Senator Tony Helps Santa
Bike Riding With President Clarke
STATE SEN. Anthony Williams welcomed Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus to huge party for kids at KIPP Charter School in Cobbs Creek.
At St. Thomas’ Church
Operating Engineers Bring In The Food For Christmas’ Poor
ONE YOUNGSTER enjoying his electric scooter at annual Christmas Party at St. Thomas 1st African Church in Overbrook hosted by Angel Tree of Life brought Christmas joy to children of incarcerated parents with presents they had requested during year. Photo by Leona Dixon
Hibernian Hunger Project
OPERATING Engineers Local 542 members, led by Brian Jones and Dan Sullivan, seen in front row right, contributed equipment and time to helping annual Toyota Tundra Food Drive for Philabundance Food Bank to insure fruit and vegetables and other foods would be available for needy families this Christmas season. More Pics Page 23
Philadelphia Parking Authority Employees Delivered Food, Toys For Santa PHILA. Parking Authority employees and Santa Claus stuffed nine vans in their annual Santa Caravan with food and toys which they delivered this week to needy families around City.
HIBERNIAN Hunger Project delivered 200 holiday food cartons, up from 167 last year, to needy families. Port executive and Ancient Order of Hibernians City President Joe Fox was on hand with Dir. Bob Gessler and Father Edward Brady at Shamrock Warehouse. Volunteers fanned out across the region delivering a happy holiday in this commendable effort. Photo by Joe Stivala
C2HM Firm Gifts Bicycles
ENGINEERING firm C2HM gifted bicycles to children at W. Oak Lane Charter School under aegis of Council Members Marian Tasco and Cindy Bass, with Council Members-Elect Derek Green and Cherelle Parker. Photo by Wendell Douglas
DELIGHTED Brandi Bey was one of dozens of children at Lenfest Center aft e r s c h o o l program to receive new bicycle for holidays, presented to her by Council President Darrell Clarke.
Real Meaning Of Christmas
CHILDREN from St. Francis Xavier Choir enthralled visitors at dedication of annual Christmas Crèche at Christmas Village on corner of 16th & JFK Boulevard. They brought real meaning of Christmas to all. Another Pic Page 20.
Kenyatta Spreads Christmas Cheers JOY in her face, Tameerah Upshaw receives new bike for Christmas from Councilman Kenyatta Johnson at Eastwick Playground.
XÇ}Éç|Çz fÑ|Ü|à Éy Z|ä|Çz Sogging Rain, Soaking Rain Didn’t Daunt Carpenters G U E S T what’s at other end of rope being pulled by Metropolitan Union of Carpenters who were volunteering their time in heavy rain? Answer Page 23
Sheriff Helps Santa At Prince Hall Lodge
‘Laboring’ To Make Kids Smile
LABORERS’ UNION Local 332 staged annual holiday for children who are staying in shelters for protection from abuse. For safety reasons, children’s faces cannot be shown. But Business Mgr. Sam Staten, Jr. is proud to display warm caps and gloves for them. More Pics Page 23
Doing What Comes Naturally To Pacifico KERRY PACIFICO, left, as he has done for past 15 years, has Santa Claus help him distribute Christmas gifts to over underprivileged youngsters yearly. Looking on are Emelia Talarico, his daughter Maria, and Santa’s elf G e o r g i n a Wigand. Santa is David Waz. More pics Page 11
SHERIFF J e w e l l Williams, in sweater, is sur rounded by elves who served food and helped Santa Claus deliver toys to needy youngster s at annual Prince Hall Grand Lodge headquarters. More pics P. 20
Jannie Hosts 3,000 Again
EVERY YEAR Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell hosts for dinner and gift-giving 3,000 men, women, children who call city shelters home. More pics Page 18.
Marines Get Hefty Local 57 Check
LABORERS’ Local 57 members contributed sizeable check to Marine Corps’ annual Christmas Toys for Tots campaign. Seen here with Marine are, from left, Recording Secretary Estebán Vera, Secretary Mike Carfagno, Business Mgr. Walt Higgins and President Stanley Sanders made donation to Marines Toys for Tots Drive.
Page 2 The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 24, 2015
South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897 To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108
P. O. Box 31425• Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax) Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick
Board Members
Vice-President: Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella
John Savarese Mark Rago
Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti
Stock Up For Holiday Feasts At Esposito’s Meats by Maria Merlino When entering the Esposito’s Meats store on 1001 S. 9th Street, the bright, cool, clean atmosphere is the first thing you notice. Beautiful cuts of meats are displayed on a background of brown butcher paper in spotless refrigerator units. White-coated butchers are happy to serve you your carnivorous needs. Eyeing an exhibit of lamb chops, Richard Haitch has been a long-time customer of Esposito’s. “I don’t live in the neighborhood, but I come down here twice a week to buy meat. I’m very satisfied with the
CUSTOMER Richard Haitch picks lamb chops he’ll be enjoying soon. Photos by Maria Merlino
quality. You get more meat for the money,” he said. In its third generation, the Esposito’s operation has grown from the storefront butcher shop of Attilio Esposito in 1911 to be proudly regarded as a Philly institution. Their USDA inspected facility has had an external audit rating of 95% or higher over the last five years. The GMP and HACCP procedures ensure
their strict standards remain intact. GMP or Good Manufacturing Practice is a system to ensure that products meet food-safety, quality and legal requirements. HACCP or Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Point is a systematic program to assure food safety. For more information go to www.espositosmeats.com.
Hope For Vacant Bldg On Christian Street? VACANT building on 820 Christian Street.
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Story, photo by Naked Philly
When US Construction built 19 new homes on the 800 block of Christian Street a few years back, we took the opportunity to point out 820 Christian Street, wondering whether the project next door would spur the owners of the vacant property to do something with it. For whatever reason, when there was a big parking lot next door, the vacancy didn’t bother us as much. Ever since the homes were built, though, we’ve shaken our fists every time we passed by. A couple weeks back, we passed by the property and noticed a sign in one of the windows, indicating it's available. And we made a mental note to come back, take a picture and call the number to get the lowdown. We visited the property yesterday, seeking the sign, and discovered it’s gone. Perhaps this means the owners have decided against selling it. Or else they found a buyer (or a tenant) quickly. The property is really interesting, stretching all the way to Montrose Street. The building rises three stories on Christian Street but it’s only one story on Montrose, where it's used as a garage. Surely the building was constructed for some other purpose but we couldn’t tell you anything about its history. Can you? Email cassie@phillyrecord.com with any info or story ideas.
The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($20 per year Optional Subscription) The Philadelphia Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila., PA 19147 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila. PA 19147 215-755-2000 Fax: 215-689-4099 Editor@phillyrecord.com EDITORIAL STAFF Editor & Publisher: James Tayoun, Sr. Managing Editor: Anthony West Assistant Editor: Cassie Hepler Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Out & About Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires CitiLife Editor: Ruth R. Russell Veteran Affairs Dan Sickman: Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Photographers: Leona Dixon Wendell Douglas Harry Leech Bill Myers Bookkeeping: Haifa Hanna Webmaster: Sana Muaddi-Dows Advert. Director: John David Controller: John David Account Exec: Bill Myers Circulation: Steve Marsico Yousef Maaddi The Public Record welcomes news and photographs about your accomplishments and achievements which should be shared with the rest of the community. Contact us by phone, fax, e-mail or by dropping us a note in the mail. If you mail a news item, please include your name, address and daytime telephone number so we can verify the information you provided us, if necessary. The Public Record reserves the right to edit all news items and letters for grammar, clarity and brevity. ©1999-2015 by the Philadelphia Public Record. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. The Philadelphia Public Record will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public.
Panepinto Jewelers
Ron Panepinto Karen Panepinto-Minarcik 702 Sansom St. • Phila., PA 19106 Tel: 215-923-1980 email: info@panepintojewelers.com www.PanepintoJewelers.com
Vol.Vol. VIIVIII No.No. 3 (Issue 52 (Issue 328)429)
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILA., PA 19114
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’Tis The Reason For The Season
January December 16,24, 2014 2015
Spruce Up Your ’Hood, Get $$$ The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, with funding support from the Philadelphia Dept. of Commerce, will award Neighborhood Placemaker Grants ranging from $15 to $25K to Philly-based organizations with exciting ideas to beautify their neighborhoods. Applicants need to share their ideas by Feb. 12. An information session
will be held on Jan. 6 at 5 p.m. at PHS headquarters, 100 N. 20th Street. Attendance is not required for submitting a Letter of Interest. LOI’s will be accepted online starting Dec. 22. PHS is asking how can you make your neighborhood uniquely beautiful through horticulture? For more info, please email neighborhood@pennhort.org.
Kenyatta Gives Back
COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson and his staff deals with cold weather to help families in need at this very special time of year for family and loved ones on Point Breeze Avenue. Throughout this holiday season, there were so many turkey giveaways. This one was located on 1600 block of Point Breeze Avenue. Photo by Leona Dixon
DEACON JIM STEWART, Cookie Rita and philanthropist Mikki Capo of Capo Coins on E. Passyunk Avenue held the lighting ceremony at the St. Joseph’s Courtyard on the 21st Street side of St. Edmond Church at 21st & Snyder Avenue. What you see here and more was all donated by Mikki. She is a huge supporter of 100-yearold church. “There is too much history in at St. Edmond’s for me not to get involved. Christmas is the most joyful time of the year. I hope everyone can get to see the lights and maybe take in Mass,” Photo by Maria Merlino she said.
Wills & Estate Probate • Home & Business Property • Damage Claims • Personal Injury • Family & Criminal Matters
www. MirarchiLegal.Com Emergency Call-Back Consultations Available Around the Clock Seven Days Per Week
215-545-5090
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
The Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 19
Page 5
Wishing You A Joyous Holiday Season And A Prosperous And Healthy New Year! From The Officers And Members Of
Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association Local Union No. 19 1301 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia PA 19147
215.952.1999
President/Business Manager: Gary J. Masino Assistant Business Manager: Bryan J. Bush Financial Secretary/Treasurer: Thomas J. Klingenberg Recording Secretary: Joseph S. Frick
Vice President: James Harding, Jr.
Organizers: Bryon A. Blum • Thomas Bush • William C. Dorward • Michael J. Ford • Luke Gordon • Howard VanBuren, III Executive board: Brian Cummiskey • Todd Farally • Jade Fladger • Robert Gadsby • Jeremy +unsicker, III • Erik Koszalinski • James Keenan, III Keith Meyer • William J. Pfeiffer • Peter Pollitt • James Sexton, Jr. • Michael Sullivan • Joshua Turner Trustees Robert Klingenberg, Jr. • Dennis Siravo • Gerald Zimmerman, Jr. Dispatcher: Joseph D. Rispo • Conductor: Jeffrey P. Block • Warden: John Silcox, III
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Business Agents: Fred N. Braker • Charles J. Burkert • Gary J. &ooper • Louis J. Coppolino, Sr. • Patrick F. Doyle Walter )ULHGULFK • Gerard E. Gontz • Michael Guinan • Anthony Iannucci, III • Kenneth Woods
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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OUR OPINION
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Merry Christmas To All And Thanks To Those Who Make It So! Our front page wraparound tried to give credit where it is due to individuals and organizations who every year do their best to bring joy to underprivileged families, particularly at major family holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. With the many efforts captured in our pages to bring needed food, clothing, and toys to families who are truly doing without these necessities, there are more we have not been able to cover and bring to you. In short, almost every union local in this city makes such efforts, especially the major ones such as the Carpenters, Laborers, Engineers, Electricians and other members of the Building Trades. In addition, we see almost every elected official leading such efforts in their districts as well as elsewhere in the city. Many of them we miss due to the conflicting times they conduct these warm-hearted interventions to bring joy and comfort to needed families. We thank them all!
Why Our Dailies Are Failing
Dec. 28- Kwanzaa Program at Audenreid HS, 31st & Tasker Sts., 6 p.m. Adults $10, children $5. For info (215) 3850214. Dec. 29- New Year’s Celebration at home of Henry Nicholas, Local 1199C, 15th & Jefferson Sts., starting 3 p.m. Dec. 29- Sean Stevens for State Rep campaign hosts Fundraiser at Black Sheep Pub, 247 S. 17th St., 5-7 p.m. For more info (215) 9397190. Dec. 29- State Rep candidate
Marisa Piccarreto hosts Fundraiser at Cathoula’s, 775 S. Front St., 6 p.m. Dec. 29- Republicans host Happy Hour at United Republican Cl., 3156 Frankford Ave., 6-9 p.m. $2 drinks; free food, desserts, parking. 50/50, raffle, ugly-sweater contest. Come in your ugly sweaters! Jan. 4- Inaugural Ceremonies for new Administration, City Council and Jurists. Jan. 7- Derek Green hosts Inaugural Celebration at 1925 Lounge, 111 S. 17th St., 6-8 p.m. Tickets $250. RSVP Kelly Bauer (610) 297-3754 or kbauer@advantagepep.com. Jan. 9- Six Italian Societies sponsor Evening with cocktails, dinner and live music for
Editorial Warning!! Letters from an unidentified informant without any contact information cannot be considered for publication, no matter how valid their contents.
State Sen. John Sabatina, Jr. at Townsend Rm., 12273 Townsend Rd. 7-11 p.m. Tickets $75. Jan 9- State Rep. Vanessa Brown hosts Youth Trip to State Farm Show, leaves from 1435 W. 52nd St. 8 a.m., leaves Harrisburg 2 p.m. Tickets $10, Contact her office (215) 879-6615. Jan. 14- Cocktails Celebration Reception & Buffet benefits State Rep. John Taylor at La Veranda, 30 N. Columbus Blvd., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sponsorship levels $1,000$25,000, tickets $250. Checks payable to “Committee to ReElect John Taylor”, J. Tsucalas, 1600 Walnut St., #305, Phila., PA 19103. For info (215) 668-7211 or
jct.uta@att.net. Jan. 18- Martin Luther King Day of Service Feb. 3- Four Chaplains hosts Awards Dinner at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Rd., Cocktails 5:30 p.m., Dinner 6 p.m. Honoring Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams and Thomas Manion. For info www.fourchaplains.org. Feb. 28- Fundraiser for 2016 St. Patrick’s Parade hosted by Mary Frances Fogg at FOP Heroes Ha., 11630 Caroline Rd. Apr. 23- State Rep. Mark Cohen hosts Autism Expo at St. William Parish, 6238 Rising Sun Ave., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Lunch provided. RSVP Deb Whittingham (215) 342-2167.
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Their editors and publishers just don’t get it! This week, another Daily News editorial urging voters to do away with the City’s two key row offices makes it more obvious than ever they do not understand the working of City government. They urge the courts take over the duties of the City Commissioners and the Sheriff. Are they on this planet or in a Disneyland of their imagination? Trust the courts? That institution is almost impossible to audit, to investigate, to rate, to hold accountable in its ability to efficiently handle any responsibility, save conducting trials and hearings. The court has made a sham of Traffic Court hearings. Get a moving violation, don’t bother going to appeal your case. You’ll be found guilty most times. What the two dailies do not understand is the scope of the responsibility of both row offices. There are dedicated civil-service employees who thoroughly know their duties. In one are trained deputies who know their efforts are all that enable the courts safely to conduct their hearings. The Sheriff’s office, under Jewell Williams, now runs like clockwork. Everything is transparent, access is easy, and citizens can access any and all information they need or want to know. Why no notice from the dailies about this 180 degree turnaround? We defy anyone in the courts with sound judgement to tell us they are willing to ensure voters get to do their duty without snafus. Why have the dailies failed to note the lack of complaints filed on Election Day, other than individuals filing complaints against other individuals – but never about their votes failing to be recorded? We’ve had an epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases and mismanagement in various branches of this government. Where is the coverage? Instead we get daily puff and commercial promotions from both dailies. There once was a time this was not done, and their investigations deserved plaudits. But now no longer. It is easy for us to understand why they may still have some readership, but even that audience dismisses their content.
