Philadelphia Public Record

Vol. XIV No. 49

Issue 984

December 6, 2018

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

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BLUMBERG COMEBACK

GROUND was broken Tuesday on the latest phase of the rebuilding of the Blumberg PHA project in Sharswood, with 83 units of affordable housing. PHA CEO Kelvin Jeremiah addressed attendees as he shared the podium with, L-R, Congressman Dwight Evans, Council President Darrell Clarke, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and HUD Regional Administrator Joe DeFelice. Photo by Wendell Douglas

DUELING ATTORNEY GENERALS P. 4

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New Hopes, Challenges for Environmental Activists

BY TONY WEST DVOCATES for stronger environmental protections will see increased influence in both state and national governments. That was the message of a panel discussion held by PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center at Friends Center on Cheery Street.

Chris Borick, a pollster and professor at the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion, shared analysis of the outcome of the 2018 election, coupled with his findings of public opinion on environmental issues, which he called “the nexus of my career.”

Midterm elections usually punish the president’s party, noted Borick, and this year’s results were severe on Republicans – a true “blue wave.”

Major factors in the shift toward Democrats are age, gender and education.

Women, college graduates and people under 45 trended heavily toward the left.

But geographical and ideological sorting became more extreme. Most urban and suburban areas voted

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OPINION

BY CURT SCHRODER HERE APPEARS to be a special place in judicial hell reserved for the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.

After appearing on the American Tort Reform Foundation’s nationwide Hellholes list last year as No. 6, there is no signifi-

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solidly Democratic even as Republicans gained ground in small towns and the countryside. Both in the Keystone State and the nation as a whole, losers tended to be moderates in both parties, leaving legislatures with fewer forgers of compromise to bridge the aisle.

In addition, the federal government, like a growing number of states, now has a division of power.

As a result, Borick predicted, little productive lawmaking will be done in the next two years. “Expect ‘show legislation’ in which legislators promote causes of their base that won’t go anywhere,” he said.

But much can happen in terms of oversight. At the national level, Borick said the new Democratic majority in the House of Representatives can bring heavy pressure on the Trump administration’s Department of the Interior and Environmental Protection Agency.

There are signs that voters are swinging toward conservation, despite high-profile losses like in Washington state, where a carbon-tax initiative was defeated by a 56-44% mar-

A PROJECTOR cast their identities as environmentalists almost like a brand on their faces – and it is one they are proud to wear. Anticipating a strong political hand after the 2018 election were, L-R, environmental pollster Chris Borick, PennEnvironment Executive Director David Masur and Stephanie Wein, Clean Water and Conservation Advocate

gin. In Nevada, for example, they supported a renewable-energy mandate.

Opinion on global warming is swinging back to favor serious action. After an eight-year dip in belief in climate change, public acknowledgement of the problem is back to a 72% high. Recent extreme weather events are cited by 70% as being caused in part by climate change.

Even 50% of Republicans now say they see evidence of climate change.

David Masur, PennEnvi-

ronment’s executive director, addressed the political landscape for environmentalists in Pennsylvania in the coming year. He, too, thought it unlikely that there would be major substantive legislation on this front; but he said, “A stalemate can be a good thing.”

Republicans have lost their veto-proof majority in the State Senate, so Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf will shoot down any bill they pass that would weaken environmental standards.

A host of new Democrats

will take seats on Capitol Hill in Harrisburg. Many of them, such as Philadelphia’s Elizabeth Fiedler, ran aggressively on environmental issues.

Masur said the mission of environmentalists like these will be to form relationships with rural Republicans on causes that matter to their districts – of which there are many. In terms of square mileage, most of “the environment” lies in these rural districts and rural residents do care about their land, water and air.

cant improvement in Philadelphia’s position this year.

If Pennsylvania truly wants to attract marquee employers, having just lost its bid for Amazon, Philadelphia needs to get off this list.

Neither the city nor the state will ever catch a big-name company or significantly grow its jobs climate until Pennsylvania improves its judicial footing and cleans up its liability climate.

It is astounding that Philadelphia continues to ignore important United States Supreme Court decisions providing jurisdictional due process protections and limiting where cases can be

filed in a state. Under the US Supreme Court’s Daimler AG v. Bauman and Bristol-Myers Squibb decisions, there is no good reason why 84% of the cases in Philadelphia against pharmaceutical companies are filed by out-of-state plaintiffs.

Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas continues to be a magnet for mass tort claims from across the country and the court continues to look the other way when forum shopping occurs. When over 5,000 product-liability cases are filed against drug manufacturers in one year, up from 1,000 to 1,300 filed in 2015 and 2016, some-

thing is amiss.

The year 2018 also revealed the workers’ compensation scheme where injured workers were receiving unproven, overpriced medications through compounding pharmacies, one of which was owned by a major Philadelphia workers’-compensation law firm. The silence from the Philadelphia bar and those responsible for ethical oversight of attorneys, in light of this conflict of interest, was deafening. The appointment of a partner from the pharmacy-owning law firm to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s Disciplinary

Board defied credulity.

The Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform will continue to identify problems with our courts and the practice of civil law as we look to clean up the litigation climate. We commend ATRA for its efforts to bring the Philadelphia problem to national attention. Hopefully, this type of transparency will bring about reforms and a chance for Philadelphia to attract business and jobs other than through litigation tourism.

Curt Schroder is executive director of Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform.

Courts Jammed by Pharma Suits

The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($20 per year Optional Subscription) The South Philadelphia Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 755-2000 Fax: (215) 525-2818 editor@phillyrecord.com EDITORIAL STAFF In Memoriam:James Tayoun, Sr. Editor/Publisher: Greg Salisbury Managing Editor: Anthony West Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Everyday People Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Editor: Eldon Graham Photographers: Leona Dixon

Wendell Douglas

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Teamsters 628

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AMES F. KENNEY, Mayor Jim Kenney’s father, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, Dec. 4. He was 83 years old. Funeral arangements are pending.

The Mayor will have no public appearances the remainder of the week. The Mayor’s Office asks that the public and media respect the family’s privacy at this time.

Here is James F Kenney, a Firefighter for 22 years, with a young future Mayor Kenney.

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James F Kenney Passing

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JAMES F KENNEY, firefighter

APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Applications for Carpenter, Mill/Cabinetmaker, Millwright, Wharf & Dock Builder and Resilient Floor Layer apprenticeships will be accepted by the Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Committee on the following dates: January 15, 16, 17, Saturday January 19, January 22, 23, 24, Saturday January 26, January 29, 30, 31 and Saturday, February 2, 2019. Applications will be accepted from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. only. The test day is Saturday, March 9, 2019. A non-refundable $35.00 administrative processing fee is required. Anyone interested must call 215-824-2303 for further details.

