Philadelphia Public Record by The Public Record

Vol. XVI No. 11

Issue 1050

March 12, 2020

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

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AND THEN THERE WAS The city’s first case of coronavirus – also known as COVID-19 – was confirmed on Tuesday. For more on the rapidly changing situation, including precautions, closures, testing and more, check out coverage inside. Photo by Shutterstock.

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Coronavirus Lands in Philadelphia

he Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced that the first case of COVID-19 coronavirus in Philadelphia has been identified. The case is an adult who was recently around people with the disease. The Health Department has already spoken to a number of people that were exposed and is recommending that they stay away from other people. The Health Department is also working with the patient to identify and reach out to anyone else who may have had close, personal contact with this person to recommend they isolate themselves from others for 14 days. The City continues to work closely with the health care community in the region, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to try to identify possible cases and work to prevent the spread. The best way to reduce your risk of becoming infected with, or spreading, COVID-19 coronavirus is to practice good hygiene: • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available • Avoid touching your eyes,

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nose or mouth with unwashed hands • Try to stay away from people who are visibly sick • Everyone should always cover their coughs and sneezes using a tissue or the crook of their elbow; wash your hands after using a tissue to wipe your nose or mouth • People who are sick should stay home from work or school until they are well If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your regular primary care provider, and let them know if you have been around someone who had COVID-19 coronavirus: • Fever • Cough • Difficulty breathing To keep up with this rapidly changing situation, visit the Health Department’s dedicated website on the coronavirus: phila.gov/ covid-19. In welcome news for Philadelphians, Gov. Tom Wolf announced this week that all major health insurers providing comprehensive medical coverage in the commonwealth will cover medically appropriate COVID-19 diagnostic testing and associated treatment for consumers and have committed to waive any cost-sharing for the testing. “First and foremost, the

commonwealth is prepared for and focused on mitigating COVID-19 in our state,” Gov. Wolf said. “Pennsylvania insurers proactively waiving costs associated with COVID-19 testing for consumers helps the commonwealth identify additional cases and gives us a better opportunity to increase our resources appropriately and better protect all Pennsylvanians. No Pennsylvanian should forego testing for any reason, if deemed medically necessary, including fear of what it might cost.” The Department of Insurance encourages patients to be aware of steps their insurance company is taking to increase access to necessary care related to COVID-19. Pennsylvania’s major health insurers, all of whom have committed to take this critical step, are Highmark, UPMC Health Plan, Geisinger, Independence BlueCross, Capital Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Pennsylvania Health & Wellness, and Oscar. This increased access to testing is especially critical as multiple commercial medical labs are in the process of implementing testing capabilities and some have begun to perform tests. This means labs will begin billing insurance for the

COVID-19 test as they would for any other diagnostic test. Up until now, testing has only been performed by the CDC or state labs, who have covered the cost of testing with public funds. "I’m pleased that Pennsylvania’s health insurance companies are stepping up to help fight the spread of COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus,” Insurance Commissioner Jessica Altman said. “Covering the costs associated with administering testing will ensure that consumer out-ofpocket costs do not serve as a barrier to the diagnoses and care of Pennsylvanians.” The department recognizes the critical role health insurers have in the public’s ability to access health care services, which could ultimately help decrease the spread of the virus. Consumers with excepted benefit policies, short-term, limited duration health insurance coverage, and/or health care sharing ministries need to understand these plans can have significant limitations on coverage and may not provide the same level of access. If any consumer has a question about their insurance policy, the department encourages them to contact their insurer or the department with any questions.

COVID-19 is currently not widespread in Pennsylvania. Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, Pennsylvanians should take the same steps that health care providers recommend to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses, including washing your hands, avoiding touching your face and covering coughs and sneezes. Public health officials are urging people who have symptoms to stay home and contact their doctors by phone, rather than showing up at a medical facility asking to be tested. The Insurance Department, in partnership with the departments of Health and Human Services, also developed an FAQ webpage – www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/Pages/Coronavirus-Insurance.aspx – that provides information and answers to common questions related to insurance coverage and COVID-19. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has a consumer services team available to answer questions about insurance coverage and benefits at (877) 8816388. PID may also provide assistance if a consumer receives an unexpected bill related to COVID-19, or other health care services.

see funding awarded to the Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site and the Girard College Foundation.” A grant for $40,000 – the maximum amount that any site, organization or foundation could receive – was awarded to Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, and a grant for $5,206 was awarded to Girard College Foundation. To be considered for a grant award, an eligible museum must have had an annual operating budget ex-

ceeding $100,000, excluding capital and in-kind services, and at least one full-time professional staff person. The two awards Bullock announced are among 153 that were approved on Wednesday, totaling $2 million, to eligible museums and official county historical societies from 58 Pennsylvania counties. State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) delivered a $50,000 development grant to the Mayfair

Community Development Corporation during the CDC’s executive board meeting last night. The state funding will support the acquisition and redevelopment of a vacant, debris-strewn lot on the 7300 block of Crispin St. The CDC plans to repurpose the lot into community park space as well as storage space for nonprofits and businesses that routinely present public events in and around the nearby major intersection of Cottman and

Frankford avenues. “I am pleased and excited to bring this public investment into Mayfair, where residents, businesses and organizations like the CDC are working hard to perpetuate and grow their strong sense of community spirit,” Senator Tartaglione said. “There always seems to be something big and fun happening in Mayfair. I look forward to taking part in their many festivals and celebrations for years to come.”

Bullock, Tartaglione Deliver Grants

tate Rep. Donna Bullock, D-Phila., announced today that more than $45,000 in cultural and historical grants through the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission have been awarded to the Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site and the Girard College Foundation for general operating support. “Our state museums and historical sites are treasures that benefit us all,” Bullock said. “I’m very happy to

The Philadelphia Public Record (PR-01) (ISSN 1938-856X) (USPS 1450) Published Weekly Requested Publication ($35 per year Optional Subscription) The South Philadelphia Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Periodical Postage Paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing office POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: The Public Record 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205 Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 755-2000 Fax: (215) 525-2818 editor@phillyrecord.com EDITORIAL STAFF In Memoriam:James Tayoun, Sr. Editor/Publisher: Greg Salisbury Managing Editor: Anthony West Everyday People Editor: Denise Clay Contributing Editor: Bonnie Squires Photographers: Leona Dixon

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Honor the Day of the Rope BY PA SEN, SHARIF STREET he Day of the Rope marks the 1887 execution by hanging of 20 Irishmen and mine laborers in response to their efforts to unionize and go on strike after a 20% cut in wages and horrendous working conditions in Pennsylvania. For four years I’ve been proud to offer a Unanimous Resolution in the PA Senate formally recognizing the Day of The Rope and the Molly Maguires – the name history gave them – and their sacrifice. When we think of the role of government – to protect our communities – we are reminded that the fight for social justice is cyclical; the historical battles we have won at times remain our contemporary struggles. It is important to bring awareness to the Molly Maguires, American heroes whose story still holds significance. History does not question that coal miners were treated menially and unfairly by coal mine owners, that miners and owners fought over the harsh working conditions. The Molly Maguires’ rejection of conditions that subverted their humanity and uprising helped lay the foundation for unions and, more specifically, the United Mine Workers of America, to galvanize and organize so that workers would benefit from safer working conditions and more regulated pay and hours. Yet in our own time, unions, in spite of their contributions to shaping the working environment for regular families via paid vacation, sick days, weekends off and many perks we give

