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Vol. V No. 43 (Issue 218) The Only Union Newspaper Reporting South Philly The Way It Deserves December 8, 2011
Don’t Say, ‘Happy Holidays’
Audenreid Senior Wins Scholarship Palumbo Academy Students Raise Attendance Score; Win Red Carpet Hollywood Night Students at the Academy at Palumbo are in for a night to remember after the school won a competition for improving their attendance.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. That’s exactly the mantra taken from one Audenreid High School student who applied for as many scholarship as she could. Naheemah S. Salaam, a senior at Audenried High School, was named the winner of the Have You Done It Yet Scholarship by applying for $107,000 worth of scholarships in a three-month period. (Cont. Page 2)
The 646 students improved their overall attendance rate to 97% in seven weeks to win the East Region of the national Get Schooled Foundation’s Fall 2011 Attendance Challenge. To celebrate, Paramount Pictures will host a red carpet experience for the all students, with a Mission: Impossible-themed event at the school and preview screenings of Mission: Impossible- Ghost Protocol at the UA Riverview (Cont. Page 2)
SCHOLARSHIP WINNER,Naheemah S. Salaam, a senior at Audenried High School, was named winner of the Have You Done It Yet scholarship contest.
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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
The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 8, 2011
1904 S. 30th Street • Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215)-336-1108 (215)-336-1149 (fax) Executive Board: President- Daniel Olivieri Vice-President-Vince DeFino Esq. Secretary/TreasurerReggie Lozzi Past-President Louis Lozzi, Sr.
Board Members Denise D’Eletto Louis Galdo Dr. James Moylan
Marge Mariziani John Savarese Mark Rago
Academy At Palumbo ‘Gets Schooled’ To Win Hollywood Contest (Cont. from Page 1) Theatre on Columbus Boulevard for all students on Dec. 16. The Academy at Palumbo, a school of 646 students, improved its overall attendance rate to 97% in seven weeks to win the East Region of the national Get Schooled Foundation’s Fall 2011 Attendance Challenge. The friendly competition engaged nearly 80,000 students from 73 high schools in 17 states between Oct. 3 and Nov. 18 through a variety of online, social media and inschool activities. Across all participating schools, 1,000 additional students came to school during the course of the challenge. In the Eastern region, the Academy at Palumbo, motivated by the idea of a national competition and the chance to rally the school around a common goal of improving attendance, worked hard to improve upon its attendance rate. “We are so proud that our Academy students showed
their commitment to their education and their future by showing up to school and participating in the Attendance Challenge,” said Adrienne Wallace-Chew, principal of the Academy at Palumbo. Kiana Thompson, the Academy’s roster chairperson and the school’s Attendance Challenge’s coordinator, said, “As a school, we were trying to think of creative ways to increase school attendance, and Get Schooled’s Attendance Challenge and Wakeup calls came at the perfect time to help us reach our goals.” Attendance is the greatest predictor of graduation and a significant driver of student achievement. Research shows missing just 10 days a year can lead to academic problems. Students who miss 20 days a year (or about one month) have less than a onein-five chance of graduating from high school. Few districts report these chronic truancy numbers, despite their correlation to low graduation rates.
“Hundreds of students came to school this fall who historically have not,” said Marie Groark, executive director of the Get Schooled Foundation. “Thanks to the hard work of the students and staff, the Academy’s improvement means the school is on the right path to improving its graduation rate.” To celebrate the school’s achievements, Paramount Pictures, a unit of Viacom, will host a red-carpet experience for the students on Dec.16, with a Mission: Impossible-themed event at the school and preview screenings of Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol at the UA Riverview theatre in on Columbus Bloulevard for all students. Get Schooled brought a mix of celebrity encouragement, interactive educational games, and plenty of opportunities to elevate the youth voice, resulting in an average of 2.8% attendance rate increase across all participating schools. Schools earned points in the challenge by im-
proving their attendance, nominating teachers who inspire them to come to school, testing their knowledge in an on-line trivia bowl, and signing up for wake-up calls from their favorite celebrities such as Tyra Banks and Trey Songz. During the Challenge, the Academy hosted a Halloween attendance-focused pep rally with more than 600 students and teachers to celebrate their high attendance rates and to showcase their school spirit. Academy students also completed 1050 Sporcle quizzes testing their knowledge about science, geography and hiphop stars’ real names. 185 students signed up for Wakeup Calls from celebrities. Students also wrote 575 nominations about inspiring teachers who motivate them to get to school every day and stay focused on their education. “How does an urban high school in the city of brotherly love motivate students to get to school? Just ask the 185 students who signed up for
Southwark’s Karen Brown Eyes A GOP Leadership Role www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Jackie Fitzpatrick Vince Giusini Esq.
by Maria Merlino Karen Brown does not want to be known as the former Republican candidate for mayor, she wants to be known as the woman who shook up the Philadelphia GOP. We’re sitting in a booth at her previous workplace, The Oregon Diner. “I used to waitress here on weekends when I was teaching,” she said “Catholic-school teachers don’t get paid a lot.” In front of her is a pretty plate heaped with fresh strawberries, sliced bananas, whipped cream and veiled underneath all that magnificent goo is a sturdy Belgian waffle. Used and abused by the
Party and the mainstream media, she had a difficult road to travel, fighting not only the Dems, but the Republicans, as well. “In the end, they did support me,” she says,” but now that it’s over, they don’t know what to do with me.” Forty thousand people believed in her, enough to get her a fifth of the vote. “People wanted a change and I was happy to be there for that change. I feel rejuvenated and although I didn’t win, all those votes tell me that I wasn’t fighting for nothing.” Wanting to be more active in the Republican leadership, her ideas have been brushed aside by the Loyal Opposition
and Meehan’s Republicans. Neither has presented her with any kind of direction. Amazingly, she’s offered them a way to convert most of those 40,000 voters who were not Republicans to be Republicans and make the numbers 5-2 instead of 6-1 within a year. “Neither side has embraced me or my offering. I was a woman who had a campaign account of $37,000; $10,000 was my own money. I ran my entire campaign. My team consisted of microgroups, roofers, towing and salvage, college students, fire and police. They all volunteered. I was able to get one-
fifth of the votes against an incumbent Mayor in a Democratic city. The Mayor also used former President Clinton to increase his odds. Even if the Republicans didn’t take me seriously, the Mayor did. He had Bill Clinton robo-calling on his behalf and Obama made an appearance on Election Day. He tried to get The Clintons to the Temple campus, but the hurricane grounded the plane. Nutter thought I was a formidable candidate, but the Republicans weren’t sold.” Brown added, “I have to thank those that voted for me. It’s because of them that my voice won’t get lost in the shuffle.”
Get Schooled wakeup calls, and Ms. Thompson who headed up the competition at Academy at Palumbo. “We were trying to think of creative ways to increase attendance, so the wakeup calls and the attendance challenge] came at the perfect time.” Motivated by the idea of a national competition and the chance to rally their school around a common goal – improving attendance and winning, this school had to work really hard to improve upon their already high 96% attendance rate. But improve they did, their attendance went up almost 1.1% – and they’ve had some fun in the process. In Get Schooled’s daily Sporcle quiz competition, Palumbo kids took almost 1050 quizzes. Palumbo students gave shout outs to their great teachers who’ve helped them get to where they, such as Ms. Neary and Mrs. Tuff.
Students Apply For Scholarships (Cont. from Page 1) State Rep. Kenyatta Johnson, who launched the scholarship-awareness campaign, will present Salaam with a scholarship prise tonight. Johnson encouraged students to apply for every scholarship they were eligible to receive by awarding an additional $1,500 to the student who applied for the highest dollar amount of scholarships. Over 1,000 students received information about the campaign, and students from across the area applied for over $200,000 worth of scholarships. Johnson will host the Peace Not Guns HYDIY Awards Banquet at Yesha Fellowship Hall from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. tonight.
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Candidate Fund, a national pro-life political action committee, announced its endorsement of Ann Duke, candidate for State Auditor of Pennsylvania. “The Susan B. Anthony List Candidate Fund is proud to endorse Ann Duke for State Auditor,” said SBA List President Marjorie Dannenfelser. “She is committed to keeping taxpayer dollars from funding abortions and has the unique opportunity as State Auditor to keep taxpayers out of the abortion business.”
AFL-CIO Back Casey Via TV
Pileggi Won’t Run For US Senate
The AFL-CIO is reported to have made over $170,000 in television ad buys around the state in support of US Sen. Bob Casey. The ads began appearing Monday in the state’s six major television markets. It is reported Casey’s earned the boost with his 98% pro-labor voting record.
Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (RDelaware) has announced he is not a candidate for US Senate. “After a great deal of careful consideration, I have decided not to enter the race for the United States Senate,” Pileggi, said in a Facebook posting. “I will continue to focus on my service as Senate Majority Leader, working for positive change in state government.”
Susan B. Anthony Backs Ann Duke For Auditor
The Susan B. Anthony List
Brady Awards To Canadians
FAMILIES making merry at Democrat 55th Ward Leader Bob Dellavella’s holiday party were, from left, wife Angie Dellavella; her mom Mary and dad Lou; Bernadette Ruggiero and Dr. Joseph Ruggiero, and host Bob.
