do. Susie failed all three.

So 911 was called. Even though she had normal blood pressure readings and did not appear to be having a stroke, as she could converse to some extent with the paramedics, they took her to the hospital right away. Thank God for the sense to remember the three questions! Read and learn.

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Doctors say a bystander can often recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions: 1. Ask the individual to smile. 2. Ask

him or her to raise both arms. 3. Ask the person to speak a simple sentence.

If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, call 911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

After discovering that a group of non-medical volunteers could identify facial weakness, arm weakness and speech problems, researchers urged the general public to learn the three questions. They presented their conclusions at the American Stroke Association’s annual meeting last February. Widespread use of this test could result in prompt diagnosis and treatment of the stroke and prevent brain damage.

Recently I lost a very dear friend who passed away from the complications of a stroke. It made me painfully aware of the seriousness of a stroke. A cardiologist says if everyone who reads this tells it to 10 people, you can bet that at least one life will be saved.

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COUNCILMAN Derek Green was hosted an evening of jazz on a pleasant Mount Airy lawn.

COUNCILMAN Green, L, was joined by Charmaine Matlock-Turner and Tony Turner.

FLANKING Green were Larry Bell, L, and Doug Henderson.

GRACIOUS hosts Jennifer & Craig Alleyne listened as Councilman Derek Green discussed Council issues.

(Cont. From Page 11) to average Americans and the fact that the stock market is up 36% since Trump took office.

Stefano welcomed everyone to his neck of the woods, as his district includes Seven Springs.

Stefano is confident the Republicans will maintain their strong majority in the State Senate. Turzai agreed and noted that the State House will probably stay in Republican hands. He noted that only seven Republicans had primary challenges. It was a lot messier on the Democratic side.

Turzai also noted that the Republicans did well in the three special elections on May 15 for vacant

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ELEPHANT CORNER

unable to attend the meet- 19 ing. Gubernatorial candidates STATE SEN. SCOTT WAGNER (R-York) and Montgomery County businessman JEFF BARTOS addressed the meeting.

Lieutenant governor candidate Bartos spoke first. Bartos noted that Pennsylvania was recently ranked as the 5th-worstmanaged state behind Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and New Mexico. He believes that GOV. TOM WOLF is determined to keep out prosperity from the commonwealth. Bartos drew a sharp distinction between Wagner and Wolf. He stated that Wagner is for more jobs, lower taxes and more money in our children’s classrooms.

Conversely, he believes that Wolf wants higher taxes, fewer jobs and to pipeline money from our pockets to the public-sector unions.

Wagner reinforced Bartos’ comments by noting that Pennsylvania unemployment was 5% below the U.S. average when Wolf took office and is now 20% higher.

City of Philadelphia

JU N E 14 , 2018

Derek Green Shares Spring Outdoor Jazz

House seats. One seat in Washington County that had been a Democratic stronghold flipped and elected a Republican. The Republicans held onto a seat upstate. We did lose the special election in Bucks County to fill a seat vacated by SCOTT PETRI, who left to be the executive director of the Philadelphia Parking Authority. Republican WENDY THOMAS lost by 93 votes, but would have won if the Republicans who voted in that primary for her managed to find the special election column.

CHAIRMAN VAL DiGIORGIO and VICE CHAIRWOMAN BERNIE COMFORT spoke mainly of the importance of the group to start working now for our statewide candidates. DiGiorgio noted that we will be losing our female Republican National COMMITTEEWOMAN CHRISTINE TORETTI, as she more than likely will become the U.S. Ambassador to Malta.

CONGRESSMAN and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate LOU BARLETTA (R-Luzerne) was

Public Hearing Notice

L-R, DAN MUROFF, Dave Feldman and Larry Bell listened to Councilman Green’s message.

L-R WERE Craig & Jennifer Alleyne, Kelly Bauer, Councilman Derek Green and Greg David.