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little thought, have been significantly undermined by the Supreme Court’s Janus decision. This has imperiled unions across America, ruling that “Fair Share” agreements, when applied to public sector workers, violate the First Amendment protections of free association and freedom of speech.” There is perspective in knowing how long and hard Americans have fought for the rights we often take for granted. The Molly Maguires also remind us of the socio-economic and political implications of their time, which, in some ways, parallels our own. This is evidenced in our failure to provide gainful and dignified employment to regular Americans or PA’s divestment from education and deferred maintenance that has led to toxic work and learning environments for our teachers and students. For millions of Americans, working 40 hours or more a week is not enough to support their families. In fact, one in nine U.S. workers are underpaid and impoverished despite working a 40-hour workweek year-round. After more than a decade with no increase in the federal minimum wage – the longest in U.S. history – there is now no place in America where those working full-time making the federal minimum wage can afford the basic essentials. Perhaps most importantly is the reality that the Molly Maguires have not yet received the objective mainstream scrutiny earned through their unconstitutional and almost extrajudicial prosecution

and execution driven by the private sector. It is a fact that the trials that led to their conviction, imprisonment and execution were initiated by a private corporation through a private, hired detective agency, followed by arrests by a private police force and then prosecution by coal company attorneys. Witnesses were intimidated to commit perjury against the defendants, entrapment was used to accumulate evidence and the jury selection ensured bigotry was a common denominator. As we work to reform our criminal justice system in Pennsylvania and celebrate our progress, the Molly Maguires are still one of the most shocking displays of undermining due process and constitutional rights in the commonwealth’s history. As Saint Patrick’s Day approaches and we celebrate Irish contributions to American society, we should never forget those who were imprisoned and those who ultimately gave their lives: James Boyle, Alexander Campbell, James Carroll, John Donahue, Michael J. Doyle, Thomas Duffy, Edward Kelly, Hugh McGehan, Thomas Munley, James Roarity, Dennis Donnelly, Thomas Fisher, Patrick Hester, John Kehoe, Peter McHugh and Patrick Tully, Martin Bergin, James McDonnell, Peter McManus and Charles Sharpe. I am proud to continue to offer a Unanimous Consent Resolution in the Senate marking 144th anniversary of The Day of the Rope in Pennsylvania and celebrating the contributions of the Molly Maguire’s to American society. God Bless.

Celebrate – and Honor – the Meaning of St. Patrick’s Day

EDITOR’S NOTE The announcment that the 250th annual Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade would be canceled due to ongoing concerns about the spread of the coronavirus in Philadelphia came too late for this edition of the Philadelphia Public Record. We regret the inconvenience. Please disregard all mentions of attending the parade on Sunday, March 15, as it regrettably will not happen. We join in lamenting this unprecedented development alongside the Irish American community and the fans of the parade.

So, on this St. Patrick’s Day, as we celebrate Irish culture with parades, spe-

cial foods, music, dancing, and wearing green, let’s take a moment to toast the

people of Ireland and what they have done to build America. Let’s all honor

their memory, by showing respect and compassion for the immigrants of today.

Compliments of

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God and belief in the American Dream, through hard work and determination, these immigrants and their descendants overcame poverty and discrimination to achieve great heights. Today, Irish Americans are very much part of the American mainstream. So much so, many Americans don’t even know this history. Today, like when Irish immigrants first came to America, the topic of immigration is a controversial one in our country. In fact, some of the same exact things that were said about the Irish are now said about today’s immigrants: “They’re lazy.” “They will change America.” “They have an alien religion.” The Irish, like so many subsequent waves of immigrants – including those that brought Italians, Poles, Jews, Chinese, and others to our shores – have had these slurs hurled at them. As we grapple with setting the right immigration laws and policies, it is instructive to remember this history. I have absolutely no doubt that the descendants of today’s immigrants will achieve the American Dream, just like the Irish immigrants who paved the way almost two centuries ago.

DANIEL H. GRACE Secretary-Treasurer ● Business Manager CHARLES T. WHITE President ANTHONY MASTROME Trustee

GLENN P. FULCHER Vice President BRIAN BURKE Trustee

JOHN O’ROURKE Recording Secretary WILLIAM PEAL III Trustee

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BY US REP. BRENDAN BOYLE t Patrick’s Day is always a fun and festive time in Philadelphia and throughout America. But it is important to take a moment and reflect on the Irish experience in America, and what it means to all of us as Americans, whether or not we have Irish ancestry. One of my favorite monuments in Philadelphia is the Irish Great Hunger Memorial (“An Gorta Mor”) that sits on Penn’s Landing. It is both beautiful and haunting. The Irish are America’s first major wave of immigrants. They were refugees, fleeing grinding poverty and hunger, brought about by British colonial occupation. When they arrived in America, they were not welcome. America at that time was largely an Anglo and Protestant country. In fact, the Irish immigrants were so strongly discriminated against that an entire political party was launched in the 1850s – The American Party, sometimes called the “Know Nothings” – dedicated to opposing Irish immigrants. A former President of the United States, Millard Fillmore, ran under the party’s banner. Yet with a strong faith in

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Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade

he Irish in Philadelphia first celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in 1771, five years before the Decla-

ration of Independence was signed! 2020 marks 250 continuous years of celebrations. The current parade, which is

hosted by the St. Patrick’s Day Observance Association, was incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in 1952.

Philadelphia’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a long-standing event of great civic pride for both the City of Phila-

delphia and the local Irish American community. The Annual Parade is held on the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day. If March 17th falls on a Sunday, the Parade Board has the option of having it on March 10th, since so many groups who march are already committed to other events. This year the parade is on Sunday March 15. The route begins at 16th & JFK Blvd., goes around City Hall to Market and east on Market to the review stand at 5th & Market. Channel 29 begins coverage at noon until 1:30. (Then it switches to NASCAR coverage.) At 1:30, TV coverage will continue on multiple channels, including Comcast 246. (Check the parade’s website at philadelphiastpatsparade. com for more information) This event is the largest Philadelphia Parade by number of participants – approximately 20,000. More than 200 groups are represented in the parade, including marching bands, dance groups, youth groups, and Irish associations. Thousands of spectators have lined the Parkway and now Market Street to enjoy the parade each year. Irish Americans have celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in Philadelphia since their arrival in America. George

Washington, a member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, actively encouraged Irish American patriots to join his Colonial army. Over the years, these celebrations reflected the times with several themes emerging; religious, patriotism honoring military service, remembrance of the political struggles in Ireland and a celebration of Irish culture. The common theme remains honoring St. Patrick’s work. This year the theme for this year’s parade is “250 Years of Faith, Family, Friendship and Heritage.” The Grand Marshal is Michael J. Bradley, Jr., a longtime leader in the Philadelphia-area Irish American community. Mike has been a key leader for the SPDOA for decades, including Parade director, board President and a man who steps up to get it done! The Ring of Honor for the 2020 parade includes some awesome Irish American men and women from the Delaware Valley. They are: Tom Dooley, John Brennan, Louie Bradley, Shiela Hess, Daniel Gallagher, Maureen Heather McGrory Lisowski, Michael Remshard, Sister Mary Ellen Tennity and Bill Whitman. Come join us this March 15th on Market Street for an afternoon of Irish pride! Joseph Fox, 1st VP SPDOA

Miss Mayo displays her Irish pride during last year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Photo by Tom Keenan.

AFFILIATED WITH AFL-CIO

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INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS

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LOCAL 542

FRANK BANKARD, ASSISTANT BUSINESS MANAGER ROBERT T. WALSH, REC. SECRETARY JAMES REILLEY, PRESIDENT JAMES JONES, TREASURER JAMES GITTENS, VICE PRESIDENT VINCENT ASCIONE, FINANCIAL SECRETARY BUSINESS AGENTS & EXECUTIVE BOARD

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ROBERT T. HEENAN, GENERAL VICE PRESIDENT BUSINESS MANAGER

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Philadelphia Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians

he Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Inc., have a great presence in the City of Philadelphia. With 600 plus members, we are an order of Irish Catholic ladies who practice our motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity. We have seven active divisions throughout Philadelphia. Our organization recently celebrated its 125th anniversary with a mass at Father Judge Chapel and a luncheon at one of our divisions. On 12/14/2019, the Philadelphia Hibernian Hunger Project (made up of both AOH and LAOH members) served 230 needy families Christmas Food Baskets. These families

were identified by a Hibernian request, local schools, churches and nonprofit community organizations. Families were served in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Delaware County and New Jersey. This yearly tradition is a tremendous effort of both the AOH & LAOH exemplifying our motto at Christmas for our families in need in our area and surrounding communities. Listed below are the divisions in the region: • Division #4 – St. Ita (Mayfair) • Division #17 – Queen Maeve (Far Northeast) • Division #25 – Mother Catherine McAuley (Krewstown) • Division #39 – St. Brigid

(Mayfair)

• Division

#61 – St. Katharine Drexel (Holmesburg) • Division #87 – Our Lady of Knock (Port Richmond) • Division #88 – Officer Danny Boyle (Somerton) Some of the activities our ladies participate in are as follows: Donation of supplies for Feast of Justice, Veterans Home visits, St. Mark’s cook-in, Collections for Ronald McDonald home, Blessing bags for Angels in Motion, Health Care Day, Breakfast for Ronald McDonald House, Food drives in November and December, The Maureen T.Lavin Scholarship Program,