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KATHLEEN KANE has been sued again. I almost feel sorry for her – almost. On Monday she was sued in federal court by two current Attorney General investigators, MICHAEL CARLSON and MICHAEL CRANGA. Last week, Kane and her CHIEF OF STAFF JONATHAN DUECKER were sued by former AG Office’s head of human resources GEORGE MOORE. Moore claims Kane fired him in retaliation for his recommended that Duecker be terminated for making unwanted sexual advances on female employees. Both Carlson and Cranga claim they were passed over for promotions in retaliation for refusing to testifying per her instructions before a grand jury in the now-infamous sting operation that caught six Philadelphia elected officials on tape taking illegal contributions. Kane claimed she deep-sixed the investigations because she claimed it was racially motivated, and wanted Carlson and Cranga to support that allegation. They did not. Previously AG investigator CLAUDE THOMAS sued Kane for defamation owing to her accusations about the racial targeting in the sting. Thomas, who is African American, claims Kane’s inaccurate depiction of his involvement in cases has damaged him professionally and personally. Four of the officials taking the illegal donations pled guilty. Last week, former STATE REP. LOUISE BISHOP pled no contest. Initially Bishop planned to fight the charges, asserting Kane’s claim that she was racially profiled. Shortly after Bishop pled, her attorney, CHARLES PERUTO, JR., apologized for wasting the Court’s time and acknowledged the investigation was not racially motivated. Carlson and Cranga’s case also asserts “Kane and Duecker sought to hurt their reputations by implicating them in a sensationalized email scandal, while shielding others, including Ms. Kane’s sister, from the reputational harm that resulted.” Kane has been justly criticized for her piecemeal public release of the exchanges of pornographic materials between AG staff, jurists and other attorneys. On Dec. 1, she announced she has appointed a special prosecutor, former Maryland AG DOUGLAS GANSLER, to look into the pornography and other inappropriate email ex(Cont. Page 17)
I’ve tried to stay away from addressing the fact the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has gone without a budget for roughly 48% of 2015. Why? Because it’s (a) too depressing and (b) too easy to be snarky about. You have all of these really intelligent (!), really well paid people who can’t come up with a plan to pay for what the Commonwealth needs to pay for?! Really?! Apparently, the Republicans that control the House and Senate in Harrisburg have decided they’re going to treat new Governor Tom Wolf the same way they treated Gov. Tom Corbett when it comes to the budget. Maybe they just don’t dig guys named Tom. My understanding is the problem lies in how to replace the much-needed education funding that’s been cut out of the Commonwealth’s budget. Wolf thinks that money should come in the form of taxes paid by Marcellus Shale drillers. He campaigned on it even. And when you consider that Pennsylvania is the only state where drillers get to drill tax-free (tossing a few bucks in impact fees to municipalities doesn’t count), getting more money from folks whose livelihood could cause your water to catch fire makes sense to me. The Republicans in the House and Senate see it differently. They want to privatize the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, an obsession I’ve never quite understood. They want to “reform” pensions. Now I put “reform” in quotes because pension reform never seems to include, well, legislators. But it does include teachers. Go figure. They were also talking about raising the sales tax and the income tax. And Wolf was willing to go along with some of this stuff, which would have made him really popular with the folks who hoped Pennsylvanians would finally get their fair share from Marcellus Shale. But while the Senate and Wolf have managed to get on the same page, the House is doing its best imitation of the Federal House of Representatives. (I wonder who’s John Boehner in this scenario….) (Cont. Page 25)
Yo! By popular request, here we go again with this explanation of the Feast of Seven Fish. I do not claim to know the “official” explanation (if there is one) to the feast. This is what we remember about it. Grandpop Achille would say, “That was the way it has always been done and that was the way it was going to be done on that day ... period!” It is late afternoon on Christmas Eve; the thousand and one things that have to be done for Christmas are completed. Do you still feel like there is something missing in this joyous season? I always do. It seems the religious aspects of Christmas are being lost to crass commercialism. Like it or not, Christmas is a religious holiday. Through the years it has become a buying frenzy, with a never-ending list of items to get and things to do. Christmas traditions have been colored green as in $$$, and the real spirit of this day is being lost. The Italians and Italian American families realize it. We Italians are doing Christmas the Med-i-can way according to our means, but we have one tradition that nourishes the religious spirit as well as the body. It is called the Christmas Eve Fish Feast or the Feast of Seven Fish. This annual event is not as strictly structured as the Jewish Seder, nor does it have any rules of religious conduct or sanctions. It is simply a wonderful tradition that gives a little meaning to Christmas and Christianity. On Christmas Eve evening, we eagerly awaited the final preparation of the seven-fish feast. It took a lot of cooking by the ladies to get everything to the table at the same time. Everyone pitched in and helped, as we were anxious to enjoy this feast. As the name implies, there were seven courses of fish served. The type of fish and the manner of preparation varied, but I will try to explain the significance of course. The first course was any type of shellfish. Only the poor ate them in the days of Christ. Christians in those times were the poor. Baccalà is codfish and is the next course. Baccalà is filleted and salt-cured to preserve it, (Cont. Page 25)
Former STATE SEN. BOB ROVNER’S holiday party was a smashing success and drew a number of notable political figures. Former DISTRICT ATTORNEY LYNNE ABRAHAM dined with STATE SEN. ANTHONY WILLIAMS and his lovely wife SHARI. Former COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO and his lovely wife chatted with STATE SENS. LARRY FARNESE and JOHN SABATINA. LT. GOV. MIKE STACK was also on hand to help the Rovners ring in the holiday season. Financial advisor WALT SCHWENK and his striking wife MARYANN enjoyed spending time with philanthropist COOKIE ANASTASIA and JUDGE FELICE STACK and her friend LOU FRANGIPANI. JUDGE GENE MAIER hung with his pals JUDGE SANDY MOSS and her husband BILL DEAN. Lt. Gov. Stack hosted a party for his own 58th Ward. Among the VIPs was Republican COUNCILMAN-ELECT AL TAUBENBERGER. Even though Taubenberger is a longtime Republican politico, he and Stack have worked together on Northeast Philadelphia business issues for many years. Also on hand was City Controller the great JONATHAN SAIDEL, powerful Northeast 66B WARD LEADER MIKE McALEER, and 66B WARD CHAIRMAN JOHN DelRICCI and his beautiful wife SARAH, a former State Rep candidate. State Sen. Sabatina was also on hand and was appreciated by the throngs of party-goers for his down-to-earth persona and holiday cheer. 58TH WARD CHAIR MIKE KATES was seen hanging out with none other than Santa Claus. Also on hand were well-known political operative and 58TH WARD COMMITTEEMAN TOM NARDI and former Stack Senate CHIEF OF STAFF CYNTHIA MARELIA. What a fiasco the entire Porngate saga is. Now Supreme Court JUSTICE J. MICHAEL EAKIN is pleading to hold onto his position. He was in tears before the disciplinary board of the Supreme Court this week. And Philadelphia DISTRICT ATTORNEY SETH WILLIAMS continues to be under pressure to suspend several of his deputies who have been (Cont. Page 27)
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
SANTA CLAUS gets his gift request from this youngster, one of over 100 who annually are gifted through courtesy of Pacifico Ford, whose ownership also presents well over $25,000 yearly in scholarships to high-school students.
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Doing What Comes Naturally To Pacifico
MARIE PACIFICO is all smiles as she escorts another family to Santa Claus at annual Christmas Party for needy and deserving youngsters.
Representative
Maria P.Donatucci
Wishing All
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173rd Legislative District 3294 Red Lion Rd. • Philadelphia PA 19114 Phone: 215-281-3414 • Fax: 215-281-3418
Merry Christmas And Happy New Year
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Rep. Mike Driscoll
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SHERIFF Jewell Williams welcomes Barbara Grant and Donald Townes to Office’s annual Christmas, celebrated this year at Galdo’s.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
ENJOYING Christmas were members of Sheriff Jewell Williams’ Office who gathered at Galdo’s last Saturday evening. Seen here with Sheriff Williams are members of his office Joe Blake and Sharif Street. With them is April Street.
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Sheriff’s Staff Celebrates Christmas
GATHERING around their Sheriff to wish WISHING Sheriff Jewell Williams the best Jewell Williams Merry Christmas and Happy for Christmas are members of his staff and New Year were some of his staffers. their wives. Photo by Halston Kemp
Ron Donatucci Hosts Annual Christmas Party For Staff
Photo by Joe Stivala
SHARING Christmas joy are Rita Donatucci; Judge Matthew Carrafiello; Albert Frattali, Ironworkers District Council; Donatucci; Ward Leader Ann Brown; Tom Donatucci; Jim Photo by Joe Stivala Jenkins; and Albert Brown. ATTORNEY Michael Mattioni and Ward Leaders George Brooks, 47th, and Gary Williams, 32nd, join festivities with Hon. Ron Donatucci. Photo by Joe Stivala
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MARRIAGE License Unit of Register of Wills Office includes this lovely crew, always happy to serve those tying knots. They include Tiffany Nazuro; Lindsey Keenan; Donatucci; director Guy Sabella; and Dawn McKeown.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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Want To Be Democratic Convention Delegate? by Joe Shaheeli Interested in becoming a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this July? If so, State Party Chairman Marcel L. Groen has made it a possibility. Potential delegates need be registered Democrats, pledge their support to a specific candidate, and complete a form. For information, contact Corey Pellington at delegate2016@padems.com or write for a form to her at Democratic State Committee, 229 State Road, Harrisburg, PA 17101. In the meantime, the Democratic National Convention Committee is making its presence felt locally in a number of ways, this past week kick-
DCC Shares Christmas Lunch CONGRESSMAN and Party Chairman Bob Brady, right, hosted his DCC Staff for Christmas luncheon at Spring Garden headquarters, thanking them and forwarding his best wishes to Democratic Ward Leaders, committee people and elected officials. ing off its “Community Service Campaign Giving Back to Philadelphia”. For its first service project, the DNCC partnered with the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee at the Wissahickon
Boys & Girls Club to clean up and help prepare for the Club’s “Winter Wonderland Shop.” This historic Wissahickon Philadelphia Boys & Girls Club was founded by Germantown Quakers in the late 1800s, and was the first
Boys & Girls Club member to serve African American youth, providing educational and vocational programs. “What better way to break away from the hustle and bustle of planning for the Convention than to honor the spirit of the holiday season and working with this wonderful group of young people,” said Rev. Leah D. State Rep
Joanna E. McClinton 191st Leg. Dist.
State Senator
Larry Farnese First Senate District Tel. 215-952-3121 1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145
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www.SenatorFarnese.com
Always Hard At Work for You!
Representative
Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District
1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131
(215) 879-6615
State Senator
Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 • Fax: (215) 492-2990
State Senator
JOHN P. SABATINA JR. Fifth Senate District 12361 Academy Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19154
215-281-2539 www.SenatorSabatina.com
6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139
T: (215) 748-6712 F: (215) 748-1687
Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “This service project is just one way to make good on our promise to support and give back to the Philadelphia community. We look forward to engaging with more Philadelphians across the city over the next few months through various community service projects.” “This Convention is not only about spotlighting Philadelphia, but it is also about giving back to our local communities and enabling the event to have a positive impact on residents here,” said Kevin Washo, executive director of the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee. “We are grateful to the Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club for inviting us into their space and look forward to working with similar organizations across the city in the months ahead.” Not only was the Wis-
Rep. Rosita
Youngblood 198th District 310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148
P: 215-849-6426
sahickon Boys & Girls Club the first such African American club, it remained the only one into the early part of the 20th century. Of the 53 founding clubs from New England to California that came together in 1906 to form the Boys Club Federation, Wissahickon was the only one from a Black community. The historybreaking nature of the club did not stop there. The club broke through the gender line and became the Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club in 1981. Details on subsequent service projects will be announced in the coming months.
Scott Sworn In As Montco Youngest District Judge Gregory L. Scott, at 28, has become Montgomery County’s first African American District Judge and its youngest. (Cont. Page 15) Councilman
Mark
Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332
215-686-3458/59
Given the furor over Democrat Attorney General Kathleen Kane’s tenure, Democrats calling for the Governor to have her step down, and Republicans realizing they could have an easy chance to take that seat in the 2016 election, GOP candidates were coming out of the woodwork. But that seems to be changing. State Rep. Todd Stephens (R-Montgomery), who was among the early entries, has dropped out of the race. The decision seemed to be motivated by the show of support for State Sen. John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) when Southeast Caucus Chairman Michael Meehan released the
New Wynnefield Senior Residences
COUNCILMAN Curtis Jones, Jr. led groundbreaking ceremony for Wynne Senior Residences, 51-unit apartment building for seniors on site of former Wynne Theater. City is investing over $3.4 million and project is receiving over $12.5 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity. From left are Jerry Murphy of WORC, Holly Glauser of Penna. Housing Financing Agency, Jones, Roger Jackson of Congressman Fattah’s Office, State Sen. Vincent Hughes, Debbie McColloch of OHCD, Morgan Cephas of Councilman Jones’ Office, Kimmel Cameron of Hudson Housing Capital and Naz Sabree of Commerce Dept.
PROUDLY MANAGING PENNSYLVANIA’S INTERNATIONAL SEAPORT
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Republicans Smell Pa. Atty. Gen. Seat
results of straw polls he commissioned in Southeastern Pennsylvania counties. Shortly afterward, Rafferty won straw polls among the Southwest and Northwest Caucuses. According to the Rafferty campaign, they had held a 162-82 advantage in the fight for the party’s formal endorsement which was set to be voted on at their winter meeting in January. The caucuses’ results verified their claim. “With today’s votes, it’s (Cont. Page 24)
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(Cont. From Page 14) Since the tender age of 11 years, he has been in and around his community serving others in many positions relating to criminal justice, nonprofit organizations and public safety. He served as the first Junior Borough Councilman, a volunteer with the Norristown Fire Dept. and a volunteer EMT with the Plymouth Community Ambulance Association. Scott graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a Bachelors degree in business communications and earned a Master’s of Science in psychology (concentration in ODL) from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was sworn in this week in front of many loved ones, friends, neighbors and supporters, saying, “I am humbled and
excited at the opportunity my constituents have entrusted me. I look forward to running a court that is fair, transparent and where everyone leaves with their dignity intact.”
SINCE 1990
Philadelphia Regional Port Authority
State Rep.
Mark B.
COHEN 215-342-6340 202nd Legislative District
7012 Castor Ave. Philadelphia PA 19149
State Rep.
Donna Bullock 195th Leg. Dist. 2839 W. Girard Ave Phila, PA 19130 T: (215) 684-3738 F: (215) 235-4629
Donatucci
D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164
ROOM 134
City Hall 215-686-3464 State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600
John
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Taylor
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
(R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137
215-744-2600 State Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
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Chairman James T. McDermott, Jr. Executive Director
John F. Dempsey
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State Rep.
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R EPRESENTATIVE
A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE
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The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority wishes the hard-working men and women in the port industry, and all of our loyal friends and supporters, a happy and healthy holiday season!
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Page 16
Would You Rate Mayor Nutter This Way? by Brett Mandel It must be a heckuva thing to be the Mayor of Philadelphia. You get to bask in the city’s collective pride leading the Phillies World Series victory parade and welcoming the Vicar of Jesus Christ to Philadelphia. But, you must hang your head bearing the full weight of civic shame when a four-year old innocent perishes weighing only 34 lb. under the watch of the Dept. of Human Services, and when a building collapse takes six lives as it exposes horrific failures in the Dept. of Licenses & Inspections. He aspired to serve based on the ideals embodied in the Oath of the Athenian Citizen and, in many ways, Mayor Michael Nutter transmits Philadelphia to his successor not only, not less, but greater and more beautiful than it was transmitted to him. While Nutter’s legacy will be discussed and debated as he leaves office, each consideration will be viewed through a particular lens. I pay close attention to how the city raises and spends its money, so before looking ahead to the next administration, I cast a glance at what candidate Nutter promised in the issue areas where I have focused much of my public advocacy. Let’s take a look at the mayor’s tenure based on the bar he set for himself. Candidate Nutter declared he would “reform the process by which the City budget is devised and debated in order to achieve greater levels of public participation and government performance.” Early in the Nutter Administration, there were some exciting efforts made to engage the public in budget deliberations and discussions. But it didn’t stick and recent budgets have been crafted behind closed doors with a bunker mentality. Last year, the mayor unveiled a nifty online tool to visualize how money would be spent in the proposed budget, but it was nowhere near as de-
tailed or as useful as the fully searchable, detailed-to-the-lastpenny Bulldog Budget a mildmannered candidate for City Controller created years ago. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “revolutionize the budgeting process by putting the focus on outputs not inputs.” You say you want a revolution, well you know, we are still building a budget the oldfashioned way and focusing on inputs. However, pursuant to legislation passed into law a few years ago, the city should be moving toward programbased budgeting. With old habits so hard to break, we’ll have to see if this revelation turns into the promised revolution. Promise (so far) unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “convene the stakeholders in an honest and cooperative effort to redesign the pension and health benefits for City employees in order to make them sustainable for all concerned.” There were some nice things said about addressing the City’s growing pension crisis and the growth of the cost of health benefits provided for employees, but not much done about it. Provisions in new contracts with the city’s unionized workers allow workers to voluntarily opt out of the traditional defined-benefits plan into a new defined-contributions plan, but not many (have any?) have entered the alternate system. Other negotiated changes could reduce future health costs, but those savings are dwarfed by the growing unfunded pension obligation. The pension mess is even more messy than it was eight years ago — Philadelphia’s pension fund is now less than half funded (it was just more than half funded when Nutter took office) with an unfunded liability of about $6 Billion. It’s just the next Mayor’s problem, now. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “sustain the sched-
uled reductions in the Wage Tax to a rate of 3.25% for both residents and non-residents by 2015” and “establish a certain schedule for the gradual elimination of the Gross Receipts portion of the Business Privilege Tax over a five-to-sevenyear period and the gradual reduction of the Net Income portion of the BPT to the current rate of the Wage Tax.” After the global economic turmoil early in his tenure turned Michael Nutter, tax cutter, into Taxmaster Mike, Mayor Nutter actually raised taxes during his years in office. Real Estate Taxes went up again and again and again. A “temporary” increase to the Sales Tax came and then never went away. Other taxes came and went up as well. At least the Business Privilege Tax is gone — actually, the tax remains, but the name is changed. At the end of Nutter’s term, the Wage Tax stands at 3.9102% for residents and 3.4828% for non-residents (it had been 4.2190%/3.7242% when Nutter took office), the Gross Receipts portion of the Business Income and Receipts Tax is 1.415 mills (unchanged from when Nutter took office) and the Net Income portion is 6.41% (down from 6.5% when Nutter took office). Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “support a revenueneutral move toward Full Value Assessment by the [Board of Revision of Taxes] for the purposes of the Real Property Tax matched by a proportional reduction in the millage rate by City Council.” After some foot-dragging and a nearly disastrous effort to use what would become known as the Actual Value Initiative to raise additional tax revenues for the City and School District, the Nutter administration finally completed a thorough and much-needed revenue-neutral reassessment of all city properties for tax purposes. Make no mistake; this was a very big deal and an accom-
plishment that had eluded Mayors for the better part of the last half century. For the first time in living memory, real-estate taxation is not criminally unfair. Still, while similar properties are now valued similarly, values must be further refined for even-better accuracy and it is not a good sign that the City has failed to keep up with legally mandated annual assessment adjustment after the massive revaluation. This was not easy and it was not perfect, but it was accomplished. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “support a fair and accurate reassessment of property in the City to current market value with the provision that safeguards be in place… that ensure no Philadelphian is forced to sell their home because of an increase in property taxes,” and that he would “propose and work with City Council to enact a homestead exemption that will exclude some fraction of assessed value from taxation for all property owners” and “propose and work with City Council to enact a cap and deferral plan for paying property taxes that will protect property owners from unreasonably large and rapid increases in their taxes.” Working with City Council, Mayor Nutter enacted a homestead exemption as well as other policy measures to soften the blow of the citywide reassessment. As a result, a large majority of city homeowners actually saw reduced Real Estate Tax bills after the completion of the Actual Value Initiative and only a small fraction saw their tax bills increase by a significant percentage. There have been no reports of any homeowners being forced to sell their homes due to the reassessment efforts. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “modify the 10-year Tax Abatement to encourage development beyond Center City and help provide relief for the City’s critical need for af-
fordable housing.” This policy initiative never moved forward and the abatement program is as it has been. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “present realistic estimates of the costs and funding sources of new proposals” and “base my budgets on a realistic estimate of future revenue.” To their credit, the Nutter number crunchers have been reasonably clear-eyed and straightforward with most of their bean counting. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “design a policy for issuing new municipal debt and stick to it.” That was his story and he is sticking to it. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “establish a Rainy Day Fund.” It took a few years to get it done, but Philadelphia finally joined most other sophisticated state and local governments
with a formal place to save for a rainy day. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “direct all agencies of City government to pursue non-local funding opportunities to bring additional resources to City priorities.” Consider them directed. There have been some happy stories to tell of agencies finding new funding opportunities (but we should build and broaden these successes). Promise fulfilled. Of course, Mayor Nutter scored successes or suffered setbacks in other areas as well. Any accounting of individual policy initiatives misses a more complete picture of a healthy forest for a focus on individual trees. There remains so much work to be done to make Philadelphia a preferred place to live, work, and visit. Thank you, Mayor Nutter, for your efforts. Best of luck, Mayor Kenney, continuing the work.