170467

180355

An Ordinance amending Title 2 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “City-County Consolidation,” by amending the Chief Assessment Officer’s authorization to set standards for the valuation of properties for taxation purposes; all under certain terms and conditions.

Resolution authorizing Council’s Committee on Legislative Oversight to hold hearings examining the Office of Property Assessment’s assessment system and the impact of increasing real estate taxes on Philadelphia households.

Immediately following the public hearing, a meeting of the Legislative Oversight Committee, open to the public, will be held to consider the action to be taken on the above listed items.

Copies of the foregoing items are available in the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Council, Room 402, City Hall.

GUESTS lined up for a springtime buffet.

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PHIL & BETTY Rivers enjoyed a relaxing evening with their favorite Councilman.

Michael Decker Chief Clerk

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The Legislative Oversight Committee of the Council of the City of Philadelphia will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at 1:00 PM, in Room 400, City Hall to hear testimony on the following items:

6/13/2018 10:48:42 AM

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POLS on the STREET (Cont. From Page 15) Kenney, whose brainchild the soda tax is, into predictable apoplexy.

Kenney teamed up with City Council President Darrell Clarke (with whom he

is not always on the same page) on a statement that an across-the-board sales-tax hike “would have a devastating impact on the retail industry that the beverage-industry lobbyists now claim is caused” by the beverage tax.

Beverage-industry lobbyist Tony Campisi is organizing this legislation. He is solidly

COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILA. COUNTY, PA CIVIL ACTION-LAW NO. 180403321 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff vs. Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest From or Under Bobsie May Mitchell Grant a/k/a Bobsie May Clair a/k/a Bobsie May Grant a/k/a Bobsie M. Clair, Deceased and Elaine Smith, in Her Capacity as Heir of Bobsie May Mitchell Grant a/k/a Bobsie May Clair a/k/a Bobsie May Grant a/k/a Bobsie M. Clair, Deceased, Defendant(s) To: Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest From or Under Bobsie May Mitchell Grant a/k/a Bobsie May Clair a/k/a Bobsie May Grant a/k/a Bobsie M. Clair, Deceased, Defendant(s), 310 North Redfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139.

COMPLAINT IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE You are hereby notified that Plaintiff, Bank of America, N.A., has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a Notice to Defend, against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Phila. County, PA, docketed to NO. 180403321, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 310 North Redfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139, whereupon your property would be sold by the Sheriff of Phila. County. NOTICE: YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the notice above, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH THE INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE. Lawyer Referral and Info. Service, Phila. Bar Assn., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19107, 215.238.1701. Jenine Davey, Atty. for Plaintiff, RAS CITRON, LLC, 133 Gaither Dr., Ste. F, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054, 855.225.6906.

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backed by Philadelphia beverage companies and grocery leaders like Jeff Brown, a ShopRite franchisee with a strong track record of working with Philadelphia’s Democrats and promoting progressive causes.

It’s a good try. But it will die. Gov. Wolf will veto it if it passes and there will not be the votes to override it.

Tax proposals like these above are votes for legislators to run on, not for them to govern with.

Pa. Budget Calm; Philly Thunderstorm By the time you read this newspaper, you’ll have a clearer idea of the shape of the City of Philadelphia’s 2018-19 budget than we did when we went to press.

That’s because a lot of its biggest features will be hammered out in City Council’s Thursday meeting. Two more weeks remain to fine-tune the details; typically, though, the mid-June Council meeting gives observers an accurate picture of the end game.

So call your Council member later this afternoon and ask what the City’s plan for next year is likely to look like.

Key issues are whether property tax should be hiked and wage tax should be maintained to pay for the School Board’s budget down the road, or whether savings can be found in ongoing City program not part of the Rebuild program – which is off limits even to soda-tax foes.

It’s hard for observers without accounting degrees and access to City books to say who’s right. Politically, though, kicking the revenue can down the road is the easiest course of action.

And our politicians, in the end, are no different from the rest of us: They want to get from here to Friday with as little aggro as possible.

Guv’s Race: How Bad Is Business in Pa.?