Thanksgiving food baskets, Pegasus Riding Academy annual fundraiser, Hope Lodge Dinner, Food donations for St. Joan of Arc food pantry, Thanksgiving bags for Providence House,

Coat collection for Angels in Motion, Thanksgiving food collections and annual Christmas party at Visitation home. If you or anyone you know are interested in

finding out more about our organization and qualifications for membership, please check out our national website at: ladiesaoh.com Becky Puchalski LAOH County President

football games and Irish music was actually the precursor to the now-famous Irish Weekend. “The Irish Society” has supported many Irish political causes for freedom and human rights in Ireland as well as for Irish causes in Philadelphia and America. “The Irish Society” participated in meetings regarding human rights with Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams and Martin McGuiness arranged by Mike Doyle, joining Seamus Boyle at AOH #39 meeting victims of Collusion in Northern Ireland. “The Irish Society” banquets and annual toast to St. Patrick have become Philadelphia legends. The 2020 toast to St. Patrick is being held on Friday March

13th at noon at the FOP Lodge 5 in Northeast Philadelphia. “The Irish Society” continues strong with Joe Cleary as Executive Director, Jerry Connor Jr. as President, Tom Brady as First Vice-President, Patrick Ghegan as Second Vice President and Michelle Calvano as Recording Secretary. Board of Directors Mike Driscoll, Seamus Boyle, Ed Costello, Kathleen Doyle, Denise Chambers, Thomas Dooley. Our Honorary Directors are Joe Crosley, Anthony Gallagher and Dan Grace. For more information or to join the Irish Society, please visit "www.theirishsociety. com" or email: info@theirishsociety.com

Philadelphia Irish Society

nspired by the need to promote young Irish-Americans in the fields of business, labor and government including police and fire, law and judicial, “The Irish Society” was conceived in the fall of 1974. Since then the stories are many with “The Irish Society” donating to various charitable causes and personal cases. “The Irish Society” initiated the largest Irish picnic ever held in the Delaware Valley at Eden Hall in Torresdale, and hosted Irish football, boxing, hurling and numerous athletic events. Boxing at the Wildwood Convention Hall in 1980 with the teams from Canada, Ireland and the Delaware Valley with

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o memorialize the 150th anniversary of THE GREAT HUNGER (An Gorta Mor) inspired by the more than 44 million Americans who claim Irish Heritage, a dedicated group of individuals and organizations from the public and private sectors launched a 13-year campaign to promote, fund and construct a memorial to the victims and survivors of one of the most catastrophic events in the world’s history. The project was completed and dedicated on October 25, 2003. The Irish Memorial, a national monument, stands prominently at the southeast corner of Front and Chestnut Streets in Philadelphia. It is dedicated to the memory of more than one million innocent women, men and children who perished during the years 1845 to 1850 and to the millions of Irish immigrants who found here in the Unit-

ed States of America, the freedom, liberty and prosperity denied to their ancestors in Ireland. The centerpiece of this project is a monumental bronze sculpture set in a 1.75 acre dedicated park. The sculptor, Glenna Goodacre, was selected from an international group of over 100 artists. Glenna was best known for her stirring tribute to women who served in Vietnam, The Vietnam Veterans Women’s Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The Irish Memorial is a visual depiction of the cruel starvation which claimed one million Irish lives between 1845 and 1850; the harrowing journey to America taken by a million more; and the indomitable spirit of those who arrived safely and resolved to face the challenges of life in a new world. The design suggests the

multitudes with approximately 35 life-size figures arranged in clusters or vignettes. The monument, rectangular in shape, is made of bronze and is approximately 12 feet high, 30 feet long and 12 feet wide. The basic profile is a large “wedge” with the highest end facing west as anxious immigrants dock in America, full of hope and looking to the future, here they are greeted by one who has gone before. The east end portrays the lowest, blackest days, the depths of misery and starvation. The south side provides a view to grasp the full length and height of the memorial. The design in a true sculpture in the round, with engaging subjects and intriguing shapes seen from every angle. Suggestions of “ship” and “landscape” create an interesting design and continuity for the interactive groups in the sculpture. Figures are loosely modeled, vague and

fare of fellow Irish Catholics, and especially the clergy who risked immediate death to keep the Catholic Faith alive in occupied Ireland after the Penal Laws of 1691. These various secret societies were formed across the country to aid and comfort their people by whatever means available. Similarly, the AOH in America was founded at New York’s St. James Church on May 4, 1836 by men emulating these Irish societies, to protect the clergy and churches from the violent American Nativists who attacked Irish Catholic immigrants and Church property. In Philadelphia there were violent clashes against the Catholic church-

es and its clergy, especially in 1844 where St Michael’s at 2nd and Masters and St Augustine’s at 4th and Vine were gutted by anti-Irish Nativists mobs. In the Southwark section of Philadelphia, St Philip de Neri was the scene of a battle – yes, a battle – with guns and cannon and troops. At the same time the vast influx of Irish Immigrants fleeing Ireland’s Great Hunger in the late 1840s, prompted a growth in many Irish societies in the USA – the largest of which was, and continues to be, the AOH. Pennsylvania has over 5,600 member and nationally our membership is close to 50,000. Philadelphia has

ited by thousands of local, national and international visitors each year. It has hosted Supreme Court Justices, foreign leaders, senators, governors, mayors, judges, council members, but even more importantly just plain folks. We look forward to continuing this legacy as one of the centerpieces of the proposed cap over I-95. We invite everyone to experience the Irish Memorial themselves atour annual St. Patrick’s Day Commemoration, March 17th at 11 AM.

n March 25th, in City Hall courtroom 602, Municipal President Judge Patrick Dugan will preside over Hunger on Trial. A Mock Trial will be conducted to highlight the deaths of over a million Irish during what history calls The Irish Famine, during the 1800s, while the rest of Europe prospered. Irish call it An Gorta Mor (The Great Hunger). Many simply refer

to it as “the Irish Genocide”. The trial will focus on four parties: The British government, the British Landlords, the Irish Tenant Farmers and the Anglican Church. Bob Gessler has led the way in putting this “production” together in an effort to educate all about the Irish journey. Last year, the participants in the trial included attorneys Joe Capone, Jude Conroy, James McCarrie

II, Francis McCloskey and George Shotzbarger. Quinnipiac University Professor and expert on the An Gorta Mor, Christine Kinealy gave a brief historical introduction. Local high schools including St Joseph’s Prep and Hallahan have sat as jurors. Many of these same participants will be back this year. The Hunger on Trial is open to the public. It will start approximately 10 a.m.

13 AOH Divisions with a total of nearly 2,000 members. Philadelphia has led the way in many activities, charitable events and cultural awareness projects. Philadelphia AOH led in the building a Medal of Honor monument at the Medal of Honor Grove in Valley Forge. Philadelphia AOH also led the way in building the Commodore John Barry Gate at the US Naval Academy. (Barry was Irish born and is the “Father of the American Navy”) Philadelphia AOH, led by Bob Gessler, started the Hibernian Hunger Project in 2000 and it has spread nationally through the AOH, donating over 200,000 meals to the

needy. The divisions in Philly all support many charitable events throughout the year from Scholarships in the name of fallen police officer Danny Boyle to dinners in honor of the 20 AOH members who were hanged in Pennsylvania in 1870s. The Order seeks to aid the newly arrived Irish, both socially and economically. The many Divisions and club facilities located throughout the U.S. have traditionally been among the first to welcome new Irish immigrants. Here, the Irish culture – art, dance, music, and sports – are fostered and preserved. The newcomers can meet some of “their own” and are

introduced to the social atmosphere of the Irish-American community. The AOH has been at the forefront for issues concerning the Irish, such as; Immigration Reform; economic incentives; the human rights issues addressed in the MacBride Legislation; RightTo-Life; and a solution to the issues that divide Ireland. We invite all Catholics of Irish birth or descent to seek admittance to the FINEST Irish Catholic Organization in the World – all we would ask is for you to live our motto of: “Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity.” Brian Coleman, President Philadelphia County Board poncho2143@comcast.net