DA Williams Creates Pre-Trial Felony-Diversion Pilot Program District Attorney R. Seth Williams has launched a new pre-trial felony-diversion pilot program called ‘Future Forward’ to provide individuals who have been charged with a non-violent felony crime an alternative to incarceration. The program, first of its kind in the nation, is designed to increase access to educational opportunities and reduce recidivism. “We all know crime goes up when people can’t gain access to the classroom,” said Williams. “So we’re going to break that cycle by giving more of our city’s young men and women the opportunity to start fresh and reap the benefits that come from a post-secondary education, new life skills and a clean record for themselves and their families.” The pilot program is a partnership between the District Attorney’s Office and the Col-
lege and their Reentry Support Project of the Fox Rothschild Center for Law & Society with the support of the 1st Judicial District, the Defenders Association of Philadelphia, and Brown’s ShopRite. During the yearlong program, enrollees will earn a minimum of 24 credits at Community College of Philadelphia, complete lifeskills classes and engage in a student support group. Throughout the program, participants will also be assigned a case manager and have their progress monitored during regular status hearings before the Hon. Sheila Woods-Skipper. If they remain arrest free for one year after completing Future Forward, they will also have their record expunged. Eligible candidates must be 24 years of age, earned a highschool degree or equivalent GED, be charged with a nonviolent offense.
Hark, The Angels Sing!
CHAMPION track hurdler Nia Ali, with her TEAM cheerleaders from Eagles and Sixers son and mother, joined Councilman David Oh surrounded Councilman David Oh and TV at giant holiday party for children he spon- hostess Kysha Woods. Photos by Wendell Douglas sored at temple University Student Pavilion.
SEPTA Food Drive
STUDENT Pavilion was full of happy children at Councilman David Oh’s SEPTA General Mgr. Jeff Knueppel visited employees at SEPTA’s Frankford District to h o l i d a y thank them for their support of 2015 “Stop Hunger at Your Station” food drive. This year party. a record was set. Through food and monetary donations, 29,000 meals were donated to Philabundance and its member agencies. Since 2009, SEPTA customers and employees have contributed more than 214,000 meals to feed neighbors in need across SEPTA’s service area. TWO former Penna. House members gathered at home of retired State Rep. Camille “Bud” George and his wife Edna in Penna. hunting territory. Together with Thomas and David Heichel and David Wulderek, they welcomed former State Rep. and Congressman Michael “Ozzie” Myers, ANNUAL Christmas Party at St. Thomas 1st African Church in Overbrook hosted by Angel at right of his hosts. Tree of Life brought Christmas joy to children of incarcerated parents with presents they were anonymously sent to an- JUDGE JOSEPH WATERS had requested during year. Committee members include Father Martini Shaw, Father Another Philadelphia paper. She about his colleague Municipal gelo Wildgoose, Ricardo Bostic, Betty Stanley, Bertha Jackson, Gloria Thomas, Brenda BatJUDGE DAWN released more of Republican Court (Cont. From Page 10) tle, Cornelia Camp, Gwen Cottman, Linda Holmes, Loretta Ferguson and Kim SEGAL. Waters and Segal are Supreme Court JUSTICE Photos by Leona Dixon changes. Given that she beParis-Holmes. lieves the current charges MICHAEL EAKIN’S emails both Democrats. Segal had reBROTHERS against her were trumped up just around the time the fused to reopen a tax-delinOF HIRAM # by a group of white good old Supreme Court was consider- quency judgment of $5,000 5 Lodge Maboys out to get her over her re- ing suspending her law license. against Roca’s son. Waters apsons donated view of these emails, she The Pennsylvania Court of Ju- pears to have talked to Segal toys, gifts and should have appointed an inde- dicial Discipline on Tuesday who reversed her decision and served food. pendent prosecutor a while suspended Eakin from his judi- reopened the case. If Roca ago. Gansler plans to look at cial and administrative duties loses her job over this, she until the Court can have a for- may wish she had just given all of the emails. her son the $5000. It should be The initial list of email ex- mal trial. noted that Segal was suspended Eakin may lose his job for changers came out shortly beSISTERS OF fore the Nov 2014 election in inappropriate personal corre- from her duties earlier this SWING PHI which TOM CORBETT was spondence, but not for any ac- year after Waters pled guilty to SWING (Sorunning for reelection. That list tual judicial misconduct. attempting to influences cases cial Sorority) only included then-current and However, Democratic Com- and implicated Segal. Sadly, donated toys, former Corbett staffers. We mon Pleas Court JUDGE AN- roughly 80% of voters decided gifts and only found out about former GELES ROCA is in hot water to retain Segal in Nov. Judicial time. Photo by Democratic Supreme Court for interfering in a case involv- disciplinary court may do what Leona Dixon JUSTICE SEAMUS McCAF- ing her son. Apparently she the voters did not. Republican FERY’S involvement in Porn- was caught on tape complain- City Committee recommended gate after some of his emails ing to Municipal Court that she not be retained.
Keeping Christmas Meaning In Song
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
THOUGH they are singing Christmas chorales, these youngsters at St. Maron’s Church have their eyes turned towards door from which Santa Claus is expected to make an appearance.
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Oh Fêtes Kids At Temple
Gone Hunting
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Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell Brings Christmas Cheer To Shelter Families
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Page 18
C O U N C I L WOMAN Jannie Blackwell is congratulated by Councilman Mark Squilla at Convention Center where she was Santa Claus for 3,000 now living in City Shelters, feeding, entertaining, and giving all children presents.
EXPRESSIVE scope of what Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell brings together to host shelter families before Christmas Day with food, entertainment and gifts for children of all ages is glimpsed by this photo. TOYS, TOYS everywhere at Convention Center, where Jannie “Mrs. Santa Claus” Blackwell provided each child gifts geared to their ages at her annual Christmas dinner for shelter families. GREETING wheelchair guest, one of many, is Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who hosted city’s shelter population at her annual Christmas holiday party at Convention Center.
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need in comfortable familiar setting. “The beauty of this is that we’re bringing lawyers in who want to help, yes, but we are taking them to places where their help is most needed. So we are not taking them into Center City, they are coming into Hunting Park.” This process allows clients to come into a place they know. A place they will feel natural. Moore’s and Hileman’s mutual respect and admiration for each other is evident. “He is very dedicated to his work. His story is very unique,” Moore says of Hileman. “She is a very special person,” Hileman says. “She has a special heart.” Volunteers are always welcome, even those individuals not of the Christian faith. “We thank God for volunteers,” Moore says. There are roughly 80 volunteer attorneys who lend their time to the clinic. The clinics operate with the idea of giving hope to the hopeless. It’s a job that never
Jaimee L. Moore runs out. “For us, it’s what we do all year long,” Moore says. CLCP began in 2002. It was spearheaded by cofounder Dennis Abrams, Esq. Abrams is senior trial partner with the Philadelphia medicalmalpractice firm of Lowenthal & Abrams, PC. He also sits as the Board of Directors as president of the CLCP. The first clinic operated at
the Salvation Army. Currently it connects seven clinics located throughout Philadelphia and Chester Counties. The clinics are strategically placed to help more-impoverished areas. The Ayuda Legal Clinic is located in the Hunting Park area of Philadelphia. The Carroll Park Legal Clinic, Salvation Army Legal Clinic in West Philadelphia, South Philadelphia Legal Clinic, Chester Legal Clinic, Germantown Legal Clinic, and Kensington Legal Clinic all operate on different days of the week. The CLCP has plans to move up to a total of 10 clinics in 2016. It is best for a potential client to review the CLCP website to find a clinic near them and what time that clinic operates. That website is http://www.clcphila.org/.
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Peter Hileman solely up to the client: “We don’t force clients to receive the spiritual aspects of our work. We don’t force them to sit for prayer. We don’t force them to take the gospel. We offer it to them. If they choose to take it, they do. If they don’t, they don’t. But I can’t remember having a client turning down prayer.” CLCP has many resources for clients because it is not a one-stop shop. Monopolization of the legal-aid field is not its objective. Their goal is to help out as many people as possible. This does not limit them from referring them to another organization for legal aid of referring them to another clergy that can better serve their needs. Moore, along with Peter Hileman, Esq., the executive director, are the two lawyers on staff. Hileman is a trial attorney with over 35 years of experience. Originally a Doylestown trial attorney, Hileman in his later years to
felt the call to move into Philadelphia and serve in the city. He had never lived in the city before. Hileman’s call to action comes from his connection to Christianity and his experience as an attorney. “I’m a Christian and I’m a lawyer. So lawyers are encouraged to do Pro bono work. It’s part of our obligation to give back to people who can’t afford legal services because lawyers are expensive. That was one of my motivations; if I can help, I wanted to help” he says. The Philadelphia area was an obvious choice for him. “As a Christian, I really felt the call to help, particularly in the city because the need is great,” Hileman says. He noticed a difference between helping people who can’t afford the legal services and with those that could afford it. The overall outreach plan is to reach as many people as possible in the neighborhoods and to allow them to get the legal service they
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
by Eldon Graham ’Tis the season for hope. It is that time of the year when the spirit of Christmas overwhelms individuals to give back to their community. But one organization gives back all year long. The Christian Legal Clinic of Philadelphia is a legal-aid organization designed to help people who live in struggling neighborhoods with litigation issues. The mission of the CLCP is a very simple one. As explained by Jaimee L. Moore Esq., the Legal Director of CLCP, “At the very core of what we do is: we seek to do justice with the love of God.” CLCP provides legal services such as, a free legal consultations, referrals, and pro bono work in certain cases but also provides a spiritual aspect in the form prayer as Christians. Both of these services are optional for anyone who wishes to seek counsel at the CLCP. CLCP is an excellent source of legal aid for people seeking expungements and wills, or coping with immigration, housing issues, family matters and more. Those seeking consultation do not need to be of Christian faith. All consultations are guaranteed at least one hour and are confidential. Consultations are best scheduled prior to meeting with an attorney. Moore explains how receiving spiritual services is
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CLCP Giving Lawful Hope To The Hopeless
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Prince Hall Masons, Sheriff Williams Bring Christmas To Youngsters Masons of Pennsylvania and Sheriff Jewell Williams hosted the 1st District Children’s Christmas Party at the Masonic Temple, 4301 N. Broad Street, Saturday. Santa Claus personally helped distribute toys to more than 150 children assisted by Sheriff Williams and elves who were Masons, members of the Eastern Star (the female branch of the organization) and Deputy Sheriff officers from the Office of the Sheriff of Philadelphia City & County’s Bike Unit, which also donated toys to the event. SHERIFF Jewell Williams, in sweater, is surrounded by elves who served food and helped Santa Claus deliver toys to needy youngsters at annual Prince Hall Grand Lodge headquarters.
SANTA CLAUS welcomes help from high-powered Masons at Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free Masons at 1st District’s annual Christmas Party for needy youngsters. With him, from left, are Sheriff Jewell Williams, President Isaac Goldman and RWJ Donald Jones.
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for a better and stronger community And promoting renaissance of North Broad St. Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Jr. Business Manager/Co-Chairman L.E.C.E.T. Co-Chairman Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Damian Lavelle Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper, Jr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.
Laborers’ District Council promotes a safe work environment, jobs completed on time and on budget, and represents union members, who are well trained, productive, professional, and take pride in their work. Union labor…building better and safer communities in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. This ad is presented by LECET
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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Register of Wills
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Page 22
Bringing Crèche To Village PLEASED at Crèche display now being seen at Christmas Village on Love Park were Committee leaders Pat Stanton and Chairman John Kelly. Father Dennis Gill, of Cathedral Parish, presided over dedication. In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 150101723 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure PNC Bank, National Association, Successor by Merger to National City Bank, Successor by Merger to National City Mortgage Co., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased & Danoise Narsice, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased & Danoise Narsice, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased, Mortgagor And Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 5864 North Marshall Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120. 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, PNC Bank, National Association, Successor by Merger to National City Bank, Successor by Merger to National City Mortgage Co., has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 150101723, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 5864 North Marshall Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120, 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 Assoc., 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 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
New Waterfront Road Boon To River Wards Phase 1 of the Delaware Avenue Extension, a new roadway and trail project built along the Delaware Riverfront Greenway in Northeast Philadelphia is now open. The extension, connecting Port Richmond to Bridesburg, includes a 0.6-mile section of new roadway, a bridge over the Frankford Creek and a multi-use trail segment extending from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street. In addition to connecting the communities, the project provides a vital, direct route to and from I-95 for the industries situated north of Lewis Street, improving access for these waterfront businesses and relieving the Bridesburg community of large truck traffic on their neighborhood streets. The federally funded project, which cost $14.5 million, began in March 2014 and was designed by Urban Engineers, Inc., with Buckley Co., Inc.
performing the construction. The extension cuts through former industrial-park areas and other space and includes two 15-foot-wide road lanes bordered by a six-foot-wide sidewalk on the west side and a 10-foot to 12-foot-wide, multi-use asphalt trail on the east side. The project also includes significant new landscaping; storm-water inlets and pipes; street lights; and a new 160-foot-wide long bridge over Frankford Creek. Streets Commissioner David J. Perri noted, “The project has transformed access to the riverfront, creating a new route and a new destination that’s clean, green and safe for those who live, work and visit here.” The multi-use trail component of the Delaware Avenue Extension is part of the Circuit, a network of hundreds of miles of trails throughout a nine-county region in Pennsyl-
vania and South Jersey. The first phase of the project is 0.6 miles of a two-mile road that will eventually extend from Lewis Street to the Frankford Boat Launch and connect to I95. The second phase, set to begin in 2017 and be completed in 2018, will continue the ex-
tension of Delaware Avenue from north of Orthodox Street to Buckius Street. Also in development is a new 10-acre riverfront park in Bridesburg. Final park designs will be presented at a public community meeting on Dec. 16.
Pennsylvania Graduation Rate Tops National Average The National Center for Education Statistics announced Tuesday high school graduation rates hit a fouryear high of 82.3 percent in the 2013-14 school year — and Pennsylvania students fared even better at 85.3%. “Earning a high-school diploma is both an important achievement, as well as a necessary prerequisite for college and career readiness,” said State Dept. of Education Secretary Pedro Rivera. “There is still room for Pennsylvania
to make gains, especially in narrowing the gap in graduation rates among subgroups, but overall the Commonwealth’s students are measuring up to their peers nationally.” Certain cross-sections of students — including English language learners, those with disabilities and those whom are economically disadvantaged — also graduate at higher rates in Pennsylvania when compared with the national average.
Port Adds Mexican Shipping Traffic Terminal Operator Logistics Corp. and Philadelphia Regional Authority have secured
Holt the Port new
shipping service to the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal in South Philadelphia that will link directly with port opera-
PHA Gets $2.7 Million Jobs Grant Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-Phila.), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced the Philadelphia Housing Authority has been awarded $2.7 million from the US Dept. of Housing & Urban Development to offer new job-training programs for PHA residents. The federally-funded initiative will support residents of Philadelphia’s Raymond Rosen Apartments through locallybased approaches to job training and skills development. The program will target the 884 work-able residents who reside in PHA’s Raymond
Rosen complex. The competitive grant award is part of HUD’s Jobs Plus Pilot Program for Public Housing Agencies. Community partners involved in the Jobs Plus Pilot program will include the Joseph J Peters Institute, Mayor’s Office of Community Empowerment & Opportunity, Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, Center for Social Policy & Community Development, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Opening Opportunities for All, and Manpower.
tions on the Gulf of Mexico. SeaLand, the intra-Americas regional ocean carrier of the Maersk Group, is launching a new line in 2016, its “Atlantico” service, which will call the Mexican ports of Veracruz and Altamira before making a direct connection to the Packer Avenue Terminal in Philadelphia. The SeaLand Atlantico service will begin weekly calls to Packer Avenue starting Feb. 3, and continue with weekly calls between Mexico and Philadelphia. The Atlantico service offers an alternative transportation option for trade between the Gulf of Mexico and Eastern United States, which generally employs ground transportation on 95% of its volumes. This line will particularly benefit producers and exporters of perishable goods to the US by providing economies of scale, security
and reliability of an ocean service. Targeted commodities include goods such as avocados, lemons, tomatoes and commercial cargo. “We’re very excited about this new weekly service with Mexico,” said PRPA Chairman Jerry Sweeney. “It’s another example of the kinds of things that happen at the port when you have great publicprivate partnerships in place. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is proud to invest in its marine terminals and provide business support, which assists aggressive, savvy terminal operators like the Holts in bringing home a great piece of business like this one.” The new SeaLand Atlantico service will have the following port rotation schedule: Veracruz – Altamira – Philadelphia. For more information, please visit http://news.sealand.com/atlantico
VOLUNTEER college students Champagne Powell and Ashley Peebles get ready to help pass out brand-new bikes, games and dolls at Laborers’ Local 332 Hall on Ridge Avenue.