BRIGHT LIGHTS on 55th Ward holiday party’s Christmas tree were, from left, 54th Ward Leader Controller Alan Butkovitz, Democrat Party Chairman Bob Brady, host Bob Dellavella, attorney Dan Rendine and Councilman at Large Jim Kenney. Photos by Harry Leech
SPREADING CHEER at Bob Dellavella’s 55th Ward Christmas affair, from left, were 66A Ward Leader Shawn Dillon & wife Ana, Councilmen Bill Green and Bill Greenlee, and columnist about town Joe Stivala.
GOOD FRIENDS come together at Casa Dellavella: from left, Donna with Democrat 35th Ward Leader Bill Dolbow, 56th Ward Leader John Sabatina, Sr., Councilman Bill Green and wife Margie, and host Bob Dellavella of 55th.
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The Public Record • December 8, 2011
leader in protecting the people of Pennsylvania, both as a Senator and former Deputy Attorney General. “Most recently, Sen. Rafferty sponsored legislation to enhance the penalties for driving under the influence. He has also cosponsored legislation to better track and prosecute sexual offenders,” Chairman Meehan said. “As a result of Sen. Rafferty’s efforts to protect our children, loopholes in Megan’s law have been closed,” Chairman Meehan said.
Dellavella’s 55th Marks Yule Cheer
Page 3
The County Leaders of the Southeast Republican Caucus met Wednesday and voted unanimously to recommend the Caucus vote to endorse State Sen. John Rafferty (RMontgomery) for the nomination for Attorney General of Pennsylvania. The Southeast Caucus will meet on a date to be announced and the leaders expect Rafferty to receive overwhelming support from its caucus members. The Republican State Committee will meet on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 to endorse statewide candidates. Senator Rafferty has represented Pennsylvania’s 44th Senatorial Dist., which includes parts of Berks, Chester and Montgomery Cos., since 2002. Rafferty also served as Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth in charge of the Criminal Law Division and Grand Jury Investigations from 1988 to 1991. “We are proud to support Sen. John Rafferty,” said Caucus Chairman Michael Meehan. “Sen. Rafferty has been a
Rafferty Wins SE GOP AG Nod
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CONGRESSMAN Robert Brady aide Tom Johnson, left, presented two citations from Congressman Brady to commanding officers of two Canadian Navy Frigates visiting Penn’s Landing. Dave Armstrong of Navy League presented several gifts to ships. Coordinating event was Monica Forkin Santoro, right, director of ship operations for Delaware River Waterfront Corp. Photo by Joe Stivala
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EVEN THOUGH US Sen. Bob Casey was stuck in Washington, trying to shepherd through his taxcut bill, star Democratic operative and commentator James Carville met with Casey supporters at scheduled Casey fundraiser. Seen here with Carville is State Rep. Jim Roebuck, Democratic chairman of Penna. House Education Committee.
DISTRICT OFFICE
Page 4 The Public Record • December 8, 2011 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Daryl Vs. Babette: Round 1 For Statewide Race?
by Tony West In other years, the Pennsylvania House State Government Committee hasn’t been an arena that set pulses pounding. This session of the General Assembly, it’s different. A clash of wills and philosophies between its new Majority Chair Daryl Metcalfe (R-Butler) and its long-serving Minority Chair Babette Josephs (D-S. Phila.) has drawn security guards into the committee room and left observers agape. That they should clash is no wonder. Josephs, 71, is a card-carrying liberal from worldly Center City. Metcalfe, 49, hails from the remote Pittsburgh suburb of Cranberry Township, nestled amid rolling countryside about as far from Philadelphia as you can get in this state. Which probably doesn’t bother Metcalfe, since he is as conservative as Josephs is liberal. Over the last eight years, Bob Guzzardi, the small-government activist from Wynnewood, has usually rated Metcalfe the top legislator on his Liberty Index. This score would make Metcalfe the farthest-right politician in Harrisburg. Since the 2011 session began, the two Chairs have been dueling fiercely over procedure. When Josephs was Majority Chair in the last General Assembly, she ran things
one way; Metcalfe runs things another way. Josephs and her fellow Democrats are effectively shut out of the action now and are crying foul. Josephs is a fan of patient study. “The public has demanded openness, accountability and transparency,” she said. She also takes pride in her fairness to the opposition. “When I was Majority Chair, I advanced 28 Republican bills,” she noted. State Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre), who served Minority Chair of State Government in the last General Assembly, paid tribute to Josephs’ style. “I appreciate the way she ran Republicans’ bills,” he said. “Though she may have opposed our views, she was always respectful. My members liked the way we worked together.” Her slow, painstaking reviews often improved Republican initiatives in a “collaborative learning process,” he said. Then came the mashup. Right before the end of the last General Assembly, the old Intergovernmental Affairs Committee was folded into State Government. An opening arose on the Finance Committee, a plum assignment, and Benninghoff leapt at a chance to take it over as Majority Chair. That left Metcalfe, the Republican Chair of Intergovernmental Affairs, as ranking GOPster in the new State Gov-
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ernment Committee. So when he took over as its Majority Chair, Josephs and he had never worked together. They still haven’t. Metcalfe’s style could not be more different from Josephs’. He comes with a ready-made agenda and sees his committee as a vehicle to advance it, chop-chop. If minority members want to sit and watch, they’re welcome to; if not, they can leave. “I think [Josephs] is having a hard time adjusting to the fact she doesn’t run the committee anymore and cannot set its agenda or moderate its discussion,” Metcalfe commented. As for working with Chairs across the aisle, he said Intergovernmental Affairs wasn’t very active, so there wasn’t much to interact with Democrats over. Although Metcalfe and Josephs sit side by side, he will not recognize her when she asks to speak. She now communicates with him, bitterly, by letter. Metcalfe brought with him a number of junior Representatives, some of them elected by the 2010 Tea Party movement. Metcalfe, who has been in the legislature since 1999, proved a natural leader for them. “Before he ever heard of the Tea Party, he believed in all its causes,” observed Robert Nix, a Philadelphia lawyer and a Hispanic Republican activist who
has often dealt with Metcalfe. “My speculation is he got 15-20 members who would vote with him and he threatened the leadership with something – maybe holding up the budget. Then he got a chance to handpick his members,” Josephs mused. Metcalfe promptly used his new committee as a vessel for his top issue: a crackdown on illegal immigration. Metcalfe has earned prominence among state legislators nationwide in this cause. He introduced a 16-part package of legislation into State Government to combat the crime, welfare and school costs he says stem from their presence. All 16 parts sit on the committee’s agenda like a millstone, at every meeting. Testimony is not circulated in advance. No one knows which parts will actually be discussed, so Representatives have no way to bone up for the day’s discussion. Not that there will be much discussion, at least for Democrats. Metcalfe “has not let us speak in committee. He has had the question called twice in committee. When I asked around if anyone has ever heard of a committee hearing before where debate was cut off, the answer was no,” Josephs said. Frustrated, Democrats are acting up. “If he tries to cut us off, we keep talking,” said
State Sen. Shirley M.
Kitchen
Josephs – even during votes. “He has not advanced one Democratic bill anyway; we have nothing to lose.” Metcalfe has responded by stationing Capitol security in the hearing room – a rare move – and threatening to eject members from the hearing room. Metcalfe’s interests range far beyond “the illegal alien invasion,” as he puts it. He advocates everything else on the Movement Conservative hit list: gun laws, environmental regs, climate science, abortion, homosexuals, Muslims, vote fraud, taxes, unions, public workers. Metcalfe uses State Government as a forum for many of these hot-button campaigns. Josephs complains many of them don’t belong in State Government and suspects a deal with a fellow Westerner, Speaker Sam Smith (R-Jefferson). Another Republican observer doubts this, however: “I don’t agree with Metcalfe much, but I think everything he is handling in committee is germane to State Government.” Regardless, Metcalfe’s hardhitting, wide-ranging style has turned State Government from a sleepy sideshow into a dynamic venue for big ideas. Latest out of the chute is congressional redistricting legislation (HB 5), which Metcalfe sped to the House floor despite the efforts of Josephs to slow it up enough to permit public hearings and input. Metcalfe is a veteran who worked as an engineer before he went to Harrisburg. A Republican colleague described
him as “very bright and methodical about his maneuvers.” People who know him describe him as straightforward and sincere. “He is a little bit like the Soup Nazi on ‘Seinfeld’, said Nix. “He lives by the principles that he espouses for others.” “Daryl has some specific core principles he believes in and lives his life by being fairly rigid to them,” said Benninghoff. “But even people who disagree with him respect the fact he will stand up for them.” Metcalfe also likes to play his cards close to his chest. “He ran a stealth Lieutenant Governor race in 2010 and did very well,” Benninghoff recalled. “He kept it all under the radar until he filed.” Josephs charges other Republicans are “afraid” of Metcalfe. That may be a stretch. But his causes are hot nationally; the freshmen look up to him; there is no project so big he won’t tackle it; and he is still young. He has already taken a lick at statewide office and might like to follow in Gov. Tom Corbett’s shoes. But Pennsylvania is more than just Cranberry Township. “Metcalfe is a fine gentleman,” said State Rep. Jewell Williams, “but he needs to get more sensitive to other people’s cultures and struggles.” Meanwhile, chairing Finance now, Benninghoff mused, “In my current position, I have a Minority Chair with me and I have tried to operate by what I learned from Babette, utilizing some of the same techniques she showed me.” Councilman Bill
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Northeast Philadelphia
Page 5
Larry Pitt & Associates Opens Lower Bucks Office
Page 6 The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Paschall Village Greens Neighborhood The Philadelphia Housing Authority has transformed the Paschall neighborhood in Southwest Philadelphia with its newest development, Paschall Village, which features the latest in green technology. The new 100-home development replaces Paschall Apartments, which was built in the mid-1960s and was outmoded and energy-inefficient. The revitalized site improves the aesthetics of the neighborhood with an attractive network of open space, creating a greater sense
of community and improving safety conditions while strengthening the neighborhood’s character. Paschall Village is PHA’s most ambitious green development to date, using high performance green products. It features central geothermal heating and cooling, solar domestic hot water, solar panels, rainwater harvesting/irrigation system, hardwood floors, and Energy Star fixtures and equipment. “Paschall Village is a shin-
ing example of PHA’s commitment to building green, energy efficient, sustainable developments,” said Michael P.Kelly, PHA administrative receiver/ executive director. “We intend to be a leader and set an example in this field. Philadelphia has always been an incubator for innovation in many areas, and this new site fills the bill.” The new Paschall offers 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom homes ranging from 700 to 1,550 square feet. Twenty of the units are handicapped-accessible.