Irish Hunger Trials

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The Irish Memorial T

into a vibrant public space that is a tribute to the immigrant history of our people and the city itself. Though it has a special meaning for all with Irish descent, it touches everyone who approaches it, regardless of their ancestry. Besides presenting an important chapter in history and being a significant addition to Philadelphia’s great collection of public art, it is one of the few pieces created by a major female artist. The Irish Memorial is vis-

impressionistic, drawing the viewer closer to experience the detail expressed in the faces and gestures. This has been a 30+ year journey for our board, led by the vision of President Emeritus, Jim Coyne. As an organization, The Irish Memorial, Inc., on behalf of our community, raised and spent over $3.2 million to develop the Irish Memorial Park. The sculpture was less than a third of that cost. The remainder was spent on transforming a vacant and stark concrete site

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he Ancient Order of Hibernians is America’s oldest Irish Catholic Fraternal Organization founded concurrently in the coal-mining region of Pennsylvania and New York City in May 1836. The Order can trace its roots back to a series of similar societies that existed in Ireland for more than 300 years. Today, the AOH exists in America, Canada, Ireland, England, Wales, and Scotland. However, while the organizations share a common thread, the American AOH is a separate and much larger organization. The early Irish societies were born of a need in the mid-1500s to protect the wel-

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Ancient Order of Hibernians

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Brehon Law Society Marks 44 Years and Counting

Among its founders were: Attorneys Thomas White, Michael J. Stack, Jr.; Stephen P. Gallagher; Francis Moran; Michael McAllister; Joseph Murphy; Eugene Maier; Ronald Castile; Charles Cunningham; James Murray Lynn; and Judges James Cavanaugh; Joseph McCabe; Edward J. Blake; and President Judge Edward Bradley. Brehon

founders White, Maier, Lynn and Cunningham rose to the Bench. Many other Brehons who came after the founders have also become judges. Ronald Castille became the District Attorney of Philadelphia, a Republican candidate for Mayor and Chief Justice of Pennsylvania. Brehon Dennis O’Brien became Speaker of the

ince its inception in Philadelphia in 1771, the Society of The Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick has been an active, vibrant organization within the Irish community. Members meet quarterly in the Philadelphia area to conduct Society business, share fellowship and experiences of common heritage. The Society exists to promote Irish culture, education and provide aid. It performs these duties in the form of scholarships and benevolence, as well as through events and activi-

ties. The Society has always been non-denominational, welcoming male and female members from all religious backgrounds. Citizens of the United States of Irish lineage, over eighteen years of age and of good moral character are eligible for membership. The Mission of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick: “To aid and assist needy persons emigrating from Ireland to the United States, to improve the education and level of scholarship of those of Irish birth and lineage in the United States

and in Ireland by scholarships and grants; to make contributions to other worthy charitable and religious organizations and causes; appropriately to record and memorialize the exploits of the Irish in the United States, in Ireland and elsewhere; to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the people of Ireland and the United States.” Learn more about the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick by visiting friendlysons.com or following us on social media, @ FSSP_Phila.

The Irish American Business Chamber & Network, Inc. (IABCN) is a nonpartisan business organization promoting the interests of our members and the development of economic and educational relationships between the Greater Philadelphia Region and the Island of Ireland. We provide growth opportunities through a series of networking forums for business executives, helping them to exchange information and ideas on doing business with one another. These forums are hall-

marked by the appearance of C-suite executives, industry experts, Irish and American government officials, representatives from Irish and American economic agencies and Chambers of Commerce who share similar interests and goals. Twelve to fifteen Irish Chamber annual events range from informal networking receptions, to Member Spotlight events, to Executive Perspectives presentations by leading executives, annual Life Sciences Forums, our Women in Leadership series, as well

as events focused on the food and beverage industry. The Irish Chamber partners with Irish organizations throughout the Irish community in Philadelphia. The Irish Chamber maintains a scholarship at St. Joseph’s University (in the name of a founding board member who passed away in July of 2015), supporting higher education in the Philadelphia region. Learn more about the Irish Chamber – and join us today – by visiting iabcn. org or following us on social media, @IABCNPhila.

he Brehon Law Society was founded March 17, 1976 in Philadelphia. Its purpose was to foster intellectual fellowship, collegiality, and scholarship among Philadelphia lawyers and judges. A further aim was to assist and promote Brehon lawyers who wished to go on to high public office, especially the Bench.

Saluting the Friendly Sons

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House of Pennsylvania and Michael Stack, III became the Lt. Governor of Pennsylvania. The Brehon Law Society produced leaders of all three branches of the government of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. One of the Brehon Law Society’s greatest achievements was the formation of the Brehon Symposium on Trade and Investment between Ireland and Philadelphia. These symposia from 2011 through 2013 were supported at the highest levels of the Irish Government. An Taoiseach (The Prime Minister) Enda Kenny attended all three symposia in Ireland and Philadelphia. Panels included Supreme Court Justices from Ireland; many High Court judges; the Chief Justice of

Ohio; Philadelphia judges and many local and national ministers of government; business leaders and investors. It was a tremendous success. Businesses coalesced in laying the ground work for investment in both the United States and Ireland. Issues of law, taxation, and commerce were the focus of most of the discussions. The Brehon Law Society instituted an Intern program with the Law School at Griffith College, Ireland. For the past six years, Griffith Law students have come to the Philadelphia courts to learn about the American system of Justice. Approximately 35 students have benefited from this program. In the summer of 2020, the society are expect-

ing seven more students. Throughout every year since its inception the Brehon Law Society has created scion societies in our local law schools. We invite prominent speakers to our general meetings and are a certified program for continuing education. Our meetings are collegial and our fellowship is based on conviviality. You can read that as: fun. We are of Irish ancestry. That means anyone from any background who can trace their lineage to Ireland is welcome. We have classes of membership for non-lawyers, too. Please join us. Judge James Murray Lynn BrehonLawSociety.org (also Linkedin & Facebook Brehon Law Society)

Monument to Irish Honor

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Irish American Business

THE Irish Medal of Honor Monument at the Medal of Honor Grove in Valley Forge is a year-round destination at the national park. Seamus Boyle, former National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, is standing to the immediate left front row of monument. Standing with him are his fellow men of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Photo by Tom Keenan

Farnese Opens Campaign Office

A gala opening for the re-election campaign of PA Sen. Larry Farnese was well-attended at Broad and Mifflin Streets. Farnese (left) is supported by Mike Boyle, Esq., 5th Ward Leader: Bill Greenlee, 15th Ward Leader; PA Sen. Katie Muth; and Robert Brady, Party Chairman. Photos courtesy of John Brady

Matt Myers (l), Leader of Ward 39A was wished a happy birthday by Robert Brady, party Chairman and former Mayor John Street during the opening ceremony of the Farnese for Senate re-election office.

Political Directory For information on advertising in The Political Directory, please call Melissa Barrett: 215-755-2000 ext 5; email: Mbarrett@phillyrecord.com

Always Hard At Work for You!

Rep.Maria P.

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

State Senator

Anthony Hardy Williams 8th Senatorial District

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

tained in Council’s plan. Clarke discussed a key action item in Council’s Plan – Job Training Stipends to help adult students have the financial supports they need to train for jobs that can lift them out of poverty-wage jobs and into family-sustaining employment opportunities. “If you want better outcomes, you have to invest, and we are prepared to invest in Community College to ensure that adult students can obtain meaningful employment opportunities,” Clarke said. “We’ll move forward to start these discussions during the budget process.” Clarke’s emphasis on CCP dovetailed nicely with what has been generating perhaps the most interest out of Kenney’s presentation, the proposal to make attending CCP free to those who meet program requirements via the Octavius Catto (Cont. Page 14)

M A RC H 12 , 2020

hiladelphia Mayor Jim Kenney made his annual pilgrimage to City Council chambers last week to deliver his budget proposal for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. As has been reported over the past seven days, it is an encompassing tome, with a dollar sign to match as the mayor continues to ratchet up spending to bring the city’s spending back to that happy place where it would have been without the Great Recession of the last decade.

and Rebuild. They also fund the commitments we’ve made to prioritize key issues over the next four years.” Council President Darrell Clarke responded favorably to the mayor’s budget. “Overall, we believe this is a fairly good budget and Five-Year plan, assuming we don’t face any challenges beyond our control,” Clarke said. “Our key focus will be on efforts that lift 100,000 people out of poverty and end our rank as the poorest big city in the country.” Clarke noted that Council’s Special Committee on Poverty Reduction and Prevention unveiled its Poverty Action Plan just before the mayor’s address, and that he anticipated many discussions during the upcoming budget hearings about how best to integrate the Kenney administration’s ideas on reducing poverty with the actionable strategies con-

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Phila PA 19148

Check Our News & Calendar Daily Updates @ www.phillyrecord.com

State Rep.