LABORERS’ ace operatives Cheryl Lee and Tamica BaconMoss are proud to gift unfortunate children with Barbie sets, balls and board games.
Rain-Soaked Carpenters Got This Tent Up In Time
THIS is hospitality tent which welcomed sports and charity VIPs at Toyota Tundra Food Drive at Citizens Bank. Setting it up in driving rain day before were union Carpenters who donated their services as Christmas gift.
LABORERS Tyrone Chestnut, John Welch and Allen Phillips are poised to keep all Phila.’s youngsters as warm as possible this winter season.
Squilla, Firefighters Warm Up
ONE GOOD thing after another! First it was pajama day at Sharswood ES in Whitman. Then, little Selena was given brand-new warm winter coat by Firefighters Local 22 President Andrew Thomas as Councilman Mark Squilla beams.
OPERATING ENGINEERS Local 542 volunteers pitched in at Citizens Bank Park to load holiday food supplies for needy families. Photo by Wendell Douglas
Photo by Wendell Douglas
OPERATING Engineers Local 542 members, led by Brian Jones and Dan Sullivan, seen in front row right, contributed equipment and time to helping Toyota Tundra Food Drive for Philabundance Food Bank to insure fruit and vegetables and other foods would be available for needy families this Christmas season.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Toyota Tundra, Carpenters, Engineers Help Philabundance
ORGANIZING food drive for Philabundance were its Exec. Dir. Glenn Bergman with sponsor Paul Muller, president of Tri-State Toyota, joined by cr4ew members Jessica Wyckoff, Liz Edelman, Emily Glick and Amanda White.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Laborers Local 332 Brought Christmas To Abused Children
Page 23
Loving Is The Key To This Merry Christmas
Page 24 The Public Record • December 24, 2015 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
(Cont. From Page 15) clear Sen. Rafferty will have the votes he needs to win the endorsement,” Stephens stated in a message to supporters and the press. “I want to congratulate him on his win, and thank him for a spirited contest for the endorsement. It’s clear that his four years of hard work preparing to run paid off.” He also thanked all the officials who endorsed him, a considerable list that included State Sen. Scott Wagner (R-York). In fact, earlier this month Stephens won the straw poll of the Republican Central Caucus. Nevertheless, Rafferty now appears to be the presumptive GOP nominee for AG. H represents the 44th Dist., which includes parts of Montgomery, Chester and Berks Counties. He served as a Deputy Attorney General where he worked in the Criminal Law Division prosecuting Medicaid fraud. His campaign has been endorsed by a number of influential organizations, including the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association, the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police, the Pennsylvania Professional Firefighters Association and the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation. Undaunted is Allegheny County District Attorney Steven Zappala, Jr., who announced his campaign for Pennsylvania Attorney General in the Democratic primary. Considered one of the most-experienced lawyers and prosecutors to run for Pennsylvania’s top law enforcement position, Zappala vowed to restore confidence in the office of the Attorney General supporters in his home town of Pittsburgh. Zappala’s grandfather Frank was an Italian immigrant who put himself through the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Law. He became known as a neighborhood lawyer and was later elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Steve’s father, Stephen Zappala, Sr., served as the Chief Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. “In my family, the practice of law has always been about public service. My grandfather and father each served as great role models who believed as I do that practicing law is not about billing by the hour, but making sure the voices of regular people are heard by the courts and they are treated equally and fairly,” said Zappala – who is currently serving in his fifth term as DA. A corruption-buster who has taken on powerful corporate interests and politicians, Zappala won convictions against a sitting Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice and state legislators who abused the public trust. Former federal prosecutor, Philadelphia City Solicitor and mayoral candidate Ken Trujillo said, “Serving as Attorney General is serious business and requires a serious person like Steve Zappala who has not just practiced law for decades and prosecuted criminals, but understands the complexities of our criminaljustice system and has a passion for making it work equally for those who possess power as well as the least powerful people living in poverty throughout our city and the Commonwealth.” Congressman Robert Brady, chair of the Philadelphia Democratic City Committee, said, “Steve Zappala comes from a great family tradition of highly respected lawyers in Pennsylvania. I’ve known him for many years. Steve has done great work as Allegheny County’s District Attorney, and there is no question he is highly qualified to serve as Pennsylvania’s Attorney General.” Allegheny County labor leader Jack Shea said, “He’s the best DA we’ve ever had and no one would blame him if after five terms he chose to go earn top dollar at some law firm, but that’s just not what he’s ever been about. It’s been a long time since Pennsylva-
nia’s top lawyer actually put middle and working-class families first.”
Sims Endorsed For Congress Brian Sims’ campaign to represent the 2nd Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives has received the endorsement of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, the nation’s largest resource for LGBT candidates. “Brian has been a staunch advocate for civil rights as an attorney, an advocate, and as a legislator in the Pennsylvania General Assembly,” said Aisha Moodie-Mills, President and CEO of the Victory Fund and Institute. “We know Brian will take his fight for equality to Washington, where he’ll be a tireless champion for the LGBT community.” “It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the Victory Fund,” said Representative Sims. “I’m running for Congress for the same reason I became a civil rights attorney and the same reason I ran for the State House; I want to fight for those who get left behind by our system and our government. I will be a relentless advocate for equality and opportunity for people of every race, gender, and sexual identity, and I am proud to have the support of the good people of the Victory Fund in that effort.” Brian Sims, who will run for both his State House seat, hopes to duplicate what Congressman Brendan Boyle did, win both seats in coming primary.
US Senate Primary Drawing Charges Braddock Mayor and Democratic Senate candidate John Fetterman is taking a hit for failing to file his income and financial asset reports on time, which he described as an oversight. He’s now three months late. Considering himself the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination to challenge US Sen. Pat Toomey is former and Joe Sestak. This week, he returned to the steps of the State Capitol because of the budget to again
distribute food, bedding, and supplies to people impacted by the crisis now in its sixth month as the State legislature’s recess approaches. “This is about people,” Sestak said as he once again unloaded pallets of basic necessities for distribution. “In the Navy, I distributed humanitarian aid from the Horn of Africa to the Middle East because of natural disasters, poverty, and hunger. I never expected there would be a need to do so when I returned home to Pennsylvania because of a political disaster.” Ten days earlier, Sestak had been at the capitol steps with Harrisburg’s own Downtown Daily Bread, Shalom House, and other community groups to hand out supplies to those in need. Admiral Sestak returned today with additional pallets of food, school supplies, blankets, and pillows as the Christmas holiday approaches and the winter weather continues to grow progressively colder. The State budget crisis – already clocking in at more than 170 days – is preventing federal dollars from being released for housing assistance programs, domestic abuse shelters, public education, and various other human-resources services that help working families. State law prohibits most federal funds from being distributed without a budget. “We’re talking about millions of federal dollars prevented from reaching public schools that educate our children, nonprofits that feed the hungry, organizations that provide shelter to the victims of domestic violence, and programs that help keep roofs over the heads of those in danger of losing their homes,” Sestak said.
Waxman Brings Labor Smarts To 182nd Race A labor-friendly political expert will enter the crowded Democratic primary in the 182nd Legislative Dist. Ben Waxman, currently press secretary for State Rep. Vincent Hughes (D-W. Phila.), will declare formally after New Year’s Day. He and
his wife live in a condominium at 22nd & Chestnut Streets; his parents have lived in Center City for decades. Waxman came to the labor movement through his mother, who was a union member. Legendary activist Tom Cronin (whom Waxman hails as an “old-school radical”) inspired him to become an organizer. He has done organizing work with the Musicians Union in New York City, and in Philadelphia with AFSCME District Council 47 and United Food & Commercial Workers. Waxman cut his teeth in journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, where he worked on the Daily Penn. He has a track record with the Daily News and WHYY. Philadelphia’s major problems need an experienced hand in the General Assembly, says Waxman. “Philadelphia is at a turning point. I remember what Center City was like in the ’90s; we have seen great changes. But there are very serious barriers that prevent Phila from moving in a positive direction and Harrisburg is right in the middle of them. On public transit, poverty, schools, we have gone as far as we can in the city. We need to work in Harrisburg and we need people who are focused on doing that job. “I am part of the progressive movement and the labor movement,” stated Waxman. “Both are my homes. I work as bridge between the two.” Waxman asserted he has $70,000 in the can already to fuel his campaign.
Eyes On Cephas For 192nd Dist. In the wake of State Rep. Louise Bishop’s (D-W. Phila.) resignation last week, a well-connected political pro from Overbrook appears poised to seek the vacant 192nd Legislative Dist. Seat. Morgan Cephas, deputy chief of staff for 4th Dist. Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., has been circulating around West Philadelphia with an eye toward running. If she does run, and is
elected, she would constitute the first protégée of Jones’ to take over a State Rep slot. That’s a common way for a City Council Member to build a personal city-state action team.
Primary Fight Expected For 195th Legislative Seat Newly elected 195th Legislative Dist. State Rep. Donna Bullock (D-N. Phila.) should expect a primary fight. Among most-prominent names mentioned is Judge Jimmy Moore. He is said to have strong support from Democratic City Committee Treasurer and 29th Ward Leader Frank Oliver, who retired from the seat which then went to State Rep. Michelle Brownlee.
Dems Settling On Rep. White Opponent It is reported the Democratic Caucus in the 170th Legislative Dist. expects to settle on Matthew Darragh, a committeeman in Ward 66B, as their candidate in next year’s general election. State Rep. Martina White (RNortheast) took that seat in a special election. The district is now considered a swing district, GOP in off-presidential elections and a Democratic in statewide elections. Philadelphia once had about a dozen such swing districts prior to Mayor Frank Rizzo’s declaration for Mayor, when Republican voters changed their registrations in big numbers to elect the then-Police Commissioner.
Pat Murphy Back In Army Former Congressman Pat Murphy has been confirmed by the US Senate as Under Secretary of the US Army, the number-2 civilian position and the chief management officer. He said, “I thank President Obama, Secretary Carter and Acting Secretary Fanning for their trust and confidence and also the United States Senate for their confirmation. Making sure we have the best Army possible to defend our nation, and that our brave warriors have every tactical and technical advantage over our enemies, is a mission I accept.”
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
(Cont. From Page 10) as there was no refrigeration in days of old. It was a common fish and a staple of all the people. Like baccalà, Christianity embraces the lives of all people. Stockfish was served next. It is also codfish, but it is sundried, like the sun that bore down on the workers in Christ’s time. Christ also labored in the heat of the sun to bring his message to the world. Squid or calamari is served next and its tentacles symbolize the extensive teaching of Christ. The eel is served next, as it symbolizes the speed with
as fresh as possible and everyone must eat some of each dish. Zia Maria would say, “What-za-mad-der, you sick or some-a-thing? Eat some more fish!” For the Med-i-cans, and anyone else that are curious and want to experience the feast, many good restaurants offer this specialty on Christmas Eve. Reservations are usually required as this is a very popular event. This traditional Italian feast is a wonderful way to get the family and friends together and really “catch” the Christmas (and Christian) spirit – not with a rod and reel, but with ties to our past, and a legacy to our future. So, as Zia Maria would say, “Mange!”
Page 25
WAFFLEMAN
which Christianity has spread throughout the world. Whiting or merluzzo was an abundant fish. It represents the abundance of love that Christ had for all mankind. Smelts are small fish and represent the fact that the smallest and humblest of God’s creatures are still loved by Christ. Also served in our home was broccoli rabe. These bitter greens remind us of the bitter times that Christ endured in his lifetime. These seven courses are served in many different recipes. Some are delicious and some are simply tasted, for they may not be one’s favorite food. In some homes they serve 13 fish courses; but seven or 13, the fish must be
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(Cont. From Page 10) So we near the end of the year with no budget. Meanwhile, school districts are taking out big loans to make payroll. Nonprofits that help seniors like Germantown’s Center In The Park are having to lay off workers vital to their mission. Heck, The School District of Philadelphia, a school district that the Commonwealth basically owns, may not be able to open some of its schools come Jan. 29. So now that it’s officially crazy, it might be time to say to our legislators that all we want for Christmas is a 2015 budget…. Especially since Gov. Wolf will be delivering his 2016 budget address in February. Next week, we look back on 2015, the year when politics became a reality show.
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The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 24, 2015
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(Cont. From Page 10) implicated in the scandal. At least for this week, KATHLEEN KANE has weathered the storm and not resigned from office. Who knows when this tornado will subside and how much destruction will be done? It has certainly been entertaining for the media but in the end is not good for anybody in Pennsylvania. As of this writing, Pennsylvania still has no State budget. All any of us want for Christmas is a passed budget that provides sufficient funding for schools. Teamsters sources tell CHS that DR. WILLIAM HITE and MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER overnighted their Christmas list pleading for more Philly school funding to Santa via UPS.
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The City of Philadelphia, Philadelphia International Airport, is requesting PROPOSALS for “AIRPORT ON CALL PROJECT/CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES.” All proposals are to be submitted to www.phila.gov/contracts/ by 5 pm JANUARY 25, 2016 and also as directed in the REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS. Interested firms are invited to download the rfp directly from http://www.phila.gov/contracts/ (click under “eContract Philly”).
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290 NOTICE OF STATED MEETING Notice is hereby given that the first Regular Stated Meeting of City Council for 2016 is scheduled for Monday, January 4, 2016 at 10:00 AM.. This Meeting will be held at the Academy of Music, Broad and Locust Streets, Philadelphia, PA. Michael A. Decker Chief Clerk
CITY
COUNCIL
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290
2016 NOTICE OF VACANT PROPERTY REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETINGS The Vacant Property Review Committee will meet in the Caucus Room, (Room 401, City Hall) from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the following dates: Tuesday, January 12, 2016 Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Tuesday, March 8, 2016 Tuesday, April 12, 2016 Tuesday, May 10, 2016 Tuesday, June 14, 2016 Tuesday, July 12, 2016 Tuesday, August 9, 2016 Tuesday, September 13, 2016 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 Tuesday, November 15, 2016 Tuesday, December 13, 2016 SUSIE D. JARMON, CHAIRWOMAN Vacant Property Review Committee
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QUESTION: Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Can I pay one debt better than others? ANSWER: Everyone with debts has at least one bill they’d like to pay, even if they can’t pay them all. So if you are already filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy and repaying some debt, why not treat some better than others? Sometimes that is allowed
and sometimes not. It’s a complicated issue because, at the heart of the Chapter 13 plan, there is a pool of money – the payments you make – which has to be divided among creditors. If one is paid more, others get less typically. So favoring one means discriminating against others. The law requires some discrimination. For example, if you aren’t paying everyone in full, then you typically have to provide for special “priority”
Sadly, there are only limited ways to do that because it gives you a “head start” not a “fresh start” at the end of your case, according to some. So arguing that your sister’s loan to you deserves special treatment because she’s been good to you probably won’t fly. But all is not lost. If paying the debt with special treatment is necessary to keep your case afloat or otherwise earning income, then it might be better received by the court. So some judges have allowed restitution and some business-related debts to be paid preferentially, recognizing that going to jail or having to close your business down is counterproductive to getting anyone paid well. Next Week’s Question: Can you use bankruptcy to get college transcripts?
Page 27
by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified
claims to be paid in full. These are things the government has a special interest in – paying the trustee, child support, recent taxes and so on. In other cases, like your home and car, the law often allows payment of these “secured” debts in preferential ways over your other debt because you need those assets to keep going (and putting the money into the pot each month!). But what if the debt is one you can’t wipe out at the end of the typical case, like student loans? Can you pay those in full and “short-change” the other debts you can wipe out?
Senator Tony Helps Santa
Bike Riding With President Clarke
STATE SEN. Anthony Williams welcomed Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus to huge party for kids at KIPP Charter School in Cobbs Creek.
At St. Thomas’ Church
Operating Engineers Bring In The Food For Christmas’ Poor
ONE YOUNGSTER enjoying his electric scooter at annual Christmas Party at St. Thomas 1st African Church in Overbrook hosted by Angel Tree of Life brought Christmas joy to children of incarcerated parents with presents they had requested during year. Photo by Leona Dixon
Hibernian Hunger Project
OPERATING Engineers Local 542 members, led by Brian Jones and Dan Sullivan, seen in front row right, contributed equipment and time to helping annual Toyota Tundra Food Drive for Philabundance Food Bank to insure fruit and vegetables and other foods would be available for needy families this Christmas season. More Pics Page 23
Philadelphia Parking Authority Employees Delivered Food, Toys For Santa PHILA. Parking Authority employees and Santa Claus stuffed nine vans in their annual Santa Caravan with food and toys which they delivered this week to needy families around City.