As is often the case, the Pennsylvania governor’s race centers on the econo-

my. Rightly or wrongly, voters expect the governor to make money for them.

So is Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf making money for you?

Depends on whom you ask.

The Pennsylvania Republican Party argues that Wolf’s economic record is a loser. PAGOP’s latest argument runs as follows: “The truth is, although the governor may be too out of touch to realize it, under his leadership Pennsylvania is at the bottom of the list in nearly every economic category. Below is a breakdown of economic statistics: “44 – Pennsylvania’s unemployment ranking.

“10 – Months Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate was stagnant at 4.8% before dropping by 0.1% in April.

“25 – Net percent Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate has shifted in comparison with the national average since Tom Wolf took office (Was 5% lower in January 2015 and is now over 20% higher.)

“46 – Pennsylvania’s ranking in terms of best state to find a job (Wallethub).

“45 – Pennsylvania’s ranking in terms of best state to start a business (Wallethub).

“44 – Pennsylvania’s corporate-tax ranking (Tax Foundation).

“39 – Pennsylvania’s overall economy ranking (Business Insider).”

All tough charges. But two facts complicate Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Wagner’s campaign. One matters little to voters – evidence; one matters more – everyday life.

The first problem is that Pennsylvania’s economy has been stagnant for generations, compared to other states. Hardly a right-vs.-left problem. Neither Democrats nor Republicans have demonstrated a magic formula to convert our Rustbelt economy into a Sunbelt economy. Making it a partisan issue, while impossible to avoid, is certain to be false.

The second problem is (Cont. Page 22)

CLUW Honors Women Leaders

SHEILA RANI MADDALI, ESQ.

JOANNE GAINEY

COUNCILWOMAN BLONDELL REYNOLDS BROWN

KOREN PARKER

BY JOHN OLIVER MASON HE PHILADELPHIA Chapter of the Coalition of Labor Union Women hosted its 2018 Achievement Awards Reception on June 5, at Workers United.

The Union Empowerment Award went to Joanne Gainey, President, Local 170; Chairperson, Board of Directors, Workers United; and CLUW Board member.

The Rising Star Award was given to Koren Parker, AFSCME Council 88; PA CLUW VP; and CLUW Board member.

The Lois Miller Appreciation Award was won by Jane Von Bergen, the former labor reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Community Engagement Awards were conferred on Philadelphia City Council-

woman Blondell Reynolds Brown (at Large) and Sheila Rani Maddali, director of Law & Organizing, Restaurant Opportunities Center Yvonne Harris, president, AFSCME Local 590, and CLUW Board member, was named Union Woman of the Year.

Aattendees were asked to bring a new book for a child of any age, to be given to children of incarcerated parents by “Messages from Mom and Dad,” a project of women’s organizations which Philly CLUW has been part of for many years.

CLUW celebrates the contributions of working women and men, honor outstanding leaders in the fight for justice and equality in the local and global communities, and in legislative and policy-making arenas.

NICOLE FULLER

YVONNE HARRIS

JANE VON BERGEN

LAURA WENTZ

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6/13/2018 10:58:46 AM

treasurer position along with new 48th Ward leader Anton Moore, a longtime criminal-justice activist.

Krasner’s allies also helped lead takeover efforts in Philadelphia’s 1st and 2nd Wards.

But Bennett is also focused on larger-scale ward reform strategies. Many of these efforts center around concerns that the local party’s ailing power structure has led to flagging youth recruitment and lower votSHANIA BENNETT, standing in front of the State Capitol.

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“I would always notice there weren’t young people at my ward meetings,” she said. “I thought we needed a young voice. Most of my friends aren’t even registered to vote.”

So, she decided to run for one of the city’s thousands of committee person positions that were vacant.

These small-time races typically garner just dozens of votes at best, but Bennett says she approached it like a competitive campaign – making signs to promote her candidacy, going door to door and, on primary day, spending the day at her local polling station.

“I stayed there all day.