Joanna E.

AT YOUR SERVICE

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STATE REP MARY ISAACSON

191st Leg. Dist. 52 S. 60th Street, Phila 19139

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

Sharif

Street

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

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215-686-3450 www.phlcouncil.com

City Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker 9th District

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

Facebook: CouncilwomanCherelleLParker Twitter: @CherelleParker9

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Absent the ominous economic indicators flashing red, thanks to the continuing fallout from the coronavirus, Kenney’s proposal has been met with cautious optimism by those members of Council who have commented in the last week. Of particular interest to many: the budget’s focus on lifting Philadelphians out of poverty; a focus on education, particularly the part about tuition-free matriculation at the Community College of Philadelphia; and making our streets safer. “The key investments in this Plan and the Capital Program will advance these specific goals, and ultimately help lift at least 100,000 Philadelphians out of poverty—a priority I know we all share,” the Mayor said in his address to City Council. “These investments continue programs we know are working well for our residents such as PHLpreK, Community Schools

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

New Budget Season Kicks Off in Earnest

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

ELEPHANT CORNER

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ast week, Philadelphia City Council passed a resolution condemning the site of a safe-injection facility in South Philadelphia for the planning process’s lack of transparency and community input. Not only did the Kenney administration and Safehouse fail to ask for community input, they gave virtually no warning. Furthermore, Kenney did not even inform his fellow public officials of the siting. District Councilman and sometime Kenney ally,

EVERYDAY PEOPLE BY DENISE CLAY he weekend leading up to St. Patrick’s Day is usually one where young people who really should know better get together in massive groups to see how much pressure they can put on their livers and kidneys through the practice of drinking massive amounts of beer. I’ve found myself trying to get to the SEPTA station during the St. Patrick’s Day bar crawl and, let me tell you, if you’re walking around Center City that day, wear old shoes. That way, you won’t

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Mark Squilla, whose district faces the site, found out when the media called him to confirm the location. District Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, whose district includes the site, was similarly not informed. Please note both Squilla and Jackson oppose safe injection sites. Squilla said he was initially open to the idea of the sites until he visited a safe injection location in Canada. City Councilman David Oh has drafted a bill that will presented later today that will require that the community not only is informed but at least 80% of the residents within a one-half mile radius of any safe injection site approve of such an operation. The operators of any site would need to give each resident and business in this onehalf mile area no less than six months’ notice, with City Council holding a hearing three months before the scheduled opening. This

bill will not ban these sites – as many would like – but it probably will ensure that industrialized areas will be the only places that could probably pass these constraints. The bill appears to have significant support from Democrats – and possibly enough votes to override a Kenney veto. Democratic District Councilwoman Cherelle Parker represents an area that includes both poor and reasonably well-off residents. She said, “People are going to try to guilttrip you, say that you don’t have any compassion…But when you are a homeowner where what is going there will have an impact not just on your quality of life but on the value of what could be your only asset – you have a right to speak. If the City Council bill cannot stop Kenney and Safehouse perhaps a State Senate bill proposed by (Cont. Page 19)

get quite as annoyed when some college freshman who isn’t really supposed to be drinking shows that they can’t hold their liquor. On Sunday, the streets will be filled with people who are Honorary Irish as the St. Patrick’s Day parade passes by. I admit that watching the dancers is pretty cool. But this year, the streets probably won’t be as full. There won’t be as many folks making the bar crawl. Your shoes will be safer from projectile vomiting. And for that, you can blame the coronavirus. After literally shutting down a province in China, a town in New York, and the entire nation of Italy, the coronavirus has come to Philadelphia to ruin our day. On Tuesday, Health Commissioner Thomas Farley, Mayor Jim Kenney, City Managing Director Brian Abernathy and Director of Emergency Services Adam Thiel held a news conference to let us know that some poor

person here in Philadelphia has the coronavirus. It’s here. It’s circulating. And you need to be careful. “The person is being treated and is at home,” Farley said. “We’re going to reach out to the people who were exposed to this person and they will be quarantined. We did expect the virus to circulate in Philadelphia and our goal right now is case containment and reducing the spread of the virus citywide.” Much of that is done by going to your doctor the minute you feel the symptoms – dry cough, shortness of breath, and a fever – quarantining yourself if you’ve been exposed, and otherwise playing it smart. It also means staying out of groups of more than 5,000. Now, don’t ask me how they settled on 5,000, but they did. And, unlike our President who was exposed at one of those conservative hootenannies he loves so much – but refuses to get (Cont. Page 15)

WALKING the BEAT

T. PATRICK’S MONTH events reach a new high today when the FRIENDLY SONS of Saint Patrick kick off their annual ceremony at 3 p.m. on Dilworth Plaza. All are welcome. Then, all walk up to the Mayor’s Reception Room for the Mayoral Proclamation of the grand month (the mayor may be out of town). The St. Patrick’s Observance Association caps the day with the Sashing of the Grand Marshal Dinner at Rivers Casino. A colorful Mass is held just before

CITY HALL SAM

ayor Jim Kenney was unreserved in his praise for Senator Larry Farnese‘s protected bike lane legislation at the Vision Zero conference. Vision Zero event took place at the Temple Student Center South on North 13th Street. The conference had 250 attendees, including former Temple Health System CEO Larry Kaiser. Kaiser is a big proponent of safe bike lane legislation. He was able to get an ordinance passed through city Council for bike lanes in and around Temple University.

the Sunday Parade at St. Patrick’s Church in Center City. Then, on the very day itself – the 17th – a legendary Irish breakfast is hosted by Judge Jimmy LYNN at the Plough and Stars. Then all walk one block to the Irish Memorial ceremony. SLAINTE all. ...Did you see the Pennsylvania Turnpike publicity over CAMERA TICKETING of drivers speeding through work zones? This expensive plan of mailing you a TICKET reminds me of the DRIVE-BY tickets issued to taxis who were double-parked to pick up a customer. The ticket-writer never got out of their car. A judge declared them ILLEGAL. The right to have a trooper or police officer pull you over for speeding, instead of a Turnpike CAMERA, is consistent with proper NOTICE. The camera plan protects a few workers – but what news of Turnpike efforts to protect

drivers who PAY the tolls? ...Besides the Turnpike idea – which is DEVOID of human contact – did you ever try to reach a LIVING, BREATHING HUMAN when calling customer service? There is often NO OPTION to do this. Corporations seem to take great pains to reduce human contact (and save money). They want you to go online, which often is limited for you to explain. The computer that you “speak” with has only limited answers on file. Depressing “0” several times or screaming “customer service agent” can SOMETIMES get you an agent from Bombay or Manila... Ever see four teen friends walking down a street together - on their cell phones – and not in contact with each other? A bad OMEN for the future?...The U.S. Attorney General came under fire by a federal judge for LACK OF CANDOR in (Cont. Page 15)

Just as Bob Brady predicted, Joe Biden swept many of the Super Tuesday primaries. Biden went quickly to the head of the pack in the presidential race. Although Bernie Sanders won California, Biden won all of the southern, northeast, and Midwest states and now leads in the delegate count. But Sanders appears poised to do what he did four years ago…stay in the race and try to bring down the front-runner. Sanders kept his campaign going so long against Hillary Clinton that he weakened and fractured the Democratic party and helped Donald Trump win the presidency. It has already been proven that the Russians are trying to bolster the Sanders campaign. The longer he stays afloat, the worse it is for Biden. And Trump will use all the negative attacks in his own race against buying as well as unload his portly file that’s been assembled over the last couple

of years. The Democrats are experiencing a Civil War. It’s the socialists on the extreme left against the moderates. And some people say the socialists believe their principle is more important than political victory. In fact they seem to believe that a suicidal course whereby Trump gets reelected is in the interest of their revolution. Sam has a very cynical view of the Democratic Socialists, but maybe he’s wrong. Maybe they will see the writing on the wall and get behind Biden at the appropriate time. In the Hillary Clinton debacle the progressive socialists were so much better that they stayed home. Hillary Clinton lost just enough votes in key battleground states because of this to lose the race to Trump. Jim Kenney backed Elizabeth Warren at a very early stage this year. She dropped out over the weekend (Cont. Page 19)

or a long time, few local government offices have generated more attention-grabbing news than the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office. From John Green’s $675,000 bribery scheme to the numerous sexual harassment lawsuits filed against Jewell Williams, there was no shortage of fodder coming out of the Land Title Building. Thus, we were not surprised to read about the latest efforts to bring the office low in the Inquirer last week via the report of

LETTER to the EDITOR An Open Letter to the Pennsylvania Legislature

ou have an opportunity to save lives in this election year. You can make every road safer by enacting and enforcing a mandate that municipalities and PennDOT abide by the provision in Title 75 that says speed limits should be posted at the 85th Percentile Speed, the safest speed with the most compliance. It is also an MUTCD directive. This will free up police departments to deal with the very small percentage of truly reckless drivers.