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The Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Fund of Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties admits students of any race, color, religion, gender, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan agreements, and any other school-administered programs. Information can be obtained by writing to the Carpenters JATC, 10401 Decatur Road, Phila., PA 19154, by calling 215-824-2303 or at our web site www.carpentersofphila.com.

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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

One AG Takes on Another

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POLS on the STREET

BY JOE SHAHEELI ENNSYLVANIA Attorney General Josh Shapiro does not shrink from the national spotlight. Last week, he took on his counterpart in the nation’s capital, Matthew Whitaker, who was appointed to replace U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

“President Donald Trump’s appointment of Matthew Whitaker as acting attorney general is unlawful, it ignores vacancy succession statutes, and it violates Congress’ controlling statutory designation of the Deputy Attorney General as the Acting Attorney General,” Shapiro announced.

“Yesterday, I led a coa-

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lition of 15 state attorneys general to file an amicus brief seeking to stop Whitaker from exercising the authority of the United States attorney general.

“The U.S. Attorney General takes many actions that fundamentally affect the lives of Pennsylvania residents, and my office works closely with the Department of Justice on a daily basis.

Therefore, Pennsylvania and the other states joining the brief have a compelling interest in the Justice Department’s ability to work effectively and consistently under the rule of law.

“All actions taken by an Acting Attorney General who is legally ineligible to serve could be vulnerable to challenge, which creates grave risks for Pennsylvanians and our justice system.”

Shapiro’s legal action will surely have to prevail in the U.S. Supreme Court, where Trump has strong backing.

But it may do better in federal appellate courts and

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State Senator

Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District

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

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

may also serve to paralyze Whitaker temporarily.

It’s hard to say who will prevail in the end. But we feel safe in saying that Shapiro’s legal reputation is higher than Whitaker’s.

Lowery Brown Gets off Lightly

State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown (D-W. Phila.) did relatively well when she was sentenced for corruption last week. She was given probation and ordered to repay the $4,000 in bribes she took from an informant who was working with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

Lowery Brown has said she will appeal. But this outcome was not so bad for her.

She may lose a state pension and health benefits. But she has established a worthy track record of constituent service in her hardscrabble district and will be free to seek employment based on that record.

Residents deserve a far more human approach to navigating this process.

PA Attorney General Josh Shapiro “Additionally, I will create diverse mentorship initiatives to help Philadelphia law enforcement employees attain their professional goals as well as provide the training, resources and a healthy working environState Rep.

Councilwoman

Kevin J.

Jannie L. Blackwell

Boyle

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

172nd Dist.

7420 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136

215-331-2600

State Rep. Jason

State Senator

Dawkins District Office:

Sharif

Street 1621 W. Jefferson 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.

Philadelphia, PA 19121

215-227-6161 Paid for with PA Tax Dollars

Phila PA 19148

P: 215-849-6426

Councilman Wm.

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

Rep.Maria P.

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

State Rep.

William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street

215-271-9190 Representative

Angel Cruz

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

1st District City Hall Room 332

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

310 W. Chelten Ave.

Gov. Tom Wolf’s timely announcement to appoint

Squilla

191st Leg. Dist.

6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139

198th District

GOP: Commission Or not Commission?

a bipartisan commission on redistricting reform puts Harrisburg Democrats in a tight spot.

If they participate in the commission, they will likely find that most Pennsylvanians, (Cont. From Prev. Page)

Mark

McClinton

Rep. Rosita

ment for sheriff office employees to reach their highest potential.”

Councilman

State Rep.

Joanna E.

Youngblood

US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker

215-686-3458/59 State Rep.

Donna

Bullock 195th Leg. Dist.

2835 W. Girard Ave Phila, PA 19130

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

Kay Kyungsun Yu Goes for Judgeship

Attorney Kay Kyungsun Yu came out in public to pursue a goal she has been pursuing in public for many months: to win a judgeship in the 2019 Democratic primary.

“My story is similar to that of so many Philadelphia families,” Yu wrote in her announcement, “one of

Quaker involvement in the concerns of Koreans, who were being brutally colonized by the Japanese Empire at that time.

Today, Korean American Philadelphians matter politically. They have two City Council members out of 17.

It is inevitable that one of their lawyers will someday wind up on the bench.

KAY KYUNGSUN YOU is planning a run for a Philadelphia judgeship.

READ THE PAPER LEADERS READ: - THE PUBLIC

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(Cont. From Prev. page) even many Republicans, don’t like the idea of gerrymandering and would prefer a system with at least a stab at fairness. And gerrymandering is an art their current General Assembly leadership is invested in.

But if they don’t participate, then their Democratic colleagues have announced they surely will. And it shouldn’t be hard for Wolf to find some Republican surrogates to sit in the place of actual party leadership.

The wiser course would be for the State GOP to grit their teeth and join in, hoping to shape the eventual narrative in their favor.

resilience, courage, and perseverance. Since receiving deportation notices for my family in middle school, I have understood the power of the law to shape all of our lives. Through navigating the immigration system, I found the fuel to not only serve as my own advocate but also help others find their own voices because I know that we are all at our best when we feel empowered, valued, and connected.

“Now more than ever, Philadelphia needs diverse representation, and I would be honored to serve as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s first Korean American judge. If elected, I pledge to listen intently, consider wisely, and decide fairly - all in pursuit of equal access to justice for all.”

We prefer to downplay ethnicity in this newspaper because all Americans are or should be equal in political rights regardless of their ethnicity.

But Yu is one more sign of the emerging political importance of Philadelphia’s Korean American community. It actually dates back 100 years, thanks to

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POLS on the STREET

Season’s Greetings, Friends!

Please call or email: mbarrett@phillyrecord.com Melissa Barrett 215-755-2000 Ext. 5 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 • Philadelphia PA 19107 for advertising information.

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On December 20th, we will publish our annual Holiday Issue. Please join us in sending warm wishes this holiday season.

Fair Is Fair

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OPINION

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e’re fairly certain that the writers responsible for the most-memorable quote from the 1985 film The Legend of Billie Jean ever dreamed that it would one day apply to the plight of hourly workers in Philadelphia and across the country. But “Fair is fair!” is an apt rallying cry for a panoply of employees’ continuing efforts to level the playing field in their favor.