PHA Administrative Receiver/Executive Director Michael P. Kelly, with scissors, cuts ribbon in dedication ceremony for Housing Authority’s newest development, Paschall Village in S.W. Phila. Sharing event, from left, were Acting Deputy Regional Administrator for HUD Richard Ott, Southwest Leadership Academy Charter School Principal Alphonso Evans, Director of Development for Penna. Housing Finance Agency Holly Glauser, City Council President Anna Verna and Resident Liaison Nellie Reynolds.
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Warrior Boxing Gym Opens
JOSE D. RIVERA, who has trained boxers around world, from San Juan to London, came to S. Philly opening of Warrior Boxing Gym. In Warrior ring, Rivera is flanked by boxer Anthony Abbruzzese and Veteran Boxers Association Director Fred Druding, Jr. Photo by Joe Stivala
WARRIOR BOXING, city’s newest boxing gym at 1209 Mifflin Street, is open to boxers of all levels, including 7year-old Gabriel Grimmly at left.
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The Public Record • December 8, 2011
MAJOR Artery Revitalization Committee hosted its annual Holiday Wreath Workshop at Holmesburg Rec Center. For a $25 donation, folks were given materials and instruction to create their own live wreath. Avenues, Aramingo Avenue & York Street, and Aramingo & Castor Avenues. There are also cameras at Welsh, Southampton,
Mascher, Levick, Rhawn and 9th Streets along the Boulevard. The most recent red-light camera intersection is located at Broad & Vine Streets.
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The Philadelphia Parking Authority announces the red light cameras at Broad & Vine Streets are now in effect. Now that the twomonth grace period is over, drivers found in violation will face a $100 fine. The PPA also activated red-light cameras at the intersection of Lindbergh Boulevard & Island Avenue on Monday . Drivers found in violation will receive warnings for the next 60 days. After the two-month grace period ending on Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 violators will face a $100 fine. “This intersection of Lindbergh & Island is a very busy one, at the entrance to a huge commercial area. The many shoppers that cross these streets will be better protected by the cameras, which help prevent red light running,” said PPA Executive Director Vince Fenerty. “With the cameras going live at Broad & Vine, we hope they will help change the behavior of motorists who blaze through this pedestrian-heavy intersection.” The PA General Assembly gave PPA the power to establish a Red Light Camera Program in the city of Philadelphia. In 2005, PPA began equipping intersections with cameras that monitor traffic and automatically photograph vehicles that drive into an intersection after the light has turned red. The first cameras were installed at Grant Avenue, Red Lion Road and Cottman Avenue along the Boulevard. Since the program’s inception, cameras have also been installed at 34th Street & Grays Ferry Avenue, Broad Street & Oregon Avenue, Broad Street & Hunting Park Avenue, 58th & Walnut Streets, Broad Street & South Penn Square, Broad Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard around City Hall, Henry Avenue & Walnut Lane, Rising Sun & Adams
Page 7
Red-Light MARC Wreath Fundraiser Cameras Added
Page 8 The Public Record • December 8, 2011
AFL-CIO Hosts Annual Christmas Party
AFL-CIO President Pat Eiding. 2nd from right, welcomes TALKING national politics were Brian McGlinchey, Pat Eithese Councilmen to annual Christmas Party. With him to ding and Dennis Comer. LABOR leaders sharing moment with Pat Eiding are, from make merry are, from left, Mark Squilla, Curtis Jones, Bill left, Eddie Simpson, Joe Ashdale and Wendell Young III. Green and Bob Henon.
PFT President Jerry Jordan, left, meets up with good friends Phyllis Meloff and Larry Pitt, Esq.
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AFL-CIO’s Nicole Fuller chats with Tommy Blackwell.
CHATTING away at AFL-CIO Christmas Party were Local 98’s Jim Foy and AFT President Ted Kirsch.
PAT MURPHY, left, was joined by John Garrity and AFLCIO's Liz McElroy.
Letter Why I Ran
Another Opinion
invincible Republican old guard on its own turf. How scared of him are the Republican Party faithful? While trying to convince me to switch parties and run for Mayor earlier this year, Republican leaders told me I could do anything I wanted – change my registration to Democrat after switching to Republican to get on the ballot, reject Republican policies, badmouth the Republican Governor – except one thing. I was counseled by one party honcho not to endorse Al Schmidt. Now that he has defeated an incumbent Republican who held office since 1996 and won election as one of three City Commissioners, Al will take office in January. It is expected Al and Democratic reformer, unendorsed Stephanie Singer, will provide competent leadership. Could the Philadelphia Democratic donkey become an endangered species? Maybe not tomorrow; but remember, the dinosaurs had a pretty good run for a while before us mammals had our day. Someday, we might just find out Schmidt happens.
Democrats Endangered? by Brett Mandel Democrats have ruled Philadelphia pretty much unopposed for 60 years, but the Republicans have finally elected a promising young leader who might just be a sign of things to come. Unless we Democrats take note and take action, we may find ourselves out of power and out of luck. Sound unlikely? Before Democrats took over in 1951, the Grand Old Party had ruled Philadelphia for much of the previous century. They failed to see the threat to their power and continued business as usual until it was too late for them. We Democrats would be wise to learn from their mistakes. In 2009, I ran for City Controller in the Democratic Primary. As part of the process, I spoke before a panel of Party officials to ask for their endorsement. I knew my reform positions would make me a less-than-attractive candidate for the Party insiders. Still, I made my best pitch.
“You have nothing to fear from me,” I told them, explaining my embrace of the philosophy and principles of the party of Jefferson and Jackson. But I was not a threat to Philadelphia Democrats, I told them. The real threat to continued Democratic hegemony was the Republican candidate for Controller – Al Schmidt. Al Schmidt is a bright and thoughtful PhD holder who worked for the US Government Accountability Office in Washington. He has set down roots here and he is not interested in perpetuating the sorry state of so much in Philadelphia. Al is not interested in begging for patronage scraps from the Democrat-controlled table or bartering for contracts for his donors. He wants what a lot of us Philadelphians want – change. Al led a revolt for control of the Philadelphia Republican Party and in winning election as City Commissioner last month, he defeated the once-
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
In my second campaign for Philadelphia’s 8th Dist. Council seat that just concluded Our editorial cartoonist Ron Williams Taylor, better with my loss, I ran because I known as RT by his fans, says it most eloquently in his pen care and because I believe my as to what changes have been effected by the Occupiers. experience as a lawyer, educaThough they believe they created an awareness of the fi- tor, and small businessperson nancial division separating the 1% from the 99%, they have would enable me to be an efnot convinced the bulk of the 99% the American dream is no fective Council Member. Eighty-one percent of longer an attainable goal. While over 8% of them are unemPhiladelphia’s registered votployed, still 92% are working, though harder, and moving ers didn’t vote this election day toward their goals for themselves and their families. and 79% didn’t vote in the Our columnist Denise Clay takes a bit of a preacher’s May Democratic primary. I stance on behalf of the neediest individuals and families believe a true democracy is the among the 99% as she castigates this weekend’s Pennsylva- means by which the public nia Society gathering at the venerable Waldorf Astoria in good can be best realized. I beNew York City. lieve the present, extreme disWe do not share her sentiment such events should be engagement of our populace eliminated, with the money that would have been spent from the democratic process going to feed the poor and needy. In this real world, it just damages our ability to tackle wouldn’t happen. But we trust the Pennsylvania Society will the crises of unemployment, poverty, violence, crime and give serious consideration to relocating to any of the conenvironmental degradation. vention cities in Pennsylvania, since the money being spent To those who have shared in New York would be better appreciated by this state’s my beliefs sufficiently to vote governance. for me, volunteer on or conIn any event, the actions of the aforementioned Occu- tribute to my campaign, I expiers -- and political leaders -- do urge on us the need to tend my heartfelt thanks. Brian Rudnick share what we can with those less fortunate than us.