You have a further opportunity: deep-six Speed Trap Bill SB 607, which, if enacted, will foster predatory enforcement of unsafe, too-low posted speed limits, wasting scarce police resources in return for ticket revenue. First Priority: properly engineer highways, including posting the safest speed limits; Second Priority: return Driver Education to the high schools to teach safe driving practices; Third Priority: locate and ticket the very small percentage of truly reckless drivers. The enforcement-for-profit drive now prevalent in Harrisburg will not make the roads safer. Cash cows and four-wheel ATMs we are not. Drivers are not happy with your approval of red light and speed cameras that make the highways more dangerous. Don't make things worse by giving RADAR to municipal police. I have been fighting giving RADAR to municipal police since 2001: HB 1961. Speed

Trap Bill SB 607 should be buried and not resurrected. Show the taxpayers that you care more about their safety than their money from unfair tickets. Tom McCarey Member, National Motorists Association

MARK your CALENDAR Mar. 12- Friendly Sons at Dilworth Plaza, City Hall. 3 p.m. Mar. 12- Mayoral proclamation in advance of St. Patrick’s Day. Mayor’s Reception Room, City Hall, 4 p.m. Mar. 12- St. Patrick’s Observance Ass’n. Dinner.

The News in Black & White

A quintet of some of the finest practitioners the sweet science has ever known came together to support The Legacy Exists, the scholarship fund run by legendary Philly boxer Joe Frazier’s family. Posing in tandem in all their fistic glory are, from L, Ray Mercer, Larry Holmes, Blair Talmedge, Michael Spinks, and Nate Miller. Photo by Wendell Douglas

Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m.; dinner and sashing of Grand Marshal begins at 7. Rivers Casino. Mar. 13- 12-3 p.m. The Irish Society Toast to St. Patrick.FOP Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Rd. $ Mar. 13- 57th Ward Democratic Committee hosts N.E. Philly Democrats at Cannstatter Volksfest Verein, 9130 Academy Rd., 7-11 p.m. Food, drink & music; there will be a dispensation since it’s Lent. Tickets: $40 per person, $100 per candidate. Payable to “Friends of the 57th Ward Democrats.” For info: (267) 773-3251. Mar. 15- Pre-parade church service at St. Patrick’s Church, 20th & Locust sts. Mar. 15- St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Beginning at 11 a.m., from 15th & JFK to 5th & Market St. viewing stand. Mar. 17- Judge Jimmy Lynn Traditional Irish breakfast. Plough & Stars, 2nd & Chestnut sts. 7:30 a.m. $ Mar. 17- Official St. Pat-

rick’s Day ceremony. Irish memorial, Front & Chestnut sts. 11 a.m. Mar. 19- Breakfast reception for PA Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta. Democratic City Committee, 219 Spring Garden St. 8-9:30 a.m. $. RSVP to events@MDDConsulting.org or 215595-9595. Mar. 19- Councilmember David Oh hosts Victory Celebration & Fundraiser at Racquet Cl., 215 S. 16th St., 5:30-8 p.m. Contribution levels: $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,000. Payable to “Citizens for David Oh,” 5813 Thomas Ave., Phila., PA 19143 or https://politics. raisethemoney.com/doh. Mar. 21- Congressman Dwight Evans hosts Information Session about U.S. Service Academies at Winnet Bldg., CCP, 502 N. 17th St., 10 a.m.-12 m. For students & parents. Free. RSVP: (215) 254-3140. Mar. 26- Commissioner Al Schmidt hosts Fundraiser at Yards Brewing Co.,

500 Spring Garden St., 5 p.m. Contribution: $50. Mar. 26- Happy hour for PA Rep. Danilo Burgos. Ashburner Inn, 8400 Torresdale Ave. 5-8 p.m. $. RSVP to events@MDDConsulting.org or 215-595-9595. Mar. 27- 37th Ward Fish or Chicken Fry. Lou & Choo’s, 2101 W Hunting Park Ave.5-9 p.m. Tickets $10. Mar. 27- State Sen. Sharif Street hosts Birthday Party at Manayunk Brewing Co., 4120 Main St., 5-8:30 p.m. Contribution levels: VIP Birthday Host $10,000, VIP Platinum $5,000, Reception Gold $2,500, Silver $1,000, Bronze $500, Guest $100. Payable to “Friends of Sharif Syreet,” P.O. Box 28854, Phila., PA 19151 or http://www. sharifstreetforpa.com/ events. RSVP Lindsey@lperrygroup.com or (2367) 275-2120. Mar. 27- Public Record hosts “Meet the Candidates” at Cl. LaPointe, 4600 N. Broad St., 5:30-

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

a mandate for change. As the new sheriff in town, Bilal has faced a host of challenges trying to effect that change, including assembling her transition and management team. As any survivor of such a changeover – or, really, anyone who has endured being part of a startup or leadership change – can attest to, there is going to be a lot of churn. People are going to leave. People are going to be asked to leave. And when that happens, there will always be more than one side to the story – something that the Inquirer article gave short shrift. Sheriff Bilal will be under a microscope for most if not all of her tenure. But if we’re going to be so focused on her, let’s make sure we see the big picture as well.

M A RC H 12 , 2020

OPINION

Brett Mandel being fired as the Sheriff Rochelle Bilal’s chief financial officer after five weeks on the job for what he said were his concerns over spending practices. Like many who care about Philadelphia, we know Brett Mandel is a good-government advocate, a gadfly for municipal improvement who’s good with numbers. Here’s a good number: 56. That is how many days elapsed between Bilal being sworn in and the Inquirer story. Bilal was elected on a reform platform. She defeated a two-time incumbent in the primary without the support of the city’s massive Democratic operation. She earned her job at the polls, and she earned the benefit of the doubt from an electorate that gave her

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Benefit of the Doubt

M A RC H 12 , 2020

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

POLS on the STREET

(Cont. From Page 11) scholarship program. It’s a bold step, and one that will not come cheap – $63 million has already been budgeted for it, a number that could easily go up if it proves as popular as initial accounts indicate – but it is a step that must be taken if the city is to remain competitive in attracting employers who are increasingly looking for a better-educated workforce, especially when it comes to tech literacy. “We have a simple but vital goal: to significantly increase graduation rates for full-time CCP students,” the Mayor told Councilmembers. The initiative is multifaceted, combining a “last-dollar” funding model that covers the outstanding tuition balance after all other federal and state scholarships and grants, along with wraparound support services to bolster student success.

Understanding that many Philadelphians, especially those living in poverty, face significant obstacles to degree completion, the Catto Scholarship will provide $1,500 per semester to full-time students to offset costs of food ($600), books ($500), and transit ($400). In addition, new and dedicated faculty and staff, including career coaches and advisors, will connect students to existing resources such as housing, childcare, and public benefits, to help them stay on track to graduation and achieve their postsecondary goals. “Building off our historic investments in quality pre-K and the School District of Philadelphia over the last four years, the time has come to strengthen the pre-K to College continuum in our city,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “A postsecondary degree or credential is essential for the good-paying jobs of today and tomorrow, yet the rising cost of higher education and the student debt crisis have made

it virtually unattainable for far too many of our students, especially students of color. The Catto Scholarship will change these circumstances, putting Catto Scholars on a path to prosperity. At the same time, it will strengthen our economy since increasing two- and four-year college degree attainment is a major driver of inclusive, economic growth.” To fund the initiative, the Mayor proposed $10.4 million in Fiscal Year 2021, and $63.2 million over the City’s FY21-FY25 Five Year Plan. If approved by City Council, the program would begin enrolling Catto Scholars in the Fall of 2020. "At Community College of Philadelphia, our students know that a certificate or associate degree can change the course of their lives and have a seismic effect on their lifetime earnings," said Community College of Philadelphia President Donald Guy Generals. "We are thrilled that Mayor Kenney is proposing to invest in the city's college,

as the best partner to make the transformative power of education available to even more Philadelphians." To be eligible for the program, an applicant must: 1. Be a first-time or a returning full-time student who graduated from a high school in Philadelphia. (This includes Philadelphia public, private, homeschool, alternative, and PA cyber schools, as well as individuals who earned the Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma by passing the GED or HiSET exam.) 2. Be a resident of Philadelphia for at least 12 months. 3. Complete the annual free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) and document an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) below $15,000. 4. Meet college readiness requirements assessed at the time of their placement exams with no more than one level below college-ready in reading, writing, and math. To remain eligible, students must maintain Philadelphia residency, full-time enrollment (at least 12 credits per semester), a 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) after the first year in the program, and meet milestones of credit attainment each of the three years for which they are eligible for the scholarship.