Like too many cities, Philadelphia has been a ground zero for these ac-

ers employ “at will” and fluid scheduling options is clear enough – they want to have the maximum amount of flexibility to control their labor costs according to the amount of business forecasted to come through their door on any given week. The reasons why such scheduling plays havoc with the lives of employees and their loved ones is just as clear.

We don’t have an answer for the business community leaders crying foul over the legislation for fear of putting them at a competitive disadvantage, but we would caution them to look at previous examples of where fair work weeks and higher minimum wages have been enforced – the sky did not fall; in fact, it is often just the opposite.

Book Mail Bounced get it properly delivered?

Maureen Broscius Margadonna

LETTER to the EDITOR

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tions, most notably the “Fight for 15,” which centers on raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour from its current $7.50 an hour – a lamentably low figure that hasn’t been raised in the state since 2008 and which, if applied to a 40-hour week over a year, would leave a family of four some $9,000 below the federal poverty line.

Today in Philadelphia City Council, the next battle will be fought, this time over what has been labeled a “fair work week.” Council will vote on whether to approve a bill that would require employers to provide their employees with consistent scheduling and, if necessary, a fair amount of advance notice for any changes to their schedules.

The reasons why employ-

USED THE Department of Corrections’ new system (“Inmates to receive Reading Matter Again,” Nov. 8) to send an Amazon book to my son and it was not able to be delivered to Sec. Processing Center (inmate name) (inmate number) SCI Chester 628 Bricker Road Bellefonte, PA 16823 Was it returned because the facility was closed on Sunday? How can Amazon

EDITOR’S REPLY: Margadonna was one of three readers who reported this problem to us in recent weeks.

Department of Corrections spokeswoman Amy Worden told us that they had run into an unexpected problem with the United States Postal Service in creating this new address, but that the problem has been solved as of this week.

So please re-send your printed matter to inmates using that address.

Worden cautioned readers, however, to follow all the procedures outlined in that article. Private individuals cannot send reading matter; it must come from a recognized vendor or donor organization. While the Department of Corrections has amended its edict from earlier this year regarding mail, this has not changed.

MARK your CALENDAR Dec. 6- Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown is hosted Cocktail Reception at Palm Restaurant, 200 S. Broad St., 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Honored guest: Council President Darrell Clarke.

Entrepreneurs $250, Developers $500, Ground Breakers $1,000, PAC Sponsors $2,500. Payable to “Friends of Blondell Reynolds Brown,” P.O. Box 22556, Phila., PA 19110.RSVP: Kristen (215) 327-6031.

Dec. 6- City Council candidate Beth Finn hosts Campaign Launch Party

The News in Black & White

FRESHLY restored as of last Sunday is the mural in Spring Garden commemorating the legendary Dixie Hummingbirds gospel group. Photo by Leona Dixon

at 1026 Catharine St., 5:30 p.m. Hanukkah theme with latkes. RSVP: bit.ly/Beth4PHLLatkes.

Dec. 6- SEAMAAC hosts Winter Ball Fundraiser at Hilton Phila., 4200 City Line Ave., 6-10 p.m., cocktails 6-7 p.m. Dinner, drinks & dance; silent auction & raffle. Valet service. Evening or formal attire. For tickets: seamaacball. brownpapertickets.com. For info: (215) 467-0690.

Dec. 7- Councilwoman Cherelle Parker hosts Wadsworth Ave. Holiday Lighting Ceremony at 1500 b. Wadsworth Aver., 5-7 p.m. Entertainment, free food, arts & crafts, face-painting, photos wigth Santa & Mrs. Claus.

For info: (215) 686-3454 Dec. 10-State Sen. Art Haywood hosts Open Enrollment for ACA Healthcare at Oak St. Health, 2401 W. Cheltenham Ave., 5-7:30 p.m. Beat the Dec. 15 deadline! For info: (215) 242-8171.

Dec. 10- City Council candidate Isaiah Thomas hosts

Holiday Party at Dist. 1199C, 1319 Locust St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. For info: Dominique Miller (609) 784-4513.

Dec. 12- Councilman Derek Green hosts Reception at Haute Lounge & Restaurant, 1420 Locust St., 5-7:30 p.m. Contribution levels $3,000, $1,000, $250. Payable to “The Green Fund.” RSVP: Cole Dougherty (215) 251-0585 or cole@rittenhousepolitical.com.

Dec. 12- State Sen. Sharif Street hosts Reception at Rosewood, 1302 Walnut St., 5:30-7 p.m. Platinum $10,000, Gold $5,000, Silver $2,500, Bronze $1,000, Tickets $100.

Payable to “Friends of Sharif Street,” P.O. Box 28854, Phila., PA 19151 or http:// www.satreetforsenate.com.

For info: (267) 275-2120.

Dec. 13- Sheriff candidate Rochelle Bilal hosts Fundraiser at X-Mark’s the Spot, 4128 N. Broad St., 6-8:30 p.m. Donation levels $27-500.

Dec. 15- State Sen. Vincent Hughes hosts “Breaking the Silence: Focus on You/ Focus on Family” at HS of the Future, 4021 Parkside Ave., 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Topics: Blended families, loss, racism in the workplace, life transitioning & more. Space is limited. RSVP: (215) 879-7777 or Tammy.

Hoskins@pasenate.com.

Dec. 15- State Rep. Jared Solomon hosts Town Hall Mtrg. at Exchange, 6434 Castor Ave., 10 a.m. Harrisburg issues past & future.

For info: (717) 787-7895.

Dec. 15- Ironworkers’ Local 401 hosts “Christmas Benefit Night” at Bridgemen’s Ha., 11600 Norcom Rd., 7 p.m. Supporting sick & injured members & families. Tickets $30, tables $300.

Payable to “Local 401 Supplemental Welfare Fund.” For info: Kevin Boyle (215) 676-3000.

Dec. 17- Judicial candidate Kay Kyungsun (Cont. Page 14)

L-R, PHILLY investor Al Fieay, City Council atlarge candidate Melissa Robbins, and Community Activist Fred Druding, Jr. share a moment at the Pen n s yl va n ia Society weekend.

CITY COMMISSIONER candidate Luigi Borda gets some advice from a former candidate for City Commissioner herself, Tracey Gordon, and Northeast Philly Democratic Ward Leader Pete McDermott.

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Seen at the Pennsylvania Society

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MICHAEL BLAKE, 3rd from L, Democratic candidate for New York City controller, was honored at a reception. Special guest State Sen. Sharif Street, L, is joined in support of Blake with Nancy Mills, Pennsylvania Democratic State Party chairwoman; host Fred Dix; SincerĂŠ Harris, executive director of Pennsylvania Democrats; and David Dix, CEO of Luminous Strategies.