People said, ‘You don’t even have an opponent!’” she recalled.

With advanced placement college credits under her belt from her time at the Girard Academic Music Program, Bennett will start at Penn State University Abington next year. She plans to put in time at the ward between classes and commuting to the suburban campus.

Overhauling the city’s justice system has been a common priority among younger, reform-minded candidates for City Committee, many of whom also nabbed seats in other sections of South Philly.

Bennett notably won her

COMMONWEALTH Of PA BOARD OF PARDONS The following application(s) of the person(s) convicted in Philadelphia County will be heard by the Board of Pardons at its regular session in the Supreme Court Courtroom, Room 437, Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg, PA. Wednesday, June 27, 2018 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Sharif R. Palmer Criminal Conspiracy, Receiving Stolen Property Thursday, June 28, 2018 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Steven M. Pittaoulis Robert J. Price

Brenda P. Redd Troy W. Richardson Kim Rispo Evette A. Robinson Renae M. Sims

Disorderly Conduct Possession of a Controlled Substance (2 cts.), Possession With Intent to Deliver Forgery, Criminal Conspiracy Criminal Conspiracy, Robbery Simple Assault, Aggravated Assault etail Thef6, Criminal Conspiracy Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault

JU N E 14 , 2018

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summer internship. I just emailed him on his House email.”

Improbably, hitting up her neighborhood rep worked out (Rep. Harris praised Bennett’s time at his office, and said politicos would do well to “remember her name”). Soon, Bennett was meeting other local electeds – like state Rep. Joanna McClinton, whom Bennett describes as “a mentor” – and doing campaign work for judicial candidates.

She was inspired to get more deeply involved in local politics after serving on Larry Krasner’s successful 2017 campaign to become Philadelphia DA. His progressive message about radically changing approaches to policing resonated with Bennett, who watched heavy-handed crime policies harm her peers.

“I was so mad I was too young to vote last year,” she joked, about working on Krasner’s campaign. “But something I’m very passionate about is criminal justice reform. I’m really interested in diversion programs so people don’t end up in prison, and ending the school-to-prison pipeline.”

But as she was drawn deeper into the world of Philadelphia politics, something nagged at Bennett.

other committee people age and disengage from political activism.

“I’m not saying I’m against older people; they have a lot of wisdom and knowledge,” she explained. “But my thing is that it seems like a lot of older people don’t go door to door anymore. I can’t tell you the last time I received political literature from people going door to- oor. I don’t see people putting up flyers.”

Thursday, June 28, 2018 – Convening at 1:00 P.M. Herbert J. Allen Carrying a Firearm Without a License, Carrying Firearms

on Public Streets or Public Property in Philadelphia Kathleen Boyer Obstructing Administration of Law or Governmental Function, Simple Assault William H. Smith Murder I, Aggravated Robbery Friday, June 29, 2018 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Alison M. Bennington Violation Public Welfare Code Clarence M. Brown Criminal Conspiracy, Simple Assault, Theft by Unlawful

Taking, Unauthorized Use of Auto Zapatito A. Jimenez Criminal Trespass Eric A. Matus Simple Assault, Criminal Conspiracy Ezekiel L. Rivers Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault Sharon Robinson Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault, Terroristic Threats, Intimidation of Witness Friday, June 29, 2018 – Convening at 1:00 P.M. Peter Fuller, Jr. James S. McCormick

Criminal Conspiracy, Burglary Simple Assault, Recklessly Endangering Another Person

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BY RYAN BRIGGS OR THOSE searching for a sign of fresh blood and new ideas injected into a city party that has changed little since sweeping to power in the 1950s, look no farther than South Philly where, last week, 18-year-old Shania Bennett was swept into a committeeperson spot in the 48th Ward’s 12th Division. Last night, she was elected as ward treasurer – likely the youngest in the city.

Raised in a poverty-stricken section of South Philadelphia, Bennett said her childhood experiences drove her toward community service. At 15, she says, she knew she wanted to do something to improve her neighborhood, but wasn’t sure exactly where to start.