Returning full-time students are eligible for last-dollar tuition assistance, provided that they meet the same residency, high school, and EFC requirements and enroll for the scholarship by summer 2021. They are also required to have achieved at least a 2.0 GPA and to have no more than 42 credits at the time of being determined eligible for the scholarship. Undocumented students are also eligible to apply. CCP will work with the students to determine income eligibility. Naysayers to the initiative were hard to find – it’s tough to argue against anything that could give Philadelphia students a leg up in an increasingly stratified job market – and given the litany of hardships endured by students this year alone, including environmental concerns that shuttered schools, charters failing, and the looming threat of coronavirus shutting down brick-andmortar attendance, this news was welcomed by a virtual who’s who of education advocates from across the commonwealth, including Gov. Tom Wolf, Education Secretary Pedro Rivera, and Congressman Dwight Evans. “As a proud alumnus of Community College of Philadelphia, the Octavius Catto Scholarship announced by Mayor Kenney gives me great joy and hope for the future

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Special Issue

Please join us March 19th, 2020 in our Women’s History Month Special Issue. We will recognize the contributions of Philadelphia’s most accomplished women leaders.

Please send your ad to mbarrett@phillyrecord.com Melissa Barrett 215-755-2000 Ext. 5 21 S. 11th Street, Suite 205, Philadelphia, PA 19107

of Philadelphia,” Evans said. “CCP is our region’s predominant gateway to a prosperous future for Philadelphia high school graduates and other adults who return to the classroom to advance their careers. The program not only makes CCP tuition-free for first-time, full-time students, it also provides significant wraparound supports to remove barriers that keep many of our students from completing their degree program. I know firsthand the power of a community college education, and I commend the Kenney Administration and CCP for developing such a thoughtful program that’s sure to have a tremendous impact on our city.” The budget includes funding to improve the condition and safety of Philadelphia streets. Following a successful pilot in this current fiscal year, the City will significantly expand street sweeping through a $10.5 million investment in street cleaning crews and vehicles, bringing the total 20202021 budget for the Streets Department to $118.5 million (not including the $51.5 million for trash and recycling disposal). Other funding and capital projects further the Mayor’s commitment to street paving and improving the condition of our roadways, as well as Vision Zero’s goal of eliminating all traffic-related deaths and severe injuries by 2030 and providing more protected bike lanes. As anyone who has spent even a modicum of time navigating the asphalt, macadam and cobblestoned thoroughfares of the Cradle of Liberty can attest to, they are all too frequently a source of shame, frustration and lack of civic pride. The mayor has rightly prioritized this solution for a city so dependent on the safety of our streets both for the citizenry and the massive tourist dollars that are flowing into coffers in record amounts – and that will need to be looked after with even greater love and care if the coronavirus continues to hammer away at the industry.

EVERYDAY PEOPLE (Cont. From Page 12)

thing to do right now. “We’re suggesting to people that they might want to watch these things on TV,” Abernathy said. “The organizers of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade have been very respectful of the city’s position.” While the organizers are being respectful of the city’s position, I’m not so sure about the pub crawlers. A lot of youngsters have been looking forward to this weekend because it’s connected to Spring Break and gives them a chance to let

their hair down. But I hope they do. You can grab some illegal beer at home and pass out in your own bed, something that’s probably safer all around. The City has set up a text chain for those seeking day to day updates on the coronavirus. To access that chain, text COVIDPHL to 888777. For information on the School District of Philadelphia’s response to the coronavirus on its website, www.philasd.org/ coronavirus/.

(Cont. From Page 12) the Mueller Report. Is that a surprise? Justice is the “fifth branch” of government after the news media. The fourth and fifth branches are NOT elected by the people. ,,,SAD LOSS: Charlotte MC LAUGHLIN passed away. She was only in her 70s and bravely fought cancer. St. Peter reports that he is always aware of her presence...HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Laura KRESCHOLLEK, retired congressional aide. Ageless folks like her should not have a birthday!...CONGRATS to Jeanette GETER on her election as Vice Pres-

tested – I’m going to listen to them because they’re scientists. You see, large groups of people are manna from heaven to the coronavirus, especially those in vulnerable populations like the elderly and people with chronic diseases. While no one is being told to cancel things events like Saturday’s game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Indiana Pacers or the city’s 250th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, being in an arena or on a street with 75,000 of your closest friends might not be the best

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City budget spending for indicating lack of tangible results in areas. Question: WHO authorized the editorial board to decide results for us? How many of the writers live in the SUBURBS? The new SHERIFF of Philadelphia came under daily press EDITORIAL attack when she fired an employee. This after the media was so recently WELCOMING of the Sheriff as FRESH AIR in government by the very same EB? FICKLE? Then they launched into the old and WORN-OUT attack to disestablish the office. I sang: “Up in the garret/away from the din/the Editorial Board is playing that OLD violin.”

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ident, Philly Coalition of Labor Union Women!! CITY COUNCIL - New Council members sometimes want to speed out of the barn with lightning legislation. So Kendra BROOKS has proposed City Rent Control. She says that it works well in other cities. Slow down and study this! A CRISIS does loom in rents: With rising rents, the POOR will soon have nowhere to live in Philly...The TECH SCHOOL 5-POINT job preference bill has SLOWED after a highspeed start. The measure was introduced with all good intentions by Councilperson Gilmore RICHARDSON. An editorial lashed out at Mayor Kenney's proposed

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

(215) 236-6700

www.ldc-phila-vic.org Alan Parham, Adminstrator

Local 57 - Esteban Vera, Jr., Business Manager Local 135 - Daniel L. Woodall, Jr.,, Business Manager Local 332 - Samuel Staten, Jr., Business Manager Local 413 - James Harper, Jr., Business Manager Laborers’ District Council - Ryan Boyer, Business Manager Building better and safer communities in Philadlephia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties

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

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WALKING the BEAT

Y the WAFFLE MAN

o! Here we go again. Everything has a history. Some are interesting, some dull and some are WOW. One of the WOW histories is that of the lowly jigsaw puzzle – you know, the cardboard puzzle withshaped pieces that interlock (ha) and when completedlook like the picture on the box

(ha-ha.) At some point in its assembly everyone will swear that there is at least one piece missing, and unti it is found it is impossible to complete, right? Jigsaw puzzles have a long history. Way back in 1726, John Spilsbury, a London mapmaker and printer, glued one of his maps onto a thin

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www.ldc-phila-vic.org

wooden panel. He then cut the map along the borders of each country with a small hand saw. This was the first WOW. It took a lot of time to create one of his puzzles. They were made for rich parents and guardians to help their children with the study of geography. It was the true beginning of the

humble jigsaw puzzle industry. Forty or 50 years later there were scores of puzzle makers competing for their share of the growing educational puzzle market. Lots of puzzles were made and they featured such themes as history, morals and religion. Sunday was a popular day to assemble a religious puzzle since it was a religious day, so children’s play was not permitted. All along, jigsaw puzzles were made the same way: by gluing prints to wood and cutting each one out with a hand saw. Oh by the way, most of these puzzles were only about 50 pieces, not a serious challenge. Jigsaw puzzles were still very expensive and some cost a week’s pay for a common laborer. In 1876 a power scroll saw (now known as the jigsaw scroll saw) was displayed at the Philadelphia Centennial Expo. It was cheap, about $3 for the foot-powered model. It could make amazingly intricate cuts and it was an instant hit with woodworkers. At once it was used to cut smaller puzzle pieces much faster and therefore

much cheaper – but still expensive. These puzzles now interested adults, another WOW. High society had a toy for itself. Jigsaw puzzles swept the country and by the early 1900s there were cheaper puzzles available. If you couldn’t afford to buy one, you could go to the lending library to borrow one or even rent one from many dealers. But they were still too expensive. During the 1930s, the familiar wooden jigsaw puzzles gave way to the puzzles that we know today, printed cardboard die-cut into many pieces. In one stroke of the machine the puzzle is done ---- WOW. Soon the price of puzzles fell to about 10 cents. Now everyone could afford one and the craze really took off. And none too soon, for during the Depression there was not much money for toys or games. The cheap jigsaw puzzle was an ideal way to keep busy for hours. During that fad about 6 million puzzles a week were sold. One manufacturer sold about $100 million worth of them – and that is a lot of dimes. (Cont. Next Page)