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CELLPHONE cameras were a clicking at the chic Remi Restaurant in Manhattan during the District Council 1199C Solidarity Reception honoring State Sen. Vincent Hughes, Ethelind Baylor and Tracy Hardy. The honorees were flanked by Chris Woods, executive VP of NUHHCE, L; Ryan Boyer, business manager of Laborers District Council; and State Sen. Sharif Street, R.

STATE SEN. Sharif Street, L, joined Attorney General Josh Shapiro and political consultant Dawn Chavous at one affair.

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FLANKING City Commissioner candidate Luigi Borda at the Pennsylvania Society weekend were political consultant Aubrey Montgomery and State Sen. Sharif Street. As usual the annual weekend drew movers and shakers from across Pennsylvania to New York.

Pennsylvania’s Elite Movers and Shakers

CONGRESSWOMAN-ELECT Chrissy Houlahan with, L-R, Michael Alexander, director of regional affairs for the Israeli embassy, and Israel Nitzan, Deputy Consul General of Israel. Houlahan had come straight from Washington to the Hilton in New York for Pennsylvania Society festivities. Photos by Bonnie Squires

AT THE 1199C reception Friday night, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, L, talked with Henry Nicholas.

AT THE 1199C reception Friday night, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, L, talked with Henry Nicholas.

HOUSE SPEAKER Mike Turzai and his wife Dr. Lydia Turzai greeted guests at their Friday night reception

Cozen O’Connor’s reception attracted, L-R, hosts Steve Cozen and Pat O’Connor, Commonwealth Court Judge James Colins, former Gov. Bill Richardson and former Gov. Ed Rendell.

FRIDAY NIGHT saw former State Sen. Bill DeWeese, L, who was escorting State Sen. Camera Bartolotta, talking with former Montco Chairman Marcel Groen.

MARIAN TASCO, front L, and her posse attended several receptions over the weekend.

CO-HOSTING the Cozen O’Connor reception were, L-R, Joe & Bev Gerber and CEO Michael Heller.

AT THE Cozen O’Connor reception were, Rae & Jerry Johnson with Bernard & Cathy Lee.

The Metropolitan Caucus reception saw Bill Sasso and Donald “Guy” Generals, president of Community College of Philadelphia.

STATE SEN. Tommy Tomlinson, L, shared a moment with Congressman Brendan Boyle.

ARRIVING at the Manhattan Midtown Hilton around the same time were, L-R, Eleanor Dezzi, State Sen. Vince Hughes, Nicole White and Bonnie Squires.

COUNCILMAN Derek Green, R, co-hosted The League of 1789 annual reception, where he got to chat with State Sen. Sharif Street, L, and Laborers’ District Council leader Ryan Boyer.

AT U.S. SEN. Bob Casey’s reception were, L-R, State Rep. Donna Bullock, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, Councilwoman Maria Quiñones-Sánchez and Rev. Bonnie Camarda, Salvation Army head.

L-R, REV. Lorina Marshall-Blake, head of Independence Blue Cross, and Montgomery County Commission Chair Val Arkoosh were at the Casey fundraiser.

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D E C E M B E R 6, 2018

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PENN ALSO welcomed, L-R, Pennsylvania Treasurer Joe Torsella, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and Congressman Conor Lamb.

AT THE DINNER, Judith Myer, L, past president of the ADL, was happy to see Comcast VP Stephanie Kosta.

ATTORNEY GENERAL Josh Shapiro found time to talk with Liz Preate Havey, a Republican leader in the suburbs whose dad Ernie Preate is a former AG.

ALSO at the Penn Club was Gov. Ed Rendell, seated, with Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, Lynette Brown Sow and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown.

Alan Kessler, L, walked to receptions with Kelsey Trainor and Michael Adler.

AT THE DINNER honoring Brian Roberts were, L-R, Rhonda Cohen, Terese & U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, and Penn President Amy Gutmann.

ELEANOR DEZZI, L, always books a table at the Pennsylvania Society dinner with Larry Pitt, Esq. and his wife Phyllis (and Bonnie Squires, the Public Record’s contributing editor).

LOCAL 1199C political expert Linda Fields, L, was happy to support U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and chat with Nancy Patton Mills, chair of the state Democratic Committee.

L-R WERE newly elected State Sen. Tim Kearney, State Rep. Leanne Krueger-Braneky, Deborah Klehr of the Education Law Center and Sharon Ward at the Penn Club.

Brian Roberts, the CEO of Comcast, was the honoree at the Pennsylvania Society’s big dinner Saturday night.

His mother Suzanne Roberts was happy to congratulate her son.

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HOSTING the Penn Brunch was President Amy Gutmann, here welcoming Chris Franklin, CEO of Aqua America.

REPRESENTING the suburbs at the Casey reception were power attorney John Saler with his daughter Lizzy and former Delaware County Democratic Chair David Landau with his wife Stephanie.

TRIBUTE was paid to immediate past executive director of the Pennsylvania Society Carol Fitzgerald, who was there with her husband Judge Jim Fitzgerald.

SEVERAL pre-Pennsylvania Society receptions were held in Philly right before the New York reception, including the Genevieve Society’s, held at the Oar Club at Park Towne Place. Seen here are, L-R, Judge Maria McLaughlin, Eleanor Dezzi (one of the founders) and Ivory Allison. The nonprofit encourages women to run for office and stand for corporate board memberships.

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MAYOR Jim Kenney, L, talked with Jim Brown, a longstanding aide of the Casey family, at the Casey reception.

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Take Their Weekend Retreat in Manhattan

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PHA Properties Recognized For Management Excellence

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HE PENNSYLVANIA Apartment Association recognized five Philadelphia Housing Authority sites for excellence through its “Best in Apartment Living” awards.

“We’re committed to meeting the highest standards of the housing industry,” said PHA President & CEO Kelvin Jeremiah.

“Each residence has to be a home that raises people’s spirits while PHA service programs open doors to opportunities, so residents can advance themselves economically. To win any of these highly competitive

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

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

PHA CEO Kelvin Jeremiah

awards, a development has to record scores in the 90% range.”

Queen Lane Apartments won a Platinum Award for Maintenance Excellence and a Silver Award for Community Excellence.

This modern development, which contains a historic burial ground, replaced an obsolete high-rise development, opening almost three years ago in the city’s Germantown neighborhood.

Queen’s Row, located near the Queen Lane rail station, won a Gold Award for Maintenance Excellence.