“It was rough,” she said.

“Growing up there, you see so many wild things on a daily basis. I thought, ‘Someone has to change this.’”

She had put in time working at her church and after-school community service programs, but her vocation still remained unclear.

Her parents were interested in politics, she says, but they weren’t actively engaged.

“I was just looking for something to do,” she said.

“So, I reached out to (state Rep. Jordan Harris) for a

er turnout.

Unprompted, Bennett echoes many of these same concerns. She notes that it took a significant amount of time and research to figure out how, exactly, to even run for committee person – a position that is nominally the welcome mat for individuals looking to become more active within the local Democratic Party. Such roadblocks hinder younger candidates from getting involved as

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Teenage Criminal-Justice Reformer Wins Philly Ward Election

6/13/2018 10:45:39 AM

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POLS on the STREET (Cont. From Page 20) that even in laggard Pennsylvania, times are pretty good now – especially in the urban Southeast. What do voters in Allentown and

Lancaster and the Philadelphia region actually have to complain about? Why should they rise up against the incumbent Gov. Wolf?

Voters northwest of the Blue Ridge have more reason to complain. Their counties are stagnant. But they voted against Wolf

Court of Common Pleas Phila. County Civil Action – Law No. 180400132 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Ditech Financial LLC, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased, Dianna Jones, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased & Alvin D. Williams, Jr., Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: The Unknown Heirs of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased, Dianna Jones, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased & Alvin D. Williams, Jr., Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Alvin D. Williams, Sr. a/k/a Alvin Williams, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants, whose last known address is 2629 Wilder Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146. This firm is a debt collector and we are attempting to collect a debt owed to our client. Any information obtained from you will be used for the purpose of collecting the debt.

You are hereby notified that Plaintiff, Ditech Financial LLC, has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Phila. County, PA, docketed to No. 180400132, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 2629 Wilder Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146, whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Phila. County. Notice: You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after the Complaint and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.

You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer or cannot afford one, go to or telephone the office set forth below. This office can provide you with information about hiring a lawyer. If you cannot afford to hire a Lawyer, this office may be able to provide you with information about agencies that may offer legal services to eligible persons at a reduced fee or no fee. Community Legal Services, Inc., Law Center North Central, 1410 W. Erie Ave., Phila., PA 19140, 215.227.2400/215.981.3700.

Phila. Bar Assn., One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19104, 215.238.6333. Michael T. McKeever, Atty. for Plaintiff, KML Law Group, P.C., Ste. 5000, Mellon Independence Center, 701 Market St., Phila., PA 19106, 215.627.1322.

PPR_p022.indd 4

last time and still lost. They came out for Trump and won – but continued to lose, economically. Voting will not fix their problems.

After a while, protest-voter fatigue is apt to set in.

While the Keystone

State’s political leaders have seldom shone in advancing its economic competitiveness vis-à-vis the rest of the world, they have seldom paid a price at the polls for it either.

Don’t expect anyone to win

the November election in Pennsylvania based solely on the notion that the incumbents aren’t good at business. Too many Pennsylvanians are accustomed to not being good at business, accustomed to hang-

ing on, accustomed to going sideways – accustomed to the accursed status quo.

They’ll keep on living with that. And they’ll wind up living with their incumbents, more often than not.

Sheriff’s Office Reaches Communities

SHERIFF Jewell Williams, center, and deputies on post at Philadelphia’s Pride Day parade.

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HE OFFICE OF THE Sheriff will inform and help promote a safer summer for all Philadelphia residents by reaching out to communities across the city. This weekend, Sheriff Jewell Williams, staff and deputies distributed information about office services, gave away free gunlocks and were present to answer community questions at several events in various parts of the city:

• • •

•

The Northwest: Councilwoman Cindy Bass’ Community Day in Vernon Park.

South Philly: Pennovation Center 2nd Annual Job Fair, 3401 Grays Ferry Ave. South Philly: the 43rd annual Odunde Festival, the nation’s largest African American street festival.