Mark Your Calendar Dec. 8- State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas hosts Weatherization & Energy Forum at Temple’s Dentistry Student Faculty Ctr., 3340 N. Broad St. (Broad & Ontario), 6-8 p.m. For info Natalie Davis (215) 560-3261. Dec. 14- Jeff & Sandy Brown invite you to Re-Grand Opening of their ShopRite of Cheltenham and Einstein FastCare Clinic, 2385 Cheltenham Ave., 11
a.m. sharp. Specialty offerings. Dec. 15- Christmas Celebration in 6300 block Germantown Ave., 6-7 p.m. Corporate and community donations welcome! For more info, to make a donation, A. Neal (215) 438-1768 or A. Alexander (215) 844-9345. Dec. 15- Join Stephanie Singer for an evening of political comedy at “This Is the Week that Is”, 1812 Productions’ yearly political satire. Tickets, $20, cover cost of theater ticket, plus a donation of any size (from $1 up to the
legal individual maximum of $2,600). For info John Barber (484) 469-0633. Dec. 17- Volunteers needed to help wrap gifts for Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell’s Christmas Holiday Party for Homeless. Join her in City Hall Rm. 401, 9 a.m. Call to sign up (215) 686-3418. Dec. 17- Black Professionals Christmas Party at African American Museum, 7th & Arch Sts., 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $50 includes live music, entertainment. For info Earl Harvey (267) 244-3860.
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Occupiers And Pennsylvania Society
Page 9
Our Opinion ...
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Page 10
Firm Wins Landmark Case While Philadelphia has its own rules that apply to its fiscal situation as a City of the First Class, a Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Court decision last week confirms the legislature’s authority to establish what procedures and remedies are available to a fiscally distressed municipality in Pennsylvania. What brought this about was a majority on Harrisburg’s City Council filed for bankruptcy in October. A number of parties filed
objections to the petition, including two unions representing Harrisburg City employees: AFSCME District Council 90 and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 12, both of which were represented by Willig, Williams & Davidson of Philadelphia. The objections were sustained on Nov. 23 and the petition was dismissed. Judge Mary France, Chief Judge of the Bankruptcy Court of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, issued a formal written opinion on Dec. 5 setting forth Attorneys are both board certified by the American Bankruptcy Certification Board. Chapters 7/13 & Stop foreclosures, creditors harassments, lawsuits, garnishments, and sheriff sales.
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the basis for her earlier decision to dismiss. This decision specifically dealt with the procedures and remedies available to Cities of the Third Class that are fiscally distressed and will directly affect Harrisburg, Chester, Reading, Johnstown, Aliquippa, Duquesne and New Castle, among others. Willig, Williams & Davidson is one of the largest and most-respected union-side labor law firms in the United States. Founded in 1979, its accom-
plished and diverse legal team focuses on representing labor unions, employee benefit funds, individual working people and their families. For the past 30 years, its mission has remained the same – to level the playing field by helping unions and working families navigate a complex and sometimes-intimidating legal system. The firm has offices in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, as well as satellites in Haddonfield, Jenkintown and Media.
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by Michael A. Cibik, Esq. American Bankruptcy Board Certified Question: Will the Chapter 7 trustee take my tax refund? Answer: Whether a tax refund will be taken by the Trustee in a Chapter 7 will depend on several factors. As a general rule, the amount of taxes withheld from your pay is prorated over the entire year. The portion of the tax refund for the time before the bankruptcy filing is property of your bankruptcy estate and is available to be used to pay your unsecured creditors. For example, if you filed on Dec. 1, the withholding from January through November is part of the bankruptcy estate. At the 341 Creditor’s Meeting, the Trustee will usually advise the Debtor as to
whether or not he will “administer” the tax refund. This decision will be based on a review of the tax return(s). For a refund to be worthy of administration, the Trustee will consider these factors: (1) Often if a refund is small, the Trustee will not take it simply because it is not cost-effective to distribute it. (2) The funds may be exempt under federal exemptions, state exemptions, or an earned income-tax credit exemption. (3) Prior year(s) unpaid taxes. Taxes are normally a priority debt. If the refund is going to pay past-due taxes, then the trustee will not take it, since the priority debt must be paid before an unsecured debt is paid. The easiest way to avoid having to give up a tax refund is to file the return, receive the money and spend it before the bankruptcy is filed.
TO: “Boo” A Petition has been filed asking the court to put an end to all rights you have to your child Baby Girl White who was born on 9/20/11, at Hospital of University of PA, Philadelphia, PA as well as your rights K.W. has to Baby boy White. The court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child. That hearing will be held on December 29, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. at Court Room 14, One Montgomery Plaza, Orphan’s Court Division, Swede Street, Norristown, PA 19404 before Judge Ott. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child as well as the rights of K.W. to that child may be ended by the court without your being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. 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 to find out where you can get legal help. An important option may be available to you under Act 101 of PA Law that allows for and enforceable voluntary agreement for continuing contact following an adoption between an adoptive parent, a child, a birth parent and/or a birth relative of the child, if all parties agree and the voluntary agreement is approved by the court. The agreement must be signed and approved by the court to be legally binding. You are also warned that if you fail to file either an acknowledgment of paternity pursuant to 23 Pa. C.S.A. Section 2503 (d) relating to acknowledgment and claim of paternity, and fail to either appear at a hearing to object to the termination of your rights or file a written objection to such termination with the court prior to the hearing, your rights may be terminated under Pa. C.S.A. 2503(d) or 2504 (c) of the Adoption Act. Lawyer Referral and Information Service 100 West Airy Street, P.O. Box 268, Norristown, PA 19404 (610) 279-LAW1
managing partner, participated in the event which garnered $112,000 for Child Advocates’ Project for Medically Needy Children initiative. “As a Child Advocate and member of the Board of Directors, it is my continued privilege to support Child Advocates,” said Tanner. “Our firm is committed to providing legal support to the com-
munity. We commend Child Advocates for its tireless efforts in providing legal assistance and social service advocacy for abused and neglected children in Philadelphia.” Child Advocates is the country’s oldest and largest pro bono legal and social-services agency for abused and neglected children. It teams staff social workers with spe-
cially trained volunteer lawyers to secure necessary medical treatment, special education, rehabilitation services, and whenever possible permanent nurturing homes for cases involving children with serious or chronic medical needs. Since its founding in 1977, Child Advocates has trained more than 3,500 attorneys who contribute pro bono services valued at more than
Zarwin Baum Fights Hunger LAST FRIDAY, Zarwin, Baum, DeVito, Kaplan, Schaer, Toddy, PC joined Philabundance, region’s largest hunger-relief organization, for an afternoon of sorting and packaging food for families in need. Among them were Alan Casnoff, left, chairman of Philabundance and of-counsel for Zarwin Baum; and Norman Zarwin, right. Zarwin Baum has provided continued support to Philabundance over the years.
law. Act 101 of 2010 allows for an enforceable voluntary agreement for continuing contact after adoption between an adoptive parent, a child, a birth parent and/or a birth relative of the child, if all parties agree and the voluntary agreement is approved by the court. The agreement must be signed and approved by the court to be legally binding. For more information, please contact Law Offices of Deborah E. Spivack, Attorney for Petitioner Adoptions from the Heart Adoption, P.O. Box 56182, Philadelphia, PA 19130. 215-763-5550
To: Jose Alves Da Rocha Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: COMPLAINT FOR NEGLIGENCE 1. At approximately 8:41 pm., on the 15th day July 2009, an infant child, standing on a sidewalk on Unruh Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was struck by a 2003 GMC SUV driven by Jose Alves Da Rocha. Defendant struck the infant child and then fled the scene. 2. And solely by reason of the carelessness, recklessness, and negligence of Defendant, it is a direct cause and indirect cause thereof an infant child was injured. Plaintiff received and will receive considerable medical attention for his injuries and that he will incur considerable bills for medical care and attention, he has experienced great pain and mental anguish. 3. Plaintiff is seeking to recover judgment against Defendant in an amount in excess of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for bodily injuries; in as yet an undetermined amount in excess of $10,000 for past, present, and future medical care and for past, present, and future pain and suffering; as well as the costs and expenses of this action, to include reasonable attorney’s fees from Defendant. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than February 1st, 2012, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. This the 30th day of November 2011. ____________________________________ Frederick M. Dodge II NCSB#24079 Attorney for Plaintiff 615 Sunset Avenue Asheboro, North Carolina 27203 Off 336.625.0791 Fax 336.625.0891
sonal injury, class action, and other complex civil litigation. Clients include victims of medical malpractice, defective products, unsafe workplaces, motor-vehicle accidents, legal malpractice and insurer misconduct.