Gladys B. Jacobs in the Poplar neighborhood and Plymouth Hall located in Hunting Park won Silver Awards for Maintenance Excellence.

Nellie Reynolds Gardens, located in North Philadelphia’s Stanton neighborhood, won a Silver Award for Community Excellence with a score of 98%. Five other PHA developments in this category scored well, too, although not quite high enough for an award. However, PHA received a score of 93% for overall community excellence.

The entries in the Association contest were judged by team members from Market Viewpoint, a market research firm based in Chester County, which measures and manages customer experiences.

The firm serves varied and diverse industries concerned with customer satisfaction, including real estate, apartments, new homes and senior housing.

Earlier this year, the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials honored PHA with the 2018 Award for Blumberg Phase I. The development is part of a $632 million transformation plan for the Sharswood neighborhood just north of Center City.

EVERYDAY PEOPLE

BY DENISE CLAY ’M PROBABLY one of the few people out there who hasn’t picked up a copy of Michelle Obama’s memoir, “Becoming.”

It’s not that I’m not interested in reading it, because I am. She was the nation’s first Black First Lady and, having watched her and her husband Barack as the nation’s first Black First Family, I await an honest telling of a story that tended to piss a lot of us off on the outside looking in.

Besides, this book has sold two million copies. My

I

began telling white families to leave the integrated neighborhood that the Robinsons moved into in Chicago, a young Michelle noticed that the white friends she had grown up with weren’t in classes with her anymore, Obama said.

As a straight-A student from a nuclear family, this didn’t make a lot of sense.

“These families were fleeing from us,” Obama said. “Let’s just stop there because we’ve got a lot of that going on now where people are making assumptions about who people are based on nationalities and skin color. The families who were told to be afraid of families like ours…it’s not the fact that this what it is, it’s what it says to the families that are feared.”

“It does something to kids like me who are getting straight A’s and playing with their dolls and their fathers are going to work,” Obama continued. “The (Cont. Page 13)

BY JOE SHAY STIVALA ORD ON THE STREET is that the City Assessment office has already completed assessments for the YEAR 2020! Is this absurd fiction? Maybe it is just ABSURD to predict what the marketplace will be like in 2020, let alone 2019.

This action is rumored to be ready this month or in January(?). The City decision makers looking so far into the future must have studied under Johnny Carson’s KARNAK (?) These 2020

W

CITY HALL SAM

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OV. TOM WOLF invited former MAYOR MIKE BLOOMBERG to the state of Pennsylvania. They visited the Bridgeway School in the Holmesburg neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia. The visit was to spend time with kids from the only recovery high school in Pennsylvania. Interestingly, none of the local state representatives, senators or members of City Council who helped get the school going were at the event.

Pennsylvania has one of the highest overdose death

blamed. If some think they 11 can harm Johnson’s re-election chances with such attacks, they will FAIL. The trial of State Rep. Vanessa BROWN is over.

It has been called politically fraught. The sentencing judge noted conflicting FBI testimony, a controversial undercover operative, racial and political overtones, and other troubling aspects.

The sentence given was not great, yet the appeal should go forward. Brown is the kindest, gentlest, most-caring elected figure in a long while – and a VICTIM of a sleazy SCAM. Kathleen KANE, on assuming office, entered a man’s world. A lot of good ole boys wanted her out.

Some newly elected Congresswomen do not want Nancy Pelosi to be Speaker of the House.

They speak for the future. Yet, Pelosi might be the perfect counterweight (Cont. Next Page)

rates in America. So far it looks like the safe-injection sites and methadone treatment, along with the life-saving Narcan, are helping significantly. Many folks in the legislature including Bensalem STATE REP. GENE DiGIROLAMO, have worked hard to mandate treatment. “Mandate” is usually a dirty word to Republicans because it means spending money. But the reason the Bloomberg visit was hyped was his commitment to give $10 million to finding a solution to the opioid crisis in Pennsylvania. $10 million is a proverbial drop in the bucket, a mere pittance.

One way to solve the problem is to mandate insurance companies cover verified opioid addiction cases for a minimum of 28 days. Most of the experts agree that’s the best and only treatment to save lives.

The Pennsylvania legislature did a great job on mandating treatment services

for autistic children. Many fiscal conservatives thought it would never happen.

Once the families of autism came to the capital, emotion swept them and so did good public policy. A former state rep and SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE DENNY O’BRIEN also played a significant role pushing the autism insurance mandate over the finish line.

Perhaps of some of these young people who have found recovery should lobby the legislature and the governor, and then treatment could be mandated.

The key is it has to be a collaborative effort. It can’t be done by Michael Bloomberg or Tom Wolf. It has to be done by all the stakeholders in Harrisburg and across the state working together.

West Philly STATE REP. VANESSA LOWERY BROWN was given probation for accepting a bribe.

She’s not going to be able to hold her West Philadelphia (Cont. Next Page)

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coins won’t really make a dent one way or the other.

Like any other author, Obama has been going around the country on a book tour that’s been filling stadiums with women (and a few guys) who view her the way that folks view Oprah Winfrey, who just happens to be one of Michelle Obama’s buds.

Last Thursday, the tour landed at the Wells Fargo Center here in Philly. Phoebe Robinson, part of the duo 2 Dope Queens, did the interview honors, which mostly consisted of questions regarding Obama’s childhood, life in the White House, and whether or not she’ll ever run for office.

But the section of the interview I found most interesting was the part in which Obama talked about the impact that the white flight that took place in her Chicago neighborhood had not just on the neighborhood itself, but also on her.

When real-estate agents

WALKING the BEAT

values then would have to be determined from sales over, say, the last six years instead of the three most recent (Many banks prefer the last six months). With rising interest rates looming, and the real-estate market already in downturn, the City may have to reduce home values, causing a large REVENUE LOSS to schools and budgeted items of City Council and the Mayor.

Philly EAGLES players spent $50,000 to pay bail for nine worthy citizens.

After a lot of TALKING of helping the oppressed, how much bail money have the 76ers’ CEO and MEEK MILL put up in this holiday period? Remember: Cash bail PUNISHES POVERTY. More news blather of selling City-Owned properties without bidding. I say sell off as many City properties as you can – ANY WAY you can – to create TAX RATABLES. Councilman Kenyatta JOHNSON is unfairly

D E C E M B E R 6, 2018

L

ast weekend, many politicians from Philadelphia headed to New York for the 120th Pennsylvania Society weekend. The Pennsylvania Society is a nonpartisan, nonprofit charitable organization with over 2,000 members around and outside of the commonwealth.