Center City: Philly Pride Day, Celebrating Philadelphia’s LGBT Community at Penn’s Landing.

Throughout the summer of 2018, the Sheriff’s Office will make it a priority to get free gunlocks into the hands of families with

SHERIFF Williams and Judge Daniel Anders, Philadelphia’s first openly gay judge.

small children, using Philadelphia’s rich tradition of street and ethnic festivals and community outreach events to push a public safety message: “Got a Gun, Get a Lock.” Gunlocks have been proven to be an effective prevention device and protection against childhood accidental shootings.

The sheriff is also determined to help citizens find out more about the operation of the Sheriff’s Office, about opportunities to buy properties at Sheriff’s Sales, and to give residents with

SHERIFF Williams and Odunde’s Bumi Fernan-

questions about properties involved in the Sheriff Sale process a chance to find the answers they deserve.

Upcoming events on the Sheriff’s Office Summer Calendar includes the following:

•

•

Saturday, June 16, Deliverance Evangelistic Church, Health Fair, 2001 W. Lehigh Avenue, 10 a.m.

Saturday, June 16, 24th Police District Community Day, 3399 Aramingo Avenue, Old

•

•

Pathmark Parking Lot, 10 a.m.

Saturday, June 23, Juneteenth Parade & Freedom Festival, Market Street Parade ending at Penn’s Landing, 12 p.m.

Thursday, June 28, Strawberry Mansion Neighborhood Advisory Committee, Rebuilding Communities Fair, 6 p.m.

For more information about the Sheriff’s Office, visit www.phillysheriff.com.

6/13/2018 11:56:19 AM

BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: Why should I use a bankruptcy attorney?

Q

chapter you should file under, how to value assets, how to fill out the schedules and Means Test, what needs to be included and what can be excluded. They don’t have obligations to the state bar or to the Bankruptcy Court. They usually don’t have malpractice insurance. They won’t appear with you for the Meeting of Creditors, or court hearings. They can’t advise you … and my clients need advice about what they should do.

I’ve taken over a lot of cases where clients “saved money” by paying a peti-

tion preparer. When they get in trouble because the papers are filled out wrong, or information was omitted, or they “didn’t know what they didn’t know,” they come to see me.

Sometimes I can fix the problems, usually for a higher fee than they would have paid me in the first place. After all, it costs a lot less if it’s done right in the first place.

Sometimes, I can’t fix things. I’ve seen people lose houses, cars, businesses, tens of thousands of dollars, and even their freedom, all because they

wanted to save a few bucks.

Lots of people think that filing for bankruptcy is just “filling in a few forms.” It isn’t. Filing for bankruptcy is serious business, even for a consumer-debtor with modest assets and a debt structure that seems straightforward.

The gravity and complexity of seeking bankruptcy relief have risen greatly. They are both functional in nature (e.g., the daunting length of the necessary forms; the heightened statutory obligation to be complete and accurate in

answering every last bit of it; timely dealing with the trustee’s requirements and the demands of secured creditors) and legal (e.g., recognizing and properly scheduling and treating interests in intangible assets; electing a claim of exemptions between state and federal law….

All of this is best, most safely, and most predictably handled through representation by a Bankruptcy Board Certified Attorney.

Next Week’s Question: Buying a house after filing bankruptcy?

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

understanding BANKRUPTCY

Most of my clients don’t have a lot of money. If they need to file for bankruptcy, they’ve usually gotten ads from “Bankruptcy Petition Preparers.” These folks advertise that they can prepare someone’s bankruptcy papers a whole lot cheaper than lawyers.

They’re right. They can prepare your bankruptcy papers a whole lot cheaper than lawyers. Why? They’re not lawyers!

They don’t need to go to law school. They don’t need to know bankruptcy law. They’re prohibited by law from offering legal advice – such as which

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PPR_p024.indd 4 6/13/2018 10:08:43 AM