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TO: Francisco Alamo, Jr. A Petition has been filed asking the court to put an end to all rights you have to your child Baby Boy Crowell who was born on 10/12/11, at Hospital of University of PA, Philadelphia, PA as well as your rights R.S. has to Baby boy White. The court has set a hearing to consider ending your rights to your child. That hearing will be held on December 29, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. at Court Room 14, One Montgomery Plaza, Orphan’s Court Division, Swede Street, Norristown, PA 19404 before Judge Ott. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child as well as the rights of R.C. to that child may be ended by the court without your being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. 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 to find out where you can get legal help. An important option may be available to you under Act 101 of PA Law that allows for and enforceable voluntary agreement for continuing contact following an adoption between an adoptive parent, a child, a birth parent and/or a birth relative of the child, if all parties agree and the voluntary agreement is approved by the court. The agreement must be signed and approved by the court to be legally binding. You are also warned that if you fail to file either an acknowledgment of paternity pursuant to 23 Pa. C.S.A. Section 2503 (d) relating to acknowledgment and claim of paternity, and fail to either appear at a hearing to object to the termination of your rights or file a written objection to such termination with the court prior to the hearing, your rights may be terminated under Pa. C.S.A. 2503(d) or 2504 (c) of the Adoption Act. Lawyer Referral and Information Service 100 West Airy Street, P.O. Box 268, Norristown, PA 19404 (610) 279-LAW1
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In re: Adoption of Baby Boy B, a minor, (DOB: 7/31//2011), No. 2011-2251 in the Orphans' Court Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. To: Unknown Birthfather. A Petition has been filed asking the Court to put an end to all rights you have to your child, Baby Boy Doe. Baby Boy Doe was born 7/31/2011 at Holy Redeemer Hospital in Meadowbrook, PA. The Court has set a hearing to consider ending rights to your child. That hearing will be held in the Courtroom No. 6, Third Floor, Lancaster County Courthouse, 50 North Duke Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania on December 21, 2011 at 3 p.m. before the Honorable Jay. J. Hoberg. Your presence is required at the hearing. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child may be ended by the Court without your being present. You have a right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. 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 to find out where you can get legal help. COURT ADMINISTRATOR'S OFFICE, Lancaster County Courthouse 50 North Duke Street P.O. Box 83480 Lancaster, PA 17608, 717-299-8041. In addition, please be advised that Pennsylvania
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE RANDOLPH COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO: 11 CVS 2380 JASMINE R. CLARK, ) AS PARENT OF AN INFANT CHILD, ) PLAINTIFF, ) ) NOTICE OF SERVICE OF ) PROCESS BY PUBLICATION VS. ) JOSE ALVES DA ROCHA, ) DEFENDANT. )
$4.7 million annually. Feldman Shepherd Wohlgelernter Tanner Weinstock & Dodig LLP (www.feldmanshepherd.com) has handled cases producing some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Pennsylvania. The firm represents plaintiffs in significant per-
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Philadelphia personal-injury law firm Feldman Shepherd Wohlgelernter Tanner Weinstock Dodig LLP helped Support Center for Child Advocates raise funds for its annual Child Advocates Golf Classic event on Oct. 3. The firm served as a corporate sponsor of the charity function held at the Huntingdon Valley Country Club. Mark Tanner, the firm’s co-
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Feldman Shepherd Supports Child Advocates
Page 12 The Public Record • December 8, 2011 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
Of the various Republicans seeking the party’s nomination to run against BARACK OBAMA next fall only two have any real Philadelphia connections. The obvious one is RICK SANTORUM, former Senator from Pennsylvania. However, he hails from the western part of the state and attended Penn State (center of Pennsylvania), where he was chairman of the College Republicans. The other candidate with Philadelphia connections is former Governor of Utah and Ambassador to China, JOHN HUNTSMAN. Huntsman, his father and two of his daughters attended the University of Pennsylvania. His daughter Abby was chairperson of the Penn College Republicans. Also, if you take a stroll on Penn’s campus, you will encounter the Wharton School’s Huntsman Hall, which was in large part financed from a donation from Huntsman’s father. A number of liberal media outlets, including the New York Times, have stated Huntsman would be the most-formidable candidate against Obama. So why is he so far behind in the polls? One, being praised by liberals is not helpful in a Republican primary. Two, he has not stood out in the debates as his message is not conducive to the 30/90second response times candidates get and his style is statesmanlike, not prone to glib one-line zingers. Third, he has been painted as a moderate, which is also not helpful in a Republican primary. Huntsman is pro-life and pro-2nd Amendment. As the Governor of Utah he cut spending and taxes. He, like RON PAUL, believes we should be scaling back our physical presence in the Middle East. He, like Ron Paul, believes the biggest threat to our national security is our waning eco(Cont. Page 13)
Were it not for the fact I’m currently finding out just how dysfunctional the nation’s health-care system still is, despite the passage of a health-care bill, I would be at this weekend’s meeting of the Pennsylvania Society. In New York. More on how annoyed that makes me later. The Pennsylvania Society gathering has been going on for 113 years and is where the Commonwealth’s mucketymucks and chiefety-chiefs get together and talk turkey. (Actually, they probably talk filet mignon, lobster tails, and Baked Alaska more than turkey, but any group of events that require the kind of costume changes that would make Diana Ross proud would have to feature a spread like that.) It’s also a chance for entrepreneurs, lobbyists and folks looking for federal, State or City contracts to connect with the people that you’ll be attempting to bribe later to get the contract that will allow you to retire. The Marcellus Shale folks are having a party, but then again, Gov. Tom Corbett and the Commonwealth’s Republicans have been very, very, good to them. Even colleges like Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania are having parties as part of the Pennsylvania Society. Nice to see where my Temple grad-school tuition is going. But I digress. Like I said, this is more a filet-mignon than a turkey event. I was going to go because I had one question I was going to ask all the carousers: How do you justify this extravagance at a time when the Commonwealth and the rest of the nation have people going to bed hungry? (Cont. Page 13)
NOW THE Chairman post of the County Commissioners is decided, let’s hope a “reform” wave does not sweep that office. When they let go the political folks from an office – it ends up costing the public more to pay civil-service benefits that exempt workers often do not have. “REFORM” is really YOUR BRAND OF POLITICS VERSUS MINE.... AS FOR THE COMMITTEE OF 70 asking Commissioners to quit ward leadership posts – that is showboating. I remember a Councilwoman telling the “70” leader to try zapping his home County of Montgomery sometimes – instead of poor Philly. ALL THE BALONEY HYPE of the DROP PROGRAM has been adjudicated by the State Supreme Court. The program is difficult to explain to voters, and elected officials quit trying. But the money involved IS the EMPLOYEE’S MONEY. The interest paid is too high for today’s market, so the City is losing money. For years the City made 9% and gave the employee 4%.... “GOLDEN ROSE” MARY FRANCES FOGG of the Redevelopment Authority had a Thanksgiving that saw her son married. Wedding photos are on her FACEBOOK page. The wife’s family is from Blue Bell, Pa. Best wishes!! JANNIE BLACKWELL made a wise move in staying out of the City Council hierarchy. Still it was poor treatment for a person so able, experienced and caring.... JANNIE will assist in the launch of African American Diaspora Marketplace on the 14th & 15th. This is a concept whose time has come. HOLIDAY PARTIES: Sharon Losier (13th), Joe Evers (14th), Shawn Dillon (17th).... JOE COSTIN has evolved as a fine hearing officer in the City Tax Review Board Office. Caring, firm, judicial demeanor is what reports say.
Yo! Here we go again with this thought: Are you still looking for a gift for someone? As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods – merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year could be different. This year, Americans could give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer the excuse that “nothing can be found that is produced by American hands”. It’s time to think outside the box. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese-produced wrapping paper? Everyone gets their hair cut! How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber shop? Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American-owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants – all offering gift certificates. Remember, this isn’t about big national chains – this is about supporting your hometown Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open. How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy? Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would love the services of a local cleaning lady for a day. Could your computer use a tuneup? Find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running. OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local craftspeople spin their own wool and then knit them into scarves. But (Cont. Page 13)
This week we couldn’t help but make this the “Duh” column for public officials that seem smart sometimes, but make decisions that call into question their ability to effectively govern and lead. Let’s begin! A member of the prestigious Philadelphia City Council who doesn’t own a home and rents one uptown should rethink his commentary on the matter, as well as the appearance he is not committed to this City. Already, the rumor for years is he returned to Philly from Atlanta just to run for Council and then Mayor. Lucky doesn’t have a problem with that as long as you meet the residency requirements, but not owning a home with the generous Council salary, plus the six-figure law-firm do-nothing job, looks bad. What gives? This is an affordable city. Makes some wonder if you’ll return South if things don’t go your way. How can elected officials ask others to come here, shop here, invest here and reside here to contribute to our tax base if they’re unwilling to do so? Makes Lucky feel suckered and say, “duh” twice for the two homes he himself has bought here. Ackerman collecting unemployment benefits! You gotta be kidding. Which brain surgeon thought it was okay for her to do so and put it in writing? That’s whom we should all be pointing at and yelling, “Duh!” Then there’s the former State official and member of the Governor’s cabinet, now in charge of the money that educates our kids, not paying his real-estate taxes. He’s probably thinking, “At least I own a home here,” and we’re glad because that generates operating income for the City and, um, schools! No wonder the Commonwealth is broke and the School District is on life support. As budget director for both, the public now has the missing piece of the puzzle. Super Duh!