In 1899, an historian and native Pennsylvanian named JAMES BARR FERREE, who was living in New York City, invited 55 fellow Pennsylvanians living in New York to join him for dinner at The

by PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP as ambassador to Malta. One needed an invitation to this party. Most of the attendees were Pennsylvania Republican officeholders and activists. As usual, this year’s party was packed.

Many of the Club Macanudo guests left this party and wandered to the Pennsylvania House Leadership’s reception at Connolly’s Bar & Restaurant. This event does have an invitation list, but I have always gone and been warmly welcomed.

The next Republican event was the Commonwealth Club’s annual Pennsylvania Society Luncheon. While anyone is welcome to pay, the price tag of $1,000 per person usually chases away any potential freeloaders and protesters (there is a discount on the ticket for Commonwealth Club members). However, two years ago when presidential candidate Donald Trump spoke, a number of people (Cont. Next Page)

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Waldorf Astoria Hotel, where it had been held every year until two years ago, when it had to move to the Midtown Hilton while the Waldorf is being renovated.

Initially, the members of the Pennsylvania Society were primarily Pennsylvania businessmen who worked in New York. Now it has a decidedly political flavor. Also, the event was initially just the dinner. Now it includes a series of private events commencing on Thursday night and continuing through through Sunday morning. I am going to keep my comments limited to the Republican-oriented (or -accepting) receptions.

The first event was Pennsylvania National Republican Committeewoman CHRISTINE TORETTI’S party at Club Macanudo. I was surprised she had it this year.

She was rumored to be severing most of her political connections in advance of confirmation of her appointment

Y

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the WAFFLE MAN

O! HERE WE go again with these instructions on how to drive in New Jersey. They were sent to me

by Jerry M. a reader from New Jersey.

1. Turn signals will give away your next move.

A confident New Jersey driver avoids using them.

2. Under no circumstance

Court of Common Pleas Phila. County Civil Action – Law No. 160804284 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Samuel Lewis, Deceased, Tyrone Ferguson, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Samuel Lewis, Deceased, Reginald Lewis, Solely in His Capacity as Heir of Samuel Lewis, Deceased & Sandra Scott Lewis, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Samuel Lewis, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendants To: The Unknown Heirs of Samuel Lewis, Deceased, Mortgagor and Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 1710 Waterloo Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122. 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, Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, 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. 160804284, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 1710 Waterloo Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122, 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., Lawyer Referral & Info. Service, One Reading Center, Phila., PA 19107, 215.238.1701. 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.

should you maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, because the space will be filled in by somebody else, putting you in an even more dangerous situation. 3. The faster you drive through a red light, the less chance you have of getting hit.

4. Warning! Never come to a complete stop at a stop sign. No one expects it, and it may result in your being rear-ended. 5.

Never get in the way of an older car that needs extensive bodywork, especially with Pa., N.Y. or Del. plates. With no insurance, the other operator probably has nothing to lose.

6. Braking is to be done as hard and late as possible to ensure that your ABS kicks in, giving a vigorous foot massage as the brake pedal violently pulsates. For those of you without ABS, it’s a chance to strengthen your leg muscles. 7. Never pass on the left when you can pass on the right. It’s a good way to prepare other drivers entering the highway. 8. Speed limits are arbitrary figures, given only as a suggestion and not enforceable in New Jersey during rush hour.

9. Just because you’re in the left lane and have no room to speed up or move over doesn’t mean that a New York driver flashing his high beams behind you doesn’t think he can go faster in your spot.

10. Always brake and rubberneck when you see an accident or even someone changing a tire.

This is seen as a sign of respect for the victim. 11. Learn to swerve abruptly without signaling. New Jersey is the home of high-speed slalom-driving, thanks to the Department of Public Works, which puts potholes in key locations to test drivers’ reflexes and

keep them alert. 12. It is tradition in New Jersey to honk your horn at cars in front of you that do not move three milliseconds after the light turns green. 13. To avoid injury in the event of a collision or rollover, it is important to exit your vehicle through the windshield right away. Wearing your seat belt will only impede your high-velocity escape from danger. 14.

Remember that the goal of every New Jersey driver is to get ahead of the pack by whatever means necessary. 15. In New Jersey, “flipping the bird” is considered a polite salute. This gesture should always be returned.

No matter what Jersey drivers, do I don’t think that it is OK to drive this way – don’t do it.

WALKING the BEAT (Cont. From Prev. Page) for TRUMP, who was remembered by WOMEN in the midterms. Trump repeatedly attacking a Speaker Pelosi will soon draw fire from the new congresswomen.... Meanwhile, House Speaker Paul RYAN is reflecting on his era as it comes to an end.

JUST LEAVE... The recent election win of GOP Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith in DEEP RED Mississippi was only a

CITY HALL SAM

(Cont. From Prev. Page) state rep seat because the Constitution prohibits a felony conviction. There will likely be a special election at some point. But Brown by all accounts was a good state rep who worked hard and tried her best to help a very poor and challenged area. One wonders if a sting operation from the Attorney General’s Office was a good expenditure of taxpayer dollars. Good people make bad mistakes and of-

ELEPHANT CORNER

(Cont. From Page 11) paid the full price to be able to protest in the room (in addition to the huge protest outside the venue).

The Commonwealth Club’s keynote speaker was LARA TRUMP, the president’s daughter-in-law. Following her speech, U.S. SEN. PAT TOOMEY (R-Pa.) addressed the crowd. The venue for this year’s event was the Ziegfeld Ballroom.

Until 2017, the event was traditionally held at the ballroom in the Plaza. That venue is also under renovation.

Many of the Commonwealth Club attendees cabbed it to a reception for Pennsylvania SENATE MAJORITY LEADER JAKE CORMAN (R-Centre) at the 40/40 Club, which is

owned by the rapper JAY-Z. STATE REP. STAN SAYLOR (R-York) had an event at the Kimberly Hotel at the same time. Also at that time, slot-lobbying and campaign-management firm ColdSpark had a reception at Niall’s Irish Pub. ColdSpark is run by MARK HARRIS and MIKE DEVANEY. Harris ran Toomey’s first campaign for U.S. Senate and was involved in the senator’s run in 2016.

Later that afternoon the government affairs group of the Arent Fox law firm held a reception at their New York City office, which has a spectacular view of the city and the Hudson River. The host was former CONGRESSMAN PHIL ENGLISH (R-Erie). The reception honored the Pennsylvania congressional (Cont. to Page 15)

SQUEAKER and could be a preview of things to come.