HIBERNIAN Hunger Project delivered 200 holiday food cartons, up from 167 last year, to needy families. Port executive and Ancient Order of Hibernians City President Joe Fox was on hand with Dir. Bob Gessler and Father Edward Brady at Shamrock Warehouse. Volunteers fanned out across the region delivering a happy holiday in this commendable effort. Photo by Joe Stivala
C2HM Firm Gifts Bicycles
ENGINEERING firm C2HM gifted bicycles to children at W. Oak Lane Charter School under aegis of Council Members Marian Tasco and Cindy Bass, with Council Members-Elect Derek Green and Cherelle Parker. Photo by Wendell Douglas
DELIGHTED Brandi Bey was one of dozens of children at Lenfest Center aft e r s c h o o l program to receive new bicycle for holidays, presented to her by Council President Darrell Clarke.
Real Meaning Of Christmas
CHILDREN from St. Francis Xavier Choir enthralled visitors at dedication of annual Christmas Crèche at Christmas Village on corner of 16th & JFK Boulevard. They brought real meaning of Christmas to all. Another Pic Page 20.
Kenyatta Spreads Christmas Cheers JOY in her face, Tameerah Upshaw receives new bike for Christmas from Councilman Kenyatta Johnson at Eastwick Playground.
XÇ}Éç|Çz fÑ|Ü|à Éy Z|ä|Çz Sogging Rain, Soaking Rain Didn’t Daunt Carpenters G U E S T what’s at other end of rope being pulled by Metropolitan Union of Carpenters who were volunteering their time in heavy rain? Answer Page 23
Sheriff Helps Santa At Prince Hall Lodge
‘Laboring’ To Make Kids Smile
LABORERS’ UNION Local 332 staged annual holiday for children who are staying in shelters for protection from abuse. For safety reasons, children’s faces cannot be shown. But Business Mgr. Sam Staten, Jr. is proud to display warm caps and gloves for them. More Pics Page 23
Doing What Comes Naturally To Pacifico KERRY PACIFICO, left, as he has done for past 15 years, has Santa Claus help him distribute Christmas gifts to over underprivileged youngsters yearly. Looking on are Emelia Talarico, his daughter Maria, and Santa’s elf G e o r g i n a Wigand. Santa is David Waz. More pics Page 11
SHERIFF J e w e l l Williams, in sweater, is sur rounded by elves who served food and helped Santa Claus deliver toys to needy youngster s at annual Prince Hall Grand Lodge headquarters. More pics P. 20
Jannie Hosts 3,000 Again
EVERY YEAR Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell hosts for dinner and gift-giving 3,000 men, women, children who call city shelters home. More pics Page 18.
Marines Get Hefty Local 57 Check
LABORERS’ Local 57 members contributed sizeable check to Marine Corps’ annual Christmas Toys for Tots campaign. Seen here with Marine are, from left, Recording Secretary Estebán Vera, Secretary Mike Carfagno, Business Mgr. Walt Higgins and President Stanley Sanders made donation to Marines Toys for Tots Drive.
Page 2 The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 24, 2015
South Philadelphia Business Association Oldest Business Association in South Philadelphia – Chartered in 1897 To join as a member of the SPBA, please call: (215)-336-1108
P. O. Box 31425• Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax) Executive Board- President: Daniel Olivieri Treasurer: Jackie Fitzpatrick
Board Members
Vice-President: Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary: Gaeton Tavella
John Savarese Mark Rago
Louis Galdo Dr. Jim Moylan Vince Giusini Bill Ciampitti
Stock Up For Holiday Feasts At Esposito’s Meats by Maria Merlino When entering the Esposito’s Meats store on 1001 S. 9th Street, the bright, cool, clean atmosphere is the first thing you notice. Beautiful cuts of meats are displayed on a background of brown butcher paper in spotless refrigerator units. White-coated butchers are happy to serve you your carnivorous needs. Eyeing an exhibit of lamb chops, Richard Haitch has been a long-time customer of Esposito’s. “I don’t live in the neighborhood, but I come down here twice a week to buy meat. I’m very satisfied with the
CUSTOMER Richard Haitch picks lamb chops he’ll be enjoying soon. Photos by Maria Merlino
quality. You get more meat for the money,” he said. In its third generation, the Esposito’s operation has grown from the storefront butcher shop of Attilio Esposito in 1911 to be proudly regarded as a Philly institution. Their USDA inspected facility has had an external audit rating of 95% or higher over the last five years. The GMP and HACCP procedures ensure
their strict standards remain intact. GMP or Good Manufacturing Practice is a system to ensure that products meet food-safety, quality and legal requirements. HACCP or Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Point is a systematic program to assure food safety. For more information go to www.espositosmeats.com.
Hope For Vacant Bldg On Christian Street? VACANT building on 820 Christian Street.
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Story, photo by Naked Philly
When US Construction built 19 new homes on the 800 block of Christian Street a few years back, we took the opportunity to point out 820 Christian Street, wondering whether the project next door would spur the owners of the vacant property to do something with it. For whatever reason, when there was a big parking lot next door, the vacancy didn’t bother us as much. Ever since the homes were built, though, we’ve shaken our fists every time we passed by. A couple weeks back, we passed by the property and noticed a sign in one of the windows, indicating it's available. And we made a mental note to come back, take a picture and call the number to get the lowdown. We visited the property yesterday, seeking the sign, and discovered it’s gone. Perhaps this means the owners have decided against selling it. Or else they found a buyer (or a tenant) quickly. The property is really interesting, stretching all the way to Montrose Street. The building rises three stories on Christian Street but it’s only one story on Montrose, where it's used as a garage. Surely the building was constructed for some other purpose but we couldn’t tell you anything about its history. Can you? Email cassie@phillyrecord.com with any info or story ideas.
The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($20 per year Optional Subscription) The Philadelphia Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila., PA 19147 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 1323 S. Broad Street Phila. PA 19147 215-755-2000 Fax: 215-689-4099 Editor@phillyrecord.com EDITORIAL STAFF Editor & Publisher: James Tayoun, Sr. Managing Editor: Anthony West Assistant Editor: Cassie Hepler Editorial Staff: Joe Sbaraglia Out & About Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires CitiLife Editor: Ruth R. Russell Veteran Affairs Dan Sickman: Creative Director & Editorial Cartoonist: Ron Taylor Photographers: Leona Dixon Wendell Douglas Harry Leech Bill Myers Bookkeeping: Haifa Hanna Webmaster: Sana Muaddi-Dows Advert. Director: John David Controller: John David Account Exec: Bill Myers Circulation: Steve Marsico Yousef Maaddi The Public Record welcomes news and photographs about your accomplishments and achievements which should be shared with the rest of the community. Contact us by phone, fax, e-mail or by dropping us a note in the mail. If you mail a news item, please include your name, address and daytime telephone number so we can verify the information you provided us, if necessary. The Public Record reserves the right to edit all news items and letters for grammar, clarity and brevity. ©1999-2015 by the Philadelphia Public Record. No reproduction or use of the material herein may be made without the permission of the publisher. The Philadelphia Public Record will assume no obligation (other than the cancellation of charges for the actual space occupied) for accidental errors in advertisements, but we will be glad to furnish a signed letter to the buying public.
Panepinto Jewelers
Ron Panepinto Karen Panepinto-Minarcik 702 Sansom St. • Phila., PA 19106 Tel: 215-923-1980 email: info@panepintojewelers.com www.PanepintoJewelers.com
Vol.Vol. VIIVIII No.No. 3 (Issue 52 (Issue 328)429)
Jim Stevenson 9371 ROOSEVELT BLVD. PHILA., PA 19114
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’Tis The Reason For The Season
January December 16,24, 2014 2015
Spruce Up Your ’Hood, Get $$$ The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, with funding support from the Philadelphia Dept. of Commerce, will award Neighborhood Placemaker Grants ranging from $15 to $25K to Philly-based organizations with exciting ideas to beautify their neighborhoods. Applicants need to share their ideas by Feb. 12. An information session
will be held on Jan. 6 at 5 p.m. at PHS headquarters, 100 N. 20th Street. Attendance is not required for submitting a Letter of Interest. LOI’s will be accepted online starting Dec. 22. PHS is asking how can you make your neighborhood uniquely beautiful through horticulture? For more info, please email neighborhood@pennhort.org.
Kenyatta Gives Back
COUNCILMAN Kenyatta Johnson and his staff deals with cold weather to help families in need at this very special time of year for family and loved ones on Point Breeze Avenue. Throughout this holiday season, there were so many turkey giveaways. This one was located on 1600 block of Point Breeze Avenue. Photo by Leona Dixon
DEACON JIM STEWART, Cookie Rita and philanthropist Mikki Capo of Capo Coins on E. Passyunk Avenue held the lighting ceremony at the St. Joseph’s Courtyard on the 21st Street side of St. Edmond Church at 21st & Snyder Avenue. What you see here and more was all donated by Mikki. She is a huge supporter of 100-yearold church. “There is too much history in at St. Edmond’s for me not to get involved. Christmas is the most joyful time of the year. I hope everyone can get to see the lights and maybe take in Mass,” Photo by Maria Merlino she said.
Wills & Estate Probate • Home & Business Property • Damage Claims • Personal Injury • Family & Criminal Matters
www. MirarchiLegal.Com Emergency Call-Back Consultations Available Around the Clock Seven Days Per Week
215-545-5090
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
The Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 19
Page 5
Wishing You A Joyous Holiday Season And A Prosperous And Healthy New Year! From The Officers And Members Of
Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association Local Union No. 19 1301 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia PA 19147
215.952.1999
President/Business Manager: Gary J. Masino Assistant Business Manager: Bryan J. Bush Financial Secretary/Treasurer: Thomas J. Klingenberg Recording Secretary: Joseph S. Frick
Vice President: James Harding, Jr.
Organizers: Bryon A. Blum • Thomas Bush • William C. Dorward • Michael J. Ford • Luke Gordon • Howard VanBuren, III Executive board: Brian Cummiskey • Todd Farally • Jade Fladger • Robert Gadsby • Jeremy +unsicker, III • Erik Koszalinski • James Keenan, III Keith Meyer • William J. Pfeiffer • Peter Pollitt • James Sexton, Jr. • Michael Sullivan • Joshua Turner Trustees Robert Klingenberg, Jr. • Dennis Siravo • Gerald Zimmerman, Jr. Dispatcher: Joseph D. Rispo • Conductor: Jeffrey P. Block • Warden: John Silcox, III
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Business Agents: Fred N. Braker • Charles J. Burkert • Gary J. &ooper • Louis J. Coppolino, Sr. • Patrick F. Doyle Walter )ULHGULFK • Gerard E. Gontz • Michael Guinan • Anthony Iannucci, III • Kenneth Woods
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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OUR OPINION
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Merry Christmas To All And Thanks To Those Who Make It So! Our front page wraparound tried to give credit where it is due to individuals and organizations who every year do their best to bring joy to underprivileged families, particularly at major family holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. With the many efforts captured in our pages to bring needed food, clothing, and toys to families who are truly doing without these necessities, there are more we have not been able to cover and bring to you. In short, almost every union local in this city makes such efforts, especially the major ones such as the Carpenters, Laborers, Engineers, Electricians and other members of the Building Trades. In addition, we see almost every elected official leading such efforts in their districts as well as elsewhere in the city. Many of them we miss due to the conflicting times they conduct these warm-hearted interventions to bring joy and comfort to needed families. We thank them all!
Why Our Dailies Are Failing
Dec. 28- Kwanzaa Program at Audenreid HS, 31st & Tasker Sts., 6 p.m. Adults $10, children $5. For info (215) 3850214. Dec. 29- New Year’s Celebration at home of Henry Nicholas, Local 1199C, 15th & Jefferson Sts., starting 3 p.m. Dec. 29- Sean Stevens for State Rep campaign hosts Fundraiser at Black Sheep Pub, 247 S. 17th St., 5-7 p.m. For more info (215) 9397190. Dec. 29- State Rep candidate
Marisa Piccarreto hosts Fundraiser at Cathoula’s, 775 S. Front St., 6 p.m. Dec. 29- Republicans host Happy Hour at United Republican Cl., 3156 Frankford Ave., 6-9 p.m. $2 drinks; free food, desserts, parking. 50/50, raffle, ugly-sweater contest. Come in your ugly sweaters! Jan. 4- Inaugural Ceremonies for new Administration, City Council and Jurists. Jan. 7- Derek Green hosts Inaugural Celebration at 1925 Lounge, 111 S. 17th St., 6-8 p.m. Tickets $250. RSVP Kelly Bauer (610) 297-3754 or kbauer@advantagepep.com. Jan. 9- Six Italian Societies sponsor Evening with cocktails, dinner and live music for
Editorial Warning!! Letters from an unidentified informant without any contact information cannot be considered for publication, no matter how valid their contents.
State Sen. John Sabatina, Jr. at Townsend Rm., 12273 Townsend Rd. 7-11 p.m. Tickets $75. Jan 9- State Rep. Vanessa Brown hosts Youth Trip to State Farm Show, leaves from 1435 W. 52nd St. 8 a.m., leaves Harrisburg 2 p.m. Tickets $10, Contact her office (215) 879-6615. Jan. 14- Cocktails Celebration Reception & Buffet benefits State Rep. John Taylor at La Veranda, 30 N. Columbus Blvd., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sponsorship levels $1,000$25,000, tickets $250. Checks payable to “Committee to ReElect John Taylor”, J. Tsucalas, 1600 Walnut St., #305, Phila., PA 19103. For info (215) 668-7211 or
jct.uta@att.net. Jan. 18- Martin Luther King Day of Service Feb. 3- Four Chaplains hosts Awards Dinner at FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Rd., Cocktails 5:30 p.m., Dinner 6 p.m. Honoring Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams and Thomas Manion. For info www.fourchaplains.org. Feb. 28- Fundraiser for 2016 St. Patrick’s Parade hosted by Mary Frances Fogg at FOP Heroes Ha., 11630 Caroline Rd. Apr. 23- State Rep. Mark Cohen hosts Autism Expo at St. William Parish, 6238 Rising Sun Ave., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Lunch provided. RSVP Deb Whittingham (215) 342-2167.
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Their editors and publishers just don’t get it! This week, another Daily News editorial urging voters to do away with the City’s two key row offices makes it more obvious than ever they do not understand the working of City government. They urge the courts take over the duties of the City Commissioners and the Sheriff. Are they on this planet or in a Disneyland of their imagination? Trust the courts? That institution is almost impossible to audit, to investigate, to rate, to hold accountable in its ability to efficiently handle any responsibility, save conducting trials and hearings. The court has made a sham of Traffic Court hearings. Get a moving violation, don’t bother going to appeal your case. You’ll be found guilty most times. What the two dailies do not understand is the scope of the responsibility of both row offices. There are dedicated civil-service employees who thoroughly know their duties. In one are trained deputies who know their efforts are all that enable the courts safely to conduct their hearings. The Sheriff’s office, under Jewell Williams, now runs like clockwork. Everything is transparent, access is easy, and citizens can access any and all information they need or want to know. Why no notice from the dailies about this 180 degree turnaround? We defy anyone in the courts with sound judgement to tell us they are willing to ensure voters get to do their duty without snafus. Why have the dailies failed to note the lack of complaints filed on Election Day, other than individuals filing complaints against other individuals – but never about their votes failing to be recorded? We’ve had an epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases and mismanagement in various branches of this government. Where is the coverage? Instead we get daily puff and commercial promotions from both dailies. There once was a time this was not done, and their investigations deserved plaudits. But now no longer. It is easy for us to understand why they may still have some readership, but even that audience dismisses their content.