CHS gets exhausted just watching people exercise, but several VIPs are regulars at the Sporting Club at the Bellevue. Seen working out recently were JUDGES RICARDO JACKSON, JOE WATERS and SANDY MOSS, GOV. ED RENDELL, JOHN DOUGHERTY and STATE SEN. LARRY FARNESE. That was just the Democrats, and all of them were actually sweating with the exception of the affable Rendell, who spent more time chatting than exercising. On the Republican side, VITO CANUSO, WARD LEADER BILL IVERS and political lawyer GEORGE BOCHETTO work out on the machines and the courts, Nautilus and racquetball as opposed to wards and Common Pleas. MAYOR MICHAEL NUTTER once again visited Harrisburg to seek financial assistance for the city. Nutter has surpassed former MAYOR JOHN STREET in visits to the capitol by a large margin. He works hard on relationships with the legislature. The reality of a Republican majority in the Senate and house make the GOP an important partner of the Mayor. However, the Mayor risks the affection of his hometown team, the Philadelphia Democrats, the closer he pulls to the Republicans. It’s a quandary, but that’s why he gets the big bucks. The city with the most Democratic votes does not have a candidate in the race for Auditor General. Gov. Rendell amassed enough votes in Southeastern Pennsylvania alone to win landslide victories. But no one has declared for the big job with the title of General. Likable Central Pennsylvania STATE REP. EUGENE DiPASQUALE is the only declared Democrat. He’s decent and credible, but does not bring the clout that a Philly candidate would. (Cont. Page 13)
Walk The Beat
(Cont. From Page 12) nomic power. Yet no one is accusing Ron Paul of being a moderate! He, unlike Paul or anyone of the other candidates, speaks Mandarin, the language of the one of the fastest-rising economies in the world and the largest holder of US government-issued debt. He, in the opinion of this elephant, has the strongest foreign-policy credentials among those running for President, including the current occupant of the White House. There are two issues on which he is moderate. He believes in civil unions for homosexual couples, not gay
Out & About (Cont. From Page 12) Do you know how many folks the money spent on 100 filet mignons could feed? How about 100 lobster tails? And don’t even get me started on the fact you’re traveling two hours, spending loads of hotel fees, and contributing loads of tax dollars to another state as part of this random display of wretched excess. If
marriage. On the issue of climate change, he believes there is something to be said about the science surrounding the issue. Some people think this is akin to believing in the tooth fairy. But many respected scientists believe that all things being equal, the combustion of hydrocarbons will increase the temperature of our atmosphere. Huntsman is a measured and thoughtful conservative. This elephant believes Huntsman’s moderate style can win Independents and independently minded Democrats in the five-county Philadelphia area. Capturing this constituency is pivotal to a Republican presidential candidate’s carrying Pennsylvania in 2012. you’re going to call yourself the Pennsylvania Society, and are going to engage in this “let them eat cake” behavior, at least do it here where we can get some benefit from it. I would forgive them all if they would transfer their event to either Pittsburgh or Philadelphia. Maybe our friends from Occupy Philly should pay the Pennsylvania Society folks a visit. Now that would be entertainment!
City Hall Sam (Cont. From Page 12) Would JONATHAN SAIDEL get back in the saddle and try again after his disappointing loss for Lieutenant Governor? Maybe not, because there’s no Lieutenant Governor’s mansion included with the AG job. STATE SEN. ANTHONY WILLIAMS previously announced he would run for the AG office, but changed direction and now is focused on a mayoral run. JOE WATKINS, a talking head and school-choice advocate, has said he’s running. But many pundits think the right Philly candidate could mobi-
lize the base of the Southeast and be swept into office. The candidates need to surface soon. Speaking of statewide office, Democrats have been grumbling about SEN. BOB CASEY’S ineffectiveness in party-building. They feel that he has not used his immense name recognition and credibility to help the State Party raise money and become more organized. He is unlikely to take on the task now, as he will be focused don his own reelection. That task became even easier when powerful STATE SEN. DOMINIC PILEGGI opted out of the race for the Republican US Senate nomination.
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Waffleman (Cont. From Page 12) get 10,000 foreign-made lights for the house? When you buy a five-dollar string of lights, about 50 cents stays in the community. You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets and seeing our hardearned wages go outside the
Elephant Corner
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(Cont. From Page 12) THE TOP HOLIDAY HELPERS ARE EMERGING to include the Hibernian Hunger Project of the AOH. Drop off your food contributions at Shamrock Foods, 2251 Frayley Street (off State Road). THANKS TO BOB GESSLERfor the noble effort. The other drive for a happy Christmas for the needy is John DOC’S LOCAL 98 Turkeys and Toys Drive. They are everywhere. AFL-CIO President Pat EIDING really deserved the Dennis Clark Solas Award given today. His concern for new citizens is well known. Pat began his career as an altar boy.... BOB BRADY, CHAKA FATTAH AND
ALLYSON SCHWARTZ voted “No” on HR 3094, an anti-labor GOP Bill. It passed the House, but will have a tough ride in the Senate. When my “check engine” light went on on I-95, I pulled off and took city streets home. If I broke down, AAA would tow the car. On I-95 and the Schuylkill, only the PARKING AUTHORITY can tow you – and then to their lot where you need to get another tow truck to take you to a mechanic. I remembered the tears of a senior woman who paid $250 for the tow, and $30 for 6 hours of storage ALL FROM HER SOCIAL SECURITY CHECK. Ripoff? Is I-95 too expensive to drive on? Hey Occupy Philly, 30th & Market looks like a good location. country. Christmas is about caring about us, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine. This should be the new American Christmas tradition.
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Page 14 The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Waters Welcomes Fed Probe Of Pa. Prisons State Rep. Ronald G. Waters (D-W. Phila.) welcomes the announcement by the Justice Dept. it is launching civil investigations into conditions at two Western Pennsylvania State correctional institutions. Waters, the chairman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, said such action should have come years ago, but he sees the latest development as a way to turn Pennsylvania’s correctional institutions from hellhole warehouses for the convicted into safer and more-effective facilities. “For years, I have been receiving complaints from incarcerated individuals about their treatment while under the care of the State,” Waters said. “With few exceptions, our facilities, rather than being ‘correctional,’ actually harden inmates through brutality and neglect and do very little to correct young inmates, who actually learn more about getting deeper into criminal behavior. Serving time in a correctional institution is not meant to be a pleasant experience, but neither is it supposed to be a free-for-all of prisoner-onprisoner or officer-onprisoner violence and sexual assault.” In September, an SCI
Pittsburgh corrections officer was charged with 92 counts of sexually and physically abusing inmates under his control. He and seven other corrections officers also were named recently in a federal lawsuit regarding the abuse of inmates. The Justice investigation will include the Pittsburgh lock-up and SCI Cresson in Cambria Co. It will examine whether officers had systems for targeting prisoners for violence and abuse based on race, sexual orientation and other factors. Cresson also will be scrutinized for alleged inadequate mental-health care for inmates with mental illness, whether they were adequately protected from harm, or if they were subjected to excessive isolation. “I would hope that as this federal investigation moves forward, that our State Dept. of Corrections will move promptly to address the violence in our institutions statewide,” Waters said. “They should especially be able to better control and monitor the officers that staff the facilities.” Waters said the federal investigation will include information from records, officers, prisoners, inmate family mem-
STATE Rep. Cherelle Parker joins Pastor Alyn E. Waller, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church; Enon Tabernacle’s Drum Line Ministry; Phila. Military Academy’s Color Guard; Rev. Ethelyn Taylor, Oxford Presbyterian Church; and Pastor Mattie Pickney, Agape Baptist Church, at tree-lighting ceremony. bers and inmate advocates. “I believe the probe will determine it has just discovered the tip of an iceberg — that there is so much more to be investigated at SCI facilities statewide,” Waters added. The Justice Dept. emphasized that the civil investigation is separate from any criminal probe involving actions at the Pittsburgh and Cresson facilities. Community members who wish to provide information for the investigation can contact the Dept. of Justice at pennsylvaniaprisons.community@usdoj.gov. Cherelle Parker Lights Up Wadsworth Ave. State Rep. Cherelle L. Parker (D_Northwest) reports her holiday lighting ceremony was “amazing and inspiring” and “I am so thankful to my staff and the volunteers who helped make the evening a success.” Parker sponsored her third annual neighborhood lighting
Friday in the 1500 block of Wadsworth Avenue. The evening included free photos with Santa Claus, free books and other giveaways donated by local businesses and several museums, including the National Constitution Center, the Academy of Natural Science and the Franklin Institute. “It was heartwarming to see more than 300 people, including many families with children, enjoy the events along the historic Wadsworth Avenue commercial corridor,” Parker said. “The caroling and warm beverages made the festive quality even more enjoyable. “The entertainment was particularly amazing,” Parker said. “As a former member, I was especially proud of the Oak Lane Wildcat Cheerleaders but I am grateful to all those who volunteered their time and talents to celebrate the beautification of our community.” Entertainment also was
provided by the Jenks MS Choir, the Enon Tabernacle’s Drum Line and Ordered Step Ministries, the Philadelphia Military Academy’s Color Guard, the Agape Baptist Church’s Children Community Choir, the Musical Ensemble from Eva Donaldson’s School of Music, the John McCloskey ES Choir, Lankenau HS’s Spirit Club and the Wadsworth Avenue Carolers. On another holiday-related note, Parker and Kitchen of Love will distribute food baskets to seniors and low-income families tonight from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a. m. at the rear of her constituent service office, 1536 E. Wadsworth Avenue. McGeehan: Stop Ackerman Checks State Rep. Michael McGeehan (D-Northeast) has asked Secretary Julia K. Hearthway of the Dept. of Labor & Industry to deny unemployment-compensation benefits to former Philadelphia School District Superintendent Arlene Ackerman. McGeehan charged Ackerman’s compensation request is “stunningly arrogant and outof-touch” considering she voluntarily accepted a buyout package of $905,000 offered by Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter. “Unemployment compensation is a safety net for working people who have lost their job and need assistance affording basic needs like food and shelter for themselves and their families,” said McGeehan. “Since your department has the ultimate authority to determine ones eligibility for unemployment compensation, I am requesting you use the
powers of your office to intercede directly and disqualify the former superintendent’s application under Section 402B of the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Law.” That section of the law prohibits compensation for any week in which the unemployment is voluntary except under extreme circumstances. “Obviously, this does not apply to Ms. Ackerman’s situation,” McGeehan concluded. Hughes, Tartaglione Laud Stetson School State Sens. Christine Tartaglione (D-Kensington) and Vince Hughes (D-W. Phila.) toured Stetson MS to get a first-hand look at the school’s remarkable turnaround. “It is an honor to be here today to meet with the faculty, students, and parents of this promising school. Stetson Middle School is a successful model of education reform,” Hughes said. “After years of underachievement, Stetson is now a school with a promising academic future for all students.” Stetson, which has a largely Hispanic student body, was one of Philadelphia’s lowest-performing schools, until it was taken over by Aspira of Pennsylvania, a Hispanic advocacy group. Since the takeover, the school has produced academic gains, while reducing violence and disruptive behavior. “In a changing world economy, education becomes more valuable every day,” Tartaglione said. “The success at Stetson proves that (Cont. Page 16)
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Labor And DHS Working Together
APPEARING in our Nov. 23 issue, this picture inadvertently omitted efforts of Yvonne Farell and DSHS who supplied Local 1637 members with needy families for Union’s Thanksgiving Turkey giveaway. Yvonne, 3rd from left, was not identified. Keep up excellent work, Ms. Farrell! Sorry for the omission.