WEIRD that an editorial calls on the Philly Parking Authority to help reduce vehicle traffic (?). That is NOT their mission. Councilmen President Darrell CLARKE, Mark SQUILLA and Curtis JONES were doing just that for us by getting ideas from New York City.

Hail the New Jersey Attorney General’s directive limiting local police immigration action with ICE. The ICE workers are not bad folks; it is the orders they

get from the top.

JOURNALISTS can produce some epic works. A WONDERFUL story was that of special surgery on a pit bull performed by a regular Penn physician and a VSEC emergency room doctor. I vouch for Penn as a patient, and my Bear vouches for VSEC!...

A moving feature on FORGOTTEN LIVES followed the forgotten victims of crime, and hardships they quietly endure. Both articles are PULITZER level.

Give us more!

ten it’s through temptation.

But had the sting operation that was commissioned by former ATTORNEY GENERAL LINDA KELLY never happened, perhaps Brown would not have committed any bad act. Ironically, former ATTORNEY GENERAL KATHLEEN KANE, who was just ordered to prison, wanted to shut down the investigation because she didn’t think she’d be able to get convictions. Philadelphia DA SETH WILLIAMS took up the cases and all six targets were convicted. Afterwards, Williams was con-

victed of corruption and sent to prison.

Pennsylvania’s politics are so exquisite it’s hard to believe there are not any great political novels or a Netflix series about it.

Speaking of exquisite… former mayor and GOV. ED RENDELL was apparently making calls to city attorneys to take emergency action to keep Kane out of prison. The wonderful Rendell is always there for damsels in distress. No such actions were taken by Rendell with regard to Williams and his trip to prison.

(Cont. From Page 11) sheer presence of your existence frightens them away. They sell their homes and they move.

And that’s a part of our history and we sort of have to remember that as we go through these times and we’re pointing out people who belong or don’t belong.”

She went on to talk about how white flight led to resources being pulled out of neighborhoods, school districts and the communities themselves, leaving their children to feel like they were unworthy of investment because no one

MAYOR Jim Kenney posed with postal union leaders, who are currently under siege by proposed federal reorganization.

GRACING the holiday luncheon were City Commission Chair Lisa Deeley and Deputy City Controller Kellan White.

COUNCILWOMAN Helen Gym shared a moment with AFL-CIO Philadelphia Council President Pat Eiding.

T E A M M AT E S from Local 98 are Jack O’Neill and Council ma n Bobby Henon.

was investing in them.

As I listened to Obama, it all started to sound very familiar.

Mostly because Michelle Obama could have been talking about Philadelphia.

Pulled resources? Check.

Lack of investment?

Check.

Kids feeling like no one is interested in their futures?

Check, check and check!

It’s too bad that Madame Obama has already ruled out a run for office, because the fact that she has these insights could help kids in places like Philadelphia.

ESTATE OF MARIBEL RIVERA, DECEASED LETTERS on the above Estate have been granted to the undersigned, who request all persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the decedent to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedents to make payment without delay, to Administrator or Executor Or to Brian Martinez, Executor, c/o Alexander J. Ginsburg, Esq. Peter Bowers, PC, 441 N. 5th Street, Suite 100, Philadelphia, PA 19123

2 Governors

COMMITTEE of Seventy hosted a panel discussion featuring two illustrious out-of-state governors: Democrat John Hickenlooper of Colorado and Republican John Kasich of Ohio. Committee of Seventy CEO David Thornburgh, L, welcomed Kasich. Photos by Wendell Douglas

DECEMBER 6, 2018

IT WAS a convivial event filled with socializing and hobnobbing.

AMONG attendees at the affairs were, L-R, State Sen. Anthony Williams, Melissa Heller and Philadelphia Regional Port Authority Chairman Jerry Sweeney.

City of Philadelphia Public Hearing Notice The Special Committee on Criminal Justice Reform of the Council of the City of Philadelphia will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, December 10, 2018, at 3:00 PM, in Room 400, City Hall, to hear testimony on the following item: 160101

Resolution appointing members to the “Special Committee on Criminal Justice Reform,” who will conduct public hearings examining the Philadelphia criminal justice system for the impact of current policies, and offer recommended strategies for reform that are in the best interest of public safety and the public good.

Immediately following the public hearing, a meeting of the Special Committee on Criminal Justice Reform, open to the public, will be held to consider the action to be taken on the above listed item.

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

Michael Decker Chief Clerk

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EVERYDAY PEOPLE

PHILADELPHIA AFL-CIO held its annual holiday party at the Sheraton City Center Hotel on Tuesday.

Affable host Pat Eiding had warm greetings for everyone.

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

AFL-CIO Throws Holiday Affair Seventy Hosts

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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, December 19, 2018 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. David R. Albright Burglary, Criminal Conspiracy Sharon R. Anderson Prostitution (4 cts), Refuse to Move Obstruct Highway, Criminal Solicitation, Simple Assault, Harassment, Driving Under the Influence (2 cts), Promoting Prostitution Willie Black, Jr. Simple Assault, Possessing Instruments of Crime – Concealed Weapon Sabrina S. Blackman Possessing Instruments of Crime, Simple Assault Wayne Edney Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy Michael Lumpkin Simple Assault Christian RichardsPossession With Intent to Deliver a Lindsay Controlled Substance, Criminal Conspiracy Alexander G. Firearm Carried Without A License, Stamateris Carrying Firearms on Public Streets or Public Property in Philadelphia William T. Suggs Simple Assault, Criminal Conspiracy, Criminal Mischief Michael S. Upshur, Sr. Criminal Conspiracy, Indecent Assault Without Consent Richard Walls, Jr. Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy Wednesday, December 19, 2018 – Convening at 1:00 P.M. Crystal A. DAntonio Possession With Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance, Criminal Conspiracy – Possession With Intent to Deliver Controlled Substance, Theft By Deception Leslie Harmon Possessing Instruments of Crime, Involuntary Manslaughter, Voluntary Manslaughter Joanna N. Maggio Knowing or Intentional Possession of a Controlled Substance, Forgery – Alter Writing Friday, December 21, 2018 – Convening at 9:00 A.M. Freddrena Lowman Aggravated Assault, Burglary Timothy J. Wynn Contempt for Violation of Order, Terroristic Threats Friday, December 21, 2018 – Convening at 1:00 P.M. Michael A. Lyons Robbery, Criminal Conspiracy, Person Not to Possess Use Etc Firearms

MARK your CALENDAR

(Cont. From Page 6) Yu is hosted Fundraiser at Rittenhouse Political

Partners, 121 S. Broad St., 4th fl., 5:30-7 p.m. RSVP: Cole Dougherty (215) 251-0585 or cole@rittenhousepolitical.com.