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KATHLEEN KANE has been sued again. I almost feel sorry for her – almost. On Monday she was sued in federal court by two current Attorney General investigators, MICHAEL CARLSON and MICHAEL CRANGA. Last week, Kane and her CHIEF OF STAFF JONATHAN DUECKER were sued by former AG Office’s head of human resources GEORGE MOORE. Moore claims Kane fired him in retaliation for his recommended that Duecker be terminated for making unwanted sexual advances on female employees. Both Carlson and Cranga claim they were passed over for promotions in retaliation for refusing to testifying per her instructions before a grand jury in the now-infamous sting operation that caught six Philadelphia elected officials on tape taking illegal contributions. Kane claimed she deep-sixed the investigations because she claimed it was racially motivated, and wanted Carlson and Cranga to support that allegation. They did not. Previously AG investigator CLAUDE THOMAS sued Kane for defamation owing to her accusations about the racial targeting in the sting. Thomas, who is African American, claims Kane’s inaccurate depiction of his involvement in cases has damaged him professionally and personally. Four of the officials taking the illegal donations pled guilty. Last week, former STATE REP. LOUISE BISHOP pled no contest. Initially Bishop planned to fight the charges, asserting Kane’s claim that she was racially profiled. Shortly after Bishop pled, her attorney, CHARLES PERUTO, JR., apologized for wasting the Court’s time and acknowledged the investigation was not racially motivated. Carlson and Cranga’s case also asserts “Kane and Duecker sought to hurt their reputations by implicating them in a sensationalized email scandal, while shielding others, including Ms. Kane’s sister, from the reputational harm that resulted.” Kane has been justly criticized for her piecemeal public release of the exchanges of pornographic materials between AG staff, jurists and other attorneys. On Dec. 1, she announced she has appointed a special prosecutor, former Maryland AG DOUGLAS GANSLER, to look into the pornography and other inappropriate email ex(Cont. Page 17)
I’ve tried to stay away from addressing the fact the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has gone without a budget for roughly 48% of 2015. Why? Because it’s (a) too depressing and (b) too easy to be snarky about. You have all of these really intelligent (!), really well paid people who can’t come up with a plan to pay for what the Commonwealth needs to pay for?! Really?! Apparently, the Republicans that control the House and Senate in Harrisburg have decided they’re going to treat new Governor Tom Wolf the same way they treated Gov. Tom Corbett when it comes to the budget. Maybe they just don’t dig guys named Tom. My understanding is the problem lies in how to replace the much-needed education funding that’s been cut out of the Commonwealth’s budget. Wolf thinks that money should come in the form of taxes paid by Marcellus Shale drillers. He campaigned on it even. And when you consider that Pennsylvania is the only state where drillers get to drill tax-free (tossing a few bucks in impact fees to municipalities doesn’t count), getting more money from folks whose livelihood could cause your water to catch fire makes sense to me. The Republicans in the House and Senate see it differently. They want to privatize the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, an obsession I’ve never quite understood. They want to “reform” pensions. Now I put “reform” in quotes because pension reform never seems to include, well, legislators. But it does include teachers. Go figure. They were also talking about raising the sales tax and the income tax. And Wolf was willing to go along with some of this stuff, which would have made him really popular with the folks who hoped Pennsylvanians would finally get their fair share from Marcellus Shale. But while the Senate and Wolf have managed to get on the same page, the House is doing its best imitation of the Federal House of Representatives. (I wonder who’s John Boehner in this scenario….) (Cont. Page 25)
Yo! By popular request, here we go again with this explanation of the Feast of Seven Fish. I do not claim to know the “official” explanation (if there is one) to the feast. This is what we remember about it. Grandpop Achille would say, “That was the way it has always been done and that was the way it was going to be done on that day ... period!” It is late afternoon on Christmas Eve; the thousand and one things that have to be done for Christmas are completed. Do you still feel like there is something missing in this joyous season? I always do. It seems the religious aspects of Christmas are being lost to crass commercialism. Like it or not, Christmas is a religious holiday. Through the years it has become a buying frenzy, with a never-ending list of items to get and things to do. Christmas traditions have been colored green as in $$$, and the real spirit of this day is being lost. The Italians and Italian American families realize it. We Italians are doing Christmas the Med-i-can way according to our means, but we have one tradition that nourishes the religious spirit as well as the body. It is called the Christmas Eve Fish Feast or the Feast of Seven Fish. This annual event is not as strictly structured as the Jewish Seder, nor does it have any rules of religious conduct or sanctions. It is simply a wonderful tradition that gives a little meaning to Christmas and Christianity. On Christmas Eve evening, we eagerly awaited the final preparation of the seven-fish feast. It took a lot of cooking by the ladies to get everything to the table at the same time. Everyone pitched in and helped, as we were anxious to enjoy this feast. As the name implies, there were seven courses of fish served. The type of fish and the manner of preparation varied, but I will try to explain the significance of course. The first course was any type of shellfish. Only the poor ate them in the days of Christ. Christians in those times were the poor. Baccalà is codfish and is the next course. Baccalà is filleted and salt-cured to preserve it, (Cont. Page 25)
Former STATE SEN. BOB ROVNER’S holiday party was a smashing success and drew a number of notable political figures. Former DISTRICT ATTORNEY LYNNE ABRAHAM dined with STATE SEN. ANTHONY WILLIAMS and his lovely wife SHARI. Former COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO and his lovely wife chatted with STATE SENS. LARRY FARNESE and JOHN SABATINA. LT. GOV. MIKE STACK was also on hand to help the Rovners ring in the holiday season. Financial advisor WALT SCHWENK and his striking wife MARYANN enjoyed spending time with philanthropist COOKIE ANASTASIA and JUDGE FELICE STACK and her friend LOU FRANGIPANI. JUDGE GENE MAIER hung with his pals JUDGE SANDY MOSS and her husband BILL DEAN. Lt. Gov. Stack hosted a party for his own 58th Ward. Among the VIPs was Republican COUNCILMAN-ELECT AL TAUBENBERGER. Even though Taubenberger is a longtime Republican politico, he and Stack have worked together on Northeast Philadelphia business issues for many years. Also on hand was City Controller the great JONATHAN SAIDEL, powerful Northeast 66B WARD LEADER MIKE McALEER, and 66B WARD CHAIRMAN JOHN DelRICCI and his beautiful wife SARAH, a former State Rep candidate. State Sen. Sabatina was also on hand and was appreciated by the throngs of party-goers for his down-to-earth persona and holiday cheer. 58TH WARD CHAIR MIKE KATES was seen hanging out with none other than Santa Claus. Also on hand were well-known political operative and 58TH WARD COMMITTEEMAN TOM NARDI and former Stack Senate CHIEF OF STAFF CYNTHIA MARELIA. What a fiasco the entire Porngate saga is. Now Supreme Court JUSTICE J. MICHAEL EAKIN is pleading to hold onto his position. He was in tears before the disciplinary board of the Supreme Court this week. And Philadelphia DISTRICT ATTORNEY SETH WILLIAMS continues to be under pressure to suspend several of his deputies who have been (Cont. Page 27)
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
SANTA CLAUS gets his gift request from this youngster, one of over 100 who annually are gifted through courtesy of Pacifico Ford, whose ownership also presents well over $25,000 yearly in scholarships to high-school students.
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Doing What Comes Naturally To Pacifico
MARIE PACIFICO is all smiles as she escorts another family to Santa Claus at annual Christmas Party for needy and deserving youngsters.
Representative
Maria P.Donatucci
Wishing All
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173rd Legislative District 3294 Red Lion Rd. • Philadelphia PA 19114 Phone: 215-281-3414 • Fax: 215-281-3418
Merry Christmas And Happy New Year
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Rep. Mike Driscoll
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SHERIFF Jewell Williams welcomes Barbara Grant and Donald Townes to Office’s annual Christmas, celebrated this year at Galdo’s.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
ENJOYING Christmas were members of Sheriff Jewell Williams’ Office who gathered at Galdo’s last Saturday evening. Seen here with Sheriff Williams are members of his office Joe Blake and Sharif Street. With them is April Street.
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Sheriff’s Staff Celebrates Christmas
GATHERING around their Sheriff to wish WISHING Sheriff Jewell Williams the best Jewell Williams Merry Christmas and Happy for Christmas are members of his staff and New Year were some of his staffers. their wives. Photo by Halston Kemp
Ron Donatucci Hosts Annual Christmas Party For Staff
Photo by Joe Stivala
SHARING Christmas joy are Rita Donatucci; Judge Matthew Carrafiello; Albert Frattali, Ironworkers District Council; Donatucci; Ward Leader Ann Brown; Tom Donatucci; Jim Photo by Joe Stivala Jenkins; and Albert Brown. ATTORNEY Michael Mattioni and Ward Leaders George Brooks, 47th, and Gary Williams, 32nd, join festivities with Hon. Ron Donatucci. Photo by Joe Stivala
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MARRIAGE License Unit of Register of Wills Office includes this lovely crew, always happy to serve those tying knots. They include Tiffany Nazuro; Lindsey Keenan; Donatucci; director Guy Sabella; and Dawn McKeown.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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Want To Be Democratic Convention Delegate? by Joe Shaheeli Interested in becoming a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this July? If so, State Party Chairman Marcel L. Groen has made it a possibility. Potential delegates need be registered Democrats, pledge their support to a specific candidate, and complete a form. For information, contact Corey Pellington at delegate2016@padems.com or write for a form to her at Democratic State Committee, 229 State Road, Harrisburg, PA 17101. In the meantime, the Democratic National Convention Committee is making its presence felt locally in a number of ways, this past week kick-
DCC Shares Christmas Lunch CONGRESSMAN and Party Chairman Bob Brady, right, hosted his DCC Staff for Christmas luncheon at Spring Garden headquarters, thanking them and forwarding his best wishes to Democratic Ward Leaders, committee people and elected officials. ing off its “Community Service Campaign Giving Back to Philadelphia”. For its first service project, the DNCC partnered with the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee at the Wissahickon
Boys & Girls Club to clean up and help prepare for the Club’s “Winter Wonderland Shop.” This historic Wissahickon Philadelphia Boys & Girls Club was founded by Germantown Quakers in the late 1800s, and was the first
Boys & Girls Club member to serve African American youth, providing educational and vocational programs. “What better way to break away from the hustle and bustle of planning for the Convention than to honor the spirit of the holiday season and working with this wonderful group of young people,” said Rev. Leah D. State Rep
Joanna E. McClinton 191st Leg. Dist.
State Senator
Larry Farnese First Senate District Tel. 215-952-3121 1802 S. Broad St.• Phila. PA 19145
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www.SenatorFarnese.com
Always Hard At Work for You!
Representative
Vanessa Lowery Brown 190th Legislative District
1435 N. 52nd St. Phila. PA 19131
(215) 879-6615
State Senator
Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District
2901 Island Ave. Suite 100 Philadelphia, PA 19153 (215) 492-2980 • Fax: (215) 492-2990
State Senator
JOHN P. SABATINA JR. Fifth Senate District 12361 Academy Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19154
215-281-2539 www.SenatorSabatina.com
6027 Ludlow St. Unit A Phila., PA 19139
T: (215) 748-6712 F: (215) 748-1687
Daughtry, CEO of the DNCC. “This service project is just one way to make good on our promise to support and give back to the Philadelphia community. We look forward to engaging with more Philadelphians across the city over the next few months through various community service projects.” “This Convention is not only about spotlighting Philadelphia, but it is also about giving back to our local communities and enabling the event to have a positive impact on residents here,” said Kevin Washo, executive director of the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee. “We are grateful to the Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club for inviting us into their space and look forward to working with similar organizations across the city in the months ahead.” Not only was the Wis-
Rep. Rosita
Youngblood 198th District 310 W. Chelten Ave. Phila PA 19148
P: 215-849-6426
sahickon Boys & Girls Club the first such African American club, it remained the only one into the early part of the 20th century. Of the 53 founding clubs from New England to California that came together in 1906 to form the Boys Club Federation, Wissahickon was the only one from a Black community. The historybreaking nature of the club did not stop there. The club broke through the gender line and became the Wissahickon Boys & Girls Club in 1981. Details on subsequent service projects will be announced in the coming months.
Scott Sworn In As Montco Youngest District Judge Gregory L. Scott, at 28, has become Montgomery County’s first African American District Judge and its youngest. (Cont. Page 15) Councilman
Mark
Squilla 1st District City Hall Room 332
215-686-3458/59
Given the furor over Democrat Attorney General Kathleen Kane’s tenure, Democrats calling for the Governor to have her step down, and Republicans realizing they could have an easy chance to take that seat in the 2016 election, GOP candidates were coming out of the woodwork. But that seems to be changing. State Rep. Todd Stephens (R-Montgomery), who was among the early entries, has dropped out of the race. The decision seemed to be motivated by the show of support for State Sen. John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) when Southeast Caucus Chairman Michael Meehan released the
New Wynnefield Senior Residences
COUNCILMAN Curtis Jones, Jr. led groundbreaking ceremony for Wynne Senior Residences, 51-unit apartment building for seniors on site of former Wynne Theater. City is investing over $3.4 million and project is receiving over $12.5 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credit Equity. From left are Jerry Murphy of WORC, Holly Glauser of Penna. Housing Financing Agency, Jones, Roger Jackson of Congressman Fattah’s Office, State Sen. Vincent Hughes, Debbie McColloch of OHCD, Morgan Cephas of Councilman Jones’ Office, Kimmel Cameron of Hudson Housing Capital and Naz Sabree of Commerce Dept.
PROUDLY MANAGING PENNSYLVANIA’S INTERNATIONAL SEAPORT
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Republicans Smell Pa. Atty. Gen. Seat
results of straw polls he commissioned in Southeastern Pennsylvania counties. Shortly afterward, Rafferty won straw polls among the Southwest and Northwest Caucuses. According to the Rafferty campaign, they had held a 162-82 advantage in the fight for the party’s formal endorsement which was set to be voted on at their winter meeting in January. The caucuses’ results verified their claim. “With today’s votes, it’s (Cont. Page 24)
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(Cont. From Page 14) Since the tender age of 11 years, he has been in and around his community serving others in many positions relating to criminal justice, nonprofit organizations and public safety. He served as the first Junior Borough Councilman, a volunteer with the Norristown Fire Dept. and a volunteer EMT with the Plymouth Community Ambulance Association. Scott graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a Bachelors degree in business communications and earned a Master’s of Science in psychology (concentration in ODL) from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was sworn in this week in front of many loved ones, friends, neighbors and supporters, saying, “I am humbled and
excited at the opportunity my constituents have entrusted me. I look forward to running a court that is fair, transparent and where everyone leaves with their dignity intact.”
SINCE 1990
Philadelphia Regional Port Authority
State Rep.
Mark B.
COHEN 215-342-6340 202nd Legislative District
7012 Castor Ave. Philadelphia PA 19149
State Rep.
Donna Bullock 195th Leg. Dist. 2839 W. Girard Ave Phila, PA 19130 T: (215) 684-3738 F: (215) 235-4629
Donatucci
D-185th District 2115 W. Oregon Ave. Phila PA 19145 P: 215-468-1515 F: 215-952-1164
ROOM 134
City Hall 215-686-3464 State Rep.
Kevin J.
Boyle 172nd Dist. 7518 Frankford Ave. Phila., PA 19136
215-331-2600
John
Greenlee
Taylor
Room 506 City Hall P. 215-686-3446/7 F. 215-686-1927
(R) 177th Dist. 4725 Richmond St. Phila., PA 19137
215-744-2600 State Rep.
William Keller 184th District 1531 S. 2nd Street
215-271-9190
Chairman James T. McDermott, Jr. Executive Director
John F. Dempsey
Deputy Executive Director
Councilman Wm.
State Rep.
Gerard H. Sweeney
R EPRESENTATIVE
A NGEL C RUZ DISTRICT OFFICE
3503 ‘B’ St. 215-291-5643 Ready to Serve you
Administrative Offices: 3460 N. Delaware Ave. 2nd Fl., Phila., PA 19134 (215) 426-2600 • Fax (215) 426-6800 www.philaport.com
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The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority wishes the hard-working men and women in the port industry, and all of our loyal friends and supporters, a happy and healthy holiday season!
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Page 16
Would You Rate Mayor Nutter This Way? by Brett Mandel It must be a heckuva thing to be the Mayor of Philadelphia. You get to bask in the city’s collective pride leading the Phillies World Series victory parade and welcoming the Vicar of Jesus Christ to Philadelphia. But, you must hang your head bearing the full weight of civic shame when a four-year old innocent perishes weighing only 34 lb. under the watch of the Dept. of Human Services, and when a building collapse takes six lives as it exposes horrific failures in the Dept. of Licenses & Inspections. He aspired to serve based on the ideals embodied in the Oath of the Athenian Citizen and, in many ways, Mayor Michael Nutter transmits Philadelphia to his successor not only, not less, but greater and more beautiful than it was transmitted to him. While Nutter’s legacy will be discussed and debated as he leaves office, each consideration will be viewed through a particular lens. I pay close attention to how the city raises and spends its money, so before looking ahead to the next administration, I cast a glance at what candidate Nutter promised in the issue areas where I have focused much of my public advocacy. Let’s take a look at the mayor’s tenure based on the bar he set for himself. Candidate Nutter declared he would “reform the process by which the City budget is devised and debated in order to achieve greater levels of public participation and government performance.” Early in the Nutter Administration, there were some exciting efforts made to engage the public in budget deliberations and discussions. But it didn’t stick and recent budgets have been crafted behind closed doors with a bunker mentality. Last year, the mayor unveiled a nifty online tool to visualize how money would be spent in the proposed budget, but it was nowhere near as de-
tailed or as useful as the fully searchable, detailed-to-the-lastpenny Bulldog Budget a mildmannered candidate for City Controller created years ago. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “revolutionize the budgeting process by putting the focus on outputs not inputs.” You say you want a revolution, well you know, we are still building a budget the oldfashioned way and focusing on inputs. However, pursuant to legislation passed into law a few years ago, the city should be moving toward programbased budgeting. With old habits so hard to break, we’ll have to see if this revelation turns into the promised revolution. Promise (so far) unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “convene the stakeholders in an honest and cooperative effort to redesign the pension and health benefits for City employees in order to make them sustainable for all concerned.” There were some nice things said about addressing the City’s growing pension crisis and the growth of the cost of health benefits provided for employees, but not much done about it. Provisions in new contracts with the city’s unionized workers allow workers to voluntarily opt out of the traditional defined-benefits plan into a new defined-contributions plan, but not many (have any?) have entered the alternate system. Other negotiated changes could reduce future health costs, but those savings are dwarfed by the growing unfunded pension obligation. The pension mess is even more messy than it was eight years ago — Philadelphia’s pension fund is now less than half funded (it was just more than half funded when Nutter took office) with an unfunded liability of about $6 Billion. It’s just the next Mayor’s problem, now. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “sustain the sched-
uled reductions in the Wage Tax to a rate of 3.25% for both residents and non-residents by 2015” and “establish a certain schedule for the gradual elimination of the Gross Receipts portion of the Business Privilege Tax over a five-to-sevenyear period and the gradual reduction of the Net Income portion of the BPT to the current rate of the Wage Tax.” After the global economic turmoil early in his tenure turned Michael Nutter, tax cutter, into Taxmaster Mike, Mayor Nutter actually raised taxes during his years in office. Real Estate Taxes went up again and again and again. A “temporary” increase to the Sales Tax came and then never went away. Other taxes came and went up as well. At least the Business Privilege Tax is gone — actually, the tax remains, but the name is changed. At the end of Nutter’s term, the Wage Tax stands at 3.9102% for residents and 3.4828% for non-residents (it had been 4.2190%/3.7242% when Nutter took office), the Gross Receipts portion of the Business Income and Receipts Tax is 1.415 mills (unchanged from when Nutter took office) and the Net Income portion is 6.41% (down from 6.5% when Nutter took office). Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “support a revenueneutral move toward Full Value Assessment by the [Board of Revision of Taxes] for the purposes of the Real Property Tax matched by a proportional reduction in the millage rate by City Council.” After some foot-dragging and a nearly disastrous effort to use what would become known as the Actual Value Initiative to raise additional tax revenues for the City and School District, the Nutter administration finally completed a thorough and much-needed revenue-neutral reassessment of all city properties for tax purposes. Make no mistake; this was a very big deal and an accom-
plishment that had eluded Mayors for the better part of the last half century. For the first time in living memory, real-estate taxation is not criminally unfair. Still, while similar properties are now valued similarly, values must be further refined for even-better accuracy and it is not a good sign that the City has failed to keep up with legally mandated annual assessment adjustment after the massive revaluation. This was not easy and it was not perfect, but it was accomplished. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “support a fair and accurate reassessment of property in the City to current market value with the provision that safeguards be in place… that ensure no Philadelphian is forced to sell their home because of an increase in property taxes,” and that he would “propose and work with City Council to enact a homestead exemption that will exclude some fraction of assessed value from taxation for all property owners” and “propose and work with City Council to enact a cap and deferral plan for paying property taxes that will protect property owners from unreasonably large and rapid increases in their taxes.” Working with City Council, Mayor Nutter enacted a homestead exemption as well as other policy measures to soften the blow of the citywide reassessment. As a result, a large majority of city homeowners actually saw reduced Real Estate Tax bills after the completion of the Actual Value Initiative and only a small fraction saw their tax bills increase by a significant percentage. There have been no reports of any homeowners being forced to sell their homes due to the reassessment efforts. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “modify the 10-year Tax Abatement to encourage development beyond Center City and help provide relief for the City’s critical need for af-
fordable housing.” This policy initiative never moved forward and the abatement program is as it has been. Promise unfulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “present realistic estimates of the costs and funding sources of new proposals” and “base my budgets on a realistic estimate of future revenue.” To their credit, the Nutter number crunchers have been reasonably clear-eyed and straightforward with most of their bean counting. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “design a policy for issuing new municipal debt and stick to it.” That was his story and he is sticking to it. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “establish a Rainy Day Fund.” It took a few years to get it done, but Philadelphia finally joined most other sophisticated state and local governments
with a formal place to save for a rainy day. Promise fulfilled. Candidate Nutter declared he would “direct all agencies of City government to pursue non-local funding opportunities to bring additional resources to City priorities.” Consider them directed. There have been some happy stories to tell of agencies finding new funding opportunities (but we should build and broaden these successes). Promise fulfilled. Of course, Mayor Nutter scored successes or suffered setbacks in other areas as well. Any accounting of individual policy initiatives misses a more complete picture of a healthy forest for a focus on individual trees. There remains so much work to be done to make Philadelphia a preferred place to live, work, and visit. Thank you, Mayor Nutter, for your efforts. Best of luck, Mayor Kenney, continuing the work.