(Cont. From Prev. Page) For about 50 years they were a staple for fans, but they were starting to lose their popularity. In 1989 Paul Gallant from Canada started a new company. Through much experimentation he developed a 3-D puzzle, not on cardboard but on plastic foam. His puzzles are shaped in forms like skyscrapers, the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Titanic and spaceships. His company alone now does over $100 million a year – WOW. Are you a puzzle fan? What is the hardest puzzle you have attempted? How about this one: one color printed on both sides of all the pieces, no picture? How about the 750-piece borderless one in which there are no straight “border” pieces? They all look like “inside” pieces, and to make you even crazier they put in five extra pieces that won.t fit anywhere in the puzzle. Then there is this little tormenter. It has the same picture printed on both sides, but one side was printed 90 degrees offset with respect to the other before it was die-cut. I came across “The Bermuda Triangle Jigsaw Puzzle.” It contains 324 one-inch triangular pieces, each one slightly different in size, all with straight edges. Each piece has one or two indentations: bumps and pits on each piece to “help’”locate them in the puzzle. Of course it is not fully interlocking. Look for these brain teasers if you want to want to spend a few years trying to finish them. Remember this: all the pieces are in the box.

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MAN

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS Philadelphia COUNTY CIVIL ACTION - LAW ACTION OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE Term No. 190606871 NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE AMERICAN HERITAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Plaintiff vs. DEBORAH GARVEY IN HER CAPACITY AS ADMINISTRATRIX AND HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED, JANET GREED, IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED & DOLORES RHEINHARDT SNEAD IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED Mortgagor and Real Owner Defendant TO DEBORAH GARVEY IN HER CAPACITY AS ADMINISTRATRIX AND HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED, JANET GREED, IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED & DOLORES RHEINHARDT SNEAD IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR-AT-LAW OF BARBARA A. SINGER, DECEASED, MORTAGOR AND REAL OWNER, DEFENDANT whose last known address is 480 Pinewood Road Philadelphia, PA 19116. 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 AMERICAN HERITAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, 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. 190606871 wherein Plaintiff seeks to foreclose on the mortgage secured on your property located, 480 Pinewood Road Philadelphia, PA 19116 whereupon your property will be sold by the Sheriff of Philadelphia. 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 claim in the Complaint of 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. ASOCIACION DE LICENCIADOS DE FILADELFIA Servicio De Referencia E Informacion Legal One Reading Center Filadelfia, PA 19107 215-238-1701

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WAFFLE

COMMUNITY LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Law Center North Central 1410 W. Erie Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-227-2400 or 215-981-3700 PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION Lawyer Referral and Information Service One Reading Center Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-238-1701 Michael T. McKeever Attorney for Plaintiff KML Law Group, P.C., PC Suite 5000, BNY Independence Center 701 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 215-627-1322

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the

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understanding BANKRUPTCY BY MICHAEL A. CIBIK AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY BOARD CERTIFIED uestion: Can I stop my eviction by filing for bankruptcy? In order to be evicted, the landlord must obtain an eviction judgment, which can take some time to ob-

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that K is for Kitchen Cooperative, Inc., a cooperative corporation, has adopted a plan of dissolution and is winding up the corporation’s affairs pursuant to Section 1975(b) of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law of 1988.

tain. If you file for bankruptcy prior to the landlord obtaining the eviction judgment, the automatic stay will be put into place and stop the eviction – but usually not for long. The landlord in response can then file a motion asking the bankruptcy court for permission to evict you by filing a motion to lift the automatic stay. The court typically grants the landlord’s request unless you have good reason why the eviction shouldn’t happen. Ultimately, its important to understand that bankruptcy

can buy you time, but will not stop the eviction permanently.

Next week's question: 19 Should I file a joint bankruptcy with my spouse?

CITY HALL SAM

(Cont. From Page 12) but this is still a good situation for Mayor Kenney. Now Biden really needs him and he’s not sure if he’s for Bernie. Kenney can help build the suspense by playing coy and then in a dramatic turn be the big hero in endorsing the winner. It appears that the coronavirus has been politicized. It will end up being

like the impeachment hearing and Trump will point to a potential cure and reduction in cases and claim it’s because of his leadership. City Council has passed legislation that could prevent safe injection sites. Sam thinks this was probably long overdue. Check Our News & Calendar Daily Updates @ www. phillyrecord.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

T-Mobile proposes to modify an existing facility (new tip heights 183’) on the 174’ building at 3701 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA (20190640). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-8091202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

AT&T proposes to replace an existing 42.1’ wood utility pole with a new 47.5’ wood utility pole and install a top-mounted antenna at 47.75’ at 282 N 33rd St, Philadelphia, PA (20191979). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

AT&T proposes to collocate antennas (tip heights 124.5’ & 139’) on the building at 6300 Cobbs Creek Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA (20200123). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-8091202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

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(Cont. From Page 12) State Senator Tina Tartaglione (D, PA-2) might stop the sites. Her bill would criminalize the operating of the sites giving 20-year sentence for individuals and a $2 million fine for the organization. Tartaglione’s bill does exempt cities that pass an ordinance allowing the sites. However, that municipality must hold three public hearings before the location can open. While the Oh bill may or may not have enough votes to override a Kenney veto, there may not be enough votes for the ordinance envisioned by Tartaglione. There is a companion bill moving through the State House of Representative which is a more conservative body than the State Senate, and thus more likely to pass. While a number of State Representative in Philadelphia were outspoken against the South Philadelphia safe injection site because of the lack of transparency including Maria Donatucci (D, PA185) and Katherine Feidler D, PA-184). I am curious how Feidler

will vote on a bill that could effectively ban these sites. She is probably in an awkward place here. Her politics are very left of center so her fellow progressive may not be happy with her voting for this bill. However, if you do not vote for this bill she will have a real problem in her district. While the 184th is heavily Democratic, but it is far more conservative than hen she. She won last time, as she had no opponent. This year she has a Republican opponent who is adamantly opposed to safe injection sites. I think the demonstration against the site speak to where her constituents stand. Last week the Trump campaign commenced it Women for Trump effort in Philadelphia. They held a training session and Town Hall Watch at the United Republican Club. The Town Hall was on Fox News with Marsha MacCallum and Beeit Beir. The Town Hall was televised from Scranton, We expect these efforts to intensify over the next month. Any woman interested in joining the Women for Trump should contact Ashleigh Presner through the Republican Party of Pennsylvania (PAGOP).

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ELEPHANT CORNER

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Special Event & Issue

The Public Record & Sid Booker invite you to

Meet the Candidates!

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Friday, March 27, 2020

Join us as we welcome the campaigns for the presidential, congressional and statewide races on the April 28 primary ballot as they meet potential constituents! At this unique event, motivated and politically savvy voters from across Philadelphia will meet and mingle with participants like State Rep. Mary Isaacson, State Auditor General Candidates Nina Ahmad and Tracie Fountain, the Philadelphia City Commissioners Office, and others. The event, featuring assorted beverages and light appetizers, will be held at:

The legendary Sid Bookerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club LaPointe, 4600 North Broad Street 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Admission is complimentary for the general public. P H IL LY R E CO R D.C O M - 215 -755 -20 0 0

RSVP Here: https://tinyurl.com/pprprimary2020 For sponsorship opportunities and for candidates and consultants interested in participating:

Contact Melissa Barrett, Director of Sales, 215-755-2000, ext.5; mbarrett@phillyrecord.com