Dec. 18- State Sen. Lar-

ry Farnese hosts Fundraiser at McCormick & Schmick’s, Wm. Penn Rm., 1 S.Broad St., 5:307 p.m. Contribution levels: $2,500, $1,000, $500,

$250. Payable to “Friends of Lawrence Farnese.”

RSVP: Cole Dougherty (215) 251-0585 or cole@rittenhousepolitical.com.

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE - Parcel#: 132170900 / 125N09-26 - WHEREAS, on October 29, 2009, a certain mortgage was executed by Lillian Presbery, as mortgagor in favor of Bank of America, N.A. as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County in Mortgage Document Number: 52141375 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 4539 North 18th Street Philadelphia, PA 19140, parcel number 132170900 / 125N09-26(“Property”); and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by Lillian Presbery by virtue of deed dated October 29, 2009 and recorded November 9, 2009 in Document Number: 52141374; and WHEREAS, Mortgagor/ Record Owner Lillian Presbery died on January 15, 2015 intestate and is survived by her heirs-at-law, Nadine Smith, Michael Bernard Presbery, and Sheila Presbery; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on April 11, 2014 in Document Number: 52770041, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (a)(i)), as Lillian Presbery died on January 15, 2015, and that upon the death the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of August 22, 2018 is $108,416.22 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on September 29, 2011 in Misc. Document #52395684, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that on December 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Phila. City Hall located at Broad Street & Market Street, Phila., PA 19107 all real property and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises will be sold at public action to the highest bidder: ALL THAT CERTAIN lot or piece of ground with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate on the East side of 18th Street at the distance of 306 feet Northward from the North side of Wingohocking Street in the 13th (formerly the 49th) Ward of the City of Philadelphia. CONTAINING in front or breadth on said 18th Street 16 feet and extending of that width in length or depth Eastward between parallel lines at right angles to said 18th Street 62 feet to the middle of a certain 4 feet wide alley. BEING 4539 N. 18th Street. TOGETHER with the free and common use, right, liberty and privilege of the said alley as and for a passageway and watercourse at all times hereafter, forever. Being Parcel #132170900 / 125N09-26. The sale will be held on December 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM at the Southeast Entrance of Philadelphia City Hall located at Broad Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $108,416.22 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale. The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $108,416.22 as of August 22, 2018, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. KML LAW GROUP, P.C., Foreclosure Commissioners, 215.825.6305.

BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: Is the trillion-dollar student-loan industry exempt from bankruptcy?

In 2010, the annual volume of new student loans reached $100 billion dollars.

There is now more than $1 trillion in student-loan debt on the books and this type of debt is growing rapidly.

A new economic crisis is about to emerge. Student-loan debt cannot be discharged in bankruptcy except under the most extreme of circumstances.

It is not only government-sponsored or -guaranteed student loans that are exempt from bankruptcy discharge. Bank loans made to students, and rel-

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ELEPHANT CORNER (Cont. From Page 12) delegation.

On Friday evening, Pennsylvania HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE TURZAI (R-Allegheny) held an event at the Hilton. His reception was packed. It is my understanding that both Turzai and Corman are considering running for governor in 2022.

For night owls, the government affairs group at Duane Morris (which includes former Montgomery County COMMISSIONER TOM ELLIS) had an invitation-only event at the 21 Club beginning at 10 p.m. The event was very well attended.

Saturday morning, the University of Pennsylvania had its annual breakfast at the Penn Cub on

ers. Student-loan collectors, when collecting a public loan, can garnish wages without court order, can intercept tax refunds, and default on a government-sponsored loan can prevent a debtor from getting a West 44th Street. While the attendees were primarily Philadelphia politicos, a few Republicans were sighted, including Speaker Turzai.

Roughly at the same time, the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association held its annual breakfast/luncheon at the Metropolitan Club. While the PMA is run by political conservatives, the speakers include both Pennsylvania senators, as well as numerous congressmen.

This event is possible to get into without an invitation.

At 2 p.m., the 1789 Society held an event at the Kimberly Hotel. The Society is primarily composed of African Americans from both parties. Philadelphia Republican activist MAURICE GOODMAN was involved in running the

home loan or contracting with the federal government.

To top off the benefits available for student-loan debt collection, there is no statute of limitation on collection of a government eduevent. Around the corner, the Bravo group held a reception at Maggie’s Pub. The Bravo Group is a communications and lobbying firm founded by longtime Republican CHRIS BRAVACOS.

PUBLIC NOTICE T-Mobile proposes to collocate antennas on the buildings at 135 S. 20th Street (tip heights (TH) 187’) (20182124) and 6583 Roosevelt Blvd (TH 27’ & 34’) (20180943), and on the building/water tank at 1440 E. Erie Ave (TH 109’) (20181806), Philadelphia, PA. Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-8091202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

cational loan, the debt can be 15 collected until the borrower dies. This is a cradle-to-grave disaster that needs immediate attention from congress.

Next Week’s Question: Don’t file bankruptcy?

PUBLIC NOTICE T-Mobile proposes to modify existing facilities on the 114.3’ building at 1101 N 63rd St (tip heights (TH) 124’, 134’, & 148’) (20182123), the 160’ building at 40 N Broad St (TH 139’ & 159’) (20182140), the 55’ building at 1308 W. Venango St (TH 71’) (20182094), and the 220’ smokestack at 4640 Roosevelt Blvd (TH 155’) (20182090), Philadelphia, PA. Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-8091202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

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constituents having problems with student-loan debt.

Not only do student loans enjoy protection from bankruptcy discharge, collectors of government-sponsored loans have extraordinary pow-

D E C E M B E R 6, 2018

understanding BANKRUPTCY

atives or friends who guarantee those loans, are facing discharge problems when the debt carries that “magic” designation as an “educational loan.”

Except in the case of “undue hardship,” a student loan is exempt from discharge in bankruptcy under §523(a)(8).

The standards most commonly referred to by bankruptcy courts for establishing that undue hardship is imposed on the debtor or a dependent of the debtor are spelled out in the case of Brunner v. New York State Higher Education Services Corp., 831 F.2d 395 (2d Cir. 1987). For more on the Brunner Test, see my earlier article on the subject.

The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys has been promoting legislation to help consumers deal with the awful difficulties caused by increasing levels of student-loan debt.

Congress is taking notice of this problem as their constituent-services staff are besieged with pleas for help. In a visit to my congressman’s Washington, D.C. office recently, I was told that a high percentage of constituent calls are now coming from

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