DA Williams Creates Pre-Trial Felony-Diversion Pilot Program District Attorney R. Seth Williams has launched a new pre-trial felony-diversion pilot program called ‘Future Forward’ to provide individuals who have been charged with a non-violent felony crime an alternative to incarceration. The program, first of its kind in the nation, is designed to increase access to educational opportunities and reduce recidivism. “We all know crime goes up when people can’t gain access to the classroom,” said Williams. “So we’re going to break that cycle by giving more of our city’s young men and women the opportunity to start fresh and reap the benefits that come from a post-secondary education, new life skills and a clean record for themselves and their families.” The pilot program is a partnership between the District Attorney’s Office and the Col-
lege and their Reentry Support Project of the Fox Rothschild Center for Law & Society with the support of the 1st Judicial District, the Defenders Association of Philadelphia, and Brown’s ShopRite. During the yearlong program, enrollees will earn a minimum of 24 credits at Community College of Philadelphia, complete lifeskills classes and engage in a student support group. Throughout the program, participants will also be assigned a case manager and have their progress monitored during regular status hearings before the Hon. Sheila Woods-Skipper. If they remain arrest free for one year after completing Future Forward, they will also have their record expunged. Eligible candidates must be 24 years of age, earned a highschool degree or equivalent GED, be charged with a nonviolent offense.
Hark, The Angels Sing!
CHAMPION track hurdler Nia Ali, with her TEAM cheerleaders from Eagles and Sixers son and mother, joined Councilman David Oh surrounded Councilman David Oh and TV at giant holiday party for children he spon- hostess Kysha Woods. Photos by Wendell Douglas sored at temple University Student Pavilion.
SEPTA Food Drive
STUDENT Pavilion was full of happy children at Councilman David Oh’s SEPTA General Mgr. Jeff Knueppel visited employees at SEPTA’s Frankford District to h o l i d a y thank them for their support of 2015 “Stop Hunger at Your Station” food drive. This year party. a record was set. Through food and monetary donations, 29,000 meals were donated to Philabundance and its member agencies. Since 2009, SEPTA customers and employees have contributed more than 214,000 meals to feed neighbors in need across SEPTA’s service area. TWO former Penna. House members gathered at home of retired State Rep. Camille “Bud” George and his wife Edna in Penna. hunting territory. Together with Thomas and David Heichel and David Wulderek, they welcomed former State Rep. and Congressman Michael “Ozzie” Myers, ANNUAL Christmas Party at St. Thomas 1st African Church in Overbrook hosted by Angel at right of his hosts. Tree of Life brought Christmas joy to children of incarcerated parents with presents they were anonymously sent to an- JUDGE JOSEPH WATERS had requested during year. Committee members include Father Martini Shaw, Father Another Philadelphia paper. She about his colleague Municipal gelo Wildgoose, Ricardo Bostic, Betty Stanley, Bertha Jackson, Gloria Thomas, Brenda BatJUDGE DAWN released more of Republican Court (Cont. From Page 10) tle, Cornelia Camp, Gwen Cottman, Linda Holmes, Loretta Ferguson and Kim SEGAL. Waters and Segal are Supreme Court JUSTICE Photos by Leona Dixon changes. Given that she beParis-Holmes. lieves the current charges MICHAEL EAKIN’S emails both Democrats. Segal had reBROTHERS against her were trumped up just around the time the fused to reopen a tax-delinOF HIRAM # by a group of white good old Supreme Court was consider- quency judgment of $5,000 5 Lodge Maboys out to get her over her re- ing suspending her law license. against Roca’s son. Waters apsons donated view of these emails, she The Pennsylvania Court of Ju- pears to have talked to Segal toys, gifts and should have appointed an inde- dicial Discipline on Tuesday who reversed her decision and served food. pendent prosecutor a while suspended Eakin from his judi- reopened the case. If Roca ago. Gansler plans to look at cial and administrative duties loses her job over this, she until the Court can have a for- may wish she had just given all of the emails. her son the $5000. It should be The initial list of email ex- mal trial. noted that Segal was suspended Eakin may lose his job for changers came out shortly beSISTERS OF fore the Nov 2014 election in inappropriate personal corre- from her duties earlier this SWING PHI which TOM CORBETT was spondence, but not for any ac- year after Waters pled guilty to SWING (Sorunning for reelection. That list tual judicial misconduct. attempting to influences cases cial Sorority) only included then-current and However, Democratic Com- and implicated Segal. Sadly, donated toys, former Corbett staffers. We mon Pleas Court JUDGE AN- roughly 80% of voters decided gifts and only found out about former GELES ROCA is in hot water to retain Segal in Nov. Judicial time. Photo by Democratic Supreme Court for interfering in a case involv- disciplinary court may do what Leona Dixon JUSTICE SEAMUS McCAF- ing her son. Apparently she the voters did not. Republican FERY’S involvement in Porn- was caught on tape complain- City Committee recommended gate after some of his emails ing to Municipal Court that she not be retained.
Keeping Christmas Meaning In Song
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
THOUGH they are singing Christmas chorales, these youngsters at St. Maron’s Church have their eyes turned towards door from which Santa Claus is expected to make an appearance.
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Oh Fêtes Kids At Temple
Gone Hunting
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Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell Brings Christmas Cheer To Shelter Families
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Page 18
C O U N C I L WOMAN Jannie Blackwell is congratulated by Councilman Mark Squilla at Convention Center where she was Santa Claus for 3,000 now living in City Shelters, feeding, entertaining, and giving all children presents.
EXPRESSIVE scope of what Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell brings together to host shelter families before Christmas Day with food, entertainment and gifts for children of all ages is glimpsed by this photo. TOYS, TOYS everywhere at Convention Center, where Jannie “Mrs. Santa Claus” Blackwell provided each child gifts geared to their ages at her annual Christmas dinner for shelter families. GREETING wheelchair guest, one of many, is Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, who hosted city’s shelter population at her annual Christmas holiday party at Convention Center.
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need in comfortable familiar setting. “The beauty of this is that we’re bringing lawyers in who want to help, yes, but we are taking them to places where their help is most needed. So we are not taking them into Center City, they are coming into Hunting Park.” This process allows clients to come into a place they know. A place they will feel natural. Moore’s and Hileman’s mutual respect and admiration for each other is evident. “He is very dedicated to his work. His story is very unique,” Moore says of Hileman. “She is a very special person,” Hileman says. “She has a special heart.” Volunteers are always welcome, even those individuals not of the Christian faith. “We thank God for volunteers,” Moore says. There are roughly 80 volunteer attorneys who lend their time to the clinic. The clinics operate with the idea of giving hope to the hopeless. It’s a job that never
Jaimee L. Moore runs out. “For us, it’s what we do all year long,” Moore says. CLCP began in 2002. It was spearheaded by cofounder Dennis Abrams, Esq. Abrams is senior trial partner with the Philadelphia medicalmalpractice firm of Lowenthal & Abrams, PC. He also sits as the Board of Directors as president of the CLCP. The first clinic operated at
the Salvation Army. Currently it connects seven clinics located throughout Philadelphia and Chester Counties. The clinics are strategically placed to help more-impoverished areas. The Ayuda Legal Clinic is located in the Hunting Park area of Philadelphia. The Carroll Park Legal Clinic, Salvation Army Legal Clinic in West Philadelphia, South Philadelphia Legal Clinic, Chester Legal Clinic, Germantown Legal Clinic, and Kensington Legal Clinic all operate on different days of the week. The CLCP has plans to move up to a total of 10 clinics in 2016. It is best for a potential client to review the CLCP website to find a clinic near them and what time that clinic operates. That website is http://www.clcphila.org/.
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Peter Hileman solely up to the client: “We don’t force clients to receive the spiritual aspects of our work. We don’t force them to sit for prayer. We don’t force them to take the gospel. We offer it to them. If they choose to take it, they do. If they don’t, they don’t. But I can’t remember having a client turning down prayer.” CLCP has many resources for clients because it is not a one-stop shop. Monopolization of the legal-aid field is not its objective. Their goal is to help out as many people as possible. This does not limit them from referring them to another organization for legal aid of referring them to another clergy that can better serve their needs. Moore, along with Peter Hileman, Esq., the executive director, are the two lawyers on staff. Hileman is a trial attorney with over 35 years of experience. Originally a Doylestown trial attorney, Hileman in his later years to
felt the call to move into Philadelphia and serve in the city. He had never lived in the city before. Hileman’s call to action comes from his connection to Christianity and his experience as an attorney. “I’m a Christian and I’m a lawyer. So lawyers are encouraged to do Pro bono work. It’s part of our obligation to give back to people who can’t afford legal services because lawyers are expensive. That was one of my motivations; if I can help, I wanted to help” he says. The Philadelphia area was an obvious choice for him. “As a Christian, I really felt the call to help, particularly in the city because the need is great,” Hileman says. He noticed a difference between helping people who can’t afford the legal services and with those that could afford it. The overall outreach plan is to reach as many people as possible in the neighborhoods and to allow them to get the legal service they
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
by Eldon Graham ’Tis the season for hope. It is that time of the year when the spirit of Christmas overwhelms individuals to give back to their community. But one organization gives back all year long. The Christian Legal Clinic of Philadelphia is a legal-aid organization designed to help people who live in struggling neighborhoods with litigation issues. The mission of the CLCP is a very simple one. As explained by Jaimee L. Moore Esq., the Legal Director of CLCP, “At the very core of what we do is: we seek to do justice with the love of God.” CLCP provides legal services such as, a free legal consultations, referrals, and pro bono work in certain cases but also provides a spiritual aspect in the form prayer as Christians. Both of these services are optional for anyone who wishes to seek counsel at the CLCP. CLCP is an excellent source of legal aid for people seeking expungements and wills, or coping with immigration, housing issues, family matters and more. Those seeking consultation do not need to be of Christian faith. All consultations are guaranteed at least one hour and are confidential. Consultations are best scheduled prior to meeting with an attorney. Moore explains how receiving spiritual services is
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CLCP Giving Lawful Hope To The Hopeless
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Prince Hall Masons, Sheriff Williams Bring Christmas To Youngsters Masons of Pennsylvania and Sheriff Jewell Williams hosted the 1st District Children’s Christmas Party at the Masonic Temple, 4301 N. Broad Street, Saturday. Santa Claus personally helped distribute toys to more than 150 children assisted by Sheriff Williams and elves who were Masons, members of the Eastern Star (the female branch of the organization) and Deputy Sheriff officers from the Office of the Sheriff of Philadelphia City & County’s Bike Unit, which also donated toys to the event. SHERIFF Jewell Williams, in sweater, is surrounded by elves who served food and helped Santa Claus deliver toys to needy youngsters at annual Prince Hall Grand Lodge headquarters.
SANTA CLAUS welcomes help from high-powered Masons at Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free Masons at 1st District’s annual Christmas Party for needy youngsters. With him, from left, are Sheriff Jewell Williams, President Isaac Goldman and RWJ Donald Jones.
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for a better and stronger community And promoting renaissance of North Broad St. Laborers’ District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and vicinity is comprised of four unions: Local 332, Samuel Staten, Jr., Vincent Primavera, Jr. Business Manager/Co-Chairman L.E.C.E.T. Co-Chairman Local 135, Daniel L. Woodall, Jr., Damian Lavelle Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 413, James Harper, Jr., Fred Chiarlanza Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Local 57, Walt Higgins Harry Hopkins Business Manager L.E.C.E.T. Management Trustee Laborers District Council, Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager.
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The Public Record • December 24, 2015
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Register of Wills
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Page 22
Bringing Crèche To Village PLEASED at Crèche display now being seen at Christmas Village on Love Park were Committee leaders Pat Stanton and Chairman John Kelly. Father Dennis Gill, of Cathedral Parish, presided over dedication. In The Court of Common Pleas Philadelphia County Civil Action – Law No. 150101723 Notice of Action in Mortgage Foreclosure PNC Bank, National Association, Successor by Merger to National City Bank, Successor by Merger to National City Mortgage Co., Plaintiff vs. The Unknown Heirs of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased & Danoise Narsice, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased, Defendant(s) To: The Unknown Heirs of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased & Danoise Narsice, Solely in Her Capacity as Heir of Fanilia Fabien, Deceased, Mortgagor And Real Owner, Defendant(s), whose last known address is 5864 North Marshall Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120. 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, PNC Bank, National Association, Successor by Merger to National City Bank, Successor by Merger to National City Mortgage Co., has filed a Mortgage Foreclosure Complaint endorsed with a notice to defend against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. 150101723, wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 5864 North Marshall Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120, 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 Assoc., 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 19106-1532, 215.627.1322.
New Waterfront Road Boon To River Wards Phase 1 of the Delaware Avenue Extension, a new roadway and trail project built along the Delaware Riverfront Greenway in Northeast Philadelphia is now open. The extension, connecting Port Richmond to Bridesburg, includes a 0.6-mile section of new roadway, a bridge over the Frankford Creek and a multi-use trail segment extending from Lewis Street to Orthodox Street. In addition to connecting the communities, the project provides a vital, direct route to and from I-95 for the industries situated north of Lewis Street, improving access for these waterfront businesses and relieving the Bridesburg community of large truck traffic on their neighborhood streets. The federally funded project, which cost $14.5 million, began in March 2014 and was designed by Urban Engineers, Inc., with Buckley Co., Inc.
performing the construction. The extension cuts through former industrial-park areas and other space and includes two 15-foot-wide road lanes bordered by a six-foot-wide sidewalk on the west side and a 10-foot to 12-foot-wide, multi-use asphalt trail on the east side. The project also includes significant new landscaping; storm-water inlets and pipes; street lights; and a new 160-foot-wide long bridge over Frankford Creek. Streets Commissioner David J. Perri noted, “The project has transformed access to the riverfront, creating a new route and a new destination that’s clean, green and safe for those who live, work and visit here.” The multi-use trail component of the Delaware Avenue Extension is part of the Circuit, a network of hundreds of miles of trails throughout a nine-county region in Pennsyl-
vania and South Jersey. The first phase of the project is 0.6 miles of a two-mile road that will eventually extend from Lewis Street to the Frankford Boat Launch and connect to I95. The second phase, set to begin in 2017 and be completed in 2018, will continue the ex-
tension of Delaware Avenue from north of Orthodox Street to Buckius Street. Also in development is a new 10-acre riverfront park in Bridesburg. Final park designs will be presented at a public community meeting on Dec. 16.
Pennsylvania Graduation Rate Tops National Average The National Center for Education Statistics announced Tuesday high school graduation rates hit a fouryear high of 82.3 percent in the 2013-14 school year — and Pennsylvania students fared even better at 85.3%. “Earning a high-school diploma is both an important achievement, as well as a necessary prerequisite for college and career readiness,” said State Dept. of Education Secretary Pedro Rivera. “There is still room for Pennsylvania
to make gains, especially in narrowing the gap in graduation rates among subgroups, but overall the Commonwealth’s students are measuring up to their peers nationally.” Certain cross-sections of students — including English language learners, those with disabilities and those whom are economically disadvantaged — also graduate at higher rates in Pennsylvania when compared with the national average.