STATE SENS. Christine Tartaglione and Vincent Hughes toured Stetson MS to get a first-hand look at school’s remarkable turnaround. Students show lawmakers how iPads help in Photo by McGlasson Photography the classroom.
STETSON 8TH-GRADER Lisa Acevado and 7th-grader Victor Dixon show State Sen. Tina Tartaglione some of the work displayed along walls at school during Senator’s visit. Photo by McGlasson Photography
‘malware’ into the credit- and debit-card processing systems we use in our stores. The malware collected card information as it was processed, stored it temporarily, and then sent it to a computer server in Russia. “We learned on Nov. 9 some our customers had experienced credit-card fraud after they used their cards at our one of our stores. We hired Trustwave, a leading computer forensic firm, on Nov. 10 to investigate. By Nov. 18, Trustwave investigators had identified the malware and blocked the mechanisms they discovered by which the thieves exported card information from the card-processing system. “At this time, Trustwave investigators continue their investigation and they will take any necessary additional steps to eliminate the threat caused by the malware. Trustwave and our Information Technology staff reviewed the safeguards we use to protect card information and made appropriate changes to improve the security measures we use to
protect card information. “We notified all the major card brands and provided information about potentially compromised accounts. The card brands, in turn, notified card-issuing financial institutions who can take steps to protect cardholders through enhanced fraud monitoring or by reissuing cards.” Jetro has advised its clients, “To protect yourself from possible fraudulent charges, you should contact officials at your card issuer immediately by calling the toll-free number on the back of your card or on your monthly statement, tell them you have received this letter, and ask them to cancel and reissue the card. You should also closely review the statements for any credit or debit card you used at one of our stores between Sep. 21 and Nov. 18, 2011. You should immediately notify the bank or financial institution that maintains the card account of any unauthorized charges. Most banks or financial institutions will reimburse your account for any fraudulent charges.”
Cites Vacant Schools
City Controller Alan Butkovitz finds eight vacant school buildings are detrimental to the communities in which they are located. As a result, he is asking the School District to level some and possibly sell others. Targeted are the former Roberto Clemente MS, the Alcorn Annex, Beeber Wynnefield, Rudolph Walton, Simon Muhr, Goerge W. Childs, Elizabeth Gillespie and Ada Lewis schools. Of the eight, Bukovitz said,“We found three with structures in very poor condition and we recommend they be tightly secured and demolished immediately.” All the schools had much in common. They were filled withdrug paraphernalia and open to easy access, with trash strewn in the classrooms and stairways and around the schools.
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
A flurry of Philadelphia credit- and debit-card holders were being notified the past month their cards had been hacked and they would be receiving new cards. The reason is Russian hackers have stolen credit and debit card information from the card-processing system used in Jetro stores, the wholesale food distributors located here in Philadelphia. According to a letter sent by Jetro CEO Stanley Fleishman to customers, “The thieves obtained the card information as it was being processed. You are receiving this letter because we believe your credit- or debit-card information was stolen. This letter explains actions we have taken in response to the theft and describes some actions you can take to protect yourself against fraud. “Computer forensic investigators we hired to investigate the theft currently believe that the thieves obtained the names of cardholders, credit- or debit-card numbers, card expiration dates, and verification codes that were on the magnetic stripes of credit and debit cards used at our stores from Sep. 21 through Nov. 18, 2011.” Jetro then went on to explain how they stole card information. “The investigators determined that the thieves inserted malicious software or
Page 15
Russian Hackers Steal Jetro Credit Controller
CITY CONTROLLER Alan Butkovitz joins Mark McKee, director of fraud and special investigations, with details of research study of eight abandoned school buiildings. Butkovitz wants School District to begin demolition of buildings because each is a “catastrophy waiting to happen.” Photo by McGlasson Photography
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Page 16 The Public Record • December 8, 2011 www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
(Cont. From Page 14) with parents, teachers, and administrators working together to help students the future can be bright for any student who wants to achieve.” Hughes was instrumental, along with Success Schools COO Robert Lysek, in securing 50 iPads for Stetson students and 10 for teachers and administrators. The students use the iPads for remedial math and writing support. Teachers use them to support and facilitate the lessons. During the tour, Hughes and Tartaglione were updated by student leaders on how Stetson was turned around through targeted education reforms. Many once-disruptive students are now classroom leaders, excelling both academically and socially. The school has seen gains in PSSA scores as well. The Parent and President School Advisory Council also spoke with the senators about what a great learning environment the school has become. Evans Praises Fresh Food Financing State Rep. Dwight Evans (D-N. Phila.) has commended the congressional bipartisan coalition that recommended the expansion of the Health Food Financing Initiative, to
increase access to healthy foods in underserved communities. The national initiative is based on the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative pioneered by Evans in 2004. “My main objectives have been to reduce the high incidence of diet-related diseases by providing healthy food to underserved areas, to stimulate the investment of private capital in local neighborhoods, and to create living wage jobs,” Evans said. The national program will invest $125 million to target the number of low-income Americans living without adequate access to healthy food. The project calls for critical seed money to establish new and expand existing healthyfood financing partnerships in communities across the country. “This undertaking is similar to what we have been doing in Pennsylvania,” Evans said. “I am proud to see its expansion on the national level.” Evans has earned a national reputation for his work to deliver quality food to underserved communities. The FFFI has been twice cited by Harvard University’s
PREVENTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE was mission of State Sen. Shirley Kitchen’s annual “Mothers & Daughters Day,” a free informational event to raise awareness. Held in conjunction with Gwendolyn West-Sutton of Nguza Saba Project and Lady-G Enterprises, Senator, center, treated women and teenage daughters to event Saturday at Honickman Learning Center in N. Phila. Participants learned about options and resources for women and benefited from speakers, discussion groups, giveaways, prizes, breakfast and lunch. Kitchen said event aimed to help “women and young ladies live in a peaceful and loving environment.”