Port Adds Mexican Shipping Traffic Terminal Operator Logistics Corp. and Philadelphia Regional Authority have secured
Holt the Port new
shipping service to the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal in South Philadelphia that will link directly with port opera-
PHA Gets $2.7 Million Jobs Grant Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-Phila.), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced the Philadelphia Housing Authority has been awarded $2.7 million from the US Dept. of Housing & Urban Development to offer new job-training programs for PHA residents. The federally-funded initiative will support residents of Philadelphia’s Raymond Rosen Apartments through locallybased approaches to job training and skills development. The program will target the 884 work-able residents who reside in PHA’s Raymond
Rosen complex. The competitive grant award is part of HUD’s Jobs Plus Pilot Program for Public Housing Agencies. Community partners involved in the Jobs Plus Pilot program will include the Joseph J Peters Institute, Mayor’s Office of Community Empowerment & Opportunity, Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, Center for Social Policy & Community Development, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Opening Opportunities for All, and Manpower.
tions on the Gulf of Mexico. SeaLand, the intra-Americas regional ocean carrier of the Maersk Group, is launching a new line in 2016, its “Atlantico” service, which will call the Mexican ports of Veracruz and Altamira before making a direct connection to the Packer Avenue Terminal in Philadelphia. The SeaLand Atlantico service will begin weekly calls to Packer Avenue starting Feb. 3, and continue with weekly calls between Mexico and Philadelphia. The Atlantico service offers an alternative transportation option for trade between the Gulf of Mexico and Eastern United States, which generally employs ground transportation on 95% of its volumes. This line will particularly benefit producers and exporters of perishable goods to the US by providing economies of scale, security
and reliability of an ocean service. Targeted commodities include goods such as avocados, lemons, tomatoes and commercial cargo. “We’re very excited about this new weekly service with Mexico,” said PRPA Chairman Jerry Sweeney. “It’s another example of the kinds of things that happen at the port when you have great publicprivate partnerships in place. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is proud to invest in its marine terminals and provide business support, which assists aggressive, savvy terminal operators like the Holts in bringing home a great piece of business like this one.” The new SeaLand Atlantico service will have the following port rotation schedule: Veracruz – Altamira – Philadelphia. For more information, please visit http://news.sealand.com/atlantico
VOLUNTEER college students Champagne Powell and Ashley Peebles get ready to help pass out brand-new bikes, games and dolls at Laborers’ Local 332 Hall on Ridge Avenue.
LABORERS’ ace operatives Cheryl Lee and Tamica BaconMoss are proud to gift unfortunate children with Barbie sets, balls and board games.
Rain-Soaked Carpenters Got This Tent Up In Time
THIS is hospitality tent which welcomed sports and charity VIPs at Toyota Tundra Food Drive at Citizens Bank. Setting it up in driving rain day before were union Carpenters who donated their services as Christmas gift.
LABORERS Tyrone Chestnut, John Welch and Allen Phillips are poised to keep all Phila.’s youngsters as warm as possible this winter season.
Squilla, Firefighters Warm Up
ONE GOOD thing after another! First it was pajama day at Sharswood ES in Whitman. Then, little Selena was given brand-new warm winter coat by Firefighters Local 22 President Andrew Thomas as Councilman Mark Squilla beams.
OPERATING ENGINEERS Local 542 volunteers pitched in at Citizens Bank Park to load holiday food supplies for needy families. Photo by Wendell Douglas
Photo by Wendell Douglas
OPERATING Engineers Local 542 members, led by Brian Jones and Dan Sullivan, seen in front row right, contributed equipment and time to helping Toyota Tundra Food Drive for Philabundance Food Bank to insure fruit and vegetables and other foods would be available for needy families this Christmas season.
www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Toyota Tundra, Carpenters, Engineers Help Philabundance
ORGANIZING food drive for Philabundance were its Exec. Dir. Glenn Bergman with sponsor Paul Muller, president of Tri-State Toyota, joined by cr4ew members Jessica Wyckoff, Liz Edelman, Emily Glick and Amanda White.
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
Laborers Local 332 Brought Christmas To Abused Children
Page 23
Loving Is The Key To This Merry Christmas
Page 24 The Public Record • December 24, 2015 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
(Cont. From Page 15) clear Sen. Rafferty will have the votes he needs to win the endorsement,” Stephens stated in a message to supporters and the press. “I want to congratulate him on his win, and thank him for a spirited contest for the endorsement. It’s clear that his four years of hard work preparing to run paid off.” He also thanked all the officials who endorsed him, a considerable list that included State Sen. Scott Wagner (R-York). In fact, earlier this month Stephens won the straw poll of the Republican Central Caucus. Nevertheless, Rafferty now appears to be the presumptive GOP nominee for AG. H represents the 44th Dist., which includes parts of Montgomery, Chester and Berks Counties. He served as a Deputy Attorney General where he worked in the Criminal Law Division prosecuting Medicaid fraud. His campaign has been endorsed by a number of influential organizations, including the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association, the Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police, the Pennsylvania Professional Firefighters Association and the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation. Undaunted is Allegheny County District Attorney Steven Zappala, Jr., who announced his campaign for Pennsylvania Attorney General in the Democratic primary. Considered one of the most-experienced lawyers and prosecutors to run for Pennsylvania’s top law enforcement position, Zappala vowed to restore confidence in the office of the Attorney General supporters in his home town of Pittsburgh. Zappala’s grandfather Frank was an Italian immigrant who put himself through the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Law. He became known as a neighborhood lawyer and was later elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Steve’s father, Stephen Zappala, Sr., served as the Chief Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. “In my family, the practice of law has always been about public service. My grandfather and father each served as great role models who believed as I do that practicing law is not about billing by the hour, but making sure the voices of regular people are heard by the courts and they are treated equally and fairly,” said Zappala – who is currently serving in his fifth term as DA. A corruption-buster who has taken on powerful corporate interests and politicians, Zappala won convictions against a sitting Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice and state legislators who abused the public trust. Former federal prosecutor, Philadelphia City Solicitor and mayoral candidate Ken Trujillo said, “Serving as Attorney General is serious business and requires a serious person like Steve Zappala who has not just practiced law for decades and prosecuted criminals, but understands the complexities of our criminaljustice system and has a passion for making it work equally for those who possess power as well as the least powerful people living in poverty throughout our city and the Commonwealth.” Congressman Robert Brady, chair of the Philadelphia Democratic City Committee, said, “Steve Zappala comes from a great family tradition of highly respected lawyers in Pennsylvania. I’ve known him for many years. Steve has done great work as Allegheny County’s District Attorney, and there is no question he is highly qualified to serve as Pennsylvania’s Attorney General.” Allegheny County labor leader Jack Shea said, “He’s the best DA we’ve ever had and no one would blame him if after five terms he chose to go earn top dollar at some law firm, but that’s just not what he’s ever been about. It’s been a long time since Pennsylva-
nia’s top lawyer actually put middle and working-class families first.”
Sims Endorsed For Congress Brian Sims’ campaign to represent the 2nd Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives has received the endorsement of the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, the nation’s largest resource for LGBT candidates. “Brian has been a staunch advocate for civil rights as an attorney, an advocate, and as a legislator in the Pennsylvania General Assembly,” said Aisha Moodie-Mills, President and CEO of the Victory Fund and Institute. “We know Brian will take his fight for equality to Washington, where he’ll be a tireless champion for the LGBT community.” “It is an honor to receive the endorsement of the Victory Fund,” said Representative Sims. “I’m running for Congress for the same reason I became a civil rights attorney and the same reason I ran for the State House; I want to fight for those who get left behind by our system and our government. I will be a relentless advocate for equality and opportunity for people of every race, gender, and sexual identity, and I am proud to have the support of the good people of the Victory Fund in that effort.” Brian Sims, who will run for both his State House seat, hopes to duplicate what Congressman Brendan Boyle did, win both seats in coming primary.
US Senate Primary Drawing Charges Braddock Mayor and Democratic Senate candidate John Fetterman is taking a hit for failing to file his income and financial asset reports on time, which he described as an oversight. He’s now three months late. Considering himself the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination to challenge US Sen. Pat Toomey is former and Joe Sestak. This week, he returned to the steps of the State Capitol because of the budget to again
distribute food, bedding, and supplies to people impacted by the crisis now in its sixth month as the State legislature’s recess approaches. “This is about people,” Sestak said as he once again unloaded pallets of basic necessities for distribution. “In the Navy, I distributed humanitarian aid from the Horn of Africa to the Middle East because of natural disasters, poverty, and hunger. I never expected there would be a need to do so when I returned home to Pennsylvania because of a political disaster.” Ten days earlier, Sestak had been at the capitol steps with Harrisburg’s own Downtown Daily Bread, Shalom House, and other community groups to hand out supplies to those in need. Admiral Sestak returned today with additional pallets of food, school supplies, blankets, and pillows as the Christmas holiday approaches and the winter weather continues to grow progressively colder. The State budget crisis – already clocking in at more than 170 days – is preventing federal dollars from being released for housing assistance programs, domestic abuse shelters, public education, and various other human-resources services that help working families. State law prohibits most federal funds from being distributed without a budget. “We’re talking about millions of federal dollars prevented from reaching public schools that educate our children, nonprofits that feed the hungry, organizations that provide shelter to the victims of domestic violence, and programs that help keep roofs over the heads of those in danger of losing their homes,” Sestak said.
Waxman Brings Labor Smarts To 182nd Race A labor-friendly political expert will enter the crowded Democratic primary in the 182nd Legislative Dist. Ben Waxman, currently press secretary for State Rep. Vincent Hughes (D-W. Phila.), will declare formally after New Year’s Day. He and
his wife live in a condominium at 22nd & Chestnut Streets; his parents have lived in Center City for decades. Waxman came to the labor movement through his mother, who was a union member. Legendary activist Tom Cronin (whom Waxman hails as an “old-school radical”) inspired him to become an organizer. He has done organizing work with the Musicians Union in New York City, and in Philadelphia with AFSCME District Council 47 and United Food & Commercial Workers. Waxman cut his teeth in journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, where he worked on the Daily Penn. He has a track record with the Daily News and WHYY. Philadelphia’s major problems need an experienced hand in the General Assembly, says Waxman. “Philadelphia is at a turning point. I remember what Center City was like in the ’90s; we have seen great changes. But there are very serious barriers that prevent Phila from moving in a positive direction and Harrisburg is right in the middle of them. On public transit, poverty, schools, we have gone as far as we can in the city. We need to work in Harrisburg and we need people who are focused on doing that job. “I am part of the progressive movement and the labor movement,” stated Waxman. “Both are my homes. I work as bridge between the two.” Waxman asserted he has $70,000 in the can already to fuel his campaign.
Eyes On Cephas For 192nd Dist. In the wake of State Rep. Louise Bishop’s (D-W. Phila.) resignation last week, a well-connected political pro from Overbrook appears poised to seek the vacant 192nd Legislative Dist. Seat. Morgan Cephas, deputy chief of staff for 4th Dist. Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., has been circulating around West Philadelphia with an eye toward running. If she does run, and is
elected, she would constitute the first protégée of Jones’ to take over a State Rep slot. That’s a common way for a City Council Member to build a personal city-state action team.
Primary Fight Expected For 195th Legislative Seat Newly elected 195th Legislative Dist. State Rep. Donna Bullock (D-N. Phila.) should expect a primary fight. Among most-prominent names mentioned is Judge Jimmy Moore. He is said to have strong support from Democratic City Committee Treasurer and 29th Ward Leader Frank Oliver, who retired from the seat which then went to State Rep. Michelle Brownlee.
Dems Settling On Rep. White Opponent It is reported the Democratic Caucus in the 170th Legislative Dist. expects to settle on Matthew Darragh, a committeeman in Ward 66B, as their candidate in next year’s general election. State Rep. Martina White (RNortheast) took that seat in a special election. The district is now considered a swing district, GOP in off-presidential elections and a Democratic in statewide elections. Philadelphia once had about a dozen such swing districts prior to Mayor Frank Rizzo’s declaration for Mayor, when Republican voters changed their registrations in big numbers to elect the then-Police Commissioner.
Pat Murphy Back In Army Former Congressman Pat Murphy has been confirmed by the US Senate as Under Secretary of the US Army, the number-2 civilian position and the chief management officer. He said, “I thank President Obama, Secretary Carter and Acting Secretary Fanning for their trust and confidence and also the United States Senate for their confirmation. Making sure we have the best Army possible to defend our nation, and that our brave warriors have every tactical and technical advantage over our enemies, is a mission I accept.”
The Public Record • December 24, 2015
(Cont. From Page 10) as there was no refrigeration in days of old. It was a common fish and a staple of all the people. Like baccalà, Christianity embraces the lives of all people. Stockfish was served next. It is also codfish, but it is sundried, like the sun that bore down on the workers in Christ’s time. Christ also labored in the heat of the sun to bring his message to the world. Squid or calamari is served next and its tentacles symbolize the extensive teaching of Christ. The eel is served next, as it symbolizes the speed with
as fresh as possible and everyone must eat some of each dish. Zia Maria would say, “What-za-mad-der, you sick or some-a-thing? Eat some more fish!” For the Med-i-cans, and anyone else that are curious and want to experience the feast, many good restaurants offer this specialty on Christmas Eve. Reservations are usually required as this is a very popular event. This traditional Italian feast is a wonderful way to get the family and friends together and really “catch” the Christmas (and Christian) spirit – not with a rod and reel, but with ties to our past, and a legacy to our future. So, as Zia Maria would say, “Mange!”
Page 25
WAFFLEMAN
which Christianity has spread throughout the world. Whiting or merluzzo was an abundant fish. It represents the abundance of love that Christ had for all mankind. Smelts are small fish and represent the fact that the smallest and humblest of God’s creatures are still loved by Christ. Also served in our home was broccoli rabe. These bitter greens remind us of the bitter times that Christ endured in his lifetime. These seven courses are served in many different recipes. Some are delicious and some are simply tasted, for they may not be one’s favorite food. In some homes they serve 13 fish courses; but seven or 13, the fish must be
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(Cont. From Page 10) So we near the end of the year with no budget. Meanwhile, school districts are taking out big loans to make payroll. Nonprofits that help seniors like Germantown’s Center In The Park are having to lay off workers vital to their mission. Heck, The School District of Philadelphia, a school district that the Commonwealth basically owns, may not be able to open some of its schools come Jan. 29. So now that it’s officially crazy, it might be time to say to our legislators that all we want for Christmas is a 2015 budget…. Especially since Gov. Wolf will be delivering his 2016 budget address in February. Next week, we look back on 2015, the year when politics became a reality show.
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The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 24, 2015
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(Cont. From Page 10) implicated in the scandal. At least for this week, KATHLEEN KANE has weathered the storm and not resigned from office. Who knows when this tornado will subside and how much destruction will be done? It has certainly been entertaining for the media but in the end is not good for anybody in Pennsylvania. As of this writing, Pennsylvania still has no State budget. All any of us want for Christmas is a passed budget that provides sufficient funding for schools. Teamsters sources tell CHS that DR. WILLIAM HITE and MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER overnighted their Christmas list pleading for more Philly school funding to Santa via UPS.
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The City of Philadelphia, Philadelphia International Airport, is requesting PROPOSALS for “AIRPORT ON CALL PROJECT/CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES.” All proposals are to be submitted to www.phila.gov/contracts/ by 5 pm JANUARY 25, 2016 and also as directed in the REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS. Interested firms are invited to download the rfp directly from http://www.phila.gov/contracts/ (click under “eContract Philly”).
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290 NOTICE OF STATED MEETING Notice is hereby given that the first Regular Stated Meeting of City Council for 2016 is scheduled for Monday, January 4, 2016 at 10:00 AM.. This Meeting will be held at the Academy of Music, Broad and Locust Streets, Philadelphia, PA. Michael A. Decker Chief Clerk
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3290
2016 NOTICE OF VACANT PROPERTY REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETINGS The Vacant Property Review Committee will meet in the Caucus Room, (Room 401, City Hall) from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the following dates: Tuesday, January 12, 2016 Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Tuesday, March 8, 2016 Tuesday, April 12, 2016 Tuesday, May 10, 2016 Tuesday, June 14, 2016 Tuesday, July 12, 2016 Tuesday, August 9, 2016 Tuesday, September 13, 2016 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 Tuesday, November 15, 2016 Tuesday, December 13, 2016 SUSIE D. JARMON, CHAIRWOMAN Vacant Property Review Committee
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QUESTION: Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Can I pay one debt better than others? ANSWER: Everyone with debts has at least one bill they’d like to pay, even if they can’t pay them all. So if you are already filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy and repaying some debt, why not treat some better than others? Sometimes that is allowed
and sometimes not. It’s a complicated issue because, at the heart of the Chapter 13 plan, there is a pool of money – the payments you make – which has to be divided among creditors. If one is paid more, others get less typically. So favoring one means discriminating against others. The law requires some discrimination. For example, if you aren’t paying everyone in full, then you typically have to provide for special “priority”
Sadly, there are only limited ways to do that because it gives you a “head start” not a “fresh start” at the end of your case, according to some. So arguing that your sister’s loan to you deserves special treatment because she’s been good to you probably won’t fly. But all is not lost. If paying the debt with special treatment is necessary to keep your case afloat or otherwise earning income, then it might be better received by the court. So some judges have allowed restitution and some business-related debts to be paid preferentially, recognizing that going to jail or having to close your business down is counterproductive to getting anyone paid well. Next Week’s Question: Can you use bankruptcy to get college transcripts?
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by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified
claims to be paid in full. These are things the government has a special interest in – paying the trustee, child support, recent taxes and so on. In other cases, like your home and car, the law often allows payment of these “secured” debts in preferential ways over your other debt because you need those assets to keep going (and putting the money into the pot each month!). But what if the debt is one you can’t wipe out at the end of the typical case, like student loans? Can you pay those in full and “short-change” the other debts you can wipe out?