Kennedy School of Government as one of the top publicpolicy initiatives in the country. Through the program, public and private money is used to expand or build grocery stores in urban and rural communities. More than 85 small, mid-size, and full-scale stores have been developed in Pennsylvania through the program. Evans has been invited to speak about the initiative at various conferences around the country and several states are now working to duplicate the program. In July, First Lady Michelle Obama spoke at a news conference at the White House and thanked Evans for his efforts to ensure access to fresh, healthy, affordable food. Brownlee Disses Bill On Alien Hiring State Rep. Michelle Brownlee (D-N. Phila.) said the House passed legislation she voted against would create a harsh new penalty with no leeway for licensed professionals of the Commonwealth. Brownlee said the bill (HB 439), creating the Professional Licensees Illegal Employment Act, would implement an extreme punishment for businesses by revoking their license permanently if found guilty of hiring undocumented immigrants. The bill would not only enable discrimination practices, it also fails to provide oversight support for investigatio n, enforcement and remedies to the licensing bodies. “I strongly oppose this legislation. It disregards the time and resources that professionals have devoted to become who they are today,” Brownlee said. “It also leaves those employed by licensed professionals at risk of losing their jobs. In this tough economy, I feel it is wrong to implement such a drastic penalty that has the potential to devastate many people and their financial security because of even one transgression.” Brownlee said the measure does not offer any safeguards against the likely increase in discrimination against minorities. “I fear racial profiling will become rampant,” Brownlee said. “The bill refers to un-
documented workers as ‘aliens.’ I find this term derogatory and unnecessary to the point the regulation attempts to make.” O’Brien Bills Outlaw Gamblers Leaving Children In Cars The State House has unanimously passed legislation authored by State Rep. Mike O’Brien (D-Kensington) designed to reduce the incidences of children being left in cars while their parents or guardians gamble at Pennsylvania casinos. O’Brien said he authored the legislation (HBs 120 and 121) in response to the growing number of incidences of children being left unattended in casino parking lots. He pointed to at least 10 documented instances of such behavior since February 2010 at the Parx Casino in Bensalem alone. Earlier this fall, the grandparents of three children ages 12, 7 and 2 left their grandchildren in a vehicle at the SugarHouse casino in Philadelphia while they went inside. “Compulsive gamblers who leave common sense behind so they can nurse their addiction, and even those who might think their children are old enough or responsible enough to handle being left alone, need to be sent a clear and direct message that this behavior will not be tolerated,” O’Brien said. “These incidents represent a direct threat to the safety, health and welfare of young children, and each instance can easily result in tragedy. “The Pennsylvania legislature authorized casino gambling in the state, and I believe it is an obligation of this legislature to send a strong message that our children come first.” A child of a compulsive gambler, O’Brien said he knows firsthand what children can go through when a parent puts the need to gamble ahead of the welfare of his children. “My father was a compulsive gambler,” O’Brien said. “I know the terror and anxiety a child can feel when left alone while his dad or mom gambles. My legislation is about protecting those children.” O’Brien’s first bill (HB 120) would prohibit any driver
Main Line Chamber Hosts Lieut. Gov. Jim Cawley
WELCOMING Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley to Main Line Chamber of Commerce breakfast seminar at Harcum College are, from left, Harcum’s Dr. Edward D’Alessio; Cawley; Jill Michal, president of United Way; Stephen DiOrio, chairman of MLCC; and Bernie Dagenais, executive director of MLCC. Event was sponsored by Crozier-Keystone Health Photos by Bonnie Squires Systems. DR. JON JAY DeTEMPLE, president of Harcum College, greets MLCC members who came to seminar. He shared news of Harcum’s student-body growth to current 1500. KYW’S TONY ROMEO interviewed Lt. Governor, exploring major CorbettCawley initiatives, before taking questions from audience. Cawley talked about Marcellus Shale “fee” legislation, as well as tuition vouchers. He was concerned that even though Marcellus Shale Commission, which he chaired, came up with 96 recommendations, covering environmental and other concerns, all attention has been focused on one recommendation, on the fee. of a vehicle from leaving a child younger than 14 unattended in the vehicle on property owned, leased or controlled by a licensed gaming facility. People who violate the law would be ejected from the facility and charged with a third-degree misdemeanor for the first offense and second-degree misdemeanor for subsequent convictions. Also under the bill, gaming facilities that fail to report violations of unattended children would be subjected to fines of no less than $75,000 or more than $150,000 for a first offense, and no less than $150,000 or more than $300,000 for subsequent offenses. “Casinos want to be good and responsible neigh-
bors,” O’Brien said. “But we also must recognize that looking the other way might be easier for them, financially or otherwise. It is imperative to establish a strong disincentive for such actions.” The companion bill (HB 121) would set up a mechanism to warn individuals of the consequences of leaving their children unattended in a vehicle. Licensed gaming facilities would be required to conspicuously post warning signs regarding the penalties for leaving a child unattended in their parking area. Facilities would be fined $1,000 a day for the days signs are not posted. Both bills now move to the Senate for consideration.
CITY OF PHILADELPHIA ADVERTISEMENT The City of Philadelphia, Philadelphia International Airport, is requesting PROPOSALS for “ON CALL AIRPORT PLANNING CONSULTANT”. All proposals are to be submitted to www.phila.gov/contracts/ by 5pm DECEMBER 30, 2011 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”) or request the RFP by email to rfp@phl.org .
HILLARY’S VISIT 1900 South Broad St., 19145 Part 52/60
FEBRUARY, 1993: Within a month after winning the title, “FIRST LADY,” Hillary Clinton came to the St. Agnes Medical Center during the early fact-finding phase of President Clinton’s “Health Care Reform” it project.
—Nicola Argentina (c) 2011 “You’ve Got a Friend in Pennsylvania”
vegetarian restaurant, but it is in keeping with Landau’s mission to prove vegetarian cuisine can be every bit as creative, elegant and satisfying (and healthier) as meat-centric food — or as Rich calls it, “that big hunk of protein in the center of the plate.” (The 116-year-old building was designed by Philadelphia’s most famous architect, Frank Furness, and was originally a club for Princeton University graduates.) Vedge has a fully stocked bar with cocktails employing house-made syrups and bitters, six craft beers on draft and boutique wines. The plush surroundings also feature four functional fireplaces, an elevator for wheelchair access, a cocktail lounge and two 20-plus seat dining rooms. There is a vegetable bar — similar to a sushi bar — which offers raw items, pickles, olives and “vegetable charcuterie.” It is surrounded by jars of housemade pickles, preserves and potted herb plants. “It’s going to look like Martha Stewart on crack in here,” Landau said just before they opened. Instead of the traditional ap-
Len Lear petizer-entree-dessert format which they followed at Horizons, Vedge features a smallplate menu ($8 to $16) which was not yet up on their website
2400 E. Somerset Street Philadelphia, PA 19134
when I wrote this (Nov. 25), but Kate and Rich said it includes gold lentils, meatless braciole with smoked eggplant and cauliflower, salsa rustica, hearts of palm, portobello carpaccio, garbanzo crêpe, etc., in ways that you have certainly never seen or tasted before. Landau and Jacoby have also written two cookbooks in recent years, Horizons: New Vegan Cuisine and Horizons: The Cookbook: Gourmet Meatless Cuisine, which are both available at Vedge. For more information, call (215) 3207500 or visit the website at www.vedgerestaurant.com.
Phone: 215-423-2223 Fax: 215-423-5937
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FIRST LADY’S HAIRSTYLES: Between January 1993 through November 1994, Mrs. Clinton’s “crowning glories” went through many changes, as seen above. As Presidentelect Reagan’s voice vibrated inside the Academy of Music on November 17, 1980 before the nation’s Republican governors, days before his first Inauguration, the First Lady honored the “Friend in Pennsylvania” and framer of today’s Tea Party Movement by her symbolic visit to South Philadelphia days after her husband’s first of two Inaugurations.
up with, like almost everyone else, and use it to translate vegetarian cuisine to a broader audience. I want to prove to meat-eaters that my food can be just as tasty and interesting and complex as the meat dishes they are used to, and of course, more healthy for them as well.” I think that every time we went to Horizons Cafe, every table was occupied, and Rich always prided himself on the fact that many, if not most, of those customers were not vegetarians. After a decade of success in the burbs, Rich and Kate, a former customer who wound up working on the line beside Landau and preparing vegetarian desserts, moved to 7th & South Streets in 2006, where they opened Horizons, which had two floors of dining. Again they proved carnivores would try out a vegetarian restaurant with a beautiful setting, sophisticated and innovative menu, extensive list of wines and cocktails, knowledgeable servers, etc. The Inquirer’s Craig LaBan gave Horizons “three bells” and VegNews magazine named Horizons its “Restaurant of the Year.” Philadelphia magazine included it in its “Top 50 Restaurants in the Delaware Valley;” the New York Times called it “one of Philadelphia’s best new restaurants,” and Rich and Kate became the first vegetarian restaurateurs ever to be invited to prepare a dinner at the ultra-exclusive James Beard House in New York City, a place whose mission is to celebrate and honor the best chefs in the country. But when their five-year lease was up, Rich and Kate, who are now married with a four-year-old son, Rio (who is also a vegetarian), moved out of Horizons in July of this year and last month opened Vedge at 1221 Locust Street in Washington Square West, which for two decades had housed an upscale French restaurant, Deux Cheminées. Rich and Kate’s business partners in this huge enterprise are Larry Krasner and Common Pleas Court Judge Lisa Rau, who officiated at the marriage of Landau and Jacoby in 2004. The spectacularly beautiful, historically certified building with lots of stained glass is certainly not the kind of place where you’d expect to find a
The Public Record • December 8, 2011
by Len Lear Many people have the idea of a vegetarian restaurant as a place with the sophistication of The Flintstones, sawdust on the floor, tables and chairs that look as if they were purchased from the Salvation Army, hippie customers, food that tastes like mush or paste, certainly no liquor license, scrawny owners who look as if they could use a Big Mac or two, etc.
Well, Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby, Philly natives, have been on a mission to change that picture, to prepare vegetarian dishes for non-vegetarians. In 1994, Landau opened Horizons Cafe on a small street about a block away from the Willow Grove Mall. I remember enjoying dinners there is the ’90s and marveling at how diverse and sophisticated Rich’s vegetarian dishes were. “My mission,” he told me at the time, “is to take the carnivore palate that I grew
Page 17
Classy vegetarian dining at just-opened Vedge
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The Public Record • December 8, 2011
Page 18
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The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 8, 2011
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Say You Saw It In The PUBLIC RECORD
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www.phillyrecord.com • 215-755-2000
The South Philadelphia Public Record • December 8, 2011
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